Reduction In Symptoms Research Articles

Novel pharmaceutical treatment approaches for schizophrenia: a systematic literature review.

Schizophrenia is a chronic and debilitating neuropsychiatric disorder affecting approximately 1% of the global population. Traditional antipsychotic treatments, while effective for positive symptoms, often have significant side effects and fail to address cognitive and negative symptoms. Novel pharmacological treatments targeting muscarinic receptors, TAAR1 agonists, serotonergic pathways, and glutamate modulation have emerged as promising alternatives. This systematic literature review aims to critically evaluate the efficacy, safety, and mechanisms of action of novel pharmacological agents in the treatment of schizophrenia. A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and clinical trials published between April 2014 and March 2024. Studies evaluating novel treatments targeting muscarinic receptors, TAAR1 agonists, serotonergic agents, and glutamate modulation were included. Primary outcomes focused on symptom reduction and quality of life, while secondary outcomes included cognitive function and adverse events. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tool was used for quality assessment. Eleven studies involving 4614 participants (mean age 37-43 years, predominantly male) were included. Drugs evaluated included xanomeline-trospium (KarXT), pimavanserin, ulotaront, emraclidine, and bitopertin. Significant improvements in PANSS and CGI-S scores were observed, with xanomeline-trospium showing a mean reduction of 17.4 points (p < 0.001). Adverse events were mostly mild and transient, with nausea, constipation, and somnolence being common. Novel treatments for schizophrenia show promise in managing both positive and negative symptoms, with generally favorable safety profiles. Future studies should focus on large-scale, long-term trials to refine their efficacy, safety, and clinical applicability.

Effectiveness of an Internet-Based, Self-Guided, Short-Term Mindfulness Training (ISSMT) Program for Relieving Depressive Symptoms in the Adult Population in China: Single-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial.

Depression is a significant global public health issue, and in China, access to mental health services remains limited despite high demand. Research has shown that mindfulness can effectively alleviate depressive symptoms and that telehealth solutions offer a promising avenue for addressing this service gap. Despite this potential, there are currently few studies in China focusing on short-term online mindfulness training. Most existing online mindfulness studies relied on traditional 8-week programs, which can be challenging for participant adherence due to limited accessibility and high dropout rates. Additionally, limited research exists on short-term online mindfulness interventions, and findings remain inconsistent. This study aimed to develop and evaluate an internet-based, self-guided, short-term mindfulness training (ISSMT) program based on the Monitor and Acceptance Theory (MAT) to reduce depression symptoms. The ISSMT program was delivered via an online platform, "Hi Emotion," and was accessible to the general public. Interested individuals aged 18 years and older were randomized into either the ISSMT group or a wait-list control group. Participants in the ISSMT group received daily reminders to participate in a 15- to 20-minute session over a 14-day training period. Measurements, including mindfulness and depressive symptoms, were collected at baseline and weekly for the subsequent 3 weeks. A total of 205 adults participated in the 14-day online intervention. Linear mixed models were used to analyze both per-protocol (PP) and intention-to-treat (ITT) samples. Compared with the wait-list control group, participants in the ISSMT group showed significant improvements in mindfulness (Cohen d=0.44 for ITT; Cohen d=0.55 for PP) and reductions in depressive symptoms (Cohen d=0.50 for ITT; Cohen d=0.53 for PP). Furthermore, participants expressed high acceptance of this training format with a relatively low dropout rate (<40%). The ISSMT program based on the MAT effectively enhanced mindfulness and alleviated depressive symptoms. This intervention could be considered for integration into psychosocial service systems to improve mental health outcomes and help bridge the gap between limited resources and the high demand for services in China. Future research should focus on personalizing these programs and incorporating advanced technologies to enhance their effectiveness and user engagement. Open Science Framework; https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/8P4V6.

Moving More: Physical Activity and Its Positive Effects on Depression and Anxiety in Children and Young People.

This project has 2 aims: First, to identify and summarize the most clinically important aspects of the published evidence on physical activity and sport in children and young people for the treatment or prevention of depression, anxiety, or symptoms of these conditions. Second, this study aims to funnel and develop this evidence to create clinically meaningful summaries on the Moving Medicine website and to guide clinicians on the day-to-day conversations clinicians have with children and young people about the benefits of physical activity for mental health. This mixed methods study combines a scoping review with expert clinical review using the knowledge creation funnel component of the KTA framework. We searched Pubmed, OvidSp, Cochrane, OvidEmbase, OvidEmcare and AMED databases using the following search strategy, which included appropriate truncation symbols to account for variations of the search terms and maximize searches: Depression OR depressed OR anxiety OR "generalised anxiety disorder" OR anxious* OR "low mood" OR "Mood disorder" AND Children OR Child OR adolescen* OR teenager OR "young people*" OR "young person*" AND Exercise OR "physical activ*" OR sport OR "Physically activ*". Sixty-eight studies were included in this review, and evidence suggested that interventions of varying intensity can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in children and young people. The effects of physical activity on other mental health outcomes were also encouraging. The available evidence suggests that physical activity is a promising strategy to improve mental health in children and young people. The literature overwhelmingly supports the benefits of regular physical activity both in the prevention of mental health issues for children and young people and in reduction of symptoms for those with already established symptoms. This review has translated this knowledge into accessible and relevant resources for healthcare professionals to use in their practice.

Physical and mental health outcomes of integrated care: Systematic review of study.

Integrated primary care (IPC) is a proposed alternative concept to health care aimed at increasing access to care and promoting holistic health by combining treatment for biological, psychological, and social domains. To solidify the importance of IPC compared to traditional methods of health care delivery, outcome measurement is essential to bolster the claim that such a shift in patient care can improve holistic health. This systematic review sought to understand the literature accounting for both physical and mental health outcomes in IPC settings. Systematic searches within PsycINFO, Embase, and PubMed databases identified 2,729 studies that fit our predetermined criteria. Studies were included if they were within a setting that met our definition of IPC and tracked for both physical and mental health indicators. In total, 42 screened studies fit our criteria with approximately 28 distinct IPC models represented, each employing different team members to deliver interventions. Fifteen studies found improvements in both physical and mental health outcomes, while others only noted improvement in physical (n = 4) or mental health outcomes (n = 15) alone. Of the 15 studies that found improvement in both outcomes, depression and diabetes were the two that improved together most frequently. This review found evidence of IPC settings improving both biological and psychological outcomes, with a considerable number demonstrating depressive symptom reduction in comparison to any other physical or mental health condition. Continuing efforts are still needed to measure concurrent physical and mental health conditions to make progress toward improved holistic health care systems. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).

Efficacy and safety of a multi-action tear substitute based on 0.15% cross-linked hyaluronic acid, 3% trehalose and liposomes with stearylamine: A randomized, single-mask, controlled study.

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of TriMix, a new multiple-action tear substitute in patients with dry eye disease (DED). This was a randomized, multicenter, single-masked, hyaluronic acid (HA)-controlled clinical trial conducted between July, 2023 and May, 2024. A total of 115 patients were randomly allocated to receive either TriMix tear substitute or 0.15% HA tear substitute 3 times daily. Clinical outcomes include ocular surface disease index (OSDI) questionnaire, non-invasive tear film break-up time (NIBUT) and Schirmer I test (ST) without anesthesia at 3 and 6 months of follow-up. Of the 115 patients randomized, 80 completed the study (TriMix, n = 56; HA, n = 24). At months 3 and 6, improvements from baseline were statistically greater with TriMix tear substitute compared to HA 0.15% tear substitute for OSDI: -3.7 points (95% CI, -6.9 to -0.6; p = 0.011) and - 7.5 points (95% CI, -10.3 to -4.6; p < 0.001), respectively. Similar results were reported for NIBUT: 0.9s (95% CI, 0.3 to 1.6; P = 0.040) and 1.6s (95% CI, 0.7 to 2.6; P < 0.001), respectively. Regarding safety, no serious ocular adverse events occurred. Three patients complained of burning after instillation of TriMix tear substitute. This RCTs demonstrate that TriMix tear substitute provides statistically significant and clinically evidence of the reduction of DED symptoms with a satisfactory safety profile through 6 months of follow-up. Findings suggest the use of this tear substitute, but results should be confirmed independently over longer time periods.

Associations among sleep quality, cognitive processing therapy, and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms in a primary care setting.

Evidence describing the association between sleep quality and trauma-focused therapy is mixed. This secondary analysis of a primary care sample examined whether (a) baseline sleep quality moderated posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom severity over time across groups receiving different doses of cognitive processing therapy (CPT) and (b) sleep quality improved over time with CPT. Participants were 227 adults who screened positive for PTSD and were participating in a clinical trial comparing two models of PTSD treatment delivery in primary care. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) were used to assess sleep disturbance and PTSD symptom severity, respectively. Multiple linear regression was used to assess whether baseline PSQI scores moderated 12-month PCL-5 scores across CPT dosage groups (0 sessions: 51.1%, 1-7 sessions: 31.7%; ≥ 8 sessions [adequate dose]: 17.2%) and whether PSQI scores differed by group at 12-month follow-up. Post hoc analyses examined changes in PCL-5 sleep disturbance items. Baseline sleep disturbance did not moderate the effect of CPT on PTSD severity among participants with an adequate CPT dose, p>.112.Sleep quality improved with adequate dose, B = -2.63, SE = 0.75,p<.001. Differences in change scores across groups for PCL-5 Item 2,F(2, 435) = 11.34,and Item 20,H(2) = 32.04, indicated that participants with an adequate CPT dose had greater reductions in trauma-related sleep symptoms than those who received 0-7 sessions, ps <.001. Residual post-CPT sleep impairment despite adequate PTSD improvement warrants further interventions.

Outcome measurement in functional neurological disorder: A qualitative study on the views of patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals

BackgroundIn this qualitative study, we aimed to obtain and synthesise the views of patients with functional neurological disorder (FND), their caregivers, and relevant healthcare professionals (HCPs) on outcome measurement in FND.MethodsSemi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 FND patients, 18 caregivers and 21 HCPs, sampled purposively in the United Kingdom. Transcripts were analysed through inductive thematic analysis.ResultsWhilst reduction or resolution of FND symptoms were frequently mentioned as important treatment goals in all groups, this was reported by a larger proportion of caregivers and HCPs than patients. Patients most frequently hoped for improvements in mental health/well-being. Other important treatment goals were resuming work, and an increase in independence, self-management or self-efficacy.Of the 20 domains deemed relevant for outcome assessment, improvements in FND symptoms, emotional well-being, activities of daily living and quality-of-life, were mentioned most frequently.None of the participants thought that outcome assessment should be purely clinician-rated or objective; all believed that the patient’s subjective experience should be central. Nevertheless, participants in all groups acknowledged that clinician-rated or objective OMIs have added value in clinical outcome assessment. The benefits of digital outcome assessment were also mentioned by several participants.ConclusionsThis is the first study to capture the views of key stakeholders on outcome assessment in FND. The findings indicate that outcome measures for FND should be patient-centred, whilst also including HCP opinion. Critical domains for assessment are FND symptoms, mental health, quality-of-life and the ability to perform activities of daily living.

Comparing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Ericksonian Hypnotherapy for subclinical depression and anxiety: a randomized controlled trial

ABSTRACT This randomized controlled trial examined the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Ericksonian Hypnotherapy (EH) in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety among individuals with subclinical levels of distress. A total of 150 participants were screened, and 45 eligible participants were randomized into three groups: CBT (n = 15), EH (n = 15), and a waitlist control group (n = 15). Interventions consisted of 12 weekly sessions, with assessments conducted at baseline, mid-intervention, and post-intervention using the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Both CBT and EH significantly reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety compared to the control group, with no significant differences in efficacy between the two interventions. CBT’s structured approach demonstrated consistent improvements across both depression and anxiety, while EH showed a slightly faster reduction in anxiety symptoms at mid-intervention, highlighting its potential for addressing somatic and cognitive dimensions of anxiety. This study extends previous findings by focusing on a non-clinical population, emphasizing the potential of these interventions as early strategies for preventing symptom escalation. Unlike prior work primarily targeting diagnosed populations, this research underscores the applicability of CBT and EH in addressing subthreshold distress. Limitations include a small sample size, lack of follow-up assessments, and reliance on self-reported measures. Future research should explore long-term outcomes, larger samples, and the integration of CBT and EH. These findings contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting diverse psychotherapeutic modalities for early mental health intervention.

A pilot study of twice-weekly group-based written exposure therapy for veterans in residential substance use treatment: effects on PTSD and depressive symptoms

BackgroundPosttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is highly comorbid with substance use disorders (SUDs), resulting in high prevalence of PTSD among individuals in residential SUD care. However, there is limited research on integrating trauma treatment into residential SUD care settings. The aim of the present project was to conduct an initial evaluation of the effects of group-based Written Exposure Therapy (WET) on PTSD and depressive symptoms that was integrated into programming for individuals in residential SUD treatment.MethodsParticipants were 48 Veterans with comorbid PTSD-SUD from a 28 day residential SUD program at a Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Eligible participants were enrolled in 5 sessions of WET, delivered twice-weekly in an adapted group format. PTSD symptoms and depressive symptoms were assessed at each session with the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist, DSM-5 version (PCL-5) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9).ResultsOver 5 months, 76.2% of the target population were successfully enrolled. Of the enrolled sample, 48 participants, 92% (n = 44) completed 3 sessions, while 56% (n = 28) completed 5 sessions. Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) showed significant within-person reductions in PTSD symptoms over time, with an average decrease of 3.18 per session (χ² = 23.21, p = .006) and moderate effect sizes (d = 0.46 and d = 0.51 at mid- and post-treatment). In addition, there were significant reductions in depressive symptoms within-persons over time, with an average per-session reduction of 1.13 (χ² = 23.10, p = .006).ConclusionFindings demonstrate that brief, group-delivered WET is feasible and shows promise for addressing PTSD and depressive symptoms in residential SUD treatment. Results of the present evaluation could inform further efficacy testing and implementation of PTSD treatment into residential SUD settings.

Personalized chat-based support for smoking cessation among smokers with mental health symptoms in the workplace: A randomized controlled trial.

Smoking rates are disproportionately high among people with mental health issues. We evaluated the effectiveness of a chat-based intervention paired with psychological support for workplace smokers with mental health symptoms. A pragmatic, two-arm, randomized controlled trial in 65 companies in Hong Kong, China. 300 employees who smoked daily (84.3% male) with stress (Perceived Stress Scale-4 ≥ 6), anxiety (General Anxiety Disorder-2 ≥ 3) or depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-2 ≥ 3). Participants were randomly allocated to either the intervention group (n = 144) or the control group (n = 156). The intervention group received 20 instant messages and chat-based support delivered by trained counselors over 3months, using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. The control group received 6 messages on general health. Both groups received a health talk and self-help booklet at baseline, brief phone advice at follow-ups and full-course nicotine replacement therapy for continuing smokers at 6months. The primary outcome was self-reported 7-day point prevalence abstinence (PPA) at 6months after intervention initiation. Secondary outcomes included PPA at 1, 3, 9 and 12 months, changes in mental health symptoms and intervention engagement (chatting with counsellors). By intention to treat, there was no evidence of a difference in 7-day PPA between intervention and control group at 6months [16.0% vs. 13.5%, odds ratio (OR) = 1.22, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.64-2.32]. At 12 months, there was weak evidence of an intervention benefit (21.5% vs. 13.5%, 1.76, 0.96-3.24), which was statistically significant after adjusting for baseline factors (adjusted OR = 2.61, 1.22-5.58, P = 0.01). A greater reduction in anxiety symptoms over a 12-month period in the intervention group was observed (adjusted b = -0.28, 95% CI = -0.56 to -0.00, P = 0.05). There appears to be weak evidence for a benefit of a personalised chat-based smoking cessation intervention plus psychological support on promoting smoking abstinence among workplace smokers with mental health symptoms.

Physical activity and depression

This article aims to present the significance of physical activity as a key element in the prevention and therapy of depressive disorders. Through a review of the latest scientific research findings, the article focuses on the role of regular physical activity in reducing the risk of depressive disorders and its effectiveness in the therapeutic process. Various aspects of physical activity are analyzed, such as the type and intensity of training, their impact on neurobiological and psychosocial functions. The article discusses the benefits of physical activity, including mood improvement, reduction of depressive symptoms, and overall well-being enhancement. Furthermore, attention is drawn to the biological mechanisms that may underlie the positive impact of physical activity on mental health. In a therapeutic context, the article examines how physical activity can be an effective complement to traditional methods of treating depression, both pharmacological and psychotherapeutic. The importance of adapting training programs to individual needs and preferences of patients is also emphasized. As a result, the article provides a comprehensive overview of current knowledge regarding the role of physical activity in the prevention and therapy of depressive disorders, with the hope of inspiring further research and refining intervention strategies in the field of mental health.

The bergen 4-day treatment for panic disorder: a longer-term follow-up

IntroductionBergen 4-Day treatment (B4DT) is a form of concentrated exposure-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in which patients receive treatment over four consecutive days. Previous studies have shown B4DT to be a promising treatment format for panic disorder (PD), although the long-term stability of treatment gains requires additional study.AimThe aim of the current study was to evaluate the longer-term effectiveness of B4DT for patients with panic disorder with or without agoraphobia. This study extends a previously published study by providing a long-term follow-up of the same cohort (n = 30), initially assessed at three months post-treatment.MethodThirty patients with panic disorder were consecutively included in a retrospect open trial. The primary outcome measure was the Panic Disorder Severity Scale. The secondary outcome measures were the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Outcomes were assessed at pretreatment, posttreatment, 3-month follow-up, and longer-term follow-up (with a mean time of 18 months).ResultsThere was a significant reduction in panic disorder symptoms from pretreatment to longer-term follow-up (d = 5.03, 95% CI [18.55, 21.12] to [1.33, 3.87]). The Panic Disorder Severity Scale (PDSS) mean decreased from 19.83 (SD = 0.64, 95% CI [18.55, 21.12]) before treatment, to 4.37 (SD = 0.64, 95% CI [2.98, 5.76]) post-treatment, followed by further decreases at the 3-month follow-up to a mean of 2.84 (SD = 0.64, 95% CI [1.45, 4.22]), and at the longer-term follow-up to 2.60 (SD = 0.64, 95% CI [1.33, 3.87]). There was no significant difference in symptom severity between the 3-month and 18-month assessments, indicating a sustained improvement (p <.001). At the 18-month follow-up, 90% of the patients were classified as being in remission. There were also significant reductions in symptoms of depression (d = 1.44) and generalized anxiety (d = 1.62) that were maintained at the longer-term follow-up assessment.ConclusionThe results from the current study indicated that the treatment effects of B4DT are stable over time and that the treatment format appears to be promising for PD. Confirming these preliminary results in rigorous study designs is needed.Trial registrationThe study was approved by the Regional Committee for Medical and Health Research Ethics of Northern Norway (REK Nord-2021/209619).

The Impact of Trauma-Informed Care on Mental Health Outcomes for Incarcerated Youth: A Longitudinal Study in Bandung, Indonesia

Introduction: Incarcerated youth represent a vulnerable population with disproportionately high rates of trauma exposure and mental health disorders. This study investigated the longitudinal impact of a trauma-informed care (TIC) program on mental health outcomes for incarcerated youth in Bandung, Indonesia. Methods: A quasi-experimental design was employed, comparing a group of incarcerated youth who received TIC with a control group receiving standard care. Participants (n=200) were assessed at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months using validated instruments measuring PTSD symptoms, depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems. Data analysis included repeated measures ANOVA and correlational analyses. Results: Youth in the TIC group demonstrated significant reductions in PTSD symptoms, depression, and anxiety over time compared to the control group. Improvements in behavioral problems were also observed in the TIC group. These positive changes were sustained over the 12-month period. Conclusion: This study provides evidence for the effectiveness of TIC in improving mental health outcomes for incarcerated youth. Implementing TIC programs in juvenile detention facilities is crucial for addressing the mental health needs of this vulnerable population.

Use of commercial fertilizers in an IPDM protocol to mitigate Olive Quick Decline Syndrome caused by Xylella fastidiosa subsp. pauca in Southern Italy.

Management of Xylella fastidiosa subsp. pauca (Xfp) presents significant challenges due to the lack of genetic resistance in major crops, pathogen variability and resistance development against the main antimicrobial compounds, and the lack of effective chemical compounds for control. Traditional bactericides in the EU are restricted, and copper-based products are increasingly limited due to environmental impacts. In this study the antibacterial side effects of some commercial fertilizers against Xfp were evaluated. These products, containing metal ions (mainly copper and/or zinc) complexed with phosphites and bioavailable silicon, show antimicrobial and bactericidal activities in vitro which suggest their possible use to control the pathogen, as well as enhanced plant resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Greenhouse and open field trials showed that they can significantly reduce disease severity and pathogen population, thus improving fruit yield. The integrated pest and disease management (IPDM) strategy, which combines these treatments with agronomic and phytosanitary vector-control measures, leads to a reduction of disease symptoms in treated plants compared to untreated ones. These findings highlight the potential of systemic fertilizers to mitigate Xfp symptoms by providing antimicrobial collateral effects and probably enhance plant defenses, since similar compounds are known to be plant defense inducers in other pathosystems. Therefore, these products offer a sustainable solution for managing plant pathogenic bacteria and improving crop health and yield. This approach is crucial for the sustainability of olive production in Xf-affected areas. However, further research is needed to optimize these strategies for long-term effectiveness under field conditions. Overall, the results emphasize the value of the collateral effects of some mineral fertilizers in a comprehensive strategy aimed at mitigating the symptoms of Xfp and safeguarding the agricultural productivity as well as the invaluable heritage of centuries-old Apulian olive trees.

Effectiveness of Home_Positivity: A VR Program for Promoting Positive Mental Health. A Pilot Feasibility Study

Virtual reality (VR) has been recently used for the treatment of mental health conditions. While research shows symptom reduction, further investigation is required to ascertain the impact of VR on well-being indicators. This pilot study aims to assess the effectiveness of a new VR software, H.O.M.E (How to Observe and Modify Emotion)_Positivity, in promoting positive mental health, which implies addressing both psychological distress and well-being. A sample of 16 healthy college students participated in a six-session intervention involving individual interviews and VR experiences using H.O.M.E delivered at the university of Bologna. They were assessed before and after intervention and at 3-month follow-up with indicators of negative symptoms (i.e., Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS) and the Negative affect scale of (PANAS) and of well-being (i.e., Mental Health Continuum (MHC) and the Positive Affect (PA) subscale of the PANAS. Moreover, they were asked to report their satisfaction and comments on the experience of the VR software. Following the intervention, participants reported significantly lower scores at DASS and higher scores at MHC and PA. In contrast, NA subscale score did not change significantly after the intervention or at three months follow-up. The results provide support to the use of H.O.M.E_Positivity for the promotion of positive mental health. Participants reported a reduction of psychological distress and improvement in well-being, and they were all highly satisfied and engaged while using the VR software. These findings indicate the potential value of this intervention, particularly in an increasingly digital society.

Effect of cilnidipine on depression-like behaviour in male Swiss mice: A study using the tail suspension test

Objective: The objective is to evaluate cilnidipine and compare it with fluoxetine on the depression model in male Swiss mice, utilising the tail suspension test and locomotor activity test. Materials and Methods: The animals were categorised into four groups, each consisting of six individuals (n = 6 per group). The subjects were given the test drug doses of cilnidipine at 5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg, as well as fluoxetine at 10 mg/kg, for a duration of 21 days through an intraperitoneal route. On days 1, 14 and 21, the locomotor activity was assessed using the actophotometer, while the antidepressant activity was assessed using the tail suspension test (TST). The duration of immobility was assessed using the total sleep time method for a 5-minute period, while the number of counts was monitored for 10 min using an actophotometer. Results: Cilnidipine at a dosage of 10 mg/kg demonstrates a reduction in symptoms of depression when compared to the standard control. Neither cilnidipine 5 mg/kg nor 10 mg/kg resulted in a noteworthy decrease in locomotor activity. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated a substantial antidepressant effect of cilnidipine 10 mg/kg dosage. More research is needed to validate the results reported.

Exploring the therapeutic potential of bi-modal stimulation for tinnitus

Background: Tinnitus is the perception of sound without any external acoustic stimuli, affecting over 10% of the population, especially older adults. Current treatments focus on symptom management rather than a complete cure, often providing limited relief. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of bimodal neuromodulation therapy for tinnitus, compared to traditional treatment methods. Results: Bimodal neuromodulation, which combines sound and tongue stimulation, has shown significant improvement in tinnitus symptoms. FDA-approved studies report sustained symptom reduction in over 77% of patients for up to 12 months. The most common side effect is an increase in tinnitus symptoms, similar to sound-only treatments. Conclusion: This therapy presents a high benefit-to-risk ratio with minimal side effects, offering better clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction compared to existing treatments. Adjustments in treatment parameters can further enhance its effectiveness over time. Bimodal neuromodulation shows promise as a more effective treatment for tinnitus. Future clinical trials should replicate these positive findings, evaluate long-term effects, and compare their effectiveness to other treatment options to improve accessibility and clinical outcomes for tinnitus patients.

Psilocybin mushroom stewardship: A qualitative inquiry into practices and priorities of “underground” psilocybin mushroom practitioners

AbstractBackground and AimsNetworks of so-called underground, or illegal, psilocybin mushroom practitioners are popularly known to exist, though few systematic investigations of their practices have been conducted. We sought to uncover the experiences of a hidden community of psilocybin practitioners in order to inform scientific and policy dialogues about safe and effective practices in this area.MethodsAn academic-community partnered research team used snowball sampling to recruit 17 underground psilocybin practitioners in a western U.S. state for in-depth individual interviews focused on training, protocols, practices, and policy priorities. Combined deductive and inductive analysis with three independent coders was completed using NVivo v12.ResultsPractitioners were white (76.5%), female-identified (64.7%), aged 31 to 50 (64.7%), non-therapists by training (58.8%), and moderately to highly experienced facilitators. All described multiple years of often difficult personal inner-directed work with psilocybin before guiding others. Benefits ranged from reduction in symptoms of depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and addictions to greater self-knowledge, reduced death anxiety, and a greater ability to experience joy. Client screening protocols revealed precautions for persons with severe trauma backgrounds, personality disorders, or lacking social support. Moving too quickly into a high dose mushroom session without adequate preparation or internal resourcing was perceived as a significant risk for harm. Practitioners' direct personal relationship with mushrooms was highlighted as critical to safe practice. Policy priorities centered on respectful reciprocity, defined as an ethos of giving back rather than extraction, and equitable access.ConclusionsWhile some psychedelic research actively examines the role of the mystical-type experience in clients' positive outcomes, findings from underground practitioners suggest an even greater role of mysticism, relationality, and expanded concepts of holistic healing that can inform the development of best practice paradigms of an emerging profession.

PENERAPAN INTERVENSI MENGGAMBAR PADA PASIEN SKIZOFRENIA DENGAN HALUSINASI PENGLIHATAN DAN PENDENGARAN : CASE REPORT

Schizophrenia symptoms may vary among individuals, but one of the most common symptoms is hallucinations. Hallucinations can be treated using drawing as a non-pharmacological intervention. The purpose of this study was to examine the reduction in auditory and visual hallucination symptoms in schizophrenia patients after receiving drawing intervention. The research utilized a clinical case report method following five stages of nursing care, from assessment to evaluation. The study focused on a single schizophrenia unspecified patient experiencing auditory and visual hallucinations. The patient underwent drawing intervention sessions, consisting of drawing activities, conducted three times over three consecutive days, with each session lasting 30 minutes to 1 hour. The evaluation revealed that most hallucination symptoms disappeared, leaving only one symptom with reduced intensity. The study concluded that implementing drawing intervention can reduces auditory and visual hallucination symptoms in schizophrenia patients.

Healing synchrony? potential benefits of interpersonal synchrony for chronic pain management

Fibromyalgia is called a pathology of misconnection at the neurophysiological, psychological, and social levels, and is characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain, which is accompanied by a series of symptoms, such as chronic fatigue, depression, anxiety, body perception disturbances, and cognitive deficits. In this article, I argue that interventions that in various ways enhance interpersonal neural synchronisation (INS) may bring long-term benefits to people with fibromyalgia (PwF). In the first part, I briefly introduce studies on INS in the general population. In the second part, I hypothesise that interpersonal synchrony may contribute to symptom reduction for individuals with fibromyalgia, in the sense that repeated experience of being in sync with others may play a role in restoring both the brain-body and self-others connection in this population and consequently result in simultaneous lasting improvement of wellbeing. In the final part, I discuss potential future research directions.