Physical Outcomes Research Articles

Using the SCAR-Q to Evaluate Morbidity of Scars in Craniosynostosis Repair.

While previous literature has investigated the psychosocial impact and aesthetic satisfaction associated with post-operative scarring for certain pediatric craniofacial conditions, the impact of the scar burden resulting from craniosynostosis surgery has not been adequately studied. SCAR-Q was shared with patients ages 8 and older. Thirty-two complete patient responses were recorded. SCAR-Q is a PROM that consists of three independent scales - appearance, symptoms, and psychosocial impact - associated with a scar. Mann-Whitney U, linear regression, and Pearson correlation tests were used to evaluate associations between the scales, in addition to patient characteristics such as sex and suture involvement. Mean ages at time of surgery and survey completion were 9.65 ± 10.10 months and 12.10 ± 3.92 years, respectively. Mean scale scores were 81.5 ± 17.9 for appearance, 86.8 ± 12.4 for symptoms, and 79.3 ± 25.7 for psychosocial impact. Higher patient dissatisfaction with scar appearance correlated with more scar-related symptoms (r = 0.389; p = 0.028) and a greater psychosocial impact (r = 0.725; p < 0.001). SCAR-Q scales did not significantly correlate with age at surgery, age at survey completion, type of synostosis, or type of surgery; however, female patients reported lower mean appearance (65.4 vs. 86.0; p = 0.012) and psychosocial impact (57.3 vs. 85.5; p = 0.010) scores when compared to their male counterparts. It is vital that surgeons discuss patients' aesthetic satisfaction following craniosynostosis surgery in order to appropriately address and limit deleterious, long-term physical and psychosocial outcomes.

Psychosocial Correlates and Behavioral Response to a Carbon Fiber Orthosis and Intensive Rehabilitation Program

Introduction Carbon fiber custom dynamic orthoses (CDOs), a type of ankle-foot orthosis (AFO), have been shown to improve function and mobility. Psychosocial aspects of disability can influence outcomes in prosthetic and orthotic users, but their association with outcomes in CDO users is unknown. Objective The aim of this study was to examine the relationships between physical and psychosocial outcomes following an intensive rehabilitative program including a carbon fiber ankle-foot orthosis, and identify factors related to continued orthosis use. Study Design Retrospective cohort with long-term follow-up. Methods An online survey including questions about device behaviors, self-reported function, pain, global health, self-efficacy, pain interference, resilience, and kinesiophobia was completed by participants who received a custom carbon fiber ankle-foot orthosis and intensive training because of chronic neuromusculoskeletal lower-limb disability. Results The mean follow-up was 4.0 (±1.0) years. Sixty-three adult participants responded to the survey (21 women, 42 men; mean age, 41 ± 12 years). All psychosocial outcomes at follow-up were within “good” or “normal” limits (&lt;1 SD from reference population mean) on average. Strong correlations were observed between self-reported physical function and psychosocial outcomes, and moderate correlations were observed among psychosocial outcomes, between baseline physical outcomes and psychosocial outcomes, and between long-term outcomes and psychosocial outcomes. Device continuation at long-term follow-up was 68%. Conclusions Four years after the intervention, respondents with chronic lower-limb disabilities reported scores that were comparable to normative values for kinesiophobia, health-related quality of life, self-efficacy for managing their condition, pain interference, and psychological resilience. Clinical Relevance Psychosocial variables can affect the outcomes with, and perception of, orthotic devices in individuals with lower-limb neuromusculoskeletal deficits. A goal-oriented care program with emphasis on technique training, postdelivery follow-up, and psychosocial status may help explain long-term outcomes with CDOs and continued device use.

The Importance of Mind-Body in Pilates Method in Patients with Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain-A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background/Objectives: Chronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP) is a prevalent condition causing significant distress and healthcare costs globally. Despite various treatments, effective management remains challenging. Pilates, recognized for its focus on core strength and postural alignment, has emerged as a promising intervention. This study investigates the impact of mind-body in Pilates for directing participants on CNSLBP outcomes. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 67 participants, aged 18 to 65 years, suffering from CNSLBP. They were allocated into two groups: Pilates with mind-body cueing (n = 34) and Pilates without cueing (n = 33). Both groups underwent 60 min sessions twice weekly for 8 weeks. Outcome measures included pain intensity (Visual Analogue Scale), functional disability (Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire), fear of movement (Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia), and adherence (percentage of sessions attended). Statistical significance was determined through repeated measures ANOVA. Results: Both groups showed significant improvement in pain reduction, functional ability, and kinesiophobia. However, the mind-body group demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in kinesiophobia compared to the non-cueing group (p = 0.048), indicating the potential additional benefit of mind-body cueing in managing movement-related fear in CNSLBP. Conclusions: This study underscores the effectiveness of an 8-week Pilates intervention in managing CNSLBP, highlighting the added value of mind-body cueing in reducing fear of movement. These findings suggest incorporating mind-body cueing in Pilates could enhance the therapeutic benefits, particularly for patients with high levels of movement-related fear, potentially improving long-term adherence to physical activity and rehabilitation outcomes.

Comparison of two popular transducers to measure sit-to-stand power in older adults.

The Tendo Unit (TU) and GymAware (GA) are the two most frequently used linear transducers for assessing muscle power in older adults via the sit-to-stand (STS) test. Unlike TU, GA incorporates a sensor mechanism to correct for non-vertical movements, which may lead to systematic differences between devices. The aim of this study therefore was to compare GA to TU for measuring STS power in community-dwelling older adults. Community-dwelling adults (n = 51, aged ≥65 years, 61% female) completed a single chair stand, with peak power measured simultaneously using GA and TU. Participants also completed the pneumatic leg press, 8-Foot Up and Go (TUG) test, Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), and self-reported measures of physical function. Intraclass correlations (ICC) were used to assess agreement, and Pearson's correlations were used to assess correlations. The study protocol was prospectively registered on the Open Science Framework. In alignment with our pre-registered hypothesis, peak power demonstrated an ICC of 0.93 (95% CI: 0.88, 0.96). For secondary aims, both transducers showed a correlation greater than 0.8 compared to pneumatic leg press power. For physical performance outcomes, both TU and GA showed similar correlations, as hypothesized: SPPB (r = 0.29 for TU vs. 0.33 for GA), Chair Stands (r = -0.41 vs. -0.38), TUG Fast (r = -0.53 vs. -0.52), mobility questionnaire (r = 0.52 vs. 0.52) and physical function questionnaire (r = 0.44 vs. 0.43). GA and TU peak power showed a high degree of agreement and similar correlations with physical and self-reported performance measures, suggesting that both methods can be used for assessing STS power in older adults.

Exercise and Schizophrenia.

Schizophrenia is a complex mental disorder that affects millions of people worldwide and has a profound impact on various aspects of life, including physical activity. The relationship between schizophrenia and physical activity is an area of growing interest in medical and health research from a physical, mental, and psychosocial health perspective. Physical activity and structured exercise have been identified as promising interventions to improve physical and psychological health outcomes of people living with schizophrenia. This chapter provides a brief overview that explores various aspects of the relationship between physical activity, exercise, and schizophrenia. The impact of schizophrenia on human movement is discussed, along with an overview of physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness levels in adults with schizophrenia. Additionally, the influence of exercise interventions on physical and psychological outcomes will be discussed, along with current physical activity recommendations for those living with schizophrenia.

School-level intra-cluster correlation coefficients and autocorrelations for children’s accelerometer-measured physical activity in England by age and gender

BackgroundRandomised, cluster-based study designs in schools are commonly used to evaluate children’s physical activity interventions. Sample size estimation relies on accurate estimation of the intra-cluster correlation coefficient (ICC), but published estimates, especially using accelerometry-measured physical activity, are few and vary depending on physical activity outcome and participant age. Less commonly-used cluster-based designs, such as stepped wedge designs, also need to account for correlations over time, e.g. cluster autocorrelation (CAC) and individual autocorrelation (IAC), but no estimates are currently available. This paper estimates the school-level ICC, CAC and IAC for England children’s accelerometer-measured physical activity outcomes by age group and gender, to inform the design of future school-based cluster trials.MethodsData were pooled from seven large English datasets of accelerometer-measured physical activity data between 2002–18 (> 13,500 pupils, 540 primary and secondary schools). Linear mixed effect models estimated ICCs for weekday and whole week for minutes spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and being sedentary for different age groups, stratified by gender. The CAC (1,252 schools) and IAC (34,923 pupils) were estimated by length of follow-up from pooled longitudinal data.ResultsSchool-level ICCs for weekday MVPA were higher in primary schools (from 0.07 (95% CI: 0.05, 0.10) to 0.08 (95% CI: 0.06, 0.11)) compared to secondary (from 0.04 (95% CI: 0.03, 0.07) to (95% CI: 0.04, 0.10)). Girls’ ICCs were similar for primary and secondary schools, but boys’ were lower in secondary. For all ages, combined the CAC was 0.60 (95% CI: 0.44–0.72), and the IAC was 0.46 (95% CI: 0.42–0.49), irrespective of follow-up time. Estimates were higher for MVPA vs sedentary time, and for weekdays vs the whole week.ConclusionsAdequately powered studies are important to evidence effective physical activity strategies. Our estimates of the ICC, CAC and IAC may be used to plan future school-based physical activity evaluations and were fairly consistent across a range of ages and settings, suggesting that results may be applied to other high income countries with similar school physical activity provision. It is important to use estimates appropriate to the study design, and that match the intended study population as closely as possible.

Efficacy of Motor Imagery in the Rehabilitation of Stroke Patients: A Scope Review

This review examines the efficacy of motor imagery (MI) as a supplementary rehabilitation technique for stroke patients. Nine randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were analyzed, highlighting MI's potential to enhance motor recovery, mobility, balance, and psychological well-being. Significant improvements in upper-limb function were observed with combined mental and physical practice, evidenced by notable gains in Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) and Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) scores. MI-based exercise programs improved mobility and balance in elderly patients, reducing fall risk as measured by the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and Berg Balance Scale (BBS). MI was also found to enhance self-efficacy and functional performance, with significant increases in Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) scores. Neuroimaging studies revealed that MI activates cortical areas associated with motor control, supporting its role in promoting neural plasticity. Despite these promising results, the heterogeneity in participant characteristics, stroke severity, and MI protocols across studies poses challenges to standardization. Additionally, small sample sizes and reliance on self-report measures limit the generalizability of findings. Nevertheless, MI's low cost, minimal risk, and ease of integration into existing rehabilitation protocols make it a valuable adjunct to physical therapy. Standardized guidelines and personalized MI exercises tailored to individual needs are essential for maximizing benefits. Integrating MI into clinical practice can significantly enhance both physical and psychological recovery outcomes for stroke patients, offering a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation.

Shared Genetic Liability across Systems of Psychiatric and Physical Illness.

Epidemiological literature has shown that there are extensive comorbidity patterns between psychiatric and physical illness. However, our understanding of the multivariate systems of relationships underlying these patterns is poorly understood. Using Genomic SEM and Genomic E-SEM, an extension for genomic exploratory factor analysis that we introduce and validate, we evaluate the extent to which latent genomic factors from eight domains, encompassing 76 physical outcomes across 1.9 million cases, evince genetic overlap with previously identified psychiatric factors. We find that internalizing, neurodevelopmental, and substance use factors are broadly associated with increased genetic risk sharing across all physical illness domains. Conversely, we find that a compulsive factor is protective against circulatory and metabolic illness, whereas genetic risk sharing between physical illness factors and psychotic/thought disorders was limited. Our results reveal pervasive risk sharing between specific groups of psychiatric and physical conditions and call into question the bifurcation of psychiatric and physical conditions.

Unveiling the Triple Diffusion Bioconvective Applications for Couple Stress Nanofluid Due To an Oscillating Regime with Variable Thermal Features

Thermal engineering and industrial processes see various multidisciplinary applications due to the enhanced thermal performances of nanomaterials. The nanomaterials preserve a profound breakthrough in enhancing the heat transfer phenomenon. The objective of the current investigation is to address the thermal applications of couples-stress nanofluid in the presence of triple diffusion effects. The analysis is subject to the bioconvective significance of the suspension of microbes. The viscosity and thermal conductivity of a couple stress fluids are assumed to be variable. Moreover, we endorse linear thermal radiation effects and approach the problem with an effective Prandtl number. The source of flow is an oscillatory, porous stretching surface. Based on suggested flow assumptions, the model is represented via nonlinear couple partial differential equations (PDEs). We employ the homotopy analysis scheme to forecast the analytical simulations. The physical outcomes for the involved parameters are observed for the modeled problem. Various aspects based on the deduced results are claimed. Based on the performed analysis, it is observed that the magnitude of skin friction decreases due to variations in the couple-stress fluid parameter. The heat increases with the modified Dufour number and variable thermal conductivity coefficient. Furthermore, an increasing behavior of nanoparticle solutal concentration has been observed due to the Dufour-Lewis number.

Quantum Physics, Digital Computers, and Life from a Holistic Perspective

Quantum physics is a linear theory, so it is somewhat puzzling that it can underlie very complex systems such as digital computers and life. This paper investigates how this is possible. Physically, such complex systems are necessarily modular hierarchical structures, with a number of key features. Firstly, they cannot be described by a single wave function: only local wave functions can exist, rather than a single wave function for a living cell, a cat, or a brain. Secondly, the quantum to classical transition is characterised by contextual wave-function collapse shaped by macroscopic elements that can be described classically. Thirdly, downward causation occurs in the physical hierarchy in two key ways: by the downward influence of time dependent constraints, and by creation, modification, or deletion of lower level elements. Fourthly, there are also logical modular hierarchical structures supported by the physical ones, such as algorithms and computer programs, They are able to support arbitrary logical operations, which can influence physical outcomes as in computer aided design and 3-d printing. Finally, complex systems are necessarily open systems, with heat baths playing a key role in their dynamics and providing local arrows of time that agree with the cosmological direction of time that is established by the evolution of the universe.

PTSD symptoms, pain catastrophizing, and pain outcomes after acute orthopedic injury.

PTSD is associated with greater incidence of chronic pain. Pain catastrophizing often accounts for this association. Less is known about these relationships during the acute phase (1-2 months) following orthopedic traumatic injuries. We sought to understand which orthopedic traumatic injury-related PTSD symptoms were associated with acute pain and physical dysfunction and whether pain catastrophizing accounted for these associations. This secondary analysis uses baseline data from a multisite randomized controlled trial of an intervention for individuals with heightened pain catastrophizing or pain anxiety following acute orthopedic injury. We used partial correlations to examine associations between PTSD symptom clusters (re-experiencing, avoidance, negative alterations in cognitions and mood, and hyperarousal) and pain outcomes (pain intensity and physical dysfunction) controlling for pain catastrophizing. We used hierarchical regressions to evaluate unique associations between PTSD clusters and pain outcomes. In exploratory analysis, we examined the indirect effects of PTSD symptoms on pain outcomes through catastrophizing. Hierarchical linear regressions indicated that hyperarousal was uniquely associated with greater pain intensity with activity (β = 0.39, p < 0.001, ΔR2 =0.06) and physical dysfunction (β = 0.22, p = 0.04 ΔR2 =0.02). PTSD symptoms were still associated with pain with activity even with pain catastrophizing included in the models, and catastrophizing did not have a significant indirect effect on the relationship between PTSD and physical dysfunction (b=0.06, SEBoot=0.04, 95% CIBoot = [-0.003, 0.14]). Pain catastrophizing did largely account for the association between re-experiencing, avoidance, and negative alterations in cognitions and mood symptoms and pain at rest. Pain catastrophizing interventions may be best suited for limiting the impact of PTSD symptoms on pain at rest, but catastrophizing alone may not fully explain the relationship between PTSD symptoms and physical dysfunction after acute orthopedic injury. To prevent the negative association of PTSD symptoms, especially hyperarousal, on physical outcomes in acute pain populations, interventions may require more than solely targeting pain catastrophizing.

EHealth-Integrated Psychosocial and Physical Interventions for Chronic Pain in Older Adults: Scoping Review.

Chronic noncancer pain (CNCP) is highly present among older adults, affecting their physical, psychological, and social functioning. A biopsychosocial multimodal approach to CNCP management is currently extensively suggested by international clinical practice guidelines. Recently, the growing development and application of eHealth within pain management has yielded encouraging results in terms of effectiveness and feasibility; however, its use among the older population remains underexamined. The overall aim of this scoping review was to systematically map existing literature about eHealth multimodal interventions (including both physical and psychosocial components) targeting older adults with CNCP. This review adhered to the JBI methodology, a protocol was a priori registered as a preprint on the medRxiv platform, and the results were reported according to the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines. Four electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, and PsycINFO) were systematically searched for relevant articles. Studies were included if they reported on multimodal interventions (including both physical and psychosocial components) delivered through any eHealth modality to an older population with any type of CNCP. Two reviewers selected the studies: first by screening titles and abstracts and second by screening full-text articles. The quality of the included studies was evaluated using the Quality Assessment Tool for Studies with Diverse Designs. The results of the studies were summarized narratively. A total of 9 studies (n=6, 67% published between 2021 and 2023) with quality rated as medium to high were included, of which 7 (78%) were randomized controlled trials (n=5, 71% were pilot and feasibility studies). All the included studies evaluated self-management interventions, most of them (n=7, 78%) specifically designed for older adults. The participants were aged between 65 and 75 years on average (mean 68.5, SD 3.5 y) and had been diagnosed with different types of CNCP (eg, osteoarthritis and chronic low back pain). Most of the included studies (5/9, 56%) involved the use of multiple eHealth modalities, with a higher use of web-based programs and video consulting. Only 1 (11%) of the 9 studies involved a virtual reality-based intervention. The evaluated interventions showed signs of effectiveness in the targeted biopsychosocial outcomes, and the participants' engagement and ratings of satisfaction were generally positive. However, several research gaps were identified and discussed. Overall, of late, there has been a growing interest in the potential that eHealth multimodal interventions offer in terms of improving pain, physical, and psychosocial outcomes in older adults with CNCP. However, existing literature on this topic still seems scarce and highly heterogeneous, with few proper randomized controlled trials, precluding robust conclusions. Several gaps emerged in terms of the older population considered and the lack of evaluation of comorbidities. RR2-10.1101/2023.07.27.23293235.

Neuroendocrine challenges and clinical outcomes in men with chronic traumatic brain injury: a cross-sectional study.

Marked changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis have been documented in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). These enduring endocrine challenges could significantly influence the physical and psychological outcomes thereby impacting overall recovery. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and types of endocrine dysfunction in men with chronic TBI and to determine the association of endocrine dysfunction with clinical outcomes. A cross-sectional study that included male participants of 25-45 years (N = 66) with moderate to severe TBI within 6-24 months of injury. Serum Cortisol, Free T4, TSH, Luteinizing hormone, Testosterone, ACTH, Prolactin and IGF-1 were assessed. Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended (GOS-E) and Modified Barthel Index (MBI) scores were also assessed in them. The study cohort comprised male patients with a mean ± age of 32.8 ± 5.7 years. Low IGF-1 levels were most commonly encountered, followed by hypogonadism. Hypopituitarism was present in 56.1%. The proportion of hypogonadism was significantly higher in the group with moderate-total dependence (13/26) as compared to the functionally independent (8/40) group (50% vs. 20%; P = 0.011). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the factors associated with hypopituitarism, revealing that severity of injury (OR = 2.6;) and GOS-E (OR = 3.1) were significant (P < 0.10) on univariate analysis. This study emphasizes the need to screen TBI patients for neuroendocrine dysfunction during the chronic phases and to establish screening criteria.

Capturing How the Accelerometer Measured Physical Activity Profile Differs in People with Diabetic Foot Ulceration.

Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFUs) are a major complication of diabetes, with treatment requiring offloading. This study aimed to capture how the accelerometer-assessed physical activity profile differs in those with DFUs compared to those with diabetes but without ulceration (non-DFU). Participants were requested to wear an accelerometer on their non-dominant wrist for up to 8days. Physical activity outcomes included average acceleration (volume), intensity gradient (intensity distribution), the intensity of the most active sustained (continuous) 5-120 min of activity (MXCONT), and accumulated 5-120 min of activity (MXACC). A total of 595 participants (non-DFU = 561, DFU = 34) were included in the analysis. Average acceleration was lower in DFU participants compared to non-DFU participants (21.9 mg [95%CI:21.2, 22.7] vs. 16.9 mg [15.3, 18.8], p < 0.001). DFU participants also had a lower intensity gradient, indicating proportionally less time spent in higher-intensity activities. The relative difference between DFU and non-DFU participants was greater for sustained activity (MXCONT) than for accumulated (MXACC) activity. In conclusion, physical activity, particularly the intensity of sustained activity, is lower in those with DFUs compared to non-DFUs. This highlights the need for safe, offloaded modes of activity that contribute to an active lifestyle for people with DFUs.

Health-related outcomes of structured home-based rehabilitation programs among older adults: A systematic literature review

The aging population reveals the need to develop self-care interventions that promote autonomy and well-being. The current systematic review aimed to assess the association between the implementation of structured home-based rehabilitation programs to promote self-care in older adults and health-related outcomes among people aged 60 years or older. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a systematic literature review was performed. Three electronic databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL and Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection) were searched. Randomized experimental studies, that implemented a home-based rehabilitation program to promote self-care in older adults, and were published between 2019 and 2024, were retrieved. Data on health-related outcomes were collected. Eight studies were included; all eight studies implemented a monitored, progressive and customized rehabilitation program. The studies varied greatly regarding the sample size, the duration of the intervention, the rehabilitation program implemented and the instruments used. The implementation of structured home-based rehabilitation programs may contribute to improve physical and psychological health-related outcomes among older adults by promoting functional capacity, self-care and knowledge.

Upaya Meningkatan Hasil Belajar Kebugaran Jasmani Dengan Menerapkan Model Pembelajaran Kooperatif Tipe Student Teams Achievement Division (STAD)

This research is classroom action research, this research was conducted in class X6 of SMA Negeri 8 Denpasar. Based on the researcher's initial observations at SMA Negeri 8 Denpasar, several problems were found that affected student learning outcomes, especially physical fitness material. As an alternative to solving existing problems, researchers provide a solution in the form of putting into practice a cooperative learning model of the Student Teams Achievement Division (STAD) type with the aim of improving the physical fitness results of class X6 students. This investigation is classroom action research, this investigation was carried out in class X6 of SMA Negeri 8 Denpasar. A population of 45 people was used, and the entirety was used as a sample. The cycle in this research was carried out until it reached completion in accordance with the KKTP that had been determined at SMA Negeri 8 Denpasar, namely 75. After implementing the STAD type cooperative learning model, the average final score of students increased beyond the KKTP that had been determined. It can be concluded that the application of the STAD type cooperative learning model can improve physical fitness learning outcomes in class X6 students at SMA Negeri 8 Denpasar.

Implementation of the Physica Education Curriculum and Physical Literacy of the College Students in China

With the rapid economic development and improved living standards in China, health and physical activity have gained increasing importance. Physical Education (PE) courses, as a vital component of higher education, play a crucial role in cultivating well-rounded talents with robust physical health. However, the current implementation of PE curricula faces numerous challenges, including inadequate university emphasis, imperfect facilities, weak faculty strength, monotonous teaching content, and outdated teaching methods, resulting in unsatisfactory physical literacy outcomes among college students. Meanwhile, factors such as changing lifestyles, academic and employment pressures, and misconceptions about sports further hinder the improvement of physical literacy. This study aims to explore the relationship between PE curriculum implementation and physical literacy cultivation among college students, propose targeted improvement suggestions based on assessments and analyses of the current status, and delve into the cultivation mechanisms and development patterns to optimize PE courses and enhance college students' physical literacy. Theoretically, this research will enrich the theoretical framework of physical education; practically, it will promote the all-round development of college students, elevate their overall quality and competitiveness, and contribute to China's modernization drive.

Longitudinal Analysis of Cancer Family Caregiver Perception of Sleep Difficulty During Home Hospice.

Sleep difficulty in caregivers is associated with poor physical and psychological outcomes. The purpose of this study was to describe family caregivers' perception of sleep difficulty through the hospice trajectory after a cancer diagnosis as predicted by age, sex, self-report of anxiety or depression, and cohabitation. We conducted a secondary analysis of longitudinal data using multilevel modeling with nested model comparisons. Beginning with an unconditional growth model, predictors were added to nested models to test differential impact. Caregivers (n = 164) were predominately white (n = 160; 97%) and female (n = 113, 69%). We hypothesized that age, sex, history of anxiety or depression, and cohabitation would predict sleep difficulty. The cohabitation predictor model was a statistically significant model for caregiver perception of sleep difficulty that worsened throughout hospice caregiving (b = .184, 2 = 7.199, P = 0.027) but age, sex, and history of depression or anxiety did not improve model fit. Our findings indicate that family caregivers who cohabitate exhibit increased perception of sleep difficulty over the course of hospice. Future studies and interventions for hospice family caregivers' sleep should consider cohabitation between the patient and the caregiver as a significant predictor of sleep difficulty to observe and potentially mediate the negative outcomes associated with caregiver sleep difficulty. Further, determining the underlying reasons for sleep difficulty in cohabitation (e.g., patient symptoms or treatments) should be explored.

Older adults’ subjective aging perceptions, mentalization, and social relationships: a micro-longitudinal study

Objectives Social relationships are associated with various positive physical, psychological, and emotional outcomes in older adults. In line with the growing understanding of the role of subjective views of aging (VoA) for older adults’ quality of life, the current work examines how daily fluctuations in VoA affect social relationships. Moreover, as the ability to mentalize others’ states of mind (i.e. Theory of Mind) considerably enhances such relationships, this study assesses whether mentalization abilities mediate the VoA-social relationships link. Method Eighty-two Israeli older adults (mean age = 73.44, SD = 8.64, range = 60–95) completed a baseline online questionnaire containing background information, and subsequently filled out daily online questionnaires assessing ageist attitudes, subjective age, mentalization abilities, and positive social relationships for 14 consecutive days. Results Positive VoA (reduced ageist attitudes and/or a young subjective age) were associated with enhanced mentalization and positive relationships on a given day and in time-lagged analyses. Moreover, mentalization mediated the effect of previous-day VoA on next-day positive social relationships. VoA also mediated the effect of previous-day mentalization on next-day positive social relationships. Conclusion The study highlights the importance of mentalization capabilities for maintaining positive VoA/social relationships and expands the understanding of underlying factors associated with meaningful and close relationships in older adults.

Evaluating EEG neurofeedback in sport psychology: a systematic review of RCT studies for insights into mechanisms and performance improvement.

Electroencephalographic Neurofeedback Training (EEG NFT) aims to improve sport performance by teaching athletes to control their mental states, leading to better cognitive, emotional, and physical outcomes. The psychomotor efficiency hypothesis suggests that optimizing brain function could enhance athletic ability, indicating the potential of EEG NFT. However, evidence for EEG-NFT's ability to alter critical brain activity patterns, such as sensorimotor rhythm and frontal midline theta-key for concentration and relaxation-is not fully established. Current research lacks standardized methods and comprehensive studies. This shortfall is due to inconsistent EEG target selection and insufficient focus on coherence in training. This review aims to provide empirical support for EEG target selection, conduct detailed control analyses, and examine the specificity of electrodes and frequencies to relation to the psychomotor efficiency hypothesis. Following the PRISMA method, 2,869 empirical studies were identified from PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, Embase, CNKI, and PsycINFO. Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria: (i) proficient skill levels; (ii) use of EEG; (iii) neurofeedback training (NFT); (iv) motor performance metrics (reaction time, precision, dexterity, balance); (v) control group for NFT comparison; (vi) peer-reviewed English-language publication; and (vii) randomized controlled trial (RCT) design. Studies indicate that NFT can enhance sports performance, including improvements in shooting accuracy, golf putting, and overall motor skills, as supported by the psychomotor efficiency hypothesis. EEG NFT demonstrates potential in enhancing sports performance by optimizing performers' mental states and psychomotor efficiency. However, the current body of research is hampered by inconsistent methodologies and a lack of standardized EEG target selection. To strengthen the empirical evidence supporting EEG NFT, future studies need to focus on standardizing target selection, employing rigorous control analyses, and investigating underexplored EEG markers. These steps are vital to bolster the evidence for EEG NFT and enhance its effectiveness in boosting sport performance.