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BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies Jan 2024As cancer and its therapy comes with a wide range of negative effects, people look for options to mitigate these effects. Reflexology is among the options of...
BACKGROUND
As cancer and its therapy comes with a wide range of negative effects, people look for options to mitigate these effects. Reflexology is among the options of complementary medicine.
METHOD
In March 2022 a systematic search was conducted searching five electronic databases (Embase, Cochrane, PsychInfo, CINAHL and Medline) to find studies concerning the use, effectiveness and potential harm of reflexology on cancer patients.
RESULTS
From all 821 search results, 29 publications concerning 26 studies with 2465 patients were included in this systematic review. The patients treated with reflexology were mainly diagnosed with breast, lung, gastrointestinal and hematological cancer. Outcomes were mainly pain, quality of life, anxiety, depression, fatigue. The studies had moderate to low quality and reported heterogeneous results: Some studies reported significant improvements in above mentioned outcomes while other studies did not find any changes concerning these endpoints.
CONCLUSION
Due to the very heterogeneous results and methodical limitations of the included studies, a clear statement regarding the effectiveness of reflexology on cancer patients is not possible. The current evidence indicates that reflexology is superior to passive control groups for pain, quality of life and fatigue, however, more studies with comparable active control groups are needed.
Topics: Humans; Quality of Life; Musculoskeletal Manipulations; Pain; Neoplasms; Fatigue
PubMed: 38212747
DOI: 10.1186/s12906-023-04220-4 -
Journal of Thermal Biology Jan 2024Cold water immersion (CWI) evokes the life-threatening reflex cold shock response (CSR), inducing hyperventilation, increasing cardiac arrhythmias, and increasing... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Cold water immersion (CWI) evokes the life-threatening reflex cold shock response (CSR), inducing hyperventilation, increasing cardiac arrhythmias, and increasing drowning risk by impairing safety behaviour. Repeated CWI induces CSR habituation (i.e., diminishing response with same stimulus magnitude) after ∼4 immersions, with variation between studies. We quantified the magnitude and coefficient of variation (CoV) in the CSR in a systematic review and meta-analysis with search terms entered to Medline, SportDiscus, PsychINFO, Pubmed, and Cochrane Central Register. Random effects meta-analyses, including effect sizes (Cohen's d) from 17 eligible groups (k), were conducted for heart rate (HR, n = 145, k = 17), respiratory frequency (f, n = 73, k = 12), minute ventilation (V, n = 106, k = 10) and tidal volume (V, n = 46, k=6). All CSR variables habituated (p < 0.001) with large or moderate pooled effect sizes: ΔHR -14 (10) bt. min (d: -1.19); Δf -8 (7) br. min (d: -0.78); ΔV, -21.3 (9.8) L. min (d: -1.64); ΔV -0.4 (0.3) L . Variation was greatest in V (control vs comparator immersion: 32.5&24.7%) compared to V (11.8&12.1%). Repeated CWI induces CSR habituation potentially reducing drowning risk. We consider the neurophysiological and behavioural consequences.
Topics: Humans; Cold-Shock Response; Habituation, Psychophysiologic; Drowning; Water; Respiratory Rate; Cold Temperature; Immersion
PubMed: 38211547
DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2023.103775 -
European Review For Medical and... Dec 2023Self-consciousness is defined as a subject (I) then becomes the object (Me) associated with a present moment of self-experience in which one is aware of their experience...
OBJECTIVE
Self-consciousness is defined as a subject (I) then becomes the object (Me) associated with a present moment of self-experience in which one is aware of their experience without any reflexive judgment attached, a state commonly investigated in mindfulness studies. On the other hand, self-consciousness is viewed as a reflexive experience and, thus, as a synonym for self-reflection. Self-consciousness is an important determinant of behaviors. Expanding self-consciousness is important among adults with diabetes to optimize health prevention and compliance with diabetes self-management in the long term. The chronic complications of diabetes comprise heart disease, stroke, nephropathy, retinopathy, and neuropathy. This review aims to explain the relationship between self-consciousness and chronic diabetes complications.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
An electronic literature search was conducted in the English language in several databases. The Joanna-Briggs Institute was referenced for the quality assessment of case studies, cohort and cross-sectional studies, and qualitative studies, while systematic reviews were evaluated through PRISMA-S. Results were reported according to the PRISMA guidelines.
RESULTS
A total of 89 studies related to self-consciousness of diabetes chronic complications were not found. However, many findings related to chronic complications are based on a lack of knowledge of diabetes and long-term self-management. People with less education, multiple comorbidities, and cognitive dysfunction need lifestyle changes to prevent diabetes and chronic complications.
CONCLUSIONS
Future research should be oriented toward assessing the risk of chronic diabetes complications. Our findings suggest that research should expand self-consciousness and caring partnerships to improve self-consciousness and patients' obedience.
Topics: Adult; Humans; Cross-Sectional Studies; Diabetes Complications; Diabetes Mellitus; Health Status; Quality of Life; Health Literacy; Mindfulness
PubMed: 38164869
DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202312_34805 -
Trauma, Violence & Abuse Jul 2024Young people with special educational needs (SEN), such as intellectual disability and/or autism, are particularly vulnerable to child sexual exploitation and abuse... (Review)
Review
Young people with special educational needs (SEN), such as intellectual disability and/or autism, are particularly vulnerable to child sexual exploitation and abuse (CSEA). This mixed-methods systematic literature review consolidates findings in respect to how young people with SEN are currently being taught about CSEA in the UK, incorporating empirical and practice-based findings to counteract publication bias. Key databases were searched, and relevant organizations were contacted regarding studies published between 2015 and 2022 (inclusive). Thirteen articles met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 10 adopted a qualitative methodology, and three a mixed-methods approach. The thematic synthesis of the qualitative studies identified the following themes: (a) beliefs and stereotypes about CSEA, vulnerability. and risk have led to young people with SEN being misinformed and misunderstood, and (b) anxiety about the topic of sex and abuse creates polarized views regarding CSEA education in adult guardians of young people with SEN. Themes are discussed in the context of societal biases in respect to vulnerability and risk, and these biases are considered to have a negative effect on how young people with SEN are supported. The findings of this review encourage providers of CSEA awareness education to be mindful of not endorsing harmful stereotypes, and to involve parent-carers as much as possible. This review additionally encourages services and organizations to increase focus on practitioner reflexivity and regular training to counteract potential biases in respect to gender, vulnerability, and risk.
Topics: Humans; Child Abuse, Sexual; Child; Adolescent; Education, Special; Male; Female; Empowerment; Intellectual Disability; Young Adult; Qualitative Research
PubMed: 38164801
DOI: 10.1177/15248380231217047 -
Frontiers in Bioengineering and... 2023To systematically evaluate the efficacy of moxibustion in diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) model rats. A comprehensive search was conducted in the...
To systematically evaluate the efficacy of moxibustion in diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) model rats. A comprehensive search was conducted in the China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WanFang Data, VIP, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases from their inception to June 30, 2023. Relevant animal experiments investigating moxibustion for treating IBS-D in model rats were included. Two independent researchers screened the literature, extracted data, and evaluated the risk of bias in the selected studies. The meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3 software. In total, 21 animal studies comprising 680 model rats were included. The meta-analysis results demonstrated that moxibustion enhanced the threshold capacity of the abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR) [standardized mean difference (SMD) = 1.84; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.09, 2.60; < 0.00001], ameliorated the rate of loose stool (SMD = -4.03; 95% CI: -5.76, -2.30; < 0.00001), and decreased the colon 5-hydroxytryptamine (SMD = -3.67; 95% CI: -5.33, -2.01; < 0.00001), serum interleukin-1β (SMD = -3.24, 95% CI: -4.06, -2.41; < 0.00001), serum tumor necrosis factor-α (SMD = -2.35, 95% CI: -4.12, -0.58; < 0.00001), and serum substance P (SMD = -5.14, 95% CI: -8.45, -1.83; = 0.002) concentrations. Moxibustion did not affect the blood calcitonin gene-related peptide level compared to the blank model group ( = 0.15). Moxibustion modulated the brain-gut interaction, reduced visceral hypersensitivity, inhibited intestinal inflammation, and regulated the immune balance, improving the rate of loose stool and increasing the AWR threshold capacity in IBS-D model rats, achieving good analgesic and antidiarrheal effects. However, these conclusions require further validation due to limitations in the quantity and quality of the included studies.
PubMed: 38162185
DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1309661 -
Journal of Dentistry (Shiraz, Iran) Dec 2023Management of gag reflex is a challenging process during many dental treatments. Various studies have been carried out to evaluate different pharmacological and... (Review)
Review
STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
Management of gag reflex is a challenging process during many dental treatments. Various studies have been carried out to evaluate different pharmacological and non-pharmacological techniques to control gagging.
PURPOSE
The aim of this study is to review the available evidence on methods proposed for managing the gag reflex.
MATERIALS AND METHOD
This systematic review adheres to the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. A comprehensive search was conducted in English and Persian based on articles published from 2015 to 2022 (February) in PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science, Google Scholar, ISC and SID. All studies were first screened based on their title and abstract. The quality assessment of articles was carried out by two independent authors. Then, risk of bias evaluation was conducted according to Cochrane parameters.
RESULTS
In total, 1704 studies were identified via search. After reviewing title and abstract, 16 studies found eligible based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Following quality and risk of bias assessment, 9 studies included in the systematic review.
CONCLUSION
Based on the finding of this review, distraction techniques, nitrous oxide, and low-level laser therapy were found effective in management of gag reflex. The dentist should consider gag reflex management based on the type of dental treatment, gag severity, patient's age, and available capabilities.
PubMed: 38149230
DOI: 10.30476/dentjods.2022.96360.1934 -
Modifications of auditory feedback and its effects on the voice of adult subjects: a scoping review.CoDAS 2023The auditory perception of voice and its production involve auditory feedback, kinesthetic cues and the feedforward system that produce different effects for the voice.... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
The auditory perception of voice and its production involve auditory feedback, kinesthetic cues and the feedforward system that produce different effects for the voice. The Lombard, Sidetone and Pitch-Shift-Reflex effects are the most studied. The mapping of scientific experiments on changes in auditory feedback for voice motor control makes it possible to examine the existing literature on the phenomenon and may contribute to voice training or therapies.
PURPOSE
To map experiments and research results with manipulation of auditory feedback for voice motor control in adults.
METHOD
Scope review following the Checklist Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension (PRISMA-ScR) to answer the question: "What are the investigation methods and main research findings on the manipulation of auditory feedback in voice self-monitoring of adults?". The search protocol was based on the Population, Concept, and Context (PCC) mnemonic strategy, in which the population is adult individuals, the concept is the manipulation of auditory feedback and the context is on motor voice control. Articles were searched in the databases: BVS/Virtual Health Library, MEDLINE/Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System online, COCHRANE, CINAHL/Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, SCOPUS and WEB OF SCIENCE.
RESULTS
60 articles were found, 19 on the Lombard Effect, 25 on the Pitch-shift-reflex effect, 12 on the Sidetone effect and four on the Sidetone/Lombard effect. The studies are in agreement that the insertion of a noise that masks the auditory feedback causes an increase in the individual's speech intensity and that the amplification of the auditory feedback promotes the reduction of the sound pressure level in the voice production. A reflex response to the change in pitch is observed in the auditory feedback, however, with particular characteristics in each study.
CONCLUSION
The material and method of the experiments are different, there are no standardizations in the tasks, the samples are varied and often reduced. The methodological diversity makes it difficult to generalize the results. The main findings of research on auditory feedback on voice motor control confirm that in the suppression of auditory feedback, the individual tends to increase the intensity of the voice. In auditory feedback amplification, the individual decreases the intensity and has greater control over the fundamental frequency, and in frequency manipulations, the individual tends to correct the manipulation. The few studies with dysphonic individuals show that they behave differently from non-dysphonic individuals.
Topics: Adult; Humans; Feedback; Pitch Perception; Voice; Speech; Auditory Perception
PubMed: 38126424
DOI: 10.1590/2317-1782/20232022202pt -
PloS One 2023Post-mortem brain donation affords the opportunity to characterise disease by exploring global neuropathological changes. Such opportunities are essential to progress...
PURPOSE
Post-mortem brain donation affords the opportunity to characterise disease by exploring global neuropathological changes. Such opportunities are essential to progress knowledge of CNS tumours such as Glioblastoma. A comprehensive understanding of the experience of consenting to brain donation is crucial to maximising consent rates while providing patient-centred care. This review aimed to synthesise the reported facilitators and barriers according to potential donors, next-of-kin (NOK) and clinician respondents.
DESIGN
Database searches included Embase, Medline, PsycINFO, Psychology and Behavioural Science and Scopus. Search terms focused on motivations, attitudes and psychosocial experiences of brain donation. Exclusions included organ transplantation and brain death. All studies were assessed for quality and validity using tools from the Joanna Briggs Institute. To determine perceptions of benefit and harm, a method guided by the thematic analysis of Braun and Clarke was employed to reflexively assess and identify common themes and experiences.
RESULTS
40 studies (15 qualitative, 25 quantitative) were included involving participants with paediatric cancer, neurodegenerative and psychological diseases. Perceptions of benefit included benefit to future generations, aiding scientific research, avoidance of waste, improved treatments and the belief that donation will bring consolation or aid in the grieving process. Perceptions of harm included a perceived conflict with religious beliefs, disfigurement to the donor, emotional distress at the time of autopsy and discord or objections within the family.
CONCLUSION
Brain donation can afford a sense of purpose, meaning and empowerment for donors and their loved ones. Careful strategies are required to mitigate or reduce potential harms during the consent process.
Topics: Child; Humans; Tissue and Organ Procurement; Tissue Donors; Brain; Attitude; Autopsy
PubMed: 38117774
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295438 -
Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal... 2024Central sensitization cannot be demonstrated directly in humans. Therefore, studies used different proxy markers (signs, symptoms and tools) to identify factors assumed... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Central sensitization cannot be demonstrated directly in humans. Therefore, studies used different proxy markers (signs, symptoms and tools) to identify factors assumed to relate to central sensitization in humans, that is, Human Assumed Central Sensitization (HACS). The aims of this systematic review were to identify non-invasive objective markers of HACS and the instruments to assess these markers in patients with fibromyalgia (FM).
METHODS
A systematic review was conducted with the following inclusion criteria: (1) adults, (2) diagnosed with FM, and (3) markers and instruments for HACS had to be non-invasive. Data were subsequently extracted, and studies were assessed for risk of bias using the quality assessment tools developed by the National Institute of Health.
RESULTS
78 studies (n= 5234 participants) were included and the findings were categorized in markers identified to assess peripheral and central manifestations of HACS. The identified markers for peripheral manifestations of HACS, with at least moderate evidence, were pain after-sensation decline rates, mechanical pain thresholds, pressure pain threshold, sound 'pressure' pain threshold, cutaneous silent period, slowly repeated evoked pain sensitization and nociceptive flexion reflex threshold. The identified markers for central manifestations of HACS were efficacy of conditioned pain modulation with pressure pain conditioning and brain perfusion analysis. Instruments to assess these markers are: pin-prick stimulators, cuff-algometry, repetitive pressure stimulation using a pressure algometer, sound, electrodes and neuroimaging techniques.
CONCLUSIONS
This review provides an overview of non-invasive markers and instruments for the assessment of HACS in patients with FM. Implementing these findings into clinical settings may help to identify HACS in patients with FM.
Topics: Fibromyalgia; Humans; Central Nervous System Sensitization; Pain Threshold; Biomarkers; Pain Measurement
PubMed: 38073369
DOI: 10.3233/BMR-220430 -
Medicine Nov 2023Shoulder hand syndrome (SHS) is a common complication of stroke. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu decoction (HGWD) combined... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Shoulder hand syndrome (SHS) is a common complication of stroke. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu decoction (HGWD) combined with rehabilitation training in managing it, as its efficacy remains inconclusive.
METHODS
Seven databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, SinoMed, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Data, and VIP database were searched in this study. The search deadline was April 30, 2023. Randomized controlled trials that included either standalone rehabilitation training or HGWD combined with rehabilitation training were included, and data were independently extracted by 2 reviewers who assessed the risk of bias.
RESULTS
Thirteen studies involving 1270 patients were included in this study. Meta-analysis showed that the combined treatment was significantly more effective than standalone rehabilitation therapy (odds ratio = 4.49; 95%CI: 2.98-6.76; Z = 7.17; P < .00001). Compared with the control group, the intervention group had a lower visual analog scale score (mean difference [MD] = -2.80, 95%CI (-3.15, -2.45), Z = 15.84, P < .00001). In addition, the Fugl-Meyer assessment scale score improved (MD = 9.69, 95%CI (7.60, 11.78), Z = 9.08, P < .00001). The SHS score in the intervention group decreased more compared to the control group (standard mean difference = -2.27, 95%CI (-3.19, -1.34), Z = 4.79, P < .00001). Serum biomarkers related to SHS decreased, including serum substance P (MD = -7.52, 95%CI (-8.55, -6.48), Z = 14, P < .00001) and bradykinin (MD = -1.81, 95%CI (-2.68, -0.95), Z = 4.1, P < .00001). Although there was no statistical difference in joint mobility score (MD = -4.19, 95%CI (-8.16, -0.22), Z = 4.79, P = .28), sensitivity analysis after excluding one study still suggested that the joint mobility score of the combined treatment group was higher than that of the standalone rehabilitation treatment group.
CONCLUSION
The results of this study indicate that HGWD combined with rehabilitation training may be more effective in treating SHS after stroke compared to standalone rehabilitation therapy.
Topics: Humans; Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy; Stroke; Stroke Rehabilitation
PubMed: 38013357
DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000036282