Series Of Activities Research Articles

Association between autistic features and empathy in Chinese patients with chronic schizophrenia.

It is common for patients with schizophrenia to exhibit symptoms of autism. Both autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia share similar patterns of empathy deficits. This study purposed to explore the association between autistic features and empathy in Chinese patients with chronic schizophrenia. We enrolled 857 patients with chronic schizophrenia. The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological 7 Status (RBANS), and Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI) were employed to assess the participants' clinical symptoms, neurocognition, and empathy, respectively. The severity of autistic symptoms was assessed with the PANSS Autism Severity Scale (PAUSS), with PAUSS scores ≥ 30 were considered to have significant autistic features. 114 schizophrenia patients (13.3%) had autistic features. Compared to schizophrenia patients without autistic features, those with autistic features had more severe clinical symptoms, and poorer neurocognition and empathic abilities. Female sex and empathic concerns were independently associated with autistic features in patients with chronic schizophrenia. Our results suggest that autistic features tend to manifest quite commonly among patients with chronic schizophrenia. Empathy deficits are strongly associated with autistic features in patients with chronic schizophrenia, strengthening the view that autistic features may characterize a subgroup of schizophrenia patients.

Measuring the empathy levels among pharmacy students: a journey toward enhancing effective communication and understanding in the pharmacist-patient relationship

BackgroundEmpathy is an essential skill for healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, because it improves person-centered care and treatment outcomes. Measuring the level of empathy among pharmacy students gives an understanding and insight into their readiness for incorporating a person-centered practice in their future work. This study aimed to assess empathy levels among Jordanian pharmacy students and explore the factors influencing these levels.MethodsA cross-sectional study using a web-based survey was conducted among currently enrolled pharmacy students from various academic years at both public and private Jordanian universities. The survey consisted of three sections; demographics, the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI) to identify pharmacy students’ empathy level, and items specifically related to the pharmacist-patient relationship. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS software. Multiple linear regression was used to reveal the factors affecting students’ empathy.ResultsA total of 396 pharmacy students participated in the current study, with a mean age of 21.65 years (SD = 2.865), and about three-quarters were female (73.5%). The mean IRI score for the students was 70.89 (SD = 12.82), with subscale means as follows: perspective-taking (18.52), fantasy (17.05), empathic concern (20.16), and personal distress (15.16). Students’ age, gender, awareness of the term empathy, and studying empathy at universities were among the factors that significantly affected the students’ empathy scores.ConclusionThe present study reveals moderate empathy levels among Jordanian pharmacy students and sheds light on an understudied aspect within the pharmacy practice in Jordan. Significant demographic and educational factors affected the pharmacy students’ empathy levels. Incorporating empathy education in pharmacy curricula can better prepare pharmacy students for person-centered care.

Identification of differentially expressed miRNAs involved in vascular aging reveals pathways associated with the endocrine hormone regulation

Vascular aging refers to a series of processes where the elasticity of blood vessels diminishes, leading to stiffening, and deposition of fat components on the vessel walls, causing inflammation. Cardiovascular diseases, such as stroke and hypertension, play significant roles in morbidity and mortality rates among the elderly population. In this study, the Reactive Hyperemia Index (RHI) was measured to assess vascular endothelial function and aging-induced pathogenesis of vascular diseases in Korean subjects. We aimed to identify extracellular vesicle microRNAs (EV-miRNAs) with differential abundance between groups of individuals at the ends of a continuum in vascular aging acceleration, revealing miRNAs regulating genes in endocrine hormone regulation and tumor-related pathways. We also discovered that the principal component characterizing the global miRNA expression profile is significantly associated with clinical traits including cholesterol levels. Together, these data provide a foundation for understanding the role of miRNAs as modulators of longevity and for developing age-specific epigenetic biomarkers.

Study anti-viral drugs for their efficiency against multiple SARS CoV-2 drug targets within molecular docking, molecular quantum similarity, and chemical reactivity indices frameworks

The study focused on drug discovery for COVID-19, emphasizing the challenges posed by the pandemic and the importance of understanding the virus’s biology. The research utilized molecular docking and quantum similarity analyses to explore potential ligands for SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. Docking Results Docking outcomes for various ligands, including Oseltamivir, Prochloraz, Valacyclovir, Baricitinib, Molnupiravir, Penciclovir, Famciclovir, Lamivudine, and Nitazoxanide, were presented. Interactions between ligands and specific residues in the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase were analyzed. Reactivity Descriptors Global parameters, such as electronic chemical potential, chemical hardness, global softness, and global electrophilicity, were computed for the ligands. For the local reactivity descriptors, the Fukui Functions were used. Fukui functions, representing electrophilic and nucleophilic sites, were calculated for selected ligands (Valacyclovir and Penciclovir). Nucleophilic character assignments for specific molecular regions were discussed, providing insights into potential charge-donating interactions. Results and Discussion Challenges in COVID-19 drug discovery, such as virus mutability, rapid evolution, and resource limitations, were summarized. Progress in vaccine development and the need for ongoing research to address variants and breakthrough cases were emphasized. Overlap Operator Analysis Higher MQSM between Lamivudine and Molnupiravir (0.5742) indicates structural and electronic similarity. Lowest MQSM between Oseltamivir and Prochloraz (0.2233) implies structural dissimilarity. Coulomb Operator Analysis Higher MQSM between Lamivudine and Molnupiravir (0.9178) suggests both structural and electronic similarity. Lowest MQSM between Baricitinib and Famciclovir (0.6001) indicates greater structural diversity. Measurements above 0.5 in Table 3 suggest electronic similarity, emphasizing the electronic aspects in molecular analysis. In this sense, it study employed a multi-faceted approach combining molecular docking, quantum similarity analyses, and chemical reactivity assessments to explore potential drug candidates for COVID-19. The findings provide valuable insights into ligand interactions, reactivity patterns, and the challenges associated with drug discovery in the context of the global pandemic.

The Influence of Lower-Limb Strength and Power on the Speed and Heat Results of Professional Brazilian Surfers.

To correlate speed and heat scores with anthropometric variables and lower-limb strength and power in professional surfers. A total of 19 men participated in simulated competitions on different days. All surfed waves were scored, and each athlete's best 2 were used for their total heat score. Speed values were extracted by global positioning system and adjusted by Z score. Squat jump, countermovement jump, and drop jump were executed. Anthropometric variables and 1-repetition maximum (1RM) in the half squat were measured. Pearson product-moment correlation was used to analyze the relationships. Height had a significant (P < .05) inverse association with speed indicators (r = -.36 to - .68), and body mass index had a moderate association with maximum wave speed of the highest score. Significant correlations with moderate to large magnitudes were found between maximum speed and vertical jumps (r = .46 to .56), average speed and vertical jumps (r = .48 to .59), and both maximum and average speed with 1RM (r = .52-.53). Athletes' best score and total heat score showed moderate to large associations with vertical jumps and 1RM (r = .48-.64), whereas second scores were correlated with the reactive strength index of the drop jump (r = .48) and 1RM (r = .51). Shorter surfers with lower center of gravity and those with superior lower-limb strength and power achieved greater speed and higher scores. Accordingly, surf coaches may consider prescribing dynamic strength and balance training based on an athlete's profile to improve performance.

Investigating the Factor Structure of the Japanese Version of the Interpersonal Reactivity Index

Investigating the Factor Structure of the Japanese Version of the Interpersonal Reactivity Index

Density Functional Theory Rationalization of the Mechanism, Selectivity, and Role of Substituents in Au(I)-Catalyzed Synthesis of Pyrazolines and Dihydropyridines.

A comprehensive theoretical investigation into the gold-catalyzed synthesis of polysubstituted pyrazolines and dihydropyridines from imines and methyl phenylpropiolate was conducted in this study. Three imines with distinct substituents were selected as model reactants. The computational outcomes reveal that four-membered intermediates generated from aza-enyne metathesis significantly affect the reaction selectivity. For nitrogen-centered NHCO2Me substituents (series A), an outward ring opening occurs during the metathesis of the aza-alkyne. This leads to the formation of Z-butadiene intermediates and ultimately to pyrazoline products. Conversely, with an aromatic substituent at the nitrogen site (series B and C), an inward ring opening takes place. This results in E-butadiene intermediates and the synthesis of dihydropyridine derivatives. The dihydropyridine product's configuration is determined by the aromatic ring's substituent. Electron-donating groups tend to directly form 1,4-dihydropyridine through a 6π electrocyclization (series B). In contrast, strong electron-withdrawing substituents initially undergo azayne metathesis, followed by 6π electrocyclization to produce 1,2-dihydropyridine products (series C). Furthermore, the distinctive selectivities were investigated in depth using global reactivity index and distortion/interaction methods. This research may contribute to the design of more effective and selective protocols to access pyrazolines, dihydropyridines, and related compounds.

Correlation Between Maximal Eccentric and Isometric Multi-Joint Lower-Extremity Strength and Vertical Jumping Performance in Young Adults

Maximal eccentric (MES) and isometric (MIS) muscle strength may enhance vertical jump performance by facilitating preloading and reducing energy loss during the eccentric (ECC) phase of the stretch-shortening cycle (SSC). However, the contributions of ECC and isometric (ISO) strength to the countermovement (CMJ) and depth jump (DJ) remain unclear due to variability in assessment methods (e.g., dynamometry, isometric mid-thigh pull) and the limited range of metrics examined in prior research. The aim of this study was to assess correlations between multi-joint lower extremity MES and MIS, obtained using a seated multi-joint isokinetic dynamometer, and 13 vertical ground reaction force (GRF) measures derived from the performance of three maximal effort DJs and CMJs. Twenty-five healthy young adults participated in this study (age = 21.9 ± 2.9 years). Pearson r correlation coefficients were used to assess the statistical significance (α = 0.05) of the relationships between absolute (N) and body mass normalized (BN) maximal strength measures and vertical jumping metrics. Moderate-to-strong positive correlations were identified between MES and MIS with broad performance metrics in CMJ and DJ, including reactive strength index (r = 0.45–0.53, p &lt; 0.05), modified reactive strength index (r = 0.41–0.62, p &lt; 0.05), and jump height (r = 0.59–0.75, p &lt; 0.05). Moderate-to-strong positive correlations were also observed between MES and MIS with CON work (r = 0.58–0.71, p &lt; 0.05) and CON peak power (r = 0.44–0.71, p &lt; 0.05) for both the CMJ and DJ. In contrast, moderate-to-strong negative correlations were observed between MES and MIS with ECC work (r = 0.42–0.62, p &lt; 0.005) and ECC peak power (r = 0.45–0.60, p &lt; 0.05). These findings suggest that enhanced neuromuscular efficiency and joint stiffness in stronger musculature reduce energy absorption during the eccentric phase, minimizing mechanical deformation and preserving elastic energy for concentric propulsion. Combined, MES and MIS optimize force application, energy utilization, and control, which are crucial for maximizing jump height. These findings underscore the role of MES and MIS in influencing jumping performance across both the ECC and CON phases of the SSC. This insight is valuable for practitioners designing training programs aimed at improving vertical jumping ability.

Exploring aggressive emotions in women in prison: the role of empathy and perceived social support in moderating the effects of childhood discrimination experiences

BackgroundThe recent increase in the population of women in prison within the societal context of China has shifted attention towards understanding the unique psychological and social dynamics distinct from those traditionally associated with man offenders. Growing evidence suggests that childhood experiences of discrimination play a crucial role in shaping the aggressive behaviors observed among women in prison. This underscores the necessity for an in-depth examination of the psychological and societal foundations of these behaviors.ObjectiveThis study seeks to elucidate the roles of empathy and perceived social support (PSS) in moderating the effects of childhood discrimination on aggression among women in prison. It aims to provide insights that could inform effective intervention and prevention strategies. Participants and Setting: The study involved 411 women in prison from correctional facilities across two provinces in China. Data were collected through paper-based surveys distributed from May to June 2024.MethodsParticipants responded to the Everyday Discrimination Scale, Interpersonal Reactivity Index, Perceived Social Support Scale, and Aggression Questionnaire. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlations, analysis of variance, and parallel multiple mediation models. These analyses were conducted using SPSS and a PROCESS macro to test statistical hypotheses.ResultsResults demonstrated significant associations between high levels of childhood discrimination and increased aggressive emotions and behaviors in adulthood. Mediation analysis indicated that both affective empathy and PSS significantly mediated these relationships. Affective empathy was found to intensify emotional responses leading to aggression, while PSS acted as a buffering mechanism that mitigated these adverse outcomes.ConclusionsThe findings highlight the pivotal moderating roles of empathy and social support in the aggression dynamics observed among women in prison, influenced by early experiences of discrimination. The study advocates for targeted interventions that enhance empathic abilities and bolster social support networks to reduce aggression and aid in rehabilitation. These insights foster the development of nuanced approaches to addressing the needs of women in prison and have significant implications for policy and practice in correctional and rehabilitative settings.

Does Targeting CPP at CPPopt Actually Improve Cerebrovascular Reactivity? A Secondary Analysis of the COGiTATE Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract Background The 'CPPopt-Guided Therapy: Assessment of Target Effectiveness' (COGiTATE) randomised controlled trial demonstrated the feasibility and safety of targeting an automated cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) tailored to optimize cerebrovascular autoregulation (CPPopt) in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) requiring intracranial pressure management. The average values of the autoregulation index known as the pressure reactivity index (PRx) were not different between the intervention (CPP target = CPPopt) and control (CPP target = 60–70 mmHg) groups of the trial. This secondary analysis was performed to investigate whether: (1) in the intervention group, PRx was closer to PRxopt (PRx at CPPopt) values, indicating a more preserved reactivity, as opposed to in the control group; (2) in the intervention group, patients experienced lower hourly PRx when CPP was close to the CPPopt-based target. Methods We analyzed data from the 28 and 32 patients randomized to the control and intervention groups of the COGiTATE study, respectively. We compared hourly averaged ΔPRx (PRx minus PRxopt, where PRxopt is PRx at CPPopt) between the two groups, focusing on periods of globally preserved/homogeneous autoregulation (negative PRxopt). For each patient in the intervention group, PRx values in periods when ΔCPP (CPP minus CPPopt target) was between −5 and + 5 mm Hg were compared to values in periods when ΔCPP was outside this range. Results The median ΔPRx was significantly lower in the intervention group for negative PRxopt (Mann–Whitney U-test, p &lt; 0.001). For each patient in this group, the median PRx was lower in periods when CPP was close to the CPPopt-based target (Wilcoxon test, p &lt; 0.001). Conclusions Despite no statistically significant difference in the grand mean PRx, our results suggest that targeting CPPopt does provide a way of improving cerebrovascular reactivity in patients with TBI, offering a rational intervention for trials that address this issue. We also bring insight into aspects of the PRx/CPP relationship that should be considered for autoregulation-guided management for future clinical protocols and trials design.

Thermal decomposition of wheat straw pellets in a nitrogen environment: Characterization Using Thermogravimetric Analyzer

This experiment used a thermogravimetric (TG) analyzer within a nitrogen environment, investigating the thermal degradation patterns of wheat straw pellets (WSP) under temperatures ranging from 31 to 800°C and varying heating rates (5, 10, and 20 °C/min). Two pellet types were considered: T1 (100% wheat straw) and T2 (70% wheat straw, 10% sawdust, 10% bentonite clay, and 10% biochar). This study comprehensively analyzes WSP’s thermal degradation, emphasizing model selection, composition effects, heating rate, and temperature. Results highlighted higher volatile matter content and calorific value in WSP. Model-free methods were applied to analyze TG/DTG profiles, revealing three distinct zones in WSP thermal decomposition: drying, devolatilization, and carbonization. Devolatilization, especially its 1st and 2nd steps, was extensively examined, with a significant mass loss (approx. 65%) observed between 150 and 550°C. Higher heating rates induced a shift in thermogravimetric profiles to elevated temperatures. Maximum mass loss rates during devolatilization ranged from 4.41 to 16.28%/min for T1 and 4.0 to 15.9% for T2 pellets. Temperature significantly influenced mass loss and reaction rates, whereas heating rates had a negligible impact. Thermodynamic properties indicated equilibrium reactions during pyrolysis for both T1 and T2 pellets. Additionally, increasing heating rates correlated with an upward trend in the reactivity index. The findings contribute valuable knowledge for optimizing biomass utilization in combustion and pyrolysis processes.

Bioenergy and bioexergy analyses with artificial intelligence application on combustion of recycled hardwood and softwood wastes

Novel biomass bioenergy-bioexergy analyses via thermogravimetry analysis and artificial intelligence are employed to evaluate the three biofuels from wood wastes (softwood-SW, hardwood-HW, and woods blend-WB). The chemical characterization of SW has the highest bioenergy (higher heating value – HHV: 18.84 MJ·kg-1) and bioexergy (specific chemical bioexergy – SCB: 19.65 MJ·kg-1) with the SCB/HHV ratio of wood waste as about 1.043-1.046. The high C-element has a significant influence on the HHV-SCB. The SCB/HHV ratio of wood waste is recognized as about 1.043-1.046. The three distinct zones of wood waste combustion are identified: moisture evaporation (Zone I, up to 110 °C), combustion reaction – degradation of three major lignocellulosic components (hemicelluloses, cellulose, and lignin) at Zone II, 110-600 °C, and ash remains (Zone III, 600-800 °C). The ignition (Dig=0.01-0.04) and fuel reactivity (Rfuel=3.82-6.97 %·min-1·°C-1) indexes are evaluated. The comprehensive combustion index (Sn:>5×10-7%2·min-2·°C-3) suggests that wood waste has a better combustion performance than bituminous coal. The statistical evaluation presents that the highest HHV-SCB values are obtained by performing combustion for SW-250 μm at 15 °C·min-1. The S/N ratio and ANOVA results agree that the wood waste type and particle size denote the most influential parameters. The artificial neural network prediction shows an excellent result (R2=1) with 1 hidden layer and 5 neuron configurations.

Smaller Formats of Volleyball Lead to Greater Improvements in Lower Limb Strength and Power, As Well As Reductions in Landing Forces: A Randomized Controlled Study in Girls.

The purpose of this study was to compare the adaptations in muscular strength, power, and landing forces of young female volleyball players enrolled in two experimental programs: one using smaller formats of the game (SFG) and the other using larger formats of the game (LFG), with a third group serving as a control. This study employed a randomized controlled design, with an 8-week intervention period and pre- and post-intervention evaluations. Fifty-six trained/developmental participants (age: 14.7 ± 0.5 years) voluntarily participated in this study. Each experimental group received additional training twice a week. The SFG group participated in 2v2 and 3v3 formats on smaller courts (covering 2/6 of the court's available zones) with a regular net, while the LFG group played in 4v4 and 5v5 formats on larger courts (covering 4/6 of the court's available zones). Assessments were conducted using force platforms and included the following tests: (i) isometric mid-thigh pull test (IMTP), measuring peak force; (ii) squat jump test (SJ), measuring peak force; (iii) countermovement jump test (CMJ), measuring peak power and landing force; and (iv) drop jump test (DJT), measuring the reactive strength index. Significant differences emerged post-intervention across all outcomes (p < 0.05). The SFG exhibited significantly greater IMTP peak force compared to both the LFG (p = 0.012) and control groups (p = 0.035). Additionally, the SFG showed significantly greater SJ peak force than the LFG (p = 0.036) and control groups (p = 0.023). Regarding CMJ peak power, significantly higher values were observed in the SFG compared to the LFG (p = 0.042) and control groups (p = 0.046). Moreover, the SFG had significantly lower CMJ peak landing force than both the LFG (p = 0.049) and control groups (p = 0.046). Finally, RSI was significantly higher in the SFG than in the LFG (p = 0.046) and control groups (p = 0.036). This study highlights the significant benefits of incorporating 2v2 and 3v3 SFG formats to enhance muscular strength, power, and landing forces in young female volleyball players, contrasting with less effective outcomes observed with 4v4 and 5v5 LFG formats, suggesting potential neuromuscular advantages crucial for improving volleyball performance.

Therapeutic potential of diosgenin against methotrexate-induced testicular damage in the rat.

This study evaluated diosgenin effects on methotrexate-induced testicular injury in the rats. A single dose of methotrexate (MTX) (20mg/kg, i.p) was administered, followed by two weeks of diosgenin treatment via gavage starting one day before methotrexate injection. Testicular damage was evaluated through histological examination of seminiferous tubules, as well as analysis of serum testosterone level, oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers, and antioxidant levels. The results of this study showed that in the MTX-exposed group, oxidative stress indices of malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitrite and indices of inflammation consisting of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) have a significant increase compared to the control group. Additionally, reductions were observed in antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH). In addition, testosterone level decreased and signs of testicular damage were observed in the MTX group. Conversely, in the group treated with diosgenin alongside MTX at a dosage of 50mg/kg, there was a significant decrease in oxidative stress markers (MDA, ROS, nitrite) and inflammatory markers (TNFα and IL-6). Moreover, there was a significant increase in the levels of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GSH). Diosgenin appears to have the potential to protect testicular tissue from damage caused by the toxic effects of MTX through the reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation.

Evaluation on reactivity of fly ash from different sources in alkali activated system-progressing environmentally construction through waste utilization

Fly ash, a byproduct of coal-fired thermal power stations, is among the most intricate artificially produced substances. The challenge of its suitable disposal has emerged as both an ecological issue and a squandering of potentially resources. Fly ash has good pozzolanic activity and contains reactive Al and Si components, it has the potential to dissolve under alkaline conditions to form a dense green gel, i.e. alkali activated binder. But, the widespread implementation of fly ash from different sources in generation of products is constrained by the heterogeneity of raw-material supply. In this work, physical performances, chemical-compositions, microstructures, element distribution, crystal structure, chemical-bonds, glassy content, as well as existence form of glassy-phases of eleven fly ashes sourced from different province in China were investigated via FESEM-EDS, XPS, XRD-Rietveld, FTIR, TEM NMR analysis. Then, a reactivity index of fly ash (R value) that concerned the effects of both initial state, particle morphology, internal composition was proposed. R value has been demonstrated to exhibit high predictive accuracy (R2 = 0.81–0.93) for predicting the strengths development of alkali activated products prepared with different activator modules, especially at early period. A further eleven literature datasets were utilized to validated against the accuracy of the predictions. R value facilitates an effective evaluation of fly ashes' fitness for fabricating high-strength alkali activated composites.

Distinct Patterns of Socioemotional Dysfunction Relate to Aggressive Versus Nonaggressive Rule-breaking Antisocial Behaviors in Behavioral Variant Frontotemporal Dementia.

Antisocial behaviors occur in up to 91% of individuals with behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD). Prior work has shown that antisocial behaviors can be differentiated into aggressive and nonaggressive rule-breaking behavioral subtypes. Socioemotional dysfunction is common in bvFTD and unique compared to other types of dementia. To determine whether socioemotional dysfunction relates to general antisocial behaviors in individuals with bvFTD, or whether different types of socioemotional dysfunction relate to aggressive versus rule-breaking behaviors. Informants for 28 participants with bvFTD and 21 participants with Alzheimer disease (AD) completed the Social Behavior Questionnaire (SBQ) and the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI). The SBQ measures the presence and severity of 26 antisocial behaviors, including subscales for aggressive behaviors (SBQ-AGG) and nonaggressive rule-breaking behaviors (SBQ-RB). The IRI measures cognitive and emotional empathy capabilities, including subscales for Empathic Concern (IRI-EC) and Perspective-taking (IRI-PT). As expected, participants with bvFTD had higher scores on the SBQ in total than participants with AD, as well as on the SBQ-AGG and SBQ-RB separately. Participants with bvFTD had lower scores on the IRI-EC and IRI-PT than participants with AD (P < 0.0001 for all measures). Lower scores on the IRI-PT correlated with higher scores on the SBQ-AGG-but not with higher scores on the SBQ-RB-across the combined group of participants (P = 0.007), and within participants in the bvFTD group (P = 0.01) specifically, after controlling for covariates of age, sex, dementia severity, and IRI-EC scores. Lower scores on the IRI-EC correlated with higher scores on the SBQ-AGG-but not with higher scores on the SBQ-RB-across the combined group of participants (P = 0.02) after controlling for covariates of age, sex, dementia severity, and IRI-PT scores. Our results suggest that socioemotional dysfunction relates to antisocial behaviors in individuals with bvFTD, but that the mechanisms leading to aggressive and rule-breaking behaviors are differentiable, providing meaningful implications for distinct approaches to treatment and prevention.

Prediction model for elastic modulus of recycled concrete based on properties of recycled coarse aggregate and cementitious materials

The supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) are commonly used in recycled coarse aggregate (RA) concrete to improve the performance of RA concrete or reduce the amount of cement used. However, the diverse sources and compositions of RA and SCMs pose a challenge for predicting the elastic modulus of concrete containing both RA and SCMs. In this study, the main influencing factors on the elastic modulus of recycled concrete were analyzed, and the statistical significance of the influencing factors on the elastic modulus was quantitatively analyzed using factor analysis techniques, either individually or in interaction. The results of the factor analysis reveled that the content of recycled coarse aggregates and the reactivity index of the cementitious materials have the most significant impact on the elastic modulus, followed by the water absorption of recycled coarse aggregates and the ratio of aggregates to cementitious materials (A/C). Furthermore, the interaction between A/C ratio and the content of recycled coarse aggregates, as well as the interaction between the water absorption and the content of recycled coarse aggregates, were also found to be significant influencing factors on the elastic modulus. A unified prediction model for elastic modulus was proposed by considering the hydraulic and pozzolanic activities of OPC and SCMs, performance and content of recycled coarse aggregate simultaneously, based on a statistical analysis of the experimental database. The statistical fitting results indicted that the elastic modulus can be accurately predicted using proposed model, thus promoting the application of recycled aggregate and green binder in structures.

The Effects of 11+ Dance on Physiological Parameters in Adolescent Ballet Dancers: A Randomized Controlled Equivalence Trial.

Introduction: The use of neuromuscular interventions in sports induce meaningful motor performance in strength, sprint and power. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of the "11+ Dance" exercise program versus normal training (control) on possible adaptations in power, lower-body strength, and inter-limb asymmetry in adolescent ballet dancers. Study Design: Prospective randomized controlled trial. Methods: Dancers (n = 76) from a pre-professional ballet school volunteered for this study. Data from the two trials (pilot and main trials) were combined to protect the results from possible learning effect of the intervention. Participants were randomly assigned to either the 11+ Dance intervention (n = 38) or Control (n = 38). Participants completed at least 21 sessions over 7-9 weeks. The 11+ Dance intervention consisted of neuromuscular-based exercises, whereas the Control group carried out their normal routine. Baseline and post intervention outcome measures included countermovement jump (CMJ), reactive strength index (RSI), isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP), and inter-limb asymmetry (ASYM). Results: Non-statistically significant improvements were noted for both 11+ Dance and control groups across outcome measures; CMJ F(1, 66) = 3.52, P = .065, = .051 (14% vs 8%), RSI F(1, 65) = 1.02, P = .316, = .015 (6% vs 13%), and IMTP F(1, 67) = 1.7, P = .197, = .025 (23% vs 18%). ASYM (F[1, 63] = .109, P = .743, = .002) (24% vs 15%). No statistically significant interaction for adherence was revealed for all the parameters. Conclusion: The 11+ Dance intervention elicited similar physiological adaptations as the Control group. Larger longitudinal studies are needed to investigate the efficacy of the 11+ Dance on injury incidence and severity as current evidence suggests prophylactic programs such as the 11+ Dance have an effect on injury prevention.

Tracking Changes in Physical Performance and Match Outputs in Elite Female Field Hockey Players Over an Olympic Cycle: A Follow-Up Study

This research aimed to analyse the physical performance and game-related statistics of 17 international female hockey players across an Olympic cycle, exploring whether these metrics changed synchronously. Data from 24 physical performance tests and 102 matches, monitored with 10 Hz GPS units, were evaluated. Minimal variability was observed in the 30 m sprint performance (Coefficient of Variation, CV = 2.3 ± 0.8%), while the greatest variability was found in pull-up tests (CV = 35.8 ± 12.1%). Significant temporal improvements were noted in the YoYo test (p &lt; 0.001), and sprint times for 10m and 30m distances (p &lt; 0.001 for both). Strength, muscular endurance, and neuromuscular metrics also enhanced significantly over time (p &lt; 0.008). Reactive Strength Index (RSI), improved over time (p &lt; 0.008), but none of the values differed significantly from the first test. On average, players covered 5469 ± 1159 m per match, with no significant change in high-speed running distance (637 ± 246 m) across the five years. However, the average running speed did increase (114 ± 13 m.min−1 ;p&lt; 0.001). The findings elucidate the performance benchmarks for elite female hockey players and suggest that advancements in individual performance tests do not necessarily correlate with match statistics, underscoring the complexity of athletic progression and its implications for player management.

Empathic disequilibrium in schizophrenia: An individual participant data meta-analysis

Schizophrenia involves substantial social difficulties, yet their nature remains unclear. Although empathy has been considered a promising social cognition construct, inconsistent findings have undermined its usefulness as a stable index for schizophrenia. This may be because previous studies overlooked the interdependency between the emotional and cognitive components of empathy. In this study, we investigated whether empathic disequilibrium, the intrapersonal imbalance between emotional and cognitive empathy, could be a meaningful schizophrenia marker. We conducted an individual-participant data meta-analysis, systematically searching the literature for studies involving participants with schizophrenia who completed the Interpersonal Reactivity Index, a validated empathy measure. Using emotional and cognitive empathy to capture empathic disequilibrium and the joint effect of cognitive and emotional empathy, we employed polynomial regression with response surface analysis to predict schizophrenia diagnosis and symptoms. Our analysis comprising ten studies (N = 1,080), revealed a non-linear association with the joint effect of cognitive and emotional empathy, as well as an association with empathic disequilibrium, suggesting emotional empathy overabundance, strongly and consistently predicted schizophrenia diagnosis. Additionally, empathic disequilibrium towards cognitive empathy overabundance was related to greater positive symptoms. The results suggest that empathic disequilibrium provides a stable behavioral marker related to schizophrenia, surpassing the utility of empathy alone. The findings deepen our understanding of schizophrenia phenomenology and can advance clinical and research practices.