Significant Improvement In Sleep Quality Research Articles

Effect of weighted blankets on sleep quality among adults with insomnia: a pilot randomized controlled trial.

Weighted blanket is an emerging non-pharmacotherapy for sleep disorders, but its effect on sleep among relatively healthy adults with insomnia remains uncertain. This study aimed to evaluate whether weighted blankets could better improve sleep quality and sleep-related symptoms among adults with insomnia. In a prospective, pilot randomized controlled trial conducted in three tertiary hospitals in China, participants with clinical insomnia were randomized (1:1) to receive weighted blanket intervention or normal blanket intervention for 1 month by random-number tables. The primary outcomes were sleep quality assessed with Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and insomnia severity assessed with Insomnia Severity Index. Subjective outcomes were measured at baseline, 1 week, and 1-month post-intervention. Sleep was also objectively monitored by actigraphy. We did analysis by intention to treat. A total of 102 participants were randomly assigned to receive weighted blanket intervention (n = 52) or normal blanket intervention (n = 50). 95 (93.1%) participants completed the follow-up, and 7 (6.9%) participants dropped out of the study. The weighted blanket group had significant improvements in sleep quality compared to the normal blanket group after 1 month of intervention (changes in the mean [SD] of PSQI score: -4.1 [4.1] vs. -2.0 [3.2], P = 0.006). Similar results were observed for daytime sleepiness, stress, anxiety, fatigue, and bodily pain (all P < 0.05). Recordings from actigraphy showed a decrease in the mean (SD) of the number of awakenings in weighted blanket group (-1.4 [9.5]) and an increase in normal blanket group (+ 1.0 [7.9]) (P = 0.280). No severe adverse events occurred. Weighted blanket might be an effective, safe and promising non-pharmacotherapy tool for improving sleep-related symptoms among adults with insomnia, although validation with a larger sample size is needed. Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2300078011, date of registration: 11/27/2023, retrospectively registered.

Using motivational interviewing to improve sleep quality among patients with hypertension attending a tertiary hospital in southern Nigeria: a randomized controlled trial

IntroductionRestorative sleep is essential for the maintenance of overall health and for the prevention of chronic diseases, including hypertension. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of motivational interviewing (MI) on sleep quality in patients with hypertension.MethodsThe study was a randomised controlled trial (PACTR202301917477205) of 250 adult patients aged 18 to 65 years (125 in each group) with hypertension presenting to the Family Medicine Clinics of Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Nigeria from April to December 2023. Patients were selected through systematic random sampling and randomised into intervention and control group with the intervention group having monthly sessions of motivational interviewing in addition to standard care for hypertension and the control group having standard care only. Data were analysed with Stata with level of significance set at p < 0.05.ResultsThe participants had a mean age of 51.5 ± 10.0 years, were mostly females 156 (62.4%), married 135 (54.0%), and Christians 134 (53.6%). There was no significant difference in the sleep pattern of both the intervention and control groups (χ2 = 1.111 and p = 0.292) at baseline. Post-intervention with MI, there was a significant improvement in sleep quality (p = 0.002) and a corresponding improvement in blood pressure control (p < 0.001) of patients in the intervention group compared to controls.ConclusionThe use of motivational interviewing led to a significant improvement in sleep quality and a corresponding improvement in blood pressure control. Motivational interviewing should be employed by physicians and other health workers during sleep prescription counselling.

The effect of Benson's sedation on the sleep quality of hospitalized elderly: A randomized controlled trial

The present study aims to determine the effect of Benson's sedation on the sleep quality of hospitalized elderly. This experimental study employed a simple random method to assign participants to two test groups of 34 individuals and a control group of 34 individuals. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was the data collection tool. In the test group, the researcher administered Benson's relaxation technique in four sessions, each lasting 10 minutes, under the supervision of a physician. The control group received only routine interventions. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 21, employing descriptive statistics (including tables, means, and standard deviations [SDs]) and inferential statistics (paired t-test and independent t-test). In the experimental group, the mean sleep quality score before the intervention was 9.48 (SD=3.52), which improved to 7.59 (SD=3.17) after the intervention. A paired t-test revealed a significant improvement in sleep quality within this group (P&lt;0.01). In the control group, the mean sleep quality score was 9.21 (SD=3.21) before the intervention and 7.97 (SD=2.89) after the intervention; however, the paired t-test did not show a significant difference (P=0.6). The results of this study indicate that the Benson relaxation technique significantly improved the sleep quality of hospitalized patients. Consequently, this non-pharmacological, cost-effective intervention is a valuable addition to nursing care. Non-pharmacological methods, such as relaxation techniques, are recognized as effective adjunctive treatments in nursing practice.

Effect of Mat Pilates intervention on sleep quality in adolescent girls: A single blinded randomised controlled trial

BackgroundPilates, a low-to-moderate intensity workout provides an alternative to traditional methods that stimulate both the mind and the body. Adolescent girls often experience sub optimal sleep quality, especially on school days, posing significant health risks. This study aims to investigate the effects of Pilates on the sleep quality of adolescent females. MethodsA single-blinded Randomized Controlled Trial was conducted at a Physiotherapy OPD. Eligible adolescent girls (aged 10–19) with PSQI scores exceeding 5 were enrolled. Sixty participants were allocated each to Group A (Control) or Group B (Mat Pilates) via convenience sampling. Parental consent and participant assent were obtained. Group A maintained daily activities with ergonomic exercises, while Group B underwent Mat Pilates training three times weekly for eight weeks. Data were collected at baseline, at the end of 4th and 8th week. ResultBetween-group analysis at the 4th and 8th weeks showed significant differences. Post hoc analysis with Bonferroni adjustment revealed notable improvements from baseline to both time points (p < 0.05). The experimental group achieved a 45.14 % greater reduction in Global PSQI score compared to the control group, indicating significant improvements in sleep quality. The experimental group also showed a substantial 53.39 % improvement in sleep duration and a significant 65 % reduction in sleep latency, outperforming the control group. ConclusionThis study reveals promising improvements in sleep quality, highlighting the potential benefits of Pilates for this demographic. This can be a valuable approach to enhancing sleep quality among adolescent girls, potentially contributing to their overall health and life quality.

The Effect Of Implementing A Bundle Of Evidence-Based Pain Management On Patient's Perception Of Pain And Clinical Outcomes

Background: Evidence-based practice in pain management has been shown to provide improvements in patient outcomes. Aim: this study aimed to determine the effect of implementing a bundle of evidence-based pain management to improve patients' perception of pain and clinical outcomes. Research design: A quasi-experimental research design was used. Setting: the study was conducted on 3 surgical units (general, orthopedics and oncology surgery in Sayed Galal Hospital Sampling: a purposive sample of 70 adult patients was included in the study. Tools of data collection: four tools were used, first tool: a structured interviewing questionnaire. Second tool: Physiological parameters data. Third tool: Pain assessment by using The McGill Pain Questionnaire. Fourth tool: Groningen Sleep quality Scale. Result: the main results revealed that there was a statistically significant improvement in BP, HR, RR and Pso2 in the study group after intervention. There was statistically significant reducing total pain severity in the study group as well compared to control group with p-value = (0.01*). There was a highly statistically significant improvement of sleep quality at 3rd day postoperatively, with a p-value of 0.001* among study group. Conclusion: the implementation of a bundle of evidence-based pain management had a positive effect on reducing pain intensity, improvement of physiological parameters and sleep quality among the study group compared to control group. Recommendations: this study recommended that, reduplication this study in a large probability sample, using a bundle of evidence-based pain management in a different-surgical-wards. Set pain assessment scale as a part of a routine measurement like a vital-signs in surgical units

Sleep and health improvement programme (SHIP) for patients with prostate cancer and caregivers

AbstractObjectiveThe objective of this study is to determine whether a sleep and health improvement programme (SHIP) to promote healthy sleep, eating and physical activity would be feasible, acceptable and have a positive impact on lifestyle behaviours for prostate cancer survivors and caregivers.MethodsWe recruited 50 participants for a single group 3‐month pre‐post pilot study. The SHIP intervention included (1) website about sleep, nutrition and physical activity (≥1 view/week), (2) two email newsletters with goal‐setting exercises and resources and (3) midpoint health coach call. The primary outcome was changes in validated sleep scales; secondary outcomes included changes in diet, physical activity and concentration from baseline to 3 months.ResultsOf 50 participants enrolled, median age was 65, 30% were Black and 8% were Hispanic. Thirty‐four patients and 7 family caregivers completed the pilot study (82%). Following the intervention, we observed a statistically significant improvement in the Sleep Hygiene Index (pre: 15, post: 13, p &lt; 0.01), and a trend toward lower Insomnia Severity Index (pre: 12, post: 9, p = 0.07). There were no statistically significant improvements in sleep quality or physical activity, but there were improvements in healthy eating (e.g., increase in cruciferous vegetables and reduction in dairy) and in fatigue‐related problems and concentration. Exit interview feedback was positive.ConclusionsA web‐based sleep and healthy lifestyle programme for patients with prostate cancer and their caregivers is feasible and acceptable. A randomized controlled trial is planned to test whether a refined SHIP improves sleep and lifestyle in patients with prostate cancer and caregivers.

Italian survey on the effectiveness of halotherapy administered via the Aerosal® system.

Over the years, halotherapy (HT) has shown promise in the treatment of respiratory and dermatological diseases. However, its widespread acceptance remains limited due to the absence of official guidelines and awareness among doctors and patients. Among the patented systems of administration of HT, Aerosal® is the only one consisting of 3 certified elements, all classified as Medical Devices Class 2A: a dry saline dispenser called Aerosalmed®, a 30 g salt dose named AeroNaCL®, and a confined environment in marine multilayered construction with walls coated in salt called Aerosal®. We conducted an online survey of subjects undergoing Aerosal® HT across 80 Italian centers. Participants provided demographic data, reasons for choosing HT, and perceptions of its effectiveness. Following 10 treatment sessions, they rated improvements in various aspects, such as skin condition, sleep quality, relaxation, and respiratory benefits. Most participants learned about HT through word of mouth rather than medical advice, suggesting a discrepancy between patient satisfaction and medical endorsement. Over 92% reported resolution of their health issues post-treatment, with significant improvements in sleep quality and relaxation, particularly in adults. The therapy showed promise in various conditions, including respiratory and skin disorders, possibly attributed to stress reduction and intrinsic therapeutic effects. Despite skepticism, HT administered through the Aerosal® system has shown therapeutic potential. The psycho-physical benefits observed in patients advocate for greater consideration of this therapy by clinicians, emphasizing its safety, tolerability, and absence of notable side effects. In this context, standardized systems like Aerosal® are crucial for ensuring treatment safety and efficacy.

Effects of global postural re-education on stress and sleep quality in health sciences female students: a randomized controlled trial pilot study.

The purpose of this study was to determine, for the first time, whether the application of a self-management program with global postural re-education (GPR) influences stress and sleep quality in female health science students. In this randomized controlled trial pilot study, forty-one female health science students were randomized into a control group (n=21) and an intervention group (n=20). Participants underwent 8 weeks of self-management with and without GPR, after familiarization and therapy training. Outcomes included the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) questionnaire and cortisol levels in saliva measured with the "CORTISOL Saliva ELISA SA E-6000" kit. Sleep quality was measured with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and a Sleep Diary; total sleep time (TST), sleep onset latency (SOL), wakefulness after sleep onset (WASO), sleep efficiency (SE), and perceived sleep quality or satisfaction were assessed using the Likert scale. After self-treatment with GPR, participants in the intervention group showed lower cortisol levels compared to the control group (p = 0.041). Additionally, the intervention group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in sleep quality according to their PSQI (p = 0.010), STAI (p=0.043), SOL (p = 0.049), and SE (p = 0.002). This study shows that self-management through GPR helps reduce stress and improve sleep quality in female health science students. https://clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier NCT05488015.

Walking Interventions and Sleep Quality of Persons Living With Dementia and Their Family Caregivers: Effects of Different Walking Companions.

To examine the effect of walking interventions on sleep quality of persons with dementia (PWD) and their caregivers (dyads), and how different companions affect results. Forty-five dyads were divided into three groups: a control group and two experimental groups (one with a care attendant, one with a family caregiver). The two experimental groups engaged in 120 minutes of walking per week for 24 weeks. A significant improvement in sleep quality was observed among PWD in the family caregiver group (Wald χ2 = 4.55, p = 0.033), whereas there was no improvement in the care attendant group. A slight improvement in sleep quality of family caregivers was also found. Findings suggest the importance of creating individualized walking activity plans for dyads, incorporating trust and rapport-building strategies to improve sleep quality. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 50(8), 46-56.].

Effect of inhaled aromatherapy on sleep quality in critically ill patients: A systematic review and network meta-analysis.

This study aimed to compare the effect of inhaled aromatherapy using various essential oils on the sleep quality of critically ill patients. Inhalation of essential oils significantly promotes the physiological and psychological health of patients in intensive care units (ICUs). However, research identifying and ranking the effects of different essential oils on the sleep quality of critically ill patients is lacking. This study followed the PRISMA Extension Statement for Reporting of Systematic Reviews Incorporating Network Meta-Analyses of Health Care Interventions (PRISMA-NMA) guidelines. A comprehensive search of five databases (Embase, MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, CINAHL and PsycINFO) was conducted from their inception to March 15, 2023 (with an additional eligible study included dated August 14, 2023). Google Scholar was used as a supplementary method. Frequentist NMA was used to determine the effects of various essential oils. Certainty of evidence (CoE) was assessed using Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis (CINeMA). A total of 11 trials involving 690 critically ill patients were included in the analysis. The NMA of inhaled aromatherapy revealed that the combination of lavender, Matricaria recutita, and neroli essential oils (ratio 6:2:0.5) resulted in the most significant improvement in sleep quality compared to usual care, followed by Rosa damascene, peppermint, Citrus aurantium, pure sunflower oil and lavender oil alone. The overall CoE for the results was rated as low. The results of this study indicate that a combination of lavender, Matricaria recutita and neroli essential oils significantly positively affected sleep quality among critically ill patients. Despite the low quality of evidence, inhaled aromatherapy is non-invasive and easy to use. Inhaled aromatherapy can effectively improve sleep quality among critically ill patients. No patient or public contribution applies to this work. The study protocol was registered to the PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (protocol number CRD42023433194).

Development, Validation, and feasibility of Integrated Yoga module on Anidra (Insomnia)

Background: Insomnia is described as "a complaint of trouble beginning or maintaining sleep associated with daily effects that are not attributed to environmental factors or insufficient chances to sleep." According to the study, Yoga was shown to be safe and effective in improving sleep for individuals experiencing insomnia (Anidra). In this study, an Integrated Yoga Module (IYM) was specifically designed to manage Anidra (Insomnia). Method: The IYM was designed following a thorough review of classical yoga texts and prior research. Twenty-five yoga experts meeting the inclusion criteria were selected to validate the content of the IYM. The IYM comprised a total of 42 yoga practices, with each practice undergoing discussion and evaluation, categorized as (1) effective, (2) useful but less effective, or (3) not effective. The Content Validity Ratio (CVR) was calculated using Lawshe's formula. The feasibility of the IYM was assessed by experts using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). To evaluate the feasibility of the intervention, we applied the developed program to 40 participants (20 in each group) in control and experimental groups for 45 days, with sessions conducted five days a week. Result: Data analysis revealed that, among the 22 IYM practices, 17 demonstrated significant content validity with a CVR exceeding the 0.44 cut-off, as determined by Lawshe's formula. Conversely, five yoga practices fell below the 0.44 CVR and were therefore rejected. Moreover, a significant improvement in sleep quality was observed in the experimental group. Conclusion: The yoga module designed and validated for the management of insomnia or A nidra is acknowledged as well accepted with good content validity and an efficacious program for insomnia management.

Mixture of Rhodiola rosea and Nelumbo nucifera Extracts Ameliorates Sleep Quality of Adults with Sleep Disturbance.

Chronic sleep disturbance affects daily functioning, leading to decreased concentration, fatigue, and higher healthcare costs. Traditional insomnia medications are often associated with adverse side effects. This study investigated the efficacy of a novel compound derived from Rhodiola rosea and Nelumbo nucifera extracts (named RNE) in improving sleep quality with fewer side effects. The study included individuals between the ages of 20 and 65 with subthreshold insomnia and evaluated the effects of RNE on sleep, fatigue, and quality of life. Participants took 750 mg of RNE daily at bed-time for two weeks. The study used the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), a sleep diary, the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), and the Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) for assessments. Of the 20 participants, 13 completed the study and showed significant improvements in sleep quality. The results showed improvements in ISI and PSQI scores, a 57% reduction in wake-time after sleep onset, and improved sleep efficiency. Although FSS scores remained unchanged, significant improvements were seen in SF-36 physical and mental health scores. The results suggest that RNE is an effective, low-risk option for sleep disturbance, significantly improving sleep quality and overall wellbeing without significant side effects.

Dietary Supplementation with an Extract of Aloysia citrodora (Lemon verbena) Improves Sleep Quality in Healthy Subjects: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Study.

Seventy-one healthy subjects with sleep disturbances participated in a randomized, double-blind controlled trial in which dietary supplementation with an extract of Aloysia citrodora (lemon verbena) (n = 33) or placebo (n = 38) was administered for 90 days. There were between-group differences in favor of the experimental group in the visual analogue scale (VAS) for sleep quality (6.5 ± 1.6 vs. 5.5 ± 2.1, p = 0.021) as well as in the overall score (5.8 ± 2.4, p = 0.008) and scores for sleep latency (1.6 ± 1.0 vs. 1.9 ± 0.7, p = 0.027) and sleep efficiency (84.5 ± 12.8 vs. 79.8 ± 13.6, p = 0.023) in the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Sleep-related variables (latency, efficiency, wakefulness after sleep onset, awakenings) assessed by actigraphy also showed better scores in the experimental group (p = 0.001). Plasma nocturnal melatonin levels also increased significantly in the experimental group (199.7 ± 135.3 vs. 174.7 ± 115.4 pg/mL, p = 0.048). Changes in anthropometric parameters and physical activity levels were not found. In summary, a dietary supplement of lemon verbena administered for 3 months was associated with a significant improvement in sleep quality as compared with placebo in a population of healthy subjects with sleep problems.

Role of Nasal Surgery in Adult Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Systematic Review.

Objective To perform a systematic review to determine if isolated nasal surgery has any impact on subjective or objective parameters in adult obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients. Materials and Methods From December 2022 to March 2023, we conducted a search on the PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Two independent investigators performed a study selection according to the established criteria, as well as data collection, including the study design, the subjective and objective parameters addressed, the type of intervention, and the outcomes, considering the methodological quality and risk of bias. Results In total, 25 studies met the selection criteria, and they showed that there is a significant improvement in sleep quality, sleepiness, nasal resistance, and snoring after isolated nasal surgery. Still, there is no relevant modification of other polysomnographic parameters. It also reduces the required titration pressures of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and increases the duration of its use. Conclusion Isolated nasal surgery is not a primary treatment for OSA. Still, it improves the subjective parameters and can lead to CPAP therapy success by enhancing its effectiveness and long-term compliance.

Effects of 12 weeks of functional and resistance training on stress perception and sleep quality in Bra-zilian older people

The study investigated the effects of a 12-week functional and resistance training program on the perception of stress and sleep quality in Brazilian older people, involving 49 participants. The Perceived Stress in older adults and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used. The training protocol included a general warm-up, resistance and functional training sessions, followed by a cool-down phase, held twice a week, lasting an average of 60 minutes over the 12 weeks. Data analysis was performed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, bootstrapping, t-tests and Pearson correlation, with a significance level of p &lt; 0.05. The results showed a significant reduction in sleep disturbance and total sleep quality score after the intervention. Men initially had lower stress and better sleep quality in some aspects compared to women, while older people between 60 and 69 years old had improvements in sleep quality in certain aspects before and after the intervention, compared to older people aged 70 and over. Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed between the perception of stress and several components of sleep quality, such as subjective quality, duration and total score. In short, the study demonstrated that the exercise program had varying impacts on sleep quality, but not on the perception of stress among the older people, highlighting a significant improvement in sleep quality after the intervention. Keywords: Aging. Exercise Therapy. Sleep Quality. Psychological stress. Physical education.

Effects of Reflexology on Anorexia and Sleep Quality in Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Cancer and associated treatment methods present numerous complications, including anorexia and disturbances in sleep patterns. Consequently, the purpose of this study is to examine the impact of reflexology on the symptoms of anorexia and sleep quality among individuals afflicted with cancer. In this double-blinded randomized clinical trial, a total of 60 patients undergoing chemotherapy at Khansari Hospital, Arak, Iran, were selected using convenience sampling and then assigned to two groups of control and experimental using blocked randomization (30 patients in each group). The sample intervention group received reflexology in an exceedingly 4-week amount (two sessions a week), By contrast, the control group was administered a placebo treatment without exerting any pressure on the reflex points during the same time frame. Sleep quality and anorexia in patients were measured using a Pittsburgh questionnaire and visual analog scale before and right after the intervention. Eventually, the data were analyzed, and we used the tests of central tendency, dispersion, independent- and paired-samples t-tests, and Chi-square. The findings of the study revealed a significant improvement in sleep quality and reduction in anorexia symptoms among patients who received reflexology treatment scores (p < 0.001). Conversely, there was no significant difference in the control group before and after the intervention (without pressure effect on the foot points) (p > 0.05). According to the positive effects on sleep quality and the reduction of anorexia symptoms, it is recommended to incorporate this therapeutic modality along with conventional medication for the treatment of individuals with cancer.

The anti-fatigue and sleep-aiding effects vary significantly among different recipes containing Ganoderma lucidum extracts

AimsThis study aims to delve into the anti-fatigue and sleep-aiding effects of various formulations containing Ganoderma lucidum extracts. Materials and methodsPGB [incorporating Ganoderma lucidum extract (GE), broken Ganoderma lucidum spore powder (GB) and Paecilomyces hepiali mycelium (PH)] and GBS [composed of GE, GB, and Ganoderma sinense powder (GS)] were chosen as representative recipes for this study. Mice were treated with these recipes or key components of Ganoderma lucidum for 14 consecutive days. Subsequently, a weight-bearing swimming experiment was conducted to assess the mice's exhaustion time and evaluate the anti-fatigue properties of the recipes. Sleep-aiding effects were analyzed by measuring the sleep latency and duration. Furthermore, levels of blood lactic acid, serum urea nitrogen, hepatic glycogen, muscle glycogen, and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured in the livers and muscles. Key findingsThe anti-fatigue abilities of the tested mice were significantly improved after treatment with PGB and their sleep quality improved as well with GBS treatment. PGB treatment for 14 days could significantly prolong the exhaustion time in weight-bearing swimming (from 10.1 ± 0.5 min to 15.2 ± 1.3 min). Meanwhile, glycogen levels in the livers and muscles were significantly increased, while the levels of serum lactic acid, serum urea nitrogen, and MDA in the livers and muscles were significantly decreased. In contrast, mice treated with GBS for 14 days experienced significant improvements in sleep quality, with shortened sleep latency (from 6.8 ± 0.7 min to 4.2 ± 0.4 min), extended sleep duration (from 88.3 ± 1.4 min to 152.5 ± 9.3 min), and decreased muscle MDA levels. These results indicated that Ganoderma lucidum extracts can be used for anti-fatigue and or aid in sleeping, depending on how they are prepared and administered. SignificanceThis study provides experimental evidence and theoretical basis for the development of Ganoderma lucidum recipes that are specifically designed to help with anti-fatigue and sleep.

Assessing the Feasibility and Efficacy of Pre-Sleep Dim Light Therapy for Adults with Insomnia: A Pilot Study.

Background: Insomnia is increasingly recognized for its marked impact on public health and is often associated with various adverse health outcomes, including cardiovascular diseases and mental health disorders. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of pre-sleep dim light therapy (LT) as a non-pharmacological intervention for insomnia in adults, assessing its influence on sleep parameters and circadian rhythms. Methods: A randomized, open-label, two-arm clinical trial was conducted over two weeks with 40 participants aged 20-60 years, all of whom had sleep disorders (CRIS, KCT0008501). They were allocated into control and LT groups. The LT group received exposure to warm-colored light, minimizing the blue spectrum, before bedtime. The study combined subjective evaluation via validated, sleep-related questionnaires, objective sleep assessments via actigraphy, and molecular analyses of circadian clock gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Baseline characteristics between the two groups were compared using an independent t-test for continuous variables and the chi-squared test for categorical variables. Within-group differences were assessed using the paired t-test. Changes between groups were analyzed using linear regression, adjusting for each baseline value and body mass index. The patterns of changes in sleep parameters were calculated using a linear mixed model. Results: The LT group exhibited significant improvements in sleep quality (difference in difference [95% CI]; -2.00 [-3.58, -0.43], and sleep efficiency (LT: 84.98 vs. control: 82.11, p = 0.032), and an advanced Dim Light Melatonin Onset compared to the control group (approximately 30 min). Molecular analysis indicated a significant reduction in CRY1 gene expression after LT, suggesting an influence on circadian signals for sleep regulation. Conclusions: This study provides evidence for the efficacy of LT in improving sleep quality and circadian rhythm alignment in adults with insomnia. Despite limitations, such as a small sample size and short study duration, the results underscore the potential of LT as a viable non-pharmacological approach for insomnia. Future research should expand on these results with larger and more diverse cohorts followed over a longer period to validate and further elucidate the value of LT in sleep medicine. Trial registration: The trial was registered with the Clinical Research Information Service (KCT0008501).

A game-based learning approach to sleep hygiene education: a pilot investigation.

Sleep hygiene education (SHE) consists of environmental and behavioral practices primarily intended to reduce sleep problems. Currently considered ineffective as a stand-alone treatment, the manner in which the education is typically delivered may be ineffective for the acquisition of new knowledge. The purpose of this study was to determine if a more engaging teaching medium may improve the efficacy of sleep hygiene education. This study examined the use of game-based learning to teach SHE to individuals with sleep problems. 35 participants played the SHE games for 30 days. Differences in pre- and post-state anxiety and sleep quality measures were examined. Participants had significant improvements in sleep quality and state anxiety after using the app for 30 days, although scores for the majority of patients remained elevated. This pilot investigation provides initial evidence for the efficacy of a game-based approach to SHE.

Comparative Study on the Efficacy of Pregabalin Versus Limaprost in Patients With Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: A Prospective, Randomized Controlled Trial

BackgroundPatients with Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (LSS) typically complain of back pain and leg pain. These symptoms reduce the quality of life and also cause sleep disturbances. This study compares pregabalin and limaprost's efficacy in LSS for pain, disability, quality of life, and sleep, aiming to offer insights for medication selection. MethodsThis study was designed as a prospective, randomized, single-center, single-blinded, clinical superiority trial targeting patients with LSS. For 6 weeks, 111 patients per group were administered medication following a standard regimen, after which patient-reported outcomes were measured. The primary outcome was the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for back and leg pain, and the secondary outcomes included the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions (EQ-5D), and sleep quality. ResultsAfter 6 weeks of medication, there were significant improvements over time in the primary outcome, VAS for back pain and leg pain, in both groups, but no significant difference between the two groups. Similarly, for the secondary outcomes, ODI and EQ-5D, both groups showed significant improvements, yet there was no significant difference between them. In the subgroup analysis targeting poor sleepers (Pittsburgh sleep quality index, PSQI > 5), both groups also exhibited significant improvements in sleep quality, but again, there was no significant difference between the groups. ConclusionsEfficacy of pregabalin, limaprost in back and leg pain, ODI, EQ-5D, and sleep quality, but there was no significant difference between the two groups. Thus, it is advisable to prescribe based on individual drug responses and potential complications.