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IEEE Transactions on Visualization and... May 2024Children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often exhibit motor disorders. Dance Movement Therapy (DMT) has shown great potential for improving the motor...
Children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often exhibit motor disorders. Dance Movement Therapy (DMT) has shown great potential for improving the motor control ability of children with ASD. However, traditional DMT methods often lack vividness and are difficult to implement effectively. To address this issue, we propose a Mixed Reality DMT approach, utilizing interactive virtual agents. This approach offers immersive training content and multi-sensory feedback. To improve the training performance of children with ASD, we introduce a novel training paradigm featuring a self-guided mode. This paradigm enables the rapid creation of a virtual twin agent of the child with ASD using a single photo to embody oneself, which can then guide oneself during training. We conducted an experiment with the participation of 24 children diagnosed with ASD (or ASD propensity), recording their training performance under various experimental conditions. Through expert rating, behavior coding of training sessions, and statistical analysis, our findings revealed that the use of the twin agent for self-guidance resulted in noticeable improvements in the training performance of children with ASD. These improvements were particularly evident in terms of enhancing movement quality and refining overall target-related responses. Our study holds clinical potential in the field of medical treatment and rehabilitation for children with ASD.
Topics: Child; Humans; Autism Spectrum Disorder; Dance Therapy; Augmented Reality; Computer Graphics; Movement
PubMed: 38457325
DOI: 10.1109/TVCG.2024.3372063 -
Frontiers in Psychology 2024Parkinson's disease (PD) causes several motor and non-motor symptoms, resulting in negative impacts on physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects of people with PD...
BACKGROUND
Parkinson's disease (PD) causes several motor and non-motor symptoms, resulting in negative impacts on physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects of people with PD quality of life. Dance has been considered as a potential non-pharmacological intervention to improve people with PD motor and non-motor symptoms, thereby enhancing quality of life.
PURPOSE
To analyze the self-perceive impacts of Brazilian Dance on the quality of life (physical, mental, emotional, and social) of PwPD, both before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.
METHODS
Fourteen participants from the "Dança & Parkinson" project were included in this qualitative study. Data collection instruments consisted of a profile and personal data sheet; assessment of accessibility to the online dance classes; Telephone Montreal Cognitive Assessment by phone call; and semi-structured interview conducted through ZOOM video call. The participants characterization data were calculated using mean, standard deviation, and percentages with the Excel Program version 2013. Qualitative data was analyzed using the Thematic Analysis technique in the Nvivo, version 8.0, qualitative analysis of text, sound, and video program.
RESULTS
The participants reported facing various challenges in dealing with PD, which negatively impact their quality of life. However, their resilience, acceptance, and dedication to treatment play an important role in coping with the issues related to the disease. Brazilian dance, both in-person before the COVID-19 pandemic and online during the pandemic, led the participants to perceive improvements in physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects of quality of life.
CONCLUSION
The Brazilian dance appears to have a positive impact on the physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects of the participants' quality of life, both before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.
PubMed: 38449766
DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1356553 -
Scientific Reports Mar 2024Tai Chi serves as an effective exercise modality for enhancing autonomic regulation. However, a majority of existing studies have employed the single routine (SR)...
Tai Chi serves as an effective exercise modality for enhancing autonomic regulation. However, a majority of existing studies have employed the single routine (SR) protocol as the basis for health interventions. The extent to which the gong routine application (GRA) protocol achieves similar levels of exercise load stimulation as traditional single practice routines remains uncertain. Therefore, this study the distinct characteristics of autonomic load stimulation in these different protocols, thus providing a biological foundation to support the development of Tai Chi health promotion intervention programs. we recruited a cohort of forty-five university students to participate in the 15 min GRA protocol and SR protocol. We collected heart rate and heart rate variability indicators during periods of rest, GRA protocol, and SR protocol utilizing the Polar Scale. Additionally, we assessed the mental state of the participants using the BFS State of Mind Scale. In summary, the autonomic load is lower in the GRA protocol compared to the SR protocol, with lower sympathetic activity but higher parasympathetic activity in the former. Results are specific to college students, additional research is necessary to extend support for frail older adults. It is advised to incorporate GRA protocol alongside SR protocol in Tai Chi instruction. This approach is likely to enhance Tai Chi skills and yield greater health benefits.
Topics: Humans; Aged; Tai Ji; Autonomic Nervous System; Behavior Therapy; Exercise; Health Promotion
PubMed: 38448570
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56330-9 -
International Journal of Sports... 2024Adolescent dancers are at high risk for injuries due to the physical demands of dance training and the physiological changes that occur during adolescence. Though...
BACKGROUND
Adolescent dancers are at high risk for injuries due to the physical demands of dance training and the physiological changes that occur during adolescence. Though studies report high injury rates, there are few standardized screening tools available for adolescent dancers.
HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE
To develop and describe a standardized, feasible, evidence-based, and clinically relevant screen for adolescent dancers.
STUDY DESIGN
Descriptive Epidemiology Study.
METHODS
Dancers at two suburban pre-professional dance studios, in two cohorts, participated in the Columbia Adolescent Dancer Screen (CADS) that includes dance injury history, health questionnaires (EAT-26, SF-36, DFOS), aerobic capacity, range of motion, strength, balance/orthopedic special tests, and dance technique. Participants were asked to complete a weekly injury surveillance questionnaire derived from the Dance-Specific Oslo Sports Trauma Research Centre Questionnaire on Health Problems for 14 weeks following the screening. Feasibility was assessed using process and content analysis in four areas: practicality, demand, implementation, and adaptation.
RESULTS
Descriptive data were collected from 32 female dancers aged 11-17 with cohort one averaging 18.57 dance hours per week and cohort two averaging 10.6 dance hours per week. The screen was practical, able to screen seven to eight dancers per hour utilizing nine assessors and requiring a one-hour commitment from dancers. Cost and space requirements were considered and kept to a minimum while utilizing portable equipment. All screening slots were filled with all dancers agreeing to follow-up injury surveillance, indicating high demand. The screen was implemented with two cohorts with revisions to improve efficiency applied for the second cohort.
CONCLUSION
The CADS is a feasible screening tool for adolescent dancers that overcomes barriers by being pragmatic, evidence-based, and efficient. Screening can be implemented to obtain baseline values, inform wellness recommendations, and establish relationships with medical professionals.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
Level 3b.
PubMed: 38439778
DOI: 10.26603/001c.92902 -
Journal of Applied Gerontology : the... Feb 2024Reminiscence therapy and music are often used to improve the wellbeing of older people; however, we do not know how these interventions are used in practice. This study...
Reminiscence therapy and music are often used to improve the wellbeing of older people; however, we do not know how these interventions are used in practice. This study explored how those working with older people view and use verbal Reminiscence Therapy (VRT) and Music-assisted Reminiscence Therapy (MRT). A total of 110 participants who worked or volunteered with older people in Australia were surveyed in this descriptive, mixed-method study. VRT and MRT were frequently and spontaneously used to respond to the varied needs of older adults. VRT and MRT lead to reported positive outcomes including better care practices, positive affect and mood, and improved social connections. MRT was used as a compensatory strategy when traditional VRT was not possible. This study describes the current practices of VRT and MRT, and an overview of how reminiscence-based approaches are used in Australia to address the health and wellbeing of older people.
PubMed: 38423075
DOI: 10.1177/07334648241236236 -
Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta.... Apr 2024Recent research has unveiled fascinating insights into the intricate mechanisms governing tumor evolution. These studies have illuminated how tumors adapt and... (Review)
Review
Recent research has unveiled fascinating insights into the intricate mechanisms governing tumor evolution. These studies have illuminated how tumors adapt and proliferate by exploiting various factors, including immune evasion, resistance to therapeutic drugs, genetic mutations, and their ability to adapt to different environments. Furthermore, investigations into tumor heterogeneity and chromosomal aberrations have revealed the profound complexity that underlies the evolution of cancer. Emerging findings have also underscored the role of viral influences in the development and progression of cancer, introducing an additional layer of complexity to the field of oncology. Tumor evolution is a dynamic and complex process influenced by various factors, including immune evasion, drug resistance, tumor heterogeneity, and viral influences. Understanding these elements is indispensable for developing more effective treatments and advancing cancer therapies. A holistic approach to studying and addressing tumor evolution is crucial in the ongoing battle against cancer. The main goal of this comprehensive review is to explore the intricate relationship between tumor evolution and critical aspects of cancer biology. By delving into this complex interplay, we aim to provide a profound understanding of how tumors evolve, adapt, and respond to treatment strategies. This review underscores the pivotal importance of comprehending tumor evolution in shaping effective approaches to cancer treatment.
Topics: Humans; Tumor Escape; Neoplasms; Mutation; Medical Oncology; Drug Resistance
PubMed: 38412927
DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167098 -
Disability and Rehabilitation Feb 2024To develop a questionnaire for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients undergoing physiotherapeutic scoliosis-specific exercises (PSSE) and to evaluate its...
PURPOSE
To develop a questionnaire for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients undergoing physiotherapeutic scoliosis-specific exercises (PSSE) and to evaluate its content validity, structural validity, and reliability.
METHODOLOGY
Seven PSSE treatment experts checked the content validity of the Patient's Perception of Scoliosis-Specific Physiotherapy Questionnaire (Physio-IS). For each Physio-IS item, the content validity indexes must be ≥ 90%. Regarding structural validity and reliability 52 adolescents (ages 10-17) with AIS completed the questionnaire. Structural validity was assessed through exploratory factor analysis. Reliability was verified through internal consistency.
RESULTS
Physio-IS content was validated in three evaluation rounds, obtaining 100% expert agreement. About structural validity we identified four domains (cumulative explained variance = 68.2%): (1) specific knowledge (seven questions on understanding their scoliosis condition); (2) social repercussion (five questions about social relationship implications); (3) pain (two questions about scoliosis-associated pain); and (4) associated concern (apprehension/expectations regarding the future). The Physio-IS demonstrated very good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.76-0.92).
CONCLUSION
The Physio-IS is a valid and reliable tool for assessing AIS patients undergoing PSSE and helping physiotherapists identify aspects requiring more attention, thus facilitating intervention strategies, as knowing the patient's perception of their condition or treatment is fundamental to AIS treatment success.
PubMed: 38411124
DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2024.2322040 -
Schizophrenia (Heidelberg, Germany) Feb 2024Accumulating evidence has supported the implementation of dance/movement therapy (DMT) as a promising intervention for patients with schizophrenia (SCZ). However, its...
Accumulating evidence has supported the implementation of dance/movement therapy (DMT) as a promising intervention for patients with schizophrenia (SCZ). However, its effect on body weight and metabolic profile in SCZ remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the outcome of a 12-week DMT session on weight and lipid profile in patients with SCZ using a randomized, single-blinded, controlled trial design. This study encompassed two groups of long-term hospitalized patients with SCZ, who were randomly assigned to the DMT intervention (n = 30) or the treatment as usual (TAU) group (n = 30). Metabolic markers, including weight, body mass index (BMI), fasting glucose, triglycerides, and total cholesterol were measured in both groups at two measurement points (at baseline and the end of the 12-week treatment). We found that DMT intervention significantly decreased body weight (F = 5.5, p = 0.02) and BMI (F = 5.7, p = 0.02) as compared to the TAU group. However, no significance was observed in other metabolic markers, including fasting glucose, triglycerides, and total cholesterol after treatment (all p > 0.05). Our study indicates that a 12-week, 24-session DMT program may be effective in decreasing body weight and BMI in long-term hospitalized patients with SCZ. DMT intervention may be a promising treatment strategy for long-term inpatients in the psychiatric department.
PubMed: 38388554
DOI: 10.1038/s41537-024-00435-7 -
Journal of Gastrointestinal and Liver... Mar 2024Walled-off necrosis (WON) is a serious complication of severe pancreatitis, patients with necrotizing pancreatitis having an increased risk of developing diabetes...
BACKGROUND AND AIMS
Walled-off necrosis (WON) is a serious complication of severe pancreatitis, patients with necrotizing pancreatitis having an increased risk of developing diabetes mellitus (DM). The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of new-onset diabetes (NOD) in patients with symptomatic WON after endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided drainage with lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS).
METHODS
We retrospectively analyzed a prospectively collected database of patients with symptomatic WON treated by EUS-guided drainage with LAMS in a tertiary referral center. The patients were followed-up for at least 12 months after stent removal. These patients were compared with age- and sex-matched asymptomatic WON controls without interventional treatment and healthy controls to assess the one-year occurrence of DM. Diabetes was defined according to the American Diabetes Association criteria.
RESULTS
Of the 50 patients with symptomatic WON included in the study (male/female ratio, 33:17; median age, 60 years), 13 patients (26%) had pre-existing DM and were excluded. Ten of the remaining 37 patients (27%) without prior DM developed NOD within one year after stent removal, this frequency being higher than in asymptomatic WON controls (18.9%, p=0.581) and healthy controls (2%, p = 0.002). In the symptomatic WON group, NOD patients compared to non-DM patients were older (63.5 vs. 56 years old, p=0.042), had more frequent necrosis > 50% of the pancreatic parenchyma (p=0.002) and had a body-tail location of WON (p<0.001). On multivariate analysis, the number of direct endoscopic necrosectomy (DEN) sessions was the only significant factor for NOD occurrence (OR=7.05, p=0.010). NOD patients had poor glycemic control and required more DEN sessions to achieve WON resolution than patients with prior DM (p=0.017).
CONCLUSIONS
In patients with symptomatic WON treated by EUS-guided drainage, DM occurred in 27% of previously non-diabetic patients within one year of follow-up. Patients with extensive pancreatic necrosis were more likely to develop NOD, a high number of DEN sessions being a significant risk factor for NOD occurrence.
Topics: Humans; Male; Female; Middle Aged; Pilot Projects; Retrospective Studies; Treatment Outcome; Endosonography; Stents; Pancreatitis, Acute Necrotizing; Diabetes Mellitus; Drainage; Necrosis
PubMed: 38386891
DOI: 10.15403/jgld-5142 -
Journal of Dance Medicine & Science :... Jun 2024The Backalast compression jacket is intended to improve posture and proprioception of the trunk and shoulder girdle for dancers and dance students during dance training...
The Backalast compression jacket is intended to improve posture and proprioception of the trunk and shoulder girdle for dancers and dance students during dance training by way of elastic bands in the rear of the garment (which include bands enclosing the inferior thorax). This study was intended to investigate whether there is evidence to support those objectives. Fifteen dance students participated (4 male, mean age 19.9 ± 1.4 years old). The dependent variables of trunk-pelvis angle and proximity of trunk axis to global vertical for each participant were measured using optical motion capture before and after the completion of a series of trunk movements. The Helen Hayes model, which we used to represent the trunk, includes the shoulder girdles as part of the trunk. We compared the effect of the type of garment (Backalast or control compression shirt) worn upon the 2 dependent variables, within-subject with paired -tests. The order of whether Backalast or control compression shirt was worn first was alternated between participants. The pre/posttest difference in trunk proprioception as represented by the construct of ability to reproduce trunk-pelvis angle wearing the Backalast was 0.8° ± 0.8°, but for the control shirt, the difference was 1.8° ± 1.4°, = .03. The difference between garments in vertical trunk alignment, measured after the series of trunk movements, was not significant. Our findings suggest that the Backalast can help enhance trunk proprioception when compared to the control compression shirt, although it did not change the angle at which the participants' held their trunks while standing erect (proximity to global vertical).
Topics: Humans; Male; Dancing; Young Adult; Female; Range of Motion, Articular; Proprioception; Torso; Posture; Pelvis; Clothing; Biomechanical Phenomena
PubMed: 38385253
DOI: 10.1177/1089313X241232446