Search Results (50)

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates (1) the effectiveness of psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) using psilocybin and ketamine for psychosocial symptoms in adults with cancer, (2) contextualizes findings with non-randomized and exploratory studies of other psychedelics, and (3) examines the role of therapeutic frameworks in shaping outcomes. We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, and EMBASE (2000–2024) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized studies investigating psychedelic agents in cancer populations. Meta-analyses pooled RCTs of psilocybin or ketamine using random-effects models. Non-randomized studies were synthesized narratively. Risk of bias and evidence certainty were assessed via Cochrane ROB 2.0, NIH Before–After tool, and GRADE. Eleven placebo-controlled RCTs and four single open-label studies were included. Meta-analysis of four ketamine RCTs (n = 354) showed large, rapid effects on depression/anxiety (Hedges’ g = −1.37, 95% CI: −2.66 to −0.08; I² = 92%). Three psilocybin RCTs (n = 101) showed a large effect of psilocybin on alleviating depression (Hedges’ g = −3.13, 95% CI: −10.04 to 3.77; I² = 95%). MDMA and LSD trials suggested promise but lacked rigor. PAT may offer meaningful relief for cancer-related distress, though effects vary by therapeutic model and context. Oncology-specific trials are needed to standardize and scale for implementation. Full article

Background/Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic and related public health measures significantly disrupted daily life, with profound consequences for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Young adults with ASD faced unique challenges due to disruptions in routines, employment instability, limited access to essential services, and increased social isolation. While some individuals benefited from reduced social pressures and the adoption of remote work, many experienced heightened anxiety, behavioral difficulties, and declines in autonomy. This systematic review examines the impact of the pandemic on young adults with ASD, focusing on key domains such as autonomy, employment, service accessibility, socialization, emotional regulation, and overall well-being. Methods: This review followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, and its protocol was pre-registered in the PROSPERO database. A search was conducted in four databases—PubMed, Scous, Web of Science, and PsycInfo—as well as in specialized journals in the field. Results: Eight studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final synthesis. The findings highlight significant disruptions in daily life, increased dependence on caregivers, and difficulties in maintaining structured activities. However, technology-assisted interventions, including virtual therapies and remote work opportunities, played a role in mitigating some adverse effects. Conclusions: Despite the heterogeneity in methodologies, this review underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions to support young adults with ASD during crises. Future research should focus on long-term consequences and developing inclusive policies that enhance resilience, access to services, and social integration. Full article

Background/Objectives: Heart failure assistance is strictly correlated with the concept of palliative care. Supportive treatment should be part of the heart failure patient pathway from the beginning. Palliative care with interprofessional effective collaboration could be an important resource used to reduce heart failure distressing symptoms and improve quality of life. Nurses, as professionals with a holistic vision of care, play a crucial role in palliative care introduction and implementation. The aim was to explore nurses’ attitudes and perceptions of heart failure palliative care, updating and adding knowledge to the current evidence. Methods: A systematic mixed-method review following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology was undertaken. The screening of articles, data extraction and quality appraisal were performed by more than one author. The search was undertaken in May 2024 and applied to PubMed, Cinahl, Embase, Web of science, PsycInfo, Cochrane library and Scopus. A convergent integrated approach allowed us to combine qualitative and quantitative data. The analysis and synthesis of results was guided by the Theoretical Domain Framework. Results: Of the 1048 records identified, 26 met the inclusion criteria. Twelve framework domains were completed with data extracted. A flow chart was elaborated to offer an overview of the main concepts included. Conclusions: Numerous behaviors and elements influenced heart failure palliative care implementations. Analysis has shown that each analyzed element was strictly correlated one with another. When implementation was possible, outcome improvement sustained palliative care benefits with the direct involvement of nurses as educators and coordinators. Full article

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an early childhood and lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder. Many studies have confirmed that motor skills and physical activity interventions can improve motor development in ASD individuals and ultimately improve their quality of life. However, systematic evidence is lacking on whether motor skills and physical activity interventions improve motor development among children with ASD. Methods: A systematic search of the CNKI, PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases was conducted for publications through 30 July 2023. Citation tracking and reference tracking were also used, and this study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) reporting guidelines. Results: Of 8908 studies initially retrieved, 57 met the selection criteria and were evaluated. The overall quality of the evidence, assessed using PEDro, was low. The evaluated studies included 1622 children with ASD, among which 517 were males, from level II to IV, and ranging in age from 3 to 17 years. Five types (physical activity interventions, motor skill interventions, hippotherapy, equine-assisted or simulated horse riding interventions, exergaming interventions, and physical education interventions) of motor development interventions were used, and 57 studies achieved some positive results for improvements in motor development among children with ASD. Furtherly, eight studies reported motor development acquisition, retention, or transfer. Children with ASD learn well from different types of instructors, including teachers, coaches, camp counselors, physical therapists, and peers. Conclusions: Motor skills and physical activity interventions improved motor development among children with ASD, the effect of which would continue until the end of the interventions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Suicide accounts for 1.4% of global deaths, and the slow-acting nature of traditional treatments for suicide risk underscores the need for alternatives. Psychedelic therapies may rapidly reduce suicide risk. This systematic review evaluates impact of psychedelic therapies on suicide-related outcomes. Methods: A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and ClinicalTrials.gov was conducted up to November 2024. Results: Four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluated suicidality as a secondary outcome or safety measure, showing significant reductions in suicidal ideation with psilocybin (three studies) and MDMA-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT; one study). Effect sizes, measured by Cohen’s d, ranged from =0.52 to 1.25 (p = 0.01 to 0.005), with no safety issues reported. Five additional RCTs assessed suicidality as a safety measure, showing reductions in suicidal ideation with psilocybin (two studies) and MDMA-AT (three studies; p = 0.02 to 0.04). Among 24 non-randomized and cross-sectional studies, results were mixed. Psilocybin (three studies) reduced suicidal ideation, with odds ratios (OR) of 0.40–0.75. MDMA-AT (five studies in PTSD patients) had a pooled effect size of d = 0.61 (95% CI: 0.32–0.89). LSD (six studies) showed increased odds of suicidality, with odds ratios ranging from 1.15 to 2.08. Studies involving DMT (two studies) and multiple psychedelics (three studies) showed mixed results, with DMT studies not showing significant effects on suicidality and studies involving multiple psychedelics showing varying outcomes, some reporting reductions in suicidal ideation and others showing no significant change. Conclusions: The effect of psychedelic therapies on suicide-related outcomes remains inconclusive, highlighting the need for further trials to clarify safety and therapeutic mechanisms. Full article

Background: Evidence indicates that pediatric burns are a significant form of trauma. They affect not only children but also their parents, who often experience short- and long-term psychopathological symptoms. The body of knowledge on the impact of hospitalization on parents has expanded; however, there is a dearth of evidence on the dynamics of parental relationships, parental experiences, and how these experiences affect their parenting. Objectives: This study aims to map and summarize the available literature on the repercussions of trauma associated with pediatric burns and hospitalization on parental and family dynamics. Methods: A scoping review will be carried out in accordance with the JBI methodology, based on the PCC. Studies involving hospitalized children (up to the age of 18) who have suffered accidental burns and their parents or caregivers will be included. The literature study will examine the effects of pediatric burn-related trauma on family and parental dynamics, emphasizing interventions and adjustment strategies that support children and families affected by this injury. Studies related to hospital settings and returning home will be included and analyzed by two independent reviewers using a standardized form developed for this study. The databases consulted will be Academic Search Complete, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PubMed/Medline, Collection of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences (via EB-SCO), PsycInfo, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Web of Science (Clarivate). Results: The results will be summarized narratively, presented in tables or diagrams, to highlight key findings related to parental experiences with burned children, the trauma associated with this episode, and its impact on parenting. In addition, strategies developed within the framework of the care partnership will be highlighted. Conclusions: Understanding how family dynamics change after a child suffers a burn injury and goes through the hospitalization process is crucial for nurses to improve their practice. We hope that this review will promote partnership-oriented, family-centered nursing practice in the care of child burn victims and their families, as well as assist in the identification of knowledge gaps in the literature and potential areas for future research and development. Full article

Introduction. In women, smoking during pregnancy and the postpartum period has important consequences for maternal and infant health, and interventions to assist smoking cessation during this period are essential. Although smoking has been associated with the presence of mental health problems, few studies addressing the factors associated with perinatal smoking have examined the role of stress. The aim of this review was to identify the relationships between the presence of stress and smoking during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Method. A literature search of the PsycInfo, Pubmed and Web of Science databases was carried out to identify relevant articles published between January 2013 and June 2024. A total of 15 studies that met the inclusion criteria were selected for review. Results. Twelve of the studies analysed the relationship between stress and smoking during pregnancy, two studies involved the postpartum period, and one study included both periods. Diverse instruments were used to assess stress, although the PSS-14 was the most commonly used. Eleven of the studies found a relationship between stress and smoking in the perinatal period, with stress being a predictor of smoking. Conclusions. The findings highlight the need to consider stress management when developing effective interventions to help women quit smoking during pregnancy and maintain abstinence in the postpartum period. Full article

Introduction: Hospitalisation and prolonged length of stay is associated with deconditioning that risks adverse outcomes after discharge. Less is known about the psychological impact on older people after hospital discharge. The purpose of this systematic review was to elucidate factors contributing to psychological stress in older patients post-discharge to inform better discharge planning. Methods: A systematic search for studies reporting poor discharge outcomes in older people between 2010 and 2022 was performed in Medline, CINAHL, and PsycINFO. Search terms were ‘older patients > 65 year’, ‘post-discharge’, ‘psychological distress’, ‘loneliness’, ‘anxiety’, ‘depression’, and ‘length of hospital stay’. Exclusion criteria included COVID-19 disease, dementia (±severe cognitive impairment), individuals aged <65, and those under palliative care services. Results: A total of 1666 records were identified, of which 878 were excluded as they were outside of our date limits or were not written in the English language, 681 were excluded after application of exclusion criteria, and 699 were excluded because of insufficient details. A total of 31 duplicates were removed, leaving 38 articles that were assessed for eligibility; 7 of these reports were found suitable, comprising 1131 patients. Three highly relevant themes identified relating to post-discharge outcomes were social isolation, lack of support, depression and anxiety. Older patients with a tendency toward depressive symptoms had an increased likelihood of death. Conclusions: It appears that the discharge process from hospital fails to address psychological factors that permit a successful transition from hospital. Pre-discharge screening of psychological symptoms and coping ability may assist in identifying older patients who are at risk of mental as well as subsequent physical deterioration. Better knowledge of positive and negative predictors of a successful transition from hospital to home would enable more holistic, effective, and inclusive discharge planning processes for older adults. Full article

Background and Objectives: Animal-assisted therapies have been utilized in various profiles to improve people’s quality of life. This systematic review aims to assess the impact of dog-assisted therapies (DAT) on children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The benefits provided, the feasibility of implementation, and potential limitations are analysed. Methods: An exhaustive search was carried out in the following databases: Web of Science (WoS), Scopus, ERIC, PubMed, PubPsych, CINAHL, PsycInfo and Dialnet. The procedure was preregistered on PROSPERO. Results: This review included 19 scientific articles. Of these, 84% suggest that DAT has a positive impact on communication and social interaction during the development of children and adolescents diagnosed with ASD. The dog is often perceived as a communication facilitator that serves as a reinforcer, capturing the individual’s attention. Emotional benefits have also been reported, including reducing stereotyped and self-harming behaviours. Additionally, an increase in smiling frequency and self-esteem levels was observed. Conclusions: These findings highlight the potential of DAT as a component of socio-educational intervention for children and adolescents diagnosed with ASD. However, further research is necessary due to the limited sample sizes in the studies reviewed. Full article

Background/Objectives: Psychoeducation is a specialized form of psychological education aimed at helping people suffering from psychological problems and their families. To investigate the efficacy of psychoeducation interventions (PEIs) in improving both the burden and quality of life of caregivers and the health conditions of their adolescent or youth patients. Methods: The following databases were used: PubMed, PsycInfo, CINAHL Plus with full text, Medline and Nursing Reference Center Plus. Two search strings were developed, one for the mental health conditions of assisted patients and the other one for caregivers. Results: We selected 30 articles and applied two differentiated meta-analyses on 12 of them to evaluate the effectiveness of PEIs. We highlighted a statistically significant superior efficacy of PIEs compared to control groups in five studies in the meta-analysis of studies on caregiver outcomes, and eight studies in the meta-analysis of studies on outcomes of patients cared for. Conclusions: PEIs were shown to be effective in reducing symptoms and hospitalizations in persons cared for, improving their quality of life as well as that of their caregivers. Regarding the caregiver’s care burden, our review suggests that PEIs generally improve burden in caregivers, reducing the perception of their workload in caring for adolescent or youth persons. Full article

Background/Objectives: Elder abuse, and more specifically financial exploitation, is expected to be a major problem in modern societies as the worldwide population is getting older. Neuropsychological protocols regarding financial capacity assessment are the only available window allowing us to view the cognitive–emotional–behavioral strengths/deficits and vulnerabilities of individuals. Given the paucity of relevant research in Greece in the most vulnerable individuals such as older adults suffering from neurocognitive disorders (NCDs), this systematic review attempts to investigate whether NCDs impair financial capacity and to highlight the most important factors that can predict financial incapacity in Greek older patients and the likelihood of financial abuse. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in Embase, PsycINFO, and PubMed. Results: The search identified n = 21 relevant research articles. The synthesis of available evidence supports that financial incapacity is clearly demonstrated in the group of Greek older adults suffering from NCDs of different severity and etiology; thus, such changes can assist diagnosis, treatment, and care of these individuals, but the implications for elder abuse in the Greek cultural context have not been examined in detail so far. Conclusions: Given the unique source of information that neuropsychological assessments represent by revealing the importance of factors such as arithmetic cognition and relevant brain volume changes in the left angular gyrus, depressive mood, apathy, frailty, vascular risk factors, and financial illiteracy, forensic neuropsychology can play a vital role in protecting older individuals from financial abuse. Full article

The purpose of this review was to synthesize the available literature on breast cancer-screening barriers, facilitators, and interventions among U.S. African immigrants. Following the integrative review framework and PRISMA guidelines for reporting systemic reviews, five electronic databases were searched: PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Medline, and Google Scholar. Studies were included if they were published in English language journals after 1 January 2000 and reported data on breast cancer-screening barriers, facilitators, or interventions among U.S. African immigrants. Barriers and facilitators reported by studies were descriptively examined and synthesized by two authors and classified as aligning with one of the three levels of influences based on the social–ecological model (intrapersonal, interpersonal, and community). Interventions promoting breast cancer screening were narratively summarized. Search procedures retrieved 1011 articles, with 12 meeting the criteria for inclusion in the review (6 qualitative and 6 quantitative). Intrapersonal barriers included limited awareness, fear of pain, language barriers, health concerns, transportation issues, costs, and negative past experiences. Interpersonal barriers involved modesty, spiritual beliefs, and lack of support, while community-level barriers included provider and healthcare-system challenges. Regarding facilitators, past screening experiences and health insurance were the most commonly reported intrapersonal facilitators. The only interpersonal facilitator identified was observing other women experience a breast cancer diagnosis and undergo treatment. Community-level facilitators included appointment reminders, scheduling assistance, culturally congruent interpreters, transportation to screening facilities, and patient navigators. Three articles reported outcomes of breast cancer-screening interventions. All three were pilot studies and reported increased knowledge and attitudes regarding breast cancer screening following the respective interventions. One study examined the uptake of breast cancer screening following the intervention, with results indicating an increase in screening. Findings provide a comprehensive synthesis of factors influencing breast cancer screening among African immigrants and highlight the need for future research on the topic. This review was registered with Prospero (CRD42024502826) before the initiation of search procedures. Full article

Objectives: This review aims to explore recent advancements in optical imaging techniques for monitoring the viability of Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) flap reconstruction. The objectives include highlighting the principles, applications, and clinical utility of optical imaging modalities such as near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence angiography, laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI), hyperspectral imaging (HSI), dynamic infrared thermography (DIRT), and short-wave infrared thermography (SWIR) in assessing tissue perfusion and oxygenation. Additionally, this review aims to discuss the potential of these techniques in enhancing surgical outcomes by enabling timely intervention in cases of compromised flap perfusion. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify studies focusing on optical imaging techniques for monitoring DIEP flap viability. We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, and relevant databases, including Google Scholar, Web of Science, Scopus, PsycINFO, IEEE Xplore, and ProQuest Dissertations & Theses, among others, using specific keywords related to optical imaging, DIEP flap reconstruction, tissue perfusion, and surgical outcomes. This extensive search ensured we gathered comprehensive data for our analysis. Articles discussing the principles, applications, and clinical use of NIRS, ICG fluorescence angiography, LSCI, HSI, DIRT, and SWIR in DIEP flap monitoring were selected for inclusion. Data regarding the techniques’ effectiveness, advantages, limitations, and potential impact on surgical decision-making were extracted and synthesized. Results: Optical imaging modalities, including NIRS, ICG fluorescence angiography, LSCI, HSI, DIRT, and SWIR offer a non- or minimal-invasive, real-time assessment of tissue perfusion and oxygenation in DIEP flap reconstruction. These techniques provide objective and quantitative data, enabling surgeons to monitor flap viability accurately. Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of optical imaging in detecting compromised perfusion and facilitating timely intervention, thereby reducing the risk of flap complications such as partial or total loss. Furthermore, optical imaging modalities have shown promise in improving surgical outcomes by guiding intraoperative decision-making and optimizing patient care. Conclusions: Recent advancements in optical imaging techniques present valuable tools for monitoring the viability of DIEP flap reconstruction. NIRS, ICG fluorescence angiography, LSCI, HSI, DIRT, and SWIR offer a non- or minimal-invasive, real-time assessment of tissue perfusion and oxygenation, enabling accurate evaluation of flap viability. These modalities have the potential to enhance surgical outcomes by facilitating timely intervention in cases of compromised perfusion, thereby reducing the risk of flap complications. Incorporating optical imaging into clinical practice can provide surgeons with objective and quantitative data, assisting in informed decision-making for optimal patient care in DIEP flap reconstruction surgeries. Full article

In an increasingly mobile world, the integration of immigrants and displaced individuals is an important factor in creating cohesive and inclusive societies. Integration has different dimensions; this scoping review examines the conceptualization and measurement of economic integration among immigrants and refugees in the United States. Quantitative peer-reviewed journal papers measuring or conceptualizing the economic integration of first-generation documented adult immigrants or refugees in the United States, as well as relevant conceptual or theory papers on this topic, were included in the review. The search strategy included an online search of the Web of Science Core Collection, PsycINFO, Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts (ASSIA), and EconLit. Additional search strategies included scanning the reference lists of studies identified as relevant in the initial database search. An analysis of 72 studies included in the review using a data extraction table reveals seven key domains of economic integration: income and economic security, employment and occupational categories, assets and use of financial services, neighborhood and housing, health, education, and use of public assistance. Income and economic security emerged as the most common indicators of integration in the reviewed studies. Notably, less than half of the reviewed publications had a multidimensional approach to defining or measuring economic integration, and the majority of studies were focused on immigrants, with a smaller proportion dedicated to refugees. This review emphasizes the need for comprehensive frameworks in assessing economic integration among immigrants and refugees, reflecting the multifaceted nature of their economic integration experiences. Full article

(1) Background: Anxiety disorders are among the most common psychiatric conditions and have a rising prevalence. Patients with anxiety disorders can, however, be deterred from seeking treatment due to associated stigmas and medication side effects. Evidence indicates that promising digital health solutions to address those concerns reside in the growing field of extended reality (XR). The limited literature synthesis from the perspectives of patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs) regarding the experiences and effectiveness of XR-based anxiety disorder therapies motivated the undertaking of this systematic review. (2) Methods: A systematic search of the literature was conducted according to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines on the following databases: CINAHL, APA PsycNet and PubMed. The search was completed on 23 January 2024 with no restriction on the time of publication. Studies were screened based on a predetermined selection criteria relevant to the research aims. (3) Results: Five studies fulfilled the inclusion requirements. The majority investigated the use of XR tools for individual therapy and indicated that they can be as effective for patients as traditional methods and can aid in HCPs’ therapeutic tasks. (4) Conclusions: XR-based anxiety disorder therapies are generally perceived as immersive and with minimal side effects by patients, while HCPs mostly consider XR tools as practical and assistive. However, refinements with the XR setup could further improve the experience. Such modalities represent potent drug-free alternatives or supplements to traditional therapy and could be considered for remote, individual care. The findings’ generalisability requires further research into more conditions within the anxiety disorder group, as well as larger sample sizes. Full article