Reduce Anxiety Levels Research Articles

Effects of Predictive Nursing Process on Elderly Patients with Total Hip Arthroplasty.

Elderly individuals represent a significant demographic undergoing total hip arthroplasty, with distinct risks and complications. The study aimed to determine whether predictive nursing, guided by risk assessment, could reduce these risks and improve patient outcomes. A total of 191 elderly patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty were included in the study, with 142 patients randomly assigned to either the control or observation groups. The control group received routine care, while the observation group received predictive nursing based on comprehensive risk assessment. Various assessment tools were employed to evaluate risks such as venous thrombosis, pressure injuries, falls, joint dislocation, infections, and psychological factors. The primary outcomes included functional improvement measured by the Harris Hip Score, Activities of Daily Living (ADL), anxiety levels, and patient satisfaction. Our study demonstrated that predictive nursing interventions, guided by comprehensive risk assessment, yielded significant reductions in postoperative complications, particularly deep vein thrombosis, in elderly patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty. In addition, patients who received predictive nursing care experienced notable benefits, including shorter hospital stays, heightened satisfaction levels, enhanced hip function, improved ADL scores, and reduced anxiety levels compared with those receiving standard care. The study underscores the substantial benefits of predictive nursing interventions guided by risk assessment in improving outcomes for elderly patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty, highlighting the potential of individualized nursing care to optimize postoperative recovery and enhance patient well-being.

A randomized controlled trial on the impact of a specialized training program on anxiety and perceived pain in infertile women undergoing hysterosalpingography

Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is a minimally invasive procedure that can be painful. This study aimed to examine the impact of a tailored training program on anxiety and perceived pain intensity in infertile women undergoing HSG. This research was a clinical trial involving 86 infertile women who were candidates for HSG and conducted at the radiology department of the Royan Infertility Center in Tehran, Iran, between November 22, 2021, to March 11, 2023.The participants were divided into two groups:43 women in the intervention group and 43 women in the control group. The randomization of the samples was carried out using a random number table. The women in the intervention group received two face-to-face group training sessions. Data were collected using valid questionnaires. Additionally, the heart rate and blood pressure of the participants were recorded. Data analysis showed the training intervention was significantly associated with reducing anxiety levels, perceived pain, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and heart rate in women undergoing HSG (p < 0.05). These findings support the use of structured training interventions to improve the overall experience and outcomes for patients undergoing HSG.Trial Registration Number: IRCT20150905023897N4.

Effect of Combination of Facial Acupuncture Therapy with Lavender Aromatherapy on Reducing Postpartum Maternal Anxiety Levels in Medan Tuntungan District

Following childbirth, moms will undergo emotional fluctuations characterized by mood swings, anxiety, dizziness, and feelings of despair. Impaired maternal understanding of infant care can lead to psychological issues that impact the mother's physical well-being, including disrupted sleep patterns and reduced appetite. Failure to promptly manage anxiety in postpartum mothers can lead to the development of baby blues syndrome and postpartum depression. This study employs a Quasi Experiment design with a pre-posttest not include a control group to quantitatively investigate the impact of combining facial acupressure therapy with lavender aromatherapy on anxiety reduction in postpartum mothers. The investigation was conducted in Medan Tuntungan District, located in Medan City. One hundred postpartum women constituted the sample in this study. The data collection process involved administering treatment (facial acupressure therapy with lavender aromatherapy), followed by observation and interviews conducted using the HARS instrument. The analysis conducted using the Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test revealed a negative ranks value of 94. This indicates that out of the 100 postpartum women who participated in the study, 94 mothers reported a reduction in anxiety levels. The positive rankings index is 0, indicating that none of the 100 postpartum moms who participated in the study reported a rise in anxiety levels. The tie value of 6 indicates that among the 100 postpartum moms who participated in the study, 6 mothers did not show any significant difference in anxiety levels before and after undergoing a combination of Facial Acupressure Therapy with Lavender Aromatherapy. Moreover, it is established that the significance value at this stage of analysis is 0.000 or greater than ? (0.05). Therefore, it can be inferred that there is a significant impact of the combination of Facial Acupressure Therapy with Lavender Aromatherapy on the reduction of anxiety levels in postpartum mothers.

The Effectiveness of Pregnancy Exercise on Anxiety of Primigravida Mothers at The Galang Mother's Love Clinic

Congestion experienced by pregnant women can cause various negative impacts on their mental and physical health. High anxiety often contributes to mental disorders, such as depression, which can disrupt a mother's mood and emotional well-being. In addition, the stress response that arises from anxiety can result in physical problems, such as headaches, sleep disorders, and digestive problems, which ultimately impact the immune system. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of pregnancy exercise in reducing anxiety in primigravida mothers at the Kasih Ibu Galang Clinic. The method used was a quantitative study with a pretest-posttest design, involving 15 respondents who took part in a pregnancy exercise program for six weeks. Anxiety levels were measured before and after the intervention using an anxiety scale. The research results showed that the average anxiety level of respondents before participating in pregnancy exercise was 1.67, while after the intervention it decreased to 1.20. Statistical analysis produced a p-value of 0.029, which indicated a significant reduction in anxiety levels. These findings indicate that pregnancy exercise is effective in reducing anxiety in primigravida mothers, so it is recommended as an intervention to support mental health during pregnancy.

Effectiveness of Finger Hand Relaxation and Progressive Muscle Relaxation Techniques on Anxiety in Pre-Operative Sectio Caesarea Patients

Background: Anxiety is a common thing that occurs in patients who will undergo surgery. The anxiety that occurs in preoperative patients can be felt from the time they are scheduled for surgery until the time of surgery arrives. Anxiety management can be done using pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapy. Purpose: The aim of this research is to analyze the effectiveness of finger grip relaxation techniques and progressive muscle relaxation on anxiety in pre-caesarean section surgery patients in the Kediri Regency Regional General Hospital. Method: This study used a Quasy-experiment With Pretest Posttest to determine the effect of finger grip and progressive muscle relaxation techniques. The sample selection in this study used a purposive sampling technique and a total of 56 patients were obtained who were divided into 2 groups, namely the finger grip intervention group and the progressive muscle intervention group. The pretest and posttest data for each group were then analyzed using the Wilcoxon Test to determine the effect and the Mann-Whitney Test to compare the posttest results of the 2 groups. Results: The results of the study showed that the Wilcoxon test in both intervention groups obtained a p-value &lt; α (0.05), which means that before and after the intervention, both progressive muscle relaxation and finger grip relaxation had an influence on the anxiety level of pre-caesarean section patients. For the results of the Mann-Whitney test, the p-value was 0.063 or p-value &gt; α (0.05), which means there was no significant difference between changes in anxiety whether those given progressive muscle relaxation intervention or finger grip relaxation. Conclusion: Finger grip relaxation techniques and progressive muscle relaxation techniques are both effective in reducing anxiety levels in pre-caesarean section surgery patients. So this non- pharmacological therapy can be an option for patients in dealing with anxiety problems before caesarean section surgery.

Metaverse-based cardiac magnetic resonance simulation to overcome claustrophobia (META-MRI): a feasibility trial

Abstract Background Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (CMR) is crucial for diagnosing and stratifying cardiac disease, but up to 10% of patients face challenges due to claustrophobia. Conventional methods for overcoming claustrophobia have limited success. The metaverse, an immersive 3D environment using virtual and augmented reality, is under investigation for healthcare applications. A metaverse-based VR CMR simulation program was developed to assist patients with claustrophobia, but its clinical effectiveness is unexplored. Methods The META-MRI study involved 450 patients screened, with 32 enrolled. They were randomly assigned to intervention (Metaverse-based simulation + standard care) or control (standard care alone). The Metaverse program used a VR headset within the Aimedis metaverse platform. Training sessions occurred before scheduled CMR exams, with anxiolytic treatment when necessary. Primary endpoints included successful CMR completion, anxiety assessment using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and usability through a questionnaire. Results Patients in the intervention group (n=16) completed Metaverse training successfully. During simulations, anxiety decreased (STAI scores: 73 ± 8 to 51 ± 11, p=0.02). Intervention group completion rate was significantly higher (81%) than the control group (37%) during real CMR exams (p=0.01). Usability scores indicated moderate satisfaction. Discussion The metaverse-based program significantly improved CMR completion rates and reduced anxiety levels in patients with severe claustrophobia compared to standard care alone. Traditional methods for claustrophobia have limitations, making the metaverse a promising tool. Despite promising results, further research is necessary, considering identified usability issues and economic implications. Conclusion This feasibility trial demonstrates the effectiveness of a metaverse-based simulation program in enhancing compliance with CMR exams for patients with severe claustrophobia. The strategy, combined with standard care, led to reduced anxiety and increased CMR completion. Further investigation with larger cohorts is required to validate these findings, addressing usability concerns and assessing the cost-effectiveness of incorporating the metaverse into routine clinical practice.Clinical and demographic characteristics

Leveraging mixed reality in mitraclip implantation: A preliminary case series toward a pilot study

Abstract Introduction The advent of mixed reality (MR) technology, particularly when combined with Hololens 2.0 and specialized software for three-dimensional DICOM image visualization, offers a promising avenue for enhancing the precision and spatial awareness in interventional cardiology procedures. This case series aims to preliminarily evaluate the impact of MR on MitraClip implantation processes, setting a foundation for an ensuing comprehensive pilot study. Methods We conducted a comparative analysis within a case series of four MitraClip implantations, categorizing them into two groups based on the utilization of MR support. We examined procedural efficiency, radiation metrics (SKIA and DAP), and operator stress indicators, including cortisol levels, heart rate variability, QTc interval, and subjective assessments through NASA TLX, STAI Y, and SSQ questionnaires. Results Initial findings from the MR-assisted procedures suggest a notable improvement in procedural efficiency and a reduction in operator stress. Specifically, MR use was associated with shorter procedural times (ranging from 60 to 130 minutes) and lower radiation exposure, with SKIA durations between 15.5 and 40.5 minutes. Moreover, operators in the MR group showed reduced cortisol levels (8.2-9.2 mmol/L), indicating decreased physiological stress. Heart rate variability analysis further supported superior stress management among MR-supported operators. Subjective evaluations reinforced these physiological findings. NASA TLX scores in the MR group (13-20) markedly contrasted with those in the control group (30-45), signifying a significant reduction in perceived workload. SSQ scores remained minimal, implying good MR tolerability, and STAI Y scores (30-35) were lower than those in the control group (40-50), highlighting reduced anxiety levels during MR-assisted procedures. Conclusion This explorative case series lays the groundwork for a forthcoming pilot study, revealing MR's potential to not only streamline MitraClip implantation but also to alleviate operator stress. Both objective and subjective data advocate for expanded research to definitively ascertain MR's benefits in cardiac interventions, promising to refine procedural workflows and enhance patient outcomes. This series acts as a stepping stone towards a larger-scale evaluation that could solidify MR's role in the future of interventional cardiology.Operator's View and Technology PreviewFunction diagram

Effect of cervical traction on cervicogenic headache in patients with cervical radiculopathy: a preliminary randomized controlled trial

BackgroundCervical radiculopathy (CR) is a common condition, often associated with cervicogenic headache (CGH), a secondary headache arising from cervical spine disorders. Mechanical intermittent cervical traction (MICT) is frequently prescribed to treat CR symptoms. The purpose of the study was to make a preliminary estimate of efficacy of adding MICT to conventional rehabilitation on CGH in patients with cervical radiculopathy.MethodsA total of 36 CR patients with CGH were randomly allocated to 3 equally sized groups (A, B and C). The treatment consisted of twelve sessions of conventional rehabilitation (4 weeks) combined with MICT (2 kg for group A, 8 kg for group B and 12 kg for group C). Primary outcomes were CGH intensity (visual analog scale) and frequency (days per week). Secondary outcomes were radicular pain intensity (visual analog scale), cervical range of motion (cervical range of motion instrument), proprioception (cervical range of motion instrument) and muscle strength (MicroFET2 dynamometer), handgrip strength (handheld dynamometer), function (Neck Disability Index), kinesiophobia (Tampa Scale for KInesiophobia), anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depresion questionnaire), and quality of life (World Health Organization Quality of Life). Patients were assessed at baseline, one, three and six months after the beginning of treatment. The post hoc Dunn testing was used to determine which traction load had the better effect on CGH symptoms.ResultsAt one, three and six months follow-ups, Group C exhibited the highest improvement in CGH intensity and frequency compared to the other groups (p = 0.021 and p = 0.023; p = 0.012 and p = 0.01; p = 0.005 and p = 0.005). Both groups C and B showed a significant improvement in radicular pain compared to group A at one month follow-up (p = 0.05).The improvement in group C was significantly better in terms of function (p = 0.049) and anxiety (p = 0.011) at three months and quality of life at six months (Psychological p = 0.046 and Environment p = 0.006).ConclusionsThe blend of conventional rehabilitation alongside 12 kg MICT seems to be efficacious in diminishing both the intensity and frequency of CGH in patients with CR. These advantages appear to last for up to six months following the treatment period, potentially leading to decreased CGH severity and occurrence rates, heightened functionality, reduced anxiety levels, and an overall enhancement in quality of life. These findings are preliminary and require confirmation in larger trials.Trial registrationThe study protocol was retrospectively registered at the Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR202401838955948). Date of registration is 16/01/2024.

RELAX (REducing Levels of AnXiety): a study protocol for a parallel two-arm randomised controlled trial evaluating a web-based early intervention for pregnant women with high levels of repetitive negative thinking to prevent escalating anxiety during pregnancy and after birth

BackgroundPerinatal anxiety is common: up to 40% of pregnant women and new mothers experience high levels of anxiety. Given its prevalence, interventions that are low-intensity, highly accessible and cost-efficient, and target modifiable risk factors for anxiety are needed. Repetitive negative thinking (RNT)—such as worrying about ways things will go wrong in the future or ruminating about past negative events—is a risk factor for the development of anxiety. RNT is maintained by the tendency to generate negative interpretations of ambiguous situations.MethodsA parallel two-arm randomised controlled trial will assess the efficacy of adding interpretation training (RELAX) to usual maternity care. Participants (N = 268) will be randomised to (i) 12 sessions of online interpretation training (RELAX) plus usual care, or (ii) usual care alone. We will assess anxiety, depression, RNT, and work and social adjustment at baseline, plus 4, 8 and 36 weeks later.DiscussionShould the intervention result in lower levels of anxiety than usual care, it could be an accessible, cost-effective way to help women who are vulnerable to experiencing anxiety in the perinatal period.Trial registrationISRCTN 12754931. Registered 25th May 2023, prior to recruitment.

Kahoot! Game‐based digital learning platform: A comprehensive meta‐analysis

AbstractBackgroundIn recent years, the widespread use of technology in classrooms has encouraged the transition from traditional lecture methods to digital‐based learning environments. Technological game‐based learning platforms, such as Kahoot!, which are used to encourage students' active participation and interaction in learning environments, are used significantly by teachers and students in educational environments worldwide.ObjectivesThis article aims to examine the effects of Kahoot, a digital learning platform, on education through meta‐analysis. This meta‐analysis provides a holistic understanding of the potential impact of Kahoot on education by synthesizing the results of various experimental studies. This study evaluates the influence of Kahoot on key educational variables, such as academic achievement, retention, motivation, anxiety and attitude, which are essential for enhancing teaching methods and optimizing learning environments.MethodsThe study conducted a meta‐analysis following the guidelines outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA). A total of 43 studies that met the specified criteria were included in the sample, providing a comprehensive overview of the impact of Kahoot across different contexts. The sample was n = 1706 for the experimental group and n = 1647 for the control group.Results and ConclusionThe findings from the meta‐analysis indicate that Kahoot has a significant moderate positive effect on academic achievement, with an average effect size of 0.772 (95%CI: 0.540–1.004). The analysis also shows a very large positive effect on retention, with an average effect size of 1.492, suggesting that students using Kahoot tend to have significantly higher retention compared with those who do not. For motivation, Kahoot demonstrates a large positive effect, with an average effect size of 0.960, indicating that students using Kahoot tend to be more motivated. The impact on anxiety is less clear, with a small negative effect size of −0.338, suggesting a moderate reduction in anxiety levels among students using Kahoot. Lastly, Kahoot appears to have a medium positive effect on students' attitudes towards learning, with an average effect size of 0.678.TakeawaysThese results underscore the potential of Kahoot as an effective educational tool. The results of this study provide valuable guiding information for educators and policy makers by helping to optimize teaching methods and learning environments through the effective use of digital tools, such as Kahoot. The findings suggest that Kahoot can increase academic achievement, retention, motivation and attitudes and potentially reduce anxiety, making it a promising digital tool for modern educational practice.

The Role Of Mindfulness To Reduce Anxiety Facing Muhafadzoh In Female Students Of Islamic Boarding School X

The aim of this research is to describe the role of mindfulness by using relaxation techniques to reduce the level of anxiety facing muhafadzoh in female students at Madrasah Mu'allimin Mu'allimat Islamic Boarding School X. This research uses a quasi-experimental method. The subjects of this research were female students of Madrasah Mu'allimin and Mu'allimat Pondok Pesantren The data collection technique uses a scale results sheet in the form of a questionnaire while data analysis uses non-parametric Mann-Whitney U. Based on the research results, a 2-tailed asymp sig value of 0.00 &lt; 0.05 is obtained, which indicates that the application of Mindfulness has a significant impact on the variable. observed, namely the level of anxiety. These findings consistently support the research hypothesis which suspects that Mindfulness intervention will be effective in reducing anxiety levels in female students at Islamic Boarding School X.

Hypnotherapy Technique to Reduce Anxiety Levels in Elderly with Hypertension

Background: One of the non-pharmacological intervention that can be used is hypnotherapy. This intervention uses suggestions that will relax the client's condition so that the brain produces the hormones serotonin, endorpine, and activation of autonomic nerve responses. At the same time the neuroendocrine system will also lower levels of cortisol, glucocorticoids, gonadocorticoids, epinephrine, norepinephrine and will act directly on the alpha androgenic receptors of vascular smooth muscle, thus causing vasodilation of blood vessels, lowering total peripheral pressure and decreasing blood pressure, pulse, and breathing. Objectives: This study is to determine the effect of hypnotherapy techniques on reducing anxiety levels in elderly families with hypertension at RT 10/RW 05 Lenteng Agung, South Jakarta. Methods: This study employed a quantitative pre-experimental design with a one-group pre-test post-test approach to examine the effect of an intervention on anxiety levels in elderly individuals with hypertension. The study population consisted of 39 elderly individuals, with 15 participants meeting the inclusion criteria. Data were collected in 2023, and the sample was selected using total sampling, consisting of 9 women and 6 men. Participants were observed before and after the intervention to assess changes in anxiety levels. Results: This study showed that after being given hypnotherapy technique treatment, the majority experienced a decrease in anxiety levels, namely mild anxiety as many as 11 elderly (73.3%) and respondents who experienced moderate anxiety as many as 4 elderly (46.7%) Conclusion: The majority of elderly individuals with hypertension experienced severe anxiety before receiving hypnosis techniques. After the application of hypnosis, most experienced a reduction in anxiety to mild levels. This demonstrates that hypnosis techniques have a significant effect in reducing anxiety levels in elderly individuals with hypertension

PENURUNAN TINGKAT KECEMASAN PADA PENDERITA LUKA KRONIS MELALUI PENYULUHAN KESEHATAN BERBASIS COUNSELING PSYCHORELIGIOUS DI PRAKTEK MANDIRI KOTA PEKANBARU

Introduction : Anxiety is a premonition of a terrible situation that will occur and is a preparation for action but in reality it does not occur, there is indeed no object or situation that must be avoided, to overcome anxiety the technique that can be used is in the form of health education based on psychoreligious counseling.The purpose of health education is to provide an understanding to be able to reduce anxiety in chronic wound patients in independent wound care practices in Pekanbaru City. Method: Activities devotion This done as many as 3 stages for 2 weeks . Stages activity that is pre orientation , orientation , activities (2 sessions ), and termination . Activities This Already implemented in practice independent maintenance wounds in the city Pekanbaru . Number participant in activity namely 30 people. Counseling Psychoreligious carried out and assisted by the facilitator with time 55- 60 minutes each session meeting . Evaluation done through interviews and questionnaires depression from DASS 42. Result: The results of community service through counseling that have been carried out in the independent wound care practice in Pekanbaru City prove that health counseling based on psychoreligious counseling is effective in reducing anxiety levels. This can be seen from the results of the analysis, there is a difference in the average decrease in anxiety before and after the intervention in the intervention group with a mean difference of 2.800. In the control group there is a difference with a mean difference of -0.330. Conclusion : health counseling based on psychoreligious counseling is effective in reducing anxiety levels in chronic wound sufferers.

Sexual Health and Psychological Well-Being: An Examination of the Interactions between Sexual Satisfaction, Relationship Dynamics, And Mental Health

This study comprehensively examines the relationships between sexual health and psychological well-being, focusing on sexual satisfaction, relationship dynamics, and mental health. The primary objective of this research is to determine how individuals' levels of sexual satisfaction impact their psychological well-being and to understand the dynamics of this relationship. While existing literature widely discusses the positive effects of sexual satisfaction on individuals' overall mental health and quality of life, this research aims to analyze these interactions from a more unique perspective. Utilizing quantitative methods, including statistical analyses such as independent sample t-tests, the study compares face-to-face and online data sets. The findings reveal that sexual satisfaction has a significant and robust impact on psychological well-being. It was observed that sexual satisfaction enhances individuals' capacity to cope with stress, reduces anxiety levels, and improves overall mental health. Additionally, relationship dynamics, particularly factors such as emotional alignment and closeness with a partner, significantly strengthen the interaction between sexual satisfaction and psychological well-being. In this context, the study sheds light on the interdependent dynamics of sexual health and psychological well-being, offering critical insights for clinical practice in this area. Enhancing sexual satisfaction could substantially improve individuals' quality of life and mental health. Therefore, it is recommended that sexual health topics receive greater emphasis in psychotherapy and counseling processes.

Implementasi Terapi Bermain Plastisin Terhadap Penurunan Tingkat Kecemasan Pada Anak Pre Operasi Sirkumsisi Di Klinik Rathnoe Khitan Ngawi

Introduction: There are both religious and medical reasons for performing circumcision. There are many different approaches to circumcision, but it is still one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures worldwide. Children often experience significant levels of apprehension, fear, and pain before the circumcision procedure. Negative consequences, such as uncooperative circumcision, result from uncontrollable anxiety reactions. Objective: Using plasticine play therapy, this community service project aims to reduce anxiety in adolescent patients who will undergo circumcision surgery. This volunteer activity was conducted at Rathnoe Khitan Ngawi Clinic. Method: Implementing a hands-on plasticine play therapy method, followed by discussion and assessment, was the strategy used. Before and after receiving plasticine play therapy, the children's anxiety levels were assessed. Children at Rathnoe Khitan Ngawi Clinic who were waiting to be circumcised were the beneficiaries of this community service activity. Result: The results of this PkM are the anxiety level of the participants before the implementation of plasticine play therapy, the majority of participants felt moderate anxiety as many as 17 participants (85%), and after the implementation of plasticine play therapy there was a decrease in the anxiety scale to mild as many as 17 participants (85%). Conclusion: Based on the Wilcoxon test, the p-value is 0.001, which means that the p-value &lt;0.05, it is concluded that there is an effect of pre and post implementation of play platisin therapy on reducing anxiety levels in children pre-circumcision surgery at the Rathnoe Khitan Ngawi Clinic.

Phytochemical and pharmacological evaluation of bacopa monniera for anti – anxiety activity

Anxiety, a common emotional response to stress, involves numerous brain regions and neurotransmitters, including the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus, and is partially by genetic, environmental, and biological factors. This study evaluates Bacopa monnieri, a herb known in Ayurvedic medicine for its cognitive-enhancing and adaptogenic properties, as a potential anti-anxiety agent. The plant's ethanolic extract revealed a variety of phytochemicals, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins. Acute toxicity studies indicated a high safety margin with an LD50 exceeding 2000 mg/kg body weight. The anti-anxiety effects were assessed using three established models. In the Elevated Plus-Maze Test, Bacopa monnieri significantly reduced anxiety levels in mice, comparable to the standard anxiolytic benzodiazepine. The Hole-Board Test showed increased head-dipping and rearing behaviors, while reducing immobility, suggesting anxiolytic activity. The Light-Dark Exploration Test demonstrated the herb's ability to decrease anxiety-related behaviors, including a reduction in rearing in dark compartments and increased exploration of light areas. These findings provide scientific validation for Bacopa monnieri's traditional use in treating anxiety and support its potential as an effective and safe anti-anxiety agent in managing central nervous system disorders.

Contribution of prefrontal cortex and ventral hippocampus to anxiety in young epileptic mice

Children with epilepsy are particularly vulnerable to anxiety disorders, where these disorders are frequently underdiagnosed and untreated. Despite the high prevalence of anxiety in epilepsy, the underlying neurobiological mechanisms are not fully understood. The medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and ventral hippocampus (vHPC) are key brain regions implicated in the genesis and modulation of anxiety, and their interactions play a crucial role in emotional processing including anxiety. We utilized a pilocarpine-induced epilepsy model in young mice (7 weeks old) to assess anxiety-like behaviors using the open field test (OFT), light/dark box, and elevated plus maze (EPM). Local field potential (LFP) recordings were conducted to examine theta power and coherence between the mPFC and vHPC. LFP recordings revealed significantly altered theta power variation in both the mPFC and vHPC during exposure to anxiogenic contexts, suggesting the involvement of these regions in anxiety in the young epileptic mice. Notably, theta-frequency synchrony between the mPFC and vHPC was not significantly altered in the young epileptic mice, indicating that altered theta power rather than inter-regional synchrony may underlie anxiety behaviors in young epileptic mice. Furthermore, we demonstrated that chemogenetic inhibition of excitatory neurons in the mPFC and vHPC reduced anxiety levels in young epileptic mice. Altogether, our findings highlight the critical contributions of mPFC and vHPC to the pathogenesis of comorbid anxiety in epilepsy. These findings underscore the potential therapeutic significance of modulating the activity in these two regions as means to alleviate anxiety in a youth epilepsy population.

Development of an artificial intelligence-enabled non-invasive digital stethoscope for monitoring the heart condition of athletes in real-time

This study investigates the efficacy of AI-enabled digital stethoscopes in enhancing physical performance, increasing student engagement and motivation, and improving psychological well-being among physical culture students. The experimental design involved two groups of 40 students each: the experimental group used AI-enabled stethoscopes for real-time cardiovascular monitoring, while the control group relied on traditional heart rate monitoring methods. The results indicated significant improvements in physical performance, engagement, and psychological well-being for the experimental group. Real-time monitoring facilitated personalized training adjustments, optimizing training loads and preventing overexertion, leading to superior performance outcomes. Additionally, the use of innovative monitoring tools significantly increased student motivation and engagement in physical culture classes, as reflected in higher attendance rates and more enthusiastic participation. Psychological assessments revealed that continuous health monitoring reduced anxiety levels and enhanced overall mental well-being, providing students with a sense of security and proactive health management. These findings underscore the transformative potential of integrating advanced monitoring technologies into physical education and rehabilitation programs, offering precise, real-time data that supports individualized and responsive interventions. The study concludes with a call for further research to explore the long-term impacts and broader applications of AI-enabled health monitoring tools in diverse educational and clinical settings, aiming to maximize their benefits and improve overall student and patient outcomes. Keywords: Sports therapy, Physical culture education, Health monitoring technology, Personalized training, Student engagement, Real-time cardiovascular monitoring, AI-enabled stethoscope.

The Effect Of Therapeutic Communication On The Anxiety Level Of The Elderly

Introduction: Anxiety disorders have a high incidence rate in the elderly, with the most significant factor being thinking about the disease they are suffering from. This requires therapeutic communication to build a nurse-patient relationship with the elderly to adapt to psychological disorders, including anxiety, to relieve and make elderly patients feel comfortable, ultimately speeding up their recovery. Goals: Aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of therapeutic communication in reducing anxiety levels in the elderly. Method: A review article was conducted based on research issues and methodology, with article searches using the PICO framework strategy using the Google Scholar, Springer, ResearchGate, and Semantic Scholar databases. Results: The results of the study show that anxiety is a common problem often experienced by the elderly during the aging process. Some factors that trigger anxiety in the elderly include health issues and a lack of social interaction due to death or relocation. The research indicates that therapeutic communication can help reduce anxiety levels in the elderly. Good therapeutic communication by healthcare professionals has a positive impact on reducing patient anxiety. Discussion: In this regard, the researcher highlights the importance of therapeutic communication in reducing anxiety in the elderly. Both verbal and nonverbal therapeutic communication is considered a key element in nursing care. Additionally, the researcher emphasizes the importance of adopting different approaches when applying therapeutic communication techniques to the elderly. Unstable emotional reactions and communication barriers pose specific challenges in interacting with the elderly.

Effect of acupressure on anxiety among cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy: A systematic review

This systematic review was conducted to investigate the impact of acupressure on anxiety levels among cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Comprehensive searches were performed in international electronic databases including Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science, as well as Iranian databases such as Iranmedex, from inception to February 1, 2024, utilizing keywords derived from Medical Subject Headings such as "acupressure", "anxiety", and "chemotherapy". The methodological quality of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute's critical appraisal checklist. A total of five studies, encompassing 401 cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, were included in the review. Among these patients, 83.26% were female, with 54.36% assigned to the intervention group. The mean age of participants was 51.01 (SD=8.52) years. Of the included studies, three were RCTs and two were quasi-experimental studies. The average study duration and follow-up period were approximately 31 weeks and 35 days, respectively. Moreover, the average duration of the intervention was 18 minutes. Across all studies, acupressure interventions demonstrated efficacy in reducing anxiety levels among cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The findings suggest that healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, can effectively utilize acupressure techniques to alleviate anxiety in this patient population. It is recommended that healthcare managers and policymakers facilitate the integration of acupressure interventions into hospital settings, thereby enhancing the provision of care and support for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.