Abstract Title: Music Therapy Reduces Radiotherapy-Induced Fatigue in Patients With Breast or Gynecological Cancer: A Randomized Trial. Abstract Source: Integr Cancer Ther. 2018 Apr 1:1534735418757349. Epub 2018 Apr 1. PMID: 29633652 Abstract Author(s): Tereza Raquel Alcântara-Silva, Ruffo de Freitas-Junior, Nilceana Maya Aires Freitas, Wanderley de Paula Junior, Delson José da Silva, Graziela Dias Pinheiro Machado, Mayara Kelly Alves Ribeiro, Jonathas Paiva Carneiro, Leonardo Ribeiro Soares Article Affiliation: Tereza Raquel Alcântara-Silva Abstract: PURPOSE: To investigate the influence of music therapy on the reduction of fatigue in women with breast or gynecological malignant neoplasia during radiotherapy, since it is one of the most frequent side effects of this type of treatment, and may interfere with self-esteem, social activities, and quality of life. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial (control group [CG] and music therapy group [MTG]) to assess fatigue, quality of life, and symptoms of depression in women undergoing radiotherapy using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy: Fatigue (FACT-F) version 4, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G) version 4, and Beck Depression Inventory in 3 separate times, namely, during the first week of radiotherapy, on the week of the intermediary phase, and during the last week of radiotherapy. Individual 30- to 40-minute sessions of music therapy with the presence of a trained music therapist were offered to participants. RESULTS: In this study, 164 women were randomized and 116 (63 CG and 53 MTG) were included in the analyses, with mean age of 52.90 years (CG) and 51.85 years (MTG). Participants in the MTG had an average of 10 music therapy sessions, totaling 509 sessions throughout the study. FACT-F results were significant regarding Trial Outcome Index ( P = .011), FACT-G ( P = .005), and FACT-F ( P = .001) for the MTG compared with the CG. CONCLUSIONS: Individual music therapy sessions may be effective to reduce fatigue related to cancer and symptoms of depression, as well as to improve quality of life for women with breast or gynecological cancer undergoing radiotherapy. Further well-designed research studies are needed to adequately determine the effects of music therapy on fatigue. Article Published Date : Mar 31, 2018

Abstract Title: The Impact of Combined Music and Tai Chi on Depressive Symptoms Among Community-Dwelling Older Persons: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial. Abstract Source: Issues Ment Health Nurs. 2018 Feb 13:1-5. Epub 2018 Feb 13. PMID: 29436896 Abstract Author(s): S J Liao, M P Tan, M C Chong, Y P Chua Article Affiliation: S J Liao Abstract: BACKGROUND: The effectiveness of pharmacological treatment may be limited in older persons. Several studies using Tai Chi or music therapy separately confirmed positive effects in the reduction of depressive symptoms. We conducted a cluster randomized controlled trial to evaluate the possible synergistic effect of combined music and Tai Chi on depressive symptoms. METHODS: One hundred and seven older adults with mild to moderate depressive symptoms were recruited from Ya'an city. Fifty-five participants were cluster randomized to combined music and Tai Chi group for three months, while the other fifty-two individuals were randomized to the control group that entailed routine health education delivered monthly by community nurses. The primary outcome of depressive symptoms was measured with the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) at baseline and monthly for three months. RESULTS: At three-month follow-up, a statistically significant improvement in depressive symptoms was found in the intervention group compared with control group (F(3,315) = 69.661, P<0.001). Following adjustments for socio-demographic data, the true effect of intervention on depressive symptoms was significant (F = 41.725, P<0.01,η= 0.574). CONCLUSIONS: Combined music and Tai Chi reduced depressive symptoms among community-dwelling older persons. This represents an economically viable solution to the management of depression in highly populous developing nations. Article Published Date : Feb 12, 2018

Abstract Title: State-trait anxiety levels during pregnancy and foetal parameters following intervention with music therapy. Abstract Source: J Affect Disord. 2018 05 ;232:17-22. Epub 2018 Feb 13. PMID: 29471206 Abstract Author(s): J Garcia-Gonzalez, M I Ventura-Miranda, M Requena-Mullor, T Parron-Carreño, R Alarcon-Rodriguez Article Affiliation: J Garcia-Gonzalez Abstract: BACKGROUND: Research indicates that anxiety during pregnancy may be a risk factor for the development of alterations in the mental health of the pregnant woman and of obstetric complications. OBJECTIVE: to investigate the effect of music therapy on maternal anxiety, before and after a non-stress test (NST), and the effect of maternal anxiety on the birthing process and birth size. METHODS: 409 nulliparous women coming for routine prenatal care were randomized in the third trimester to receive either music therapy (n = 204) or no music therapy (n = 205) during an NST. Maternal anxiety was assessed using the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory before and after the NST. RESULTS: After the NST, the women from the music group showed significantly lower scores in state anxiety (OR = 0.87; p<0.001) as well as trait anxiety (p<0.001) than the control group. Furthermore, the pregnant women from the music group presented lower levels of state-trait anxiety than the control group in relation to the variables of birth process, and higher birth weight and chest circumference in the newborn (OR = 3.5 and OR = 0.81, respectively; p<0.05). LIMITATIONS: This study was limited by the fact that it was a single-centre study; the observers conducting the NST were not blinded to the allocation, although neither midwife had any knowledge of the maternal anxiety scores, and we could not apply the double-blind method due to the nature of the observation. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings confirm that music therapy intervention during pregnancy could reduce elevated state-trait anxiety levels during the third trimester. Further research into the influence of music therapy as intervention on maternal anxiety and on the birthing process and birth size is required during pregnancy. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2017

Abstract Title: EEG-Based Analysis of the Emotional Effect of Music Therapy on Palliative Care Cancer Patients. Abstract Source: Front Psychol. 2018 ;9:254. Epub 2018 Mar 2. PMID: 29551984 Abstract Author(s): Rafael Ramirez, Josep Planas, Nuria Escude, Jordi Mercade, Cristina Farriols Article Affiliation: Rafael Ramirez Abstract: Music is known to have the power to induce strong emotions. The present study assessed, based on Electroencephalography (EEG) data, the emotional response of terminally ill cancer patients to a music therapy intervention in a randomized controlled trial. A sample of 40 participants from the palliative care unit in the Hospital del Mar in Barcelona was randomly assigned to two groups of 20. The first group [experimental group (EG)] participated in a session of music therapy (MT), and the second group [control group (CG)] was provided with company. Based on our previous work on EEG-based emotion detection, instantaneous emotional indicators in the form of a coordinate in the arousal-valence plane were extracted from the participants' EEG data. The emotional indicators were analyzed in order to quantify (1) the overall emotional effect of MT on the patients compared to controls, and (2) the relative effect of the different MT techniques applied during each session. During each MT session, five conditions were considered:(initial patient's state before MT starts),(passive listening),(active listening),(relaxation), and(final patient's state). EEG data analysis showed a significant increase in valence (= 0.0004) and arousal (= 0.003) betweenandin the EG. No significant changes were found in the CG. This results can be interpreted as a positive emotional effect of MT in advanced cancer patients. In addition, according to pre- and post-intervention questionnaire responses, participants in the EG also showed a significant decrease in tiredness, anxiety and breathing difficulties, as well as an increase in levels of well-being. No equivalent changes were observed in the CG. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2017

Abstract Title: Integrative Music Therapy: A Healing Intervention. Abstract Source: J Christ Nurs. 2018 Apr/Jun;35(2):100-105. PMID: 29521906 Abstract Author(s): Thomas Bryan Barnes Article Affiliation: Thomas Bryan Barnes Abstract: Music plays a significant role in the lives of individuals across the lifespan. Some healthcare providers may not appreciate music therapy and the positive benefits it can have on the environment, patients, caregivers, and healthcare staff. Integrative Music Therapy (IMT) has proven to be effective in multiple settings, offering therapy for behavioral, emotional, physiological, psychological, and psychosocial needs. IMT, performed by a trained, certified professional (MT-BC), does not seek to replace medication or other procedures, but works synergistically with provided healthcare. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2017

Abstract Title: Binaural auditory beats affect long-term memory. Abstract Source: Psychol Res. 2017 Dec 8. Epub 2017 Dec 8. PMID: 29222722 Abstract Author(s): Miguel Garcia-Argibay, Miguel A Santed, José M Reales Article Affiliation: Miguel Garcia-Argibay Abstract: The presentation of two pure tones to each ear separately with a slight difference in their frequency results in the perception of a single tone that fluctuates in amplitude at a frequency that equals the difference of interaural frequencies. This perceptual phenomenon is known as binaural auditory beats, and it is thought to entrain electrocortical activity and enhance cognition functions such as attention and memory. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of binaural auditory beats on long-term memory. Participants (n = 32) were kept blind to the goal of the study and performed both the free recall and recognition tasks after being exposed to binaural auditory beats, either in the beta (20 Hz) or theta (5 Hz) frequency bands and white noise as a control condition. Exposure to beta-frequency binaural beatsyielded a greater proportion of correctly recalled words and a higher sensitivity index d' in recognition tasks, while theta-frequency binaural-beat presentation lessened the number of correctly remembered words and the sensitivity index. On the other hand, we could not find differences in the conditional probability for recall given recognition between beta and theta frequencies and white noise, suggesting that the observed changes in recognition were due to the recollection component. These findings indicate that the presentation of binaural auditory beats can affect long-term memory both positively and negatively, depending on the frequency used. Article Published Date : Dec 07, 2017

Abstract Title: Short-Term Effects of Binaural Beats on EEG Power, Functional Connectivity, Cognition, Gait and Anxiety in Parkinson's Disease. Abstract Source: Int J Neural Syst. 2017 Nov 13:1750055. Epub 2017 Nov 13. PMID: 29297265 Abstract Author(s): Gerardo Gálvez, Manuel Recuero, Leonides Canuet, Francisco Del-Pozo Article Affiliation: Gerardo Gálvez Abstract: We applied rhythmic binaural sound to Parkinson's Disease (PD) patients to investigate its influence on several symptoms of this disease and on Electrophysiology (Electrocardiography and Electroencephalography (EEG)). We conducted a double-blind, randomized controlled study in which rhythmic binaural beats and control were administered over two randomized and counterbalanced sessions (within-subjects repeated-measures design). Patients ([Formula: see text], age [Formula: see text], stage I-III Hoehn&Yahr scale) participated in two sessions of sound stimulation for 10[Formula: see text]min separated by a minimum of 7 days. Data were collected immediately before and after both stimulations with the following results: (1) a decrease in theta activity, (2) a general decrease in Functional Connectivity (FC), and (3) an improvement in working memory performance. However, no significant changes were identified in the gait performance, heart rate or anxiety level of the patients. With regard to the control stimulation, we did not identify significant changes in the variables analyzed. The use of binaural-rhythm stimulation for PD, as designed in this study, seems to be an effective, portable, inexpensive and noninvasive method to modulate brain activity. This influence on brain activity did not induce changes in anxiety or gait parameters; however, it resulted in a normalization of EEG power (altered in PD), normalization of brain FC (also altered in PD) and working memory improvement (a normalizing effect). In summary, we consider that sound, particularly binaural-rhythmic sound, may be a co-assistant tool in the treatment of PD, however more research is needed to consider the use of this type of stimulation as an effective therapy. Article Published Date : Nov 12, 2017

Abstract Title: Brain responses to 40-Hz binaural beat and effects on emotion and memory. Abstract Source: Int J Psychophysiol. 2017 Oct ;120:96-107. Epub 2017 Jul 21. PMID: 28739482 Abstract Author(s): Nantawachara Jirakittayakorn, Yodchanan Wongsawat Article Affiliation: Nantawachara Jirakittayakorn Abstract: Gamma oscillation plays a role in binding process or sensory integration, a process by which several brain areas beside primary cortex are activated for higher perception of the received stimulus. Beta oscillation is also involved in interpreting received stimulus and occurs following gamma oscillation, and this process is known as gamma-to-beta transition, a process for neglecting unnecessary stimuli in surrounding environment. Gamma oscillation also associates with cognitive functions, memory and emotion. Therefore, modulation of the brain activity can lead to manipulation of cognitive functions. The stimulus used in this study was 40-Hz binaural beat because binaural beat induces frequency following response. This study aimed to investigate the neural oscillation responding to the 40-Hz binaural beat and to evaluate working memory function and emotional states after listening to that stimulus. Two experiments were developed based on the study aims. In the first experiment, electroencephalograms were recorded while participants listened to the stimulus for 30min. The results suggested that frontal, temporal, and central regions were activated within 15min. In the second experiment, word list recall task was conducted before and after listening to the stimulus for 20min. The results showed that, after listening, the recalled words were increase in the working memory portion of the list. Brunel Mood Scale, a questionnaire to evaluate emotional states, revealed changes in emotional states after listening to the stimulus. The emotional results suggested that these changes were consistent with the induced neural oscillations. Article Published Date : Sep 30, 2017

Abstract Title: Effects of music on seizure frequency in institutionalized subjects with severe/profound intellectual disability and drug-resistant epilepsy. Abstract Source: Psychiatr Danub. 2017 Sep ;29(Suppl 3):399-404. PMID: 28953798 Abstract Author(s): Patrizia D'Alessandro, Marta Giuglietti, Antonella Baglioni, Norma Verdolini, Nicola Murgia, Massimo Piccirilli, Sandro Elisei Article Affiliation: Patrizia D'Alessandro Abstract: BACKGROUND: Approximately one-third of patients with epilepsy continue to experience seizures despite adequate therapy with antiepileptic drugs. Drug-resistant epilepsy is even more frequent in subjects with intellectual disability. As a result, several non-pharmacological interventions have been proposed to improve quality of life in patients with intellectual disability and drug-resistant epilepsy. A number of studies have demonstrated that music can be effective at reducing seizures and epileptiform discharges. In particular, Mozart's sonata for two pianos in D major, K448, has been shown to decrease interictal EEG discharges and recurrence of clinical seizures in patients with intellectual disability and drug-resistant epilepsy as well. The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of Mozart's music on seizure frequency in institutionalized epileptic subjects with profound/severe intellectual disability. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Twelve patients (10 males and 2 females) with a mean age of 21.6 years were randomly assigned to two groups in a cross-over design; they listened to Mozart K448 once a day for six months. RESULTS: A statistically significant difference was observed between the listening period and both baseline and control periods. During the music period, none of the patients worsened in seizure frequency; one patient was seizure-free, five had a greater than 50% reduction in seizure frequency and the remaining showed minimal (N=2) or no difference (N=4). The average seizure reduction compared to the baseline was 20.5%. Our results are discussed in relation to data in the literature considering differences in protocol investigation. CONCLUSIONS: Music may be considered a useful approach as add-on therapy in some subjects with profound intellectual disability and drug-resistant epilepsy and can provide a new option for clinicians to consider, but further large sample, multicenter studies are needed to better understand the characteristics of responders and non-responders to this type of non-pharmacological intervention. Article Published Date : Aug 31, 2017

Abstract Title: The effect of gamma-enhancing binaural beats on the control of feature bindings. Abstract Source: Exp Brain Res. 2017 Jul ;235(7):2125-2131. Epub 2017 Apr 13. PMID: 28409319 Abstract Author(s): Lorenza S Colzato, Laura Steenbergen, Roberta Sellaro Article Affiliation: Lorenza S Colzato Abstract: Binaural beats represent the auditory experience of an oscillating sound that occurs when two sounds with neighboring frequencies are presented to one's left and right ear separately. Binaural beats have been shown to impact information processing via their putative role in increasing neural synchronization. Recent studies of feature-repetition effects demonstrated interactions between perceptual features and action-related features: repeating only some, but not all features of a perception-action episode hinders performance. These partial-repetition (or binding) costs point to the existence of temporary episodic bindings (event files) that are automatically retrieved by repeating at least one of their features. Given that neural synchronization in the gamma band has been associated with visual feature bindings, we investigated whether the impact of binaural beats extends to the top-down control of feature bindings. Healthy adults listened to gamma-frequency (40 Hz) binaural beats or to a constant tone of 340 Hz (control condition) for ten minutes before and during a feature-repetition task. While the size of visuomotor binding costs (indicating the binding of visual and action features) was unaffected by the binaural beats, the size of visual feature binding costs (which refer to the binding between the two visual features) was considerably smaller during gamma-frequency binaural beats exposure than during the control condition. Our results suggest that binaural beats enhance selectivity in updating episodic memory traces and further strengthen the hypothesis that neural activity in the gamma band is critically associated with the control of feature binding. Article Published Date : Jun 30, 2017

Abstract Title: The Effect of Binaural Beat Technology on the Cardiovascular Stress Response in Military Service Members With Postdeployment Stress. Abstract Source: J Nurs Scholarsh. 2017 Jul ;49(4):411-420. Epub 2017 May 23. PMID: 28544507 Abstract Author(s): MeLisa A Gantt, Stephanie Dadds, Debra S Burns, Dale Glaser, Angelo D Moore Article Affiliation: MeLisa A Gantt Abstract: PURPOSE: To assess the efficacy of embedded theta brainwave frequency in music using binaural beat technology (BBT) compared to music alone on the cardiovascular stress response in military service members with postdeployment stress. DESIGN: A double-blinded, randomized, pre- and postintervention trial. METHODS: Seventy-four military services members with complaint of postdeployment stress were randomized to either music with BBT or music alone. Each group listened to their respective intervention for a minimum of 30 min at bedtime for three consecutive nights a week for a total of 4 weeks. A 20-min pre- and postintervention heart rate variability (HRV) stress test and daily perceived stress via diaries assessed intervention efficacy. FINDINGS: There was a statistical difference (p = .01) in low-frequency HRV between the music with BBT group compared to the music only group. The average low-frequency HRV decreased in the music with BBT group 2.5 ms2 /Hz, while in the music only group it increased 7.99 ms2 /Hz. There was also a significant difference (p = .01) in the high-frequency HRV measures, with the music with BBT group showing an increase in HRV by 2.5 ms2 /Hz compared to the music only group, which decreased by 7.64 ms2 /Hz. There were significant (p = .01) differences found in total power measures, with the music only group decreasing by 1,113.64 ms2 /Hz compared to 26.68 ms2 /Hz for the music with BBT group. Finally, daily diaries consistently showed that participants who used BBT reported less stress over the course of the 4 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: When placed under an acute stressor, participants who used music with embedded BBT showed a decrease in sympathetic responses and an increase in parasympathetic responses, while participants who used music alone had the opposite effect. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The use of BBT in the theta brainwave frequency embedded into music decreases physical and psychological indications of stress. BBT embedded with beta and delta frequencies may improve cognitive functioning and sleep quality, respectively. Article Published Date : Jun 30, 2017

Abstract Title: Music as an Adjunct to Opioid-Based Analgesia. Abstract Source: J Med Toxicol. 2017 Jun 23. Epub 2017 Jun 23. PMID: 28646359 Abstract Author(s): Peter R Chai, Stephanie Carreiro, Megan L Ranney, Ketki Karanam, Marko Ahtisaari, Robert Edwards, Kristin L Schreiber, Lubabah Ben-Ghaly, Timothy B Erickson, Edward W Boyer Article Affiliation: Peter R Chai Abstract: Epidemic increases in opioid use in the USA and globally highlight the need for effective adjunctive therapies to opioid-based analgesia. Given the shortcomings of behavioral adjuncts to opioid-based pain treatment, an urgent need exists for pain-related behavioral interventions that resonate with broad patient populations, can be delivered confidentially in any environment, and can incorporate new content automatically. Understanding the potential for automated behavioral therapies like music therapy in modulating the experience of pain may unlock methods to transition patients to lower doses of pharmacologic therapy or provide alternatives to opioids during acute exacerbations of pain. This manuscript describes the neurologic mechanism of action, theoretical basis, and potential applications of personalized music as a smartphone-based mHealth intervention for acute and chronic pain management. Article Published Date : Jun 22, 2017

Abstract Title: Effectiveness of binaural beats in reducing preoperative dental anxiety. Abstract Source: Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2017 Mar 18. Epub 2017 Mar 18. PMID: 28325532 Abstract Author(s): B K Isik, A Esen, B Büyükerkmen, A Kilinç, D Menziletoglu Article Affiliation: B K Isik Abstract: Binaural beats are an auditory illusion perceived when two different pure-tone sine waves are presented one to each ear at a steady intensity and frequency. We evaluated their effectiveness in reducing preoperative anxiety in dentistry. Sixty patients (30 in each group) who were to have impacted third molars removed were studied (experimental group: 20 women and 10 men, mean (range) age 24 (18-35) years, and control group: 22 women and 8 men, mean (range) age 28 (15-47) years). All patients were fully informed about the operation preoperatively, and their anxiety recorded on a visual analogue scale (VAS). The local anaesthetic was given and the patients waited for 10minutes, during which those in the experimental group were asked to listen to binaural beats through stereo earphones (200Hz for the left ear and 209.3Hz for the right ear). No special treatment was given to the control group. In both groups anxiety was then recorded again, and the tooth removed in the usual way. The paired t test and t test were used to assess the significance of differences between groups. The degree of anxiety in the control group was unchanged after the second measurement (p=0.625), while that in the experimental group showed a significant reduction in anxiety (p=0.001). We conclude that binaural beats may be useful in reducing preoperative anxiety in dentistry. Article Published Date : Mar 17, 2017

Abstract Title: The effects of massage and music on pain, anxiety and relaxation in burn patients: Randomized controlled clinical trial. Abstract Source: Burns. 2017 Feb 3. Epub 2017 Feb 3. PMID: 28169080 Abstract Author(s): T Najafi Ghezeljeh, F Mohades Ardebili, F Rafii Article Affiliation: T Najafi Ghezeljeh Abstract: AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of massage and music on pain intensity, anxiety intensity and relaxation level in burn patients. INTRODUCTION: Pain and anxiety are common among burn patients, but there are many physical and psychological consequences. METHODS: This randomized controlled clinical trial with factorial design 2×2 included 240 burn patients admitted at Shahid Motahari Burns Hospital, Tehran, Iran, between September 2013 and May 2015. The patients were allocated into the following groups: (i) control (n=60) receiving the conventional primary care, (ii) music group (n=60) receiving their favorite songs, (iii) massage group (n=60) receiving Swedish massage, and (iv) music-plus-massage group (n=60) receiving a combination of their favorite songs and Swedish massage, for 20min once a day for 3 consecutive days, using random permuted blocks of sizes 4 with a 1:1 ratio. To collect the data before and afterthe intervention, a specific Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was applied for pain intensity, anxiety intensity, and relaxation level. The data were analyzed using SPSS, version 21. RESULTS: Our findings showed a decrease in pain and anxiety intensity and an increase in relaxation level in all three intervention groups as compared to the control group, indicating there was no significant difference among the interventions applied. Furthermore, following application of each intervention, pain and anxiety intensity decreased and relaxation level increased in the intervention groups as compared to before intervention. CONCLUSION: Our results revealed that music, massage and a combination of both interventions were effective on reducing pain and anxiety intensity and increasing relaxation level. Due to easy, low-cost and availability of the interventions applied, these complementary therapies are suggested for the burn patients. Although application of a single complementary therapy is cost-effective, further studies are required to determine the most effective and cost-effective method to improve the burn care. Article Published Date : Feb 02, 2017

Abstract Title: The effect of binaural beats on verbal working memory and cortical connectivity. Abstract Source: J Neural Eng. 2017 Feb 1 ;14(2):026014. Epub 2017 Feb 1. PMID: 28145275 Abstract Author(s): Christine Beauchene, Nicole Abaid, Rosalyn Moran, Rachel A Diana, Alexander Leonessa Article Affiliation: Christine Beauchene Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Synchronization in activated regions of cortical networks affect the brain's frequency response, which has been associated with a wide range of states and abilities, including memory. A non-invasive method for manipulating cortical synchronization is binaural beats. Binaural beats take advantage of the brain's response to two pure tones, delivered independently to each ear, when those tones have a small frequency mismatch. The mismatch between the tones is interpreted as a beat frequency, which may act to synchronize cortical oscillations. Neural synchrony is particularly important for working memory processes, the system controlling online organization and retention of information for successful goal-directed behavior. Therefore, manipulation of synchrony via binaural beats provides a unique window into working memory and associated connectivity of cortical networks. APPROACH: In this study, we examined the effects of different acoustic stimulation conditions during an N-back working memory task, and we measured participant response accuracy and cortical network topology via EEG recordings. Six acoustic stimulation conditions were used: None, Pure Tone, Classical Music, 5 Hz binaural beats, 10 Hz binaural beats, and 15 Hz binaural beats. MAIN RESULTS: We determined that listening to 15 Hz binaural beats during an N-Back working memory task increased the individual participant's accuracy, modulated the cortical frequency response, and changed the cortical network connection strengths during the task. Only the 15 Hz binaural beats produced significant change in relative accuracy compared to the None condition. SIGNIFICANCE: Listening to 15 Hz binaural beats during the N-back task activated salient frequency bands and produced networks characterized by higher information transfer as compared to other auditory stimulation conditions. Article Published Date : Jan 31, 2017

Abstract Title: The Impact of Monaural Beat Stimulation on Anxiety and Cognition. Abstract Source: Front Hum Neurosci. 2017 ;11:251. Epub 2017 May 15. PMID: 28555100 Abstract Author(s): Leila Chaieb, Elke C Wilpert, Christian Hoppe, Nikolai Axmacher, Juergen Fell Article Affiliation: Leila Chaieb Abstract: Application of auditory beat stimulation has been speculated to provide a promising new tool with which to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and to enhance cognition. In spite of reportedly similar EEG effects of binaural and monaural beats, data on behavioral effects of monaural beats are still lacking. Therefore, we examined the impact of monaural beat stimulation on anxiety, mood and memory performance. We aimed to target states related to anxiety levels and general well-being, in addition to long-term and working memory processes, using monaural beats within the range of main cortical rhythms. Theta (6 Hz), alpha (10 Hz) and gamma (40 Hz) beat frequencies, as well as a control stimulus were applied to healthy participants for 5 min. After each stimulation period, participants were asked to evaluate their current mood state and to perform cognitive tasks examining long-term and working memory processes, in addition to a vigilance task. Monaural beat stimulation was found to reduce state anxiety. When evaluating responses for the individual beat frequencies, positive effects on state anxiety were observed for all monaural beat conditions compared to control stimulation. Our results indicate a role for monaural beat stimulation in modulating state anxiety and are in line with previous studies reporting anxiety-reducing effects of auditory beat stimulation. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2016

Abstract Title: Reviewing the Effectiveness of Music Interventions in Treating Depression. Abstract Source: Front Psychol. 2017 ;8:1109. Epub 2017 Jul 7. PMID: 28736539 Abstract Author(s): Daniel Leubner, Thilo Hinterberger Article Affiliation: Daniel Leubner Abstract: Depression is a very common mood disorder, resulting in a loss of social function, reduced quality of life and increased mortality. Music interventions have been shown to be a potential alternative for depression therapy but the number of up-to-date research literature is quite limited. We present a review of original research trials which utilize music or music therapy as intervention to treat participants with depressive symptoms. Our goal was to differentiate the impact of certain therapeutic uses of music used in the various experiments. Randomized controlled study designs were preferred but also longitudinal studies were chosen to be included. 28 studies with a total number of 1,810 participants met our inclusion criteria and were finally selected. We distinguished between passive listening to music (record from a CD or live music) (79%), and active singing, playing, or improvising with instruments (46%). Within certain boundaries of variance an analysis of similar studies was attempted. Critical parameters were for example length of trial, number of sessions, participants' age, kind of music, active or passive participation and single- or group setting. In 26 studies, a statistically significant reduction in depression levels was found over time in the experimental (music intervention) group compared to a control (= 25) or comparison group (= 2). In particular, elderly participants showed impressive improvements when they listened to music or participated in music therapy projects. Researchers used group settings more often than individual sessions and our results indicated a slightly better outcome for those cases. Additional questionnaires about participants confidence, self-esteem or motivation, confirmed further improvements after music treatment. Consequently, the present review offers an extensive set of comparable data, observations about the range of treatment options these papers addressed, and thus might represent a valuable aid for future projects for the use of music-based interventions to improve symptoms of depression. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2016

Abstract Title: Brain Responses to a 6-Hz Binaural Beat: Effects on General Theta Rhythm and Frontal Midline Theta Activity. Abstract Source: Front Neurosci. 2017 ;11:365. Epub 2017 Jun 28. PMID: 28701912 Abstract Author(s): Nantawachara Jirakittayakorn, Yodchanan Wongsawat Article Affiliation: Nantawachara Jirakittayakorn Abstract: A binaural beat is a beat phenomenon that is generated by the dichotic presentation of two almost equivalent pure tones but with slightly different frequencies. The brain responses to binaural beats remain controversial; therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate theta activity responses to a binaural beat by controlling factors affecting localization, including beat frequency, carrier tone frequency, exposure duration, and recording procedure. Exposure to a 6-Hz binaural beat on a 250 Hz carrier tone for 30 min was utilized in this study. Quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) was utilized as the recording modality. Twenty-eight participants were divided into experimental and control groups. Emotional states were evaluated by Brunel Mood Scale (BRMUS) before and after exposing to the stimulus. The results showed that theta activity was induced in the entire cortex within 10 min of exposure to the stimulus in the experimental group. Compared to the control group, theta activity was also induced at the frontal and parietal-central regions, which included the Fz position, and left hemisphere dominance was presented for other exposure durations. The pattern recorded for 10 min of exposure appeared to be brain functions of a meditative state. Moreover, tension factor of BRUMS was decreased in experimental group compared to control group which resembled the meditation effect. Thus, a 6-Hz binaural beat on a 250 Hz carrier tone was suggested as a stimulus for inducing a meditative state. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2016

Abstract Title: Music therapy is a potential intervention for cognition of Alzheimer's Disease: a mini-review. Abstract Source: Transl Neurodegener. 2017 ;6:2. Epub 2017 Jan 25. PMID: 28149509 Abstract Author(s): Rong Fang, Shengxuan Ye, Jiangtao Huangfu, David P Calimag Article Affiliation: Rong Fang Abstract: Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a global health issue given the increasing prevalence rate and the limitations of drug effects. As a consequent, non-pharmacological interventions are of importance. Music therapy (MT) is a non-pharmacological way with a long history of use and a fine usability for dementia patients. In this review, we will summarize different techniques, diverse clinical trials, and the mechanisms of MT as it is helpful to the cognition in AD, providing reference for future research. Many articles have demonstrated that MT can reduce cognitive decline especially in autobiographical and episodic memories, psychomotor speed, executive function domains, and global cognition. MT is a promising intervention for strategy of dementia especially of AD and it must be started as early as possible. However, more evidences with prospective, randomized, blinded, uniform and rigorous methodological investigations are needed. And we should consider to combine MT with other cognitive stimulations such as dance, physical exercise, video game, art and so on. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2016

Abstract Title: Meditation and Music Improve Memory and Cognitive Function in Adults with Subjective Cognitive Decline: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. Abstract Source: J Alzheimers Dis. 2017 ;56(3):899-916. PMID: 28106552 Abstract Author(s): Kim E Innes, Terry Kit Selfe, Dharma Singh Khalsa, Sahiti Kandati Article Affiliation: Kim E Innes Abstract: BACKGROUND: While effective therapies for preventing or slowing cognitive decline in at-risk populations remain elusive, evidence suggests mind-body interventions may hold promise. OBJECTIVES: In this study, we assessed the effects of Kirtan Kriya meditation (KK) and music listening (ML) on cognitive outcomes in adults experiencing subjective cognitive decline (SCD), a strong predictor of Alzheimer's disease. METHODS: Sixty participants with SCD were randomized to a KK or ML program and asked to practice 12 minutes/day for 3 months, then at their discretion for the ensuing 3 months. At baseline, 3 months, and 6 months we measured memory and cognitive functioning [Memory Functioning Questionnaire (MFQ), Trail-making Test (TMT-A/B), and Digit-Symbol Substitution Test (DSST)]. RESULTS: The 6-month study was completed by 53 participants (88%). Participants performed an average of 93% (91% KK, 94% ML) of sessions in the first 3 months, and 71% (68% KK, 74% ML) during the 3-month, practice-optional, follow-up period. Both groups showed marked and significant improvements at 3 months in memory and cognitive performance (MFQ, DSST, TMT-A/B; p's≤0.04). At 6 months, overall gains were maintained or improved (p's≤0.006), with effect sizes ranging from medium (DSST, ML group) to large (DSST, KK group; TMT-A/B, MFQ). Changes were unrelated to treatment expectancies and did not differ by age, gender, baseline cognition scores, or other factors. CONCLUSIONS: Findings of this preliminary randomized controlled trial suggest practice of meditation or ML can significantly enhance both subjective memory function and objective cognitive performance in adults with SCD, and may offer promise for improving outcomes in this population. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2016

Abstract Title: Music Intervention Leads to Increased Insular Connectivity and Improved Clinical Symptoms in Schizophrenia. Abstract Source: Front Neurosci. 2017 ;11:744. Epub 2018 Jan 23. PMID: 29410607 Abstract Author(s): Hui He, Mi Yang, Mingjun Duan, Xi Chen, Yongxiu Lai, Yang Xia, Junming Shao, Bharat B Biswal, Cheng Luo, Dezhong Yao Article Affiliation: Hui He Abstract: Schizophrenia is a syndrome that is typically accompanied by delusions and hallucinations that might be associated with insular pathology. Music intervention, as a complementary therapy, is commonly used to improve psychiatric symptoms in the maintenance stage of schizophrenia. In this study, we employed a longitudinal design to assess the effects of listening to Mozart music on the insular functional connectivity (FC) in patients with schizophrenia. Thirty-six schizophrenia patients were randomly divided into two equal groups as follows: the music intervention (MTSZ) group, which received a 1-month music intervention series combined with antipsychotic drugs, and the no-music intervention (UMTSZ) group, which was treated solely with antipsychotic drugs. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans were performed at the following three timepoints: baseline, 1 month after baseline and 6 months after baseline. Nineteen healthy participants were recruited as controls. An FC analysis seeded in the insular subregions and machine learning techniques were used to examine intervention-related changes. After 1 month of listening to Mozart music, the MTSZ showed increased FC in the dorsal anterior insula (dAI) and posterior insular (PI) networks, including the dAI-ACC, PI-pre/postcentral cortices, and PI-ACC connectivity. However, these enhanced FCs had vanished in follow-up visits after 6 months. Additionally, a support vector regression on the FC of the dAI-ACC at baseline yielded a significant prediction of relative symptom remission in response to music intervention. Furthermore, the validation analyses revealed that 1 month of music intervention could facilitate improvement of the insular FC in schizophrenia. Together, these findings revealed that the insular cortex could potentially be an important region in music intervention for patients with schizophrenia, thus improving the patients' psychiatric symptoms through normalizing the salience and sensorimotor networks. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2016

Abstract Title: The effect of music with and without binaural beat audio on operative anxiety in patients undergoing cataract surgery: a randomized controlled trial. Abstract Source: Eye (Lond). 2016 Nov ;30(11):1407-1414. Epub 2016 Oct 14. PMID: 27740618 Abstract Author(s): D Wiwatwongwana, P Vichitvejpaisal, L Thaikruea, J Klaphajone, A Tantong, A Wiwatwongwana, Article Affiliation: D Wiwatwongwana Abstract: PurposeTo investigate the anxiolytic effects of binaural beat embedded audio in patients undergoing cataract surgery under local anesthesia.MethodsThis prospective RCT included 141 patients undergoing cataract surgery under local anesthesia. The patients were randomized into three groups; the Binaural beat music group (BB), the plain music intervention group (MI), and a control group (ear phones with no music). Blood pressure (BP) and heart rate were measured on admission, at the beginning of and 20 min after the start of the operation. Peri-operative anxiety level was assessed using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory questionnaire (STAI).ResultsThe BB and MI groups comprised 44 patients each and the control group 47. Patients in the MI group and BB group showed significant reduction of STAIstate scores after music intervention compared with the control group (P<0.001) but the difference was not significant between the MI and BB group (STAI-S score MI group -7.0, BB group -9.0, P=0.085). Systolic BP was significantly lower in both MI (P=0.043) and BB (0.040) groups although there was no difference between the two groups (P=1.000). A significant reduction in heart rate was seen only in the BB group (BB vs control P=0.004, BB vs MI P=0.050, MI vs control P=0.303).ConclusionMusic, both with and without binaural beat, was proven to decrease anxiety level and lower systolic BP. Patients who received binaural beat audio showed additional decrease in heart rate. Binaural beat embedded musical intervention may have benefit over musical intervention alone in decreasing operative anxiety. Article Published Date : Oct 31, 2016

Abstract Title: The effect of music therapy on depression and physiological parameters in elderly people living in a Turkish nursing home: a randomized-controlled trial. Abstract Source: Aging Ment Health. 2016 Sep 3:1-7. Epub 2016 Sep 3. PMID: 27592520 Abstract Author(s): Hacer Gök Ugur, Yeşim Yaman Aktaş, Oya Sevcan Orak, Okan Saglambilen, İlknur Aydin Avci Article Affiliation: Hacer Gök Ugur Abstract: OBJECTIVE: This study was carried out in an effort to determine the effect of music therapy on depression and physiological parameters in elderly people who were living in a nursing home. METHOD: The study was a randomized controlled trial. The study sample consisted of 64 elderly people who complied with the criteria of inclusion for the study. The data were collected using the 'Elderly Information Form' and 'Geriatric Depression Scale'. The music group listened to music three days in a week during 8 weeks. The depression levels were assessed at baseline (week 0) and follow-up in the eight week. RESULTS: It was found that the difference between post-test depression scores of the two groups was found to be statistically significant (t = -2.86, p<.01). The mean scores of post-test systolic blood pressure in the music group were found to be significantly lower than those of the control group (t = -3.11, p<.05). CONCLUSION: It was concluded that music therapy decreased the depression level and systolic blood pressure in elderly people. The study results implies that music therapy can be an effective practice for public health and home care nurses attempting to reduce depression and control physiological parameters of elderly people. Article Published Date : Sep 02, 2016

Abstract Title: Influences of 432 Hz Music on the Perception of Anxiety during Endodontic Treatment: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. Abstract Source: J Endod. 2016 Sep ;42(9):1338-43. Epub 2016 Jul 16. PMID: 27430941 Abstract Author(s): Luca Di Nasso, Andrea Nizzardo, Riccardo Pace, Felicita Pierleoni, Gabriella Pagavino, Valentina Giuliani Article Affiliation: Luca Di Nasso Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Patients undergoing endodontic therapy often have severe perioperative and intraoperative anxiety, which may lead to increased perceptions of pain and vital sign instability throughout treatment. The purpose of this study was to test the influences of music, as a nonpharmacologic adjuvant, in terms of significant changes for systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and heart rate (HR) before, during, and after endodontic treatment in a population with different levels of anxiety assessed with the Corah Dental Anxiety Scale. METHODS: A total of 100 patients were recruited in the present study; before starting the endodontic treatment, the interviewer administered the Corah Dental Anxiety Scale to the participants to assess the baseline level of anxiety. Patients were randomly divided into 2 groups: the first one listened to the music and the second one did not. Before, during, and after the endodontic procedures, the vital signs (diastolic and systolic blood pressure and heart rate) were recorded. Results were collected and statistically analyzed. RESULTS: Direct contrasts between patients listening or not listening to music showed that all the measured vital signs decreased considering the overall period (during and after the canal therapy) in the group of patients listening to music (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: This study shows the effects of music therapy on vital values and on subjective perception of anxiety during endodontic therapy. Music and medicine always work together; the soothing effects of sounds and musical frequencies make this union an extraordinary tool of synergistic care. Music therapy is a valid nonpharmacologic adjuvant to anxiety perception in endodontic therapies. Article Published Date : Aug 31, 2016

Abstract Title: Music therapy and Alzheimer's disease: Cognitive, psychological, and behavioural effects. Abstract Source: Neurologia. 2016 Feb 17. Epub 2016 Feb 17. PMID: 26896913 Abstract Author(s): M Gómez Gallego, J Gómez García Article Affiliation: M Gómez Gallego Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Music therapy is one of the types of active ageing programmes which are offered to elderly people. The usefulness of this programme in the field of dementia is beginning to be recognised by the scientific community, since studies have reported physical, cognitive, and psychological benefits. Further studies detailing the changes resulting from the use of music therapy with Alzheimer patients are needed. OBJECTIVES: Determine the clinical improvement profile of Alzheimer patients who have undergone music therapy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Forty-two patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer disease underwent music therapy for 6 weeks. The changes in results on the Mini-mental State Examination, Neuropsychiatric Inventory, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Barthel Index scores were studied. We also analysed whether or not these changes were influenced by the degree of dementia severity. RESULTS: Significant improvement was observed in memory, orientation, depression and anxiety (HAD scale) in both mild and moderate cases; in anxiety (NPI scale) in mild cases; and in delirium, hallucinations, agitation, irritability, and language disorders in the group with moderate Alzheimer disease. The effect on cognitive measures was appreciable after only 4 music therapy sessions. CONCLUSIONS: In the sample studied, music therapy improved some cognitive, psychological, and behavioural alterations in patients with Alzheimer disease. Combining music therapy with dance therapy to improve motor and functional impairment would be an interesting line of research. Article Published Date : Feb 16, 2016

Abstract Title: Binaural beats increase interhemispheric alpha-band coherence between auditory cortices. Abstract Source: Hear Res. 2016 Feb ;332:233-7. Epub 2015 Nov 2. PMID: 26541421 Abstract Author(s): Marco Solcà, Anaïs Mottaz, Adrian G Guggisberg Article Affiliation: Marco Solcà Abstract: Binaural beats (BBs) are an auditory illusion occurring when two tones of slightly different frequency are presented separately to each ear. BBs have been suggested to alter physiological and cognitive processes through synchronization of the brain hemispheres. To test this, we recorded electroencephalograms (EEG) at rest and while participants listened to BBs or a monaural control condition during which both tones were presented to both ears. We calculated for each condition the interhemispheric coherence, which expressed the synchrony between neural oscillations of both hemispheres. Compared to monaural beats and resting state, BBs enhanced interhemispheric coherence between the auditory cortices. Beat frequencies in the alpha (10 Hz) and theta (4 Hz) frequency range both increased interhemispheric coherence selectively at alpha frequencies. In a second experiment, we evaluated whether this coherence increase has a behavioral aftereffect on binaural listening. No effects were observed in a dichotic digit task performed immediately after BBs presentation. Our results suggest that BBs enhance alpha-band oscillation synchrony between the auditory cortices during auditory stimulation. This effect seems to reflect binaural integration rather than entrainment. Article Published Date : Jan 31, 2016

Abstract Title: Efficacy of Theta Binaural Beats for the Treatment of Chronic Pain. Abstract Source: Altern Ther Health Med. 2016 Jan ;22(1):32-8. PMID: 26773319 Abstract Author(s): Donna D Zampi Article Affiliation: Donna D Zampi Abstract: Context• According to the National Institutes of Health, in 2011, chronic pain affected from approximately 10% to>50% of the adult population in the United States, with a cost of $61 billion to US businesses annually. Objective• The pilot study assessed the effects that an external, audio, neural stimulus of theta binaural beats (TBB) had on returning the brain neurosignature for chronic pain to homeostasis. Methods • The quantitative, experimental, repeated-measures crossover study compared the results of 2 interventions in 2 time-order sequences. An a priori analysis indicated a sample size of 28 participants was needed for a 2-way repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). Setting • The study was conducted in Richmond, VA, USA, with participants recruited from the financial sector. Participants • Thirty-six US adults with various types of chronic pain, and with a median age of 47 y, ranging in ages from 26-69 y, participated in the study. The study experienced 4 dropouts. Intervention • Participants listened to 2 recordings-one using TBB at 6 Hz (TBB intervention) and one using a placebo of anonbinaural beat tone of 300 Hz (sham intervention) for 20 min daily. Both interventions lasted 14 successive days each, with some participants hearing the TBB intervention first and the sham intervention second and some hearing them in the reverse order. Participants listened to the interventionsvia a Web site on the Internet or via a compact disc. Interviews were conducted either in person or telephonically with e-mail support. Outcome Measures • Using the West Haven-Yale Multidimensional Pain Inventory (MPI), potential changes in perceived severity of chronic pain were measured (1) at baseline; (2) after the first test at 14 d, either TBB or sham intervention; and (3) after the second test at 28 d-either TBB or sham intervention. The analysis compared the average mean for pretest and first and second posttest scores. Results • The analysis indicated a large main effect for the TBB intervention in reducing perceived pain severity, P<.001 (F2,60 = 84.98, r = 0.74). Although the TBB and the placebo interventions both reduced the pain scores, a post hoc Bonferroni correction that compared pairs of MPI scores found a 77% larger drop in the mean for the TBB intervention, from M = 4.60 at pretest to M = 2.74 at the end of both TBB periods than in the mean for the sham intervention, with a change from M = 4.60 at pretest to M = 4.17 at the end of both sham periods. Conclusions• The results supported the hypothesis that an external audio protocol of TBB was effective in reducing perceived pain severity for participants. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2015

Abstract Title: The Development of a Mindfulness-Based Music Therapy (MBMT) Program for Women Receiving Adjuvant Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer. Abstract Source: Healthcare (Basel). 2016 ;4(3). Epub 2016 Aug 9. PMID: 27517966 Abstract Author(s): Teresa Lesiuk Article Affiliation: Teresa Lesiuk Abstract: Problems with attention and symptom distress are common clinical features reported by women who receive adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer. Mindfulness practice significantly improves attention and mindfulness programs significantly reduce symptom distress in patients with cancer, and, more specifically, in women with breast cancer. Recently, a pilot investigation of a music therapy program, built on core attitudes of mindfulness practice, reported significant benefits of enhanced attention and decreased negative mood and fatigue in women with breast cancer. This paper delineates the design and development of the mindfulness-based music therapy (MBMT) program implemented in that pilot study and includes clients' narrative journal responses. Conclusions and recommendations, including recommendation for further exploration of the function of music in mindfulness practice are provided. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2015

Abstract Title: Music interventions for improving psychological and physical outcomes in cancer patients. Abstract Source: Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016 ;8:CD006911. Epub 2016 Aug 15. PMID: 27524661 Abstract Author(s): Joke Bradt, Cheryl Dileo, Lucanne Magill, Aaron Teague Article Affiliation: Joke Bradt Abstract: BACKGROUND: Having cancer may result in extensive emotional, physical and social suffering. Music interventions have been used to alleviate symptoms and treatment side effects in cancer patients. OBJECTIVES: To assess and compare the effects of music therapy and music medicine interventions for psychological and physical outcomes in people with cancer. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (2016, Issue 1), MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, LILACS, Science Citation Index, CancerLit, CAIRSS, Proquest Digital Dissertations, ClinicalTrials.gov, Current Controlled Trials, the RILM Abstracts of Music Literature, http://www.wfmt.info/Musictherapyworld/ and the National Research Register. We searched all databases, except for the last two, from their inception to January 2016; the other two are no longer functional, so we searched them until their termination date. We handsearched music therapy journals, reviewed reference lists and contacted experts. There was no language restriction. SELECTION CRITERIA: We included all randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials of music interventions for improving psychological and physical outcomes in adult and pediatric patients with cancer. We excluded participants undergoing biopsy and aspiration for diagnostic purposes. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two review authors independently extracted the data and assessed the risk of bias. Where possible, we presented results in meta-analyses using mean differences and standardized mean differences. We used post-test scores. In cases of significant baseline difference, we used change scores. MAIN RESULTS: We identified 22 new trials for inclusion in this update. In total, the evidence of this review rests on 52 trials with a total of 3731 participants. We included music therapy interventions offered by trained music therapists, as well as music medicine interventions, which are defined as listening to pre-recorded music, offered by medical staff. We categorized 23 trials as music therapy trials and 29 as music medicine trials.The results suggest that music interventions may have a beneficial effect on anxiety in people with cancer, with a reported average anxiety reduction of 8.54 units (95% confidence interval (CI) -12.04 to -5.05, P<0.0001) on the Spielberger State Anxiety Inventory - State Anxiety (STAI-S) scale (range 20 to 80) and -0.71 standardized units (13 studies, 1028 participants; 95% CI -0.98 to -0.43, P<0.00001; low quality evidence) on other anxiety scales, a moderate to strong effect. Results also suggested a moderately strong, positive impact on depression (7 studies, 723 participants; standardized mean difference (SMD): -0.40, 95% CI -0.74 to -0.06, P = 0.02; very low quality evidence), but because of the very low quality of the evidence for this outcome, this result needs to be interpreted with caution. We found no support for an effect of music interventions on mood or distress.Music interventions may lead to small reductions in heart rate, respiratory rate and blood pressure but do not appear to impact oxygen saturation level. We found a large pain-reducing effect (7 studies, 528 participants; SMD: -0.91, 95% CI -1.46 to -0.36, P = 0.001, low quality evidence). In addition, music interventions had a small to moderate treatment effect on fatigue (6 studies, 253 participants; SMD: -0.38, 95% CI -0.72 to -0.04, P = 0.03; low quality evidence), but we did not find strong evidence for improvement in physical functioning.The results suggest a large effect of music interventions on patients' quality of life (QoL), but the results were highly inconsistent across studies, and the pooled effect size for the music medicine and music therapy studies was accompanied by a large confidence interval (SMD: 0.98, 95% CI -0.36 to 2.33, P = 0.15, low quality evidence). A comparison between music therapy and music medicine interventions suggests a moderate effect of music therapy interventions for patients' quality of life (QoL) (3 studies, 132 participants; SMD: 0.42, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.78, P = 0.02; very low quality evidence), but we found no evidence of an effect for music medicine interventions. A comparison between music therapy and music medicine studies was also possible for anxiety, depression and mood, but we found no difference between the two types of interventions for these outcomes.The results of single studies suggest that music listening may reduce the need for anesthetics and analgesics as well as decrease recovery time and duration of hospitalization, but more research is needed for these outcomes.We could not draw any conclusions regarding the effect of music interventions on immunologic functioning, coping, resilience or communication outcomes because either we could not pool the results of the studies that included these outcomes or we could only identify one trial. For spiritual well-being, we found no evidence of an effect in adolescents or young adults, and we could not draw any conclusions in adults.The majority of studies included in this review update presented a high risk of bias, and therefore the quality of evidence is low. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review indicates that music interventions may have beneficial effects on anxiety, pain, fatigue and QoL in people with cancer. Furthermore, music may have a small effect on heart rate, respiratory rate and blood pressure. Most trials were at high risk of bias and, therefore, these results need to be interpreted with caution. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2015

Abstract Title: The Effect of Binaural Beats on Visuospatial Working Memory and Cortical Connectivity. Abstract Source: PLoS One. 2016 ;11(11):e0166630. Epub 2016 Nov 28. PMID: 27893766 Abstract Author(s): Christine Beauchene, Nicole Abaid, Rosalyn Moran, Rachel A Diana, Alexander Leonessa Article Affiliation: Christine Beauchene Abstract: Binaural beats utilize a phenomenon that occurs within the cortex when two different frequencies are presented separately to each ear. This procedure produces a third phantom binaural beat, whose frequency is equal to the difference of the two presented tones and which can be manipulated for non-invasive brain stimulation. The effects of binaural beats on working memory, the system in control of temporary retention and online organization of thoughts for successful goal directed behavior, have not been well studied. Furthermore, no studies have evaluated the effects of binaural beats on brain connectivity during working memory tasks. In this study, we determined the effects of different acoustic stimulation conditions on participant response accuracy and cortical network topology, as measured by EEG recordings, during a visuospatial working memory task. Three acoustic stimulation control conditions and three binaural beat stimulation conditions were used: None, Pure Tone, Classical Music, 5Hz binaural beats, 10Hz binaural beats, and 15Hz binaural beats. We found that listening to 15Hz binaural beats during a visuospatial working memory task not only increased the response accuracy, but also modified the strengths of the cortical networks during the task. The three auditory control conditions and the 5Hz and 10Hz binaural beats all decreased accuracy. Based on graphical network analyses, the cortical activity during 15Hz binaural beats produced networks characteristic of high information transfer with consistent connection strengths throughout the visuospatial working memory task. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2015

Abstract Title: High-Frequency Binaural Beats Increase Cognitive Flexibility: Evidence from Dual-Task Crosstalk. Abstract Source: Front Psychol. 2016 ;7:1287. Epub 2016 Aug 24. PMID: 27605922 Abstract Author(s): Bernhard Hommel, Roberta Sellaro, Rico Fischer, Saskia Borg, Lorenza S Colzato Article Affiliation: Bernhard Hommel Abstract: Increasing evidence suggests that cognitive-control processes can be configured to optimize either persistence of information processing (by amplifying competition between decision-making alternatives and top-down biasing of this competition) or flexibility (by dampening competition and biasing). We investigated whether high-frequency binaural beats, an auditory illusion suspected to act as a cognitive enhancer, have an impact on cognitive-control configuration. We hypothesized that binaural beats in the gamma range bias the cognitive-control style toward flexibility, which in turn should increase the crosstalk between tasks in a dual-task paradigm. We replicated earlier findings that the reaction time in the first-performed task is sensitive to the compatibility between the responses in the first and the second task-an indication of crosstalk. As predicted, exposing participants to binaural beats in the gamma range increased this effect as compared to a control condition in which participants were exposed to a continuous tone of 340 Hz. These findings provide converging evidence that the cognitive-control style can be systematically biased by inducing particular internal states; that high-frequency binaural beats bias the control style toward more flexibility; and that different styles are implemented by changing the strength of local competition and top-down bias. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2015

Abstract Title: Effects of music therapy on pain, anxiety, and vital signs in patients after thoracic surgery. Abstract Source: Complement Ther Med. 2015 Oct ;23(5):714-8. Epub 2015 Aug 4. PMID: 26365452 Abstract Author(s): Yang Liu, Marcia A Petrini Article Affiliation: Yang Liu Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To examine the effectiveness of music listening on pain, anxiety, and vital signs among patients after thoracic surgery in China. DESIGN AND SETTING: A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted in the thoracic surgery department of two tertiary hospitals in Wuhan, China. 112 patients were recruited and randomly assigned to either experimental (n=56) or control (n=56) group respectively. INTERVENTION: The experimental group received standard care and a 30-min soft music intervention for 3 days, while the control group received only standard care. Measures include pain, anxiety, vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate and respiratory rate), patient controlled analgesia, and diclofenac sodium suppository use. RESULTS: The experimental group showed statistically significant decrease in pain, anxiety, systolic blood pressure and heart rate over time compared to the control group, but no significant difference were identified in diastolic blood pressure, respiratory rate, patient controlled analgesia and diclofenac sodium suppository use. CONCLUSION: The findings provide further evidence to support the practice of music therapy to reduce postoperative pain and anxiety, and lower systolic blood pressure and heart rate in patients after thoracic surgery in China. Article Published Date : Sep 30, 2015

Abstract Title: Music versus lifestyle on the autonomic nervous system of prehypertensives and hypertensives-a randomized control trial. Abstract Source: Complement Ther Med. 2015 Oct ;23(5):733-40. Epub 2015 Aug 5. PMID: 26365454 Abstract Author(s): Kirthana Ubrangala Kunikullaya, Jaisri Goturu, Vijayadas Muradi, Preethi Avinash Hukkeri, Radhika Kunnavil, Venkatesh Doreswamy, Vadagenahalli S Prakash, Nandagudi Srinivasa Murthy Article Affiliation: Kirthana Ubrangala Kunikullaya Abstract: OBJECTIVES: Ragas of Indian music are said to be beneficial in normalizing blood pressure (BP). The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of passive listening to relaxing raga on the autonomic functions of hypertensives and prehypertensives and provide scientific evidence. METHODS: Ethical clearance was obtained from the institutional review board. A prospective, randomized controlled trial was done on hundred prehypertensives/stage I hypertensives, randomly divided into two groups (n=50 in each). Group 1 received music intervention along with lifestyle modifications while Group 2 received only lifestyle modifications (according to Joint national committee VII guidelines). Group 1 listened to raga bhimpalas played on flute for 15min daily for at least 5 days/week for 3 months. The main outcome measures were heart rate variability (HRV) (Power lab 15T, AD Instruments), BP and stress levels (State Trait anxiety inventory score). All HRV variables were log transformed for analysis. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 18.0 with P<0.05 being considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Group 1 exhibited significant reduction in stress levels, diastolic BP and systolic BP decreased in Group 2 after intervention. Insignificant rise in parasympathetic parameters of HRV (SDNN, RMSSD, HF ms(2), HF nu) was seen after intervention in both the groups. We found significantly increased parasympathetic and lower sympathetic parameters (LF ms(2), LF nu, LF/HF) in Group 1 and 2 males and females of Group 2. The results suggest that females of Group 1 were least compliant with the given intervention. CONCLUSIONS: Passive listening to Indian music along with conventional lifestyle modifications has a role in normalizing BP through autonomic function modification and thus can be used as a complementary therapy along with other lifestyle modifications. Article Published Date : Sep 30, 2015

Abstract Title: The efficacy of music therapy for people with dementia: A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Abstract Source: J Clin Nurs. 2015 Aug 24. Epub 2015 Aug 24. PMID: 26299594 Abstract Author(s): Yu-Shiun Chang, Hsin Chu, Chyn-Yng Yang, Jui-Chen Tsai, Min-Huey Chung, Yuan-Mei Liao, Mei-Ju Chi, Megan F Liu, Kuei-Ru Chou Article Affiliation: Yu-Shiun Chang Abstract: AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To (1) perform a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials pertaining to the efficacy of music therapy on disruptive behaviours, anxiety levels, depressive moods and cognitive functioning in people with dementia; and (2) clarify which interventions, therapists and participant characteristics exerted higher and more prominent effects. BACKGROUND: Present study was the first to perform a meta-analysis that included all the randomised controlled trials found in literature relating to music therapy for people with dementia over the past 15 years. DESIGN: A meta-analysis study design. METHODS: Quantitative studies were retrieved from PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library Database, CINAHL, SCOPUS and PsycINFO. A meta-analysis was used to calculate the overall effect sizes of music therapy on outcome indicators. RESULTS: Music therapy significantly improved disruptive behaviours [Hedges' g = -0·66; 95% confidence interval (CI) = -0·44 to -0·88] and anxiety levels (Hedges' g = -0·51; 95% CI = -0·02 to -1·00) in people with dementia. Music therapy might affect depressive moods (Hedges' g = -0·39; 95% CI = 0·01 to -0·78), and cognitive functioning (Hedges' g = 0·19; 95% CI = 0·45 to -0·08). CONCLUSION: Music therapy exerted a moderately large effect on disruptive behaviours of people with dementia, a moderate effect on anxiety levels and depressive moods, and a small effect on cognitive functioning. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: Individual music therapy provided once a week to patients with cognitive functioning and manual guided in music intervention construction is suggested. Group music therapy is provided several times a week to reduce their disruptive behaviours, anxiety levels and depressive moods. Music therapy is a cost-effective, enjoyable, noninvasive therapy and could be useful for clinical nurses in creating an environment that is conducive to the well-being of patients with dementia. Article Published Date : Aug 23, 2015

Abstract Title: LSD enhances the emotional response to music. Abstract Source: Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2015 Aug 11. Epub 2015 Aug 11. PMID: 26257162 Abstract Author(s): M Kaelen, F S Barrett, L Roseman, R Lorenz, N Family, M Bolstridge, H V Curran, A Feilding, D J Nutt, R L Carhart-Harris Article Affiliation: M Kaelen Abstract: RATIONALE: There is renewed interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelic drugs such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). LSD was used extensively in the 1950s and 1960s as an adjunct in psychotherapy, reportedly enhancing emotionality. Music is an effective tool to evoke and study emotion and is considered an important element in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy; however, the hypothesis that psychedelics enhance the emotional response to music has yet to be investigated in a modern placebo-controlled study. OBJECTIVES: The present study sought to test the hypothesis that music-evoked emotions are enhanced under LSD. METHODS: Ten healthy volunteers listened to five different tracks of instrumental music during each of two study days, a placebo day followed by an LSD day, separated by 5-7 days. Subjective ratings were completed after each music track and included a visual analogue scale (VAS) and the nine-item Geneva Emotional Music Scale (GEMS-9). RESULTS: Results demonstrated that the emotional response to music is enhanced by LSD, especially the emotions"wonder","transcendence","power"and"tenderness". CONCLUSIONS: These findings reinforce the long-held assumption that psychedelics enhance music-evoked emotion, and provide tentative and indirect support for the notion that this effect can be harnessed in the context of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. Further research is required to test this link directly. Article Published Date : Aug 10, 2015

Abstract Title: Musicians and music making as a model for the study of brain plasticity. Abstract Source: Prog Brain Res. 2015 ;217:37-55. Epub 2015 Feb 11. PMID: 25725909 Abstract Author(s): Gottfried Schlaug Article Affiliation: Gottfried Schlaug Abstract: Playing a musical instrument is an intense, multisensory, and motor experience that usually commences at an early age and requires the acquisition and maintenance of a range of sensory and motor skills over the course of a musician's lifetime. Thus, musicians offer an excellent human model for studying behavioral-cognitive as well as brain effects of acquiring, practicing, and maintaining these specialized skills. Research has shown that repeatedly practicing the association of motor actions with specific sound and visual patterns (musical notation), while receiving continuous multisensory feedback will strengthen connections between auditory and motor regions (e.g., arcuate fasciculus) as well as multimodal integration regions. Plasticity in this network may explain some of the sensorimotor and cognitive enhancements that have been associated with music training. Furthermore, the plasticity of this system as a result of long term and intense interventions suggest the potential for music making activities (e.g., forms of singing) as an intervention for neurological and developmental disorders to learn and relearn associations between auditory and motor functions such as vocal motor functions. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2014

Abstract Title: Apollo's gift: new aspects of neurologic music therapy. Abstract Source: Prog Brain Res. 2015 ;217:237-52. Epub 2015 Feb 11. PMID: 25725918 Abstract Author(s): Eckart Altenmüller, Gottfried Schlaug Article Affiliation: Eckart Altenmüller Abstract: Music listening and music making activities are powerful tools to engage multisensory and motor networks, induce changes within these networks, and foster links between distant, but functionally related brain regions with continued and life-long musical practice. These multimodal effects of music together with music's ability to tap into the emotion and reward system in the brain can be used to facilitate and enhance therapeutic approaches geared toward rehabilitating and restoring neurological dysfunctions and impairments of an acquired or congenital brain disorder. In this article, we review plastic changes in functional networks and structural components of the brain in response to short- and long-term music listening and music making activities. The specific influence of music on the developing brain is emphasized and possible transfer effects on emotional and cognitive processes are discussed. Furthermore, we present data on the potential of using musical tools and activities to support and facilitate neurorehabilitation. We will focus on interventions such as melodic intonation therapy and music-supported motor rehabilitation to showcase the effects of neurologic music therapies and discuss their underlying neural mechanisms. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2014

Abstract Title: Music for stress and anxiety reduction in coronary heart disease patients. Abstract Source: Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013 Dec 28(12):CD006577. Epub 2013 Dec 28. PMID: 24374731 Abstract Author(s): Joke Bradt, Cheryl Dileo, Noah Potvin Article Affiliation: Joke Bradt Abstract: BACKGROUND: Individuals with coronary heart disease (CHD) often suffer from severe distress due to diagnosis, hospitalization, surgical procedures, uncertainty of outcome, fear of dying, doubts about progress in recovery, helplessness and loss of control. Such adverse effects put the cardiac patient at greater risk for complications, including sudden cardiac death. It is therefore of crucial importance that the care of people with CHD focuses on psychological as well as physiological needs.Music interventions have been used to reduce anxiety and distress and improve physiological functioning in medical patients; however its efficacy for people with CHD needs to be evaluated. OBJECTIVES: To update the previously published review that examined the effects of music interventions with standard care versus standard care alone on psychological and physiological responses in persons with CHD. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) on The Cochrane Library (2012, Issue 10), MEDLINE (OvidSP, 1950 to October week 4 2012), EMBASE (OvidSP, 1974 to October week 5 2012), CINAHL (EBSCOhost, 1982 to 9 November 2012), PsycINFO (OvidSP, 1806 to October week 5 2012), LILACS (Virtual Health Library, 1982 to 15 November 2012), Social Science Citation Index (ISI, 1974 to 9 November 2012), a number of other databases, and clinical trial registers. We also conducted handsearching of journals and reference lists. We applied no language restrictions. SELECTION CRITERIA: We included all randomized controlled trials and quasi-randomized trials that compared music interventions and standard care with standard care alone for persons with confirmed CHD. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two review authors independently extracted data and assessed methodological quality, seeking additional information from the trial researchers when necessary. We present results using weighted mean differences for outcomes measured by the same scale, and standardized mean differences for outcomes measured by different scales. We used post-intervention scores. In cases of significant baseline difference, we used change scores (changes from baseline). MAIN RESULTS: We identified four new trials for this update. In total, the evidence for this review rests on 26 trials (1369 participants). Listening to music was the main intervention used, and 23 of the studies did not include a trained music therapist.Results indicate that music interventions have a small beneficial effect on psychological distress in people with CHD and this effect is consistent across studies (MD = -1.26, 95% CI -2.30 to -0.22, P = 0.02, I² = 0%). Listening to music has a moderate effect on anxiety in people with CHD; however results were inconsistent across studies (SMD = -0.70, 95% CI -1.17 to -0.22, P = 0.004, I² = 77%). Studies that used music interventions in people with myocardial infarction found more consistent anxiety-reducing effects of music, with an average anxiety reduction of 5.87 units on a 20 to 80 point score range (95% CI -7.99 to -3.75, P<0.00001, I² = 53%). Furthermore, studies that used patient-selected music resulted in greater anxiety-reducing effects that were consistent across studies (SMD = -0.89, 95% CI -1.42 to -0.36, P = 0.001, I² = 48%). Findings indicate that listening to music reduces heart rate (MD = -3.40, 95% CI -6.12 to -0.69, P = 0.01), respiratory rate (MD = -2.50, 95% CI -3.61 to -1.39, P<0.00001) and systolic blood pressure (MD = -5.52 mmHg, 95% CI - 7.43 to -3.60, P<0.00001). Studies that included two or more music sessions led to a small and consistent pain-reducing effect (SMD = -0.27, 95% CI -0.55 to -0.00, P = 0.05). The results also suggest that listening to music may improve patients' quality of sleep following a cardiac procedure or surgery (SMD = 0.91, 95% CI 0.03 to 1.79, P = 0.04).We found no strong evidence for heart rate variability and depression. Only one study considered hormone levels and quality of life as an outcome variable. A small number of studies pointed to a possible beneficial effect of music on opioid intake after cardiac procedures or surgery, but more research is needed to strengthen this evidence. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review indicates that listening to music may have a beneficial effect on anxiety in persons with CHD, especially those with a myocardial infarction. Anxiety-reducing effects appear to be greatest when people are given a choice of which music to listen to.Furthermore, listening to music may have a beneficial effect on systolic blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, quality of sleep and pain in persons with CHD. However, the clinical significance of these findings is unclear. Since many of the studies are at high risk of bias, these findings need to be interpreted with caution. More research is needed into the effects of music interventions offered by a trained music therapist. Article Published Date : Dec 27, 2013

Abstract Title: The effect of music-based listening interventions on the volume, fat content, and caloric content of breast milk-produced by mothers of premature and critically ill infants. Abstract Source: Adv Neonatal Care. 2012 Apr ;12(2):112-9. PMID: 22469966 Abstract Author(s): Douglas R Keith, Barbara S Weaver, Robert L Vogel Article Affiliation: Georgia College and State University, Milledgeville (Dr Keith); Medical Center of Central Georgia, Macon (Ms Weaver); and Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro (Dr Vogel). Abstract: PURPOSE: : Maternal breast milk is considered the nutritional"gold standard"for all infants, especially premature infants. However, preterm mothers are at risk of not producing adequate milk. Multiple factors affect the production of milk, including stress, fatigue, and the separation of the breastfeeding dyad-for example, when mother or infant is hospitalized. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of listening and visual interventions on the quantity and quality of breast milk produced by mothers using a double electric breast pump. SUBJECTS: : Mothers of 162 preterm infants were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 groups. METHODS: : The control group received standard nursing care, whereas mothers in the 3 experimental groups additionally listened to a recording of 1 of 3 music-based listening interventions while using the pump. RESULTS: : Mothers in the experimental groups produced significantly more milk (P<.0012). Mothers in these groups also produced milk with significantly higher fat content during the first 6 days of the study. Article Published Date : Apr 01, 2012

Abstract Title: The effectiveness of music listening in reducing depressive symptoms in adults: A systematic review. Abstract Source: Complement Ther Med. 2011 Dec ;19(6):332-48. Epub 2011 Sep 22. PMID: 22036525 Abstract Author(s): Moon Fai Chan, Zi Yang Wong, N V Thayala Article Affiliation: Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore. Abstract: OBJECTIVES: We aim to review trials of the effectiveness of music listening in reducing depressive symptoms in adults, and identify areas requiring further study. BACKGROUND: Little is known about the efficacy of music listening in the mediation of depressive symptoms. METHODS: We systematically search 9 databases and reviewed 17 studies included randomized controlled and quasi-experimental trails of music listening in reducing depressive symptoms in adults. The Joanna Briggs Institute-Meta Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument was used for quality assessment of included studies. RESULTS: Music listening over a period of time helps to reduce depressive symptoms in the adult population. Daily intervention does not seem to be superior over weekly intervention and it is recommended that music listening session be conducted repeatedly over a time span of more than 3weeks to allow an accumulative effect to occur. CONCLUSIONS: All types of music can be used as listening material, depending on the preferences of the listener. So, it is recommended that the listeners are given choices over the kind of music which they listen to. There is a need to conduct more studies, which replicate the designs used in the existing studies that met the inclusion criteria, on the level of efficacy of music listening on the reduction of depressive symptoms for a more accurate meta-analysis of the findings and reflect with greater accuracy the significant effects that music has on the level of depressive symptoms. Article Published Date : Dec 01, 2011

Abstract Title: [Music therapy for dementia and higher cognitive dysfunction: a review]. Abstract Source: Brain Nerve. 2011 Dec ;63(12):1370-7. PMID: 22147456 Abstract Author(s): Masayuki Satoh Article Affiliation: Masayuki Satoh Abstract: Music is known to affect the human mind and body. Music therapy utilizes the effects of music for medical purposes. The history of music therapy is quite long, but only limited evidence supports its usefulness in the treatment of higher cognitive dysfunction. As for dementia, some studies conclude that music therapy is effective for preventing cognitive deterioration and the occurrence of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). In patients receiving music therapy for the treatment of higher cognitive dysfunction, aphasia was reported as the most common symptom. Many studies have been conducted to determine whether singing can improve aphasic symptoms: singing familiar and/or unfamiliar songs did not show any positive effect on aphasia. Melodic intonation therapy (MIT) is a method that utilizes melody and rhythm to improve speech output. MIT is a method that is known to have positive effects on aphasic patients. Some studies of music therapy for patients with unilateral spatial neglect; apraxia; hemiparesis; and walking disturbances, including parkinsonian gait, are available in the literature. Studies showed that the symptoms of unilateral spatial neglect and hemiparesis significantly improved when musical instruments were played for several months as a part of the music therapy. Here, I describe my study in which mental singing showed a positive effect on parkinsonian gait. Music is interesting, and every patient can go through training without any pain. Future studies need to be conducted to establish evidence of the positive effects of music therapy on neurological and neuropsychological symptoms. Article Published Date : Nov 30, 2011

Abstract Title: Music therapy for people with schizophrenia and schizophrenia-like disorders. Abstract Source: Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2011 ;12:CD004025. Epub 2011 Dec 7. PMID: 22161383 Abstract Author(s): Karin Mössler, Xijing Chen, Tor Olav Heldal, Christian Gold Article Affiliation: GAMUT, University of Bergen, Lars Hilles Gt. 3, Bergen, Norway. Abstract: BACKGROUND: Music therapy is a therapeutic method that uses musical interaction as a means of communication and expression. The aim of the therapy is to help people with serious mental disorders to develop relationships and to address issues they may not be able to using words alone. OBJECTIVES: To review the effects of music therapy, or music therapy added to standard care, compared with 'placebo' therapy, standard care or no treatment for people with serious mental disorders such as schizophrenia. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Schizophrenia Group Trials Register (December 2010) and supplemented this by contacting relevant study authors, handsearching of music therapy journals and manual searches of reference lists. SELECTION CRITERIA: All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared music therapy with standard care, placebo therapy, or no treatment. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Studies were reliably selected, quality assessed and data extracted. We excluded data where more than 30% of participants in any group were lost to follow-up. We synthesised non-skewed continuous endpoint data from valid scales using a standardised mean difference (SMD). If statistical heterogeneity was found, we examined treatment 'dosage' and treatment approach as possible sources of heterogeneity. MAIN RESULTS: We included eight studies (total 483 participants). These examined effects of music therapy over the short- to medium-term (one to four months), with treatment 'dosage' varying from seven to 78 sessions. Music therapy added to standard care was superior to standard care for global state (medium-term, 1 RCT, n = 72, RR 0.10 95% CI 0.03 to 0.31, NNT 2 95% CI 1.2 to 2.2). Continuous data identified good effects on negative symptoms (4 RCTs, n = 240, SMD average endpoint Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms (SANS) -0.74 95% CI -1.00 to -0.47); general mental state (1 RCT, n = 69, SMD average endpoint Positive and Negative Symptoms Scale (PANSS) -0.36 95% CI -0.85 to 0.12; 2 RCTs, n=100, SMD average endpoint Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) -0.73 95% CI -1.16 to -0.31); depression (2 RCTs, n = 90, SMD average endpoint Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) -0.63 95% CI -1.06 to -0.21; 1 RCT, n = 30, SMD average endpoint Hamilton Depression Scale (Ham-D) -0.52 95% CI -1.25 to -0.21 ); and anxiety (1 RCT, n = 60, SMD average endpoint SAS -0.61 95% CI -1.13 to -0.09). Positive effects were also found for social functioning (1 RCT, n = 70, SMD average endpoint Social Disability Schedule for Inpatients (SDSI) score -0.78 95% CI -1.27 to -0.28). Furthermore, some aspects of cognitive functioning and behaviour seem to develop positively through music therapy. Effects, however, were inconsistent across studies and depended on the number of music therapy sessions as well as the quality of the music therapy provided. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Music therapy as an addition to standard care helps people with schizophrenia to improve their global state, mental state (including negative symptoms) and social functioning if a sufficient number of music therapy sessions are provided by qualified music therapists. Further research should especially address the long-term effects of music therapy, dose-response relationships, as well as the relevance of outcomes measures in relation to music therapy. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2011

Abstract Title: The effects of therapeutic instrumental music performance on endurance level, self-perceived fatigue level, and self-perceived exertion of inpatients in physical rehabilitation. Abstract Source: J Music Ther. 2011 ;48(2):124-48. PMID: 21938889 Abstract Author(s): Hayoung A Lim, Karen Miller, Chuck Fabian Article Affiliation: Sam Houston State University and Huntsville Memorial Hospital, TX, USA. Abstract: The present study investigated the effects of a Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT) sensory-motor rehabilitation technique, Therapeutic Instrumental Music Performance (TIMP) as compared to Traditional Occupational Therapy (TOT), on endurance, self-perceived fatigue, and self-perceived exertion of 35 hospitalized patients in physical rehabilitation. The present study attempted to examine whether an active musical experience such as TIMP with musical cueing (i.e., rhythmic auditory cueing) during physical exercises influences one's perception of pain, fatigue, and exertion. All participants were diagnosed with a neurologic disorder or had recently undergone orthopedic surgery. Investigators measured the effects of TOT and TIMP during upper extremity exercise of the less affected or stronger upper extremity. Results showed no significant difference on endurance measures between the 2 treatment conditions (TIMP and TOT). Statistically significant differences were found between TIMP and TOT when measuring their effects on perceived exertion and perceived fatigue. TIMP resulted in significantly less perception of fatigue and exertion levels than TOT. TIMP can be used foran effective sensory-motor rehabilitation technique to decrease perceived exertion and fatigue level of inpatients in physical rehabilitation. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2011

Abstract Title: Comparison between massage and music therapies to relieve the severity of labor pain. Abstract Source: Womens Health (Lond Engl). 2010 May;6(3):377-81. PMID: 20426604 Abstract Author(s): Hamid Taghinejad, Ali Delpisheh, Zeinab Suhrabi Article Affiliation: Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran. Abstract: BACKGROUND: During labor, women experience a high level of intense, stressful and steady pain that may negatively affect both mothers and neonates. Painkillers have previously been used for childbearing women, but nowadays, owing to some well-known limitations and serious side effects, nonpharmacologic methods such as massage and music therapies are being broadly recommended. The present clinical trial was conducted to compare the effects of massage and music therapies on the severity of labor pain in the Ilam province of western Iran. MATERIALS&METHODS: Overall, 101 primigravidae who were hospitalized for vaginal delivery were recruited and randomly stratified into two groups of either massage (n = 51) or music (n = 50) therapies. Pain was measured using the visual analog scale and the two groups were compared in terms of pain severity before and after the interventions. RESULTS: Mothers in the massage therapy group had a lower level of pain compared with those in the music therapy group (p = 0.009). A significant difference was observed between the two groups in terms of pain severity after intervention (p = 0.01). Agonizing, or most severe, labor pain was significantly relieved after massage therapy (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: Massage therapy was an effective method for reducing and relieving labor pain compared with music therapy and can be clinically recommended as an alternative, safe and affordable method of pain relief where using either pharmacological or nonpharmacological methods are optional. Article Published Date : May 01, 2010

Abstract Title: Music therapy protocol development to enhance swallowing training for stroke patients with dysphagia. Abstract Source: J Music Ther. 2010;47(2):102-19. PMID: 21141768 Abstract Author(s): Soo Ji Kim Article Affiliation: Myongji University, Seoul, Korea. Abstract: Considering the devastating condition of dysphagia, it is necessary to provide intensive therapeutic regimen based on interdisciplinary approach. In this aspect, music-enhanced swallowing protocol was developed through a pilot study. Then, the modified protocol from a pilot study was examined with 8 stroke patients in a local hospital. The protocol was designed to improve oral motor control, laryngeal elevation, breathing, and swallowing functions. The dependent variables measured included reflex, respiration, and laryngeal functions using the Frenchay Dysarthria assessment. Results from the initial to the midevaluation showed that pitch in the laryngeal category were statistically significant after 6th sessions. After the 12th session, when the final evaluation was compared with the initial assessment, additional categories revealed statistically significant changes. It is recommended that this study should be replicated with a control group and a larger sample using either FEES or video fluoroscopy for scientific data to further substantiate music therapy outcomes in stroke rehabilitation. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2010

Abstract Title: Music therapy for acquired brain injury. Abstract Source: Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2010(7):CD006787. Epub 2010 Jul 7. PMID: 20614449 Abstract Author(s): Joke Bradt, Wendy L Magee, Cheryl Dileo, Barbara L Wheeler, Emer McGilloway Article Affiliation: The Arts and Quality of Life Research Center, Boyer College of Music and Dance, Temple University, Presser Hall, 2001 North 13 Street, Philadelphia, USA. Abstract: BACKGROUND: Acquired brain injury (ABI) can result in impairments in motor function, language, cognition, sensory processing and emotional disturbances. This may severely reduce a survivor's quality of life. Music therapy has been used in rehabilitation to stimulate brain functions involved in movement, cognition, speech, emotions and sensory perceptions. A systematic review is needed to gauge the efficacy of music therapy as a rehabilitation intervention for people with ABI. OBJECTIVES: To examine the effects of music therapy with standard care versus standard care alone or standard care combined with other therapies on gait, upper extremity function, communication, mood and emotions, social skills, pain, behavioral outcomes, activities of daily living and adverse events. SEARCH STRATEGY: We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register (February 2010), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library Issue 2, 2009), MEDLINE (July 2009), EMBASE (August 2009), CINAHL (March 2010), PsycINFO (July 2009), LILACS (August 2009), AMED (August 2009) and Science Citation Index (August 2009). We handsearched music therapy journals and conference proceedings, searched dissertation and specialist music databases, trials and research registers, reference lists, and contacted experts and music therapy associations. There was no language restriction. SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials that compared music therapy interventions and standard care with standard care alone or combined with other therapies for people older than 16 years of age who had acquired brain damage of a non-degenerative nature and were participating in treatment programs offered in hospital, outpatient or community settings. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two review authors independently assessed methodological quality and extracted data. We present results using mean differences (using post-test scores) as all outcomes were measured with the same scale. MAIN RESULTS: We included seven studies (184 participants). The results suggest that rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) may be beneficial for improving gait parameters in stroke patients, including gait velocity, cadence, stride length and gait symmetry. These results were based on two studies that received a low risk of bias score. There were insufficient data to examine the effect of music therapy on other outcomes. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: RAS may be beneficial for gait improvement in people with stroke. These results are encouraging, but more RCTs are needed before recommendations can be made for clinical practice. More research is needed to examine the effects of music therapy on other outcomes in people with ABI. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2010

Abstract Title: Soothing music can increase oxytocin levels during bed rest after open-heart surgery: a randomised control trial. Abstract Source: J Clin Nurs. 2009 Aug;18(15):2153-61. PMID: 19583647 Abstract Author(s): Ulrica Nilsson Abstract: AIM: To evaluate the effect of bed rest with music on relaxation for patients who have undergone heart surgery on postoperative day one. BACKGROUND: Music intervention has been evaluated as an appropriate nursing intervention to reduce patients 'pain, stress and anxiety levels in several clinical settings, but its effectiveness in increasing patients' subjective and objective relaxation levels has not been examined. DESIGN: A randomised controlled trial. METHOD: Forty patients undergoing open coronary artery bypass grafting and/or aortic valve replacement surgery were randomly allocated to either music listening during bed rest (n = 20) or bed rest only (n = 20). Relaxation was assessed during bed rest the day after surgery by determining the plasma oxytocin, heart rate, mean arterial blood pressure, PaO2 SaO2 and subjective relaxation levels. RESULTS: In the music group, levels of oxytocin increased significantly in contrast to the control group for which the trend over time was negative i.e., decreasing values. Subjective relaxation levels increased significantly more and there were also a significant higher levels of PaO2 in the music group compared to the control group. There was no difference in mean arterial blood pressure, heart rate and SaO2 between the groups. CONCLUSION: Listening to music during bed rest after open-heart surgery has some effects on the relaxation system as regards s-oxytocin and subjective relaxations levels. This effect seems to have a causal relation from the psychological (music makes patients relaxed) to the physical (oxytocin release). RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: Music intervention should be offered as an integral part of the multimodal regime administered to the patients that have undergone cardiovascular surgery. It is a supportive source that increases relaxation. Article Published Date : Aug 01, 2009

Abstract Title: Emotional, motivational and interpersonal responsiveness of children with autism in improvisational music therapy. Abstract Source: Autism. 2009 Jul;13(4):389-409. PMID: 19535468 Abstract Author(s): Jinah Kim, Tony Wigram, Christian Gold Abstract: Through behavioural analysis, this study investigated the social-motivational aspects of musical interaction between the child and the therapist in improvisational music therapy by measuring emotional, motivational and interpersonal responsiveness in children with autism during joint engagement episodes. The randomized controlled study (n = 10) employed a single subject comparison design in two different conditions, improvisational music therapy and toy play sessions, and DVD analysis of sessions. Improvisational music therapy produced markedly more and longer events of 'joy', 'emotional synchronicity' and 'initiation of engagement' behaviours in the children than toy play sessions. In response to the therapist's interpersonal demands, 'compliant (positive) responses' were observed more in music therapy than in toy play sessions, and 'no responses' were twice as frequent in toy play sessions as in music therapy. The results of this exploratory study found significant evidence supporting the value of music therapy in promoting social, emotional and motivational development in children with autism. Article Published Date : Jul 01, 2009

Abstract Title: Neural reorganization underlies improvement in stroke-induced motor dysfunction by music-supported therapy. Abstract Source: Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2009 Jul;1169:395-405. PMID: 19673814 Abstract Author(s): E Altenmüller, J Marco-Pallares, T F Münte, S Schneider Abstract: Motor impairments are common after stroke, but efficacious therapies for these dysfunctions are scarce. By extending an earlier study on the effects of music-supported therapy, behavioral indices of motor function as well as electrophysiological measures were obtained before and after a series of therapy sessions to assess whether this new treatment leads to neural reorganization and motor recovery in patients after stroke. The study group comprised 32 stroke patients in a large rehabilitation hospital; they had moderately impaired motor function and no previous musical experience. Over a period of 3 weeks, these patients received 15 sessions of music-supported therapy using a manualized step-by-step approach. For comparison 30 additional patients received standard rehabilitation procedures. Fine as well as gross motor skills were trained by using either a MIDI-piano or electronic drum pads programmed to emit piano tones. Motor functions were assessed by an extensive test battery. In addition, we studied event-related desynchronization/synchronization and coherences from all 62 patients performing self-paced movements of the index finger (MIDI-piano) and of the whole arm (drum pads). Results showed that music-supported therapy yielded significant improvement in fine as well as gross motor skills with respect to speed, precision, and smoothness of movements. Neurophysiological data showed a more pronounced event-related desynchronization before movement onset and a more pronounced coherence in the music-supported therapy group in the post-training assessment, whereas almost no differences were observed in the control group. Thus we see that music-supported therapy leads to marked improvements of motor function after stroke and that these are accompanied by electrophysiological changes indicative of a better cortical connectivity and improved activation of the motor cortex. Article Published Date : Jul 01, 2009

Abstract Title: Neurologic music therapy improves executive function and emotional adjustment in traumatic brain injury rehabilitation. Abstract Source: Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2009 Jul;1169:406-16. PMID: 19673815 Abstract Author(s): Michael H Thaut, James C Gardiner, Dawn Holmberg, Javan Horwitz, Luanne Kent, Garrett Andrews, Beth Donelan, Gerald R McIntosh Abstract: This study examined the immediate effects of neurologic music therapy (NMT) on cognitive functioning and emotional adjustment with brain-injured persons. Four treatment sessions were held, during which participants were given a pre-test, participated in 30 min of NMT that focused on one aspect of rehabilitation (attention, memory, executive function, or emotional adjustment), which was followed by post-testing. Control participants engaged in a pre-test, 30 min of rest, and then a post-test. Treatment participants showed improvement in executive function and overall emotional adjustment, and lessening of depression, sensation seeking, and anxiety. Control participants improved in emotional adjustment and lessening of hostility, but showed decreases in measures of memory, positive affect, and sensation seeking. Article Published Date : Jul 01, 2009

Abstract Title: Music during caesarean section under regional anaesthesia for improving maternal and infant outcomes. Abstract Source: Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2009 Apr 15;(2):CD006914. PMID: 19370660 Abstract Author(s): Malinee Laopaiboon, Pisake Lumbiganon, Ruth Martis, Patravoot Vatanasapt, Busaba Somjaivong Abstract: BACKGROUND: Evidence on the benefits of music during caesarean section under regional anaesthesia to improve clinical and psychological outcomes for mothers and infants has not been established. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effectiveness of music during caesarean section under regional anaesthesia for improving clinical and psychological outcomes for mothers and infants. SEARCH STRATEGY: We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (30 September 2008). SELECTION CRITERIA: We included randomised controlled trials comparing music added to standard care during caesarean section under regional anaesthesia to standard care alone. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two review authors, Malinee Laopaiboon and Ruth Martis, independently assessed eligibility, risk of bias in included trials and extracted data. We analysed continuous outcomes using a mean difference (MD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). MAIN RESULTS: One trial involving 76 women who planned to have their babies delivered by caesarean section met the inclusion criteria, but data were available for only 64 women. This trial was of low quality with unclear allocation concealment and only a few main clinical outcomes reported for the women. The trial did not report any infant outcomes. It appears that music added to standard care during caesarean section under regional anaesthesia had some impact on pulse rate at the end of maternal contact with the neonate in the intra-operative period (MD -7.50 fewer beats per minute, 95% CI -14.08 to -0.92) and after completion of skin suture for the caesarean section (MD -7.37 fewer beats per minute, 95% CI -13.37 to -1.37). There was also an improvement in the birth satisfaction score (maximum possible score of 35) (MD of 3.38, 95%CI 1.59 to 5.17). Effects on other outcomes were either not significant or not reported in the one included trial. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: The findings indicate that music during planned caesarean section under regional anaesthesia may improve pulse rate and birth satisfaction score. However, the magnitude of these benefits is small and the methodological quality of the one included trial is questionable. Therefore, the clinical significance of music is unclear. More research is needed to investigate the effects of music during caesarean section under regional anaesthesia on both maternal and infant outcomes, in various ethnic pregnant women, and with adequate sample sizes. Article Published Date : Apr 15, 2009

Abstract Title: The effect of background music and song texts on the emotional understanding of children with autism. Abstract Source: J Music Ther. 2009 Spring;46(1):15-31. PMID: 19256729 Abstract Author(s): June Katagiri Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of background music and song texts to teach emotional understanding to children with autism. Participants were 12 students (mean age 11.5 years) with a primary diagnosis of autism who were attending schools in Japan. Each participant was taught four emotions to decode and encode: happiness, sadness, anger, and fear by the counterbalanced treatment-order. The treatment consisted of the four conditions: (a) no contact control (NCC)--no purposeful teaching of the selected emotion, (b) contact control (CC)--teaching the selected emotion using verbal instructions alone, (c) background music (BM)--teaching the selected emotion by verbal instructions with background music representing the emotion, and singing songs (SS)--teaching the selected emotion by singing specially composed songs about the emotion. Participants were given a pretest and a posttest and received 8 individual sessions between these tests. The results indicated that all participants improved significantly in their understanding of the four selected emotions. Background music was significantly more effective than the other three conditions in improving participants' emotional understanding. The findings suggest that background music can be an effective tool to increase emotional understanding in children with autism, which is crucial to their social interactions. Article Published Date : Mar 01, 2009

Abstract Title: [Impact of music therapy on anxiety and depression for patients with Alzheimer's disease and on the burden felt by the main caregiver (feasibility study)]. Abstract Source: Encephale. 2009 Feb;35(1):57-65. Epub 2008 Feb 20. PMID: 19250995 Abstract Author(s): S Guetin, F Portet, M-C Picot, C Defez, C Pose, J-P Blayac, J Touchon Abstract: INTRODUCTION: The impact of music therapy on dementia care for patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) is well-recognized. Music alters the different components of the disease through sensory, cognitive, emotional, behavioral and social impacts. The academic aspect of music therapy in this area was based on the fact that music can alter the various components of the overall evolution of this disease. We found around 10 case studies presenting various results from receptive music therapy sessions on patients with Alzheimer's disease. The results of these studies point out the interest of music therapy in the multidisciplinary care of Alzheimer's disease and its related syndromes. It has been deemed useful for significantly reducing the medication given to AD patients. A music therapy protocol, specifically tailored to the patient's needs has been shown to significantly reduce anxiety, depression and aggressiveness in patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease. This technique has also demonstrated its impact on helping AD patients recall their previous life experience. OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the feasibility and to evaluate the impact of music therapy on anxiety and depression at the early to moderate stage of Alzheimer's disease and on the main caregiver burden. METHOD: Five outpatients suffering from early stage of Alzheimer's disease (MMS: 18-26) were prospectively included. They were living in Montpellier with a reliable caregiver. A weekly receptive music therapy session was delivered to patients over a 10-week period, according to the U method standardized protocol. This technique was based on the recommendations made by Gardner and Good relating to the importance given to an individualized choice of music. Instrumental tracks were selected from various music styles (classic, jazz, world music...) and were tailored to the patient's requirements. This individual session was always followed by an interview with the music therapist in order to allow the patient to express the emotions felt during the session and to stimulate the patient's cognitive functions by recalling memories and images from his past life experience. The main evaluation criterion was regular session attendance at the hospital. Secondary criteria were: anxiety score (Hamilton scale), depression score (Cornell scale) and the burden score felt by the main caregiver (Zarit scale). Evaluations took place at W1, W4 and W10. The score evolution on the Hamilton, Cornell and Zarit scales were tested using the Wilcoxon test on paired data. The significance threshold has conventionally been set at 5% for all tests used. The statistical analysis was done using the SAS software (8th version) (SAS Institute, Cary, N.C.; proc npar1way, proc univariate, proc freq). Alzheimer's disease is a recognized indication for music therapy. A simple oral consent was collected prior to the study inclusion. RESULTS: Five patients were included for a total of 44 sessions. The patients' regular attendance at the music therapy sessions showed its feasibility. Thanks to oral feedback, we were able to see that music therapy was very well-accepted both by patients and caregivers. After the sessions, all patients expressed a sensation of well-being and pleasure, such as: "Music made me feel better, I feel more relaxed", "I feel better", "I didn't know that music could have such an impact on me"... Other verbal comments were collected regarding the patients' previous life experience: "This music reminds me of my childhood", "I imagined myself dancing just like I used to in the old days", "This reminds me of my trip to Italy with my children"... The level of anxiety (Hamilton scale) dropped significantly from 9.4 (+/-2.2) to 3.4 (+/-2.6) between the first session and the fourth session (P<0.004). The differences observed between W4-W10 and W1-W10 were close to the threshold of significance due to a major drop in the anxiety level starting at W4 (P=NS). On the Cornell scale, the depression level dropped significantly from 10.8 (+/-5.3) to 2.2 (+/-1.9) between the first session and the fourth session (P<0.01). The differences observed between W4-W10 and W1-W10 were not significant (P=NS). The weight of the physical and emotional burden experienced by the main caregiver (Zarit scale) fell significantly from 30.2 (+/-11.7) to 15.6 (+/-10.4) between W1-W4 (P<0.002). The differences observed between W4-W10 and W1-W10 were not significant (P=NS). DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: This preliminary study demonstrates the feasibility as well as the initial efficacy of music therapy in terms of its impact on the overall care for patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease. This easily applicable technique can be useful in treating anxiety and depression in a patient with Alzheimer's disease and also in relieving the emotional and physical burden experienced by the main caregiver. Article Published Date : Feb 01, 2009

Abstract Title: Effects of music therapy on autonomic nervous system activity, incidence of heart failure events, and plasma cytokine and catecholamine levels in elderly patients with cerebrovascular disease and dementia. Abstract Source: Int Heart J. 2009 Jan;50(1):95-110. PMID: 19246850 Abstract Author(s): Kaoru Okada, Akira Kurita, Bonpei Takase, Toshiaki Otsuka, Eitaro Kodani, Yoshiki Kusama, Hirotsugu Atarashi, Kyoichi Mizuno Abstract: Music therapy (MT) has been used in geriatric nursing hospitals, but there has been no extensive research into whether it actually has beneficial effects on elderly patients with cerebrovascular disease (CVD) and dementia. We investigated the effects of MT on the autonomic nervous system and plasma cytokine and catecholamine levels in elderly patients with CVD and dementia, since these are related to aging and chronic geriatric disease. We also investigated the effects of MT on congestive heart failure (CHF) events.Eighty-seven patients with pre-existing CVD were enrolled in the study. We assigned patients into an MT group (n = 55) and non-MT group (n = 32). The MT group received MT at least once per week for 45 minutes over 10 times. Cardiac autonomic activity was assessed by heart rate variability (HRV). We measured plasma cytokine and catecholamine levels in both the MT group and non-MT group. We compared the incidence of CHF events between these two groups. In the MT group, rMSSD, pNN50, and HF were significantly increased by MT, whereas LF/HF was slightly decreased. In the non-MT group, there were no significant changes in any HRV parameters. Among cytokines, plasma interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the MT group was significantly lower than those in the non-MT group. Plasma adrenaline and noradrenaline levels were significantly lower in the MT group than in the non-MT group. CHF events were less frequent in the MT group than in the non-MT group (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that MT enhanced parasympathetic activities and decreased CHF by reducing plasma cytokine and catecholamine levels. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2009

Abstract Title: Music facilitate the neurogenesis, regeneration and repair of neurons. Abstract Source: Med Hypotheses. 2008 Nov;71(5):765-9. Epub 2008 Aug 8. PMID: 18692321 Abstract Author(s): Hajime Fukui, Kumiko Toyoshima Abstract: Experience has shown that therapy using music for therapeutic purposes has certain effects on neuropsychiatric disorders (both functional and organic disorders). However, the mechanisms of action underlying music therapy remain unknown, and scientific clarification has not advanced. While that study disproved the Mozart effect, the effects of music on the human body and mind were not disproved. In fact, more scientific studies on music have been conducted in recent years, mainly in the field of neuroscience, and the level of interest among researchers is increasing. The results of past studies have clarified that music influences and affects cranial nerves in humans from fetus to adult. The effects of music at a cellular level have not been clarified, and the mechanisms of action for the effects of music on the brain have not been elucidated. We propose that listening to music facilitates the neurogenesis, the regeneration and repair of cerebral nerves by adjusting the secretion of steroid hormones, ultimately leading to cerebral plasticity. Music affects levels of such steroids as cortisol (C), testosterone (T) and estrogen (E), and we believe that music also affects the receptor genes related to these substances, and related proteins. In the prevention of Alzheimer's disease and dementia, hormone replacement therapy has been shown to be effective, but at the same time, side effects have been documented, and the clinical application of hormone replacement therapy is facing a serious challenge. Conversely, music is noninvasive, and its existence is universal and mundane. Thus, if music can be used in medical care, the application of such a safe and inexpensive therapeutic option is limitless. Article Published Date : Nov 01, 2008

Abstract Title: The effects of improvisational music therapy on joint attention behaviors in autistic children: a randomized controlled study. Abstract Source: J Autism Dev Disord. 2008 Oct;38(9):1758-66. Epub 2008 Jul 1. PMID: 18592368 Abstract Author(s): Jinah Kim, Tony Wigram, Christian Gold Abstract: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of improvisational music therapy on joint attention behaviors in pre-school children with autism. It was a randomized controlled study employing a single subject comparison design in two different conditions, improvisational music therapy and play sessions with toys, and using standardized tools and DVD analysis of sessions to evaluate behavioral changes in children with autism. The overall results indicated that improvisational music therapy was more effective at facilitating joint attention behaviors and non-verbal social communication skills in children than play. Session analysis showed significantly more and lengthier events of eye contact and turn-taking in improvisational music therapy than play sessions. The implications of these findings are discussed further. Article Published Date : Oct 01, 2008

Abstract Title: The effect of patient-selected music on early postoperative pain, anxiety, and hemodynamic profile in cesarean section surgery. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2008 Sep;14(7):827-31. PMID: 18803492 Abstract Author(s): Amin Ebneshahidi, Masood Mohseni Abstract: BACKGROUND: After cesarean section surgery, routine pharmacologic methods of analgesia--opioids and benzodiazepines--may impair the immediate close contact of mother and neonate for their sedative and emetic effects. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to explore the effect of patient-selected music on postoperative pain, anxiety, opioid requirement, and hemodynamic profile. METHODS: A total of 80 patients, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I-II, scheduled to undergo general anesthesia and elective cesarean section surgery were enrolled. Patients were randomly allocated to receive 30 minutes of music or silence via headphones postoperatively. Pain and anxiety were measured with a visual analogue scale. Total postoperative morphine requirement as well as blood pressure and heart rate were recorded after the intervention period. RESULTS: Pain score and postoperative cumulative opioid consumption were significantly lower among patients in the music group (p < 0.05), while there were no group differences in terms of anxiety score, blood pressure, or heart rate (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Postoperative use of patient-selected music in cesarean section surgery would alleviate the pain and reduce the need for other analgesics, thus improving the recovery and early contact of mothers with their children. Article Published Date : Sep 01, 2008

Abstract Title: Music improves sleep quality in students. Abstract Source: J Adv Nurs. 2008 May;62(3):327-35. PMID: 18426457 Abstract Author(s): László Harmat, Johanna Takács, Róbert Bódizs Abstract: AIM: This paper is a report of a study to investigate the effects of music on sleep quality in young participants with poor sleep. BACKGROUND: Sleep disorders may result in fatigue, tiredness, depression and problems in daytime functioning. Music can reduce sympathetic nervous system activity, decrease anxiety, blood pressure, heart and respiratory rate and may have positive effects on sleep via muscle relaxation and distraction from thoughts. Control groups have not been used in most previous studies. METHODS: We used a three-group repeated measures design. Ninety-four students (aged between 19 and 28 years) with sleep complaints were studied in 2006. Participants listened for 45 minutes either to relaxing classical music (Group 1) or an audiobook (Group 2) at bedtime for 3 weeks. The control group (Group 3) received no intervention. Sleep quality was measured using the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index before the study and weekly during the intervention. Depressive symptoms in experimental group participants were measured using the Beck Depression Inventory. RESULTS: Repeated measures anova revealed a main effect of TIME (P < 0.0001) and an interaction between TIME and GROUPS (P < 0.0001). Post hoc tests with Bonferroni correction showed that music statistically significantly improved sleep quality (P < 0.0001). Sleep quality did not improve statistically significantly in the audiobook and the control group. Depressive symptoms decreased statistically significantly in the music group (P < 0.0001), but not in the group listening to audiobooks. CONCLUSION: Relaxing classical music is an effective intervention in reducing sleeping problems. Nurses could use this safe, cheap and easy to learn method to treat insomnia. Article Published Date : May 01, 2008

Abstract Title: Music listening enhances cognitive recovery and mood after middle cerebral artery stroke. Abstract Source: Brain. 2008 Mar;131(Pt 3):866-76. PMID: 18287122 Abstract Author(s): Teppo Särkämö, Mari Tervaniemi, Sari Laitinen, Anita Forsblom, Seppo Soinila, Mikko Mikkonen, Taina Autti, Heli M Silvennoinen, Jaakko Erkkilä, Matti Laine, Isabelle Peretz, Marja Hietanen Abstract: We know from animal studies that a stimulating and enriched environment can enhance recovery after stroke, but little is known about the effects of an enriched sound environment on recovery from neural damage in humans. In humans, music listening activates a wide-spread bilateral network of brain regions related to attention, semantic processing, memory, motor functions, and emotional processing. Music exposure also enhances emotional and cognitive functioning in healthy subjects and in various clinical patient groups. The potential role of music in neurological rehabilitation, however, has not been systematically investigated. This single-blind, randomized, and controlled trial was designed to determine whether everyday music listening can facilitate the recovery of cognitive functions and mood after stroke. In the acute recovery phase, 60 patients with a left or right hemisphere middle cerebral artery (MCA) stroke were randomly assigned to a music group, a language group, or a control group. During the following two months, the music and language groups listened daily to self-selected music or audio books, respectively, while the control group received no listening material. In addition, all patients received standard medical care and rehabilitation. All patients underwent an extensive neuropsychological assessment, which included a wide range of cognitive tests as well as mood and quality of life questionnaires, one week (baseline), 3 months, and 6 months after the stroke. Fifty-four patients completed the study. Results showed that recovery in the domains of verbal memory and focused attention improved significantly more in the music group than in the language and control groups. The music group also experienced less depressed and confused mood than the control group. These findings demonstrate for the first time that music listening during the early post-stroke stage can enhance cognitive recovery and prevent negative mood. The neural mechanisms potentially underlying these effects are discussed. Article Published Date : Mar 01, 2008

Abstract Title: Randomized clinical trial examining the effect of music therapy in stress response to day surgery. Abstract Source: Br J Surg. 2007 Aug;94(8):943-7. PMID: 17636513 Abstract Author(s): S Leardi, R Pietroletti, G Angeloni, S Necozione, G Ranalletta, B Del Gusto Abstract: BACKGROUND: Music therapy could reduce stress and the stress response. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of music therapy in alleviating stress during day surgery. METHODS: Sixty patients undergoing day surgery were randomized to one of three groups, each containing 20 patients. Before and during surgery, patients in group 1 listened to new age music and those in group 2 listened to a choice of music from one of four styles. Patients in group 3 (control group) heard the normal sounds of the operating theatre. Plasma levels of cortisol and subpopulations of lymphocytes were evaluated before, during and after operation. RESULTS: Plasma cortisol levels decreased during operation in both groups of patients who listened to music, but increased in the control group. Postoperative cortisol levels were significantly higher in group 1 than in group 2 (mean(s.d.) 14.21(6.96) versus 8.63(2.72) ng/dl respectively; P<0.050). Levels of natural killer lymphocytes decreased during surgery in groups 1 and 2, but increased in controls. Intraoperative levels of natural killer cells were significantly lower in group 1 than in group 3 (mean(s.d.) 212.2(89.3) versus 329.1(167.8) cells/microl; P<0.050). CONCLUSION: Perioperative music therapy changed the neurohormonal and immune stress response to day surgery, especially when the type of music was selected by the patient. Article Published Date : Aug 01, 2007

Abstract Title: The effect of Bach's magnificat on emotions, immune, and endocrine parameters during physiotherapy treatment of patients with infectious lung conditions. Abstract Source: J Music Ther. 2007 Summer;44(2):156-68. PMID: 17484523 Abstract Author(s): Frances H le Roux, Patrick J D Bouic, Maria M Bester Abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of Bach's Magnificat on emotions, immune, and endocrine parameters in patients of specific infectious lung conditions. Participants (N = 40; 9 men & 31 women) ranging in age from 40 to 75 participated in the study. Patients were randomly allocated to an experimental and control group. During a 3-day period the experimental group received physiotherapy with the selected music, while the control group only received physiotherapy. ANOVA statistics indicate significant changes in the following parameters: POMS-scale, CD4+:CD8+ ratio, cortisol, and cortisol:DHEA ratio. The intervention of music demonstrates communication between the mind and body.   Article Published Date : Jun 01, 2007

Abstract Title: Anxiolytic effect of music depends on ovarian steroid in female mice. Abstract Source: Behav Brain Res. 2007 Apr 16;179(1):50-9. Epub 2007 Jan 16. PMID: 17280725 Abstract Author(s): Sachiko Chikahisa, Atsuko Sano, Kazuyoshi Kitaoka, Ken-Ichi Miyamoto, Hiroyoshi Sei Article Affiliation: Department of Integrative Physiology, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan. Abstract: Music is known to be able to elicit emotional changes, including anxiolytic effects. The gonadal steroid hormones estradiol and progesterone have also been reported to play important roles in the modulation of anxiety. In the present study, we examined whether the effect of music on anxiety is related to ovarian steroid in female mice. Behavioral paradigms measuring anxiety were tested in gonadally intact (SHAM) and ovariectomized (OVX) female mice chronically treated with either placebo (OVX/Placebo), 17beta-estradiol (OVX/E), or progesterone (OVX/P). In the elevated plus maze, light-dark transition, and marble burying tests, SHAM and OVX/P mice exposed to music showed less anxiety than those exposed to white noise or silence while OVX/placebo mice did not show these effects at all. OVX/E mice showed the anxiolytic effect of music only in the marble burying test. Furthermore, pretreatment with progesterone's metabolite inhibitor completely prevented the anxiolytic effect of music in behavioral tests, while pretreatment with a progesterone receptor blocker did not prevent the anxiolytic effect of music. These results suggest that exposure to music reduces anxiety levels, and ovarian steroids, mainly progesterone, may be involved in the anxiolytic effect of music observed in female mice. Article Published Date : Apr 16, 2007

Abstract Title: Live music is beneficial to preterm infants in the neonatal intensive care unit environment. Abstract Source: Birth. 2006 Jun;33(2):131-6. PMID: 16732778 Abstract Author(s): Shmuel Arnon, Anat Shapsa, Liat Forman, Rivka Regev, Sofia Bauer, Ita Litmanovitz, Tzipora Dolfin Abstract: BACKGROUND: Music stimulation has been shown to provide significant benefits to preterm infants. We hypothesized that live music therapy was more beneficial than recorded music and might improve physiological and behavioral parameters of stable preterm infants in the neonatal intensive care unit. METHODS: Thirty-one stable infants randomly received live music, recorded music, and no music therapy over 3 consecutive days. A control of the environment noise level was imposed. Each therapy was delivered for 30 minutes. Inclusion criteria were postconceptional age > or = 32 weeks, weight > or = 1,500 g, hearing confirmed by distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs), and no active illness or documentation of hyperresponsiveness to the music. Heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and a behavioral assessment were recorded, every 5 minutes, before, during, and after therapy, allowing 30 minutes for each interval. The infant's state was given a numerical score as follows: 1, deep sleep; 2, light sleep; 3, drowsy; 4, quiet awake or alert; 5, actively awake and aroused; 6, highly aroused, upset, or crying; and 7, prolonged respiratory pause > 8 seconds. The volume range of both music therapies was from 55 to 70 dB. Parents and medical personnel completed a brief questionnaire indicating the effect of the three therapies. RESULTS: Live music therapy had no significant effect on physiological and behavioral parameters during the 30-minute therapy; however, at the 30-minute interval after the therapy ended, it significantly reduced heart rate (150 +/- 3.3 beats/min before therapy vs 127 +/- 6.5 beats/min after therapy) and improved the behavioral score (3.1 +/- 0.8 before therapy vs 1.3 +/- 0.6 after therapy, p < 0.001). Recorded music and no music therapies had no significant effect on any of the tested parameters during all intervals. Both medical personnel and parents preferred live music therapy to recorded music and no music therapies; however, parents considered live music therapy significantly more effective than the other therapies. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with recorded music or no music therapy, live music therapy is associated with a reduced heart rate and a deeper sleep at 30 minutes after therapy in stable preterm infants. Both recorded and no music therapies had no significant effect on the tested physiological and behavioral parameters. Article Published Date : Jun 01, 2006

Abstract Title: Music therapy for autistic spectrum disorder. Abstract Source: Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2006(2):CD004381. Epub 2006 Apr 19. PMID: 16625601 Abstract Author(s): C Gold, T Wigram, C Elefant Abstract: BACKGROUND: The central impairments of people with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) include social interaction and communication. Music therapy uses music and its elements to enable communication and expression, thus attempting to address some of the core problems of people with ASD. OBJECTIVES: To review the effects of music therapy for individuals with autistic spectrum disorders. SEARCH STRATEGY: The following databases were searched: CENTRAL, 2005, (Issue 3); Medline, (1966 to July 2004); Embase, (1980 to July 2004); LILACS, (1982 to July 2004); PsycINFO, (1872 to July 2004); CINAHL, (1982 to July 2004); ERIC, (1966 to July 2004); ASSIA, (1987 to July 2004); Sociofile, (1963 to July 2004); Dissertation Abstracts International, (late 1960's to July 2004). These searches were supplemented by searching specific sources for music therapy literature and manual searches of reference lists. Personal contacts to some investigators were made. SELECTION CRITERIA: All randomised controlled trials or controlled clinical trials comparing music therapy or music therapy added to standard care to "placebo" therapy, no treatment or standard care. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Studies were independently selected, quality assessed and data extracted by two authors. Continuous outcomes were synthesised using a standardised mean difference (SMD) in order to enable a meta-analysis combining different scales, and to facilitate the interpretation of effect sizes. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I(2) statistic. MAIN RESULTS: Three small studies were included (total n = 24). These examined the short-term effect of brief music therapy interventions (daily sessions over one week) for autistic children. Music therapy was superior to "placebo" therapy with respect to verbal and gestural communicative skills (verbal: 2 RCTs, n = 20, SMD 0.36 CI 0.15 to 0.57; gestural: 2 RCTs, n = 20, SMD 0.50 CI 0.22 to 0.79). Effects on behavioural problems were not significant. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: The included studies were of limited applicability to clinical practice. However, the findings indicate that music therapy may help children with autistic spectrum disorder to improve their communicative skills. More research is needed to examine whether the effects of music therapy are enduring, and to investigate the effects of music therapy in typical clinical practice. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2006

Abstract Title: Stress reduction and analgesia in patients exposed to calming music postoperatively: a randomized controlled trial. Abstract Source: Eur J Anaesthesiol. 2005 Feb;22(2):96-102. PMID: 15816586 Abstract Author(s): U Nilsson, M Unosson, N Rawal Abstract: BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This randomized controlled trial was designed to evaluate, first, whether intra- or postoperative music therapy could influence stress and immune response during and after general anaesthesia and second, if there was a different response between patients exposed to music intra- or postoperatively. METHOD: Seventy-five patients undergoing open hernia repair as day care surgery were randomly allocated to three groups: intraoperative music, postoperative music and silence (control group). Anaesthesia and postoperative analgesia were standardized and the same surgeon performed all the operations. Stress response was assessed during and after surgery by determining the plasma cortisol and blood glucose levels. Immune function was evaluated by studying immunoglobulin A (IgA) levels. Patients' postoperative pain, anxiety, blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR) and oxygen saturation were also studied as stress markers. RESULTS: There was a significantly greater decrease in the level of cortisol in the postoperative music group vs. the control group (206 and 72 mmol L(-1) decreases, respectively) after 2 h in the post anaesthesia care unit. The postoperative music group had less anxiety and pain and required less morphine after 1 h compared with the control group. In the postoperative music group the total requirement of morphine was significantly lower than in the control group. The intraoperative music group reported less pain after 1 h in the post anaesthesia care unit. There was no difference in IgA, blood glucose, BP, HR and oxygen saturation between the groups. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that intraoperative music may decrease postoperative pain, and that postoperative music therapy may reduce anxiety, pain and morphine consumption. Article Published Date : Feb 01, 2005

Abstract Title: Music improves sleep quality in older adults. Abstract Source: J Adv Nurs. 2005 Feb;49(3):234-44. PMID: 15660547 Abstract Author(s): Hui-Ling Lai, Marion Good Article Affiliation: Community Health Center, Buddhist Tzu-Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan, ROC. Abstract: AIM: The aim of this paper is to report an investigation of the effects of soft music on sleep quality in older community-dwelling men and women in Taiwan. BACKGROUND: Sleep is a complex rhythmic state that may be affected by the ageing process. Few studies have focused on the effects of music, a non-pharmacological method of improving the quality of sleep in older adults. METHOD: A randomized controlled trial was used with a two-group repeated measures design. Sixty people aged 60-83 years with difficulty in sleeping were recruited through community leaders and screened using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Those reporting depression, cognitive impairment, medical or environmental problems that might interfere with sleep; and those who used sleeping medications, meditation, or caffeine at bedtime were excluded. Participants listened to their choice among six 45-minute sedative music tapes at bedtime for 3 weeks. There were five types of Western and one of Chinese music. Sleep quality was measured with the PSQI before the study and at three weekly post-tests. Groups were comparable on demographic variables, anxiety, depressive symptoms, physical activity, bedtime routine, herbal tea use, napping, pain, and pretest overall sleep quality. RESULTS: Music resulted in significantly better sleep quality in the experimental group, as well as significantly better components of sleep quality: better perceived sleep quality, longer sleep duration, greater sleep efficiency, shorter sleep latency, less sleep disturbance and less daytime dysfunction (P = 0.04-0.001). Sleep improved weekly, indicating a cumulative dose effect. CONCLUSION: The findings provide evidence for the use of soothing music as an empirically-based intervention for sleep in older people. Article Published Date : Feb 01, 2005

Abstract Title: Music therapy for schizophrenia or schizophrenia-like illnesses. Abstract Source: Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2005(2):CD004025. Epub 2005 Apr 18. PMID: 15846692 Abstract Author(s): C Gold, T O Heldal, T Dahle, T Wigram Abstract: BACKGROUND: Music therapy is a psychotherapeutic method that uses musical interaction as a means of communication and expression. The aim of the therapy is to help people with serious mental illness to develop relationships and to address issues they may not be able to using words alone. OBJECTIVES: To review the effects of music therapy, or music therapy added to standard care, compared to placebo, standard care or no treatment for people with serious mental illnesses such as schizophrenia. SEARCH STRATEGY: The Cochrane Schizophrenia Group's Register (July 2002) was searched. This was supplemented by hand searching of music therapy journals, manual searches of reference lists, and contacting relevant authors. SELECTION CRITERIA: All randomised controlled trials that compared music therapy with standard care or other psychosocial interventions for schizophrenia. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Studies were reliably selected, quality assessed and data extracted. Data were excluded where more than 30% of participants in any group were lost to follow up. Non-skewed continuous endpoint data from valid scales were synthesised using a standardised mean difference (SMD). If statistical heterogeneity was found, treatment 'dosage' and treatment approach were examined as possible sources of heterogeneity. MAIN RESULTS: Four studies were included. These examined the effects of music therapy over the short to medium term (1 to 3 months), with treatment 'dosage' varying from 7 to 78 sessions. Music therapy added to standard care was superior to standard care alone for global state (medium term, 1 RCT, n = 72, RR 0.10 CI 0.03 to 0.31, NNT 2 CI 1.2 to 2.2). Continuous data suggested some positive effects on general mental state (1 RCT, n=69, SMD average endpoint PANSS -0.36 CI -0.85 to 0.12; 1 RCT, n=70, SMD average endpoint BPRS -1.25 CI -1.77 to -0.73),on negative symptoms (3 RCTs, n=180, SMD average endpoint SANS -0.86 CI -1.17 to -0.55) and social functioning (1 RCT, n=70, SMD average endpoint SDSI score -0.78 CI -1.27 to -0.28). However these latter effects were inconsistent across studies and depended on the number of music therapy sessions. All results were for the 1-3 month follow up. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Music therapy as an addition to standard care helps people with schizophrenia to improve their global state and may also improve mental state and functioning if a sufficient number of music therapy sessions are provided. Further research should address the dose-effect relationship and the long-term effects of music therapy. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2005

Abstract Title: Music alters constitutively expressed opiate and cytokine processes in listeners. Abstract Source: Med Sci Monit. 2004 Jun;10(6):MS18-27. Epub 2004 Jun 1. PMID: 15173680 Abstract Author(s): George B Stefano, Wei Zhu, Patrick Cadet, Elliott Salamon, Kirk J Mantione Abstract: BACKGROUND: Listening to music as a means of inducing a sense of calm and relaxation has been known for some time. Although these effects are robust, little research has been conducted into exploring the underlying neurochemical changes, which must occur to provide an individual with these objective sensations. MATERIAL/METHODS: In the current report we utilize an AB design to explore observed differences in blood plasma signaling molecules in pre- and post music listening groups when compared with controls. We focus chiefly on cytokines, as well as peripheral blood mononuclear cells and polymorphonuclear cells. We utilized reverse transcription followed by real-time polymerase chain reactions to determine relative mRNA expression for the mu opiate receptor gene. Using high pressure liquid chromatography coupled to electrochemical detection as well as nano electrospray ionization double quadrupole orthogonal acceleration time of flight-mass spectrometry we determined opiate alkaloid levels. RESULTS: Our findings are two-fold: with regard to mu opiate receptor expression, mononuclear cells showed a statistically significant increase in subjects in the music group compared to the control. Plasma morphine levels were found to be non-significantly lower in subjects after listening to music when compared to control subjects whereas morphine 6 glucuronide levels increased slightly, suggesting morphine's conversion to morphine 6 glucuronide. IL- 6 levels were significantly lower as well whereas IL-1b, IL-10 and cortisol values were unchanged. CONCLUSIONS: Taken together, it appears that music-listeners exhibit plasma signal molecule changes consistent with the physiological changes associated with the reported actions of music, i.e, lower blood pressure. Article Published Date : Jun 01, 2004

Abstract Title: [Music and chronic muscular-skeletal pain: the evocative potential of mental images]. Abstract Source: Rev Lat Am Enfermagem. 2004 Mar-Apr;12(2):235-41. Epub 2004 May 19. PMID: 15303228 Abstract Author(s): Eliseth Ribeiro Leão, Maria Julia Paes da Silva Article Affiliation: Hospital Samaritano. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Abstract: Ninety women with diagnosed fibromyalgia, work-related repetitive strain injury/osteoarticular diseases (RSI) and diseases related to the spinal column were submitted to individual listening of three musical pieces. Data were obtained by means of interviews and pain intensity was evaluated by the verbal numeric scale (0-10) before and after listening to the music. The mental images were quantified by analyzing the drawings made during each listening session. The three groups presented a statistically significant reduction in pain intensity at the end of the listening session (p<0.001). The mental images did not differ in quantity, between Ravel and Wagner. The Mix presented quantitatively lower results. The musical structures related to the production of images and the observed therapeutic effect suggests that structural analyses may contribute to the use of music by nursing. Article Published Date : Mar 01, 2004

Abstract Title: Measuring effects of music, noise, and healing energy using a seed germination bioassay. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2004 Feb;10(1):113-22. PMID: 15025885 Abstract Author(s): Katherine Creath, Gary E Schwartz Article Affiliation: Center for Frontier Medicine in Biofield Science and Department of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721-0094, USA. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To measure biologic effects of music, noise, and healing energy without human preferences or placebo effects using seed germination as an objective biomarker. METHODS: A series of five experiments were performed utilizing okra and zucchini seeds germinated in acoustically shielded, thermally insulated, dark, humid growth chambers. Conditions compared were an untreated control, musical sound, pink noise, and healing energy. Healing energy was administered for 15-20 minutes every 12 hours with the intention that the treated seeds would germinate faster than the untreated seeds. The objective marker was the number of seeds sprouted out of groups of 25 seeds counted at 12-hour intervals over a 72-hour growing period. Temperature and relative humidity were monitored every 15 minutes inside the seed germination containers. A total of 14 trials were run testing a total of 4600 seeds. RESULTS: Musical sound had a highly statistically significant effect on the number of seeds sprouted compared to the untreated control over all five experiments for the main condition (p<0.002) and over time (p<0.000002). This effect was independent of temperature, seed type, position in room, specific petri dish, and person doing the scoring. Musical sound had a significant effect compared to noise and an untreated control as a function of time (p<0.03) while there was no significant difference between seeds exposed to noise and an untreated control. Healing energy also had a significant effect compared to an untreated control (main condition, p<0.0006) and over time (p<0.0001) with a magnitude of effect comparable to that of musical sound. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that sound vibrations (music and noise) as well as biofields (bioelectromagnetic and healing intention) both directly affect living biologic systems, and that a seed germination bioassay has the sensitivity to enable detection of effects caused by various applied energetic conditions. Article Published Date : Feb 01, 2004

Abstract Title: Receptive music therapy and salivary histamine secretion. Abstract Source: J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol. 2004;15(3-4):303-9. PMID: 20024597 Abstract Author(s): A Kejr, C Gigante, V Hames, C Krieg, J Mages, N König, J Kalus, K Schudmann, F Diel Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Receptive music therapy (rMT) not only provides a good feeling but also a more effective healing process and mastery of stress. METHODS AND RESULTS: In a preliminary study it could be shown that American Doudouk-music (feel-good music) suppressed salivary histamine secretion in two groups (n = 4) of allergic and non-allergic young volunteers. Stress was induced by eating adverse food/allergenic food during music exposure. There was no response in the vein blood samples and no significant difference between the allergic and non-allergic groups. CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that saliva is an appropriate medium for histamine measurements during music exposure. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2004

Abstract Title: A pilot study into the therapeutic effects of music therapy at a cancer help center. Abstract Source: Altern Ther Health Med. 2001 Jan;7(1):48-56. PMID: 11191042 Abstract Author(s): S J Burns, M S Harbuz, F Hucklebridge, L Bunt Abstract: CONTEXT: Since the mid-1980s, music therapy has been a regular feature of the residential program at the internationally renowned Bristol Cancer Help Centre, United Kingdom. Music therapy complements other therapeutic interventions available to residents at the center. OBJECTIVE: To compare the therapeutic effects of listening to music in a relaxed state with the active involvement of music improvisation (the playing of tuned and untuned percussion instruments) in a music therapy group setting and to investigate the potential influence of music therapy on positive emotions and the immune system of cancer patients. DESIGN: A quantitative pre-posttest, psychological/physiological measures, and qualitative focus group design. SETTING: A cancer help center that offers a fully integrated range of complementary therapies, psychological support, spiritual healing, and nutritional and self-help techniques addressing the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs of cancer patients and their supporters. PARTICIPANTS: Twenty-nine cancer patients, aged 21 to 68 years. INTERVENTION: Group music therapy interventions of listening to recorded/live music in a relaxed state and improvisation. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Increased well-being and relaxation and less tension during the listening experience. Increased well-being and energy and less tension during improvisation. Increased levels of salivary immunoglobulin A and decreased levels of cortisol in both experiences. RESULTS: Psychological data showed increased well-being and relaxation as well as altered energy levels in both interventions. Physiological data showed increased salivary immunoglobulin A in the listening experience and a decrease in cortisol levels in both interventions over a 2-day period. Preliminary evidence of a link between positive emotions and the immune system of cancer patients was found. CONCLUSIONS: These findings, which link listening to music in a relaxed state and improvisation to alterations in psychological and physiological parameters, may provide a better understanding of the effectiveness of music therapy for cancer patients. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2001

Abstract Title: Use of binaural beat tapes for treatment of anxiety: a pilot study of tape preference and outcomes. Abstract Source: Altern Ther Health Med. 2001 Jan ;7(1):58-63. PMID: 11191043 Abstract Author(s): R P Le Scouarnec, R M Poirier, J E Owens, J Gauthier, A G Taylor, P A Foresman Article Affiliation: R P Le Scouarnec Abstract: CONTEXT: Recent studies and anecdotal reports suggest that binaural auditory beats can affect mood, performance on vigilance tasks, and anxiety. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether mildly anxious people would report decreased anxiety after listening daily for 1 month to tapes imbedded with tones that create binaural beats, and whether they would show a definite tape preference among 3 tapes. DESIGN: A 1-group pre-posttest pilot study. SETTING: Patients' homes. PARTICIPANTS: A volunteer sample of 15 mildly anxious patients seen in the Clinique Psyché, Montreal, Quebec. INTERVENTION: Participants were asked to listen at least 5 times weekly for 4 weeks to 1 or more of 3 music tapes containing tones that produce binaural beats in the electroencephalogram delta/theta frequency range. Participants also were asked to record tape usage, tape preference, and anxiety ratings in a journal before and after listening to the tape or tapes. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Anxiety ratings before and after tape listening, pre- and post-study State-Trait Anxiety Inventory scores, and tape preferences documented in daily journals. RESULTS: Listening to the binaural beat tapes resulted in a significant reduction in the anxiety score reported daily in patients' diaries. The number of times participants listened to the tapes in 4 weeks ranged from 10 to 17 (an average of 1.4 to 2.4 times per week) for approximately 30 minutes per session. End-of-study tape preferences indicated that slightly more participants preferred tape B, with its pronounced and extended patterns of binaural beats, over tapes A and C. Changes in pre- and posttest listening State-Trait Anxiety Inventory scores trended toward a reduction of anxiety, but these differences were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: Listening to binaural beat tapes in the delta/theta electroencephalogram range may be beneficial in reducing mild anxiety. Future studies should account for music preference among participants and include age as a factor in outcomes, incentives to foster tape listening, and a physiologic measure of anxiety reduction. A controlled trial that includes binaural beat tapes as an adjunctive treatment to conventional therapy for mild anxiety may be warranted. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2000

Abstract Title: Music making as a tool for promoting brain plasticity across the life span. Abstract Source: J Agric Food Chem. 1999 Mar;47(3):840-4. PMID: 20889966 Abstract Author(s): Catherine Y Wan, Gottfried Schlaug Article Affiliation: Department of Neurology, Music and Neuroimaging Laboratory, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA. Abstract: Playing a musical instrument is an intense, multisensory, and motor experience that usually commences at an early age and requires the acquisition and maintenance of a range of skills over the course of a musician's lifetime. Thus, musicians offer an excellent human model for studying the brain effects of acquiring specialized sensorimotor skills. For example, musicians learn and repeatedly practice the association of motor actions with specific sound and visual patterns (musical notation) while receiving continuous multisensory feedback. This association learning can strengthen connections between auditory and motor regions (e.g., arcuate fasciculus) while activating multimodal integration regions (e.g., around the intraparietal sulcus). We argue that training of this neural network may produce cross-modal effects on other behavioral or cognitive operations that draw on this network. Plasticity in this network may explain some of the sensorimotor and cognitive enhancements that have been associated with music training. These enhancements suggest the potential for music making as an interactive treatment or intervention for neurological and developmental disorders, as well as those associated with normal aging. Article Published Date : Mar 01, 1999