Articles tagged with Alternative Medicine
Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital are testing a novel light therapy to slow Alzheimer's debilitating effects, aiming to improve both cognition and sleep. The treatment involves flashing pulses of light designed to enhance electrical brain waves and reset the sleep-wake cycle.
Researchers from Pusan National University have compiled a comprehensive review of ginsenosides, the main component of ginseng, which can prevent inflammation, diabetes, and cancer. The study provides insights into how to improve ginsenoside production through chemical and enzymatic treatments, as well as microbial action.
A study published in Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation found that 80% of people with spinal cord injury use complementary and integrative healthcare approaches. The most common reasons for use were general health and wellness, pain management, and to improve mobility and flexibility. However, there is a need for more res...
Researchers from Osaka University found that quercetin in buckwheat liquor induces autophagy, a process that cleans up damaged proteins, and aggrephagy, which removes protein aggregates. This could lead to new treatments for diseases like Alzheimer's and alcoholic liver disease.
A comprehensive review of 315 clinical trials found that most weight-loss supplements and therapies did not produce significant weight loss. Only 16 studies demonstrated significant results, with weight loss ranging from 0.3 to 4.93 kg.
Researchers developed an organ-preserving treatment method to repair damaged vein valves, achieving a success rate of 95.24% in eliminating varicose vein problems. The therapy uses a thin sheath around the defective vein to restore its normal diameter and prevent serious health issues.
A nutritional supplement, IQed Smart Nutrition, has been found to improve expressive speech and communication skills for people with autism, apraxia, and ADHD. The supplement reported improvements in 83.8% of respondents, with the highest observed improvement being 88.1% in vocalizations.
Researchers summarize growing knowledge on light therapy's mechanism, effectiveness, and applications in treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Light stimulation has been shown to restore memory and cognition, improve sleep quality, and reduce symptoms in patients with these conditions.
Researchers identified traditional Ghanaian medicines that work in the lab against schistosomiasis, onchocerciasis, and lymphatic filariasis. Eight extracts showed good activity against these diseases, as well as trypanosomes, which cause other human diseases.
Researchers analyzed published research to find 565 mammalian species used in traditional medicine globally, highlighting the threat of overexploitation. Closely related species are often used to treat similar diseases.
The study highlights the potential of microbial enzymes in addressing global challenges such as Alzheimer's disease, cardiovascular therapy and biofilm-related infections. Bacillary proteases have been shown to exhibit fibrinolytic and thrombolytic properties, making them promising alternatives to existing drugs.
A special issue on Integrative Palliative Care was published in JACM, featuring research from 11 countries on this new model of care. The issue highlights the potential value of greater mutual respect and exploratory collaborations between palliative medicine and integrative health communities.
A study of Finnish parents reveals a link between vaccine scepticism, low trust in medical doctors, and defiance. The research also found that individuals who defy rules and recommendations are more likely to use alternative medicine.
A new strategy using organic nanoparticles evaluates PTT efficiency on tumors in real time, enabling doctors to adjust treatment plans promptly. The approach is based on the correlation between PTT efficiency, Casp3 activity, and near-infrared fluorescence intensity.
A survey of over 1,000 MS patients in Oregon found that an overwhelming majority use complementary and alternative medicine, including dietary supplements, mind-body therapies, and exercise. The study suggests a shift towards greater openness between patients and healthcare providers about the use of alternatives.
Researchers explore direct reprogramming as an alternative to cell therapy-based strategies for cardiac regeneration after myocardial infarction. They identify microRNAs and biomaterials like electrospun scaffolds and nanoparticles as potential non-viral vectors for safe delivery of genetic reprogramming.
The American College of Physicians has issued new Practice Points stating that hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin do not support COVID-19 prophylaxis or treatment. However, they may be used in clinical trials with informed decision-making. Additionally, research suggests that RT-PCR tests for SARS-CoV-2 have low sensitivity, particula...
Art therapy is shown to deliver improvements in mood, outlook, behaviours, confidence, personal relationships, and self-awareness for Australian veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study aims to provide evidence for increased funding for art therapy in Australia.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that dual therapy with a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) plus P2Y12 inhibitor was associated with reduced risk of major bleeding compared to triple therapy with a vitamin K antagonist (VKA) plus aspirin and P2Y12 inhibitor for patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation after percutaneous ...
Recent advances in immunotherapy are starting to show hope for small cell lung cancer patients, but current treatments have limited durability and many patients don't respond. Researchers call for further exploration of underlying disease mechanisms and development of predictive biomarkers to advance the field.
Researchers found that motivational interviewing skills increased detainee engagement and information gain, while approaches antithetical to MI had a negative impact. The study suggests creating an environment of personal control and autonomy can encourage cooperation.
Researchers tested whether contaminating a fake rubber hand could help people with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) overcome their contamination fears. The 'rubber hand illusion' technique showed promise in reducing disgust and anxiety levels, paving the way for new treatment options.
A Finnish study uses GIS data to compare the costs of warfarin and direct oral anticoagulant therapies, finding that DOACs are more cost-effective for patients living far from INR sample collection points or requiring frequent monitoring. The researchers developed a geospatial model to determine market areas and costs for each therapy.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials found only three significant improvements in acne severity with blue light therapy. The majority of trials lack sufficient evidence to conclude the treatment's efficacy, highlighting the need for more research.
Researchers from George Washington University have successfully used ultrasound therapy to increase insulin levels in mice, providing a potential alternative to current treatments. The study found significant increases in blood insulin levels after exposure to ultrasonic pulses, but did not see the corresponding drop in glucose levels.
The PARTNER 3 Low-Risk TAVR Trial found that TAVR significantly reduces the incidence of adverse events and re-hospitalizations compared to SAVR in low-risk surgical patients. After one year, these benefits were maintained, with improved ICU and hospital stay lengths.
A study reveals that 1 in 3 complementary medicine users do not disclose their CM use to medical providers. This can lead to unsafe concurrent use and harm due to adverse effects. The researchers emphasize the importance of disclosure for patient management and care.
A systematic review of traditional medicine (TCAM) use in Sub-Saharan Africa found significant and widespread use among the general population and specific health conditions. TCAM use was often aligned with sociocultural and spiritual values, with herbal therapy being the most common treatment.
A Baylor University study found that veterans with combat-related PTSD experienced reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety after participating in an eight-week therapeutic horseback riding program. The program improved quality of life, self-acceptance, confidence, gratitude, and hope among participants.
A survey found that Americans wish doctors discuss their mental, spiritual, and lifestyle factors with them. Most patients want to talk about why they're healthy, non-drug treatments, and factors influencing overall well-being.
Crowdfunding sites have seen a surge in UK cancer-related appeals, with £8m raised since 2012. Critics argue that these platforms are not adequately vetting appeals, potentially leading to patients being exploited by unproven treatments.
Researchers found that patients using complementary medicine had a higher risk of death and were more likely to refuse conventional cancer treatments. The study analyzed data from over 1,290 patients with breast, prostate, lung, or colorectal cancer.
A WSU study found that stopping long-term opioid therapy does not make chronic, non-cancer-related pain worse, and in some cases, improves it. The researchers analyzed data from 551 VA patients who discontinued opioid therapy for at least a year, finding that their pain did not worsen but rather remained similar or improved slightly.
A new study reveals that supplement use among children has doubled since 2003, with adolescents using alternative medicines to treat health conditions or side effects of prescription medications. The prevalence of supplement use varies by gender, reflecting other health issues such as depression and insomnia.
A US clinical trial found that in-home telerehabilitation was as effective as traditional in-clinic therapy in improving arm motor status in stroke survivors. The study, conducted at 11 sites, showed significant improvements in patients who received the home-based program, with a total of 97.9% patient compliance.
A study published in BMJ Open found that GP surgeries with GPs trained in complementary and alternative medicine have lower antibiotic prescribing rates. This reduction is associated with a decrease in some antibiotic resistance. The authors suggest exploring additional treatment strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance.
A study of medical cannabis dispensaries in Washington and Colorado reveals how communities vote affects marketing strategies, with traditional approaches dominating counties where recreational use was rejected. Dispensaries in favor of recreational sales adopted more risk-taking marketing tactics, emphasizing convenience and price.
A recent study published in Neurology found that virtual reality training can improve arm and hand movement after a stroke, with results comparable to traditional therapy. The study involved 120 participants who underwent either standard physical and occupational therapy or virtual reality training for four weeks.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for chronic pain that can reduce reliance on opioids and improve quality of life. By teaching patients coping strategies, CBT helps them manage their pain and behaviors associated with it.
The study investigates stevia's antiobesity, antihyperglycemic, antihypertensive, and antihyperlipidemic effects. Stevia extracts derived from the plant's leaves, flowers, and roots may provide natural alternatives for treating metabolic syndrome-related disorders.
Researchers at the University of Leeds have created an alternative pathway for peroxisome organelles to import proteins, leading to the development of 'designer organelles'. These custom compartments could be used as biofactories for producing therapeutic proteins or other useful molecules.
Researchers found that combination therapy is only beneficial for high-risk patients with CPE, while low-risk patients can be treated with a single active antimicrobial. This approach reduces adverse side effects and the risk of drug resistance.
Scientists at the University of Liverpool have shown that phage therapy can kill drug-resistant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common cause of chronic lung infections in Cystic Fibrosis patients. The study suggests that phage therapy could be a valuable addition to treatment options for these hard-to-treat infections.
A review of studies on menopause symptoms found that women frequently use alternative treatments but often don't inform their doctors. The University of Delaware study suggests improving communication between healthcare providers and patients using CAM can boost treatment efficacy.
High-concentration peroxide ingestion has been linked to life-threatening ailments such as seizure, stroke, and respiratory distress, with a mortality rate of 6.8%. Early treatment with hyperbaric oxygen can improve outcomes.
A study by Vanderbilt University found that cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is most effective in improving daily functioning for IBS patients. Cognitive behavioral therapies were found to be the most effective type of psychotherapy in reducing symptoms and increasing ability to participate in activities.
A recent case report highlights the dangers of alternative therapies in children, leading to severe symptoms such as vomiting, constipation, and weight loss. In another case, a woman developed tick-borne illness, including seizures and multiorgan failure, after removing a tick from her skin.
A new review found that certain alternative therapies, such as probiotics and fiber, are effective in treating IBS symptoms. Patients with functional constipation and ulcerative colitis may also benefit from synbiotics and Escherichia coli strain Nissle 1917.
Women with early-stage breast cancer who used dietary supplements and complementary medicine were less likely to start chemotherapy than nonusers, according to a new study. CAM use was associated with lower chemotherapy initiation rates among those for whom treatment was indicated.
Women with early-stage breast cancer who used dietary supplements and complementary therapies were less likely to start chemotherapy. Dietary supplement usage was associated with a lower likelihood of initiating chemotherapy, while mind-body practices showed no relation.
Websites geared towards more educated groups struggle to communicate with the general population. Nonprofit, academic, and government websites have higher accuracy but are harder to read. Healthcare professionals should actively evaluate online resources for their patients.
Researchers at Lund University have found a promising new therapeutic target to treat bacterial infections, regulating the immune response and avoiding destructive inflammation. The discovery of IRF-7 as an immunotherapeutic target holds promise for non-antibiotic therapy.
A survey of glaucoma patients in Washington, D.C. found that perceptions of marijuana legality and false beliefs about its value were associated with intentions to use it as a treatment. The study suggests a need for education on the topic to protect patients against increased acceptability based on misconceptions.
Scientists at the University of Copenhagen have made a groundbreaking discovery in cancer therapy, revealing a new chemical reaction that enables more accurate treatment. This breakthrough has the potential to improve patient outcomes and reduce damage from traditional radiation therapy.
A new study has found that targeted magnetic pulses cause biochemical and connectivity changes across the brain in depressed patients. The research suggests that personalized TMS treatment could lead to better, more targeted therapy for depression and other conditions.
A new study confirms that 53% of menopausal women use at least one type of CAM for symptom management, raising safety concerns due to lack of medical consultation. Healthcare providers need to be aware of CAM therapies and guide patients to coordinate safe care.
The European Menopause and Andropause Society recommends non-hormonal management of menopausal vasomotor symptoms through lifestyle modifications and behavioral interventions. Selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors and gabapentin may be effective alternatives to estrogen-based therapies, but evidence is limited for other approaches.
A study of antibiotic shortages from 2001 to 2013 found that 148 antibiotics were affected, with an upward trend starting in 2007. Many involved gold-standard therapies for life-threatening infections with limited alternative treatment options, raising concerns about patient care.
Women with uterine fibroids have several treatment options, including medical and interventional therapies. Alternative treatment options include tranexamic acid, levonorgestrel-releasing IUDs, hysteroscopic myomectomy, endometrial ablation, gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists, and more.
A University of Tokyo research group has successfully synthesized (R)- and (S)-rolipram in high yield with high selectivity using a catalyzed flow fine synthesis. This new technology eliminates excess energy, purification steps, and waste generation, offering a promising solution for the production of medicines and fine chemicals.