by Diego A. Bonilla

Received: 21 December 2022;  Published: 26 December 2022;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2204056

Anthropometric measurements are frequently used to assess changes in body composition in different populations. Despite being a cheap, in-field, and relatively valid technique, the COVID-19 pandemic has impulse research on digital anthropometry across the globe. Machine learning, as the convergence of artificial intelligence and data mining, has the potential to improve data collection and analysis in the applications of kinanthropometry. Far from replacing conventional methods, digital anthropometry is a powerful [...]

by Simone Lindsey  , Syd Hiskey  , Chris Irons  and Leanne Andrews

Received: 06 July 2021;  Published: 07 September 2022;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2203039

Research has shown that compassion – whether to others, from others or to oneself – can be associated with improved well-being and mental health. Most measures to date focus on one of these flows of compassion, with only one recently published scale tracking all three. The primary aim of the current study was to investigate the psychometric properties of The Compassionate Engagement and Action Scales (CEAS) in a UK sample. The secondary aims were to investigate the level of compassion, as measured by th [...]

by Ramesh Alluri  , Hardik Ghelani  , Shayal Devi  , Vamsi Krishna Inampudi  and Srinivas Nammi

Received: 03 May 2020;  Published: 07 August 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2003036

To investigate the blood glucose lowering effect of the seed powder of T. foenum-graecum Linn (Papilionaceae) in normal and alloxan-induced diabetic rabbits. The blood glucose lowering effect of the seed powder was determined in normal and alloxan-induced (100 mg/kg, i.v.) diabetic rabbits, after oral administration of doses of 50, 100 and 150 mg/kg body weight. Blood samples were collected from the marginal ear vein before and also at 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 18, 20 and 24 h after drug administration and blood glucose [...]

by Katie M. Hinsey  , Karen E. Atler  , Christine A. Fruhauf  , Ruby A. Bolster  , Marieke Van Puymbroeck  and Arlene A. Schmid

Received: 07 March 2018;  Published: 11 June 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1802010

Background: A fall prevention intervention was delivered to people with chronic stroke (Merged Yoga and Occupational Therapy intervention-MY-OT). All caregivers were invited to also attend the 8-week intervention and were included in these analyses. Methods: The aim of this study was to examine changes in caregiver burden, positive aspects of caring, and caregiver's experiences after participating in the MY-OT intervention. This was a secondary data analyses and the purpose of this mixed-methods study was to quanti [...]

by Paul D. Loprinzi  , Emily Frith  and Faith Harris

Received: 17 December 2018;  Published: 21 February 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901011

Background: Learning and memory, unquestionably, are critical for many aspects of life, including acquisition and retention of educational material. The purpose of this brief narrative review is to provide a primer on empirical-based, learning and memory techniques. Methods: A narrative review approach is employed. Results: This review is structured by first discussing contextual factors that influence learning and memory, followed by addressing several specific techniques to help facilitate learning and memory ret [...]

by Kara B. Dassel  , Eli Iacob  , Rebecca L. Utz  , Katherine P. Supiano  and Hollie Furhmann

Received: 01 September 2022;  Published: 06 January 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2301004

Due to the insidious progression of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD), surrogate decision-makers typically make medical and long-term-care decisions for a care recipient, most often a family care partner. Unfortunately, many care recipient/care partner dyads have failed to engage in advance care planning or have lost the opportunity to do so due to the cognitive decline of the care recipient. To address this need, our team created a validated dementia-focused advance care planning tool known as t [...]

by Deborah A. Sharpe  and Lisa D. Hinz

Received: 30 May 2023;  Published: 19 July 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2303029

This study explored how the global COVID-19 pandemic changed the ways in which art therapists use art in their therapeutic practice. Art has repeatedly been linked to healing in a variety of settings, but generally art therapists have been accustomed to conducting therapy sessions in person. Prior to the pandemic most art therapists preferred in-person sessions for a variety of therapeutic reasons. Although there are clearly downsides to meeting remotely, there have been unforeseen advantages, as well. The present [...]

by Max Oberste  , Sophia Sharma  and Philipp Zimmer

Received: 24 April 2019;  Published: 28 August 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1903052

This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated whether acute aerobic exercise improves subsequent set shifting performance in healthy young individuals. Potential moderation of studies’ methodological quality and exercise intensity, as well as the presence of small-study effect was also examined. Studies were identified using electronic databases Medline, PsycINFO, and SPORTDiscus, as well as references of recent meta-analyses and references of included studies. In total, 12 studies were included into [...]

by Holly Hazlett-Stevens

Received: 12 April 2022;  Published: 07 June 2022;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2202022

Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) teaches mindfulness meditation to reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and related forms of distress among a variety of patients. Much research has documented statistically significant reductions across a variety of self-report measures following MBSR, but researchers rarely assessed and reported the clinical significance of MBSR symptom reduction in accordance with specific criteria famously established by Jacobson and Truax [1]. Patients reporting symptoms of anxiety, depr [...]

by Valérie Morin-Alain  , Eddy Larouche  , Anne-Marie Chouinard  , Marie-Claude Audet  , Sonia Goulet  , Louis-Simon Rousseau  and Carol Hudon

Received: 23 November 2019;  Published: 17 April 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2002022

Peripheral inflammation plays an important role in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and dysregulations in circulating levels of different inflammatory mediators are detectable as early as the mild cognitive impairment (MCI) stage towards AD. Depressive symptoms, another risk factor of AD, are often found in individuals with MCI and associated with heightened levels of peripheral inflammatory mediators. Diminution in depressive symptoms and alterations of peripheral inflammation profiles have been obs [...]

by Rodrigo Alvaro Brandão Lopes-Martins  , Patrícia Sardinha Leonardo  and Kevin Mannoia

Received: 04 March 2025;  Published: 18 June 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2502025

This article examines the complex relationship between the autonomic nervous system, the prefrontal cortex, and spiritual life, providing an interdisciplinary analysis in light of Galatians 5:16-25. Through a combination of theological reflection and insights from neuroscience, it explores how spiritual practices, such as meditation and prayer, influence emotional regulation, impulse control, and overall well-being. Studies in neuroscience have shown that regular spiritual practice can lead to measurable changes in [...]

by Ampere A. Tseng

Received: 21 January 2024;  Published: 13 March 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401019

The aim of this article is to provide a quantitative assessment of the correlation between heightened mindfulness and stress reduction among cancer patients and survivors who engaged in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) interventions. Utilizing data from eight studies, we conducted quantitative analyses to provide the effectiveness scores of MBSR interventions on mindfulness, assessed using the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), and stress symptoms, evaluated through standardized self-reported questi [...]

by Ting-fen Lin  , Deanna Linville  , Rhonda N T Nese  , John Seeley  and Samantha Shune

Received: 21 June 2023;  Published: 19 December 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304059

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) impacts the physiological and psycho-emotional aspects of life. COPD-related secondary sequelae also synergistically interact with each other. For example, dyspnea affects the severity of breath, body functions, and the mind (e.g., anxiety, panic, fear). Such negative psycho-emotional states can further negatively impact the breath and the body (e.g., increased dyspnea). Given the breadth of the impact of COPD on multiple facets of health and well-being, it is essential [...]

by Eugene Stephane Mananga  and Lamisa Rusmeha

Received: 23 December 2020;  Published: 13 April 2021;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2102012

Towards the end of 2019, an unanticipated outbreak, coronavirus also referred to as COVID-19’s first cases occurred in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China. In early 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the pandemic as a Public Health emergency of international concern. COVID-19 is a transmissible disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The COVID-19 puts a spotlight on numerous issues varying from educational, social, political, and economic that were already prese [...]

by Thaninee Prasoppokakorn  , Supachaya Sriphoosanaphan  , Nutbordee Nalinthassanai  , Thitaporn Roongrawee  , Pongtorn Hanboonkunupakarn  , Pisit Tangkijvanich  and Rungsun Rerknimitr

Received: 08 December 2023;  Published: 02 February 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401013

Reports indicate that Andrographolide inhibits viral replication and reduces COVID-19 symptoms. This study aimed to determine Andrographolide's additional effect and safety in mild COVID-19 patients treated with favipiravir. A multicenter, open-labeled, randomized controlled trial was conducted from October 2021 to February 2022. The patients were randomized to receive a combination of Andrographolide and favipiravir or favipiravir monotherapy. The primary outcome was the occurrence rate of severe pneumonia. The se [...]

by Mitsuro Chiba  , Masafumi Komatsu  , Satomi Watanabe  and Yoko Daimon

Received: 13 January 2021;  Published: 20 February 2021;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2101006

The high prevalence of obesity is a global concern. However, obesity and inflammatory bowel disease have similarities in epidemiology, diet, and gut microbial dysbiosis. An omnivorous (westernized) diet replacement with a plant-based diet in inflammatory bowel disease achieved better outcomes in both the induction and quiescent phases. Educational hospitalization providing a plant-based diet was found effective in suppressing flare-up in ulcerative colitis. This case report was designed to assess whether a plant-ba [...]

by Maya Kudo  , Misa Hayashi  , Peng Tian  , Danyang Liu  , Lili Wu  , Wei Li  , Zhaoyang Hong  , Yitang Zhao  , Toshiaki Nishigaki  , Masaaki Nishihara  , Kazuo Koike  , Tonghua Liu  and Ming Gao

Received: 13 April 2020;  Published: 09 July 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2003033

Increased body fat mass can lead to lifestyle diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that increases the onset of multiple diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, which are closely related to lipid metabolism; therefore, new prevention approaches and treatments are needed. Our study investigated the effects and mechanism of YNCRG on anti-obesity in metabolic syndrome model SHR.Cg-Leprcp/NDmcr (SHRCP) rats. Eight-week- [...]

by Tina Huang  , Tony Hung  , S. Irene Kim  and Ka Kit Hui

Received: 07 October 2019;  Published: 02 March 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2001011

Acupuncture has increasingly been used to address a variety of symptoms in patients with cancer. Here we present a case to illustrate the use of acupuncture in a 35-year-old female with metastatic breast cancer who presented to the UCLA Center for East-West Medicine (CEWM) with physical and psychological symptom clusters of insomnia, anxiety, and joint pain.

by Traci Jarrett  , Ilana Haliwa  , Jennifer Ludrosky  , Ashley Mason  , Gretchen Prather  , Brittney Barlett  , Amy Snodgrass  and Geri Dino

Received: 30 November 2022;  Published: 13 April 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2302019

Teacher burnout is one of the primary drivers of turnover. Skills such as improved classroom management have been shown to mitigate teacher burnout. COVID-19 created classroom disruption and an unprecedented youth mental health crisis. This study examined the effectiveness of a school-based mindfulness training at improving classroom management self-efficacy and reducing teacher burnout during COVID-19. Elementary school personnel were invited to participate in two versions of Kidding Around Yoga training and to im [...]

by Karen E. Atler  , Deana Muñoz  , Carly Knowles  , Angie Noe  , Christine A. Fruhauf  , Kathryn McGirr  , Tracy L. Nelson  and Arlene A. Schmid

Received: 18 May 2021;  Published: 05 November 2021;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2104043

If proper self-management behaviors are not maintained, diabetes may lead to reduced quality of life (QoL), decreased engagement in everyday activities, disabling health complications, and even death. Less advantaged adults with limited income, lower education, and fewer resources find diabetes self-management (DSM) particularly challenging due to healthcare and social inequalities. DSM education is important to understanding diabetes-related behaviors and improving QoL. There are few evidence informed DSM educatio [...]

by Michael Frass

Received: 07 April 2018;  Published: 20 April 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1802004

Oncology patients often suffer from the side-effects of conventional therapy, such as chemotherapy, radiation and/or surgery. Additive complementary medicine, such as homeopathy might be beneficial in the support of these patients. Several case reports as well as some studies have suggested the beneficial effects of homeopathy in cancer patients. Furthermore, homeopathy may also be helpful in improving quality of life (QoL). Homeopathic remedies also offer the advantage that they can be combined with a variety of c [...]

by Lauren Curry  , Meghan Pike  , Mary Lynch  , Dana Marcon  and Jana Sawynok

Received: 01 April 2019;  Published: 28 June 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1902040

Background: Qigong, traditional Chinese mind-body practices, is currently receiving increasing attention with exploration of what it is and what it does. Common elements include postures and movement, attention to breathing, and mental instructions. There is a growing literature on the health benefits of qigong in chronic pain and other conditions, and an intervention that provides benefit in multiple domains is particularly important for clinical practice. In this report, we present a case series of six individual [...]

by Gerhard Litscher

Received: 27 May 2016;  Published: 15 August 2016;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1601001

Integrative and Complementary Medicine (ICM-OBM) is an international peer-reviewed, open-access journal which covers all evidence-based scientific studies on integrative and complementary approaches to improving health and quality of life. Integrative and complementary medicine comprises science-oriented “university” or academic medicine, but also experience-based medicine with all its complementary methods. It is not a special field in itself, but a signal for an all-encompassing medicine, open-minded about the p [...]

by Yiu Lin Wong  , Jialing Zhang  , Linda LD Zhong  , David Moher  and Zhaoxiang Bian

Received: 04 December 2023;  Published: 06 March 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2401018

The modified Jade Wind-Barrier formula (MJWB) may prevent the common cold in the elderly with a Qi-deficiency Constitution. Previously, no controlled trial evidence existed to illuminate the concept of “preventive treatment of disease” as outlined in the constitution theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine. This theory distinctly suggests that enhancing the Qi-deficiency Constitution and modulating its functional state can prevent the occurrence of the common cold. This controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifie [...]

by Zahi Arnon

Received: 28 January 2022;  Published: 06 May 2022;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2202021

After the emergence of Mindfulness in the Western world, many studies proved its mental and physical benefits. However, implementing Mindfulness in psychotherapy has several challenges: therapists are not formal Mindfulness instructors; the Mindfulness course is a continuous eight-week course, which many patients do not attend during therapy, while others attend and drop out. Thus, Hypnosis was applied to shorten and strengthen the desired changes. The article describes the logic behind this integration, demonstrat [...]