Personality Measures Research Articles

Mental health trajectories in university students across the COVID-19 pandemic: findings from the Student Wellbeing at Northern England Universities prospective cohort study.

Psychological wellbeing in university students is receiving increased focus. However, to date, few longitudinal studies in this population have been conducted. As such, in 2019, we established the Student Wellbeing At Northern England Universities (SWANS) cohort at the University of York, United Kingdom aiming to measure student mental health and wellbeing every six months. Furthermore, the study period included the COVID-19 pandemic, giving an opportunity to track student wellbeing over time, including over the pandemic. Eligible participants were invited to participate via email. Data were collected, using Qualtrics, from September 2019 to April 2021, across five waves (W1 to W5). In total, n = 4,622 students participated in at least one wave of the survey. Data collection included sociodemographic, educational, personality measures, and mental health and wellbeing. Latent profile analyses were performed, exploring trajectories of student wellbeing over the study period for those who had completed at least three of the five waves of the survey (n = 765), as measured by the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (WEMWBS). Five latent profile trajectories of student wellbeing were identified. Of these, the two latent classes with initially higher wellbeing scores had broadly stable wellbeing across time (total n = 505, 66%). Two classes had lower initial scores, which lowered further across time (total n = 227, 30%). Additionally, a fifth class of students was identified who improved substantially over the study period, from a mean WEMWBS of 30.4 at W1, to 49.4 at W5 (n = 33, 4%). Risk factors for having less favourable wellbeing trajectories generally included identifying as LGBT+, self-declaring a disability, or previously being diagnosed with a mental health condition. Our findings suggest a mixed picture of the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on student wellbeing, with a majority showing broadly consistent levels of wellbeing across time, a smaller but still substantial group showing a worsening of wellbeing, and a small group that showed a very marked improvement in wellbeing. Those from groups traditionally underrepresented in higher education were most at risk of poorer wellbeing. This raises questions as to whether future support for wellbeing should target specific student subpopulations.

Psychometric Properties of the Revised Trolling Questionnaire in Argentinean Adults

Trolling with new technologies is a disruptive, deceptive, and destructive behavior, with great psychosocial, legal, and economical relevance. However, there are no studies in the scientific literature that have examined the properties of questionnaires to assess them. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to observe the psychometric properties of the Revised Trolling Questionnaire by Buckels et al.’s in a sample of Argentinean adults. An intentional sample of 837 participants from Argentina (mean age = 28.4 years; 61% female) was formed. They completed the Buckels et al.’s Revised Trolling Questionnaire, measures of dark personality, Internet addiction, cyberstalking, and socio-demographic questions. Exploratory and confirmatory factorial analyses indicated a one-factor structure with correct fit statistics. Internal consistency was adequate: Cronbach’s α = .80 and Omega coefficient (ω) = .81. Concurrent validity of the trolling questionnaire was observed with dark personality (Machiavellianism, narcissism and psychopathy), problematic Internet use (symptomatology and disfunctionality), and cyberstalking. Machiavellianism and disfunctionality were the most significant variables associated with trolling. Therefore, the Argentinean Spanish version of this test showed evidence of adequate psychometric properties.

The effect of auricular vagus nerve stimulation on electroencephalography and electromyography measurements in healthy persons.

Objectives: Auricular vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a non-invasive treatment modality. Opinions that it can be used in the treatment of various clinical problems have gained importance in recent years. In this study, it was aimed to lay the groundwork for the use of the auricular VNS in different ears. Methods: Healthy individuals (n = 90) were divided into three groups: unilateral left (n = 30), unilateral right (n = 30), and bilateral (n = 30) auricular VNS. Electroencephalography (EEG) and electromyography (EMG) measurements were performed before and after auricular VNS (10Hz, 300µs, 20min) for a single session. Results: An increase in wrist extensor muscles activation was detected on the contralateral side of the auricular VNS application side. It has been observed that there is a general decrease in the power of high-frequency waves and an increase in the power of lower-medium frequency waves in various parts of the brain. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the projection of the auricular VNS in the central nervous system may also affect the corticospinal tracts.

Consulting the CDC and TikTok: asynchronous modes of joint media engagement for COVID-19 learning in families

ABSTRACT Media resources are a central component of families’ learning ecologies in the U.S. At the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, the information ecosystem was flooded with content about the SARS-CoV-2 virus and personal protection measures. However, much of the coverage came through channels for adult audiences, and the ‘infodemic’ added to the difficulty of interpreting information from media sources. This article presents an analysis of the media learning ecologies of 109 families of 5–11-year-old children in the United States and describes how asynchronous modes of joint media engagement facilitated learning about Covid-19 during the early months of the pandemic. Findings call for a broader conceptualization of joint media engagement for learning in technologically saturated families.

Patient and visitor verbal aggression toward frontline health-care workers: a qualitative study of experiences and potential solutions

PurposeViolence toward frontline health-care workers (HCWs) from patients and visitors is a pervasive issue that ranges from verbal and psychological abuse to physical assault. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased reports of escalated verbal workplace aggressions (VWPAs); however, most studies have been conducted internationally. Studies based in the USA have focused on physical violence experienced by nurses and paramedics in emergency situations. The purpose of this study is to learn about the experiences of different levels of frontline HCWs with VWPA from patients and visitors and discover ways to address this issue.Design/methodology/approachThis qualitative descriptive study asked registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and patient care technicians from one health-care system about their experiences with patient and visitor VWPA using an anonymous, voluntary open-ended survey and in-person interviews. In all, 31 participants completed the survey and 2 were interviewed. Data were analyzed using content analysis.FindingsThree themes emerged from the data: the experience, moving through and moving forward. Frontline HCWs described experiences of VWPA, indicating its forms, frequency and conditions. They used coping, along with personal and professional measures, to manage and move through the situation. Moving forward was captured as suggestions for the future and conveyed hope for a perfect state.Originality/valueThe experiences of frontline HCWs offered insight into how they perceive and cope with difficult encounters. Recommendations relate to not only implementing interventions that support frontline HCWs but also creating a culture where aggression is not tolerated and addressing perpetrator behavior is a priority.

Design of Safety Tracking Device for Worker's Safety And Monitoring

Safety Tracking is the process of tracing a person’s ware bouts and their vitals and health in case of an emergency or accident. A device which sends or saves this data is considered as a safety tracking device. This device may help multiple sensors attached to the device itself or attached to the person there by reading and sending their ware boats and data within the parameter of the workspace in a company to a live supervisor or data storage so that it can be reviewed in case an accident occurs. This data can be used to study any accidents involving that person and device preventive measures of that accident again. The novel system can acquire the real-time working condition information of faculties such as pipe flow, pressure, temperature, humidity of the environment, current & voltage of the electrical equipment, valve switch, relay action, alarming message it can upload the collected data to the monitoring center to the client/server architecture. Based on these data, an electrical early warning model depending on the change in surroundings based on neural work is proposed. A personal safety evaluation model based on ontology with the usage of protege is established, which facilitate the on-line monitoring and control of building fire protection information, the prediction of accidents and improve building safety level evaluation.

Understanding the time-activity pattern to improve the measurement of personal exposure: An exploratory and experimental research

Although ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations and their components are commonly used as proxies for personal exposure monitoring, developing an accurate and cost-effective method to use these proxies for personal exposure measurement continues to pose a significant challenge. Herein, we propose a scenario-based exposure model to precisely estimate personal exposure level of heavy metal(loid)s (HMs) using scenario HMs concentrations and time-activity patterns. Personal exposure levels and ambient pollution levels for PM2.5 and HMs differed significantly with corresponding personal/ambient ratios of approximately 2, and exposure scenarios could narrow the assessment error gap by 26.1–45.4%. Using a scenario-based exposure model, we assessed the associated health risks of a large sample population and identified that the carcinogenic risk of As exceeded 1 × 10−6, while we observed non-carcinogenic risks from As, Cd, Ni, and Mn in personal exposure to PM2.5. We conclude that the scenario-based exposure model is a preferential alternative for monitoring personal exposure compared to ambient concentrations. This method ensures the feasibility of personal exposure monitoring and health risk assessments in large-scale studies.

The DS-14 questionnaire: psychometric characteristics and utility in patients with obstructive sleep apnea.

To determine the internal consistency and test-retest reliability of the DS-14 questionnaire, as well as the prevalence of type D personality in the overall OSA sample and subgroups. We assessed the influence of type D on perceived symptoms and its congruence with self-reported measures of personality, depression, fatigue, anxiety, quality of life, and quality of sleep. Patients with OSA completed the DS-14 questionnaire, Big Five Inventory-2 questionnaire, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, SF-36 Health Survey Questionnaire, Epworth Sleepiness Scale and Stanford Sleepiness Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Insomnia Severity Index, Fatigue Assessment Scale, and Checklist Individual Strength. After 1 month, the DS-14 questionnaire was repeated. The overall prevalence of type D personality was 32%. Internal consistency (negative affectivity: α = 0.880, social inhibition: α = 0.851) and diagnostic test-retest reliability (kappa value = 0.664) of the DS-14 questionnaire were high. Significantly more symptoms of anxiety, depression, poor sleep quality, fatigue, and a worse health perception were found in OSA with type D. Neither OSA severity nor REM predominance altered these observations. The DS-14 questionnaire showed excellent psychometric properties in patients with OSA. The prevalence of type D personality in patients with OSA was higher than in the general population. The presence of type D personality was associated with higher symptom burden.

Intergenerational caregiving on mental health of middle-aged and older adults in China: empirical insights.

The impact of intergenerational caregiving on the mental health of providers remains a controversial topic, especially in countries like China where it is prevalent. Given the country's aging population and recent liberalization of the two-child policy, understanding the effects of intergenerational caregiving on the mental health of middle-aged and older adult(s) individuals is crucial. This study aimed to explore the impact of intergenerational caregiving on mental health among middle-aged and older adult(s) individuals. We analyzed data from the China Health and Aging Tracking Survey (CHARLS) 2013, consisting of 6602 participants finally. Personal information, family structure, financial support, health status, and physical measurements were selected for analysis. Correlation and regression analyses were used for relationships among variables controlling for potential confounding variables. Mental health status was evaluated using the depression self-rating scale. There is a significant positive effect of intergenerational care on the mental health of middle-aged and older adult(s) people. Additionally, we re-profiled intergenerational care variables by considering the number and length of intergenerational caregivers, and found that the effects remained significant. Furthermore, the effects of intergenerational care vary across subgroups based on gender, age, nature of usual residence, marital status, and physical health status. Finally, we identified two mechanisms through which intergenerational caregiving positively affects mental health: intergenerational financial support and intergenerational spiritual support. These findings have important implications for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and family members in promoting the mental health of middle-aged and older adult(s) individuals in China.

Personal Networks and Grassroots Election Participation in China: Findings from the Chinese General Social Survey

Grassroots elections of rural village heads and urban community directors are an important public arena for social-political participation of Chinese citizens. Analyzing the Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS2017) data through the models of GSEM (general equation structure modeling) and fulfilling the robustness check via IV (instrumental variable) method (including IV-Probit and 2SLS-IV models), this article examines the direct and indirect effects of personal networks on voting participation after 2012 under the leadership of Xi. We find that people with greater amounts of network resources and higher frequencies of social eating with network members have a higher likelihood to participate in elections. As to mediating effects, the two measures of personal networks pave the way for people to participate in formal networks of associational engagement, which in turn increase their participation in elections; however, people with higher values in the two personal network measures tend to have lower levels of institutional trust, which in turn hinders voting participation. In comparison, the positive effects are more powerful than the negative ones, so on the whole, personal networks are acting as an important conducive force for grassroots election participation.

Anopheles diversity, biting behaviour and transmission potential in forest and farm environments of Gia Lai province, Vietnam

BackgroundDespite recent reductions in Vietnam, malaria transmission persists in some areas in forests and farmlands where a high density of Anopheles mosquitoes relative to other environments occurs. To inform effective malaria control measures, it is important to understand vector bionomics and the malaria transmission role of Anopheles spp. in the highland regions of Vietnam. This study was conducted to quantify the abundance, composition and biting behaviour of the Anopheles mosquito population, and the proportion of Plasmodium spp. infected mosquitoes collected from forest and agricultural farm sites in Gia Lai province, Vietnam.MethodsForest and agricultural farm sites in Gia Lai province were selected for mosquito collections (total eight sites). Mosquito collection was performed by Human-baited Double Net Trap (HDNT), animal-baited traps (ABT) using cattle, and CDC light traps. Captured mosquitoes were identified morphologically, and salivary glands of Anopheles mosquitoes were examined for sporozoites using microscopy. Plasmodium infection was determined by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), and identification of blood meal type was determined by PCR and diffuse serum agglutination assay.ResultsA total of 1815 Anopheles mosquitoes belonging to 19 species were collected by ABT (n = 1169), HDNT (n = 471) and CDC light trap (n = 175). Anopheles abundance and diversity varied by district and environment. Capture by HDNT of Anopheles of vectorial concern was observed between early evening and early morning. Plasmodium vivax infection was determined by PCR in two Anopheles dirus specimens captured by HDNT in forest sites. Blood from a range of hosts could, including human blood, could be detected in species considered primary and secondary vectors An. dirus, and Anopheles aconitus, and Anopheles maculatus, respectively.ConclusionsA low number of Anopheles spp. considered primary vectors of concern and very low numbers of Plasmodium spp. infected Anopheles mosquitoes were captured at the end of the rainy season in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. However, capture species of vectorial concern by HDNT throughout the early to late evening demonstrates that use of additional personal protective measures could supplement current preventative measures, such as bed nets to prevent exposure to vectors of concern in this region.

A joinpoint regression model to determine COVID-19 virulence due to vaccination programme in India: a longitudinal analysis from 2020 to 2022

BackgroundIn late 2019, coronavirus disease, an acute respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), was designated COVID-19 and declared a pandemic. The interim guidance for prevention is through voluntary quarantine, mandatory quarantine, personal protective measures and maintaining social distance in public places. However, considering the severity and rapid spread of the disease to various countries, vaccine development was the last option to cope with the dire consequences. As of 14 Feb 2023, approximately 756 million people were infected with COVID-19 and 6.84 million deaths. As of 30 Jan 2023, around 1317 crores of vaccine doses were administered worldwide. In India, as of 15 Feb 2023, there were approximately 44.15 million infected persons due to COVID-19 and 5,30,756 deaths (1.2%). Considering the high case fatality rate and population size, the Government of India (GOI) implemented the COVID vaccination programme on 16 Jan 2021. As of 15 Feb 2023, approximately 220.63 crores of vaccine doses were administered.MethodsWe applied joinpoint regression analysis to determine the virulence of COVID-19 cases concerning their daily percentage change (DPC) and average DPC (ADPC) during India’s prevaccination and vaccination phases. We considered the database of daily reporting of COVID-19 cases covering 1018 days (19 Mar 2020 to 31 Dec 2022) that included both prevaccination and vaccination phases.ResultsThree joinpoint regression analyses adequately fit the data and identified four segments during the prevaccination and vaccination phases. Although the DPC value was 6.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.7 to 8.3) in the initial period of 50 days, the ADPC value significantly declined to 1.6% (95% CI 1.3 to 1.8) at the end of the prevaccination phase. During the vaccination phase, the model identified two significant segment periods that coincided with the waves of SARS-CoV-2 and Omicron Delta variants. The corresponding DPC values were 4.6% (95% CI 4.2 to 4.9) and 21.6% (95% CI 15.1 to 28.4), respectively. Despite these waves, COVID vaccination significantly reduced the ADPC value (− 1.6%; 95% CI − 1.7 to − 1.5).ConclusionsWe demonstrated the lockdown and vaccination phases significantly reduced ADPC. Furthermore, we quantified the severity of SARS-CoV-2, the Delta and the Omicron variant. The study findings are significant from an epidemiological perspective and can help health professionals to implement appropriate control measures.

Hidden Problem of COVID-19: Behavioral Surveillance and Its Preventive Measures Among Rural Adult Population in Tamil Nadu, India.

Background COVID-19-appropriate behavior has been recommended by the Government of India to reduce the spread of the disease. However, a lack of awareness, inadequate knowledge, or improper practices regarding personal protective measures have contributed to the ongoing cases in India. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the pattern of behavioral surveillance related to COVID-19 and its preventive measures and also to study the impact of knowledge ofCOVID-19 on their behavior among the rural population in Tamil Nadu, India. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among the rural adult population in Siruvachur Village, Perambalur district, Tamil Nadu, from June to December 2022. The study included adult participants aged 18 years and older who had no previous history of COVID-19 disease. The participants were selected using a systematic random sampling method. A pre-designed and semi-structured questionnaire was used to assess their awareness of COVID-19, knowledge of symptoms, preventive measures, and actual behavioral practices. The collected data were analyzed using IBM Corp. Released 2011. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 20.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp. The chi-square test and linear regression were employed to assess the association and strength between behavior and knowledge of COVID-19 preventive measures. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results According to the results, 94.7% of the participants reported being aware of COVID-19, with fever being recognized as the most common symptom. Regarding specific preventive measures, 71.5% of participants demonstrated adequate knowledge of handwashing, while only 55.3% had sufficient knowledge of social distancing norms. In terms of mask usage, 62% reported having adequate knowledge of how to use masks to prevent COVID-19 transmission. However, despite having adequate knowledge, the study found that only 11.3% of participants consistently used masks in outdoor settings. This indicates a significant gap between knowledge and actual behavior in mask usage. Furthermore, a significant association was found between knowledge and behavioral practices related to COVID-19 preventive measures, such as mask usage and social distancing. In other words, participants who possessed greater knowledge of these measures were more likely to exhibit corresponding behaviors. On the other hand, the study did not find a significant impact of handwashing knowledge on actual handwashing behavior (p>0.05). Conclusion Despite a relatively high level of knowledge and awareness, there is a significant gap between knowledge and actual behavioral practices, particularly in terms of mask usage and hand hygiene. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to bridge the gap between knowledge and behavior in COVID-19 preventive measures, particularly in terms of consistent mask usage and adherence to social distancing norms. Efforts should focus not only on increasing knowledge but also on promoting behavior change through effective education, awareness campaigns, and practical demonstrations of proper preventive measures.

The role of maladaptive personality in behavioural and psychological symptoms in dementia

AbstractBackgroundAlthough research demonstrated a significant link between premorbid normative personality traits and the severity of behavioural and psychological symptoms in dementia (BPSD) and associated emotional distress of the caregiver, little is known about the relationship of BPSD symptoms and associated distress with maladaptive traits.MethodInformants (N = 182) of Dutch nursing home residents with dementia aged 65+, completed the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire to assess the severity of BPSD and associated emotional distress. Premorbid maladaptive personality traits were evaluated using informant versions of a brief version of the Personality Inventory for Diagnostic and Statistical manual of Mental Disorders‐5 (PID‐5‐BF), and two age‐specific personality measures, the Informant Personality Questionnaire (HAP), and Gerontological Personality disorder Scale. Relationships between premorbid personality and BPSD were investigated with correlational and ordinal regression analyses.ResultsBPSD severity and distress were associated with medium sized correlations to Negative Affectivity, Antagonism and indications of personality disorder presence. The emotional distress also correlated with a medium effect with Detachment. Higher scores on maladaptive personality traits increased the odds of higher BPSD severity and distress.ConclusionResults found with age‐specific personality measures were in line with results found with other measures of (mal)adaptive traits. Several maladaptive personality traits had a significant relationship with the BPSD severity and associated emotional distress. We therefore encourage to implement personality assessment within BPSD treatment strategies. This way care becomes more person‐focused and more tailored to the specific needs of patients and caregivers.

Can Boxing Deliver a Knockout Punch against Parkinson's Disease? A Review of the Evidence

Apply It!• Understand how Parkinson's disease influences motor and nonmotor function.• Examine how boxing programs can improve functional performance outcomes and quality of life measures in persons with Parkinson's disease.

Knowledge, Behavior and Practices about Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Jizan region: Cross-sectional study 2020

Background: SARSCoV2 disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a serious ongoing pandemic that causes death worldwide. Unprecedented steps have been taken to contain the ongoing COVID-19 epidemic in Saudi Arabia. Compliance with personal measures is influenced by their knowledge, behavior, and practices toward COVID-19. Aims: To determine the knowledge, behavior, and practice of COVID-19 among the population in Jizan City in Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional web-based survey was conducted on Jizan residents from December 2019 – April 2020. The data was collected through convenient sampling using internet-based surveys distributed to participants using the “snowball” technique. All residents over the age of 15 could participate in this study. Data analysis was performed using (SPSS). Results: A total of 527 participants were included in this study. The survey revealed that 52.4% of participants had good knowledge (8.8 ± 2.34 points out of 12), 60.9% had good behavior (7.4 ± 2.19 points out of 10), and 36.2% had good practices towards COVID-19 (7.9 ± 2.46 points out of 12). It was found that age and level of education were significantly associated with good knowledge about the COVID-19 virus (p < 0.01). Moreover, age and occupation were significantly associated with good behavior toward the COVID-19 virus (p < 0.01). However, Occupation was the only factor significantly associated with good practice toward the COVID-19 virus (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Jizan region residents show good knowledge and behavior toward COVID-19 prevention. However, it is not accompanied by good practice toward COVID-19 . Thus, text messages from health authorities and governments are recommended. The above-related factors should be considered in the application of those interventions. Keywords: COVID-19, Knowledge, behavior, Practices, Cross-sectional study

Preventive Measures and Hygiene Habits of Apple Producers in the Prespa Region.

Agriculture is one of the most dangerous industries, both for the employees in that sector and for their families and the environment. The use of personal protective preventive measures and the maintenance of good hygienic practices are the basis for healthy production and healthy workers. The safety and hygiene of food products should be present during all stages of production. The study aimed to assess the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by apple growers during agricultural procedures as well as the hygiene habits of agricultural workers. A cross-sectional study was conducted including 101 farmers from the Prespa region in the Republic of North Macedonia by using a questionnaire with 34 questions. The questions were formulated in order to give us an insight into the protective preventive measures undertaken at work by apple producers and their hygiene. The study included 101 apple growers from the Prespa region. Wearing a completely tidy special PPE when using pesticides was registered in 78.2% of farmers, and when lawn mowing in 42.5%. 16% of the surveyed farmers during agricultural activities did not always wash their hands after going to the toilet, and almost 30% of them did not use soap when washing their hands. There is inadequate hygiene practice/personal hygiene during agricultural activities. In addition, the proper use of PPE is not at a satisfactory level and poses a risk to the health of apple growers.

Laboratory associated zoonotic parasitic infections: a review of main agents and biosecurity measures

Laboratory workers are exposed to the risk of acquiring infections due to the manipulation of infectious materials. The biological hazard for researchers is seven times higher when compared with hospital and public health laboratory workers. Despite the implementation of standardized practices to control infections, multiple cases of Laboratory Associated Infections (LAIs) usually go unreported. There has been a lack of comprehensive epidemiological data regarding the situation of LAIs for parasitic zoonosis and besides, the available sources are not completely updated. Since most accounts of laboratory infections are organism-specific, this study has focused on common pathogenic/zoonotic species handled at parasitological laboratories and summarising the standard biosecurity protocols for the infectious agents. The main characteristics of Cryptosporidium spp., Entamoeba spp, Giardia duodenalis, Toxoplasma gondii, Leishmania spp., Echinococcus spp., Schistosoma spp., Toxocara canis, Ancylostoma caninum, Strongyloides stercoralis are considered in this review in order to assess the potential risk of developing occupational infections in the workplace along with stating prevention and prophylactic measures for each species. It was concluded that the LAIs from these agents can be prevented by using personal protective measures and good laboratory practices. However, further studies are necessary to better understand the environmental resistance of cysts, oocysts and eggs, with a view to select the most suitable disinfection methods. Furthermore, it is fundamental to constantly update epidemiological data of infection acquired by laboratory workers, to develop accurate risk indicators.

What are The Best Outcome Measures for Persons with Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and HSD: A Pilot Study?

Background: Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos, (hEDs), and Hypermobile Spectrum Disorder (HSD) are connective tissue diseases that are often clinically indistinguishable. The purpose of this study was to assess 3 outcomes for utility for persons with these diseases in terms of intrarater, interrater reliability and intertrial reliability as well as, the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI) an assessment of participants perception of pain and quality of life. To assess change in vital signs and cortisol saliva measures before and after testing. Lastly, compare participants to normal. Methods: Participants attended 3 sessions within 2 weeks. Two trained examiners assessed the reliability of the two-minute walk test, (2MWT), five times sit to stand (5XSTS), grip strength on five participants. There were 10 participants, each completed the self-report, (HAQ-DI). 10 trained assessors evaluated between 1-10 of the participants for the stability of the scores between three trials. Vital signs and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) were assessed pre and post 2MWT; saliva samples were taken. Statistics: For 5 subjects the ICC (2,3) was computed for intra and interrater reliability. For 10 subjects (ICC3,3) intertrial consistency was done. Paired t tests assessed grip strength, change after 2MWT for vital signs, changes in cortisol, and assess the HAQ-DI between administrations. Pearson correlations were completed on HAQ-DI variables, RPE, saliva, and vital signs. Results: All intra and interrater reliability, intertrial agreement was found to be good to excellent. Paired t tests indicated that the HAQ-DI was stable and indicated a moderate perception of pain and reductions in quality of life. These participants showed evidence of impairments relative to normal. There were no differences in saliva cortisol levels. Conclusion: These tests appear to have utility in identification of impairments in bodily systems, activity levels and participation in these participants. Further investigation is necessary in order to establish the optimal management.

Optimization of ecological sports innovation teaching path based on multiple intelligence evaluation model

Abstract Rural sports tourism is an emerging industry that integrates rural tourism and sports tourism and plays an important role in broadening the field of sports and cultural consumption and driving rural economic development. Under the background of big data, how to better integrate rural sports culture and sports tourism becomes an important issue to improve the quality of rural tourism. This paper analyzes the big data of rural sports tourism on the Internet review platform based on big data processing technology, combined with the investigation and research on the current situation of rural sports tourism resources in a town. The big data analysis shows that rural sports tourists are only 7% more female than male, and the overall gender ratio is relatively balanced. In terms of age composition, the largest number of tourists were between 36 and 45 years old, accounting for 42.6%. In addition, rural sports tourists aged 26 to 60 accounted for 82.6% of all, indicating that rural sports tourism is dominated by middle-aged and elderly people. In terms of travel time, the largest number of rural sports tourists chose 2 to 3 days, accounting for 33.8%, and only 2.3% traveled for more than 7 days. In the choice of travel mode, 37.6% of tourists are organized by travel agencies, accounting for the largest number of travelers. From the big data emotional analysis of the evaluation words of sports tourists, the most frequent occurrence is characteristic, reaching 435 times, and the least frequent is danger, but also 89 times. Meanwhile, convenience and health also appear more frequently. Comprehensive analysis of the above, this paper believes that rural sports tourism should promote more local characteristics of sports culture and highlight differentiation while strengthening personal safety protection measures for tourists.