bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cognition and behavior in adults with neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Bos-Roubos Anja , van Leeuwen Hanneke , Wingbermühle Ellen , van den Bosch Louisa , Ossewaarde Lindsey , Taal Walter , de Graaff Laura , Egger Jos
Published: November 2024

Background

Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) is a congenital neurocutaneous disorder. As NF1 is incurable and presents with a wide range of physical and mental symptoms, knowledge of neurocognitive and behavioral functioning can be an important aid in understanding their functional impact, and developing treatment options. To date, studies in children with NF1 have shown dysfunction in several domains, but much less is known about cognition and behavior in adults with NF1. The present study describes the neuropsychological phenotype of adults with NF1 based on comprehensive clinical examination of cognition and behavior across multiple functions.

Methods

Participants were 62 adults with NF1 (mean age 38.2 years; SD 13.4). All underwent individual clinical neuropsychological assessment at the Center of Excellence for Neuropsychiatry as part of regular care. Scores on all individual measures were standardized into z-scores based on the corresponding normative group data. The proportions of mean z-scores in the NF1 study group were calculated according to cut-off points (±1 to ±1.5 SD; > ±1.5 SD) and compared to the expected proportions in the normal population distribution. Cognition and behavior was tested against population means constructed by bootstrapping.

Results

Performance on the cognitive measures oral reading speed, visuospatial copying, visuospatial immediate recall, visual learning/imprinting, and visual memory immediate recall in the NF1 group were lower than normative means. The behavioral measures indicated higher levels of dysfunction, including psychopathology. The proportions of the NF1 study group with lower cognitive performance and higher levels of behavioral dysfunction were larger than in the normal population distributions. In addition, domain-level results revealed that intelligence, attention/speed, memory, and social cognition reflect cognitive dysfunction. Moreover, levels of emotion perception problems, experienced executive dysfunction, internalizing psychopathology (e.g., anxiety, depression), and severe fatigue were significantly higher compared to the simulated population sample. The mean level of emotion regulation (coping strategies) did not differ significantly from the population.

Conclusion

Identified cognitive and behavioral dysfunction in multiple domains indicates high vulnerability in adults with NF1 and underscores the importance of individualized neuropsychological assessment and treatment. Further research on the relationships between cognition and behavior (including fatigue) in NF1 is warranted.
Ephaptic conduction in tonic–clonic seizures
Authors: Rabinovitch Avinoam , Rabinovitch Revital , Smolik Ella , Biton Yaacov , Braunstein Doron
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Electroencephalograms (EEGs) or multi-unit activities (MUAs) of tonic–clonic seizures typically exhibit a distinct structure. After a preliminary phase (DC shift, spikes), the tonic phase is characterized by synchronized activity of numerous neurons, followed by the clonic phase, marked by a periodic sequence of spikes. However, the mechanisms underlying the transition from tonic to clonic phases remain poorly understood.

Methods

We employ a simple two-dimensional cellular automaton model to simulate seizure activity, specifically focusing on replicating the tonic–clonic transition. This model effectively illustrates the physical processes during the ictal phase and, more importantly, differentiates the roles of neurons’ activity, identifying their origin as either synaptic or ephaptic.

Results

Our model reveals an intriguing interaction between the synaptic and ephaptic modes of action potential wave conduction. By replicating the EEG and multi-unit activity (MUA) structure of a tonic–clonic seizure and comparing it with real MUA data, we validate the model’s underlying assumption: the transition from tonic to clonic phases is driven by a shift in dominance from synaptic to ephaptic conduction. During synaptic-mode control, neural conduction occurs through synaptic transmission involving chemical substances, while in the ephaptic mode, information transfer occurs through direct Ohmic conduction.

Significance

Gaining a deeper understanding of the neuronal electrical conduction transitions during tonic–clonic seizures is crucial for improving the treatment of this debilitating condition.
Chronic post-dural puncture headache–a serious and underrated complication following lumbar puncture: a cohort study
Authors: Kraus Luisa Mona , Häni Levin , El Rahal Amir , Vasilikos Ioannis , Fariña Nuñez Mateo Tomas , Volz Florian , Urbach Horst , Lützen Niklas , Ulrich Christian , Beck Jürgen , Fung Christian
Published: November 2024

Background

Post-dural puncture headache (PDPH) is still mostly regarded a minor complication after lumbar puncture. In the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD)-3 headaches lasting longer than 14 days or persisting after epidural blood patch (EBP) are not even considered. We illustrate that there may be many patients with persisting headaches and a large disease burden.

Methods

In a retrospective, single center analysis from 04/2018 to 03/2022 we assessed patients with a dural puncture and orthostatic headache of >14 days duration, resistant to one or more EBPs. Socioeconomic factors and individual patient history were assessed by a specifically designed questionnaire.

Results

We included 30 patients with a mean age of 36.4 (±10.6) years. The median duration of acute inpatient care was 31 (Interquartile ratio (IQR) = 32) days and of sick leave 381 (IQR = 666.3) days. Patients consulted a median of 5 (IQR = 6.5) different physicians/ institutions due to chronic post-dural puncture headache (cPDPH). All patients reported major negative impact of cPDPH on their social and work life.

Conclusion

Despite long hospitalizations and a profound impairment of social and work lives cPDPH was neglected and underrated in all patients. We conclude that cPDPH needs to be considered and might be an underreported, severe condition which requires further prospective studies.
The population based cognitive testing in subjects with SARS-CoV-2 (POPCOV2) study: longitudinal investigation of remote cognitive and fatigue screening in PCR-positive cases and negative controls
Authors: von Etzdorf Alina , Harzen Maja , Heinrichs Hannah , Seifert Henning , Groiß Stefan J. , Balloff Carolin , Feldt Torsten , Jensen Björn-Erik Ole , Lüdde Tom , Bernhard Michael , Schnitzler Alfons , Goebels Klaus , Kraus Jörg , Meuth Sven G. , Elben Saskia , Albrecht Philipp
Published: November 2024

Background

The majority of people infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) only show mild respiratory symptoms. However, some patients with SARS-CoV-2 display neurological symptoms. Data on the exact prevalence and course of cognitive symptoms are often limited to patient reported outcomes or studies recruited at specialized centers.

Methods

For this prospective, non-interventional population based POPCOV2 study, 156 subjects who performed SARS-CoV-2 testing in the Düsseldorf metropolitan area at public test centers between December 2020 and February 2022 were recruited by handouts. SARS-CoV-2-positive and negatively tested subjects were included within the first seven days after the PCR test results. Cognitive testing was performed at baseline during home quarantine and after 4–6 as well as 12–14 weeks of follow-up. Individuals were examined remotely by videocalls using the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) in addition to the Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI) and the Beck Depression Inventory-Fast Screen (BDI-FS).

Results

At baseline, the SARS-CoV-2-positive group presented with higher levels of fatigue in the BFI. In both the SARS-CoV-2-positive and SARS-CoV-2-negative groups, some subjects presented attention and memory deficits, defined as a z-score < −1,65 on the SDMT or < 26 points on the MoCA (SDMT: 22.9% in the positive and 8.8% in the negative group, p = 0.024; MoCA: 35.6% in the positive and 27.3% in the negative group, p = 0.313). MoCA and SDMT improved over time in both groups. For MoCA scores, a significant difference between the two groups was only seen at the first follow-up. SDMT z-scores did not differ at any time between the groups.

Conclusion

These results support previous evidence that mild SARS-CoV-2 infections are associated with increased fatigue. However, we found relevant rates of cognitive impairment not only in the infected but also in the control group. This underlines the importance of including a control group in such investigations.
Advances in non-invasive brain stimulation: enhancing sports performance function and insights into exercise science
Authors: Qi Shuo , Yu Jinglun , Li Li , Dong Chen , Ji Zhe , Cao Lei , Wei Zhen , Liang Zhiqiang
Published: November 2024

The cerebral cortex, as the pinnacle of human complexity, poses formidable challenges to contemporary neuroscience. Recent advancements in non-invasive brain stimulation have been pivotal in enhancing human locomotor functions, a burgeoning area of interest in exercise science. Techniques such as transcranial direct current stimulation, transcranial alternating current stimulation, transcranial random noise stimulation, and transcranial magnetic stimulation are widely recognized for their neuromodulator capabilities. Despite their broad applications, these methods are not without limitations, notably in spatial and temporal resolution and their inability to target deep brain structures effectively. The advent of innovative non-invasive brain stimulation modalities, including transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation and temporal interference stimulation technology, heralds a new era in neuromodulation. These approaches offer superior spatial and temporal precision, promising to elevate athletic performance, accelerate sport science research, and enhance recovery from sports-related injuries and neurological conditions. This comprehensive review delves into the principles, applications, and future prospects of non-invasive brain stimulation in the realm of exercise science. By elucidating the mechanisms of action and potential benefits, this study aims to arm researchers with the tools necessary to modulate targeted brain regions, thereby deepening our understanding of the intricate interplay between brain function and human behavior.
Advances in brain and religion studies: a review and synthesis of recent representative studies
Authors: McNamara Patrick , Grafman Jordan
Published: November 2024

We review and synthesize recent religion and brain studies and find that at a broad network neuroscience level, religious/spiritual experiences (RSEs) appear to depend crucially upon interactions between the default mode network (DMN), the frontoparietal network (FPN), and the salience network (SN). We see this general result as broadly consistent with Menon’s et al. “Triple Network or Tripartite Model” (TPM) of neuropsychiatric function/dysfunction. A TPM cycling model is here offered to account for details of neural bases of an array of RSE phenomena including ecstatic seizures, neuroimaging of religious participants, psychedelically induced mystical states and perceptions of supernatural agents. To adequately account for SA perceptions, however, recent evidence suggests that REM sleep and dreaming mechanisms likely play a role. Future research should examine neurodevelopmental mechanisms of acquired SA perceptions as well as societal-level effects such as brain mediated religious beliefs of in-group cohesion and out-group hostility.
Does exercise enhance the benefits of nutritional support on the biochemical markers of nutrition, anthropometry, and body composition in hemodialysis patients? A systematic review
Authors: Kamalzadeh Yazdi Raheleh , Radkhah Nima , Ostadrahimi Alireza
Published: November 2024

Background

Exercise and nutritional support are effective strategies in hemodialysis patients who often face health issues like protein-energy wasting (PEW). Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate whether combining exercise with nutritional support offers additional benefits for anthropometry, body composition, and biochemical markers of nutrition in hemodialysis patients.

Methods

This systematic review searched databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, until 14 February 2024 to identify relevant randomized controlled trials. Following screening and data extraction, quality assessment was conducted using the revised Cochrane Risk of Bias tool (ROB2). The study was reported following PRISMA guidelines.

Results

Six studies comprising 199 male and female hemodialysis patients were included. These studies did not report any significant differences in anthropometry, body composition, and nutritional status between individuals who received an exercise program along with nutritional support and those who received only nutritional support.

Conclusion

This systematic review suggests that the combination of exercise with nutritional support may not improve the positive effects of nutritional support on anthropometry, body composition, and nutritional status in hemodialysis patients. However, due to the low quality and significant heterogeneity among the existing studies, further research is required to draw definitive conclusions.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO (www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero; registration no: CRD42024542613).
Commissioning a clinical proton pencil beam scanning beamline for pre-clinical ultra-high dose rate irradiations on a cyclotron-based system
Authors: Saini Jatinder , Erickson Danielle P. Johnson , Vander Stappen François , Ruth Matt , Cui Sunan , Gorman Vanessa , Rossomme Séverine , Cao Ning , Ford Eric C. , Meyer Juergen , Bloch Charles , Wong Tony , Grassberger Clemens , Rengan Ramesh , Zeng Jing , Schwarz Marco
Published: November 2024

Background

This manuscript describes modifications to a pencil beam scanning (PBS) proton gantry that enables ultra-high dose rates (UHDR) irradiation, including treatment planning and validation.

Methods

Beamline modifications consisted of opening the energy slits and setting the degrader to pass-through mode to maximize the dose rate. A range shifter was inserted upstream from the isocenter to enlarge the spot size and make it rotationally symmetric. We measured the beamline transport efficiency and investigated the variation in output due to the recombination of charge in the dose monitoring chamber. The output calibration was performed through a parallel plate chamber (PPC05), and an intercomparison was performed for various detectors. The pre-clinical field for mice irradiation consisted of different dose levels to deliver uniform doses in transmission mode. The field dose rates were determined through log files while scripting in TPS was used to estimate PBS dose rates. The survival experiments consisted of irradiating the full pelvis of the mice at UHDR and conventional dose rates.

Results

The spot size was constant with beam current and had a sigma of 8.5 mm at the isocenter. The beam output increased by 35% at 720 nA compared to 5.6 nA, primarily due to recombination in the dose-monitoring ion chambers. The Faraday Cup and PPC05 agreed within 2%, while other detectors were within 3% of FC for dose rates <60 Gy/s. The pre-clinical fields’ PBS dose rate is above 45 Gy/sec for all voxels within the target volume. The average and PBS dose rates decrease as field size increases and approaches 40 Gy/s for a field size of 7x7 cm2. All UHDR arms showed better survival than the corresponding conventional dose rate arms.

Conclusions

We successfully modified a clinical system to perform UHDR pre-clinical experiments. As part of our pre-clinical experiments, we observed the FLASH effect concerning mice survival.
Case Report: A rare case of antenatally diagnosed mature adrenal teratoma in an infant: insights and literature review
Authors: Msarweh Amar , Shehadeh Mohammad Hakam , Abualrub Ahmad M. , Malhes Waleed M. , Msarweh Nadeen , Sinokrot Jenan Khaled , Aliwisat Ahmed H.
Published: November 2024

Teratomas are germ cell tumors that arise from the derivatives of the three germ cell layers. They are categorized into subtypes by the extent of maturation, with mature teratomas being the most common subtype. While they can arise in various extragonadal regions, including the retroperitoneum, their occurrence in the retroperitoneal space is extremely rare. It is even more exceptional for these tumors to be located within the adrenal gland. In this report, we describe an 18-day-old female infant who presented with a left suprarenal mass. The mass was detected during prenatal screening via ultrasound at 30 weeks of pregnancy. Evaluation after birth, including a chest and abdomen computed tomography (CT) scan, revealed a large, well-defined left suprarenal mass. The mass was surgically resected and found to measure 9 cm × 7 cm × 5 cm. Histopathological examination confirmed a cystic mature teratoma containing a variety of well-differentiated tissues. The patient has shown excellent progress over the 1-year follow-up, with no evidence of recurrence. Only a few cases of mature adrenal teratoma have been reported, highlighting the importance of this case report.
Use of transpyloric feeds in extremely low birth weight infants at risk of severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia—a single center experience
Authors: Nagarkatti Ahana , Sarkar Shikha , Anuar Amirul , Hussain Naveed
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The incidence of severe BPD (sBPD), defined as needing oxygen or positive pressure at 36 weeks corrected gestational age (CGA), has remained unchanged. These infants are at risk for developing late pulmonary hypertension (LPHN) or needing surgical interventions such as Gastrostomy Tubes (GT) or Tracheostomy Tubes (TT). The finding of pepsin in the lungs of infants who were extremely low birth weight (ELBW) with sBPD has led to the speculation that gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and aspiration could contribute to their lung disease. Micro-aspiration-reducing strategies such as Transpyloric feeds (TpF) have not been well studied.

Objectives

To compare ELBW infants with sBPD managed with or without TpF and determine the difference between the two groups for (i) illness severity, (ii) LPHN, (iii) need for GT, and (iv) TT; the secondary aim was to study the TpF group to (i) evaluate the change in Respiratory Severity Score (RSS) before and after TpF, and (ii) evaluate the time taken to affect the change in RSS.

Methods

In this retrospective study there were 229 ELBW infants with sBPD (78 in the TpF group, 151 in the non-TpF group). SPSS software was used for univariate analyses.

Results

There was no difference in sex or race. TpF group had (i) a lower BW, GA, higher severity of illness (ii) higher incidence of LPHN (p < 0.05), (iii) higher need for GT (p < 0.001) and TT (p < 0.001). In the TpF group, 60 who were on TpF for pulmonary protection from micro aspiration (lung protection group), had significantly improved RSS (p < 0.05), and symptoms within 45 days in 57 out of 60 infants (95%). They improved their respiratory status by 14 days, and 80% of responders could be identified by 21 days after initiation. In the 18 that TpF was started for documented airway protection (airway protection group), there was a higher need for GT or TT.

Conclusions

TpF could play an essential role in the management of ELBW infants with sBPD. Considering the limitations of a single center retrospective study, prospective randomized control trials are needed to confirm these findings.
Interactions of warfarin with COVID-19 vaccine/drugs, monoclonal antibodies, and targeted anticancer agents from real-world data mining
Authors: Gao Yan , Huang Qingsong , Li Jun , He Junsheng , Qian Fang , Yi Juanjuan
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aims to examine the unresolved drug-drug interactions of warfarin using real-world data.

Methods

Electronic medical records from a hospital in Shanghai, China, were used to summarize drug-related problems (DRPs) among inpatients taking warfarin in 2022. Additionally, adverse event data for warfarin from January 2004 to December 2023 were extracted from the U.S. adverse event reporting system to evaluate the bleeding risk associated with the concomitant use of warfarin and COVID-19 Vaccine/drugs, monoclonal antibodies, and targeted anticancer agents.

Results

The electronic clinical records yielded 180 cases, of which 130 cases (72.22%) had 276 DRPs identified. DRP5 (n = 172, 62.32%) was identified as the most common issue, comprising 145 drug interactions and 27 adverse drug reactions (ADRs). The analyses of warfarin ADR records (n = 53,709) from the database revealed that tocilizumab (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR): 3.39 [95% CI: 1.77–7.03]; P < 0.001), ibrutinib (aOR: 2.53 [1.61–4.19]; P < 0.001), and cabozantinib (aOR: 3.34 [1.40–9.85]; P = 0.013) significantly increased the risk of warfarin bleeding. In contrast, nirmatrelvir–ritonavir (aOR: 0.32 [0.14–0.69]; P = 0.004), adalimumab (aOR: 0.72 [0.56–0.93]; P = 0.012), golimumab (aOR: 0.18 [0.05–0.50]; P = 0.002), tofacitinib (aOR: 0.51 [0.29–0.86]; P = 0.013), and dabrafenib (aOR: 0.17 [0.04–0.55]; P = 0.007) significantly reduced the risk of bleeding when combined with warfarin. Remdesivir combined with warfarin was associated with a statistically significant increase in bleeding events (P = 0.047); while the risk was not significant after adjusting for age and sex (aOR: 1.79; P = 0.2). No significant effect was observed with the COVID-19 vaccine (aOR: 0.89; P = 0.8).

Conclusion

Drug-drug interactions contribute to the adverse effects of warfarin. This study provides real-world evidence of newly identified drug interactions with warfarin. It reminds clinicians to monitor INR and adjust warfarin doses accordingly when used in combination with these medications.
Study on the fusion of improved YOLOv8 and depth camera for bunch tomato stem picking point recognition and localization
Authors: Song Guozhu , Wang Jian , Ma Rongting , Shi Yan , Wang Yaqi
Published: November 2024

When harvesting bunch tomatoes, accurately identifying certain fruiting stems proves challenging due to their obstruction by branches and leaves, or their similarity in colour to the branches, main vines, and lateral vines. Additionally, irregularities in the growth pattern of the fruiting pedicels further complicate precise picking point localization, thus impacting harvesting efficiency. Moreover, the fruit stalks being too short or slender poses an obstacle, rendering it impossible for the depth camera to accurately obtain depth information during depth value acquisition. To address these challenges, this paper proposes an enhanced YOLOv8 model integrated with a depth camera for string tomato fruit stalk picking point identification and localization research. Initially, the Fasternet bottleneck in YOLOv8 is replaced with the c2f bottleneck, and the MLCA attention mechanism is added after the backbone network to construct the FastMLCA-YOLOv8 model for fruit stalk recognition. Subsequently, the optimized K-means algorithm, utilizing K-means++ for clustering centre initialization and determining the optimal number of clusters via Silhouette coefficients, is employed to segment the fruit stalk region. Following this, the corrosion operation and Zhang refinement algorithm are used to denoise the segmented fruit stalk region and extract the refined skeletal line, thereby determining the coordinate position of the fruit stalk picking point in the binarized image. Finally, the issue of missing depth values of fruit stalks is addressed by the secondary extraction method to obtain the depth values and 3D coordinate information of the picking points in RGB-D camera coordinates. The experimental results demonstrate that the algorithm accurately identifies and locates the picking points of string tomatoes under complex background conditions, with the identification success rate of the picking points reaching 91.3%. Compared with the YOLOv8 model, the accuracy is improved by 2.8%, and the error of the depth value of the picking points is only ±2.5 mm. This research meets the needs of string tomato picking robots in fruit stalk target detection and provides strong support for the development of string tomato picking technology.
Imagination, ecologized and enacted: driven by the historicity of affordance competition
Authors: Stankozi Caroline
Published: November 2024

Together, ecological psychology and enactivism can explain imagination as being driven by affordance competition. This paper presents synaptic plasticity as a hotspot for the respective historicity. First, (i) affordances are introduced as directly perceptible on the ecological view, and as co-created by an individual on the enactive view. After pointing out their compatibility, (ii) empirical underpinnings of the historicity of affordance competition are summarized and followed by a non-representational interpretation thereof. They are used to explain: (iii) What affords imagining? After discussing both van Dijk and Rietveld’s in 2020 non-representational answer and McClelland’s in 2020 representational one, I propose a more general explanation: a stand-off between competing affordances can be resolved by imagination, driven by affordance competition. Arguably, (iv) the sensorimotor traces of previous interactions (e.g., strengthened synapses) can be repurposed as representations – grounding even representational explanations in an ecologized enactive framework.
Development and initial validation of the implicit internalized sexual orientation stigma affect misattribution procedure
Authors: Hall William J. , Dawes Hayden C. , Hannay Jason W. , Williams Denise Yookong , Frey Joseph J. , Srivastava Ankur , Chapman Mimi V. , Chen Ding-Geng , Wilson Amy Blank , Ramon Magdelene E. , Payne B. Keith
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This article describes the development and initial validation of a measure of implicit internalized stigma among queer people, the Implicit Internalized Sexual Orientation Stigma Affect Misattribution Procedure (Internal-SOS-AMP), a computer-administered sequential priming procedure.

Methods

The creation of the Internal-SOS-AMP involved a mixed-methods approach, including a literature review, expert interviews, stimuli selection and pilot testing, data collection from a large sample, reliability testing, correlational analyses, and confirmatory factor analysis. Psychometric testing was conducted with a national sample of 500 queer adults who completed two waves of data collection. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to evaluate two models: a one-factor model with internalized stigma specified as one overall construct and a two-factor model with internalized stigma specified as two constructs based on binary conceptions of gender (stigma regarding queer women and stigma regarding queer men).

Results

Results showed that the two-factor model best fit the data. This indicates that although implicit attitudes toward queer men and women are highly correlated, implicit internalized stigma differentiated by two gender stimuli groups (men and women) more accurately reflects the data. There was evidence of convergent validity as Internal-SOS-AMP scores showed small positive associations with explicit internalized stigma. Regarding divergent validity, Internal-SOS-AMP scores were inversely related to affirmation of a queer identity. Reliability results for the Internal-SOS-AMP showed good internal consistency and acceptable test–retest reliability.

Discussion

The creation of the Internal-SOS-AMP used best practices for measurement development. Psychometric findings show strong evidence of content validity, convergent validity, divergent validity, and reliability of the Internal-SOS-AMP.
The effect of Tai Chi on elderly depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zhu Fengya , Wang Yuan , Yin Shao , Liu Junqian , Zhong Yue , Li Liuying
Published: November 2024

Objective

This systematic review and meta-analysis assess the impact of Tai Chi on emotional well-being and quality of life in elderly individuals with depression.

Methods

Searching six databases until October 20, 2024, including Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, SinoMed, and CNKI, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Participants were aged ≥60 and diagnosed with depression. Tai Chi served as the main intervention in the treatment group, with the control group receiving no exercise, or only health education. The primary outcomes focused on the improvement of depressive symptoms and quality of life. Data synthesis and meta-analysis were performed using Stata 15.1 software. The protocol of this study was registered on PROSPERO (ID: CRD42023479305).

Results

Tai Chi, as the main intervention, significantly improved depressive symptoms as measured by the Geriatric Depression Scale (WMD = −5.99, 95% CI: −10.80 to −1.19, p = 0.015) compared to no exercise or health education. Subgroup analysis favored a six-month duration of Tai Chi, showing even greater benefits (WMD = −9.79, 95% CI: −13.90 to −5.69, p < 0.001). However, Tai Chi did not demonstrate a significant advantage in improving participants’ scores on the Hamilton Depression Scale (WMD = −1.04, 95% CI: −3.84 to 1.76, p = 0.468).

Conclusion

Our results indicate that Tai Chi can significantly improve depressive symptoms and quality of life in elderly individuals with depression. As a daily exercise and mind–body therapy to alleviate the mood of the elderly, it is necessary to conduct more large-sample RCTs. Further research on the details of Tai Chi, such as movements, frequency, duration, and exercise periods, is essential for a dose–response relationship, contributing to the standardized promotion of Tai Chi.
The effect of sports participation on the social identity of Chinese university students
Authors: Ji Shuyu , Chen Shuwei , Yang Xiannan , Liu Tongshang , Wang Xiaolin
Published: November 2024

Objective

Strengthening youth sports and comprehensively promoting the participation of Chinese university students in sports to enhance their social acceptance are key initiatives for delivering high-quality talent for China’s economic and social development.

Methods

Using the China Comprehensive Social Survey as the data source and considering social mentality and social identity, we constructed corresponding statistical models to explore how sports participation influences the social identity (class identity, economic status, and emotional belonging) of Chinese university students.

Results

Regarded from a holistic perspective, sports participation can enhance the social identity of college students in all its aspects, and the benefits of sports participation are positively related to its frequency. Under the condition of social mentality, sports participation has a positive effect on the social identity of college students in general and a nonsignificant effect only on certain dimensions. Under the social identity condition, the significance of sports participation for college students’ social identity decreases from lower to higher levels of education.

Conclusion

Sports participation significantly enhances the social identity of Chinese university students, and the specific mechanism of the enhancement varies across the social mentality and social identity conditions. In this context, strengthening the role of sports participation in promoting the social identity of college students in the new era is necessary. Deepening the ideological content of physical education courses should be taken as the starting point to enhance the effectiveness of sports participation on the social identity of college students under the condition of social mentality. The effectiveness of sports participation on the social identity of college students with different social identities should be differentiated and enhanced.
The relationship between childhood psychological abuse and cyberbullying behavior among graduate students: the mediating role of negative coping style and trait anxiety
Authors: Shen Yi
Published: November 2024

Background

As a major public health problem, cyberbullying has been received widespread attention in recent years. However, most researches on cyberbullying are mainly focused on adolescents and college students, the underlying mechanisms of cyberbullying among graduate students have been relatively less investigated. From the perspectives of the general aggression model and attachment theory, this study aims to explore the relationship between childhood psychological abuse and cyberbullying behavior among graduate students, as well as the mediating roles of negative coping style and trait anxiety.

Materials and methods

A total of 482 graduate students were surveyed using measures including the Childhood Psychological Abuse Scale, Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire, Self-Rating Anxiety Scale, and Cyberbullying Behavior Scale.

Results

(1) There were significant positive correlations between childhood psychological abuse, negative coping style, trait anxiety, and graduate students’ cyberbullying behavior; (2) Childhood psychological abuse could forecast graduate students’ cyberbullying behavior through the mediating effects of negative coping style and trait anxiety. This mediation process includes two pathways: the independent mediating effect of negative coping style and the chained mediating effect of negative coping style and trait anxiety.

Conclusion

Negative coping style and trait anxiety play mediating roles in the relationship between childhood psychological abuse and cyberbullying behavior among graduate students.
Physical activity and non-suicidal self-injurious behavior in Chinese adolescents: the chain mediating role of psychological capital and relative deprivation
Authors: Gao Yingzhe , Lu Changfen , Zhang Xiaoqiang , Han Beining , Hu Huijuan
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Physical activity has been shown to alleviate negative emotions. We examined whether physical activity is associated with lower non-suicidal self-injurious behavior in adolescents and the mediating and chain-mediating roles of psychological capital and relative deprivation in this association.

Methods

451 secondary school students (44.57% girls; ages 13-19) completed the Physical Activity Rating Scale, Adolescent Non-Suicidal Self-Injurious Behavior Scale, Psychological Capital Scale, and Adolescent Relative Deprivation Scale in their classrooms. In addition, this study used SPSS 26.0 for statistical data analysis and the SPSS macro program PROCESS 4.1 to explore the mediation role.

Results

Regression-based analyses showed that higher psychological capital and lower relative deprivation individually and sequentially mediated the association between physical activity and lower NSSI.

Conclusion

These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how and why physical activity affects adolescents’ non-suicidal self-injurious behaviors. At the same time, the result may provide new insights into prevention and intervention efforts for non-suicidal self-injurious behaviors in adolescents.
Current status and risk determinants of locomotive syndrome in geriatric cancer survivors in China—a single-center cross-sectional survey
Authors: Yang Yu-Ling , Su Hui , Lu Hui , Yu Hui , Wang Jing , Zhou Yu-Qing , Li Ling , Chen Ying
Published: November 2024

Objective

To assess the prevalence and risk determinants of locomotive syndrome (LS) in geriatric cancer survivors in China. To generate evidence-based insights for the clinical prevention and intervention strategies concerning LS in this vulnerable population, emphasizing the need for integrated public health initiatives focused on maintaining mobility among geriatric cancer survivors.

Methods

Six hundred geriatric cancer survivors were recruited at a hospital in China. A demographic questionnaire, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short (IPAQ-S), and the Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale (GLFS-25) were administered. Survivors were stratified into three physical activity level (PAL) groups via IPAQ-S scores: low, medium, and high. LS was operationally defined via GLFS-25 scores, with cut-offs established for LS-1, LS-2, and LS-3. Elevated GLFS-25 scores signified deteriorated motor function (MF) and increased severity of LS. Data analysis was done to investigate the risk determinants to the occurrence and exacerbation of LS among geriatric cancer survivors.

Results

Of the 524 geriatric cancer survivors who completed the study, 292 (55.7%) were diagnosed with LS, including 152 (29%) categorized under LS-1, 52 (9.9%) under LS-2, and 88 (16.8%) under LS-3. Univariate analysis indicated that variations in exercise habits, prior occupational type, presence of tumor metastasis or recurrence, visual impairments, somatosensory abnormalities, and PAL were significantly associated with differing occurrences and severities of LS (p < 0.05). Ordinal logistic regression revealed that prior occupational type (OR = 0.466), tumor metastasis (OR = 0.404), tumor recurrence (OR = 0.341), and PAL (medium: OR = 7.178; high: OR = 1.984) were independent risk determinants modulating both the occurrence and severity of LS in cancer survivors (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The occurrence of LS is notably elevated among geriatric cancer survivors in China, indicating a significant public health concern. Individuals who were previously engaged in non-physically demanding occupations and those with histories of tumor metastasis or recurrence, coupled with reduced PAL, demonstrate a heightened susceptibility and severities to LS. Early identification of these risk determinants is imperative for mitigating the onset and progression of LS. Comprehensive public health strategies, including regular screening programs, targeted physical rehabilitation initiatives, and community-based interventions, are essential to mitigate the onset and progression of LS in this vulnerable population, ultimately reducing its broader impact on aging-related health outcomes.
Impact of intensive hypertension criteria on multimorbidity prevalence and patterns in a multi-ethnic Chinese population
Authors: Liu Yezhou , Mi Baibing , Pei Leilei , Dang Shaonong , Yan Hong , Li Chao
Published: November 2024

Background

The impact of intensive hypertension criteria on multimorbidity prevalence and patterns remains understudied. We investigated the prevalence and patterns of multimorbidity using both the current (140/90 mmHg) and intensive (130/80 mmHg) hypertension criteria within a multi-ethnic Chinese population.

Methods

Data were obtained from the baseline survey of the Regional Ethnic Cohort Study in Northwest China, conducted from June 2018 to May 2019, which enrolled adults aged 35–74 years from five provinces. A total of 114,299 participants were included in this study. Multimorbidity was defined as the presence of at least two chronic diseases or conditions from a list of 26, ascertained through self-report and physical examination. Agglomerative hierarchical cluster analysis was employed to identify multimorbidity patterns. A hypertension-related multimorbidity pattern was identified and further analyzed. The prevalence of multimorbidity and hypertension-related pattern were analyzed in different subgroups, and subgroup cluster analyses were conducted stratified by sex, age, and ethnicity.

Results

Applying the intensive 130/80 mmHg hypertension criteria resulted in an increase in multimorbidity prevalence from 17.6% (20,128 participants) to 21.7% (24,805 participants) compared to the 140/90 mmHg criteria. Four distinct multimorbidity patterns were consistently identified: cardiometabolic, digestive-bone-kidney, respiratory, and mental-cancer. Hypertension consistently clustered within the cardiometabolic pattern alongside diabetes, acute myocardial infarction, angina, and stroke/TIA, with relatively stable proportions observed even under the 130/80 mmHg threshold.

Conclusion

The revision of hypertension criteria significantly expands the population identified as having multimorbidity, without altering the identified multimorbidity patterns. Hypertension commonly co-occurs within the cardiometabolic cluster. These findings highlight the need for improved treatment and management strategies specifically targeting cardiometabolic multimorbidity.
Assessment of acceptance and associated factors of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis among commercial female sex workers in drop-in centers selected sub-cities of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Berhe Trhas Tadesse , Asfaw Elefie Asfaw , Tedla Getachew Weldyohanes
Published: November 2024

Background

Globally, female sex workers (FSWs) face high risk of HIV, particularly in regions like sub-Saharan Africa. In Ethiopia and Addis Ababa, the impact is significant. Implementing WHO-recommended measures, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), is crucial to reducing new HIV infections and addressing service access disparities among FSWs. Thus this study aimed to assess the acceptance of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) among commercial female sex workers in selected sub-cities of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2022.

Method

Institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted on three randomly selected sub-cities of Addis Ababa from June 20 to July 30, 2022. All (358) commercial sex workers available during the study period were included. A structured, pretested, and interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with acceptance of pre-exposure prophylaxis and statistical significance was determined at p-value <0.05. An odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was used to measure association estimates.

Result

A total of 358 female sex workers responded, 67.9% (95% CI: 63.7, 73.2%) were willing to take pre-exposure prophylaxis. Acceptability of pre-exposure prophylaxis was significantly associated with the accessibility of pre-exposure prophylaxis at easily reachable areas (AOR3.786; 95%CI: 1.449, 9.894) and knowledge about pre-exposure prophylaxis (AOR 3.270; 95%CI: 1.336, 8.001).

Conclusion

Acceptability of pre-exposure prophylaxis among female sex workers was 67.9% which is low. Accessibility of pre-exposure prophylaxis is an easily reachable area and knowledge of about it could significantly affect its acceptability.
Efficient integration of personal factors into the international classification of functioning, disability, and health (ICF): the importance of emotional and motivational aspects in goal pursuit
Authors: Tsuda Ayano , Manalo Emmanuel , Miyai Ichiro , Noda Tomoyuki
Published: November 2024

The International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) is a widely used framework in rehabilitation that provides standardized measures to describe health and health-related states of people. The strength of the ICF lies in its provision of a common language for describing rehabilitation progress. However, personal factors are not classified within the ICF due to their significant variability across cultures, which may render it not adequately capturing the subjective and social dimensions of disability. Our objective in this research was to propose theoretical frameworks that could help identify relevant personal factors for inclusion in the ICF. We discuss the Personality Systems Interaction (PSI) Theory to identify personal variability in goal pursuit, highlighting the importance of emotions like negative and positive affect in handling adverse situations and managing habitual behaviors. Additionally, the theory helps to determine personality factors relevant to patients, facilitating the resolution of potential issues that may emerge during the goal achievement process. We also emphasize the role of goal setting in rehabilitation and suggest the Goal-Oriented Action Linking (GOAL) model as a useful tool for understanding how motivational values change over time, distance, and progress. Following from this, we discuss the importance of self-efficacy and its relationship to effort and goal achievement, while noting potential issues in its assessment. Finally, we propose viable assessment methods for measuring the potential components to be incorporated as personal factors.
Design and control of a low-cost non-backdrivable end-effector upper limb rehabilitation device
Authors: Li Fulan , Guo Yunfei , Xu Wenda , Zhang Weide , Zhao Fangyun , Wang Baiyu , Du Huaguang , Zhang Chengkun
Published: November 2024

This paper presents GARD, an upper limb end-effector rehabilitation device developed for stroke patients. GARD offers assistance force along or towards a 2D trajectory during physical therapy sessions. GARD employs a non-backdrivable mechanism with novel motor velocity-control-based algorithms, which offers superior control precision and stability. To our knowledge, this innovative technical route has not been previously explored in rehabilitation robotics. In alignment with the new design, GARD features two novel control algorithms: Implicit Euler Velocity Control (IEVC) algorithm and a generalized impedance control algorithm. These algorithms achieve O(n) runtime complexity for any arbitrary trajectory. The system has demonstrated a mean absolute error of 0.023 mm in trajectory-following tasks and 0.14 mm in trajectory-restricted free moving tasks. The proposed upper limb rehabilitation device offers all the functionalities of existing commercial devices with superior performance. Additionally, GARD provides unique functionalities such as area-restricted free moving and dynamic Motion Restriction Map interaction. This device holds strong potential for widespread clinical use, potentially improving rehabilitation outcomes for stroke patients.
Integrating community knowledge into nature-based solutions for the sustainability of water ecosystem services: insight from local communities in Ecuador
Authors: Fonseca Kalina , Espitia-Sarmiento Edgar Fabian , Ilbay-Yupa Mercy , Breuer Lutz
Published: November 2024

The political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal (PESTEL) dimensions in a local community shape the adoption of specific nature-based solutions (NbS). This study provides crucial insights on NbS tailored to smallholder indigenous and peasant communities heavily reliant on water ecosystem services from headwater streams, lakes, ponds, and reservoirs in the páramo ecosystems of the central Ecuadorian Andes. Combining a multi-stakeholder workshop with bibliometric analysis, we developed a framework that integrates NbS with local communities’ PESTEL dimensions to sustain water ecosystem services. As a result, the lack of political will to sustain healthy aquatic ecosystems, urban-centered environmental investment, and agricultural expansion mainly influence the sustainability of water ecosystem services in the political, economic and environmental dimensions. Social, legal, and technological dimensions encompass community dissatisfaction, resistance to conservation, neglect of clean water and land use regulations, and limited innovation investment. Artificial floating islands and passive river restoration were the NbS adaptable to these PESTEL dimensions in our local communities. Artificial floating islands, a macrophyte-based technology that integrates community plant knowledge, are feasible even with limited financial resources. Passive river restoration complements them to promote headwater vegetation recovery and governance of water ecosystem services. Their integration supports drinking water supply, irrigation, fisheries, water purification, habitat conservation, soil formation carbon sequestration, and the achievement of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We provide decision-makers with a rigorous assessment of NbS for local communities, with the potential to scale to countries with similar contexts and highlight the need for future research to explore NbS in regional or national frameworks.