Photobiomodulation therapy for chronic knee pain in obese patients in pre-rehabilitation for bariatric surgery: randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, clinical trial protocol.

INTRODUCTION: Obesity has become a worldwide public health problem and is directly linked to loss of quality of life, complications and comorbidities. One of them is chronic pain, especially in the knees, which increases significantly and proportionally with weight gain. In patients with severe obesity, with indication for bariatric surgery, the presence of chronic pain disables and often prevents their participation in a pre-surgical rehabilitation programme. As an analgesic therapy, photobiomodulation (PBM) has been studied with safety, efficacy, well-tolerated used and low costs. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the use of PBM for the treatment of chronic knee pain in obese patients undergoing a pre-surgical rehabilitation programme for bariatric surgery. METHODS AND ANALYSES: This is a double-blinded, randomised, placebo-controlled clinical, superiority, trial protocol. The PBM will be applied in bilateral knees and lumbar paraspinal points levels referring to the roots of innervation of the knee. The outcomes evaluated will be pain intensity, functionality, quality of life and clinical signs of neurological sensitization of chronic knee pain pathways. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This protocol has already been approved by the Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa do Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Goiás/EBSERH-Ethics Committee and it is following SPIRIT guidelines. The results will be statistically analysed and subsequently published in peer-reviewed journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: Clinical Trials Platform (https://clinicaltrials.gov/) with the number NCT05816798.

Can a six-week Swedish massage reduce mood disorders and enhance the quality of life in individuals with Multiple Sclerosis? A randomized control clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION: There is a limited amount of research specifically focusing on the effects of Swedish massage on mood disorders and the quality of life (QOL) among individuals with MS, emphasizing the need for further investigation. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effects of a 6-week Swedish massage on the quality of life, stress, anxiety, depression, pain, fatigue, spasticity, and sleep quality in MS patients. METHODS: This randomized controlled trial involved 70 MS patients who were divided into two groups. The massage group underwent two 50-minute sessions of whole-body Swedish massage per week for six weeks, while the usual treatment group maintained their regular medical care routine. Outcomes were Short Form-36 (SF-36) and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI-P), and Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS). These measurements were taken before and after the massage intervention. RESULTS: The massage group demonstrated significant improvements in QOL and its components compared to the usual treatment group (Hedge's g = 0.53 for QOL, ranging from 0.31 to 0.58 for QOL components; p < 0.001). Participants in the massage group also reported significantly lower levels of stress (Hedge's g = 0. 80), anxiety (Hedge's g = 0.47), and depression (Hedge's g = 0.70) than those in the usual treatment group (p < 0.001). Additionally, the massage group had lower levels of pain, fatigue, and spasticity, and better sleep quality compared to the usual treatment group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Swedish massage can be considered a valuable complementary and alternative treatment alongside conventional medicine for individuals with MS.

[Anaphylactic shock after mistletoe therapy]. / Anaphylaktischer Schock nach Misteltherapie.

Life-threatening side effects of mistletoe therapy are mostly negated by physicians working in complementary medicine. This article reports on a case of life-threatening anaphylactic shock after carrying out mistletoe therapy. In patients with a carcinoid syndrome (flushes, diarrhea, bronchoconstriction) the diagnosis of anaphylactic shock can be masked by the findings of a neuroendocrine neoplasm. Before a planned complementary medicine mistletoe therapy patients should also be well-informed on rare life-threatening side effects.

The Role of Alternative Medicine in Managing Type 2 Diabetes: A Comprehensive Review.

Diabetes, a chronic metabolic disorder marked by elevated blood glucose levels, is increasingly prevalent globally, significantly impacting health-related quality of life. Type 2 diabetes (T2DM), characterized by insulin resistance and inadequate insulin production, presents a substantial public health challenge, necessitating comprehensive management strategies. Conventional treatments, including lifestyle modifications and pharmacotherapy, are essential for glycemic control and preventing complications. However, adherence to these treatments is often limited, highlighting the need for alternative strategies. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) offers potential cost-effective and accessible approaches for managing T2DM. Key herbal remedies like cinnamon, fenugreek, and bitter melon, along with dietary supplements like chromium, magnesium, and vanadium, have shown promise in glycemic control. Mind-body therapies, including yoga, tai chi, and meditation, contribute to improved hemoglobin A1c and fasting blood glucose levels. Research supports the integration of CAM with conventional therapies, demonstrating enhanced clinical efficacy and reduced economic burden. However, challenges such as standardization, quality control, and potential risks of herbal medicines need careful consideration. Regulatory frameworks and ethical considerations are essential to ensure patient safety and informed decision-making. Patient education and effective communication between healthcare providers and patients are crucial for integrating CAM into diabetes management. Empowerment-based interventions and collaborative approaches can enhance self-management skills and clinical outcomes. Overall, integrating CAM with conventional treatments offers a holistic approach to managing T2DM, potentially improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.

Evaluation of clinical characters and use of alternative medicines in the management of headache and predictors of treatment satisfaction among Saudi adults - A community-based study in Saudi Arabia.

Background and objective: The use of alternative medicine (AM) is rising globally. Hence this study aimed to assess the Use of and Satisfaction with Alternative Medicine in the management of headache and Related Factors in Individuals, living in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to December 2023 using an online questionnaire in Riyadh Saudi Arabia. The data was collected using a series, of prevalidated questionnaires aimed to assess the utilization and satisfaction of AM for the headache. Convenience sampling was applied for data collection. Results: A response rate of 93.1 % (n = 550) was obtained. Among the respondents, 78.7 % reported having headaches, while 69.2 % had a history of using AMs for headaches. However, among the users of AMs, 65.9 % of them were satisfied with the results of AMs, of those who were satisfied, 33.7 % said that AMs helped to prevent headache attacks, and 53.8 % reported that AMs use reduced pain intensity. The regression results demonstrated that there was a significant relationship between the satisfaction of AM for the headache and age (p < 0.004), and Active in sports (p < 0.019) and severity of the headache pain (p < 0.081). Conclusion: The findings reported that relatively high prevalence of AMs used to manage headaches, while 65.9% of the users were satisfied with the outcomes, the satisfaction was found to have a significant relationship with age, activity in sports and severity of pain. To avoid negative effects of AM, it is recommended to use under the qualified healthcare professionals.

Preoperative electroacupuncture versus sham electroacupuncture for the treatment of postoperative ileus after laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer in China: a study protocol for a multicentre, randomised, sham-controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: Postoperative ileus (POI) is a postoperative complication that can cause lingering recovery after colorectal resection and a heavy healthcare system burden. Acupuncture aims to prevent postoperative complications, reduce the duration of POI, help recovery and shorten hospital stays. We hypothesise that preoperative electroacupuncture (EA) can promote POI recovery under the enhanced recovery after surgery protocol after laparoscopic surgery in patients with POI. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This is a multicentre, randomised, sham-controlled trial. A total of 80 patients will be enrolled and randomly assigned to the EA or sham electroacupuncture (SA) group. The eligible patients will receive EA or SA for one session per day with treatment frequency starting on preoperative day 1 for four consecutive days. The primary outcome is the time to first defecation. The secondary outcomes include the time to first flatus, length of postoperative hospital stay, time to tolerability of semiliquid and solid food, postoperative nausea, vomiting, pain and extent of abdominal distention, time to first ambulation, preoperative anxiety, 30-day readmission rate, the usage of anaesthetics and analgesics during operation, length of postanaesthesia care unit stay. A mechanistic study by single-cell RNA sequencing in which postintervention normal intestinal tissue samples will be collected. The results of this study will provide evidence of the effects of acupuncture on POI and promote good clinical decision to millions of patients globally every year. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study has been approved by the ethical application of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (2022BZYLL0401), Beijing Friendship Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University(2022-P2-368-02), Cancer Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Science (23/175-3917), Huanxing Cancer Hospital (2023-002-02). The results will be published in a medical journal. In addition, we plan to present them at scientific conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ChiCTR2300077633.

Efficacy of soothing cream gel in the range of motion and chronic pain at the shoulder and elbow: protocol of a double-blinded, randomised, placebo-controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: Upper limb problems have a significant impact on the global population leading to pain and restricted joint mobility, ultimately impacting their quality of life. Traditional treatments, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids, often come with undesirable side effects, prompting patients to seek alternative therapies. In this trial, we hypothesise that soothing cream gel (SCG) will improve range of motion and chronic pain in the shoulder and elbow. The objective of this trial is to evaluate the efficacy of SCG in improving the range of motion and chronic pain in the shoulder and elbow. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: A double-blinded, randomised, placebo-controlled trial is conducted to compare the effects of SCG and placebo gel. SCG contains Vitis vinifera essence, Melaleuca viridiflora essential oil, etc, and is manufactured according to Good Manufacturing Practice standards. The placebo gel will be processed with similar appearance, texture and scent but will lack active ingredients. 70 participants with upper limb problems will be recruited from four study sites, including clinical centres and a sport department at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK). Participants will be randomly assigned to either treatment group or placebo group for 2 weeks. Primary outcome will be the range of motion in the upper limb, assessed by a goniometer, to measure active flexion and abduction for the shoulder, and active flexion and extension for the elbow. The primary efficacy analyses will be based on the full analysis set following the intention-to-treat principle. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: The trial has obtained approval from the joint CUHK-New Territories East Cluster (CRE-2023.142), and the patient enrolment commenced in July 2023. Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants prior to participation. Study results will be disseminated through publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at conference. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT05799391.

Possible opportunities and challenges for traditional Chinese medicine research in 2035.

The drug development process is poised for significant transformation due to the rapid advancement of modern biological and information technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI). As these new technologies and concepts infiltrate every stage of drug development, the efficiency and success rate of research and development are expected to improve substantially. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), a time-honored therapeutic system encompassing herbal medicine, acupuncture, and qigong, will also be profoundly impacted by these advancements. Over the next decade, Traditional Chinese medicine research will encounter both opportunities and challenges as it integrates with modern technologies and concepts. By 2035, TCM is anticipated to merge with modern medicine through a more contemporary and open research and development model, providing substantial support for treating a broader spectrum of diseases.

Navigating ethical dilemmas in complementary and alternative medicine: a narrative review.

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is a rapidly growing industry, with millions worldwide seeking these treatments for various ailments. While many CAM therapies have shown promise in improving health outcomes, there are also ethical challenges associated with them. In this article, we explore some of the most pressing ethical issues in CAM, including informed consent, justice in accessibility, and evidence-based therapies. This survey provides a comprehensive overview of the ethical issues in CAM and offers practical guidance for health-care providers navigating these complex issues. By understanding the ethical dilemmas in CAM, health-care providers can offer their patients safe and effective care while maintaining their professional and ethical obligations.

A Plea for Monitoring Serum Selenium Levels in Breast Cancer Patients: Selenium Deficiency Is Rare during the First Year of Therapy, and Selenium Supplementation Is Associated with Elevated Risk of Overdosing.

(1) Background: The role of selenium in cancer biology remains poorly understood. Our aim was to study the course of selenium serum levels and the use of selenium supplements during breast cancer therapy. (2) Methods: Serum selenium levels, clinical-pathological data, selenium supplementation, and lifestyle factors were monitored quarterly over one year. (3) Results: A total of 110 non-metastatic breast cancer patients were enrolled in the prospective observational "BEGYN-1" study. At baseline, 2.9% of patients were selenium-deficient (<50 ng/mL), 1.9% were overdosed (>120 ng/mL), and 6.4% received substitution. The median selenium level was 81.5 ng/mL and ranged between 78.7 and 84.5 ng/mL within the year. A total of 25.3% of the patients received supplementation, resulting in significantly higher selenium levels (p < 0.05). A total of 8.7-28.6% of the patients using supplements were overdosed. Selenium levels strongly correlated with mushroom consumption (p = 0.003), but no association was found with therapy or clinical characteristics. (4) Conclusions: Although selenium deficiency is rare, serum selenium levels should be assessed in breast cancer patients. Mushrooms and nuts should be preferred over supplements to correct selenium deficiency. Ruling out selenium deficiency helps prevent the risk of selenosis and avoid unnecessary, costly supplementation in patients who are often financially burdened due to their disease.

Laser Acupuncture versus Liraglutide in Treatment of Obesity: A Multi-Institutional Retrospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Obesity is a global concern, driving the search for alternative treatments beyond lifestyle changes and medications. Laser acupuncture (LA) shows promise in obesity management, yet few studies compare it with FDA-approved medications. This study aimed to assess and compare LA's impact with liraglutide on weight reduction in obese individuals. METHODS: Data from the Chang Gung Research Database (CGRD) (2013-2018) were analyzed. Primary outcomes included changes in body weight and BMI within 180 days, with secondary outcomes measuring the proportion achieving 5%, 10%, and 15% weight loss. Adverse events were also assessed. RESULTS: Of 745 subjects (173 LA users, 572 liraglutide users), LA users lost more weight by day 180 (5.82 ± 4.39 vs. 2.38 ± 5.75 kg; p < 0.001) and had a greater BMI reduction (-2.27 ± 1.73 vs. -0.93 ± 2.25 kg/m2; p < 0.001). More LA users achieved 5% and 10% weight loss compared to liraglutide users (64.2% vs. 22.7%, 26.6% vs. 4.2%; all p < 0.001). After balancing baseline differences, LA's benefits remained significant. No adverse events were reported with LA. CONCLUSIONS: LA may offer superior weight reduction compared to liraglutide. Future studies should explore LA alone or in combination with liraglutide for obesity management.

Ethical requirements of instructions for authors of complementary and alternative medicine journals: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Medical research in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has increased recently, raising ethical concerns about the moral status of CAM. Medical academic journals are responsible for conducting ethical review (ER) of manuscripts to protect the interests of human subjects and to make ethical results available before deciding to publish. However, there has been no systematic analysis of the ER in CAM journals. This study is aim to evaluate the current status of ethical requirements and compliance in CAM journals. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study. We reviewed instructions for authors (IFAs) of CAM journals included in the Journal Citation Reports (2021) ( https://jcr.clarivate.com ) for general information and requirements for ER. We also browsed the manuscripts regarding randomized controlled trials published by CAM journals in Q1 and Q2 section from January to June, 2023, to check the actual situation of ethical requirement. Descriptive statistics and Fisher's exact test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: 27 journals and 68 manuscripts were ultimately included. 92.6% (25/27) IFAs included keywords of ER, indicating the presence of ethical considerations. However, no specific ER was required for CAM (n = 0). We categorized journals by Geographic origin, JCR section, Year of electronic JCR, Types of studies, % of OA Gold to explore the factors that could influence CAM journals to have certain ethical review policies. The results showed there was no statistical significance in certain ethical review policy in any classification of journals (p > 0.05). All RCT manuscripts included in the study generally met the requirements of the published journals for ethical review. CONCLUSIONS: All IFAs discussed ER, but the content was scattered, unfocused, and there were no specific ER requirements regarding CAM. Although the manuscripts basically met the requirements of the journal, it was not possible to get closer to the process of ER in the manuscript. To ensure full implementation of these policies in the future, CAM journals should require authors to provide more details, or to form a list of items necessary for CAM ethical review.

The Use of Traditional and Complementary Medicine Among Patients With Multiple Sclerosis in Morocco.

BACKGROUND: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an acquired chronic, autoimmune, and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system. In addition to conventional MS therapy, patients are interested in traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM). Our study aims to describe the use of T&CM in a cohort of Moroccan patients with MS. METHODS: A quantitative descriptive study was adopted to study this subject. For data collection, we opted for an anonymous questionnaire for 98 patients with MS. We gathered data via an electronic survey, using multivariable analysis to examine the effect of specific factors on T&CM use. Data collection took place from March 2022 to June 2022. RESULTS: The results show that 52% of patients use T&CM. Of those, 29.6% use cupping, 23.5% recite the Holy Quran, 15.3% use phytotherapy, 13.2% use apitherapy, and 10.2% use acupuncture. In addition, 66.3% of the surveyed respondents stated that alternative medicine positively affects their health. Finally, 49.1% of surveyed patients who use alternative medicine are between 30 and 40 years old. The results also show that the rate of T&CM use is higher in patients with progressive MS (OR = 2.540) and patients without financial access to disease-modifying therapy (OR = 2.100). CONCLUSIONS: This study invites us to consider societal, cultural, and economic factors when studying the use of T&CM among people with MS. Further research is needed to understand the motivations for using T&CM.

Unresolved conundrum of the role of physical activity in inflammatory bowel disease: What next?

There is considerable controversy on the role of physical activity in irritable bowel disease (IBD) since published reports are conflicting. It is well known that there is known relapse with specific treatment in IBD. This, in addition to onset of extraintestinal symptoms creates a need to think of alternate approaches. In this context, the current article describes the need of a multi-institutional study with standard protocol of physical activity for documenting its effect on both the primary disease and the extra alimentary manifestations. This paper also points out the possibility of using adjuvant complementary medicine such as yoga, whose effects have been documented in other diseases like irritable bowel syndrome. A third approach could be to focus on the intestinal dysbiosis in IBD and concentrate on research on restoring the microbial flora to normal, to see whether the extra-intestinal symptoms are alleviated.

Wellness or medicine? Use and perception of Ayurveda in Germany: data from an online-representative cross-sectional study.

Introduction: Ayurveda, South Asia's largest and most relevant system of Traditional Medicine, holds a legal status akin to conventional Western medicine in India and elsewhere. There is an almost complete lack of data on the use of Ayurveda in Germany. The aim of this study was to investigate Ayurveda's utilization patterns, entry points, and factors influencing its use and the perception of Ayurveda among the German population. Methods: Basis of this manuscript was an online-representative survey which involved 4,065 participants aged 18-75 about the use and acceptance of Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine (TCIM) in Germany. The survey was conducted online using Computer Assisted Web Interview (CAWI) in 2022. The dataset was analyzed descriptively and inferentially. Results: Altogether 9.3% (n = 377) of all survey participants (n = 4,065) had already used Ayurveda somehow, either more often (1.7%) or at least once in a lifetime (7.6%). Responders associated Ayurveda primarily with Indian Medicine (27.7%) and wellness (18%). Commonly used Ayurvedic services included non-medical treatments at wellness resorts/spas (48.3%), in outpatient practices (27.1%), and hotels (23.6%). 30.2% of the participants believe in Ayurveda's therapeutic potential. 76.7% of Ayurveda users find healthy nutrition important or very important. Nine predictors were found to classify Ayurveda users vs. non-users with spirituality and belief in Ayurveda's therapeutic efficacy as the most relevant ones. Ayurveda seems to be primarily used by well-educated and female individuals, often from higher-income groups and with a rather modern social milieu-orientation. Conclusion: Study results suggest that about every tenth German citizen has used Ayurveda in the past and about one third believes in its therapeutic potential. Because Ayurvedic therapies are often not evidence-based, there is an urgent need to perform high quality randomized controlled trials to investigate potential effects and safety of Ayurveda and how evidence-based Ayurveda treatments can be integrated into the German healthcare system.

Dietary supplement use among military personnel: international patterns and motivations for use.

Dietary supplements, products that contain one or more dietary ingredients, or their components, typically in a concentrated form, are often consumed for purported health and performance benefits. The frequency, forms and motivations for dietary supplement use may differ between civilian and military populations. The objective of this manuscript is to review patterns and trends in dietary supplement use in military personnel from the USA, France, the UK and Slovenia. Main findings indicate that dietary supplement use may be higher in military personnel as compared with civilian populations. Factors motivating dietary supplement use in military personnel include physical and cognitive performance, recovery, and the maintenance of body weight and composition, whereas civilian populations tend to be motivated by health and wellness. Commonly used dietary supplements in military populations, such as proteins and amino acids, may be associated with performance, body weight management and body composition. The relationship between dietary supplement use and the frequency and severity of adverse events, along with the potential benefits of dietary supplements, has not been carefully assessed in military populations and should be the focus of future studies.

Incorporating Music Therapy With Acupuncture in Managing Cancer Pain at an Acupuncture Practice.

BACKGROUND: Complementary and alternative medicine encompasses various nonpharmacologic interventions for managing pain, such as acupuncture and music therapy. Few studies have combined these two interventions in the management of cancer-related pain. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this evidence-based project was to compare acupuncture-only therapy versus dual therapy (acupuncture and music therapy) on pain intensity scores in patients with cancer. METHODS: This evidence-based project included 102 participants at a private acupuncture practice. One group had acupuncture only for six weeks, and another had six weeks of acupuncture and music therapy. The Numeric Pain Rating Scale was used to assess pain before and after the interventions. FINDINGS: Findings showed that both groups had clinically and statistically significant improvements in pain intensity scores. Although a significant difference was not noted between the two groups, acupuncture and music therapy were each found to be effective for managing cancer-related pain.

Indigenous herbal medicine use and its associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care at public health facilities in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of indigenous herbal medicine use and its associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) at public health facilities in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia. DESIGN: A facility-based cross-sectional study design. SETTING: The study was conducted in seven public health facilities (one referral hospital, three urban and three rural health centres) in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia, from October to November 2022. PARTICIPANTS: 628 pregnant women of any gestational age who had been on ANC follow-up at selected public health facilities were included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Prevalence of indigenous herbal medicine (users vs non-users) and associated factors. RESULTS: The study revealed that 47.8% (95% CI 43.8% to 51.6%) of pregnant women used herbal medicines. Lack of formal education (adjusted OR, AOR 5.47, 95% CI 2.40 to 12.46), primary level (AOR 4.74, 95% CI 2.15 to 10.44), housewives (AOR 4.15, 95% CI 1.83 to 9.37), number of ANC visits (AOR 2.58, 95% CI 1.27 to 5.25), insufficient knowledge (AOR 4.58, 95% CI 3.02 to 6.77) and favourable perception (AOR 2.54, 95% CI 1.71 to 3.77) were factors significantly associated with herbal medicine use. The most commonly used herbs were garden cress (Lepidium sativum) (32%), bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) (25.2%), moringa (Moringa oleifera) (24.5%). Common indications were related to gastrointestinal problems, blood pressure and sugar. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of herbal medicine use is high (one in two pregnant women) and significantly associated with education level, occupation, ANC visits, knowledge and perceptions. The study's findings are helpful in advancing comprehension of herbal medicines using status, types and enforcing factors. It is essential that health facilities provide herbal counselling during ANC visits, and health regulatory bodies ought to raise awareness and implement interventions to lower the risks from over-the-counter herbal medicine use by pregnant women.

Evidence about art-based interventions for Indigenous people: a scoping review protocol.

INTRODUCTION: Indigenous people experience a unique set of health inequalities and social determinants that can negatively affect their physical health, mental health and wellness. This critical state of affairs is compounded by the limited availability of culturally appropriate care services and treatments for the different groups. In response, increasing numbers of studies are turning their focus to art-based interventions and how these might benefit Indigenous lives. The proposed scoping review aims to map this growing field of research. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This scoping review is based on the Arksey and O'Malley methodological framework and the subsequent enhancements proposed by Levac et al. Academic databases and grey literature sources will be searched to identify appropriate studies for inclusion. The search strategies of all databases were tested on 25 April 2024. This will be followed by a two-step screening process to be conducted by two researchers and consisting of (1) a title and abstract review and (2) a full-text review. Data from the selected studies will be extracted, collated and charted to summarise all relevant interventions, their outcomes and key findings. An Indigenous research partner will be hired as a consultant, and the research will be further informed by other stakeholders. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study is the first step in a research programme involving working with Indigenous artists to codesign a pilot art-based intervention aimed at improving mental health and wellness among Indigenous people. The scoping review will identify the specific components in documented art-based interventions that have proven beneficial to this group. Since it will draw exclusively on data from published and public sources, no ethics approval is required. The results will be disseminated through knowledge translation activities with Indigenous organisations and art therapy groups; a summary of the results will also be distributed through Indigenous networks.

Therapeutic potential of berries in age-related neurological disorders.

Aging significantly impacts several age-related neurological problems, such as stroke, brain tumors, oxidative stress, neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and dementia), neuroinflammation, and neurotoxicity. Current treatments for these conditions often come with side effects like hallucinations, dyskinesia, nausea, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal distress. Given the widespread availability and cultural acceptance of natural remedies, research is exploring the potential effectiveness of plants in common medicines. The ancient medical system used many botanical drugs and medicinal plants to treat a wide range of diseases, including age-related neurological problems. According to current clinical investigations, berries improve motor and cognitive functions and protect against age-related neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, berries may influence signaling pathways critical to neurotransmission, cell survival, inflammation regulation, and neuroplasticity. The abundance of phytochemicals in berries is believed to contribute to these potentially neuroprotective effects. This review aimed to explore the potential benefits of berries as a source of natural neuroprotective agents for age-related neurological disorders.