Two experiments tested the influences of vivid imagery and person schemata on eyewitness accuracy. Participants watched an event sequence including actors performing stereotype-consistent and inconsistent actions. Additionally, participants either read descriptions of actions (Experiment 1) or vividly imagined actions (Experiment 2). After either 30 minutes or 2 days, recognition memory, source memory, and remember/know judgements were made. After 2 days, false alarms to imagined events increased, relative to the 30-minute test; those false alarms were more often misattributed to stereotype-consistent actors, relative to the same actions in the reading condition. In addition, the accompanying remember judgements were higher for false alarms to imagined events, relative to read events, regardless of stereotype consistency. Overall the results suggest that, over time, vivid imagery reinforces schema activation, increasing stereotype-consistent false memories.

Memory. 2008 Feb;16(2):97-114. Kleider HM, Goldinger SD, Knuycky L. Department of Psychology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30030, USA. hkleider@gsu.edu

Norman Marcus M.D. is Board Certified by the American Academy of Pain Medicine, Clinical Associate Professor of Anesthesiology and Psychiatry and Director of Muscle Pain Research at NYU School of Medicine. He is the past president of The Academy of Pain Medicine and Director of the Norman Marcus Pain Institute. He lives in New York City.

Most research establishing the relationship between cognition and functioning in schizophrenia has been conducted cross-sectionally, leaving unanswered the question of whether there is a predictive relationship between temporal change in cognition and temporal change in functioning. In the present study, we used longitudinal mixed models to examine the relationship between change in cognition and change in Quality of Life (QLS), as measured over three time-points spanning a 12-month period, for 151 schizophrenia outpatients participating in work therapy with or without cognitive remediation. Memory and executive function changes were significant predictors of improved QLS total. Whereas the relationship between memory and QLS total was in the expected direction, with improvements in memory associated with improvements in QLS, the relationship between executive function and QLS was negative, with QLS improvements associated with declines in executive function. Similar patterns were found for individual QLS domains. Finally, there were positive cross-sectional relationships between QLS and hours worked as well as gender (female gender associated with better QLS). Lag models supported these results. Differences between these findings and previous studies are discussed along with functional assessment issues and the potential moderators of the relationship between cognitive change and functioning.

Fiszdon JM, Choi J, Goulet J, Bell MD. VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States. Schizophr Res. 2008 Jul 24.

BACKGROUND: Interrogative suggestibility and compliance are important psychological vulnerabilities during interrogation. The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship of suggestibility and compliance with childhood and current symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Compliance has not been studied previously in relation to ADHD. A further aim was to investigate the relationship between ADHD and the reporting of having made a false confession to the police. METHOD: The participants were 90 male prisoners, all of whom had completed the Gudjonsson Suggestibility and Compliance Scales (GSS and GCS) within 10 days of admission to the prison. Childhood ADHD symptoms were screened by the Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS) and current adult symptoms by the DSM-IV Checklist criteria for ADHD. RESULTS: Half of the prisoners (50%) were found on screening to meet criteria for ADHD in childhood and, of those, over half (60%) were either fully symptomatic or in partial remission of their symptoms. ADHD symptoms were found to be significantly associated with compliance, but not with suggestibility. The relationship with compliance was stronger (effect size) in relation to current than childhood symptoms. The ADHD symptomatic groups were significantly more likely to claim that they had made a false confession to the police in the past. CONCLUSIONS: The findings raise important questions about the potential vulnerability of adults with ADHD symptoms in terms of their ability to cope with interrogation.

Psychol Med. 2008 Jul;38(7):1037-44. Epub 2008 Feb 14. Gudjonsson GH, Sigurdsson JF, Bragason OO, Newton AK, Einarsson E. Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK. g.gudjonsson@iop.kcl.ac.uk

Michelle May, M.D., a physician and recovered yoyo dieter is the founder of the Am I Hungry? non-diet weight management program. This comprehensive approach builds on the concepts of intuitive and mindful eating. She has spoken widely on this innovative approach to weight management at hundreds of medical conferences, hospitals, corporate wellness programs, health clubs, spas, schools, and community organizations. She is also co-author of the children's book, H is for Healthy - Weight Management for Kids.

For more information, visit: www.MichelleMayMD.com.

The memory (and hypnosis) lab at the University of New South Wales investigates a broad range of memory topics. We try to find innovative methods from cognitive and clinical psychology to address theoretical and empirical questions about memory. We aso use hypnosis as one major methodological tool in our investigations of memory (as well as other cognitive processes). In this paper, we review the projects currently underway in our memory (and hypnosis) lab.

Cogn Process. 2005 Dec;6(4):272-81. Epub 2005 Aug 26. Barnier AJ, Bryant RA, Campbell L, Cox R, Harris C, Hung L, Maccallum F, Sharman SJ. School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia, A.Barnier@unsw.edu.au.

BACKGROUND: Little information exists on treatment effectiveness in antisocial personality disorder (ASPD). We investigated the feasibility and effectiveness of carrying out a randomized controlled trial of cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) in men with ASPD who were aggressive.MethodThis was an exploratory two-centre, randomized controlled trial in a community setting. Fifty-two adult men with a diagnosis of ASPD, with acts of aggression in the 6 months prior to the study, were randomized to either treatment as usual (TAU) plus CBT, or usual treatment alone. Change over 12 months of follow-up was assessed in the occurrence of any act of aggression and also in terms of alcohol misuse, mental state, beliefs and social functioning. RESULTS: The follow-up rate was 79%. At 12 months, both groups reported a decrease in the occurrence of any acts of verbal or physical aggression. Trends in the data, in favour of CBT, were noted for problematic drinking, social functioning and beliefs about others. CONCLUSIONS: CBT did not improve outcomes more than usual treatment for men with ASPD who are aggressive and living in the community in this exploratory study. However, the data suggest that a larger study is required to fully assess the effectiveness of CBT in reducing aggression, alcohol misuse and improving social functioning and view of others. It is feasible to carry out a rigorous randomized controlled trial in this group.

Davidson KM, Tyrer P, Tata P, Cooke D, Gumley A, Ford I, Walker A, Bezlyak V, Seivewright H, Robertson H, Crawford MJ. Faculty of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Gartnavel Royal Hospital, Glasgow, UK. Psychol Med. 2008 Jul 30:1-9.

PURPOSE: The aims of the present study were to: (1) examine the rate of Social Phobia among adults who stutter; (2) study the effects of speech restructuring treatment on social anxiety; (3) study the effects on anxiety and stuttering of a CBT package for social anxiety. METHOD: Thirty-two adults with chronic stuttering were randomly allocated to receive either: (1) speech restructuring following a CBT package for social anxiety, or; (2) speech restructuring alone. Data were obtained on a variety of speech and psychological measures at pre-treatment, post- CBT, post- speech restructuring and 12 months follow-up. RESULTS: Sixty percent of our cohort were diagnosed with Social Phobia. Speech restructuring treatment alone had no impact on the Social Phobia of our cohort at 12 months follow-up. At follow-up, participants who had received CBT showed: (1) no Social Phobia; (2) greater improvements than control subjects on a range of psychological measures of anxiety and avoidance. However, the CBT package made no difference to the speech outcomes of those with Social Phobia. CONCLUSIONS: The CBT treatment was associated with significant and sustained improvements in psychological functioning, but did not improve fluency.

Menzies RG, O'Brian S, Onslow M, Packman A, St Clare T, Block S. Australian Stuttering Research Centre, The University of Sydney. J Speech Lang Hear Res. 2008 Jul 29.

Previous reviews of outpatient interventions for adolescent substance abuse have been limited in the extent to which they considered the methodological quality of individual studies. The authors assessed 31 randomized trials of outpatient interventions for adolescent substance abuse on 14 attributes of trial quality. A quality of evidence score was calculated for each study and used to compare the evidence in support of different outpatient interventions. Across studies, frequently reported methodological attributes included presence of an active comparison condition, reporting of baseline data, use of treatment manuals, and verification of self-reported outcomes. Infrequently reported attributes included power and determination of sample size, techniques to randomize participants to condition, specification of hypotheses and primary outcomes, use of treatment adherence ratings, blind assessment, and inclusion of dropouts in the analysis. Treatment models with evidence of immediate superiority in 2 or more methodologically stronger studies included ecological family therapy, brief motivational interventions, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2008 APA, all rights

Becker SJ, Curry JF. Department of Psychology and Neuroscience. J Consult Clin Psychol. 2008 Aug;76(4):531-43.

OBJECTIVE: This research examined the relationship between plasma oxytocin (OT), arginine vasopressin (AVP), cortisol, and anxiety before, during, and after a massage in healthy adult men. DESIGN: A randomized, controlled, crossover, repeated-measures, prospective experimental design with subjects acting as their own controls was used. SETTING: The research was conducted at a Midwestern University. SUBJECTS: Fourteen (14) healthy men between the ages of 19 and 45 years of age were randomly assigned to the order of two conditions: a 20-minute massage (experimental condition) or a 20-minute reading period (control condition). METHODS: Blood samples were collected at time intervals during each data collection session. Plasma OT, AVP, and cortisol levels were evaluated by enzyme immunoassay (EIA). The Spielberger State Anxiety Inventory (SAI) and autonomic measures were recorded pre- and postcondition. RESULTS: Both experimental (massage) and control (reading) conditions elicited a significant increase in plasma OT levels (p < 0.05) and a decrease in SAI score (p < 0.05) from pre- to postintervention. A significant positive correlation was detected between plasma AVP and plasma cortisol (r = 0.63, n = 24, p = 0.001) in the massage group, whereas a significant positive correlation between plasma AVP and the SAI (r = 0.47, n = 25, p = 0.016) was observed in the reading group. No significant differences were observed for the autonomic measures between conditions. CONCLUSIONS: The finding that plasma OT levels increased in both the massage and reading groups, suggests that tactile stimulus is not necessary for OT release. The results suggest that another unknown factor associated with reduction of anxiety may be involved.

Bello D, White-Traut R, Schwertz D, Pournajafi-Nazarloo H, Carter CS. Baxter Healthcare Corporation, Deerfield, IL 60015, USA. debra_bello@baxter.com J Altern Complement Med. 2008 May;14(4):387-94.

OBJECTIVE: To assess effect of acupuncture combined with massage of sole on sleeping quality of the patient with insomnia. METHODS: Fifty-eight cases of insomnia were randomly divided into an observation group (n = 32) and a control group (n = 26). The observation group were treated with oral administration of Alprazolam, massage of sole, and acupuncture at Zhongwan (CV 12), Guanyuan (CV 4), Qihai (CV 6), etc. on the abdomen as main points; the control group were treated with Alprazolam. Clinical therapeutic effects, and scores for Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS) were assessed before and after treatment in the two groups. RESULTS: The effective rate was 93.75 in the observation group and 88.46% in the control group with no significant difference between the two groups; after treatment, there were significant or very significant differences in scores for various factors in the PSQI, SAS and SDS (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Abdominal acupuncture as main combined with massage of sole can obviously improve sleeping quality of the patient with insomnia.

Zhong ZG, Cai H, Li XL, Lü D. Department of TCM, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical College, Zhanjiang 524001, China. Zhongguo Zhen Jiu. 2008 Jun;28(6):411-3.

We explore a new distinction between the future, prospective memory system being investigated in current neuroscience and the past, retrospective memory system, which was the original theoretical foundation of therapeutic hypnosis, classical psychoanalysis, and psychotherapy. We then generalize a current evolutionary theory of sleep and dreaming, which focuses on the future, prospective memory system, to conceptualize a new evolutionary perspective on therapeutic hypnosis and brief psychotherapy. The implication of current neuroscience research is that activity-dependent gene expression and brain plasticity are the psychobiological basis of adaptive behavior, consciousness, and creativity in everyday life as well as psychotherapy. We summarize a case illustrating how this evolutionary perspective can be used to quickly resolve problems with past obstructive procrastination in school to facilitate current and future academic success.

Am J Clin Hypn. 2008 Apr;50(4):343-50. Rossi E, Erickson-Klein R, Rossi K. Ernest@ErnestRossi.com

Flying phobias are common. Mishaps and accidents to aircraft make many travellers apprehensive and fearful of flying, a condition which most overcome by rationalisation and thought blocking, others develop a phobia for flying.This condition responds well to hypnotherapy which can be however be time consuming. Limited session brief, focused, selective hypnotherapy can however cure disabling fear, disturbed conditioned responses and avoidance behaviour.

Vertex. 2007 Jul-Aug;18(74):268-71. Mc Intosh I. St. Ninians Travel Health Research Centre, Stirling, Scotland. iain.mcintosh@virgin.net

The current investigation addresses the manner through which trauma affects basic memory and self-system processes. True and false recall for self-referent stimuli were assessed in conjunction with dissociative symptomatology among abused (N=76), neglected (N=92), and nonmaltreated (N=116) school-aged children. Abused, neglected, and nonmaltreated children did not differ in the level of processing self-schema effect or in the occurrence and frequency of false recall. Rather, differences in the affective valence of false recall emerged as a function of maltreatment subtype and age. Regarding dissociation, the abused children displayed higher levels of dissociative symptomatology than did the nonmaltreated children. Although abused, neglected, and nonmaltreated children did not exhibit differences in the valence of their self-schemas, positive and negative self-schemas were related to self-integration differently among the subgroups of maltreatment. Negative self-schemas were associated with increased dissociation among the abused children, whereas positive self-schemas were related to increased dissociation for the neglected children. Thus, positive self-schemas displayed by the younger neglected children were related to higher dissociation, suggestive of defensive self-processing. Implications for clinical intervention are underscored.

Dev Psychopathol. 2008 Winter;20(1):213-32. Valentino K, Cicchetti D, Rogosch FA, Toth SL. University of Rochester, USA. kristin.valentino@yale.edu

Mark Dworkin, LCSW is a recognized expert in EMDR. His book EMDR and the Relational Imperative has been used as a resource for advanced EMDR thinking in many continents and he has presented one and two day workshops in the USA and Europe as well as being a presenter at many EMDRIA conferences. Mr. Dworkin has been an EMDR practitioner for 17 years; on the faculty of the EMDR Institute for 13 years; he has served on the Board of Directors of EMDRIA as well as several committees; and is a HAP Trainer in Training. He received his certificate in psychoanalysis from the Manhattan Institute for Psychoanalysis, and trained in Gestalt therapy with Laura Perls and Isadore From. He is former faculty at the Mt. Sinai School of Medicine (1983-90) and worked for the Bx. VA Medical Center from 1975-87. He first worked with veterans of the Vietnam War suffering with PTSD. He has a practice in East Meadow Long Island and Torrington, Connecticut. He lives with his wife of 25 years in their Long Island home with their mentally challenged dog, Zody, and sees his two sons when they visit from college.

For more information, visit: www.MarkDworkinLCSW.com.

Because quitting smoking is clearly linked to preventing health problems such as lung cancer, research on health message framing based on prospect theory suggests that gain-framed messages (i.e., emphasizing the benefits of quitting smoking) would be more persuasive in promoting cessation than loss-framed messages (i.e., emphasizing the costs of continuing to smoke). However, because women tend to anticipate greater perceived risk from quitting smoking than men, this may affect how receptive they are to specific message framing interventions. Data from 249 participants (129 females, 120 males) in a clinical trial of message framing for smoking cessation with bupropion were used to examine how gender differences in perceptions of the risks associated with quitting influence the effects of framed interventions using number of days to smoking relapse as the criterion. Perceived risk of quitting scores were dichotomized using a median split for the entire sample. Women reported a higher perceived risk of cessation than men. Participants who anticipated high risks associated with quitting smoking reported fewer days to relapse. Further, females in the gain-framed condition who reported low perceived risks of cessation had a greater number of days to relapse, as opposed to females in the loss-framed condition. These findings suggest that message framing interventions for smoking cessation should consider the influence of gender and risk perceptions associated with quitting on the effectiveness of framed interventions.

Nicotine Tob Res. 2008 Jan;10(1):195-200. Toll BA, Salovey P, O'Malley SS, Mazure CM, Latimer A, McKee SA. Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT 06511, USA. benjamin.toll@yale.edu

ABSTRACTAdvanced stage cancer patients experience debilitating physical symptoms as well as profound emotional and spiritual struggles. Advanced disease is accompanied by multiple changes and losses for the patient and the family. Palliative care focuses on the relief of overall suffering of patients and families, including symptom control, psychosocial support, and the meeting of spiritual needs. Music therapy and reflexology are complementary therapies that can soothe and provide comfort. When used conjointly, they provide a multifaceted experience that can aid in the reduction of anxiety, pain, and isolation; facilitate communication between patients, family members, and staff; and provide the potential for a more peaceful dying experience for all involved. This article addresses the benefits of the combined use of music therapy and reflexology. Two case studies are presented to illustrate the application and benefits of this dual approach for patients and their families regarding adjustment to the end of life in the presence of anxiety and cognitive impairment.

Magill L, Berenson S. School of Music, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada. Palliat Support Care. 2008 Sep;6(3):289-96.

BACKGROUND: A guideline for the treatment and diagnostic procedures in fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) was developed in cooperation with 10 German medical and psychological associations and 2 patient self-help groups. METHODS: A systematic literature search including all controlled studies of evaluated multicomponent therapy was performed in the Cochrane Collaboration Reviews (1993-12/2006), Medline (1980-12/2006), PsychInfo (1966-12/2006) and Scopus (1980-12/ 2006). Levels of evidence were assigned according to the classification system of the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine. Grading of the strengths of recommendations was done according to the German program for disease management guidelines. Standardized procedures to reach a consensus on recommendations were used. RESULTS: Cognitive and operant behavioral therapy is strongly recommended (grade A). Guided imagery/hypnotherapy and written emotional disclosure are recommended (grade B). CONCLUSIONS: Psychotherapeutic programs tailored to FMS subgroups should be developed and tested.

Schmerz. 2008 Jun;22(3):295-302. Thieme K, Häuser W, Batra A, Bernardy K, Felde E, Gesmann M, Illhardt A, Settan M, Wörz R, Köllner V. Institut für Neuropsychologie und Klinische Psychologie, Zentralinstitut für Seelische Gesundheit Mannheim, Universität Heidelberg , J5, 68159 Mannheim. thieme@zi-mannheim.de

Liz Lipski, PhD, CCN, CHN, is board certified in Clinical Nutrition & Holistic Nutrition, the author of Digestive Wellness, & Digestive Wellness for Children, & founder of Access to Health Experts. She's the Director of Doctoral Studies at Hawthorn University. Dr. Lipski is a member of the Board of Directors for the National Association of Nutrition Professionals, the Nutrition Advisory Board and faculty for the Institute for Functional Medicine. She's in private practice in Asheville, NC.

For more information, visit: www.InnovativeHealing.com.

A defensive dominant was created in rabbits using rhythmic electrocutaneous stimulation of the left forelimb at a frequency of 0.5 Hz. After stimulation ended, the latent excitation state was tested using sound stimuli. Animals responded either with increases in non-rhythmic paw muscle activity or with rhythmic twitching of the paw at a frequency close to that of the electrocutaneous stimulation. After hypnotization, the incidence of rhythmic responses to the stimulation testing the dominant focus increased, while the incidence of non-rhythmic responses decreased.

Neurosci Behav Physiol. 2008 Jan;38(1):23-30. Galashina AG, Kulikov MA, Bogdanov AV. Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow.

This study compares the effectiveness of panic control treatment (PCT) with that of a psychoeducational supportive treatment (PE-SUP) in treating panic disorder among a veteran sample with a primary diagnosis of chronic posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Thirty-five patients randomized to receive 10 individual sessions of either PCT or PE-SUP underwent assessments at pretreatment, at 1-week posttreatment, and at a 3-month follow-up. Intent-to-treat analyses of covariance showed that PCT participants significantly improved on panic severity at posttreatment and panic fear at the 3-month follow-up. The PCT group also showed significant reductions in anxiety sensitivity at posttreatment and follow-up compared with that of the PE-SUP group. A significantly higher proportion of persons (63%) in the PCT group was panic free by the follow-up period compared with that of the PE-SUP group (19%). Patient self-report and clinician ratings showed no changes in general anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms in either group. These findings indicated that PCT was superior to an active control therapy in reducing the frequency, severity, and distress associated with panic disorder and suggested that brief cognitive-behavioral therapy for panic is effective for persons with chronic PTSD. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2008 APA, all rights reserved).

Teng EJ, Bailey SD, Chaison AD, Petersen NJ, Hamilton JD, Dunn NJ. Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center. J Consult Clin Psychol. 2008 Aug;76(4):704-10.

Dysfunction of the frontal-subcortical circuits has been the most common finding in the pathophysiology of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and recent neuropsychological studies have shown cognitive impairments in OCD. To clarify the pathophysiology of OCD without the confounding effects of medication, we investigated the alterations of brain function in OCD patients and changes after clinical improvement due solely to behavior therapy. The participants were 11 outpatients with OCD and 19 normal controls. The patients received 12 weeks of behavior therapy. We investigated the differences in the behavioral performance and functional magnetic resonance imaging results during the Stroop test in the patients and normal controls, and their changes after treatment in the patients. The patients showed less activation in the anterior cingulate gyrus and cerebellum than control subjects. Following significant improvement in OC symptoms, the cerebellum and parietal lobe showed increased activation, and the orbitofrontal cortex, middle frontal gyrus, and temporal regions showed decreased activation during the Stroop task, and performance of the task itself improved. Our findings suggest that dysfunction of the posterior brain regions, especially the cerebellum, is involved in the pathogenesis of OCD, and that normalization in function can occur with improvement of OC symptoms.

Nabeyama M, Nakagawa A, Yoshiura T, Nakao T, Nakatani E, Togao O, Yoshizato C, Yoshioka K, Tomita M, Kanba S. Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan. Psychiatry Res. 2008 Jul 28.

Although massage administered between workouts has been suggested to improve recovery and subsequent performance, its application between bouts of repetitive supramaximal anaerobic efforts within a given workout has received little attention. The purpose of the study compared different forms of very short rest periods administered between resistance exercise sets of individual workouts on subsequent performance. With a within-subjects design methodology, subjects (n = 30) performed three workouts that were identical in terms of the exercises (45 degrees leg press, prone leg curl, seated shoulder press, standing barbell curl), number of sets, and the resistance employed. For each workout, subjects received one of the following treatments between sets: 1 minute of rest as they stood upright, 30 seconds of rest as they stood upright, or 30 seconds of concurrent massage and body part elevation (MBPE), which entailed petrassage of the exercised limbs in a raised and supported position in an attempt to abate fatigue and enhance recovery from the previous set. Subjects were instructed to perform as many repetitions as possible for each set. For each exercise, two dependent variables were calculated: a total work/elapsed time ratio and the cumulative number of repetitions performed. For each exercise, one-way repeated-measures analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc test revealed the following total work/elapsed time results: 1 minute rest <30 seconds' rest, 30 seconds' MBPE. For each exercise, cumulative repetition results were as follows: 1 minute rest >30 seconds' rest, 30 seconds' MBPE. Results imply that rest period duration exerts more influence on resistance exercise performance than MBPE. Those who seek improved resistance exercise performance should pay particular attention to rest period durations.

Caruso JF, Coday MA. Exercise Science Program, University of Tulsa, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA. john-caruso@utulsa.edu J Strength Cond Res. 2008 Mar;22(2):575-82.

Abstract Background: The wide use of herbal plants and essential oils for the prevention and treatment of diseases dates back to ancient times. However, the scientific basis for the beneficial effects of such plants and oils has not been precisely clarified. Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of aromatherapy body treatment on healthy subjects. Design: We compared the physiologic and psychologic effects of aromatherapy body treatment (E), massage treatment with carrier oil alone (C), and rest in healthy adults. Subjects: Seven (7) female and 6 male volunteers participated as subjects. Interventions: Each subject underwent 3 trials, in which the Advanced Trail Making Test (ATMT) was given as a stress-inducing task before and after 1 of 3 treatments. Outcome measures: The State Anxiety Inventory (SAI), the Visual Analog Scale, and the Face Scale were used to assess anxiety, feelings, and mood, respectively. Results: After the treatments, the SAI score and the feelings of fatigue were decreased, the positive and comfortable feelings were increased, and mood improved significantly in C and E. Furthermore, significant declines in the feelings of mental and total fatigue were maintained even after the second ATMT in E. On the other hand, the cortisol concentration in the saliva did not show significant changes in any of the trials. Secretory immunoglobulin A levels in the saliva increased significantly after all treatments. Conclusions: We conclude that massage treatments, irrespective of the presence of essential oils, are more advantageous than rest in terms of psychologic or subjective evaluations but not in terms of physiologic or objective evaluations. Furthermore, as compared to massage alone, the aromatherapy body treatment provides a stronger and continuous relief from fatigue, especially fatigue of mental origin.

Takeda H, Tsujita J, Kaya M, Takemura M, Oku Y. Department of Physiology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Hyogo, Japan. J Altern Complement Med. 2008 Jul 20.

The authors investigated whether heart-rate variability can serve as a device for real-time quantitative measurement of hypnotic depth. This study compared the continuous self-rated hypnotic depth (SRHD) of 10 volunteers with heart rate, amplitude, and frequency changes from a time-frequency analysis of heart-rate variability (HRV). The authors found significant linear relationships between SRHD and the high-frequency (HF) component of HRV. Specifically, SRHD was correlated negatively with the frequency of the HF component and positively with the amplitude of the HF component. Unexpectedly, the average temporal trend in SRHD fit well (R(2) = .99) to the step response of a first-order system with a 4-minute time constant. The findings suggest that the reactivity of the parasympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system reflected in HRV could become part of a real-time, quantitative measure of hypnotic depth.

Int J Clin Exp Hypn. 2008 Jan;56(1):1-18. Diamond SG, Davis OC, Howe RD. Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA. Solomon.G.Diamond@Dartmouth.edu

Laurie Leitch, PhD is Co-Founder and Co-Director of the Trauma Resource Institute (TRI), a non-profit trauma training organization. She is also Director of Research for the Foundation for Human Enrichment. She has spent over 25 years as a psychotherapist using competency-based, mind-body psychotherapy. She has extensive experience providing clinical training and consultation in diverse settings. She has particular interest in "at risk" populations including survivors of catastrophic events and provided treatment and clinical training in southern Thailand after the tsunami, in Louisiana following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and in Rwanda with post-genocide counselors. Dr. Leitch's research has included social program and clinical evaluations for national foundations, the federal government, and non-profit organizations. Her specialty is cross-cultural training and research with populations who have experienced complex trauma.

For more information, visit: www.TraumaResourceInstitute.com.

Many skin disorders have a significant psychosomatic component. Focused history-taking coupled with hypnoanalysis using ideomotor finger signals to detect positive responses to one or more of 7 common triggering or exacerbating factors permits systematic diagnosis of the presence or absence of a significant psychosomatic component. If no factor is positive, a psychosomatic component to the skin disorder can likely be excluded. If one or two of the 7 factors are positive and it is possible to identify the initiating event, treatment by reframing with suggestions in hypnosis may succeed in defusing the associated negative emotional impact associated with the psychosomatic component of the skin disorder. This may be sufficient to uproot and weed out the problem. However, if a multiple of the 7 factors are positive as in the included case report, referral to an appropriate psychotherapist is recommended.

Am J Clin Hypn. 2007 Oct;50(2):131-6. Shenefelt PD. Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA. pshenefe@health.usf.edu

Mirror neuron system (MNS) represents one of the most important discoveries of cognitive neuroscience in the past decade, and it has been found to involve in multiple aspects of brain functions including action understanding, imitation, language understanding, empathy, action prediction and speech evolution. This manuscript reviewed the function of MNS in action understanding as well as language evolution, and specifically assessed its roles as the bridge from body language to fluent speeches. Then we discussed the speech defects of autism patients due to the disruption of MNS. Finally, given that MNS is plastic in adult brain, we proposed MNS targeted therapy provides an efficient rehabilitation approach for brain damages conditions as well as autism patients.

Chen W, Yuan TF. Department of Psychology; Institute of Cognition and Behavioral Neuroscience, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 310018, China; Department of Anatomy, The University of Hong Kong, Li Kai Shing Faculty of Medicine, Hong Kong; E-mail: yuantf@hku.hk. Neurosci Bull. 2008 Aug;24(4):259-64.

This exploratory, descriptive study, done retrospectively from perinatal medical records, compared childbirth outcomes in one obstetrician's caseload between 50 women who elected antepartal hypnosis preparation (usually a 5-class series) and 51 who did not. The groups were demographically similar. To achieve similar numbers to the hypnosis group, the control group was randomly selected from the women in the caseload who opted not to take hypnosis preparation, based on characteristics of parity and delivery mode. Prenatal hypnosis preparation resulted in significantly less use of sedatives, analgesia, and regional anesthesia during labor and in higher 1-minute neonatal Apgar scores. Other physiologic and outcome measures did not reveal statistical significance, although some trends were of clinical interest. Well-controlled studies are warranted for clinicians to offer hypnosis more frequently as a pain relief option for childbirth. Additional information provided includes pragmatic, clinical, and cost information about incorporating hypnosis into a physician's practice.

Am J Clin Hypn. 2007 Oct;50(2):109-19. VandeVusse L, Irland J, Healthcare WF, Berner MA, Fuller S, Adams D. Marquette University College of Nursing, Milwaukee, WI 53201-1881, USA. leona.vandevusse@mu.edu

This article summarizes the search for efficacious hypnotic treatments. Eighteen major meta analyses were reviewed and the results evaluated using the criteria of Chambless & Hollon, (1998). The analysis identified 32 disorders for which hypnosis can be considered a possible treatment, 5 for which it seems effective, and 2 for which it appears specific. If clinicians use hypnosis in the situations where it seems to be efficacious, and systematically expand the list of conditions where it will be helpful, the results will be even more impressive for the 100th anniversary of this Journal.

Am J Clin Hypn. 2008 Jul;51(1):29-36. Wark DM. University of Minnesota, USA. wark@umn.edu

AIM: This paper is a report of a systematic review to evaluate the efficacy of reflexology in any condition. BACKGROUND: Anecdotal evidence has shown potential benefits of reflexology in a variety of health conditions. However, the efficacy of reflexology has yet to be determined. DATA SOURCES: Cochrane library, PubMed, MEDLINE, EBM review, ProQuest Medical Bundle and SCOPUS databases were searched using the following medical subject headings or key words: reflexology, foot reflexotherapy, reflexological treatment, foot massage and zone therapy. Chinese articles were searched through the Chinese electronic periodical services and Wangfane database. The publication date was limited from 1996 to 2007. REVIEW METHODS: Studies were selected if they were written in English or Chinese, used a controlled clinical trial design, used reflexology as a stand-alone modality, and reported such outcomes as symptoms relief, quality of life and patients' perceptions of reflexology. Study quality was reviewed based on the evidence rating system of the United States Preventive Services Task Force, and studies with the evidence rating of II-2 fair or above were included in this review. RESULTS: Among the five studies suitable for review, there was only one report of a statistically significant treatment effect. Among the 12 outcome variables examined, the treatment effect size for urinary symptoms was large, whereas the effect size for other conditions was negligible. CONCLUSION: There is no evidence for any specific effect of reflexology in any conditions, with the exception of urinary symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis. Routine provision of reflexology is therefore not recommended.

Wang MY, Tsai PS, Lee PH, Chang WY, Yang CM. Graduate Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan. J Adv Nurs. 2008 Jun;62(5):512-20.

Exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) can be caused by novel or unaccustomed exercise and results in a temporary decrease in muscle force production, a rise in passive tension, increased muscle soreness and swelling, and an increase in intramuscular proteins in blood. Consequently, EIMD can have a profound effect on the ability to perform subsequent bouts of exercise and therefore adhere to an exercise training programme. A variety of interventions have been used prophylactically and/or therapeutically in an attempt to reduce the negative effects associated with EIMD. This article focuses on some of the most commonly used strategies, including nutritional and pharmacological strategies, electrical and manual therapies and exercise. Long-term supplementation with antioxidants or beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate appears to provide a prophylactic effect in reducing EIMD, as does the ingestion of protein before and following exercise. Although the administration of high-dose NSAIDs may reduce EIMD and muscle soreness, it also attenuates the adaptive processes and should therefore not be prescribed for long-term treatment of EIMD. Whilst there is some evidence that stretching and massage may reduce muscle soreness, there is little evidence indicating any performance benefits. Electrical therapies and cryotherapy offer limited effect in the treatment of EIMD; however, inconsistencies in the dose and frequency of these and other interventions may account for the lack of consensus regarding their efficacy. Both as a cause and a consequence of this, there are very few evidence-based guidelines for the application of many of these interventions. Conversely, there is unequivocal evidence that prior bouts of eccentric exercise provide a protective effect against subsequent bouts of potentially damaging exercise. Further research is warranted to elucidate the most appropriate dose and frequency of interventions to attenuate EIMD and if these interventions attenuate the adaptation process. This will both clarify the efficacy of such strategies and provide guidelines for evidence-based practice.

Howatson G, van Someren KA. School of Human Sciences, St Mary's University College, Twickenham, UK. howatsong@smuc.ac.uk Sports Med. 2008;38(6):483-503.

Massage therapy is increasingly available as a supportive therapy to patients in medical centers providing cancer treatment. This article provides an overview of the evidence base relevant to the use of massage with the intended goal of alleviating symptoms and side effects experienced by cancer patients. Collectively, the available data support the view that massage, modified appropriately, offers potential beneficial effects for cancer patients in terms of reducing anxiety and pain and other symptoms. Replication of preliminary studies with larger, more homogeneous patient samples and rigorous study designs will help to clarify which massage modalities have the most potential benefit for which patients before, during, and after specific types of cancer treatment.

Myers CD, Walton T, Small BJ. Integrative Medicine, Health Outcomes and Behavior Program, Moffitt Cancer Center, 12902 Magnolia Drive, MRC-PSY, Tampa, FL 33612, USA. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am. 2008 Aug;22(4):649-60.

BACKGROUND: With increasing survival estimates for cystic fibrosis (CF) long-term management has become an important focus. Psychological interventions are largely concerned with adherence to treatment, emotional and social adjustments and quality of life. We are unaware of any relevant systematic reviews. OBJECTIVES: Assess whether psychological interventions for CF provide significant psychosocial and physical benefits in addition to standard care. SEARCH STRATEGY: Trials were identified from two Cochrane trial registers (CF and Genetic Disorders Group; Depression, Anxiety and Neurosis Group), Ovid MEDLINE and PsychINFO; unpublished trials were located through professional networks and Listserves. Most recent search: September 2007. SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised controlled trials of a broad range of psychological interventions in children and adults with CF and their immediate family. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two authors independently selected relevant trials and assessed their methodological quality. MAIN RESULTS: The review includes 13 studies (five new at this update) representing data from 529 participants. Studies mainly assessed behavioural and educational interventions:1. gene pre-test education counselling for relatives of those with CF;2. biofeedback, massage and music therapy to assist physiotherapy;3. behavioural and educational interventions to improve dietary intake and airway clearance;4. self-administration of medication and education to promote independence, knowledge and quality of life; and5. systemic interventions promoting psychosocial functioning.A substantial proportion of outcomes were educational or behavioural relating to issues of adherence, change in physical status or other specific treatment concerns during the chronic phase of the disease.Some evidence was found for relative's acceptance of a genetic test for carrier status when using home-based rather than clinic-based information leaflets and testing. There is some evidence that behavioural interventions improve emotional outcomes in people with CF and their carers, and that psychoeducational interventions improve knowledge in the short term. There was no consistent effect on lung function, although one small study showed that biofeedback-assisted breathing re-training helped improve some lung function measurements. Some studies point to educational and behavioural interventions aiding nutrition and growth in people with CF. Currently there is insufficient evidence for interventions aimed at other aspects of the disease process. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Currently no clear evidence exists on the best psychological interventions to help people with CF and their carers manage the disease. Trials of interventions to improve adherence to treatment are needed. Multicentre approaches, with consequent funding implications, will increase the sample size of trials and enhance the power and precision of their findings.

Glasscoe CA, Quittner AL. Academic Child Mental Health Unit, Royal Liverpool Children's Hospital, Eaton Road, Liverpool, UK, L12 2AP. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2008 Jul 16;(3):CD003148.

Currently CEO and founder of Robertson Technology companies including NxOpinion, LLC, InfoDx Incorporated, Robertson Research Institute, Robertson Institute, Ltd. and Robertson Wellness, LLC, Dr. Robertson is dedicated to improving lives using healthcare technology; passionately pursuing its distribution to all countries in need. A world renown expert for over 20 years in biochemistry-focused, behavioral medicine treatment philosophies, Dr. Robertson develops worldwide wellness programs to enhance potential and maximize health, as well as clinical programs to address recovery from compulsive disorders, depression and addictions. Developer of the National Treatment Protocol for Behavioral Emergencies and Consultant for the National Treatment Protocol for Cardiovascular Emergencies for Emergency Medical Services; Dr. Robertson is highly sought for consultations to professional athletic programs and major corporations throughout the world. Clientele include General Motors, Fuji, Dow Corning, United Airlines, Black Dot and the U.S. Department of Defense. Expert lecturer to the American Medical Association on brain chemistry and behavior; Dr. Robertson's theories are widely published in professional journals and expressed within multiple best-seller books. Dr. Robertson's technological envisioning expanded to incorporate state-of-the-art medical decision support software in 2003. NxOpinion, cited by Microsoft CEO as the most comprehensive interactive medical diagnostic and treatment tool available, is one of the best applications of Microsoft technology to real world problems. Dr. Robertson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy from Ferris State University and a Doctor of Pharmacology degree from the University of Michigan.

For more information, visit: www.RobertsonInstitute.org.

The purpose of the present study was to examine chiropractic utilization following a sport-related injury among National Team members and other high level Taekwondo athletes. METHODS: Retrospective surveys were conducted among Canadian male and female Taekwondo athletes (Group A, n = 60) competing in a national tournament and National Taekwondo team athletes (Group B, n = 16) at a training camp. RESULTS: A response rate of 46.7% (Group A) and 100% (Group B) was achieved. Twenty five percent (n = 4) of Group A athletes reported never seen a doctor of chiropractic (DC) regarding their injuries. Over 12% (n = 2) reported visiting a DC often, while just over 6% (n = 1) reported that they usually visited the DC following an injury. When injured, over 36% (n = 7) of the National Team members visit their family physician, over 15% (n = 3) visit a chiropractor or physiotherapist and the remaining athletes (n = 6) equally visit osteopaths, massage therapists, or athletic therapist following an injury. CONCLUSION: There is a lack of information surrounding chiropractic utilization in the majority of sports and minimal research published regarding the health care utilization of Taekwondo athletes. Chiropractors, and particularly those with extensive athlete contact, should endeavour to further utilization studies.

Kazemi M, Shearer H. Associate Professor, Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Email: mkazemi@cmcc.ca. JCCA J Can Chiropr Assoc. 2008 Jun;52(2):96-109.

Joe Bavonese, PhD is a Licensed Psychologist and Business Coach in Michigan. Joe is the Founder and Director of the Relationship Institute in Royal Oak, Michigan, an outpatient mental health clinic with ten psychotherapists that helps singles, couples and parents create healthy relationships. Joe is also the Co-Founder and Co-Director of Uncommon Practices, which helps health care and other service providers create their Ideal Practices through the study and application of state-of-the-art business, marketing and technology principles.

Palliative care is care that is given to patients and their significant others who are experiencing life-threatening or life-altering illnesses by providing emotional, spiritual, and physical support. Patients can continue to receive aggressive medical treatment while receiving palliative care and recovery is possible. Pain control is a top priority in palliative care. Non-pharmacological interventions have also been shown to be effective in palliative care as well. Palliative care is truly a holistic, collaborative practice engaging many disciplines in the care of the patient and their love ones.

Geoghan DA. J Pract Nurs. 2008 Spring;58(1):6-9; quiz 10-1.

Objective:To study the effect of maternal massage therapy on hospital stay in very-low-birth-weight infants who were already submitted to skin-to-skin care.Study Design:A randomized study was performed including infants of birth weight >/=750 and Mendes EW, Procianoy RS. Department of Maternal-Infant Nursing, Nursing School, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil [2] 3Newborn Section, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. J Perinatol. 2008 Jul 17.

OBJECTIVE: To observe the clinical therapeutic effects of acupuncture on urinary retention. METHODS: 36 cases of urinary retention were treated by acupuncture at the following points: 1) Qugu (CV 2), Zhongji (CV 3) Guanyuan (CV 4), Sanyinjiao (SP 6) and Yinlingquan (SP 9); 2) Shenshu (BL 23), Pangguangshu (BL 28), Ciliao (BL 32) and Weiyang (BL 39). RESULTS: 30 cases were cured, 4 cases improved and 2 cases failed, with a curative rate of 83.33% and a total effective rate of 94.44%. CONCLUSIONS: Acupuncture is affirmatively effective in treating urinary retention.

Zhang D. College of Acupuncture and Massage, Guangzhou TCM University, Guangzhou 510405, China. J Tradit Chin Med. 2008 Jun;28(2):83-5.