Search Results (1,055)

Background and Objectives: Sexual dysfunction (SD) is common in cancer but remains poorly characterized among patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). This study aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of SD in ICI-treated patients using validated instruments. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, adults with histologically confirmed malignancies who received ≥ 3 cycles of ICIs and reported sexual activity were included. Sexual function was evaluated with the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) and the Golombok–Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction (GRISS). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses identified demographic and clinical predictors of SD. Results: Among 208 patients (median age 59 years; 35.1% female), SD prevalence was 66.3% by ASEX and 59.1% by GRISS. ASEX revealed impairment across five domains—sexual drive, psychological and physiological arousal, orgasm, and satisfaction—while GRISS indicated dysfunction mainly in impotence/orgasmic disorder, avoidance, and satisfaction subscales. In multivariate analysis, age ≥ 60 years (OR: 3.14, 95% CI 1.51–6.53, p = 0.002), female sex (OR: 3.19, 95% CI 1.31–7.74, p = 0.010), Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status ≥ 1 (OR: 2.82, 95% CI 1.39–5.71, p = 0.004), ≥2 metastatic sites (OR: 3.08, 95% CI 1.53–6.19, p = 0.002), and later treatment lines (OR: 2.43, 95% CI 1.20–4.94, p = 0.013) independently predicted ASEX-defined SD. GRISS-based analysis revealed comparable outcomes, identifying ECOG ≥1 and higher metastatic burden as the most prominent predictors of SD, consistent with ASEX findings. Conclusions: SD affected nearly two-thirds of patients receiving ICIs. Female sex, later treatment lines, poor ECOG performance status, and higher metastatic burden were key determinants, emphasizing the importance of routine sexual health evaluation in cancer care. Full article

Background/Objectives: Ensuring quality of life (QoL) is a key aspect of promoting healthy aging. This cross-sectional study investigated whether and to what extent personal views of aging (VoA)—individuals’ perceptions, attitudes, and expectations regarding their own aging—and psychological resilience are associated with QoL and its domains in middle-aged and older adults. Methods: A sample of 224 individuals (46–85 years) was recruited. All participants reported their felt age (FA) and completed the Awareness of Age-Related Change (AARC) questionnaire, assessing awareness of age-related gains (AARC-Gains) and losses (AARC-Losses). They also completed the World Health Organization Quality of Life assessment (WHOQOL-BREF) and the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale for psychological resilience. Multiple regressions and path analyses were run to examine the associations among personal VoA, psychological resilience, and QoL. Results: Regression analyses showed that AARC-Gains and AARC-Losses (but not FA) predicted overall QoL, with AARC-Losses and, to some extent, FA also explaining specific QoL domains. Resilience also emerged as a significant positive predictor for overall QoL and its psychological and environmental domains. Path analyses confirmed and extended the role of personal VoA and resilience on QoL. Resilience directly influenced QoL and its domains, in turn mediating the effects of personal VoA, depending on the specific facets of VoA and the QoL domains examined. Conclusions: These findings suggest that promoting positive/correct personal views of aging and fostering psychological resilience may be promising healthcare strategies for enhancing QoL in adulthood into older age. Full article

Background/Objectives: Children with medical complexity (CMC) living in community settings are increasingly prevalent, and appropriate care environments are essential to support their wellbeing. This study aimed to examine the relationship between care environments and environmental modifications in CMC’s daily living, as well as the factors influencing this relationship. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among families of CMC and professionals (including visiting nurses, consultation support specialists, and other professionals) across Japan. Mann–Whitney U tests were used to examine differences between families and professionals, as well as by the agent of modification. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were performed to compare environmental scores before and after modifications. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients were used to assess associations between environmental modification scores and post-modification environmental scores. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to identify predictors of post-modification environmental scores, including environmental modification subcategory scores and background characteristics. Results: Valid responses were obtained from 90 families (93.8%) and 221 professionals (76.2%). Significant differences in environmental modification scores were observed between families and professionals. Scores were significantly higher when modifications were conducted jointly by families and professionals and when led by professionals than when implemented solely by families. Pre- and post-modification environmental scores demonstrated significant improvements across all domains—physical, collaborative, service, and community—as well as in total score. Conclusions: Families may underappreciate professional psychological support as part of environmental modifications. Jointly planned, family-centred modifications integrating physical, service, collaborative, and community elements improve care environments and support the wellbeing of CMC and their families. Full article

Background: Obesity is a multifactorial disease with significant physical, psychological, and economic impacts on individuals and society. Workers are particularly vulnerable, as obesity is associated with reduced productivity, absenteeism, and premature mortality. Lifestyle interventions combining dietary, physical activity, and behavioural strategies have been investigated as therapeutic approaches in this population. Objective: We aimed to conduct an integrative review assessing the effectiveness of workplace-based obesity treatment models involving dietary interventions, physical activity, and behavioural change. Methods: A search was conducted in PubMed for studies published between 2006 and 2024, with no language restrictions. Eligible studies included experimental or quasi-experimental longitudinal designs involving adult workers. After screening 95 articles, 18 were evaluated in full, and 8 met all inclusion criteria. Data extraction covered study design, intervention type, comparators, outcomes, and methodological quality, assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Results: Half of the included studies reported no significant reduction in body mass index after 6 or 12 months, while the others showed only modest decreases. Nevertheless, all interventions demonstrated improvements in dietary habits (reduced sugar-sweetened beverage intake, increased fruit, vegetable, and fibre consumption), physical activity (increased walking, reduced sedentary behaviour), and behavioural domains (adherence to healthy routines, self-monitoring, and family or employer support). Conclusions: Lifestyle-based workplace interventions for obesity show limited long-term effectiveness in weight reduction but promote healthier lifestyle habits, cardiometabolic health, and more supportive work environments. Future research should include diverse socioeconomic settings, particularly in developing countries, and apply robust designs, longer follow-ups, and innovative strategies to enhance adherence and outcomes. Full article

Dementia significantly impacts cognitive, behavioral, and functional abilities, creating challenges for both individuals and caregivers. Recent advancements in HCI have introduced innovative technological solutions to support people with dementia (PwD) and their caregivers. This scoping review systematically examines 32 recent publications from leading digital libraries, categorizing technological interventions into four key domains: Assistive and Smart Technology for Daily Life, Social Interaction and Communication, Well-being and Psychological Support, and Caregiver Support and Training. Our analysis highlights how emerging technologies are transforming dementia care. These technologies enhance quality of life by promoting independence, fostering social engagement, and providing emotional and cognitive support. However, the review also identifies critical gaps, particularly in addressing the needs of individuals with early-stage dementia and the lack of individualized support mechanisms. By emphasizing user-centered design, accessibility, and ethical considerations, this paper offers a structured roadmap for future research and practice in dementia care. It bridges the gap between technological innovation and the real-world needs of PwD and their caregivers, providing valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. This review not only synthesizes current advancements but also sets the stage for future HCI-driven innovations in dementia care, aiming to improve outcomes for an aging global population. Findings primarily reflect older adults; implications for early-onset dementia are discussed. Full article

Animal hoarding is a complex and multifactorial phenomenon that poses serious risks to animal welfare, public health, and environmental balance. Despite increasing attention, current interventions often remain fragmented and lack integration across medical, psychological, and social domains. Based on a critical review of existing tools and field experience in the Italian context, this study proposes a structured operational protocol to support multidisciplinary teams in the assessment and management of animal hoarding cases. The protocol integrates three complementary tools: a preliminary observational form, a clinical-relational interview, and a veterinary health form. Designed to be modular, replicable, and shareable among professionals from diverse backgrounds, the protocol aims to promote a One Welfare approach, recognizing the systemic interconnection between animal suffering, human psychological distress, and environmental degradation. While further experimental validation is required, this conceptual model provides a concrete operational basis for structured interventions and consistent data collection in support of research and public health. Full article

Fatigue is a multidimensional phenomenon with profound implications for performance, health, and wellbeing. Its complexity means that no single discipline can adequately explain its causes or management, highlighting the need for integrative approaches. This article introduces the F.L.A.M.E.S. framework, a psychological model that integrates self-report, physiological, emotional, and contextual perspectives on fatigue. The framework combines validated assessment tools with evidence-based management strategies including goal setting, motivational self-talk, attentional control, and emotion regulation and embeds these within proactive, reactive, and preventative approaches. Applications are illustrated through case studies in sport, healthcare, and education, showing how the model can be co-constructed with practitioners to ensure ecological validity and uptake. By linking mechanisms to management and scaling solutions across domains, the F.L.A.M.E.S. framework provides a roadmap for enhancing performance, resilience, and sustainable wellbeing. Full article

Background/Objectives: Heart transplantation substantially improves survival and quality of life in patients with advanced heart failure; however, many heart transplantation patients fail to recover normal physical activity levels. Persistent inactivity compromises secondary prevention and long-term outcomes. Kinesiophobia—an excessive and irrational fear of movement—may act as a central barrier limiting physical activity after heart transplantation. This study aimed to explore how kinesiophobia develops and interacts with physical and psychological factors that influence adherence to an active lifestyle after heart transplantation. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted in 24 adult heart transplantation patients (mean age 62.1 years; 83% male) at a tertiary hospital in Spain. Semi-structured interviews lasting 35–60 min were transcribed verbatim and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Methodological rigour was ensured through triangulation, reflexivity, and transparent documentation of analytic decisions. Results: Three interrelated themes were identified: (1) Kinesiophobia, characterised by fear of overexertion and avoidance of performing physical activity; (2) physical limitations, including fatigue, muscle weakness, treatment side effects, and intensified perceptions of vulnerability; and (3) psychological distress, encompassing anxiety, demotivation, and frustration, which intensified inactivity. These domains formed a self-perpetuating cycle that restricted participation in physical activity. Some participants reported simple adaptive strategies, such as pacing, walking and social support that enhanced their sense of safety and confidence. Conclusions: Kinesiophobia, physical limitations, and psychological distress interact to restrict physical activity in heart transplantation patients. Our findings suggest that rehabilitation should integrate psychological support, cognitive-behavioural strategies, and tailored education to reduce fear, enhance self-efficacy, and promote sustainable physical activity engagement. Full article

Remote, self-managed neuroempowerment protocols are emerging as promising tools for promoting psychophysical well-being in healthy individuals through scalable, home-based interventions. Rooted in positive psychology, applied psychophysiology, and embodied awareness practices, these protocols increasingly leverage wearable technologies and digital platforms to support self-regulated training in cognitive, emotional, and physical domains. This scoping review explores the current literature on such interventions, guided by a triadic model of subjective well-being encompassing neurocognitive efficiency, psychological balance, and physical fitness. A systematic search across major scientific databases identified 28 studies meeting inclusion criteria, with a focus on home-based interventions targeting healthy adult populations using embodied awareness practices, applied psychophysiology techniques, and empowerment-based strategies. Findings indicate that these interventions yield improvements in attention regulation, stress reduction, and subjective well-being, particularly when combining digital feedback systems with embodied practices. However, significant methodological limitations persist, including the overreliance on self-report measures, lack of longitudinal follow-up, and insufficient integration of objective, multimodal assessment tools. Moreover, few studies explicitly address the role of participant engagement and agency—key elements in neuroempowerment frameworks that conceptualize the individual not as a passive recipient of treatment, but as an active agent in the training process. This review highlights the need for more rigorous and theoretically grounded research, advocating for integrative, adaptive intervention models supported by wearable neurotechnologies. Such approaches hold the potential to enhance motivation, personalize feedback, and promote sustainable well-being in ecologically valid, participant-centred ways. Full article

Background: Diabetes often causes microvascular complications such as neuropathy. Autonomic neuropathy remains under-recognized, and its impact on quality of life (QoL) is unclear. This study investigated associations between symptoms of autonomic dysfunction, including organ-specific subdomains, and QoL in individuals with type 1 (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Methods: A cross-sectional population-based survey was conducted in the North Denmark Region among individuals with T1D and T2D, assessing autonomic symptom burden with the Composite Autonomic Symptom Score-31 (COMPASS-31), general well-being with the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and psychological well-being with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Multivariate linear regression assessed associations between autonomic symptom scores and QoL outcomes. Results: The COMPASS-31 scores were 8.9 (2.9; 22.8) in T1D and 12.4 (5.3; 26.1) in T2D. SF-36 physical composite scores were 52.1 (43.2; 56.4) in T1D and 49.3 (40.3; 54.8) in T2D, with similar mental composite scores (50.7 (40.3; 56.9) vs. 51.4 (41.2; 57.2)). Signs of moderate to severe anxiety were observed in 9.9% (95% confidence interval (CI): 8.1–11.9) of T1D and 8.9% (95% CI: 8.1–9.6) of T2D, while depression was present in 5.9% (95% CI: 4.5–7.6) and 5.1% (95% CI: 4.5–5.7). Higher autonomic symptom burden, especially pupillary, vasomotor, and bladder domains, was associated with lower SF-36 score and higher anxiety and depression scores. Conclusions: the Autonomic symptom burden is associated with reduced QoL and increased psychological distress in individuals with diabetes. These findings emphasize the importance of assessing and managing autonomic symptoms in diabetes care to support overall well-being. Full article

Psychological safety (PS), knowledge management (KM), and organizational learning (OL) are increasingly recognized as critical foundations for resilient, adaptive, and innovative organizations. However, the connections among these constructs remain fragmented in the literature, making bibliometric mapping an essential step to consolidate knowledge in this domain. This study analyzes the relationships between PS, KM, and OL, identifying thematic patterns and theoretical contributions that support the integration of these constructs into organizational cultures. Drawing from empirical literature indexed in Web of Science (WoS) (2000–2025), we applied the SPIDER framework and PRISMA methodology to identify and evaluate 103 peer-reviewed articles. Using VOSviewer (version 1.6.20) and data mining techniques, we generated bibliometric networks and thematic clusters that offer a comprehensive view of the conceptual landscape. Findings reveal that PS acts as a key enabler of knowledge sharing and OL, particularly in inclusive environments with leadership support and tolerance for error. An inductively developed conceptual model illustrates how trust-driven cultures can enhance knowledge flows and reduce dysfunctional behaviors such as knowledge hiding. By mapping these intersections, the study consolidates fragmented literature and demonstrates how PS, KM, and OL contribute to sustainable learning cultures while also highlighting promising avenues for future research on collective learning and organizational resilience. Full article

Background: Rapid population aging poses significant challenges to health and wellness systems, necessitating innovative technological interventions. Smart home technologies, particularly voice-activated intelligent assistants (smart speakers), represent a promising avenue for supporting aging populations. Objectives: This study critically examines the empirical literature on smart speakers’ influence on older adults’ health and well-being, mapping the characteristics of existing studies, assessing the current state of this domain, and providing a comprehensive overview. Methods: A mixed-methods systematic review was conducted in accordance with published guidelines. Bibliometric data, article purposes and outcomes, keyword network analysis, and mixed-methods findings from articles retrieved from five major databases were managed through the Covidence and VosViewer applications. Results: The majority of studies were conducted in the American region. Bibliometric analysis revealed five predominant thematic clusters: health management, psychological support, social connectedness, technology adoption, and usability. Findings demonstrated multifaceted benefits across several domains. Older adults reported improvements in daily living activities, enhanced emotional well-being, strengthened social connections, and overall health benefits. Qualitative evidence particularly emphasized the advantages of medication adherence, routine maintenance, and facilitated social support. However, mixed-method synthesis revealed significant barriers to adoption and sustained use, including privacy concerns, technical difficulties, cost constraints, and limited digital literacy among older users. Conclusions: The integration of smart speakers into the homes of older adults offers considerable potential to enhance technological wellness and promote successful aging in place, underscoring the need for structured integration of smart speaker technology and human-centered designs within geriatric care systems. Full article

Aging involves a progressive decline in physiological functions, increasing vulnerability to disorders, functional decline, and disability. Emphasizing resilience and intrinsic capacity offers a proactive framework for promoting successful aging and quality of life. This narrative review selected significant articles published within the last five years on resilience, especially physical resilience, and intrinsic capacity, along with earlier relevant works. Articles were primarily searched in English using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus, employing relevant terms with Boolean operators (“AND”, “OR”). Inclusion criteria included peer-reviewed conceptual, observational, and interventional studies on resilience and/or intrinsic capacity in adults over 60, published between 2020 and 2025, highlighting how the inclusion of geriatric evaluation improves health outcomes. Studies not focused on older adults, outside the date range, or non-English articles were excluded. Out of 145 references, 43 articles met the inclusion criteria. ResEvidence suggests that resilience (a dynamic response to stressors) and intrinsic capacity (baseline reserves across locomotion, vitality, cognition, sensory, and psychological domains) are interconnected, with resilience being associated with better health outcomes, a lower prevalence of chronic diseases, and greater mental health stability. Incorporating assessments of resilience and intrinsic capacity into clinical workflows could support targeted interventions; routine screening may guide personalized exercise and psychosocial plans to help prevent functional decline. Utilizing brief, validated tools (e.g., Short Physical Performance Battery, handgrip strength, Geriatric Depression Scale, brief cognitive tests, and resilience scales) can inform interventions such as physical activity, nutritional support, deprescribing, and psychosocial engagement, which may support healthier aging trajectories. Full article

Objectives: This cross-sectional case–control study, conducted at the Department of Physiotherapy, Academy of Physical Education, in Katowice, between July 2022 and April 2023, aimed to assess the overall health status (OHS) of patients with mild-to-moderate cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS) compared with a healthy control population. Methods: The SF-36 questionnaire was used to evaluate the following domains: physical functioning (PF), role limitations due to physical health problems (RP), bodily pain (BP), general health (GH), vitality (VT), social functioning (SF), role limitations due to emotional problems (RE), and mental health (MH). Results: A total of 152 participants were enrolled in the study. The CuTS and control groups consisted of 82 and 70 individuals, respectively. The CuTS group had significantly lower scores in most domains when compared with the control group; however, no significant difference was observed in the BP domain. Notably, the VT domain showed a statistically significant difference in favor of the CuTS group, indicating slightly higher perceived vitality despite functional limitations. Conclusions: Mild and moderate forms of CuTS are associated with significant deterioration in general health, encompassing both physical and psychological components, as assessed by the SF-36 questionnaire; however, no significant difference was observed in the BP domain, suggesting that the burden of CuTS may manifest more strongly in functional, psychosocial, and mental health aspects rather than in generalized pain perception. These findings highlight the importance of a comprehensive evaluation and management strategy that addresses both physical and psychosocial dimensions of patient care. Full article

Background: This study examined the relationship between screen time, body image satisfaction, body mass index (BMI), and quality of life among children and adolescents from two school clusters in Sesimbra, Portugal. Methods: The sample included 80 students aged 10 to 18 years, assessed using validated questionnaires (Collins’ Figure Rating Scale and KIDSCREEN-27). Results: Results indicated sex differences in electronic game use, with boys reporting higher usage. A negative association was found between time spent on social networks and perceived autonomy and parent–child relationship quality. A high prevalence of body image dissatisfaction was found, particularly among boys, which was significantly associated with BMI. Regarding quality of life, participants scored lower than the European average in the domains of physical and psychological well-being. Conclusions: Findings suggest that screen time, body image, and BMI interdependently affect quality of life, underscoring the need to promote digital literacy, self-esteem, body acceptance, and healthy lifestyles in both school and family settings. Full article