Significant Reduction In Scores Research Articles

The Efficacy of Brainspotting and Sand Therapy to Reduce Anxiety Symptoms in Children Aged 8-9

This study explored the use of Brainspotting (BSP) in combination with Sand Therapy (ST) for use with 8–to 9-year-old children with anxiety symptoms in a school-based setting. Using the Spence Children's Anxiety Scales (SCAS), The Behavior and Feelings Survey (BFS), and the Top Problems Assessment (TPA), the research project measured anxiety as reported by parents/caregivers and students, internalizing, externalizing, and total concerns as reported by parents/caregivers, teachers, and students, and finally individually identified unique concerns as reported by parents/caregivers, teachers, and students. The researcher collected data from student participants (11) who experienced six sessions of BSP and ST. The quantitative data collected identified project signifiers for future researchers. Outcomes reflected statistical significance of a reduction in anxiety scores for parents in the subscale of generalized anxiety and a significant reduction of scores in children in the subscales of generalized anxiety and separation anxiety. Parents and teachers indicated significantly lower scores in internalizing and total concerns identified across time intervals. All three groups of reporters indicated a significant reduction of top problems identified across time intervals. Outcomes demonstrate the promise of the integrated practice of BSP and ST while laying a framework for future research of this method.

Outcomes associated with functional mobility and pain amelioration in 49 patients after sacroplasty: a single-center study

This study aimed to determine the predictive factors for analgesic reduction and amelioration of mobility following percutaneous sacroplasty in patients with insufficiency fractures or metastatic lesions. A single-center retrospective analysis of 49 patients who underwent percutaneous sacroplasty for insufficiency fractures and sacral pathological lesions was conducted. Visual analog scale (VAS), Functional Mobility Scale (FMS), and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were assessed. All data were accessed immediately before and 1month after the procedure. Thirty-one patients (63.3%) experienced a significant reduction in VAS score, 36 (73.5%) experienced amelioration of FMS, and 20 (40.8%) fell within the ODI at 1month. The mean VAS score was 7.8 (median [min-max]=8 [3-10]) preprocedure and 3.4 (median [min-max]=3 [0-8]) postprocedure. The mean ODI was 0.5 (median [min-max]=0.5 [0.3-0.8]) preprocedure and 0.3 (median [min-max]=0.3 [0-0.7]) postprocedure. The mean FMS was 2.6 (median [min-max]=3 [1-5]) preprocedure and 1.2 (median [min-max]=1 [0-4]) postprocedure. There was a statistically significant increase in VAS amelioration in patients without concomitant vertebroplasty (odds ratio=4.16, interval range [1.09; 15.79], P<0.05). Major complications were not observed. In terms of long-term satisfaction, only two patients reported that they would not undergo the same procedure again. Percutaneous sacroplasty was effective for pain relief, functional outcomes, and short-term satisfaction. The absence of concomitant vertebroplasty was significantly associated with VAS improvements.

Evaluation of the anti-psychotic and neuroprotective properties of &lt;i&gt;Bergenia ciliata &lt;/i&gt;root extract in rat models

Psychosis, a chronic mental illness, can be treated with plants and traditional herbs, which contain phytochemicals and counter oxidants to support body organs and reduce schizophrenia risk. The study aimed to evaluate the anti-psychotic potential of Bergenia ciliata by collecting, authenticating, and preparing a methanolic extract from its roots. Two experimental models were used to simulate psychotic symptoms in rats and assess the extract's influence on movement and activity patterns. The objective parameters included behavioral assessments of stereotypic and locomotor activities to quantify the effects of the extract. Biochemical analysis was conducted on brain tissue homogenates, focusing on glutathione (GSH) estimation, acetylcholinesterase (AchE) activity assay, and TNF-α measurement to evaluate inflammation levels. Histopathological analysis of the brain, particularly the frontal cortex and hippocampus, was also conducted to examine structural changes in brain tissues. Key observations: This analysis provided insights into the neuroprotective effects of the methanolic root extract on critical brain regions implicated in psychotic disorders. The results showed that the apomorphine control group had high stereotypy levels, while the apomorphine + standard drug group showed a significant reduction in stereotypy scores at 60 and 90 minutes. Both dosages of Bergenia ciliata showed significant reductions in stereotypy scores at 60 and 90 minutes, suggesting its potential in mitigating the stereotypy induced by apomorphine. The study also found significant differences in GSH, AchE, and TNF-alpha levels between the normal control (vehicle) and Apomorphine 1.5 mg/kg, the std drug (Haloperidol 1 mg/kg), and Bergenia ciliata (250 and 500 mg/kg). Recordings in an Actophotometer were taken on Days 1, 8, 15, and 23. The data revealed no significant differences between groups, except for the positive control, this exhibited a significant decrease in comparison to the healthy animals, a notable increase in locomotor activity was observed following the administration of diazepam in the B. ciliata group, particularly when contrasted with the positive control group. Additionally, B. ciliata exhibited significant effects on biochemical parameters compared to the positive control. The histology of the brain's cerebellar cortex, hippocampus, and frontal cortex under different conditions showed well-preserved layers and healthy neurons. Diazepam-treated brain showed mild neuronal degeneration with vacuolations and congested blood vessels. Oligodendrocytes and pyramidal cells were less affected, but some neuronal degeneration was evident. Both low and high doses of the test drug maintained normal cortical and hippocampal structure, with healthy neuronal architecture, oligodendrocyte presence, and adequate vascularization. The study suggests that Bergenia ciliata may be an effective anti-psychotic agent, potentially reducing inflammation and enhancing psychotropic effects.

Efficacy of ETB-F01, Heat-Killed Akkermansia muciniphila Strain EB-AMDK19, in Patients with Respiratory Symptoms: A Multicenter Clinical Trial.

Respiratory symptoms are prevalent in the general population, and they are associated with a decline in lung function and increased mortality. The gut-lung connection suggests intestinal dysbiosis may impact lung diseases, with Akkermansia muciniphila showing promise in regulating extraintestinal diseases. However, its application in patients with respiratory symptoms lacks clinical trial evidence. In this randomized, double-blind trial, ETB-F01, containing heat-killed A. muciniphila strain EB-AMDK19, was compared with a placebo in patients experiencing respiratory symptoms for 4 to 12 weeks. The primary outcome was improvement in Breathlessness, Cough, and Sputum Scale (BCSS) score over 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes included lung function, fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnea scale, St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score. The primary analysis was performed in the per-protocol set, with a sensitivity analysis in the full analysis set. In the per-protocol population, 68 participants were randomly assigned to the ETB-F01 group and 65 to the placebo group. ETB-F01 had a superior efficacy over placebo in improving BCSS total scores (between-group difference = -0.8 (95% confidence interval, -1.4--0.3), p-value = 0.004). Specifically, there was a significant reduction in BCSS breathlessness and cough domain scores with ETB-F01. While trends toward improvement in lung function were noted, statistical significance was not achieved. No significant differences were observed in FeNO and other symptom scores (mMRC, SGRQ, and VAS). In safety profile, ETB-F01 did not cause any serious adverse events. These results suggest that ETB-F01 is safe and effective for alleviating respiratory symptoms.

Dexmedetomidine versus hyaluronidase along with lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injection in failed back surgery: a randomized double-blind clinical trial.

Failed back surgery syndrome is a common problem faced by chronic pain management specialists. Steroid-only epidural injections have modest efficacy because of excessive scarring. Epidural hyaluronidase (HA), functions as a depolymerizing agent, successfully breaking down adhesions and collagen bundles, whereas dexmedetomidine (DEX) helps to reduce inflammation. The current study is a randomized, double blind, clinical trial. The study cohort included population with persistent (> 6 months) back and/or radicular lower limb pain after laminectomy. Group I (HA group) received bupivacaine 0.5% (5 mg), triamcinolone 40 mg, sterile saline (2 ml), and HA (1500 IU) instilled in 1 mL of distilled water. Group II (DEX group) received bupivacaine 0.5% (5 mg), triamcinolone 40 mg (1 ml), DEX (0.5 mcg/kg), and sterile saline (2 ml). Both groups showed significant reductions in VAS scores at all follow-ups compared to the pre-injection values. At 6 months, the DEX group experienced a significantly greater reduction in pain scores than the HA group (P = 0.003). In terms of the MODI, both groups showed significant reductions in disability scores at all follow-ups relative to the pre-injection values. The DEX group showed greater improvement in MODI values than the HA group. No significant complications were reported. Both DEX and HA yielded significant improvements in pain and disability scores compared with pre-injection levels. The DEX group showed a more substantial and long-term reduction in both pain scores and disability index than the HA group.

Implementing group therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder within a primary care setting: A pilot study

BackgroundPosttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with comorbid psychiatric and medical conditions and high rates of medical service utilization. Given that PTSD is highly prevalent in the primary care setting, group therapy delivered within this setting has the potential to treat large numbers of patients. To date, few studies have examined the feasibility or effectiveness of group therapy for PTSD within primary care. MethodsA pilot study of a PTSD group therapy intervention based on the Trauma Information Group model was conducted in a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC). Across 9 cohorts, 32 individuals with PTSD completed 8–10 group therapy sessions. Self-reported PTSD severity was assessed using the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) at baseline and post-treatment. ResultsFifty percent of participants had a PTSD treatment response (PCL-5 score reduction ≥10) following group therapy and paired t-tests demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in PCL-5 scores from pre- to post-treatment. Patient demographic characteristics and psychiatric comorbities were not associated with treatment response. LimitationsThe small sample size, demographic characteristics, and FQHC setting potentially limit the generalizability of these findings. Treatment dropout rates and associated factors also were not examined. ConclusionsThe Trauma Information Group treatment for PTSD was feasible to implement within a low resourced primary care setting and led to improvement in PTSD symptoms in this pilot study. These findings suggest that offering group therapy for PTSD within primary care could improve access to effective treatment and warrant future research to examine feasibility and effectiveness in this setting.

Effectiveness of a combination of laccase and green coffee extract on oral malodor: a comparative, randomized, controlled, evaluator-blind, parallel-group trial

Oral malodor negatively impacts a person's quality of life and may affect up to 50% of the population. The aim of this randomized, placebo and no-product controlled, evaluator-blind, proof-of-concept study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the single use of two experimental lozenges containing the laccase enzyme and green coffee extract (with and without flavor) in reducing intrinsic oral malodor. Following 12-16 h of avoidance of oral hygiene,156 generally healthy subjects presented at screening and baseline visits with a mean organoleptic odor intensity (OI) score of ⩾2 and an OralChromaTMreading of ⩾125 parts per billion (ppb) hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas and were randomly assigned to receive either one of the two experimental lozenges, a placebo lozenge, or no-product. Following the supervised use of the assigned products, subjects' oral malodor was evaluated using OI assessments and OralChromaTMmeasurement for volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) immediately following product use (approximately 5 min), and at 30 min, 1 h, 2 h, 3 h and 4 h. The two experimental lozenges, with and without flavor, showed significant reductions in OI scores compared with the placebo and no-product groups at all time points (p< 0.001). At 5 min post-product use, the experimental lozenges, with and without flavor, were significantly better than the no-product group in reducing the VSCs (p< 0.04). The results of individual VSC components (hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan and dimethyl sulfide) were variable; both experimental lozenges notably reduced hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan levels in most post-use assessments. Four minor adverse events were reported, none of which were directly linked to the product. In conclusion, the experimental lozenges, whether flavored or not, were safe and effective in reducing oral malodor over a span of 4 h, based on organoleptic OI scores.Clinical Trial No: NCT05950529.

Impact of Adlay-Based Formula on Pain and Discomfort in Women with Dysmenorrhea: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Primary dysmenorrhea, a highly prevalent condition that significantly impacts women's daily activities and quality of life, occurs without underlying pelvic pathological changes. Conventional treatments, such as warm water therapy, provide temporary relief; however, more effective interventions are needed. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an Adlay-based formula in reducing dysmenorrhea symptoms through randomized controlled trials. A total of 69 participants were randomly assigned to either the Adlay-based formula group (n = 35) or the placebo group (n = 34). Baseline characteristics, including age, age of menarche, dysmenorrhea onset, menstrual duration, BMI, blood pressure, and heart rate, were comparable between groups. The primary outcomes were measured using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for dysmenorrhea, pain assessment scales, the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ), and serum levels of inflammatory biomarkers (PGE2, PGF2α, IL-6, Hs-CRP). The intervention group showed a significant reduction in VAS scores at both the first treatment and at the end of the study compared to baseline and the placebo group. Pain assessments indicated improvements in persistent pain, dull pain, exhaustion, nausea/vomiting, lower abdominal swelling, back pain, diarrhea, and cold sweats. Additionally, biomarker analysis revealed significant reductions in PGE2, PGF2α, and Hs-CRP levels in the intervention group, with no significant change in IL-6 levels. The Adlay-based formula effectively alleviated dysmenorrhea symptoms, improved pain and discomfort, and reduced inflammatory biomarkers compared to placebo. These findings suggested that the formula could serve as a promising alternative for managing primary dysmenorrhea.

A Case Series Report on the Effect of Tofacitinib on Joint Inflammation and Gut Microbiota Composition in Psoriatic Arthritis Patients Naive to Biologic Agents.

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a complex condition within the Spondyloarthritis (SpA) group. Recent studies have focused on the important role of the intestinal microbiota in maintaining immunological homeostasis, highlighting how intestinal dysbiosis may act as a trigger for autoimmune diseases. Tofacitinib is a Janus kinase inhibitor (JAK-i) with proven efficacy for the treatment of both rheumatoid arthritis and PsA. However, there is a lack of data on its ability to reduce joint remission through ultrasonography (US) and the effects it might have on the composition of the gut microbiota. Here, we present a case series of seven bio-naïve PsA patients who received tofacitinib treatment and were followed up for 12 months. The clinical response was assessed using validated scores (DAPSA, ASDAS, and BASDAI), laboratory tests, and US assessment of the target joint and enthesis. Finally, we evaluated changes in the composition of the intestinal microbiota using next-generation sequencing analysis of fecal samples. The patients in the study showed a significant improvement in all clinical scores used; this improvement was also confirmed by a significant reduction in the US synovitis scores. The data on the microbiota analysis suggested that the effectiveness of tofacitinib in ameliorating PsA activity was associated with a relevant modification of some gut bacterial lineages. No cases of severe adverse effects were reported. Treatment with tofacitinib proved to be effective, safe and capable of varying the composition of the gut microbiota by selecting bacterial strains considered beneficial in immune modulation.

Modified Kasai operation combined with autologous bone marrow mononuclear cell infusion for biliary atresia

AimTo evaluate the safety and outcomes of modified Kasai operation combined with autologous bone marrow mononuclear cell (BMMNC) infusion for biliary atresia (BA).MethodsA matched control study was conducted between January 2015 and December 2021. Ten consecutive children with biliary atresia (BA) who underwent the modified Kasai operation combined with autologous BMMNC infusion (cell therapy group) and ten children who had only the modified Kasai operation (control group) were included in the study. The Kasai operation was performed with two modifications: partial exteriorization of the liver, and encirclement with lateral retraction of two hepatic pedicles to facilitate the removal of fibrotic tissue.Bone marrow was harvested through anterior iliac crest under general anesthesia then a modified Kasai operation was performed. After processing, bone marrow mononuclear cells were infused through the umbilical vein at the end of the operation.Serum bilirubin, albumin, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, and prothrombin time were monitored at baseline, six months, twelve months, and the last follow-up (4.5 years) after the operation. In addition, esophagoscopy and liver biopsies were performed on patients whose parents agreed. Mixed-effects analysis was used to evaluate the changes in Pediatric End-Stage Liver Disease (PELD) scores.ResultsThere were no intraoperative or postoperative complications related to the operation or cell infusion. The average infused BMMNC and CD34 + cell counts per kg bodyweight were 85.5 ± 56.0 × 106/kg and 10.0 ± 3.6 × 106 for the injection, respectively. Following the intervention, all ten patients in the cell therapy group survived, with a mean follow-up duration of 4.5 ± 0.9 years. Meanwhile, three patients in the control group died due to end-stage liver failure, with a mean follow-up time of 4.3 ± 0.9 years. Liver function of the cell therapy group was maintained or improved after the operation and cell infusion, as assessed by biochemical tests. The disease severity reduced markedly in the CT group compared to the control group, with a significant reduction in PELD scores (p < 0.05).ConclusionAutologous BMMNC administration combined with Kasai operation for BA is safe and may maintain or improve liver function in the studied patients.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05517317 on August 26th, 2022.

Efficacy and Safety of Optilume Drug-Coated Balloon for Urethral Stricture Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The Optilume drug-coated balloon (DCB) (North Plymouth, USA) is a novel treatment option for urethral stricture disease that combines mechanical dilation with localized delivery of paclitaxel, an antiproliferative drug aimed at reducing recurrence rates by inhibiting scar tissue formation. This systematic review and meta-analysis, conducted using studies published in the last 10 years up to November 2024, assessed the efficacy and safety of Optilume DCB across seven studies involving 457 patients. Key outcomes included significant reductions in symptom scores, as measured by the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), and improvements in urinary flow rates (QMax). The recurrence-free rate was approximately 80.83%, suggesting that Optilume offers durable symptom relief. The complication rate, calculated as a weighted average across studies, was low at 9.5%, with most adverse events being mild and temporary, including dysuria and urinary tract infections. These findings support Optilume DCB as a promising minimally invasive alternative to standard treatments, offering durable outcomes with a favorable safety profile. Further randomized trials with longer follow-ups are recommended to confirm these benefits in diverse patient populations.

Pharmacological Evaluation of the Traditional Brazilian Medicinal Plant Monteverdia ilicifolia in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: Preliminary Results of a Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Clinical Trial.

The present work aimed to compare the effects of the standardized dry extract from the leaves of Monteverdia ilicifolia, popularly known as "espinheira-santa", with omeprazole in the management of dyspepsia related to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). A double-blind, randomized, non-inferiority and double-dummy clinical trial was conducted. In total, 86 patients with GERD symptoms were randomized into three groups: Omeprazol (20 mg), M. ilicifolia (400 mg), or M. ilicifolia (860 mg). Capsules were provided by SUSTENTEC®, Pato Bragato, Brazil. It was requested that the participants take three capsules before breakfast and dinner for 4 weeks. Clinical outcomes were obtained at the beginning and end of the study, with GERD symptoms (QS-GERD), the impact of heartburn symptoms on quality of life (HBQOL), and medical records. Overall, 75.6% of the participants showed adherence without any differences among the experimental groups. All groups had significant reductions in both QS-GERD and HBQOL scores. Omeprazole and 400 and 860 mg of M. ilicifolia decreased the QS-GERD total scores at the endpoint compared to the baseline (Chi-square = 129.808; p < 0.0001), as well as individual item scores, such as heartburn intensity (Chi-square = 93.568, p < 0.0001) and heartburn after meals (Chi-square = 126.426, p < 0.0001). There were no differences among the experimental groups after the intervention. Our results suggest that capsules with a standardized dry extract from the leaves of M. ilicifolia at a dosage of 400 or 860 mg are non-inferior to omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor.

Effectiveness of Cannabis Oil as an Adjuvant Therapy in Patients with Severe Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized, Double-Blind Study

Purpose: The removal of cannabis from Thailand's narcotic drug list presents both opportunities and challenges for medical use. The effectiveness of cannabis oil in treating severe knee osteoarthritis in patients awaiting total knee arthroplasty was evaluated in this study. Methods: Thirty-two patients with severe knee osteoarthritis, unresponsive to conservative treatment, were enrolled and divided into two equal groups. The control and experimental groups received syrup and cannabis oil, respectively, at night for 30 days. Pain and quality of life (QOL) were assessed using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), respectively. Liver and kidney functions were also assessed. Results: The experimental group showed a significant reduction in NRS scores compared to the control group (p = 0.00015). Significant improvements were observed in KOOS subscales for pain, activities of daily living (ADL), and QOL (p = 0.01). However, the symptoms subscale improvement was not significant (p = 0.14). When comparing the KOOS subscales, no significant differences were observed between the groups (p &gt; 0.05). Liver and kidney function remained stable in both groups. Despite these improvements, the changes did not reach a minimal clinically important difference (MCID), indicating limited clinical perceptibility to the patients. Conclusions: Cannabis oil was associated with significant improvements in pain, ADL, and QOL in severe knee osteoarthritis. Although improvements did not meet MCID thresholds, observed benefits suggest potential for pain management. Larger controlled studies are recommended to confirm its clinical efficacy in pain management.

Short-Term Efficacy of Repetitive Peripheral Magnetic Stimulation for Chronic Low Back Pain: A Double-Blinded Randomized Control Trial

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation (rPMS) in alleviating pain and enhancing functional recovery in patients with chronic low back pain. Materials and Methods: The present study was a double-blinded randomized controlled trial conducted in 30 patients aged 18 to 60 years with chronic low back pain at the outpatient clinic of Department of Rehabilitation Medicine. Patients were randomly assigned to the rPMS group or the sham treatment group, receiving one session per week for three weeks. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores were assessed before treatment, after each session, and one-week post-treatment. The Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were evaluated before and one week after treatment. Results: Baseline characteristics and scores for VAS, RMDQ, and ODI, were comparable between groups. VAS scores improved significantly in both groups at one-week post-treatment, with the rPMS group showing better outcomes. The mean VAS score decreased in the rPMS group after the second and third sessions was 2.5 (SD 1.6) and 2.5 (SD 1.4), respectively. A linear mixed-effects model indicated a significant reduction in VAS scores by the third session. The median improvement in RMDQ was 3.0 (IQR 3.0) for the rPMS group versus 2.0 (IQR 2.0) for the sham group (p=0.030). ODI scores improved by 5.6 (SD 3.5) in the rPMS group compared to 2.4 (SD 1.8) in the sham group (p=0.048). Conclusion: rPMS, combined with exercise and behavioral modifications, reduces pain and disability in chronic low back pain patients. However, the change in VAS scores did not exceed the minimal clinically important difference (MCID), suggesting limited clinical impact.

LUMIDIAL: feasibility of light therapy in hemodialysis, pilot study and real-life experience

Sleep and mood disorders are common in hemodialysis, but the effect of light therapy remains unknown in this population. We conducted a randomized, controlled, open-label pilot trial comparing two group of either 30 minutes of light therapy three times a week, or no exposure. The primary endpoint was change in sleep quality (PSQI) after five weeks of light therapy, with change in mood (DASS-21) as a secondary endpoint. We added the description of the same criteria in a prospective, non-randomized, real-life post-trial cohort. We included 28 analyzable patients in the pilot study. Light therapy had no significant effect on PSQI reduction (p = 0.496). There was a trend towards a reduction in depression (-6.2 [95% CI, -12.5 to -0.05], p = 0.058). In the real-life cohort, out of 27 patients, 12 had a significant reduction in depression score (≥ 6 points). Light therapy performed in hemodialysis three times a week appears to have no effect on sleep quality, but could reduce depressive states. The technique is easy to implement, well tolerated and inexpensive. A multicenter randomized trial against the sham device will be needed to validate its effect on depression.

Comparative Efficacy of Antipsychotic Medication for Stereotypic Behavior in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background: Stereotypic movements in autism form core symptoms under the rubric of repetitive and restricted patterns of behavior. Aim: The systematic review was aimed to find which antipsychotic has better efficacy in treating stereotypic behavior in autism spectrum disorder. Methods: We searched for journal publications in the English from PubMed and Cochrane databases (CENTRAL), January 1992–June 2024, for randomized controlled trials that compared antipsychotics with a placebo of at least 6 weeks’ trial, with the outcome measure being a change in stereotypy score. Quality assessment of the included studies in the meta-analysis was done using Cochrane risk of bias tool version 2. We followed PRISMA guidelines for systematic review. The mean difference in change of stereotypy symptoms score was calculated between antipsychotic and placebo participants along with 95% confidence interval (CI) using the random-effects model. Results: 146 studies were screened, and 25 studies were deemed eligible to retrieve full-length articles for review. A total of nine studies were included in the systematic review that had used aripiprazole, risperidone, or lurasidone as an antipsychotic. Six studies (n = 726) that had all data on mean difference in stereotypy scores on the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC)-Stereotypy subscale and four studies (n = 554) that reported stereotypy scores using Children’s Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (CY-BOCS)-Compulsions subscale were included in the meta-analysis. Antipsychotics showed a significant reduction in ABC-Stereotypy scores (−1.84 [−2.84, −0.85; 95% CI], Z = 3.83, P &lt; 0.001) with moderate heterogeneity between the studies (I 2 = 53%). Whereas, antipsychotics did not show significant improvement in compulsions as measured on CY-BOCS (−0.87 [−1.89, 0.16; 95% CI], Z = 1.65, P = 0.10). Conclusion: Stereotypy in autism is difficult to measure, and no uniform measure exists. Trials are limited to short duration and limited to few antipsychotics. Among antipsychotics, risperidone has robust efficacy in reducing stereotypic behaviors.

Effects of chamomile oil inhalation on sleep quality in young adults with insomnia: A randomized controlled trial.

Insomnia is characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying sleep, or both. Aromatherapy is a commonly used complementary and alternative medicine practice by persons with insomnia. Previous studies have shown that use of chamomile oil during massage therapy improves the quality of sleep (QoS). However, to our knowledge, no randomized controlled trials have examined the effects of chamomile oil inhalation on the treatment of insomnia. The present study evaluated the effect of chamomile oil inhalation on QoS and insomnia severity in persons with insomnia. A total of 80-participants ages 18-35 with insomnia were randomly allocated to aromatherapy group (AG; n = 40) or a control group (CG; n = 40). Those in the AG group received chamomile oil inhalation, while those in the CG engaged in their normal routine for 10minutes a day, daily for 15 days. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) were administered before and after the intervention. Within-group analysis showed a significant reduction both in PSQI and ISI scores among those in the AG (P < 0.001 for both scores), whereas the CG reported a significant reduction in PSQI score (P = 0.033) and no significant changes in ISI score (P = 0.068). The between groups analysis after the intervention demonstrated a significant reduction in PSQI and ISI scores in the AG group (P < 0.001 for both) compared to the CG. No participant in either group reported adverse events during or after the study. Fifteen days of chamomile oil inhalation before bedtime reduced insomnia severity and enhanced the quality of sleep for young adults suffering from insomnia. Further studies are needed to replicate the results of this study using an active control group.

A COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN DRY NEEDLING AND KINETIC CHAIN ACTIVATION TECHNIQUE WITH SPECIFIED EXERCISE PROGRAMME IN PAINFUL ARC SYNDROME

Objective: Many researcher have reported that painful arc syndrome arises from multiple lesion i. e. minor tear of supraspinatus tendon, supraspinatus tendinitis, calcified deposit in the supraspinatus tendon, subacromial bursitis, crack fracture of greater tuberosity of humerus and bicipital tenosynovitis. In this study, dry needling and KCAT technique with specific exercise programme has been done to reduce pain and improve functioning and their by prevent shoulder pathologies. The objective of the study is. 1) To evaluate the effectiveness of kinetic chain activation in painful arc syndrome. 2) To evaluate the effectiveness of dry needling therapy in painful arc syndrome. 3) To evaluate the effectiveness of a specific exercise program. Methods: 50 patient diagnosed with painful arc syndrome by the physiotherapy department orthopedic department OPD will be initially assessed for the inclusion or exclusion criteria. prior to the treatment procedure patients are oriented to the study and taken informed consent, patient is divided in to two groups(Group A and Group B) and both groups will be assessed for the pre-test parameter. Outcome measure – shoulder pain and disability scale and goniometry is used for measuring pre-test and post-test. Results: The study was significant in reducing pain level and improving function with the pretest. At the end of 6 w treatment program with, both group A (dry needling) and group B(KCAT) showed improvement in painful arc syndrome. Based on results, the study supports research hypothesis that there was a significant improvement in ROM and significant reduction in SPADI score associated with painful arc syndrome. Patient participated in group B shows more significant changes. Conclusion: The study showed that significant improvement in symptoms of group B as compared to group A from the initial level to week 6. At the end of 6 w training programme both group A and group B Shows improvements in symptoms but the result of study supports that group B (KCAT CONCEPT-finger fanning technique) B is more efficient compare to group A(dry needling).

A Double-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial: Can Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy Be a Novel Method for Treating Chronic Rhinosinusitis?

Background and Objectives: Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy offers a promising approach to treating inflammatory diseases. Its notable anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects and enhancement of microcirculation in the nasal mucosa make it a valuable treatment option. Despite its potential, the use of PEMF for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is still in its early stages, with limited exploration of its effectiveness. This study aimed to assess the impact of PEMF on alleviating symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, sinus opacifications, and ostiomeatal complex issues associated with CRS. Materials and Methods: Forty-seven patients of both genders with CRS, aged 19 to 40 years, were involved in this study. The participants were randomly assigned to either a magnetic or a control group. The magnetic group underwent a 10 min PEMF session with a 20-gauss magnetic field strength at 7 Hz thrice a week for a month. The control group received the same PEMF application as an inactive device. Before and after the intervention, researchers assessed fatigue levels with a visual analog fatigue scale (VAFS), headache intensity via a numerical pain-rating scale, and the status of sinus opacifications and ostiomeatal complex obstructions by computerized tomography (CT). Results: The study findings showed a significant reduction in fatigue and headache scores in the magnetic group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, there was a notable improvement in sinus opacifications and ostiomeatal complex obstructions among participants who received PEMF therapy. Conclusions: PEMF therapy effectively reduces fatigue, headaches, and sinus opacifications in CRS patients, suggesting its potential for inclusion in CRS management guidelines to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. The results of this study indicate that PEMF represents a noninvasive and cost-effective approach for treating adults with mild-to-moderate CRS.

Efficacy of Oral Hygiene Aids in Gingivitis Management: A Comparative Study of Manual and Electric Toothbrushes, Dental Floss, and Mouthwash

ABSTRACT Background: Gingivitis is a prevalent oral health issue characterized by inflammation of the gums, often resulting from inadequate plaque removal. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 120 participants diagnosed with gingivitis, aged 18 to 65 years. Participants were divided into four groups: Group A used a manual toothbrush, Group B used an electric toothbrush, Group C used dental floss in addition to manual brushing, and Group D used mouthwash in addition to manual brushing. The study duration was eight weeks, with gingival index (GI) scores recorded at baseline, four weeks, and eight weeks. Plaque index (PI) and bleeding on probing (BOP) were also assessed as secondary outcomes. Results: At the end of eight weeks, Group B (electric toothbrush) showed the most significant reduction in gingival index scores (mean reduction: 1.2, P &lt; 0.01), followed by Group D (mouthwash) with a mean reduction of 1.0 (P &lt; 0.05). Group C (dental floss) exhibited a moderate reduction (mean reduction: 0.8, P &lt; 0.05), while Group A (manual toothbrush) had the least improvement (mean reduction: 0.5, P = 0.08). Plaque index and bleeding on probing results followed a similar trend, with the electric toothbrush group demonstrating superior outcomes. Conclusion: The study concludes that electric toothbrushes are more effective in managing gingivitis compared to manual toothbrushes, dental floss, and mouthwash.