Search Results (775)

The rapid rise of short-form video platforms such as TikTok and Instagram Reels has transformed digital engagement by promoting fragmented, high-tempo swiping behaviors and intense sensory stimulation. While these platforms dominate daily use, their impact on higher-order cognition remains underexplored. This study provides preliminary behavioral experimental evidence that even brief exposure to short-form video environments may be associated with reduced cue-based task preparation, a specific subcomponent of proactive cognitive flexibility. In a randomized between-subjects design, participants (N = 72) viewed either 30 min of TikTok-style content, a neutral documentary, or no video (passive control), followed by a task-switching paradigm with manipulated cue–target intervals (CTIs). As expected, the documentary and control group exhibited significant preparation benefits at longer CTIs, reflected in reduced switching costs—consistent with effective anticipatory task-set updating. In contrast, the short video group failed to leverage extended preparation time, indicating a selective disruption of goal-driven processing. Notably, performance at short CTIs did not differ across groups, reinforcing the interpretation that reactive control remained intact, while proactive preparation was selectively impaired. These findings link habitual “swiping” to disrupted task-switching efficiency—a phenomenon summarized as swiping disrupts switching. These findings suggest that short-form video exposure may temporarily bias attentional regulation toward stimulus-driven reactivity, thereby undermining anticipatory cognitive control. Given the widespread use of short-form video platforms—especially among young adults—these results underscore the need to better understand how media design features interact with cognitive control systems. Full article

This study aimed to compare isometric strength, range of motion (RoM), and strength ratios of shoulder internal and external rotators between female volleyball and hand ball players Twenty-five volleyball players (age = 21.8 ± 4.8 years, height = 178.5 ± 7.1 cm, mass = 69.3 ± 7.7 kg) and twenty-four handball players (age = 19.5 ± 2.9 years, height = 169.7 ± 6.4 cm, mass = 67.6 ± 8.4 kg), all competing in the Slovenian 1st national league, participated. Maximal isometric strength and passive RoM of internal and external rotation were measured bilaterally using a handheld dynamometer and goniometer, respectively. A significant group × side interaction was observed for internal rotation RoM (F = 5.41; p = 0.024; η² = 0.10), with volleyball players showing lower RoM on the dominant side (p = 0.001; d = 0.89), but this was not the case for handball players (p = 0.304). External rotation strength also showed a significant interaction (F = 9.34; p = 0.004; η² = 0.17); volleyball players were stronger in the non-dominant arm (p = 0.033), while handball players were stronger in the dominant arm (p = 0.041). The external-to-internal rotation strength ratio was significantly lower on the dominant side in volleyball players compared to handball players (p = 0.047; d = 0.59). Findings suggest sport-specific adaptations and asymmetries in shoulder function, emphasizing the need for sport-specific and individually tailored injury prevention strategies. Volleyball players, in particular, may benefit from targeted strengthening of external rotators and flexibility training to address imbalances. Full article

Manual assembly remains essential in modern manufacturing, yet the increasing complexity of customised production imposes significant cognitive burdens and error rates on workers. Existing Spatial Augmented Reality (SAR) systems often operate passively, lacking adaptive interaction, real-time feedback and a control system with gesture. In response, we present Gest-SAR, a SAR framework that integrates a custom MediaPipe-based gesture classification model to deliver adaptive light-guided pick-to-place assembly instructions and real-time error feedback within a closed-loop interaction instance. In a within-subject study, ten participants completed standardised Duplo-based assembly tasks using Gest-SAR, paper-based manuals, and tablet-based instructions; performance was evaluated via assembly cycle time, selection and placement error rates, cognitive workload assessed by NASA-TLX, and usability test by post-experimental questionnaires. Quantitative results demonstrate that Gest-SAR significantly reduces cycle times with an average of 3.95 min compared to Paper (Mean = 7.89 min, p < 0.01) and Tablet (Mean = 6.99 min, p < 0.01). It also achieved 7 times less average error rates while lowering perceived cognitive workload (p < 0.05 for mental demand) compared to conventional modalities. In total, 90% of the users agreed to prefer SAR over paper and tablet modalities. These outcomes indicate that natural hand-gesture interaction coupled with real-time visual feedback enhances both the efficiency and accuracy of manual assembly. By embedding AI-driven gesture recognition and AR projection into a human-centric assistance system, Gest-SAR advances the collaborative interplay between humans and machines, aligning with Industry 5.0 objectives of resilient, sustainable, and intelligent manufacturing. Full article

Background: Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer patients face a four-fold higher suicide risk than the general US population. This study explores psychosocial aspects of GI cancer patient experiences, assessing suicidal ideation and behavior, mental distress during treatment phases, and psychosocial factors on mental health. Methods: A two-phase mixed-methods approach involved a web-based survey and follow-up interviews. Quantitative data analysis validated mental health and suicidal ideation constructs, and correlation analyses were performed. The patient journey was charted from diagnosis to treatment. Results: Two hundred and two individuals participated, with 76 from the rural Appalachian region and 78 undergoing treatments. Quantitative analysis showed a higher prevalence of passive suicidal ideation than active planning. The post-treatment recovery period was the most emotionally challenging. Qualitative data emphasized emotional support and vulnerability to isolation. Care quality concerns included individualized treatment plans and better communication. Patients also needed clear, comprehensive information about treatment and side effects. The in-depth interview with four GI cancer patients revealed a healthcare system prioritizing expedient treatment over comprehensive care, lacking formal psychological support. AI emerged as a promising avenue for enhancing patient understanding and treatment options. Conclusions: Our research advocates for a patient-centric model of care, enhanced by technology and empathetic communication. Full article

Background: Antenatal depression and anxiety contribute significantly to maternal morbidity and adverse pregnancy outcomes. However, structured screening and targeted interventions are largely absent from standard prenatal care in many Eastern European countries, including Bulgaria. This study examines the prevalence and psychosocial predictors of antenatal psychosocial risk using the validated Antenatal Risk Questionnaire–Revised (ANRQ-R) in a nationally underrepresented population. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 216 third-trimester pregnant women in Bulgaria. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, health behaviours, and reproductive history were collected. Multivariate logistic regression identified predictors of elevated psychosocial risk. Results: A total of 65.7% of participants met the criteria for elevated psychosocial risk. Significant risk factors included passive smoking exposure during pregnancy (OR = 5.03, p < 0.001), physical activity prior to pregnancy (OR = 1.81, p = 0.004), and a family history of hereditary disease (OR = 42.67, p < 0.001). Protective factors were better self-rated current health (OR = 0.37, p = 0.004), the presence of chronic illness (OR = 0.42, p = 0.049), previous childbirth experience (OR = 0.11, p = 0.032), and residence in Northwestern Bulgaria (OR = 0.31, p = 0.028). Despite the high prevalence of psychosocial vulnerability, only 9.5% of affected women sought professional help. Conclusions: While our findings point to important unmet needs in antenatal mental health, further research is required before national screening policies can be implemented. Pilot programs, cultural validation of tools, and system-level readiness assessments should precede broad adoption. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cooling strategies are critical for optimizing athlete recovery and performance in team sports, yet practical, accessible solutions remain underexplored. This study evaluated the efficacy of a cool vest during a 15 min recovery period following 45 min of simulated soccer match play on core and skin temperature regulation. Methods: Forty-seven physically active males completed an exercise protocol replicating the physiological demands of a soccer half-match. Participants were randomized into an experimental group using a cool vest during recovery (IG, n = 24) or a control group (CG, n = 23) without cooling intervention. Results: Compared to CG, IG exhibited small but significant reductions in skin temperature (31.46 ± 0.67 °C vs. 32.40 ± 1.04 °C; ES = −0.24, 95% CI: −0.40 to −0.08; p = 0.003) and tympanic temperature (35.99 ± 0.45 °C vs. 36.54 ± 0.66 °C; ES = −0.43, 95% CI: −0.67 to −0.18; p < 0.001) 10 min post-exercise. These differences intensified to small and moderate effects at 15 min post-exercise for skin (31.07 ± 0.67 °C vs. 32.51 ± 0.91 °C; ES = −0.37, 95% CI: −0.53 to −0.21; p < 0.001) and tympanic temperatures (35.70 ± 0.42 °C vs. 36.65 ± 0.58 °C; ES = −0.71, 95% CI: −0.96 to −0.46; p < 0.001), respectively, with IG maintaining consistently lower values. No temperature changes were observed in CG. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that a 15 min cool vest application during halftime effectively reduces core and skin temperatures, compared to passive recovery. This supports its utility as a practical, low-cost strategy for thermoregulatory management in soccer, warranting further investigation into its long-term performance benefits. Full article

This study investigates the theological function of the contemporary worship song “The Blessing” by addressing the following guiding research question: in what ways does “The Blessing” function as a form of prophetic declaration and communal prayer in contemporary congregational worship? Drawing on frameworks from Pentecostal theology, lyrical theology, and performative speech-act theory, this study analyzes how the song’s language, structure, and performance embody Spirit-enabled proclamation and intercession. Engaging Rice’s Evagrian–LAPT grammar, Glenn Packiam’s theology of worship as encounter, and Steven Félix-Jäger’s model of New Testament prophecy, the textual analysis focuses on the song’s present-tense verbs of divine action and its lyrical constructions. Scripturally grounded in Numbers 6:24–26, “The Blessing” operates as a sung benediction that invokes God’s blessing, sanctification, divine favor and protection, covenantal presence, and peace. The repetitive use of “Amen” functions as a communal seal of affirmation, turning passive reception into active, prophetic participation when sung. This study contends that the song exemplifies how contemporary congregational song serves as primary theology—Spirit-inspired, embodied, and sounded—where proclamation and prayer are nurtured in lived worship. Ultimately, “The Blessing” functions as a pneumatological and ecclesial act of sung prophecy and intercession—an instance of primary theologizing that nurtures the worshiping community and mediates a Spirit-empowered encounter with divine hope. Full article

Background and Objectives: Heart failure (HF) represents a major public health challenge worldwide, with rising prevalence, high morbidity and mortality rates, and substantial healthcare costs. Non-invasive telemonitoring has emerged as a promising adjunct in HF management, yet its clinical effectiveness remains unclear. Materials and Methods: In this systematic review, we summarize randomized controlled trials (RCTs) between 2004 and 2024 examining the efficacy of non-invasive telemonitoring on mortality, readmission, and quality of life (QoL) in HF. In addition, we characterize the heterogeneity of features of different telemonitoring interventions. Results: In total, 32 RCTs were included, comprising 13,294 participants. While some individual studies reported benefits, non-invasive telemonitoring demonstrated mixed effects on mortality, readmission rates, and QoL. The most common modality for interfacing with patients was by mobile application (53%), followed by web portals (22%), and stand-alone devices (19%). Periodic feedback (63%) was more common than continuous feedback (31%) or on-demand feedback (6%). Clinician reviews of patient telemonitoring data was event-triggered (44%) more commonly than based on a prespecified timeline (38%). In most designs (90%), patients played a passive role in telemonitoring. Conclusions: Non-invasive telemonitoring interventions for HF exhibited considerable variation in duration and system design and had a low rate of patient engagement. Future work should focus on identifying telemonitoring-responsive subgroups and refining telemonitoring strategies to complement traditional HF care. Full article

Objectives: We aimed to identify clustering patterns of the device-measured physical activity (PA) levels (i.e., light PA and moderate-to-vigorous PA) and sedentary time (ST), screen time, sleep duration, and breakfast consumption of Spanish adolescents and their associations with the mode of commuting to and from schools (i.e., active and passive). Methods: A total of 151 adolescents aged 14.4 ± 0.6 years (53.64% girls) were included in this study. Participants wore an accelerometer device during seven consecutive days to measure PA levels and ST levels. Screen time, sleep duration, breakfast consumption, and the mode of commuting to and from school were self-reported by the participants. A two-step cluster analysis was performed to examine the different lifestyle behavior patterns (defined as data-driven groupings of daily behaviors identified through cluster analysis). Logistic regression models were used to determine the associations among the lifestyle behavior patterns and the mode of commuting to and from school. Results: The main characteristics of the three identified clusters were as follows: (active) high PA levels and low ST (38.4%); (inactive) high sleep duration and daily breakfast consumption, but low PA levels and high ST and screen time (37.2%); and (unhealthy) low PA levels and sleep duration, high ST and screen time, and usually skip breakfast (24.4%). No associations were found between these clusters and the mode of commuting to and from school (all, p > 0.05). Conclusions: Three different lifestyle behavior patterns were identified among Spanish adolescents, but no associations were found between these patterns and their mode of commuting to and from school. Full article

Global data reveal ongoing inequalities faced by minorities, often reinforced by media portrayals that depict them as threats, victims, or passive individuals without agency. While media framing has been extensively studied, especially in terms of media content and representation, few studies have examined how journalists perceive and navigate the coverage of minorities. This study addresses that gap by examining how Greek journalists perceive mainstream media coverage of refugees and migrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with mental health challenges, with particular attention to their sourcing practices and sense of ethical responsibility. Fourteen journalists participated in semi-structured interviews, and thematic analysis was applied to identify key patterns. Journalists described dominant media narratives as fragmented, stereotypical, and dehumanizing, noting the frequent use of linguistic inaccuracies, misinformation, and the absence of personal stories. At the same time, they reported opportunities within their own sourcing practices to promote more inclusive and accurate coverage. Ethical concerns were expressed on three levels—union; corporate; and personal—with calls for clearer editorial guidelines and dedicated training. Many participants emphasized the role of personal ethics as a guiding compass in navigating complex newsroom pressures. Full article

Plasma non-transferrin-bound iron (NTBI) comprises multiple subspecies, classified by their composition, chemical reactivity, and susceptibility to chelation. The redox-active and chelatable fraction of NTBI is referred to as labile plasma iron (LPI). The pathophysiological significance of NTBI and LPI lies in their ability to enter cells via alternative transport pathways that are not regulated by the transferrin receptor system or by cellular iron levels. Several mechanisms have been proposed for their cellular entry, including the hijacking of divalent metal transporters and passive diffusion. This unregulated uptake can lead to iron accumulation in vulnerable tissues such as the liver and the heart. NTBI and LPI bypassing normal cellular control mechanisms can rapidly exceed the cell’s capacity to safely store excess iron, leading to toxicity. Both NTBI and LPI contribute to oxidative stress by participating in free-radical-generating reactions. However, LPI concentration in the bloodstream may be differentially affected by the mode and extent of iron overload, the presence of residual serum iron-binding activity, and the antioxidant capacity of individual sera. In summary, both NTBI and LPI contribute to iron-mediated toxicity but differ in terms of reactivity, availability, and pathogenic potential depending on the pathophysiological conditions that influence the degree of toxicity. Full article

Background and Objectives: Oxygen consumption (VO₂) recovery plays a critical role in reestablishing homeostasis within multiple physiological processes. This study aimed to assess the differences in the fitness profiles, fatigability, patterns of VO₂ recovery, and sleep quality among individuals with different body fat percentages. Thus, we evaluated the predictive effects of body fat percentage, CRF, fatigability, and sleep quality on VO₂ recovery patterns following exercise. Materials and Methods: Eighty healthy participants aged 18–52 years were included in this case-control study. The participants were divided into two groups based on body fat percentage: normal-fat (CON; n = 40) and high-fat (HFG; n = 40) groups. The PSQI questionnaire was used to assess sleep efficiency, and a 10 min walk test was performed to assess fatigability. Both groups underwent a symptom-limited treadmill exercise test to assess VO₂ using a modified bulk protocol, followed by 6 min of passive recovery. Results: The participants in the CON group had a higher mean VO₂ peak than those in the high-fat-percentage group (p = 0.0003). The half-time recovery (T1 and T2) demonstrated higher amounts of VO₂ in the CON group compared to the HFG group (p = 0.0007 and p = 0.0005), respectively. Those in the HFG reported greater performance fatigability (p = 0.01) and poorer sleep quality compared to the CON group (p < 0.001). The multiple linear regression model indicated that a higher recovery amount of VO₂ was associated with the fat percentage, VO₂ peak, and fatigability index and explained 72% of the variance (F = 39.58, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The findings of this study revealed that the participants with higher fat percentages exhibited increased performance fatigability and a reduced peak VO₂ and reported poor sleep quality compared to the normal group. CPF, body fat, and performance fatigability were associated with VO₂ recovery after high-intensity exercise. The interplay between body fat, fatigability, sleep quality, and VO₂ recovery highlights the need for a holistic approach to healthcare. Full article

Against the backdrop of China’s urban transformation from incremental expansion to stock regeneration, community regeneration has emerged as a critical mechanism for enhancing urban governance efficacy. As fundamental units of urban systems, the regeneration of communities requires comprehensive approaches to address complex socio-spatial challenges, with public participation serving as the core driver for achieving sustainable renewal goals. However, significant regional disparities persist in the effectiveness of public participation across China, necessitating the systematic institutionalization of participatory practices. Guangzhou, as a pioneering city in institutional innovation and the practical exploration of urban regeneration, provides a representative case for examining the evolutionary trajectory of participatory planning. This research employs Arnstein’s Ladder of Participation theory, utilizing literature analysis and comparative case studies to investigate the evolution of participatory mechanisms in Guangzhou’s community regeneration over four decades. The study systematically examined the transformation of public engagement models across multiple dimensions, including organizational frameworks of participation, participatory effectiveness, diversified financing models, and the innovation of policy instruments. Three paradigm shifts were identified: the (1) transition of participants from “passive responders” to “active constructors”, (2) advancement of engagement phases from “fragmented intervention” to “whole-cycle empowerment”, and (3) evolution of participation methods from “unidirectional communication” to “collaborative co-governance”. It identifies four drivers of participatory effectiveness: policy frameworks, financing mechanisms, mediator cultivation, and engagement platforms. To enhance public engagement efficacy, the research proposes the following: (1) a resilient policy adaptation mechanism enabling dynamic responses to multi-stakeholder demands, (2) a diversified financing framework establishing a “government guidance + market operation + resident contribution” cost-sharing model, (3) a professional support system integrating “localization + specialization” capacities, and (4) enhanced digital empowerment and institutional innovation in participatory platform development. These mechanisms collectively form an evolutionary pathway from “symbolic participation” to “substantive co-creation” in urban regeneration governance. Full article

Background: Pain manifestations as well as increased muscle tone and stiffness noted in the course of delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) are reflected in altered values of the biomechanical and visco-elastic parameters of muscles. This study aimed to compare the effects of soft tissue mobilization with foam rolling and percussive massage on symptoms of DOMS induced by a standardized muscle fatigue protocol. Methods: Healthy volunteers (n = 60) were divided into three groups: FR group—foam rolling (n = 20), PM group—percussive massage (n = 20) and CON group—control/passive rest (n = 20). The fatigue protocol for the gastrocnemius muscle was carried out for development of DOMS in subsequent days. Therapeutic procedures were applied to participants for 3 consecutive days. The results of therapy were assessed by means of myotonometry, performed five times (before, three times during the treatment procedure, and after the end of the procedure). Results: Foam rolling significantly reduced the onset and duration of increased muscle tone (p = 0.006) and stiffness (p < 0.001), unlike percussive massage. The control group exhibited higher tone and stiffness after 48 h, at the peak of DOMS-related pain symptoms. Only foam rolling improved elasticity (decrement, p < 0.001), while visco-elastic properties (relaxation, creep) varied inversely with tone and stiffness. Foam rolling led to significantly lower stiffness (day 2) and reduced decrement and relaxation (day 4) compared to the control. Neither therapy was more effective than passive rest for pain relief during the observation period. Conclusions: Foam rolling and percussive massage accelerate recovery of muscle tone, stiffness, and elasticity after DOMS as compared to passive rest but offer no added benefit for pain relief. Full article

Aim: To assess the acute effects of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF), stretching was applied to the hamstring muscles to evaluate deep cervical flexor endurance. Potential variables correlating with endurance adaptations were examined. Methods: This randomized controlled trial performed between September 2023 and June 2024 included healthy female university students aged 18–25 years. Participants were randomly assigned to either the control or the PNF group. Variables included age, height, weight, body mass index, Beighton score, hamstring flexibility, and deep cervical flexor muscle endurance; correlations between changes in hamstring flexibility and DCF endurance were explored. Hamstring flexibility was assessed using the Passive Knee Extension Test, and deep cervical flexor endurance was assessed using the Cranio-Cervical Flexion Test. The PNF group received hold–relax exercises while controls did not receive any intervention. Results: The study included 32 control participants and 32 individuals in the PNF group. The PNF group was marginally but significantly older than the control group [22 (21–23) vs. 21 (21–22); p = 0.038]. At baseline, the PNF group showed greater hamstring flexibility (p = 0.010). Both groups showed significant improvements in hamstring flexibility (p < 0.001 for both), but the improvement in the PNF recipients was far greater (p < 0.001). Regarding deep neck flexor endurance, no significant difference was observed between the groups at baseline (p = 0.958) or in final measurements (p = 0.244), although both groups showed significant improvements from baseline (p < 0.001 for both). There were no significant correlations between the change in deep neck flexor endurance and any of the examined variables. Conclusions: Our study found that a single session of PNF stretching significantly improved hamstring flexibility but did not immediately enhance deep neck flexor endurance. This emphasizes the need for further research into longer-term interventions to assess whether interventions on hamstring flexibility can improve cervical function. Full article