Psychological Tests Research Articles

Analysis of influencing factors and construction of nomogram prediction model of postoperative kinesiophobia in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty.

To explore the influencing factors of kinesiophobia and to establish a nomogram prediction model. A retrospective observational study was conducted in 354 patients who underwent TKA in Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine from December 2019 to December 2022. Sociodemographic characteristics, anesthesia methods, Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK), numeric rating scale (NRS), hospital for special surgery (HSS), activities of daily living (ADL), and self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) were reviewed and analyzed. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the influencing factors of kinesiophobia, and a nomogram model was established based on the identified influencing factors and verified by consistency index (C-index), calibration curve, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Incidence of kinesiophobia in patients who received TEAS combined with western medicine (dexmedetomidine and remifentanil) was significantly lower than that in patients who received western medicine alone. The logistic regression analysis showed that family monthly income level, HSS, ADL, and combined TEAS and western medicine approach were independent protective factors for kinesiophobia (all P<0.05). The degree of pain and anxiety were independent risk factors for kinesiophobia (both P<0.05). A nomogram model was constructed with C-index of 0.721 (0.658, 0.784), and the area under curve (AUC) was 0.748 (95 %CI: 0.685-0.807). The calibration curve also showed good consistency between actual observations and nomogram model predictions. Family monthly income level, anesthesia methods, NRS, HSS, ADL, and SAS scores are influencing factors of kinesiophobia, and the nomogram model can be useful for predicting postoperative kinesiophobia.

Narrative nursing for negative emotions in patients with acute pancreatitis: Based on model construction and application.

Acute pancreatitis (AP), as a common acute abdomen disease, has a high incidence rate worldwide and is often accompanied by severe complications. Negative emotions lead to increased secretion of stress hormones, elevated blood sugar levels, and enhanced insulin resistance, which in turn increases the risk of AP and significantly affects the patient's quality of life. Therefore, exploring the intervention effects of narrative nursing programs on the negative emotions of patients with AP is not only helpful in alleviating psychological stress and improving quality of life but also has significant implications for improving disease outcomes and prognosis. To construct a narrative nursing model for negative emotions in patients with AP and verify its efficacy in application. Through Delphi expert consultation, a narrative nursing model for negative emotions in patients with AP was constructed. A non-randomized quasi-experimental study design was used in this study. A total of 92 patients with AP with negative emotions admitted to a tertiary hospital in Nantong City of Jiangsu Province, China from September 2022 to August 2023 were recruited by convenience sampling, among whom 46 patients admitted from September 2022 to February 2023 were included in the observation group, and 46 patients from March to August 2023 were selected as control group. The observation group received narrative nursing plan, while the control group was given with routine nursing. Self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), self-rating depression scale (SDS), positive and negative affect scale (PANAS), caring behavior scale, patient satisfaction scale and 36-item short form health survey questionnaire (SF-36) were used to evaluate their emotions, satisfaction and caring behaviors in the two groups on the day of discharge, 1-and 3-month following discharge. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 45 cases in the intervention group and 44 cases in the control group eventually recruited and completed in the study. On the day of discharge, the intervention group showed significantly lower scores of SAS, SDS and negative emotion (28.57 ± 4.52 vs 17.4 ± 4.44, P < 0.001), whereas evidently higher outcomes in the positive emotion score, Caring behavior scale score and satisfaction score compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Repeated measurement analysis of variance showed that significant between-group differences were found in time effect, inter-group effect and interaction effect of SAS and PANAS scores as well as in time effect and inter-group effect of SF-36 scores (P < 0.05); the SF-36 scores of two groups at 3 months after discharge were higher than those at 1 month after discharge (P < 0.05). The application of narrative nursing protocols has demonstrated significant effectiveness in alleviating anxiety, ameliorating negative emotions, and enhancing satisfaction among patients with AP.

Research on biomechanics integrated Bayesian network mental health diagnosis system

With the rapid economic development of various countries around the world and the acceleration of global networking, countries are striving to promote their own urbanization and industrialization progress. The side effect is that social pressure leads to the concentrated outbreak of various social contradictions. The main psychological health testing and evaluation method in society is still conducted through dialogue with psychologists. Doctors obtain information through dialogue and communication with patients, and diagnose their psychological status based on this information. Affected by factors such as communication style and the patient’s own mental state. The information obtained may result in omissions and biases, leading to inaccurate diagnostic results. Bayesian network is a probabilistic graphical model that derives the results through information calculation. It can analyze and calculate the finite and incomplete conditions, carry out corresponding reasoning, and obtain more rigorous results. This article applied the naive Bayesian algorithm to the research of mental health diagnosis systems, and compared it with mental health diagnosis systems that do not use algorithms. According to the mental health index of contemporary people, the algorithm achievement test experiment of mental health diagnosis system was carried out. After research and comparison, it was found that for the collected data, the maximum accuracy of the Naive Bayesian algorithm within a hundred calculations reached 99%, with a mean of 96.5%. The traditional paper-based psychological diagnosis method had a maximum accuracy of 89%, a minimum of 70%, and an average accuracy of 80.5%. Therefore, the application of naive Bayesian network to the development and research of mental health diagnosis system can effectively improve the efficiency, accuracy and diagnostic effect of mental diagnosis.

Subjective time dilation in abstinent patients with alcohol use disorder

ABSTRACT Introduction Patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD) may have distortions in time perception. This study investigated subjective time dilation (the tendency to perceive a time interval longer than it is) and its association with craving and impulsivity in AUD. Method Thirty abstinent male inpatients with AUD (age 29–60 years) and thirty sex-, age-, and education-matched healthy controls completed a temporal generalization task, which assessed the preference (point of subjective equality, PSE) and sensitivity of time perception in the second range. Craving for alcohol was assessed using the Alcohol Urge Questionnaire. Impulsivity was assessed using a delay discounting task and the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-11. A comprehensive battery of neuropsychological tests was used to measure executive function (flanker task, symbol digit modalities test, trail-making test-A/B), negative emotionality (Beck Depression Inventory-II, Self-rating Anxiety Scale), and incentive salience (monetary incentive delay task) following the Addictions Neuroclinical Assessment (ANA) framework. Results AUD patients exhibited a smaller PSE than healthy controls, perceiving a time interval 8% longer than it was. AUD patients with a smaller PSE showed a greater craving for alcohol but not greater impulsivity. Exploratory factor analysis incorporating the PSE and ANA measures revealed four latent factors. The PSE loaded highly onto a factor reflecting time perception but not three other factors reflecting executive function, negative emotionality, and incentive salience. Conclusions AUD patients exhibit a pathological form of subjective time dilation, which is associated with a greater craving for alcohol. Time perception may be an independent functional dimension for understanding addictive behaviors in AUD.

From infected to recovered: the mediating role of sleep quality between self-compassion, social support and COVID-19 psychosomatic symptoms.

Recent research has shown significant individual differences in COVID-19 psychosomatic symptoms. However, there has been a lack of studies investigating the influence of physical and psychological factors on these symptoms and their underlying mechanisms. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the predictive role of self-compassion and social support on COVID-19 psychosomatic symptoms, as well as the potential mediating role of sleep quality. Data were collected from 636 participants infected with COVID-19 during the early post-pandemic reopening phase in China. The measurement tools used in the current study included the Self-Compassion Scale, the Perceived Social Support Scale, Self-Rating Scale of Sleep, and a COVID-19 Psychosomatic Symptom Diary. A structural equation model revealed that: (1) social support directly predicts COVID-19 psychosomatic symptoms; (2) sleep quality fully mediates the relationship between self-compassion and COVID-19 psychosomatic symptoms; and (3) sleep quality partially mediates the relationship between social support and COVID-19 psychosomatic symptoms. These findings not only confirm previous research but also provide new insights into the intricate interplay between psychological and physical factors and their influence on COVID-19 psychosomatic symptoms. The implications of these findings may inform the development of targeted rehabilitation programs in the post-pandemic era of the "new normal". Not applicable.

Sling Results in Better Sleep Quality and Less Anxiety Early After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Randomized Single-Blinded Trial.

Sleep disturbance is commonly reported by patients wearing an abduction brace after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR). Although a sling has been proven noninferior to an abduction brace for function and repair integrity, there is no evidence-based medical support for the advantage of the sling in improving sleep quality compared with a brace. This study aimed to compare the effects of a sling and an abduction brace on sleep quality and clinical outcomes after ARCR. It was hypothesized that immobilization in a sling would result in better sleep quality while not deteriorating clinical outcomes and bone-tendon healing compared with an abduction brace. Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. A total of 142 consecutive patients with rotator cuff tears were randomly assigned to 2 groups: (1) the brace group, receiving abduction brace immobilization for 6 weeks, and (2) the sling group, receiving sling immobilization after ARCR for 6 weeks. The primary outcome was the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index at 6 weeks postoperatively. Secondary outcomes-American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, Self-rating Anxiety Scale, pain, satisfaction, and tendon healing (using ultrasonography)-were evaluated until 1 year postoperatively. Complete outcome measurements were obtained for 131 patients. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index at 6 weeks was 11.1 ± 2.7 for the brace group and 9.2 ± 2.3 for the sling group (P < .001), indicating a statistically significant advantage for the sling group. The sling group also reported significantly lower Self-rating Anxiety Scale, lower pain level, and higher satisfaction scores at 6 weeks. No significant difference was observed in outcome measures between groups at 1 year. The tendon healing rates (91% vs 88%, respectively) were comparable between the brace and sling groups within the first 1 year (risk ratio, 1.03 [95% CI, 0.92-1.16]; P = .59). The use of a sling resulted in better sleep quality, less anxiety, and higher satisfaction compared with an abduction brace in the first 6 weeks after ARCR; nevertheless, functional outcomes and repair integrity were similar at 1 year postoperatively between the 2 groups. These findings indicate that a sling is appropriate for the postoperative care of ARCR. However, caution should be used when interpreting these results because the clinical relevance of sling-related benefits warrants further investigation. ChiCTR2200059967 (Chinese Clinical Trial Registry).

How feasible is nutrition intervention research in eating disorders? Lessons learnt from a pilot parallel randomised controlled trial of tyrosine supplementation in adolescents with anorexia nervosa

ObjectiveEating disorders are complex illnesses with high morbidity and mortality. Yet, there is promising evidence to support the effects of nutrition on the brain and behaviour. One proposed example is the use of tyrosine as an adjunct treatment in anorexia nervosa (AN). However, recruitment and retention in eating disorder clinical trials has posed difficulties for researchers. The aim of this study was to pilot test a parallel randomised controlled trial (RCT) of tyrosine supplementation to explore the feasibility of recruitment and retention, intervention adherence and data collection methods from the perspective of participants and researchers.MethodFeasibility was assessed using numbers participating, questionnaire completion in patients and parent/carers completing and declining participation, a researcher implementation record and clinical measures. Subjects included adolescents aged 12–17 years with AN. The study was conducted over a 12-week period, with the intervention group receiving 5 mg of L-tyrosine supplement and the control group receiving a placebo.ResultsRecruitment targets were not met and recruitment to a full RCT based on the current study protocol and recruitment sites did not prove feasible. Of the 39 approached for RCT participation, seven were recruited to the RCT (18% response rate) despite extending recruitment periods, with 100% retained and analysed. Patients or parents/carers identified barriers to study participation including burden, the need to consume tyrosine as tablets, and the use of blood, urine and psychological testing. Blood tyrosine rose markedly for subjects in the intervention group. No side effects were reported or measured.ConclusionsThis study offers a unique exploration of the feasibility of a tyrosine trial in anorexia nervosa and is of relevance to assist the success of future nutrition trials. Exploring the suitability of future study designs for nutrition intervention research is warranted.

Cross-cultural validation of the Clinician-Administered PTSD scale for DSM-5, child and adolescent version in Japan

ABSTRACT Background: The establishment of a formal diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) for children and adolescents is the foundation for advancing pertinent clinical research and formulating proper treatment and management. However, a validated diagnostic tool for PTSD in children and adolescents is lacking in Japan. Objective: To examine the cross-cultural validity and reliability of the Japanese Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), child and adolescent version (CAPS-CA-5-J). Method: Overall, 73 children who had experienced potentially traumatic events were recruited from three medical facilities. The linguistically validated CAPS-CA-5-J was conducted by trained psychiatrists and psychologists. Additionally, children and their caretakers completed questionnaires such as the UCLA PTSD reaction index for DSM-5 (PTSD-RI-5), Depression Self-Rating Scale for Children (DSRDC), and Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ); 16 participants were randomly selected for the inter-rater reliability assessment. Results: Owing to missing values in the CAPS-CA-5-J and PTSD-RI-5, 68 children were included in the final analysis. Regarding reliability, the CAPS-CA-5-J showed excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha coefficient = 0.90) and interrater agreement (kappa coefficient = 0.88). Convergent validity was supported by a strong correlation between the total severity scale of the CAPS-CA-5-J and the PTSD-RI-5 scores (Pearson’s correlation coefficient = 0.82). Divergent validity was indicated by a moderate correlation between the CAPS-CA-5-J and DSRDC, and no correlation was found with the SDQ scores. Conclusions: This study is the first to validate a structured clinical interview for children and adolescents with PTSD in Japan. The psychometric properties of the CAPS-CA-5-J were good enough and comparable to those reported in previous validation studies. Therefore, the CAPS-CA-5-J can be considered reliable and valid for use in Japan.

Comparison of psychological personality tests and their potential use in translation studies

Psychological tests are widely used to assess personality traits and cognitive abilities. However, their potential application in translation studies remains largely unexplored. This overview article aims to compare psychological tests used in identifying personality traits and cognitive abilities that may enhance translators' skills. Personality tests can reveal psychological factors that may be crucial for effective translation. The psychological dimensions are often overlooked despite the acknowledged importance of linguistic and cultural proficiency in translation studies. Emotional responses and personality traits significantly impact translators' decisions and performance, highlighting the need for further research. Implementing tests like the MBTI, DISC, Big Five, and HEXACO Personality Inventory can offer valuable insights. Understanding translators' personality traits can enable strategies for improvement and enhance overall translation outcomes. Bridging the gap in research regarding psychological dimensions is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of translators' behaviors and improving translation quality.

Psychometric Hepatic Encephalopathy Tests and Electroencephalogram Results Among Cirrhotic Patients.

Background and Objectives: Patients with cirrhosis who seem normal during physical examinations may still have abnormalities in their electroencephalogram (EEG) or show pathological results in neuropsychological tests. This study aimed to investigate the progression of minimal hepatic encephalopathy, its effects on quality of life, its prognostic value, and its significance for daily functioning. Materials and Methods: This study involved 50 patients with confirmed cirrhosis (28 Child A, 12 Child B, 10 Child C) who were assessed for psychological symptoms and underwent several tests: the Minimal Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Letter Cancellation Test, the Digit Symbol Coding Test, and EEG. Results: showed that 40% of patients exhibited neuropsychiatric symptoms, with somatization being the most common at 96%. The MMSE revealed cognitive impairment in 48% of patients. In the Letter Cancellation Test (LCT) (total error), 80% of patients had organic disorders, and 24% showed affections with (LCT) (completion time). The Digit Symbol Coding Test results showed affection in 28% of patients. Significant EEG changes were observed in patients with Child C cirrhosis. Patients with portal hypertension (including varices and variceal bleeding), liver cell failure symptoms (such as ascites, lower limb edema, and bleeding tendency), as well as those who smoke, or obese, or have hyperlipidemia, all displayed notable EEG and psychological test abnormalities, making them more likely to develop hepatic encephalopathy. Conclusions: psychological testing and EEG changes are effective in detecting minimal hepatic encephalopathy, with a higher incidence in Child C patients compared to those in Child A and B.

Development of an assessment tool for collaborative problem-solving skills in chemistry

Collaborative problem-solving (CPS) skills are recognised as an essential aspect of 21st century skills and STEM education. In the STEM framework, students’ CPS skills in the learning process need to be appropriately monitored, yet assessment tools for students’ CPS skills are currently not widely developed in chemistry. This study aimed to develop and validate the assessment tool for measuring high school students’ collaborative problem-solving skills in chemistry (CPS-C). Fifty-two students participated in the assessment, which included tasks on Coke Titration, Fruit Battery, and Soap Making. The data were analyzed using Multidimensional Item Response Theory (MIRT) models and the Generalized Partial Credit Model (GPCM). The results indicated that the CPS-C tool showed good internal consistency and item fit. Additionally, ten students were interviewed, and the interview content was analyzed using MAXQDA, emphasizing the importance of providing clear and concise instructions, reducing the number of tasks, and offering meaningful and relevant options. Moreover, this study also validated the reliability of cognitive ability tests, mental load and effort tests, and interest and motivation tests. The results showed satisfactory reliability for all tests except for the mental load and effort tests, which had a lower reliability coefficient of 0.68. Despite some limitations, the CPS-C tool showed great potential for effectively assessing CPS skills. Further research is needed to validate the tool’s effectiveness and reliability across larger, more diverse samples and different cultural contexts.

The use of bedside case-based learning in the clinical practice of midwifery education in China

AimThis study aimed to investigate the impact of bedside case-based learning on critical thinking and capacity for self-directed learning in a group of midwifery students in China.BackgroundBedside teaching is a well-established educational tool to improve the clinical practice of medical, nursing, and midwifery students. A new pedagogical approach; bedside case-based learning (BCBL) is an interactive teaching approach involving small-group, student-educator discussion to describe the etiology and management of a patient case. This new approach has been gradually integrated into Chinese midwifery education programs to promote clinical problem-solving skills, knowledge application, teamwork, and collaboration.DesignA quasi-experimental pre-test-post-test group design.MethodsThis study used a quasi-experimental pre-test-post-test group design. A convenience sample of 67 third-year students majoring in midwifery at the university were prospectively enrolled in this study. Pre- and post-BCBL class surveys were conducted using the Self-Rating Scale of Self-Directed Learning (SRSSDL) and the Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory-Chinese Version (CTDI-CV) to assess changes in self-learning and critical thinking abilities before and after the intervention.ResultsFollowing bedside case-based learning, the total scores for self-directed learning capacity and critical thinking increased, although there were no statistically significant differences (P > 0.05).ConclusionsAlthough there were no statistically significant differences between pre- and post-test results, students’ self-assessed scores in self-directed learning and critical thinking improved between pre- and post-test.

A Clarified Examination of the Item Wording Effect: Item Valence (Good vs. Bad) Versus Semantic Framing (I Am vs. I Am Not).

The Item Wording Effect (IWE) in psychological testing describes how individuals respond differently to positively and negatively worded items. Previous IWE research faced challenges due to measures varying beyond item valence. This study aimed to address this problem by developing an inventory, the Positive and Negative Descriptor Inventory (PANDI), with items varying solely on valence. Semantic framing was manipulated to examine which factor (valence vs. framing) was more causal of the IWE. Using an online survey on Mechanical Turk, 336 Canadian participants responded to PANDI items in different experimental conditions. Results indicated that item valence had a bigger impact on IWE than semantic framing. PANDI-Good items in the Affirming Condition exhibited lower reliability but higher means and response variance than other groups, emphasizing the significant difference in how individuals interpret positive and negating inventory items. This study recommends using negatively worded items sparingly, and not using negating items at all.

Effects of the Interaction Between Time-on-Task and Task Load on Response Lapses.

To investigate the interaction effects of prolonged working periods and different task loads on response lapses, focusing on the mechanisms of delayed responses and error lapses. Professionals such as pilots, truck drivers, and nurses often face extended work hours and fluctuating task loads. While these factors individually affect performance, their interaction and its impact on response lapses remain unclear. Twenty participants completed the Uchida-Kraepelin (U-K) Psychological Test and a dual-task version with functional near-infrared spectroscopy. Independent variables were time-on-task and task load. Dependent variables included measures of fatigue, arousal, workload, task performance (delayed and error rates), and brain functional connectivity. Both time-on-task and task load significantly affected cerebral connectivity, response lapses, workload (frustration level), fatigue, and arousal. Arousal levels significantly decreased and reaction times increased after 60 min of work. Cognitive resource regulation became challenging after 90 min under high task load levels. A decline in the connection between the prefrontal and occipital cortex during high-load tasks was observed. The findings provide insight into the mechanisms of response lapses under different task load levels and can inform strategies to mitigate these lapses during extended work periods. This study's findings can be applied to improve work schedules and fatigue management in industries like aviation, transportation, and healthcare, helping reduce response lapses and errors during extended work periods under high task load conditions.

Moderated serial mediation effects of adaptation problems, academic stress, and interpersonal relationships on the sleep quality of early-year university students.

Due to heightened anxiety levels, sleep disorders become more prevalent among university students. This study, centered on adaptive capacity in early-year university students, aimed to explore the underlying mechanisms through which anxiety affects sleep quality. Between February 2023 and June 2023, a cohort of first- and second-year university students (mean age 18.8 years) from Hunan Province, China, took part in an online survey. Anxiety was assessed using the Self-rating Anxiety Scale; adaptation problems, academic stress, and interpersonal relationships were assessed using the Adolescent Self-Rating Life Events Checklist; and sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). A moderated serial mediation model, based on Hayes' Model 92, was used to assess the hypothesized model. The survey resulted in 3,490 valid responses. Among respondents, 24% exhibited anxiety symptoms and 30.4% showed abnormal sleep patterns (i.e., PSQI score ≥ 8). The most significant path identified based on indirect effects was anxiety (β = 0.109), adaptation problems (β = 0.183), academic stress (β = 0.081), and sleep quality (all p-values < 0.001). Furthermore, interpersonal relationships moderated the effects of adaptation problems (β = -0.015, p < 0.001), academic stress (β = -0.012, p < 0.001), and anxiety (β = 0.003, p = 0.002) on sleep quality. Elevated anxiety and sleep disorders are common among university students. Adaptive capacity may play a crucial role in sleep disorders among early-year university students. Interventions such as fostering strong interpersonal relationships in campus environments, may prove beneficial in improving academic performance and sleep quality.

The Impact of Hierarchical Chain Nursing Model on the Resolution Time of Fever and Cough in Children with Pneumonia

Objective: This study investigates the effects of a hierarchical chain nursing model on the resolution time for fever and cough in children diagnosed with pneumonia. Methods: Eighty children with pneumonia admitted to our hospital between March 2021 and January 2022 were enrolled in this study. The participants were divided into two groups: the observation group and the experimental group, each containing 40 patients, based on the nursing interventions provided. The observation group received standard nursing care, while the experimental group was treated with the hierarchical chain nursing model. We compared clinical outcomes, including the resolution times for symptoms (fever, cough, pulmonary rales), length of hospitalization, pulmonary function indicators [such as peak expiratory flow (PEF), functional residual capacity (FRC), and forced expiratory flow rate at 25% of vital capacity (FEF25%)], the mental health of family members, and their satisfaction with nursing care. Results: The total effective treatment rate was 77.5% in the observation group and 97.5% in the experimental group, with the latter significantly higher (P&lt;0.05). The duration of pulmonary rales and the length of hospitalization were significantly less in the experimental group (all, P&lt;0.05). Post-intervention, the levels of PEF, FRC, and FEF25% showed substantial improvement in the experimental group compared to the observation group (all, P&lt;0.05). Moreover, the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) scores for family members in the experimental group were significantly lower than those in the observation group (all, P&lt;0.05). Family satisfaction rates were 75.0% for the observation group and 97.5% for the experimental group, with the latter demonstrating significantly greater satisfaction with nursing care (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion: The hierarchical chain nursing model proves to be highly effective in managing pneumonia in children. This model not only enhances clinical outcomes and expedites the resolution of symptoms such as fever, cough, and pulmonary rales but also improves lung function and reduces psychological stress among family members. Consequently, this model significantly increases family satisfaction with nursing services.

Evaluation of tolerability and safety of transcranial electrical stimulation with gel particle electrodes in healthy subjects.

With the advancement of transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) technology, an increasing number of stimulation devices and treatment protocols have emerged. However, safety and tolerability remain critical concerns before new strategies can be implemented. Particularly, the use of gel particle electrodes brings new challenges to the safety and tolerability of tES, which hinders its widespread adoption and further research. Our study utilized a specially designed and validated transcranial electrical stimulation stimulator along with preconfigured gel particle electrodes placed at F3 and F4 in the prefrontal lobes. We aimed to assess the tolerance and safety of these electrodes in healthy subjects by administering different durations and types of tES. Each participant underwent ten sessions of either transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) or transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), with session durations varying. In the experiment, we collected various measurement data from participants, including self-report questionnaire data and behavioral keystroke data. Tolerability was evaluated through adverse events (AEs), the relationship of adverse events with tES (AEs-rela), the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), and the Visual Analog Mood Scale-Revised (VAMS-R). Safety was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), the Skin Sensation Rating (SSR), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and Stroop task. These data were analyzed to determine the impact of different parameters on the tolerability and safety of tES. There were no significant changes in the results of the MoCA and SAS scales before and after the experiment. However, significant differences were observed in VAS, SSR, AEs, and AEs-rela between tDCS and tACS. Additionally, fatigue increased, and energy levels decreased on VAMS-R with longer durations. No significant differences were found in other neuropsychological tests. Our study revealed significant differences in tolerability and safety between tDCS and tACS, underscoring the importance of considering the stimulation type when evaluating these factors. Although tolerance and safety did not vary significantly across different stimulation durations in this study, future research may benefit from exploring shorter durations to further assess tolerability and safety efficiently.

Abstract 4126895: Bridging the Gap in San Joaquin Valley LGBTQ+ Cardiovascular Disease and Mental Health Disparities

Introduction: LGBTQ+ adults experience discrimination and violence that lead to stressors in daily life. Homophobia affects the mental health of the growing San Joaquin Valley (SJV) LGBTQ+ community leading to psychological distress and mental health concerns which can further lead to High Blood Pressure (HBP) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). SJV has a growing rate of LGBTQ+ migrants from the Bay Area who may be at risk for psychological distress and CVD. With a diverse community of low income and minority groups, the lack of physicians do not represent the workforce of SJV. Objectives: Trainees conducted Kessler psychological distress tests, HBP and CVD screenings across college campuses and community events to reduce the risk of CVD and spread awareness about mental health, CVD and its implications in the LGBTQ+ population due to environmental racism in the most underserved region for health care, SJV. Methods: I trained and provided mentorship to medically ambitious diverse low-income high school to instill a passion in them to come back after their medical education to practice medicine and promote LGBTQ+ health equity in SJV. Students conducted weekly Kessler psychological distress tests, HBP screenings and serve as a health technology coach. Each student monitored 2 hypertensive and psychological distressed patients. Kessler psychological distress tests and CVD screenings were conducted at college campuses to spread awareness about LGBTQ+ mental health and heart health and track psychological distress and HBP in the LGBTQ+ community. Findings: -About 88% (98 of 112) experienced some form of discrimination from a health care professional -About 57% (64 of 112) of SJV LGBTQ+ population are at risk for CVD -About 14% (16 of 112) of SJV LGBTQ+ population are Stage 1 hypertensive -About 76% (83 of 112) of SJV LGBTQ+ population are at risk for hypertension and are psychologically distressed Direct Outcomes: -Youth learned the value of empathy and service to disadvantaged LGBTQ+ communities through the program and volunteering -LGBTQ+ empowerment and students are determined to pursue medicine and address community concerns -Awareness, education among LGBTQ+ community for better heart and mental health -Better understanding in how to manage and seek referral for mental health and health systems concerns -Students learned about SJV health disparities and applied precision medicine to their own health inequity projects in SJV -Improved LGBTQ+ patient provider trust

Electroacupuncture at acupoints of liver meridian for diminished ovarian reserve of liver depression: a randomized controlled trial

To observe the therapeutic effect of electroacupuncture at acupoints of liver meridian in patients with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) of liver depression. A total of 62 patients with DOR of liver depression were randomly divided into an electroacupuncture group (31 cases, 1 case discontinued) and a western medication group (31 cases, 1 case was eliminated). Electroacupuncture was applied at bilateral Taichong (LR 3), Ligou (LR 5), Ququan (LR 8), Jimai (LR 12) in the electroacupuncture group, with continuous wave, in frequency of 2 Hz and current of 0.5-1.0 mA, 30 min each time, once every other day, 3 times a week. Femoston was taken orally in the western medication group, oral estradiol tablets were taken for the first 14 days, followed by oral estradiol/progesterone complex tablets for the rest 14 days, 1 tablet a day. Both groups were treated for 3 consecutive menstrual cycles. Before and after treatment, the scores of TCM syndrome, self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) and self-rating depression scale (SDS) were observed, serum levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) were detected, and antral follicle count (AFC), peak systolic velocity (PSV) and resistance index (RI) of ovarian artery were measured by color Doppler ultrasound in the two groups, and the clinical efficacy was evaluated after treatment. After treatment, the scores of primary symptom and secondary symptom, as well as the total scores of TCM syndrome were decreased compared with those before treatment (P<0.01), the scores of SAS and SDS, as well as the serum FSH levels and RI of ovarian artery were decreased compared with those before treatment (P<0.01), while the serum AMH levels, AFC and PSV of ovarian artery were increased compared with those before treatment (P<0.05, P<0.01) in the two groups. After treatment, in the electroacupuncture group, the primary symptom score of TCM syndrome was higher than that in the western medication group (P<0.01), the secondary symptom score of TCM syndrome and the scores of SAS and SDS were lower than those in the western medication group (P<0.05, P<0.01). The total effective rate was 70.0% (21/30) in the electroacupuncture group and 73.3% (22/30) in the western medication group respectively, there was no significant difference in the total effective rate between the two groups (P>0.05). Electroacupuncture at acupoints of liver meridian can effectively improve the clinical symptoms, anxiety and depression, regulate the serum sex hormone levels, increase AFC and improve ovarian blood supply in DOR patients of liver depression.

Self-rating scale in self-directed learning in workplace context: a case study of Thai operational employees in the petrochemical plant industry

PurposeThis study addresses the need for a validated tool to assess self-directed learning (SDL) behaviors among Thai operational employees in the petrochemical industry. Understanding SDL capabilities is essential for effective human resource development, given the complexity of plant operations and the need for continuous skill enhancement.Design/methodology/approachThis research adapts the self-rating scale of self-directed learning (SRSSDL) to the Thai workplace context. The SRSSDL was translated into Thai and adapted for the workplace. Five experts validated the content, and validity and reliability testing was conducted with 50 operational employees from Thai petrochemical plants. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and Cronbach’s alpha were used to assess the instrument’s reliability and validity.FindingsContent validation confirmed that all SRSSDL items had an item-objective congruence (IOC) score above 0.5. CFA results showed a good model fit (comparative fit index [CFI] = 0.99, Tucker–Lewis index [TLI] = 0.98, root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA] = 0.02 and standardized root mean square residual [SRMR] = 0.02). Reliability analysis showed Cronbach’s alpha values from 0.91 to 0.96, indicating excellent internal consistency.Originality/valueThis research is the first study to assess and prove the content validity, construct validity and reliability of the SRSSDL in the context of Thai workplaces, particularly in the petrochemical industry. The SRSSDL is a reliable and valid tool for assessing SDL behaviors among Thai operational employees. It enhances human resource development by identifying SDL capabilities and fostering continuous improvement and SDL.