Investigating the association between the lunar cycle and sleep, physiological, cognitive, and physical performance in children with Down syndrome

• DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_1733_23
• Publication Date: 2024-03-26T18:00:11Z
• Authors: Zohra Lammouchi; Noomen Guelmami; Salma Abedelmalek; Mouna Saidane; Hatem Ghouili; Mahmoud Rebhi; Mohamed Saifedine...; Mohamed Ben Aissa; Hafsi Bedhioufi; Helmi Ben Saad; Ismail Dergaa
• Keywords: Association (psychology); Sleep

BACKGROUND: Children with Down syndrome (DS) offer a compelling context within the fieldof human biology for examining potential lunar influences. While exact mechanisms governing effects are still under investigation, growing body of scientific inquiry suggests possible connections between phases and physiological, physical, cognitive parameters. This investigation holds promise uncovering intricate interplay cycles (LCs) unique children DS. study investigated influence LC on parameters in DS, focusing sleep patterns, physical performance, abilities. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventeen DS participated this study. Sleep data, performance metrics, test results were collected throughout LC, including new moon (NM), first quarter, full (FM), third quarter. Statistical analyses conducted to assess differences these across phases. RESULTS: Significant observed reduced total time ( P < 0.01) efficiency 0.001) during FM phase. Heart rates (HRs) before after exercise also displayed pronounced changes LC. Additionally, reaction (RT) exhibited significant difference However, squat jump (SJ), sprint, 6-minute walk distance (6MWD), did not show variations. CONCLUSION: that may have moderating effect HR, These findings practical implications caregivers educators highlight importance considering lunar-associated variations planning schedules interventions