Effects of Combined Exercise and Peripheral Magnetic Stimulation on Biopsychosocial Functional Impairments in Older Adults With Schizophrenia
Phase: NA
Conditions: Schizophrenia Patients
Sponsor: Yuntong Zhang

Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences 
Shanghai Yangpu District Mental Health Center 
Institute of Mental Health 
Scientific Research Project Plan 
(2023 Edition) 
Project Code: YJYZD202406 
Project Title: Effects of Combined Exercise and Peripheral 
Magnetic Stimulation on Biopsychosocial Functional Impairments 
in Older Adults with Schizophrenia 
Project Duration: May 2024 – April 2026 
Institutions: Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences; 
Shanghai Yangpu District Mental Health Center 
Address: No. 279, Zhouzhu Highway, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 
Tel: +86 13196381987 Postal Code: 201318 
Mobile: +86-18521777440 Email: jia.han@canberra.edu.au Date of 
Completion: May 27th, 2025 
Summary 
Research Topic: Effects of Exercise and Peripheral Magnetic Stimulation on Biopsychosocial 
Functional Impairments in Patients with Late-Onset Schizophrenia (LOS) 
Category: Applied Research 
Discipline: Health Care Medicine (Code: 3201410) 
Related Disciplines: Gerontology (3201430), Sports Medicine (3201420), Physical Therapy 
(32017) 
Funding Applied (10,000 CNY): 10 
Abstract 
This study aims to investigate the clinical efficacy and potential mechanisms of exercise and 
Peripheral Magnetic Stimulation (PMS) therapy in older adults with schizophrenia. The 
project consists of two trials: (1) evaluation of the immediate effects of PMS on EEG activity 
in older adults with schizophrenia (n=40; PMS group vs. sham group, 20 each), and (2) 
comparison of PMS+exercise vs. exercise-only on functional gains (n=40, 20 each) over 8 
weeks. We expect to provide a new, effective treatment option and deepen understanding of 
PMS mechanisms, producing 1–2 core Chinese journal articles and 1–2 SCI papers. 

1. Clinical Trial Integrity Statement 
The study will strictly comply with international ethical standards (e.g., Declaration of 
Helsinki), relevant regulations, and ethics committee requirements. All participants will 
voluntarily join after signing informed consent, and their privacy and rights will be 
protected. The research team pledges fairness in design, execution, and data analysis; 
randomization will follow the pre-set scheme, with blinding applied where appropriate. 
Data will be collected, stored, and analyzed per SOPs by independent statisticians, ensuring 
accuracy, transparency, and reliability. All funding sources and conflicts of interest will be 
disclosed. The study will be halted if participant safety is at risk, and results will be reported 
objectively regardless of outcome. 
2. Research Plan & Objectives 
This project targets older adults (≥60) diagnosed with schizophrenia under ICD-10 or 
DSM5, clinically stable, and free from major neurological comorbidities. 
Trial 1: PMS vs. sham PMS (no active stimulation) to assess immediate EEG effects. Trial 
2: PMS+exercise vs. exercise-only over 8 weeks to compare lower-limb function, muscle 
strength, mass, and cognition. 
Primary Outcomes 
- 6-minute walk test (6MWT) 
- Sit-to-stand test (STS) 
- MRI-based muscle fat ratio 
- MoCA cognitive assessment 
- SANS negative symptom scale 
- PANSS total and subscales 
- EEG pre-post intervention changes 
3. Technical Approach 
Simple randomization using R sample() function, allocation concealment by third party, and 
blinding applied where possible. Data analysis will include intention-to-treat and 
perprotocol as appropriate. 
4. Innovation Points 
- First application of PMS in older schizophrenia patients 
- Integration of PMS with exercise therapy tailored to physiological/psychological needs 
- Focus on lower-limb function, muscle content, creatine kinase, and depressive symptoms 
- EEG immediate effect assessment for deeper neurofunctional insights 

5. Data Management & Safety 
All data handled per SOPs, with restricted access, double-check entry, and encryption. 
Adverse events will be monitored, classified, and reported within 24 hours to the ethics 
board. Participants with serious adverse reactions will be withdrawn and given necessary 
medical care. 
6. Post-Trial Care 
Patients with persistent symptoms will receive follow-up treatment plans, referrals, and 
ongoing monitoring. Educational and psychological support will be provided as needed. 
7. Expected Outcomes & Benefits 
Social: Improved quality of life, reduced burden on families and society, enhanced public 
awareness, and contribution to psychiatric treatment research. 
Economic: Reduced healthcare utilization, improved productivity and participation, growth 
of related industries, and attraction of talent and investment. 
Application Prospects: Medical institutions, pharmaceutical companies, government health 
agencies, academic institutions, insurance providers.