Rehabilitation Efforts Research Articles

Plantar sensory stimulation and its impact on gait and lower limb motor function in individuals with stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Stroke frequently leads to motor impairments, with almost half of the affected individuals experiencing diminished sensation, impacting their overall quality of life and autonomy. Rehabilitation efforts, however, often overlook somatosensory functions of the lower limbs. While plantar sensory stimulation activates receptors in the foot sole, its precise impact on the motor functions and gait of individuals with stroke is yet to be ascertained. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the effects of sensory interventions on gait and lower limb motor function in individuals with stroke. We searched eight databases from inception to December 2023 for randomized controlled trials that investigated sensory interventions targeting gait or lower limb motor function in stroke patients. The primary outcomes included changes in gait and motor function, reported as standardized mean differences (SMD) and assessed heterogeneity (I2). A total of [number] studies were included, covering different sensory modalities such as textured insoles, plantar vibration, and cognitive sensorimotor exercises. The interventions showed varying effectiveness, with plantar vibration therapy exhibiting a large effect size (SMD = 2.03 [1.13, 2.94]) for improving lower limb motor function, while textured insoles showed moderate effectiveness (SMD = 0.58 [0.24, 0.92]) with no heterogeneity (I2 = 0%). For gait, significant enhancement was seen with plantar vibration (SMD = 3.17 [2.05, 4.29]) and cognitive sensorimotor training (SMD = 2.85 [1.69, 4.02]). However, overall heterogeneity was moderate to high (I2 = 65% for motor function, 85% for gait), indicating variability across different studies and intervention types. The findings of this review and meta-analysis suggest that plantar somatosensory stimulation has the potential to improve lower limb motor function and gait in people with stroke. However, to firmly establish its efficacy as a rehabilitative tool, larger-scale and high-quality studies are requisite.

Decision support for evaluating performance and prioritizing rehabilitation of the water distribution network: a case study of Chelghoum-Laid, Mila City, Algeria

This research article explores the use of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) as a decision support tool for evaluating and rehabilitating the water distribution network in Mila City, Algeria. The study identifies key challenges, such as water loss, infrastructure deterioration, and inadequate service delivery. By employing AHP, the researchers systematically prioritize various performance indicators, including water quality, pressure, and operational efficiency. Data is gathered from field assessments and stakeholder interviews to develop a hierarchical model that reflects the network's critical factors. The findings demonstrate that AHP facilitates informed decision-making by allowing stakeholders to weigh different rehabilitation options effectively. The results indicate that targeted investments can significantly improve the system’s performance. The AHP method has revealed that the performance of the "network condition" criterion is around 36%, and the performance of the "customer complaint handling" criterion is 0.49, indicating that the network is in poor condition. On the other hand, the performance of the "physical-chemical quality of the distributed water" is approximately 80%. Overall, the performance of the distribution network is average at about 50%, suggesting the need for renovation to improve its efficiency and functionality. The study emphasizes the importance of integrating AHP into water management practices, suggesting that it can enhance the sustainability and reliability of water services in Mila City. The conclusions provide actionable recommendations for local authorities and utility managers to guide future rehabilitation efforts, contributing to improved water resource management in Algeria.

Mapping a Novel Metric for Flash Flood Recovery Using Interpretable Machine Learning

Abstract Flash floods are one of the most devastating natural disasters, yet many aspects of their severity and impact are poorly understood. The recession limb is related to postflood recovery and its impact on communities, yet it remains less documented than the rising limb of the hydrograph to predict the peak discharge and timing of floods. This work introduces a new metric called flash flood recovery or recoveriness, which is the potential for recovery of a watershed to preflood conditions. Using a comprehensive database of 78 years and supervised machine learning algorithms, flash flood recovery is mapped in the conterminous United States. A suite of geomorphological and climatological variables is used as predictors to provide probabilistic estimates of recoveriness. Slope index, river basin area, and river length are found to be the most significant predictors to predict recoveriness. Several new localized hotspots were identified, such as the western slopes of the Appalachians consisting of Kentucky, Tennessee, and West Virginia and the interlinked areas of western Montana and northern Idaho. This new metric can be useful for prioritizing relief and rehabilitation efforts as well as precautionary measures for disaster risk reduction.

Motor imagery technique for motor recovery of hand among sub-acute stroke patient: A randomized controlled trial

Stroke is the second leading cause of death globally, with a rising prevalence in line with increasing life expectancy. Hemiparesis, affecting up to 85% of stroke survivors, leads to impaired arm and hand movement, reduced strength, and limited coordination, significantly affecting daily activities. Despite rehabilitation efforts, many stroke survivors face persistent functional limitations or permanent disabilities. Intensive rehabilitation is often costly and constrained by the limited number of therapy sessions available in many centers. Therefore, strategies to enhance functional recovery while minimizing resource use are crucial. One promising approach is motor imagery (MI), a cognitive rehearsal of physical actions aimed at improving motor function. MI has been shown to activate similar brain areas as actual movement, such as the premotor cortex and supplementary motor area. While evidence supports MI's potential for enhancing motor recovery, clinical guidelines remain insufficient. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of motor imagery for improving hand function in subacute stroke patients. The primary objective is to assess the impact of MI on motor recovery using the Chedoke Arm and Hand Activity Inventory over a 4-week period.

User Perceptions and Conservation Practices: A Case Study of Maintenance Strategies at S. Bento Railway Station

Located in the heart of Porto, Portugal, the S. Bento train station is renowned worldwide for its architectural splendour and historical significance. Inaugurated in 1916, this UNESCO World Heritage Site presents stunning ceramic tile panels and architecture influenced by contemporary French design. This study presents a comprehensive historical analysis of the conservation state of S. Bento station, detailing observed anomalies, their origins, probable causes, and the maintenance and rehabilitation techniques employed over the years. Moreover, it explores the relationship between conservation practices and tourist perceptions of the station, focusing on how rehabilitation efforts influence user satisfaction. This analysis was carried out through a comprehensive sentiment analysis of over 4000 tourist reviews between 2011 and 2023, and data from the station management entity, providing insights into the effectiveness of these interventions. The research contributes to the broader discussion on heritage conservation, offering recommendations for future maintenance strategies that integrate user expectations and sentiment.

Key Mental Health Challenges: The Role of Health Policy After COVID-19

Background; The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly impacted global mental health, revealing vulnerabilities in healthcare systems and exacerbating issues such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Vulnerable groups, including healthcare workers, young adults, and children, faced heightened risks due to social isolation, economic uncertainty, and disruptions to daily life. These challenges emphasized the critical need for targeted interventions and systemic improvements in mental health care. Objective; This review aims to analyze the key mental health challenges emerging post-pandemic, evaluate the roles of government policies and community interventions, and propose evidence-based strategies for prevention and rehabilitation. Additionally, it highlights innovative solutions to address service gaps and promote resilience. Methodology; A narrative review methodology was employed, synthesizing data from peer-reviewed journals, organizational reports (e.g., WHO, OECD, UNICEF), and national datasets from 2019–2023. Key themes—mental health challenges, government roles, prevention strategies, and innovative interventions—were explored through qualitative and quantitative analyses. Selection criteria focused on mental health conditions exacerbated by the pandemic and policy responses at local and national levels. Conclusions; The pandemic underscored the importance of mental health as a public health priority. Effective interventions include integrating mental health into broader health policies, increasing funding, and promoting public awareness. Prevention strategies focusing on early detection, lifestyle interventions, and community support proved vital, while rehabilitation efforts such as family involvement, peer networks, and technological tools facilitated recovery. A multisectoral, evidence-based approach is essential to build resilient mental health systems capable of addressing future challenges.

Truth in Sentencing, Incentives and Recidivism

Abstract Parole was eliminated for many US offenders by Truth-in-Sentencing (TIS) laws in the 1990s. I exploit the introduction of TIS in Arizona to explore its impact on offenders before, during, and after incarceration. TIS Offenders were assigned significantly shorter sentences, largely eliminating the intended increase in punishment. These offenders reduced their rehabilitative effort while incarcerated, with rule infractions increasing by 22% and education enrollment falling by 24%. Finally, TIS offenders became 23% more likely to return to prison for a new conviction. I argue these effects were driven by TIS removing parole incentives, given that time served remained largely unchanged.

Analisis Hak Serta Rehabilitasi Nama Baik Korban Tindak Pidana Pencemaran Nama Baik Melalui Media Sosial

The rapid development of globalization today facilitates access to information circulating on social media, both positive and negative. This study examines the increasing cases of defamation in the digital age, focusing on legal protection aspects and rehabilitation efforts for victims. The purpose of this writing is to understand the role of the government and law enforcement authorities in addressing defamation offenses. Using a normative legal research method, it is concluded that: 1. To understand the forms of defamation offenses, 2. To determine the rights of victims of defamation. Protection and rehabilitation efforts for one's reputation are crucial in this era, considering the advancements in technology and the widespread occurrence of defamation.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa sepsis in a neonate Franciscana dolphin (Pontoporia blainvillei): clinical approach and laboratory findings

A neonate (4,2 kg and 71 cm total body length) female Franciscana dolphin, Pontoporia blainvillei, was found stranded alive on a beach in Santa Catarina, Southern Brazil, with respiratory signs (dyspnea, crackles during thoracic auscultation and changes in buoyancy) suggestive of pneumonia. Hand-rearing and rehabilitation efforts were unsuccessful, and the neonate died three days after it was rescued. Postmortem investigation was conducted using diagnostic imaging techniques, such as endoscopy and computed tomography. A complete necropsy and histopathology were performed, revealing bronchopneumonia as well as neutrophilic and discrete otitis media. A pure Pseudomonas aeruginosa culture was obtained from the blowhole, bronchoalveolar lavage, and blood using the API NE System. Our results indicate the cause of death to be related to bacterial sepsis. Further understanding of the main causes of death of Franciscana dolphin calves is warranted for conserving this threatened and understudied species. Keywords: bacterial septicemia, cetacean, otitis, pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, rehabilitation, stranding event

Plasma chemistry and hematology of Eastern Mediterranean Sea green turtles undergoing rehabilitation

Plasma chemistry and hematology of Eastern Mediterranean Sea green turtles undergoing rehabilitation

Integrating Hydrodynamic Modeling with Ecological Risk Assessment for Selecting Sites for Artificial Reef Deployment: Avoiding Coastal Pollution Risks in Kish Island, Persian Gulf

The decline of natural coral reefs has spurred interest in artificial reef construction and reef rehabilitation efforts. However, many restoration programs are failing because of poor water quality and localized pollution factors. This paper examines one etiology of coral restoration failure, highlighting the need for careful site selection based on hydrodynamic, biological, and pollution criteria. Using Kish Island as a case study, we outline a procedure for determining placement of artificial reefs to minimize external pollution impacts, which could be applied to any reef site worldwide. Our integration of computational modeling and geographic information systems enables the tracking of pollution dispersion and increases the power of restoration efforts. The RQ Plume modeling, used alongside compound pollutant modeling, can identify hotspots with the highest potential to degrade marine environments, particularly reefs. Conservation efforts should prioritize pollution mitigation, as seen in the case of sunscreen pollutants at Kish Island, where regulatory action and public education can contribute to reef protection. This comprehensive approach underscores the critical role of water quality in successful reef restoration and conservation strategies.

Perlindungan Hukum terhadap Anak Korban Eksploitasi Fisik, Sosial dan Seksual

The system that aims to protect the rights and welfare of children including the protection of minors. Children under age are often exposed to various types of violence, exploitation and discrimination. Therefore, various rules and regulations have been made to provide comprehensive protection. Law number 35 of 2014 concerning amendments to Law number 23 of 2002 concerning child protection regulates child protection in Indonesia. This law shows how important it is to protect children's rights, including the right to live, develop and be protected from violence. In addition, to deal with the problems faced by children, prevention and rehabilitation efforts are also very important. The game violates the law on child protection requires cooperation between the government, society, and non-governmental organizations. It is hoped that children can grow and develop in a safe and secure environment with strict supervision and law enforcement.

Impact of psychological stressors on natural killer cell function: A comprehensive analysis based on stressor type, duration, intensity, and species

Patients with natural killer (NK) cell deficiency or dysfunction are more susceptible to infections by Herpesviridae viruses, herpesvirus-related cancers, and macrophage activation syndromes. This review summarizes research on NK cell dysfunction following psychological stress, focusing on stressor type, duration, age of exposure, and species studied. Psychological stressors negatively affect NK cell activity (NKCA) across species. Prolonged stress leads to more significant decreases in NK cell number and function, with rehabilitation efforts proving ineffective in reversing these effects. Early life and prolonged stress exposure particularly increases the risk of infections and cancer due to impaired NKCA. The review also highlights that stress impacts males and females differently, with females exhibiting a more immunosuppressed NK cell phenotype. Notably, mice respond differently compared to humans and other animals, making them unsuitable for NK cell stress-related studies. Most studies measured NKCA using cytolytic assays against K-562 or YAC-1 cells. Although the exact mechanisms of NK cell dysfunction under stress remain unclear, potential causes include reduced release of secretory lysosomes with perforin or granzyme, impaired NK cell synapse formation, decreased expression of synapse-related molecules like CD2 or LFA-1 (CD11a), altered activating receptor expression, and dysregulated signaling pathways, such as decreased Erk1/2 phosphorylation and NFkB signaling.These mechanisms are not mutually exclusive, and future research is needed to clarify these pathways and develop therapeutic interventions for stress-induced immune dysregulation.

The Intersection of Traumatic Brain Injury, Substance Abuse, and Mental Health Disorders in Incarcerated Women Addressing Intergenerational Trauma through Neuropsychological Rehabilitation

The intersection of traumatic brain injury (TBI), substance abuse, and mental health disorders presents a significant challenge within the incarcerated female population, where rates of these conditions are alarmingly high. This paper explores the multifaceted relationships among TBI, substance abuse, and mental health disorders, emphasizing the impact of intergenerational trauma on this vulnerable group. Women in correctional facilities often experience a history of trauma, exacerbating their mental health challenges and increasing the likelihood of substance use as a maladaptive coping mechanism. The cumulative effects of TBI can further complicate their psychological and emotional well-being, leading to a cycle of trauma that is perpetuated across generations. Through a review of current literature and case studies, this paper advocates for the implementation of neuropsychological rehabilitation programs that address the unique needs of incarcerated women. Such interventions are crucial not only for improving individual outcomes but also for breaking the cycle of trauma that affects families and communities. Recommendations for policy reforms and future research directions are provided to enhance the efficacy of rehabilitation efforts and support the reintegration of these women into society.

Analysis of Sustainability Variables in Revegetation of Ex-Oil and Gas Mining Operation

Revegetation after petroleum mining operations is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires careful consideration of sustainability factors to ensure long-term success. PT Pertamina Hulu Rokan has taken its environmental responsibilities seriously and has restored ex-mining land through replanting efforts at ex-well sites, ex-production facilities, and ex-borrow pits. This is important for environmental sustainability, especially after mining oil and gas. This study aims to identify important variables in maintaining the sustainability of revegetation activities at PT Pertamina Hulu Rokan by describing the intensity of influence and interdependence between variables and grouping them from the most influential to the least influential. Focus group discussions (FGDs) were used to collect data, and the MICMAC approach was used to analyze the relationships between variables. This research has identified 13 ecological, socioeconomic, and conflict mitigation variables that are important in land revegetation activities. Based on the results, the relationships between these variables have been derived by highlighting the key indicators that trigger sustainable revegetation efforts, namely variables such as envreg, amdal, local business development (lbd), and relationship. The lbd variable strongly influences the welfare variable, amdal, and the other variables strongly influence the company's image. Post-mining land revegetation efforts at PT Pertamina Hulu Rokan demonstrate the company's commitment to environmental sustainability. By considering sustainability variables in the revegetation process after petroleum mining operations, PT PHR ensures that its rehabilitation efforts can restore land while promoting sustainable practices and providing benefits to local communities.

Evaluating the Quality-of-Life and Happiness Indices of Hydropower Project-Affected People in Pakistan: Towards a Sustainable Future

Worldwide, the development of massive hydropower projects is becoming more common, especially when it comes to attempts to mitigate environmental degradation and increase a nation’s energy capacity. People affected by projects (PAPs) are forced to relocate in order to support large-scale development initiatives, which puts their lives and livelihoods at jeopardy. In comparison to the value of infrastructure development, which is mostly reaped by distant stakeholders, it comes at a high cost. In relation to CSR/resettlement and rehabilitation programs carried out by construction corporations in Pakistan’s hydropower development, this study on the quality-of-life (QoL) and happiness indicators of PAPs is being conducted. The analysis of factors affecting happiness and other aspects of quality-of-life indicators, including job and livelihood opportunities, housing, health, infrastructure, social interactions, environmental sustainability, inclusion, equity, and diversity, is the goal of this study. Using a questionnaire survey approach, data were directly gathered from PAPs, and about 424 replies were obtained to help with the model’s development. Structural equation modelling has been applied in conjunction with multivariate statistical analysis to analyse data. The outcome demonstrates the essential connections between the concepts that were taught in light of human, social, environmental, physical, and economic problems. The results also show that project supporters’ relocation and rehabilitation efforts fell short of what was needed to improve the quality of people’s lives. As a result, a conceptual framework specifically tailored to the hydropower construction region has been created and verified to provide PAPs with a high-quality living environment.

Use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication Technology to Retrain Attention and Enhance Functional Communication Following Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: A Clinical Case Report

Purpose: This case report outlines the use of high-tech assistive technology in the form of an augmentative and alternative communication device to assess and treat a veteran with severe speech, language, and cognitive impairments status post severe blast injury. Method: The patient is a right-handed male Veteran of the United States Marine Corps who sustained catastrophic injury after stepping on a dismounted improvised explosive device. He presented to the outpatient clinic 4 years status post injury for continued speech, language, and cognitive interventions. Based on assessments and observations, the patient was diagnosed with spastic anarthria, probable apraxia of speech, aphasia, and attentional impairments. His functional communication was restricted to limited facial expression and eye movements interpreted by those who knew him well. This case reviews the detailed informal and novel assessment techniques and training methods used to implement high-tech assistive technologies as part of the rehabilitation plan designed to enhance functional communication. Results: Through systematic instruction and retraining visual and sustained attention, the patient was able to engage meaningfully with a high-tech device to increase functional personal choice when supported by a partner. Conclusion: This case demonstrates the role high-tech assistive technologies can play in the rehabilitation and functional communication efforts for persons with severe traumatic brain injury and cerebrovascular accidents.

Employment barriers questionnaire: Development and determination of its reliability and validity.

The high unemployment rate among people with disabilities (PWDs) can be attributed to barriers found in the work environment and demands of the job itself. Given the lack of comprehensive tools to identify these barriers, we developed the Employment Barriers Questionnaire (EBQ). The objective of this study was to develop and examine the EBQ's reliability and validity for detecting employment barriers and possible modifications to overcome them. Two stages were conducted: stage I was a cross-sectional design. Stage II included a cross-sectional and prospective design. Thirty-nine people with physical disabilities (mean age 47.21±10.78 years) were recruited, 51% of which were employed during data collection. During stage I, we developed a first version of the EBQ (EBQ.I) and evaluated its internal reliability. The EBQ.I was filled twice, one week apart to assess test-re-test reliability. Predictive validity was tested using a regression model to predict the employment status of stage II based on EBQ.I's results from stage I. In stage II, we generated a second version (EBQ.II) and tested its internal-reliability and known-groups validity, by comparing the EBQ.II's results between employed and unemployed subjects. The results showed that the EBQ.II has a high internal-reliability (α= 0.79-0.97) and a medium-large known-groups validity (-3.95≤Z≤-2.26, p < 0.05). Additionally, the EBQ.I has a high test re-test reliability (ICC = 0.85-0.94, p < 0.001) and predictive validity (β= 0.861, p = 0.033). This study has illustrated that the EBQ.II is a unique, reliable and valid tool for identifying employment barriers and modifications to address them, expected to improve vocational rehabilitation efforts.

Mathematical modeling and analysis of the co-dynamics of crime and drug abuse

This study explores the dynamics of crime and substance abuse within a population by developing a novel mathematical model that integrates social interactions, rehabilitation efforts, and relapse probabilities. The model introduces a critical metric, the control reproduction number \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$(\\mathscr{R}_j)$$\\end{document}, to quantify the invasion threshold for these behaviors. The findings reveal that the crime/substance-free equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable when \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\mathscr {R}_j\\le 1$$\\end{document}. At the same time, entrenched equilibria become stable where \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\mathscr {R}_j >1$$\\end{document}. Additionally, the model predicts the potential for a co-existent equilibrium where crime/substance abuse and a free state can coexist if all reproduction numbers exceed unity. Sensitivity analysis identifies key factors influencing \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\mathscr {R}_j$$\\end{document}, including behavioral transmission, internal progression rates, intervention efficacy, and recovery/relapse probabilities. Numerical simulations validate theoretical predictions regarding the stability of different equilibria, highlighting the critical importance of interventions targeting transmission reduction and rehabilitation efficiency. The research underscores the significance of understanding invasion dynamics for the coexistence of behaviors. It demonstrates the utility of mathematical modeling in elucidating the spread of social phenomena and informing effective control strategies.

The Role of Neuroinflammation in Shaping Neuroplasticity and Recovery Outcomes Following Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review.

Neuroplasticity and neuroinflammation are variables seen during recovery from traumatic brain injury (TBI), while biomarkers are useful in monitoring injury and guiding rehabilitation efforts. This systematic review examines how neuroinflammation affects neuroplasticity and recovery following TBI in animal models and humans. Studies were identified from an online search of the PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases without any search time range. This review has been registered on Open OSF (n) UDWQM. Recent studies highlight the critical role of biomarkers like serum amyloid A1 (SAA1) and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in predicting TBI patients' injury severity and recovery outcomes, offering the potential for personalized treatment and improved neurorehabilitation strategies. Additionally, insights from animal studies reveal how neuroinflammation affects recovery, emphasizing targets such as NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) and microglia for enhancing therapeutic interventions. This review emphasizes the central role of neuroinflammation in TBI, and its adverse impact on neuroplasticity and recovery, and suggests that targeted anti-inflammatory treatments and biomarker-based personalized approaches hold the key to improvement. Such approaches will need further development in future research by integrating neuromodulation and pharmacological interventions, along with biomarker validation, to optimize management in TBI.