Search Results (1,377)

(1) Background: Rapid population aging in China intensifies physical and mental health challenges, including negative emotions and social barriers. Physical activity (PA) fosters resilience, adaptability, and successful aging through emotional and social benefits. This study examines the relationship between square-dancing exercise and psychological capital (PsyCap) in middle-aged and elderly individuals using cross-validation, subgroup analysis, and a cross-sequential design. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study with 5714 participants employed a serial mediation model. Online questionnaires assessed square-dancing exercise, cognitive reappraisal, prosocial behavior tendencies, PsyCap, and interpersonal relationships. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS 27.0 and Mplus 8.3, incorporating correlation analysis, structural equation modeling, and subgroup comparisons. (3) Results: (a) Cognitive reappraisal and prosocial behavior mediated the link between square-dancing and PsyCap through three pathways; (b) model stability was confirmed across two random subsamples; (c) cross-group differences emerged in age and interpersonal relationships. Compared with secondary data, this study further validated PsyCap’s stability over six months post-pandemic. (4) Conclusions: The study, based on China’s largest square-dancing sample, establishes a robust serial mediation model. The findings strengthen theoretical foundations for PA-based interventions promoting psychological resilience in aging populations, highlighting structured exercise’s role in mental and social well-being. Full article

Today, ‘social sustainability’ is a key feature of many organisations’ environmental, social, and governance strategies, as well as underpinning sustainable development goals. The term refers to the implementation of targets such as reduced societal inequalities, the promotion of social well-being, and the practice of positive community relations. Building a meaningful, accountable, and quantifiable evidence-base from which to translate these high-level concepts into tangible and achievable goals is, however, challenging. The complexities of measuring social capital—often described as a building block of social sustainability—have been documented. The challenge lies in measuring the person, group, or collective in interaction with the context under investigation, whether that be a climate goal, an institution, or a national policy. Social identity theory is a social psychological approach that articulates the processes through which an individual internalises the values, norms, and behaviours of their contexts. Levels of social identification—a concept capturing the state of internalisation—have been shown to be predictive of outcomes as diverse as communication and cognition, trust and citizenship, leadership and compliance, and health and well-being. Applying this perspective to the articulation and measurement of social sustainability provides an opportunity to build an empirical approach with which to reliably translate this high-level concept into achievable outcomes. Full article

Advances in neuroscience have improved the understanding of cognitive, emotional, and social processes involved in learning. Simultaneously, technologies such as artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and gamification are transforming educational practices. However, their integration into formal education remains limited and often misapplied. This study aims to evaluate the impact of technology-supported neuroeducational models on student learning and well-being. A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, the Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and LILACS, including open-access studies published between 2020 and 2025. Selection and methodological assessment followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Out of 386 identified articles, 22 met the inclusion criteria. Most studies showed that neuroeducational interventions incorporating interactive and adaptive technologies enhanced academic performance, intrinsic motivation, emotional self-regulation, and psychological well-being in various educational contexts. Technology-supported neuroeducational models are effective in fostering both cognitive and emotional development. The findings support integrating neuroscience and educational technology into teaching practices and teacher training, promoting personalized, inclusive, and evidence-based education. Full article

As the global population ages, older adults face growing psychological challenges such as loneliness, cognitive decline, and loss of social roles. Meanwhile, artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, including chatbots and voice-based systems, offer new pathways to emotional support and mental stimulation. However, older adults often encounter significant barriers in accessing and effectively using AI tools. This review examines the current landscape of AI applications aimed at enhancing psychological well-being among older adults, identifies key challenges such as digital literacy and usability, and highlights design and training strategies to bridge the digital divide. Using socioemotional selectivity theory and technology acceptance models as guiding frameworks, we argue that AI—especially in the form of conversational agents—holds transformative potential in reducing isolation and promoting emotional resilience in aging populations. We conclude with recommendations for inclusive design, participatory development, and future interdisciplinary research. Full article

Over the last decade, the scientific community has increasingly focused on forest-based practices for human well-being (FBPW), a term that includes all forest activities (e.g., forest bathing, forest therapy, social outdoor initiatives) important for improving people’s health and emotional status. This paper aims to develop a quantitative literature review on FBPW based on big data analysis (text mining on Scopus title and abstract) and PRISMA evaluation. The two techniques facilitate investigations across different geographic areas (major areas and geographical regions) and allow a focus on various topics. The results of text mining highlight the prominence of publications on FBPW for the improvement of human health in East Asia (e.g., Japan and South Korea). Furthermore, some specific themes developed by the literature for each geographical area emerge: urban green areas, cities, and parks in Africa; sustainable forest management and planning in the Americas; empirical studies on physiological and psychological effects of FBPW in Asia; and forest management and FBPW in Europe. PRISMA indicates a gap in studies focused on the reciprocal influences of forest variables and well-being responses. An investigation of the main physiological indicators applied in the scientific literature for the theme is also developed. The main strengths and weaknesses of the method are discussed, with suggestions for potential future lines of research. Full article

Chronic pain (CP) markedly impairs quality of life (QoL) and contributes to physical, psychological, and social dysfunction. In Saudi Arabia, limited research exists on CP and its impact on QoL. This cross-sectional questionnaire-based study conducted at King Abdullah Medical City, Makkah, over 3 months aimed to comparatively assess CP severity and the QoL between individuals who attended specialized pain clinics and those who did not. Data were collected from 250 participants by using a five-part questionnaire, including the RAND 36-Item Health Survey 1.0, to assess QoL. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and comparative analysis using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences v22.0, with p-values of <0.05 considered significant. Most of the participants were female (56%), aged > 18 years (94.4%), Saudi nationals (88%), and married (72%). The most frequently reported pain site was the knee (33.6%). The mean scores for QoL domains were low, especially physical functioning (18.5), emotional well-being (38.4), and social functioning (38.8). Pain severity and poor general health were significantly associated with nationality, educational level, and clinic type. In conclusion, CP profoundly diminished QoL, particularly in terms of physical, emotional, and social aspects. Outcomes were influenced by factors such as educational level, employment, nationality, and clinical care settings. Full article

Background/Objectives: Heart transplantation is a life-saving procedure for patients with end-stage heart failure, yet it involves significant psychological and emotional challenges throughout its various stages. International guidelines recommend a multi-professional approach to the care of these patients and a psycho-social assessment for listing. The recommendations focus on content aspects, but not on the psychometric measure to be administered to patients as part of the assessment. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to provide the preliminary results of administering the protocol used by our center, measuring coping strategies, cognitive functioning, quality of life, and psychological distress in a sample of patients who are candidates for and undergo cardiac transplantation, and to observe any variations after the procedure. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive psychological-clinical assessment involving 40 patients, focusing on psychosocial functioning, cognitive reserves, mental health, and coping strategies. Tools such as the Stanford Integrated Psychosocial Assessment for Transplantation (SIPAT), Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), General Anxiety Disorder 7 (GAD-7), and Medical Outcomes Survey Short Form 36 (SF-36) were employed to evaluate readiness for transplantation and post-transplant adaptation. Results: Results showed high levels of clinical anxiety (52.5%) and low perceived physical health (98%) before the transplant, while post-operative evaluations indicated reduced anxiety (13.51%) and depressive symptoms (10.81%), along with improved psychological well-being and reintegration into daily life. Conclusions: These results show improvement in physical and cognitive levels, accompanied by a state of enhanced psychological well-being after transplantation. A longitudinal psychological approach, from pre-transplant screening to post-discharge follow-up, is needed to address distress, improve coping mechanisms, and promote treatment adherence. This integrative strategy is critical to improving the quality of life and long-term outcomes for heart transplant recipients. Full article

The global rise in urban-related health issues poses significant challenges to public health, particularly in cities facing socio-economic crises. In Lebanon, 70% of the population is experiencing financial hardship, and healthcare costs have surged by 172%, exacerbating the strain on medical services. Given these conditions, improving the quality and accessibility of green spaces offers a promising avenue for alleviating mental health issues in urban areas. This study investigates the psychological impact of nine urban public spaces in Beirut through a comprehensive survey methodology, involving 297 participants (locals and tourists) who rated these spaces using Likert-scale measures. The findings reveal location-specific barriers, with Saanayeh Park rated highest in quality and Martyr’s Square rated lowest. The analysis identifies facility quality as the most significant factor influencing space quality, contributing 73.6% to the overall assessment, while activity factors have a lesser impact. The study further highlights a moderate positive association (Spearman’s rho = 0.30) between public space quality and mental well-being in Beirut. This study employs a hybrid methodology combining Research for Design (RfD) and Research Through Designing (RTD). Empirical data informed spatial strategies, while iterative design served as a tool for generating context-specific knowledge. Design enhancements—such as sensory plantings, shading systems, and social nodes—aim to improve well-being through better public space quality. The proposed interventions support mental health, life satisfaction, climate resilience, and urban inclusivity. The findings offer actionable insights for cities facing public health and spatial equity challenges in crisis contexts. Full article

Background/Objective: Puberphonia is a voice disorder characterized by the persistence of a high-pitched voice in sexually mature males. In phoniatrics and speech-language pathology, it is also known as post-mutational voice instability, mutational falsetto, persistent fistulous voice, or functional falsetto. The absence of an age-appropriate vocal pitch may adversely affect psychological well-being and hinder personal, social, and occupational functioning. The aim of this study was to evaluate of the impact of phoniatric and logopedic rehabilitation on voice quality in patients with puberphonia. Methods: The study included 18 male patients, aged 16 to 34 years, rehabilitated for voice mutation disorders. Phoniatric and logopedic rehabilitation included voice therapy tailored to each subject. A logopedist led exercises aimed at lowering and stabilizing the pitch of the voice and improving its quality. A phoniatrician supervised the therapy, monitoring the condition of the vocal apparatus and providing additional diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations as needed. The duration and intensity of the therapy were adjusted for each patient. Before and after voice rehabilitation, the subjects completed the following questionnaires: the Voice Handicap Index (VHI), the Vocal Tract Discomfort (VTD) scale, and the Voice-Related Quality of Life (V-RQOL). They also underwent an acoustic voice analysis. Results: Statistical analysis of the VHI, VTD, and V-RQOL scores, as well as the voice’s acoustic parameters, showed statistically significant differences before and after rehabilitation (p < 0.005). Conclusions: Phoniatric and logopedic rehabilitation is an effective method of reducing and maintaining a stable, euphonic male voice in patients with functional puberphonia. Effective voice therapy positively impacts selected aspects of psychosocial functioning reported by patients, improves voice-related quality of life, and reduces physical discomfort in the vocal tract. Full article

Background/Objectives: The rapid ageing of the European population presents growing challenges for mental health, highlighting the need to identify factors that can prevent or delay psychological decline and promote a higher quality of life in later life. This study aims to provide an updated and comprehensive overview of mental health among older adults in Europe by examining the prevalence of depressive symptoms and identifying key associated factors. Methods: We analysed data from individuals (n = 45,601) aged 65 years and older across 27 European countries and Israel who participated in Wave 9 of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). This study assessed the prevalence of depressive symptoms, which were evaluated using the EURO-D scale (score range: 0–12), with a cut-off of ≥4 indicating clinically relevant symptoms. It also explored associations with sociodemographic characteristics, physical health, behavioural factors, social participation, internet skills and living conditions. Results: Our findings confirm that depressive symptoms remain highly prevalent among older adults in Europe, with 35.1% of women and 21.5% of men affected, reflecting persistent gender disparities in mental health. Depression in later life was significantly associated with poor physical health, loneliness and lower quality of life. Conversely, moderate involvement in grandchild care and in social participation emerged as potential protective factors. Conclusions: Late-life depression has substantial implications for both mental and physical well-being. Our findings suggest that social integration, gender related factors and physical health are closely associated with depressive symptoms in older adults. These associations highlight the importance of considering these domains when designing interventions and policies aimed at promoting mental health in ageing populations. Full article

Background/Objectives: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are chronic autoimmune conditions that impact the physical and psychological well-being of pediatric patients. While previous studies have shown a high prevalence of mental health challenges among youth with chronic conditions, the prevalence of mental health issues in Canadian pediatric patients with JIA and IBD remains unclear. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of documented mental health disorders and related medication use of youth with JIA or IBD at a tertiary care centre. Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review of youths aged 12–17 diagnosed with JIA or IBD at McMaster Children’s Hospital (MCH) to understand the prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), separation anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder (SAD), obsessive–compulsive disorders (OCD), eating disorders, major depressive disorder (MDD), adolescent adjustment disorder, suicide attempt/suicide ideation, self-harm behaviour, substance use disorder, and attention deficit disorders (ADD). Results: We reviewed 429 patient charts, including 303 patients with IBD and 126 with JIA. Our findings identified 90 IBD patients and 20 JIA patients who had one or more documented mental health conditions. Proportionately, there was a higher prevalence of mental health conditions among IBD patients (30%) compared to JIA patients (16%). The most frequently observed conditions in both IBD and JIA patients were GAD (63%, 50%), ADD (33%, 35%), and MDD (29%, 15%). Conclusions: These findings highlight the critical need for early mental health screening and integrated care approaches that address both medical and psychosocial needs in adolescents with chronic illnesses. Future research should incorporate prospective study designs, include diverse geographic and demographic populations, and explore targeted interventions to improve mental and physical health outcomes in this vulnerable group. Full article

Obesity is a growing global health concern with widespread impacts on physical, psychological, and social well-being. Clinically, it is a major driver of type 2 diabetes (T2D), cardiovascular disease (CVD), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and cancer, reducing life expectancy by 5–20 years and imposing a staggering economic burden of USD 2 trillion annually (2.8% of global GDP). Despite its significant health and socioeconomic impact, earlier obesity medications, such as fenfluramine, sibutramine, and orlistat, fell short of expectations due to limited effectiveness, serious side effects including valvular heart disease and gastrointestinal issues, and high rates of treatment discontinuation. The advent of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (e.g., semaglutide, tirzepatide) has revolutionized obesity management. These agents demonstrate unprecedented efficacy, achieving 15–25% mean weight loss in clinical trials, alongside reducing major adverse cardiovascular events by 20% and T2D incidence by 72%. Emerging therapies, including oral GLP-1 agonists and triple-receptor agonists (e.g., retatrutide), promise enhanced tolerability and muscle preservation, potentially bridging the efficacy gap with bariatric surgery. However, challenges persist. High costs, supply shortages, and unequal access pose significant barriers to the widespread implementation of obesity treatment, particularly in low-resource settings. Gastrointestinal side effects and long-term safety concerns require close monitoring, while weight regain after medication discontinuation emphasizes the need for ongoing adherence and lifestyle support. This review highlights the transformative potential of incretin-based therapies while advocating for policy reforms to address cost barriers, equitable access, and preventive strategies. Future research must prioritize long-term cardiovascular outcome trials and mitigate emerging risks, such as sarcopenia and joint degeneration. A multidisciplinary approach combining pharmacotherapy, behavioral interventions, and systemic policy changes is critical to curbing the obesity epidemic and its downstream consequences. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Juvenile ossifying fibroma (JOF) is a rare, benign, but locally aggressive fibro-osseous neoplasm that primarily affects the craniofacial skeleton of children and adolescents. Early surgical intervention is often required due to the lesion’s rapid growth and potential for significant facial deformity. Long-term functional and esthetic rehabilitation following maxillary resection in early childhood remains a clinical challenge. Case Presentation: This case reports a unique long-term follow-up of a 22-year-old female patient who underwent partial maxillary resection at the age of five due to JOF. Initial reconstructive efforts failed, necessitating a removable prosthesis to restore function and appearance. The patient experienced persistent self-consciousness and social withdrawal during adolescence, attributed to altered facial esthetics and repeated surgical disappointment. Nevertheless, prosthetic rehabilitation significantly improved mastication, phonetics, facial symmetry, and psychological well-being. Conclusions: The enduring psychosocial and functional impact of early maxillary resection for JOF and the pivotal role of prosthodontic management in long term rehabilitation are highlighted. A multidisciplinary approach that includes psychological support is suggested. This case report is among the few reports documenting long-term prosthetic outcomes for pediatric JOF patients extending into adulthood. Full article

Sexuality and intimacy are essential aspects of the human experience for all people, contributing significantly to physical and emotional connections, well-being, and quality of life. Despite their importance, these topics are frequently overlooked in stroke rehabilitation, especially for those with cognitive and perceptual impairments. Existing research on post-stroke sexual rehabilitation tends to focus on sexual dysfunction and the secondary physical and psychological stroke symptoms, with little attention to cognitive and perceptual impairments. Cognitive deficits, such as decreased memory, generalized attention, and executive function not only can hinder sexual participation but also raise the complex issue of capacity to consent. This paper argues that it is imperative for researchers and healthcare practitioners to address cognitive and perceptual challenges, understand consent laws in their respective regions, and consider the influence of culture and social norms in order to support the sexual rights and well-being of all stroke survivors. Furthermore, this article provides some practical recommendations, from an occupational therapy perspective, that healthcare practitioners can provide to clients and their partners. Full article

Background/Objectives: The increasing population of childhood cancer survivors presents new challenges for healthcare systems worldwide. While advances in oncological treatments have dramatically improved survival rates, survivors face a broad spectrum of late effects that extend beyond the biological to encompass profound psychological and social dimensions. Methods: This quasi-systematic review synthesizes data from recent studies on adolescent survivors, revealing significant disruptions in cognitive function, mental health, social integration, education, romantic relationships, and vocational outcomes. Results: This review highlights the inadequacy of a solely biomedical model and advocates for a biopsychosocial approach to long-term follow-up care. An emphasis is placed on the necessity of personalized, interdisciplinary, and developmentally informed interventions, especially in countries like Poland, where structured survivorship care models remain underdeveloped. Conclusions: The findings underscore the importance of integrating medical, psychological, and social services to ensure adolescent cancer survivors achieve not only physical recovery but also meaningful life participation and emotional well-being. Full article