Abstract Title:
Laughter yoga activities for older people living in residential aged care homes: A feasibility study.
Abstract Source:
Australas J Ageing. 2017 Jul 12. Epub 2017 Jul 12. PMID: 28699684
Abstract Author(s):
Julie M Ellis, Ros Ben-Moshe, Karen Teshuva
Article Affiliation:
Julie M Ellis
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of a laughter yoga activities (LY) program for older people living in residential aged care homes (RACHs).
METHODS: A 6-week LY program was implemented at three RACHs with twenty-eight residents. A pre-post design was used to measure positive and negative affect, happiness, blood pressure and pulse.
RESULTS: Post-session mean scores for positive mood, and happiness were significantly higher than pre-session scores in weeks 1, 3 and 6, and the post-session mean negative mood scores were significantly lower than pre-session scores in weeks 3 and 6. Post-session readings for mean systolic blood pressure were significantly lower than pre-session readings in weeks 1 and 6.
CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates the potential for using LY to improve mood and lower blood pressure of older people living in RACHs.
Article Published Date : Jul 11, 2017
Abstract Title:
Therapeutic Benefits of Laughter in Mental Health: A Theoretical Review.
Abstract Source:
Tohoku J Exp Med. 2016 ;239(3):243-9. PMID: 27439375
Abstract Author(s):
JongEun Yim
Article Affiliation:
JongEun Yim
Abstract:
In modern society, fierce competition and socioeconomic interaction stress the quality of life, causing a negative influence on a person's mental health. Laughter is a positive sensation, and seems to be a useful and healthy way to overcome stress. Laughter therapy is a kind of cognitive-behavioral therapies that could make physical, psychological, and social relationships healthy, ultimately improving the quality of life. Laughter therapy, as a non-pharmacological, alternative treatment, has a positive effect on the mental health and the immune system. In addition, laughter therapy does not require specialized preparations, such as suitable facilities and equipment, and it is easily accessible and acceptable. For these reasons, the medical community has taken notice and attempted to include laughter therapy to more traditional therapies. Decreasing stress-making hormones found in the blood, laughter can mitigate the effects of stress. Laughter decreases serum levels of cortisol, epinephrine, growth hormone, and 3,4-dihydrophenylacetic acid (a major dopamine catabolite), indicating a reversal of the stress response. Depression is a disease, where neurotransmitters in the brain, such as norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin, are reduced, and there is something wrong in the mood control circuit of the brain. Laughter can alter dopamine and serotonin activity. Furthermore, endorphins secreted by laughter can help when people are uncomfortable or in a depressed mood. Laughter therapy is a noninvasive and non-pharmacological alternative treatment for stress and depression, representative cases that have a negative influence on mental health. In conclusion, laughter therapy is effective and scientifically supported as a single or adjuvant therapy.
Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2015
Abstract Title:
The effects of humor therapy on nursing home residents measured using observational methods: the SMILE cluster randomized trial.
Abstract Source:
J Am Med Dir Assoc. 2014 Aug ;15(8):564-9. Epub 2014 May 9. PMID: 24814320
Abstract Author(s):
Lee-Fay Low, Belinda Goodenough, Jennifer Fletcher, Kenny Xu, Anne-Nicole Casey, Lynn Chenoweth, Richard Fleming, Peter Spitzer, Jean-Paul Bell, Henry Brodaty
Article Affiliation:
Lee-Fay Low
Abstract:
OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effects of humor therapy assessed using observational methods on agitation, engagement, positive behaviors, affect, and contentment.
DESIGN: Single-blind cluster randomized controlled trial.
SETTING: A total of 35 Sydney nursing homes.
PARTICIPANTS: All eligible residents within geographically defined areas within each nursing home were invited to participate.
INTERVENTION: Professional"ElderClowns"provided 9 to 12 weekly humor therapy sessions, augmented by resident engagement by trained staff"LaughterBosses."Controls received usual care.
MEASUREMENTS: The Behavior Engagement Affect Measure (BEAM) touchpad observational tool was used to capture real-time behavioral data. The tool assesses the duration in seconds of agitation, positive behavior toward others, engagement, and affect (angry, anxious, happy, neutral, sad).
RESULTS: Seventeen nursing homes (189 residents) received the intervention and 18 homes (209 residents) received usual care. Over 26 weeks, in comparison with controls, the humor therapy group decreased in duration of high agitation (effect size = 0.168 and 0.129 at 13 and 26 weeks, respectively) and increased in duration of happiness (effect size = 0.4 and 0.236 at 13 and 26 weeks, respectively).
CONCLUSION: We confirmed that humor therapy decreases agitation and also showed that it increases happiness. Researchers may consider evaluating impacts of nonpharmaceutical interventions on positive outcomes. Computer-assisted observational measures should be considered, particularly for residents with dementia and when the reliability of staff is uncertain.
Article Published Date : Jul 31, 2014
Abstract Title:
The effect of humor on short-term memory in older adults: a new component for whole-person wellness.
Abstract Source:
Adv Mind Body Med. 2014 ;28(2):16-24. PMID: 24682001
Abstract Author(s):
Gurinder Singh Bains, Lee S Berk, Noha Daher, Everett Lohman, Ernie Schwab, Jerrold Petrofsky, Pooja Deshpande
Article Affiliation:
Gurinder Singh Bains
Abstract:
CONTEXT: For older adults, the damaging effects of aging and stress can impair the ability to learn and sustain memory. Humor, with its associated mirthful laughter, can reduce stress and cortisol, a stress hormone. Chronic release of cortisol can damage hippocampus neurons, leading to impairment of learning and memory.
OBJECTIVES: The primary goal of this study was to determine whether watching a humorous video had an effect on short-term memory in an older population.
DESIGN: The research team designed a randomized, controlled trial.
SETTING: The study took place at Loma Linda University in Loma Linda, California.
PARTICIPANTS: The research team recruited 20 normal, healthy, older adults, 11 males and 9 females.
INTERVENTION: The humor group (n = 10, mean = 69.3± 3.7 y) self-selected 1 of 2 humorous videos--a Red Skelton comedy or a montage of America's Funniest Home Videos--and watched it for 20 min. A control group (n = 10, mean = 68.7 ± 5.5 y) sat calmly for 20 min and were not allowed to read, sleep, or talk on a cell phone.
OUTCOME MEASURES: The Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test was used to assess short-term memory--learning ability, delayed recall, and visual recognition. Salivary cortisol levels were measured at predetermined times.
RESULTS: Learning ability improved by 38.5% and 24.0% in the humor and control groups, respectively (P = .014). Delayed recall improved by 43.6% and 20.3% in the humor and control groups, respectively (P =.029). Within the humor group, delayed recall (43.6%) was significant compared with learning ability (38.5%) (P = .002). At 3 predetermined time points, significant decreases in salivary cortisol were observed in the humor group (P = .047, P = .046, and P = .062, respectively).
CONCLUSION: The study's findings suggest that humor can have clinical benefits and rehabilitative implications and can be implemented in programs that support whole-person wellness for older adults. Learning ability and delayed recall are important to these individuals for a better quality of life--considering mind, body, spirit, social, and economic aspects. Older adults may have age-associated memory deficiencies. However, medical practitioners now can offer positive, enjoyable, and beneficial humor therapies to improve these deficiencies.
Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2013
Abstract Title:
The effect of laughter therapy on radiation dermatitis in patients with breast cancer: a single-blind prospective pilot study.
Abstract Source:
Onco Targets Ther. 2014 ;7:2053-9. Epub 2014 Nov 4. PMID: 25395864
Abstract Author(s):
Moonkyoo Kong, Sung Hee Shin, Eunmi Lee, Eun Kyoung Yun
Article Affiliation:
Moonkyoo Kong
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: There have not yet been any published studies on the effects of laughter therapy on radiation-induced dermatitis in breast cancer patients treated with radiotherapy (RT). We assessed the effectiveness of laughter therapy in preventing radiation dermatitis in patients with breast cancer.
METHODS: Thirty-seven patients were prospectively enrolled in this study. Eighteen patients were assigned to the experimental group and the other 19 patients were assigned to the control group. The patients who were assigned to the experimental group received laughter therapy during RT. Laughter therapy was started at the onset of RT and was provided twice a week until completion of RT. The patients who were assigned to the control group only received RT without laughter therapy. The grade of radiation dermatitis was scored by a radiation oncologist who was blinded to subject assignment. The patients' evaluation of pain within the RT field was also assessed.
RESULTS: In the experimental group, radiation dermatitis of grade 3, 2, and 1 developed in five (33.3%), five (33.3%), and five patients (33.3%), respectively. In comparison, in the control group, radiation dermatitis of grade 3, 2, 1, and 0 developed in seven (36.8%), nine (47.4%), two (10.5%), and one patient (5.3%), respectively. The experimental group exhibited a lower incidence of grade 2 or worse radiation dermatitis than the control group (33.3% versus 47.4%). The mean maximal pain scores in the experimental and control group were 2.53 and 3.95, respectively. The experimental group complained of less severe pain than the control group during RT. However, these differences were not statistically significant.
CONCLUSION: The results of this study show that laughter therapy can have a beneficial role in preventing radiation dermatitis in patients with breast cancer. To confirm the results of our study, well-designed randomized studies with large sample sizes are required.
Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2013
Abstract Title:
[Effects of laughter therapy on postpartum fatigue and stress responses of postpartum women].
Abstract Source:
J Korean Acad Nurs. 2011 Jun ;41(3):294-301. PMID: 21804338
Abstract Author(s):
Hye Sook Shin, Kyung Hee Ryu, Young A Song
Article Affiliation:
Hye Sook Shin
Abstract:
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of laughter therapy on postpartum fatigue and stress responses of postpartum women.
METHODS: The research design was a nonequivalent control group non-synchronized design. The participants were 67 postpartum women who agreed to participate in this study, selected by convenience sampling: (experiment group-33 and control group-34). The data were collected from August 5 to September 30, 2010. The experimental group received laughter therapy from a laughter therapy expert for 60 min, twice a week for 2 weeks, a total of 4 sessions. To evaluate the effects of laughter therapy, postpartum fatigue by self-report questionnaire and cortisol concentration in breast milk were measured. The data were analyzed using the SPSS WIN 13.0 Program.
RESULTS: The first hypothesis that"the degree of postpartum fatigue in the experimental group participating in laughter therapy would be lower than that of the control group"was accepted. These findings indicate that laughter therapy has a positive effect on decreasing postpartum fatigue.
CONCLUSION: The finding provides evidence for use of complementary and alternative nursing in Sanhujori facilities and obstetric units to reduce postpartum women's fatigue.
Article Published Date : May 31, 2011
Abstract Title:
[Effects of laughter therapy on depression, quality of life, resilience and immune responses in breast cancer survivors].
Abstract Source:
J Korean Acad Nurs. 2011 Jun ;41(3):285-93. PMID: 21804337
Abstract Author(s):
Eun A Cho, Hyun Ei Oh
Article Affiliation:
Eun A Cho
Abstract:
PURPOSE: In this study, the effects of laughter therapy on levels of depression, quality of life, resilience and immune responses in breast cancer survivors were examined.
METHODS: A quasi-experimental nonequivalent control group, pretest-posttest design was used. Participants (n=37) included breast cancer survivors who finished chemotheraphy and radiation therapy: 16 in the experiment group and 21 in the control group. Data were collected from August to November 2009. The experimental group participated in laughter therapy eight times, twice a week for 60 min per session. Questionnaires were used to measure pretest and posttest levels of depression, quality of life and resilience. A blood test was used to analyze changes in Total T cell, T helper, T suppressor, Th/Ts ratio, Total B cell, T cell/B cell ratio and NK cell for immune responses.
RESULTS: The results showed that laughter therapy was effective in increasing the quality of life and resilience in breast cancer survivors. but depression and immune responses did not differ significantly between the groups.
CONCLUSION: The results of the study indicate that laughter therapy may be an effective nursing intervention to improve quality of life and resilience in breast cancer survivors.
Article Published Date : May 31, 2011
Abstract Title:
A case of laughter therapy that helped improve advanced gastric cancer.
Abstract Source:
Jpn Hosp. 2010 Jul(29):59-64. PMID: 21706962
Abstract Author(s):
Satoru Noji, Kazue Takayanagi
Article Affiliation:
Noji Clinic. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Abstract:
We have reported the case of a patient diagnosed as having advanced gastric cancer at the age of 88 years old. An endoscopy revealed a type-2 gastric cancer of 25 x 30 mm in the lesser curvature of the middle stomach body and an IIa gastric cancer with T2 SS and cardiac accessory lesions. Both the type-2 and IIa lesions were defined as tub1 with surrounding atrophic gastritis and entero-epithelium metaplastic carcinoma. Considering the patient's age and her desire not to receive cancer treatment, we prescribed laughter therapy as recommended by the Society for Healing Environment. The program was implemented in a laughter-inducing environment and consisted of five stages: (1) Making the patient feel safe, (2) Relaxing the patient, (3) Increasing the effectiveness, (4) Improving her condition and (5) Increasing her joy of living. One year and seven months later, an endoscopy of the lesser curvature of the middle stomach body indicated that the lesions clearly improved with a morphological reduction into IIa + IIc masses. A tissue biopsy revealed that nucleus abnormality clearly improved from the initial diagnosis, with no irregularity in size. The suspected lesion was localized to a limited area near the stomach wall. Although partial gastric adenocarcinoma was suspected, the cancers turned into gastric adenoma, atrophic gastritis, and enteroepithelium metaplastic carcinoma. Now, five years after the initial diagnosis, she maintains a good condition. Laughter, one of our casual behaviors, has the effect of reducing the stress experienced by the human body. Laughter is expected to become alternative medicine in the future, and we hope to see more reports and evidence on soothing therapies using laughter.
Article Published Date : Jul 01, 2010
Abstract Title:
Reconstructing the evolution of laughter in great apes and humans.
Abstract Source:
Curr Biol. 2009 Jul 14;19(13):1106-11. Epub 2009 Jun 4. PMID: 19500987
Abstract Author(s):
Marina Davila Ross, Michael J Owren, Elke Zimmermann
Article Affiliation:
Centre for the Study of Emotion, Psychology Department, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2DY, UK; Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover 30559, Germany. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Abstract:
Human emotional expressions, such as laughter, are argued to have their origins in ancestral nonhuman primate displays. To test this hypothesis, the current work examined the acoustics of tickle-induced vocalizations from infant and juvenile orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, and bonobos, as well as tickle-induced laughter produced by human infants. Resulting acoustic data were then coded as character states and submitted to quantitative phylogenetic analysis. Acoustic outcomes revealed both important similarities and differences among the five species. Furthermore, phylogenetic trees reconstructed from the acoustic data matched the well-established trees based on comparative genetics. Taken together, the results provide strong evidence that tickling-induced laughter is homologous in great apes and humans and support the more general postulation of phylogenetic continuity from nonhuman displays to human emotional expressions. Findings also show that distinctively human laughter characteristics such as predominantly regular, stable voicing and consistently egressive airflow are nonetheless traceable to characteristics of shared ancestors with great apes.
Article Published Date : Jul 14, 2009
Abstract Title:
The effect of mirthful laughter on the human cardiovascular system.
Abstract Source:
Med Hypotheses. 2009 May 26. PMID: 19477604
Abstract Author(s):
Michael Miller, William F Fry
Abstract:
It has become increasingly recognized and more widely acknowledged during the past several decades, that a complex relationship exists between behavior associated with emotion and the human cardiovascular (CV) system. Early studies focused on the interplay between negative emotions and elevated CV risk, an effect that has in large part been attributed to increased adrenergic activity. Thus, a variety of adverse CV effects ranging from sudden cardiac death triggered by natural disasters such as earthquakes to transient myocardial stunning resulting from heightened sympathetic overload have been identified in response to acute emotional distress. In fact, the biologic interplay between emotion and CV health has been greatly enhanced through studies of the vascular endothelium. As the largest organ in humans, the inner blood vessel lining serves as a conduit for the transfer of blood cells, lipids and various nutrients across the lumen to neighboring tissues. Healthy endothelial cells secrete vasoactive chemicals, most notably endothelial-derived relaxing factor or nitric oxide (NO), that effects smooth muscle relaxation and vessel dilation via a cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) dependent protein kinase signaling pathway. In addition, endothelial derived NO may reduce vascular inflammation by attenuating or inhibiting leukocyte adhesion and subendothelial transmigration as well as decreasing platelet activation via cGMP mediated pathways. Taken together, studying the endothelium provides an exceptional opportunity to advance our understanding of the potentially important interrelationship between emotions and the vasculature. Premised on the identification of physiological and biochemical correlates, the former was demonstrated after intracoronary administration of acetylcholine yielded paradoxical endothelial vasoconstriction in response to mental stress exercises. More recently, the brachial artery reactivity test (BART) has permitted endothelial function to be assessed in a non-invasive manner. In addition to traditional CV risk factors, exposure to negative emotions including mental stress and depression have been associated with reduced endothelial vasoreactivity as measured by BART. Whether mirthful laughter has the opposite effect garnered consideration following the discovery that mu3 opiate receptors were expressed in the vascular endothelium. Because mirthful laughter induces the release of beta-endorphins which in turn have high affinity for mu3 opiate receptors, we hypothesize that such positive emotions lead to the direct release of NO and associated biological consequences. Indeed, our studies have demonstrated opposing effects on endothelial vasoreactivity between those previously established (e.g., mental stress induced by negative visual and/or auditory stimuli) and those induced after mirthful laughter, thereby providing a potential mechanistic link between positive emotions and beneficial effects on the vasculature. This article reviews the relevant physiology and comments on the potentially wider clinical implications in the integration of this process to improve vascular health.
Article Published Date : May 26, 2009
Abstract Title:
Viewing a humorous film decreases IgE production by seminal B cells from patients with atopic eczema.
Abstract Source:
J Psychosom Res. 2009 Feb;66(2):173-5. Epub 2008 Nov 22. PMID: 19154860
Abstract Author(s):
Hajime Kimata
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: Sperms induced IgE production by seminal B cells from patients with atopic eczema via interaction of B cells with galectin-3 on sperms. We studied the effect of viewing a humorous film on IgE production by seminal B cells cultured with sperms. METHODS: Twenty-four male patients with atopic eczema viewed a humorous film (Modern Times, featuring Charlie Chaplin). Just before and immediately after viewing, semen was collected, and seminal B cells and sperms were purified. Seminal B cells were cultured with sperms and IgE production was measured, while expression of galectin-3 on sperms was assessed. RESULTS: After viewing the humorous film, IgE production by B cells cultured with sperms was significantly decreased. Moreover, expression of galectin-3 on sperms was reduced. CONCLUSION: Viewing a humorous film reduced galectin-3 expression on sperms, which in turn decreased IgE production by seminal B cells cultured with sperms. These results indicate that viewing a humorous film may be helpful for the study and treatment of local IgE production and allergy in the reproductive tract.
Article Published Date : Feb 01, 2009
Abstract Title:
[Evaluation of the effect of hospital clown's performance about anxiety in children subjected to surgical intervention].
Abstract Source:
Cir Pediatr. 2008 Oct;21(4):195-8. PMID: 18998367
Abstract Author(s):
M A Gutiérrez Cantó, J M Ortigosa Quiles, O Girón Vallejo, R Ruiz Pruneda, J Sánchez Morote, M J Guirao Piñera, G Zambudio Carmona, M J Astillero Fuentes, I Castaño Collado, Cárceles Barón
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: To be hospitalized is a highly distressing event for children. At present, a resort used in Spain and other countries to reduce children's anxiety in the health context are hospital's clown. We studied the effect of the hospital's clowns about the anxiety in children that going to be operated. METHODS: We recruited 60 children aged 6 to 10 years scheduled to undergo elective surgery. 30 children would have clowns before the surgery (case group) and 30 would not have them (control group). In the case group, two clowns performed for children. We measured the anxiety with several scales (STAIC, CCPH, faces scale), after the performance and until 7 days after the surgery. RESULTS: The outcomes show both groups a tendency to increase anxiety but the children of the case group showed less increase at the anxiety's score. In the control group is showed that the children are more alterated at seven days from the discharge. CONCLUSIONS: Children that receive the clown's care, have tendency to be less distressing and with less fear that another ones, measurement by STAIC and faces scale, and these results are maintained seven days after the discharge.
Article Published Date : Oct 01, 2008
Abstract Title:
Short-term improvement of erectile dysfunction by viewing humorous films in patients with atopic dermatitis.
Abstract Source:
J Sex Med. 2008 Sep;5(9):2107-10. Epub 2008 Feb 4. PMID: 18266651
Abstract Author(s):
Hajime Kimata
Abstract:
INTRODUCTION: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by eczema, pruritus and cutaneous hyperreactivity to allergic triggers. We and others have reported that psychogenic stress aggravates these symptoms, while viewing humorous films alleviates them. We have also found that many AD patients suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED). ED exhibits multifactorial etiologies, including psychogenic stress and reduction of serum testosterone levels. AIMS: This study assessed the effects of viewing humorous films on ED in patients with AD. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The effects of viewing humorous films on International Index Erectile Function (IIEF) domain (erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, overall satisfaction) were studied. METHODS: Subjects comprised 36 AD patients with ED and their healthy wives. Randomly assigned 18 patients and their healthy wives first viewed humorous films on three consecutive days (Days 1-3). After 2 weeks, they viewed control nonhumorous weather information films on three consecutive days (Days 1-3). Alternatively, other 18 patients and their wives first viewed control films on three consecutive days, and after 2 weeks they viewed humorous films on three consecutive days. Severity of ED and serum testosterone and estradiol levels were assessed 1 day before viewing (Day -1) and 1-4 days after viewing (Days 4-7). RESULTS: Viewing humorous films significantly improved the IIEF domain in association with increased serum testosterone levels and decreased serum estradiol levels on Day 4, while viewing control films failed to do so. However, this effect was short-term. After 4 days of viewing (Day 7), no improvement in ED or modulation of serum sex hormone levels was observed. CONCLUSIONS: Viewing humorous films improved ED in AD patients in association with increased serum testosterone levels and decreased serum estradiol levels. These results may be useful for the study and treatment of ED.
Article Published Date : Sep 01, 2008
Abstract Title:
Impact of laughter on air trapping in severe chronic obstructive lung disease.
Abstract Source:
Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis. 2008;3(1):185-92. PMID: 18488442
Abstract Author(s):
Martin H Brutsche, Paul Grossman, Rebekka E Müller, Jan Wiegand, Pello, Florent Baty, Willibald Ruch
Abstract:
Static and dynamic hyperinflation is an important factor of exertional dyspnea in patients with severe COPD. This proof-of-concept intervention trial sought to study whether laughter can reduce hyperinflation through repetitive expiratory efforts in patients with severe COPD. For small groups of patients with severe COPD (n = 19) and healthy controls (n = 10) Pello the clown performed a humor intervention triggering regular laughter. Plethysmography was done before and up to 24 hours after intervention. Laughing and smiling were quantified with video-analysis. Real-time breathing pattern was assessed with the LifeShirt, and the psychological impact of the intervention was monitored with self-administered questionnaires. The intervention led to a reduction of TLC in COPD (p = 0.04), but not in controls (p = 0.9). TLC reduction was due to a decline of the residual volume. Four (22 [CI 95% 7 to 46] %) patients were > or = 10% responders. The frequency of smiling and TLC at baseline were independent predictors of TLC response. The humor intervention improved cheerfulness, but not seriousness nor bad mood. In conclusion, smiling induced by a humor intervention was able to reduce hyperinflation in patients with severe COPD. A smiling-derived breathing technique might complement pursed-lips breathing in patients with symptomatic obstruction.
Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2008
Abstract Title:
Laughter up-regulates the genes related to NK cell activity in diabetes.
Abstract Source:
Biomed Res. 2007 Dec;28(6):281-5. PMID: 18202517
Abstract Author(s):
Takashi Hayashi, Satoru Tsujii, Tadao Iburi, Tamiko Tamanaha, Keiko Yamagami, Rieko Ishibashi, Miyo Hori, Shigeko Sakamoto, Hitoshi Ishii, Kazuo Murakami
Abstract:
To elucidate the sustainable effects of laughter on gene expression, we recruited type 2 diabetic patients who were in-patient for receiving self-management education and examined time-dependent regulation for gene expression by laughter. Two-day experiment was performed. On one day, the patients watched comic video and laughed together with hospital staffs. On the other day, they participated in an inpatient diabetes educational program. Blood samples were collected before and 1.5, 4 h after watching comic video or spending lecture time, and changes in gene expression were comprehensively analyzed by microarray technique. Of the 41,000 genes analyzed, the laughter relatively up-regulated 39 genes, among which, 27 genes were relatively increased in the expression for all the observation period after watching comic video. By functional classification of these genes, 14 genes were found to be related to natural killer cell activity. No genes were included that are directly involved in blood glucose regulation, though successive suppression of postprandial blood glucose levels was observed. These results suggest that the laughter influences the expression of many genes classified into immune responses, and may contribute to amelioration of postprandial blood glucose elevation through a modulation of NK cell activity caused by up-regulation of relating genes.
Article Published Date : Dec 01, 2007
Abstract Title:
Viewing humorous film improves nighttime wakening in children with atopic dermatitis.
Abstract Source:
Indian Pediatr. 2007 Apr;44(4):281-5. PMID: 17468523
Abstract Author(s):
Hajime Kimata
Abstract:
INTRODUCTION: Patients with atopic dermatitis suffered from night-time wakening, but the exact mechanism of it was not known. Ghrelin was involved in growth hormone secretion, regulation of appetite, anxiety,night-time wakening and stress. METHODS: Thus salivary ghreli levels during the night were measured in 40 healthy children or 40 patients with atopic dermatitis with night-time wakening. Salivary ghrelin levels at 02:00 h were markedly elevated in patients with atopic dermatitis compared to those in healthy children. RESULTS: Neither viewing control non-humorous film nor viewing humorous film had any effect on healthy children. In contrast, viewing humorous film improved night-time wakening and reduced elevation of salivary ghrelin levels in patients with atopic dermatitis, while viewing control film failed to do so. CONCLUSION: Viewing humorous film may be useful in the treatment of night-time wakening in patients with atopic dermatitis.
Article Published Date : Apr 01, 2007
Abstract Title:
The effect of humorous movies on inpatients with chronic schizophrenia.
Abstract Source:
J Nerv Ment Dis. 2006 Nov;194(11):880-3. PMID: 17102716
Abstract Author(s):
Marc Gelkopf, Bruria Gonen, Rena Kurs, Yuval Melamed, Avi Bleich
Abstract:
We assessed the impact of humorous movies on psychopathology, anxiety, depression, anger, social functioning, insight, and therapeutic alliance in schizophrenia inpatients. Twenty-nine psychiatric inpatients in open wards participated in the study. The study group viewed humorous and the control group viewed neutral movies daily for 3 months. Participants were assessed before and after viewing movies with the Positive and Negative Symptom Scale, Calgary Depression Scale, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, the State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory-2, the Multinomah Community Ability Scale, the Insight and Treatment Attitude Questionnaire, and the Working Alliance Inventory. Reduced levels of psychopathology, anger, anxiety, and depression symptoms and an improvement in social competence were revealed in the study group. No changes were observed in treatment insight or working alliance. Video films are a practical and cost-efficient means of entertainment that seem to have a positive effect on patient morale, mood, and mental status.
Article Published Date : Nov 01, 2006
Abstract Title:
Laughter therapy modulates the parameters of renin-angiotensin system in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Abstract Source:
Int J Mol Med. 2005 Dec;16(6):1077-81. PMID: 16273289
Abstract Author(s):
Uddin Mohammad Nasir, Shizuko Iwanaga, A H M Nurun Nabi, Osamu Urayama, Keiko Hayashi, Takashi Hayashi, Koichi Kawai, Afroza Sultana, Kazuo Murakami, Fumiaki Suzuki
Abstract:
The effect of laughter therapy on the plasma levels of renin, angiotensinogen, and prorenin was investigated in patients with type 2 diabetes. In the diabetic patients, the mean plasma renin concentrations were 24.6+/-12.1 ng/ml/h in the first observation (at the beginning of laughter therapy), 8.2+/-3.4 ng/ml/h in the second observation (three months after the beginning of laughter therapy) and 7.7+/-1.7 ng/ml/h in the third observation (six months after the beginning of laughter therapy). The mean plasma angiotensinogen concentrations in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd observations were 0.19+/-0.08, 0.47+/-0.12, 0.42+/-0.14 microg/ml, respectively. The mean plasma prorenin concentrations in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd observations during the laughter therapy were 195.1+/-66.2, 193.4+/-88.2 and 170.7+/-52.5 pg/ml, respectively. Plasma renin concentrations were significantly decreased (p<0.05) by the therapy. Subnormal concentrations of plasma angiotensinogen were found in the 1st observation and increased significantly (p<0.05) to the normal range after the therapy. Plasma prorenin concentration only slightly changed during the laughter therapy. Other biochemical parameters remained unchanged during the laughter therapy. These results indicated that a long-term laughter therapy changed the plasma components of renin-angiotensin system in patients with diabetes. Thus, laughter therapy can be used as non-pharmacological treatment for the prevention of diabetic microvascular complications.
Article Published Date : Dec 01, 2005
Abstract Title:
The evolution and functions of laughter and humor: a synthetic approach.
Abstract Source:
Q Rev Biol. 2005 Dec;80(4):395-430. PMID: 16519138
Abstract Author(s):
Matthew Gervais, David Sloan Wilson
Article Affiliation:
Program of Psychobiology, Binghamton University, Binghamton, New York 13902, USA. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Abstract:
A number of recent hypotheses have attempted to explain the ultimate evolutionary origins of laughter and humor. However most of these have lacked breadth in their evolutionary frameworks while neglecting the empirical existence of two distinct types of laughter--Duchenne and non-Duchenne--and the implications of this distinction for the evolution of laughter as a signal. Most of these hypotheses have also been proposed in relative isolation of each other and remain disjointed from the relevant empirical literature. Here we attempt to remedy these shortcomings through a synthesis of previous laughter and humor research followed by (i) a reevaluation of this research in light of theory and data from several relevant disciplines, and (ii) the proposal of a synthetic evolutionary framework that takes into account phylogeny and history as well as proximate mechanisms and adaptive significance. We consider laughter to have been a preadaptation that was gradually elaborated and co-opted through both biological and cultural evolution. We hypothesize that Duchenne laughter became fully ritualized in early hominids between 4 and 2 mya as a medium for playful emotional contagion. This mechanism would have coupled the emotions of small hominid groups and promoted resource-building social play during the fleeting periods of safety and satiation that characterized early bipedal life. We further postulate that a generalized class of nonserious social incongruity would have been a reliable indicator of such safe times and thereby came to be a potent distal elicitor of laughter and playful emotion. This class of stimuli had its origins in primate social play and was the foundation for formal human humor. Within this framework, Duchenne laughter and protohumor were well established in the hominid biobehavioral repertoire when more cognitively sophisticated traits evolved in the hominid line between 2 mya and the present. The prior existence of laughter and humor allowed them to be co-opted for numerous novel functions, and it is from this process that non-Duchenne laughter and the "dark side" of laughter emerged. This perspective organizes the diversified forms and functions that characterize laughter and humor today and clarifies when and how laughter and humor evolved during the course of human evolution.
Article Published Date : Dec 01, 2005
Abstract Title:
Effect of viewing a humorous vs. nonhumorous film on bronchial responsiveness in patients with bronchial asthma.
Abstract Source:
Physiol Behav. 2004 Jun;81(4):681-4. PMID: 15178163
Abstract Author(s):
Hajime Kimata
Abstract:
The effect of viewing a humorous film on bronchial responsiveness to methacholine [methacholine study: 20 healthy participants and 20 patients with house dust mite (HDM)-allergic bronchial asthma (BA)] or to epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg; EGCg study: 15 normal participants and 15 EGCg-allergic BA patients) was studied. At baseline, bronchial challenge test to methacholine (20 normal participants and 20 HDM-allergic BA patients) or EGCg (15 normal participants and 15 EGCg-allergic BA patients) were performed. After 2 weeks, patients and healthy participants were randomly assigned to watch a humorous or a nonhumorous film. Two weeks later, the alternate film was watched. Immediately after viewing, bronchial challenge test to methacholine or ECGg to each study group were performed. Viewing a humorous film significantly reduced bronchial responsiveness to methacholine or EGCg, while viewing a nonhumorous film failed to do so in BA patients without affecting bronchial responsiveness to methacholine or EGCg in healthy participants. These findings indicate that viewing a humorous film may be useful in the treatment and study of BA.
Article Published Date : Jun 01, 2004
Abstract Title:
Modulation of neuroimmune parameters during the eustress of humor-associated mirthful laughter.
Abstract Source:
Altern Ther Health Med. 2001 Mar;7(2):62-72, 74-6. PMID: 11253418
Abstract Author(s):
L S Berk, D L Felten, S A Tan, B B Bittman, J Westengard
Abstract:
CONTEXT: Humor therapy and the related mirthful laughter are suggested to have preventive and healing effects. Although these effects may be mediated by neuroendocrine/neuroimmune modulation, specific neuroimmune parameters have not been fully investigated. OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy of mirthful laughter to modulate neuroimmune parameters in normal subjects. DESIGN: A series of 5 separate studies based on a multivariate repeated measures design, with post hoc simple contrast analysis. SETTING: The schools of medicine and public health at Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, Calif. SUBJECTS: 52 healthy men. INTERVENTION: Viewing of a humor video for 1 hour. Blood samples were taken 10 minutes before, 30 minutes into, and 30 minutes and 12 hours after the intervention. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Natural killer cell activity; plasma immunoglobulins; functional phenotypic markers for leukocytes including activated T cells, nonactivated T cells, B cells, natural killer cells, T cells with helper and suppressor markers, and assessment of plasma volume and compartmental shifts; plasma cytokine--interferon-gamma; and total leukocytes with subpopulations of lymphocytes, granulocytes, and monocytes. RESULTS: Increases were found in natural killer cell activity (P < .01); immunoglobulins G (P < .02), A (P < .01), and M (P < .09), with several immunoglobulin effects lasting 12 hours into recovery from initiation of the humor intervention; functional phenotypic markers for leukocyte subsets such as activated T cells (P < .01), active cytotoxic T cells (P < .01), natural killer cells (P = .09), B cells (P < .01), helper T cells (P < .02), uncommitted T cells with helper and suppressor markers (P < .02), helper/suppressor ratio (P = .10) with several leukocyte subset increase effects lasting 12 hours after the humor experience; the cytokine interferon-gamma (P = .02), with increases lasting 12 hours; total leukocytes (P < .05), with specific subpopulation lymphocytes during the intervention (P < .01) and 90 minutes into recovery (P < .05); and granulocytes during the intervention (P < .05) and 90 minutes following the intervention (P < .01). CONCLUSION: Modulation of neuroimmune parameters during and following the humor-associated eustress of laughter may provide beneficial health effects for wellness and a complementary adjunct to whole-person integrative medicine therapies.
Article Published Date : Mar 01, 2001
Abstract Title:
Neuroevolutionary sources of laughter and social joy: modeling primal human laughter in laboratory rats.
Abstract Source:
N Z Med J. 1982 Nov 24;95(720):803-6. PMID: 17363075
Abstract Author(s):
Jaak Panksepp
Article Affiliation:
Department of VCAPP, College of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 646520, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Abstract:
Rats make abundant 50 kHz ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) when they play and exhibit other positive social interactions. This response can be dramatically increased by tickling animals, especially when directed toward bodily areas toward which animals direct their own play solicitations (e.g., nape of the neck). The analysis of this system indicates that the response largely occurs in positive, playful social situations, and may index willingness for social engagement, similar to human infantile laughter, which may mature into productive adult socio-sexual behaviors. There are now enough formal similarities between rat 50 kHz USVs and human laughter, to realistically hypothesize that they are neurally and functionally homologous at the subcortical level of brain organization. To help contrast this behavior with human laughter, the available evidence concerning neural organization of human laughter is summarized from brain imaging and neuropsychological perspectives. Thus, a study of 50 kHz USVs in rats may offer an animal model for studying some of the fundamental properties of laughter circuitry in humans, and the brain mechanisms that facilitate positive social engagement, in the mammalian brain. It is proposed that further study of this phenomenon may provide a theoretical as well as empirical handle on the sources of social joy within the mammalian brain.
Article Published Date : Nov 24, 1982
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