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Introduction. This study aimed to investigate the effects of integrating treadmill training with trunk mobility exercise on functional performance in patients with Parkinson's disease (Pd). Methods. Fourteen patients with Pd volunteered for this study. This single-subject experimental study used an A-B-C design: (A) baseline, (B) intervention-1 (trunk mobility exercise alone), and (C) intervention-2 (trunk mobility exercise and treadmill training). No intervention was performed during the A phase. Trunk mobility exercise focusing on large trunk and limb motions was performed during the B phase. The C phase included treadmill training in addition to trunk mobility exercise. outcome measures included the 10-m walk test (10MWT), timed up-and-go (TUG) test, unified Parkinson's disease rating scale Part iii, Berg balance scale, dynamic gait index, and new activities of daily living questionnaire. Results. in the comparison of individual data, most participants showed improved 10 MWT and TUG test scores during the B and C phases when compared with those in the baseline phase, except for one participant for the TUG test score. Moreover, group data comparison revealed significantly improved scores for all parameters after the B phase (p < 0.05), and these gains improved synergistically after the C phase (p < 0.05). Conclusions. These findings suggest that trunk mobility exercises are beneficial for enhancing balance and walking function in patients with Pd; furthermore, the benefits are improved synergistically by integrating treadmill training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gait and balance difficulties pose significant clinical challenges in Parkinson's disease (PD). The impairment of physiological mechanisms responsible for maintaining natural orthostatism plays a central role in the pathophysiology of postural instability observed in PD. In addition to the well-known rigidity and abnormalities in muscles and joints, various brain regions involved in the regulation of posture, balance, and gait, such as the basal ganglia, cerebellum, and brainstem regions like the pontine peduncle nucleus, are affected in individuals with PD. The recognition of the cerebellum's role in PD has been increasingly acknowledged. Cortical areas and their connections are associated with freezing of gait, a type of frontal lobe ataxia commonly observed in PD. Furthermore, impairments in the peripheral nervous system, including those caused by levodopatherapy, can contribute to gait impairment and imbalance in PD patients. Consequently, individuals with PD may exhibit frontal ataxia, sensory ataxia, and even cerebellar ataxia as underlying causes of gait disturbances and imbalance, starting from the early stages of the disease. The complex interplay between dysfunctional brain regions, impaired cortical connections, and peripheral nervous system abnormalities contributes to the multifaceted nature of gait and balance difficulties in PD. Understanding the intricate mechanisms is crucial for the development of effective therapeutic approaches targeting these specific deficits in PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is a lack of measures and data on interpersonal mindfulness from non-Western cultures, which can hinder advances in our understanding of the construct, its conceptual representation, and its effects on human connection and relationships within different cultural settings. To fill this gap and help spark future research in this area in the Arab world, the current study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of an Arabic translation of the 27-item and the 13-item versions of the interpersonal Mindfulness Scale (IMS) in a sample of Arabic-speaking adolescents from the general population. Methods: A web-based survey was conducted in a sample of 527 Lebanese community adolescents (Mean age = 15.73 ± 1.81 years; 56% females). The IMS was translated from English into Arabic using the forward-backward translation method. Participants completed the long and short forms of the IMS, as well as the Buss–Perry Aggression Questionnaire-Short Form (BPAQ-SF), and the 5-item Brief Irritability Test. Results: Confirmatory factor analyses provided support to the four-factor structure of both the 27-item and the 13-item IMS (i.e., Presence, Awareness of Self and Others, Nonjudgmental Acceptance, and Nonreactivity). The original and the short form versions of the IMS yielded excellent internal consistency in our sample, with a Cronbach's α coefficients of 0.95 and 0.90, and McDonald's omega coefficients of 0.95 and 0.90, respectively. Multigroup comparisons suggested the factorial invariance of the Arabic 27-item and 13-item IMS between male and female participants at the metric, configural, and scalar levels. Finally, the concurrent validity of both full-length and short form of the IMS appeared to be good and comparable, as attested by patterns of correlations in expected directions with outcome variables (i.e., aggression, anger, hostility, and irritability). Conclusion: The present findings provide support for the good psychometric qualities of the Arabic translation of the IMS in both long and short forms, suggesting that these scales are suitable for use to measure interpersonal mindfulness in Arabic-speaking youth, at least in Lebanon. We expect that the IMS, in particular its shortest form, will prompt more systematic investigation of interpersonal mindfulness in the Arabic-speaking populations, especially with regard to enhancing healthy communications with others and building effective social relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the results of a study on the use of the immune checkpoint inhibitor durvalumab in patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). The study found that higher levels of CD4+ T cells before treatment and an expansion of γδ T cells during treatment were associated with a better response to durvalumab. The study also examined changes in immune cell composition during treatment and found that a decrease in certain immune cell populations and an increase in γδ T cells correlated with a higher rate of pathological complete response (pCR) to durvalumab. The authors suggest that these findings could potentially be used as biomarkers to predict patient response to durvalumab, but further research is needed to validate these results. [Extracted from the article]

There is debate over whether following state laws helps young people, especially those at risk for social exclusion, find meaning in their lives. The help rests on existentialist and terror management theories, which hold that maintaining security, especially when it is under risk, is meaningful to life. However, alternative views that state law is authoritarian, illiberal, oppressive, and therefore useless cast doubt on this help. Instead, the views hold that social risk is tolerable and thus meaningful. To clarify the debate, this study examined data from a random-sample survey of 2,175 Chinese youths in Hong Kong. Findings show that agreement to the law contributes to life meaningfulness, particularly by reducing the adverse effects of social risk awareness. Moreover, a quadratic effect emerged in that the contribution rose with the agreement. These findings suggest the value of encouraging law abidance and preventing social risk based on existentialist and terror management theories to increase youth's life meaningfulness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A decrease in positive emotional expressiveness, a decrease in intimacy expressiveness, and an increase in negative emotional expressiveness are related to marital incompatibility. Therefore, it is very important to improve emotional expressiveness in incompatible couples through couple therapy interventions, especially compassion-focused couple therapy, but there is a research gap in the effect of compassion-focused couple therapy on emotional expressiveness in the studied society. Aims: The present study was conducted with the aim of determining the effectiveness of compassionfocused couple therapy on positive and negative emotional expressiveness and intimacy expressiveness of incompatible couples. Methods: The design of the current research was semi-experimental, of pre-test-post-test type with a control group. The statistical population was all incompatible couples who referred to Sifa, Behin and Hamraz centers of counseling and psychological services of Khorramabadcity in 2023. A sample of 20 qualified couples was placed in two experimental and control groups using the targeted manner from the available type. Couples were evaluated based on Emotional Expressiveness Questionnaire (King & Emmons, 1990) in two stages of pre-test and post-test in both groups. The experimental group received compassion-focused couple therapy (Lotfi et al., 2021) over eight 60-minute sessions. Analysis of covariance and SPSS version 27 software were used for data analysis. Results: The findings of the present study showed that compassion-focused couple therapy was effective in increasing posiive emotional expressiveness and intimacy expresiveness, as well as reducing the negative emotional expressiveness of incompatible couples (p<0.01). Conclusion: According to the findings, compassion-focused couple therapy by strengthening positive and adaptive emotions in couples, reducing negative emotions of couples, encouraging couples to express verbal and behavioral compassion and empathy towards their spouses and understanding the strengths and weaknesses of oneself and the spouse improves emotional expressiveness in incompatible couples. Therefore, compassion-focused couple therapy can be used to improve the emotional expressiveness of incompatible couples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Caring for veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress can affect various aspects of spouses' lives and their quality of life. The skill of positive thinking includes learning to think differently, about positive events and assets, negative events and assets, and valuing these assets. This research aimed to investigate the effect of positive thinking training on the quality of life of veterans spouses suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Methods and Materials: This intervention was conducted as a randomized field trial on 60 veterans spouses suffering from post-traumatic stress. The research sample was divided into two groups of intervention (30 people) and control (30 people) by random allocation. A quality of life questionnaire(SF-36) was completed by caregivers before, after and two months after the training. The intervention included teaching positive thinking in 8 sessions. The data were analyzed through paired t-test and chi-square at a significance level of 0.05. Results: At the beginning of the study, there was not any statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of demographic characteristics and the eight dimensions of quality of life. In the intervention group, the average overall quality of life score changed from 79.2 ± 11.0 in the pre-intervention phase to 87.4 ± 11.1 in the post-intervention phase and 95.8 ± 8.6 in the two-month phase. It was significantly higher than the control group (p<0.005). Discussion and Conclusion: Considering the effectiveness of positive thinking training on the quality of life of the veterans spouses suffering from post-traumatic stress, it is recommended to use programs based on positive thinking in order to improve their quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meaning in life has long been a mystery of human existence. In this review, we seek to demystify this construct. Focusing on the subjective experience of meaning in life, we review how it has been measured and briefly describe its correlates. Then we review evidence that meaning in life, for all its mystery, is a rather commonplace experience. We then define the construct and review its constituent facets: comprehension/coherence, purpose, and existential mattering/significance. We review the many experiences that have been shown to enhance meaning in life and close by considering important remaining research questions about this fascinating topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Australia has just rescheduled two drugs controlled under the United Nations Psychotropic Drug Conventions, psilocybin and MDMA, as treatments for treatment-resistant depression and post-traumatic stress disorder respectively. This feature explores the reasons for these developments, the opportunities and challenges they provide to psychiatry communities and how along with health systems these communities might respond to these developments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the relationship between postural sway performance during commonly utilized postural control assessments following a concussion, including the modified Balance Error Scoring System (mBESS), concussion balance test (COBALT), and sensory organization test (SOT) in healthy young adults. Approach: Twenty participants completed all balance testing. The mBESS conditions included double limb stance, single limb stance, and tandem stance. The COBALT was comprised of yaw plane head shake (HS) and vestibular ocular reflex cancellation conditions performed on firm and foam surfaces. Subjects performed 6 conditions of the SOT (C1-C6), which systematically perturbed sensory inputs. Postural sway performance was measured using a single force plate and quantified as a sway score for the mBESS and COBALT, and an equilibrium score for the SOT. Spearman rank correlations were used to examine the relationship between postural sway performance for each test. Main Results: There was a moderate positive correlation between mBESS-tandem stance and the HS on foam COBALT condition (r = .643, P = .002). There was a moderate negative correlation between mBESS-double limb stance and SOT-C6 (r = -.512, P = .021), and between mBESS-single limb stance and SOT-C6 (r = -.523, P = .018). The COBALT and SOT demonstrated numerous moderate to good negative correlations (r = -.448 to -.708, P ≤ .05), including a good negative correlation between HS on foam and SOT-C1 (r = -.725, P = .0003). Significance: Performance on the mBESS had minimal relationship to performance on the COBALT and SOT, suggesting that the clinical standard may not challenge sensory integration at the same capacity as other tests. All COBALT conditions had fair to good associations to at least 2 SOT conditions, suggesting both assessments are representative of sensory integration. Further investigation of the current clinical approach is warranted as the COBALT may be a clinically feasible test of sensory integration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Clinical guidelines for people with Parkinson's disease (pwPD) stress that, complementary to pharmacological treatment, exercise and physiotherapy should be given a central role in disease management. Adhering to regular exercise of the right type, and with high repetition, remains a challenge for pwPD. Exergaming has the potential to increase adherence through play and personalised interventions, both in clinic and at home. Reality DTx® is an augmented-reality (AR) home-based gait-and-balance exergaming intervention specifically designed for pwPD as an extension of supervised physiotherapy. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and potential efficacy of Reality DTx®. Methods: Twenty-four pwPD (Hoehn and Yahr stages 2–4) with self-reported gait and/or balance impairments will participate in this study. The study comprises a 6-week waitlist-controlled AR home-based therapeutic gait-and-balance exergaming intervention. Reality DTx® will initially be prescribed remotely for a minimum of 5 days a week for 30 min per day. We will remotely set and adjust the frequency, difficulty, type of games, and/or duration weekly, based on objective and subjective data from the AR glasses and participant, respectively. In addition to the home-based gait-and-balance exergaming intervention, the study comprises three laboratory visits: before the 6-week waitlist period (t0; baseline), before the 6-week intervention period (t1; pre-intervention), and after the 6-week intervention period (t2; post-intervention). The primary study parameters are feasibility (in terms of safety, adherence, and user experience) and potential efficacy for improving gait and balance (using standard clinical gait-and-balance tests and a targeted walking-related fall-risk assessment). Recruitment started in December 2022 and the final post-intervention assessment will be according to planning in July 2023. Conclusions: This clinical feasibility trial is the first remotely prescribed and monitored home-based AR gait-and-balance exergaming intervention for pwPD. The results in terms of clinical feasibility (i.e. safety, adherence, and user experience) and potential efficacy (gait, balance, and fall-risk outcomes) form the basis for future randomised controlled studies on the effectiveness of home-based AR gait-and-balance exergaming interventions for pwPD. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05605249. Registered on 4 November 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As longevity increases, understanding how a person maintains well-being and builds resilience to adversity becomes increasingly important. The present work (a) composes main cognitive elements into a universal psychological multisystem and (b) explains the factors that contribute to the function of this multisystem within physical space and across time. Drawing on established theories and previous findings, a theoretical reconstruction of a universal architecture serves to identify the principles a person needs to satisfy as a dynamic system that is governed by physical laws. A novel conceptual model generates testable hypotheses regarding how a universal cognitive multisystem, which is aided by a universal embodied emotional system, facilitates endless behavioral patterns in response to the environment. This theoretical framework compliments previous models and proposes that the nomothetic parameters of consistency, flexibility, self/others ratio and speed of meaning can explain inter- and intra-individual differences in psychological stability and resilience. The present work provides a comprehensive theory and methodological guidelines for the systematic assessment of well-being. This new approach to investigating well-being may open a new research direction and inform preventive and therapeutic interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

School is an important setting for adolescents to develop connectedness to peers, teachers and school, and this connection has the potential to play a protective role in promoting and enhancing their psychological well-being. The meta-analytic study described here used a random-effect model to examine previous studies that explored school connectedness in relation to psychological well-being in adolescents. Subgroup analyses and multiple meta-regression analyses were conducted to explore the potential moderators of any relationship between school connectedness and psychological well-being. The variables were gender, age, culture, and four dimensions of school connectedness. Results support a view that in this adolescent age group stronger school connectedness is associated with higher levels of psychological well-being. Gender was not found to be a moderator of the association, but moderation was evident from age and from a cultural tendency towards individualism or collectivism. Subgroup analyses found different effect sizes for the association between each dimension of school connectedness and psychological well-being. Findings strengthen the view that secondary schools should make effort to foster and encourage adolescents' school connectedness. Most importantly, findings emphasize the value of the four key dimensions of the connectedness construct and offer important implications for future research and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Globally, economically developed countries face similar ageing demographics and the challenge of a ‘care gap’, yet they vary due to different care and formal support systems, and different cultural and societal norms around illness and care. The aim of this exploratory study was to examine cross-country variations in caregiver motivations, willingness, values, meaning in life, illness beliefs, and experiences of wellbeing, gain, health-related quality of life, burden and depression, across 6 European countries and Israel. Cross-country differences in the abovementioned informal caregiver experiences are rarely described. Methods An online survey (ENTWINE-iCohort) was conducted using validated measures wherever possible. This paper utilises data from 879 caregivers and seven countries (Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, the UK, and Israel). Results No consistent finding supporting the concurrent relationship between caregiver support policies/ country culture and caregiver motivations/willingness was found. Caregivers in countries typically characterised by individualist cultures reported lower familism, higher self-enhancement values, and greater perceived illness threat compared to more collectivist countries. Search for meaning was higher in poorer countries than in wealthier countries. Higher negative caregiver experiences (e.g., burden) and lower positive experiences (e.g., wellbeing) were generally observed in countries with underdeveloped caregiver support as compared to countries with more developed formal support systems. Conclusions Cross-country variations can be explained to varying degrees by national policies around care (or their absence) and country cultural contexts. The results emphasise the importance of formal support services for achieving positive caregiver experiences, and help inform the development of policies and measures to support caregivers in Europe and Israel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is drug of high prevalence in Aotearoa New Zealand and is the primary drug analysed by legal drug checking services. We aimed to address the gap in literature pertaining to MDMA-related harm reduction behaviour and harm experiences within the country. Methods: An online survey was used to assess the harm reduction behaviours (e.g., limiting consumption, planning use, seeking information) of people who use MDMA, in addition to their use of reagent testing and the major national drug checking and harm reduction service, KnowYourStuffNZ. Results: In total, 915 people completed the survey (60.7% females, aged 18–65, median = 24, IQR = 20–28). Frequency of various MDMA-related harm reduction behaviours differed, although these were carried out relatively frequently by most participants. Those who reported experiencing harm (physical, psychological, spiritual, social) from MDMA, or another drug presumed to be MDMA, reported less frequent harm reduction behaviours than non-harmed consumers. Reagent testing of MDMA had been conducted by 42.3% of the sample. Approximately 27% of the sample had used KnowYourStuffNZ services. Of KnowYourStuffNZ clients, 95.9% reported learning about harm reduction, and 53.3% reported changing their behaviour because of the service. Reasons for not using the KnowYourStuffNZ service were primarily lack of availability in local area (32.8%) or at relevant events (51.8%), and lack of concern with substance quality (29.8%). MDMA harm was reported by 14.4% of the sample, whilst reported harm was more common from consumption of presumably non-MDMA substances, self-reported as being mistaken for MDMA. Harm was primarily physical or psychological. Potential MDMA dependence was apparent in 6.9% of the sample. Conclusions: The findings highlight potential targets for harm reduction education and interventions and emphasize the need for greater availability of readily accessible drug checking services in Aotearoa New Zealand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Individuals exhibiting restrained eating behaviors demonstrate increased inhibitory control when exposed to food-related stimuli, indicating the presence of an automatic food-inhibition association. Existing literature proposes that this association contributes to the devaluation of food within this population. Efforts to disrupt this association by promoting the complete elimination of the inhibition of food responses have resulted in increased food consumption but have also led to heightened food-related anxiety in individuals with restrained eating behaviors. In the current investigation, we investigated whether a novel flexible food response/inhibition computerized task could yield favorable changes in attitudes toward food in individuals with restrained eating. We randomly assigned 78 females who engage in restrained eating to one of three training groups. In the flexible response/inhibition group, participants were instructed to equally inhibit or respond to food stimuli. In the response group, participants consistently responded to food stimuli, while in the inhibition group, participants consistently inhibited their response to food cues. Implicit attitudes toward food were assessed both before and after the manipulation. To examine the stability of the effect of the training, participants also engaged in a seemingly unrelated bogus taste test. Our results revealed that only the flexible response/inhibition group demonstrated a significant improvement in positive attitudes toward high-calorie foods after eating, while there were no observable changes in negative attitudes among the other two groups. These findings suggest that promoting a balance between the responding and inhibiting responses to food stimuli can increase positive attitudes toward food amongst individuals with restrained eating.Plain English Summary: Restrained eaters are individuals who chronically avoid eating to reduce their weight. Researchers have found that these individuals also hold negative attitudes toward food. This may be because of the association created between food and inhibition, our ability to stop an urge or behavior. Researchers attempted to promote healthy eating by training individuals to associate food with disinhibition. This resulted in higher food consumption but it also increased negative attitudes toward food in those individuals. We propose that this is because disinhibition of food is not consistent with the internal goals of these individuals. The current study tested whether training individuals who restrict their eating to respond more flexibly to food would increase positive attitudes toward food. Therefore, we recruited 78 females who restrict their eating into three groups: one where participants were asked to either respond or inhibit their response to images of food in a computerized task, one where participants were asked to respond to all food images, and one where participants were asked to inhibit their response to all food images. We found that only the flexible group showed more positive attitudes toward food. There were no noticeable changes in the attitudes of the other two groups. These findings suggest that encouraging flexible responses/inhibition to food enhances positive attitudes toward food in individuals who restrict their eating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple adjustment difficulties have been associated with children's exposure to recent parental wartime military deployments, but long-term consequences have not yet been systematically studied. This investigation will assess direct and indirect relationships between exposures to parental deployments early in life and later youth adjustment. Parents' psychological health and family processes will be examined as mediators, and parents' and children's vulnerability and support will be examined as moderators. Archival data will be combined with new data gathered from two children and up to two parents in families where children will be aged 11 to 16 at the first data collection and will have experienced at least one parental deployment, for at least one child prior to age 6. Data are being gathered via telephone interviews and web-based surveys conducted twice one year apart. Outcomes are indicators of children's social-emotional development, behavior, and academic performance. Notable features of this study include oversampling of female service members, inclusion of siblings, and inclusion of families of both veterans and currently serving members. This study has potentially important implications for schools, community organizations and health care providers serving current and future cohorts of military and veteran families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vγ9Vδ2 T cells represent a promising cancer therapy platform because the implementation of allogenic, off-the-shelf product candidates is possible. However, intravenous administration of human Vγ9Vδ2 T cells manufactured under good manufacturing practice (GMP)-compliant, serum-free conditions are not tested easily inmostmousemodels,mainly because they lack the ability to migrate from the blood to tissues or tumors. We demonstrate that these T cells do not migrate from the circulation to the mouse bone marrow (BM), the site of many malignancies. Thus, there is a need to better characterize human γδ T-cell migration in vivo and develop strategies to direct these cells to in vivo sites of therapeutic interest. To better understand the migration of these cells and possibly influence their migration, NSG mice were conditioned with agents to clear BM cellular compartments, i.e., busulfan or total body irradiation (TBI), or promote T-cell migration to inflamed BM, i.e., incomplete Freund's adjuvant (IFA), prior to administering γδ T cells. Conditioning with TBI, unlike busulfan or IFA, increases the percentage and number of γδ T cells accumulating in the mouse BM, and cells in the peripheral blood (PB) and BM display identical surface protein profiles. To better understand the mechanism by which cells migrate to the BM, mice were conditioned with TBI and administered γδ T cells or tracker-stained red blood cells. The mechanism by which γδ T cells enter the BM after radiation is passive migration from the circulation, not homing. We tested if these ex vivo-expanded cells can migrate based on chemokine expression patterns and showed that it is possible to initiate homing by utilizing highly expressed chemokine receptors on the expanded γδ T cells. γδ T cells highly express CCR2, which provides chemokine attraction to C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2)-expressing cells. IFNγ-primed mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) (γMSCs) express CCL2, and we developed in vitro and in vivo models to test γδ T-cell homing to CCL2-expressing cells. Using an established neuroblastoma NSG mouse model, we show that intratumorally-injected γMSCs increase the homing of γδ T cells to this tumor. These studies provide insight into the migration of serum-free, ex vivo-expanded Vγ9Vδ2 T cells in NSG mice, which is critical to understanding the fundamental properties of these cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The velocity storage mechanism of the central vestibular system is closely associated with the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR), but also contributes to the sense of orientation in space and the perception of self-motion. We postulate that mal de débarquement syndrome (MdDS) is a consequence of inappropriate sensory adaptation of velocity storage. The premise that a maladapted velocity storage may be corrected by spatial readaptation of the VOR has recently been translated into the development of the first effective treatment for MdDS. However, this treatment's initial impact may be reversed by subsequent re-triggering events. Presently, we hypothesized that MdDS symptoms could alternatively be reduced by attenuating the velocity storage contribution in the central vestibular pathways. Methods: Forty-three patients with MdDS (aged 47 ± 14 yo; 36 women) were randomly assigned to two treatment groups and followed for 6 months. The horizontal VOR was tested with chair rotation during laboratory visits, and the strength of velocity storage was quantified with model-based parameters--the time constant (Tc) and the gain of coupling from the vestibular primary afferent signals (g0). To attenuate velocity storage, Group 1 underwent a progressively intensifying series of low-frequency earth-vertical oscillatory rotation coupled to conflicting visual stimuli. Group 2 underwent an established protocol combining head tilts and visual stimulation, designed to correct maladapted spatial orientation but not change the velocity storage strength. The symptom severity was self-rated on an 11-point scale and reported before and up to 6 months after the treatment. Results: In Group 1, velocity storage was modified through reduction of g0 (p < 0.001) but not Tc. The symptom rating was at least halved initially in 43% of Group 1 (p = 0.04), the majority of whom retained a similar level of improvement during the 6-month follow-up period. In Group 2, no systematic change was induced in the parameters of velocity storage strength, as expected. The symptom rating was at least halved initially in 80% of Group 2 (p < 0.001), but paralleling previous findings, symptoms often returned subsequently. Conclusion: Attenuation of velocity storage shows promise as a lasting remedy for MdDS that can complement the VOR readaptation approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most anti-cancer modalities are designed to directly kill cancer cells deploying mechanisms of action (MOAs) centered on the presence of a precise target on cancer cells. The efficacy of these approaches is limited because the rapidly evolving genetics of neoplasia swiftly circumvents the MOA generating therapy-resistant cancer cell clones. Other modalities engage endogenous anti-cancer mechanisms by activating the multi-cellular network (MCN) surrounding neoplastic cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). These modalities hold a better chance of success because they activate numerous types of immune effector cells that deploy distinct cytotoxic MOAs. This in turn decreases the chance of developing treatment-resistance. Engagement of the MCN can be attained through activation of immune effector cells that in turn kill cancer cells or when direct cancer killing is complemented by the production of proinflammatory factors that secondarily recruit and activate immune effector cells. For instance, adoptive cell therapy (ACT) supplements cancer cell killing with the release of homeostatic and pro-inflammatory cytokines by the immune cells and damage associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) by dying cancer cells. The latter phenomenon, referred to as immunogenic cell death (ICD), results in an exponential escalation of anti-cancer MOAs at the tumor site. Other approaches can also induce exponential cancer killing by engaging the MCN of the TME through the release of DAMPs and additional pro-inflammatory factors by dying cancer cells. In this commentary, we will review the basic principles that support emerging paradigms likely to significantly improve the efficacy of anti-cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Previous studies have shown that anticipatory postural adjustments (APAs) are altered in people with Parkinson's disease but its meaning for locomotion is less understood. This study aims to investigate the association between APAs and gait initiation, gait and freezing of gait and how a dynamic postural control challenging training may induce changes in these features. Methods: Gait initiation was quantified using wearable sensors and subsequent straight walking was assessed via marker-based motion capture. Additionally, turning and FOG-related outcomes were measured with wearable sensors. Assessments were conducted one week before (Pre), one week after (Post) and 4 weeks after (Follow-up) completion of a training intervention (split-belt treadmill training or regular treadmill training), under single task and dual task (DT) conditions. Statistical analysis included a linear mixed model for training effects and correlation analysis between APAs and the other outcomes for Pre and Post-Pre delta. Results: 52 participants with Parkinson's disease (22 freezers) were assessed. We found that APA size in the medio-lateral direction during DT was positively associated with gait speed (p<0.001) and stride length (p<0.001) under DT conditions at Pre. The training effect was largest for first step range of motion and was similar for both training modes. For the associations between changes after the training (pooled sample) medio-lateral APA size showed a significant positive correlation with first step range of motion (p = 0.033) only in the DT condition and for the non-freezers only. Conclusions: The findings of this work revealed new insights into how APAs were not associated with first step characteristics and freezing and only baseline APAs during DT were related with DT gait characteristics. Training-induced changes in the size of APAs were related to training benefits in the first step ROM only in non-freezers. Based on the presented results increasing APA size through interventions might not be the ideal target for overall improvement of locomotion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mounting evidence suggests that the effectiveness of positive psychology interventions is influenced by a variety of factors, including cultural context. Identifying intervention targets that can effectively contribute to improving individual well-being under these boundary conditions is a crucial step when developing viable interventions. To this end, we examined how gratitude disposition, self-esteem, and optimism relate to the subjective well-being (SWB) and psychological well-being (PWB) of Japanese individuals. Methods: Multivariate regression analysis was employed to quantify the unique relationships between the three potential intervention targets and both SWB and PWB, while accounting for the influence of other variables. Participants (N = 71) also engaged in a 4-week experience sampling study to explore how gratitude, self-esteem and optimism shape the link between momentary affective states in everyday life and evaluations of day satisfaction. Results: Multivariate regression analysis revealed that self-esteem was predominantly more strongly associated with SWB compared to gratitude disposition, whereas gratitude disposition was more strongly associated with the PWB dimensions, particularly personal growth, positive relations with others and purpose in life. Experience sampling data indicated that while both gratitude disposition and self-esteem moderated the association between momentary positive affect and day satisfaction evaluations, they did so in opposite ways; greater gratitude disposition strengthened the association, while greater self-esteem weakened it. Conclusions: Overall, the current results suggest that while gratitude, self-esteem, and optimism influence individual well-being as a whole, they likely play distinct roles in facilitating SWB and PWB in the studied cohort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study focuses on college students as research subjects, exploring the relationship between fear of evaluation, ambivalence over emotional expression, and self-care, as well as the moderating effect of self-care on the prediction of ambivalence over emotional expression by fear of evaluation. Methods: This study selected physical education college students in Sichuan Province as the research participants. Convenience sampling was used to recruit participants through public recruitment information and questionnaire links on online platforms commonly used by college students. The questionnaire was distributed at two different time points to reduce the effect of common method bias. A total of 858 questionnaires were distributed, after excluding duplicate responses, a total of 743 valid questionnaires were obtained. Results: The result as following: (1) College students exhibit a moderate to high level of negative fear of evaluation, ambivalence over emotional expression, and self-care, with female students having higher negative fear of evaluation; (2) There are significant correlations between fear of evaluation, ambivalence over emotional expression, and self-care; (3) Fear of evaluation and self-care can predict ambivalence over emotional expression, but self-care does not have a moderating effect on the prediction of ambivalence over emotional expression by fear of evaluation; (4) Self-care and negative self-care both have a moderating effect on the prediction of emotion rumination by positive fear of evaluation. Conclusions: In the past, rumination has often been considered a manifestation of excessive rumination and anxiety. However, this study found that self-compassion's modulation on fear of positive evaluation intensifies its impact on emotional rumination. Research suggests that moderate emotional rumination may not necessarily be a negative outcome and reflects a positive emotional adjustment process to some extent. Therefore, future studies can further explore the growth and decline of internal rumination processes in self-compassion or counseling, and potentially gain a better understanding of key elements of personal growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In diabetic retinopathy (DR), hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF-1α) induces oxidative stress by upregulating glycolysis. This process leads to neurodegeneration, particularly photoreceptor cell damage, which further contributes to retinal microvascular deterioration. Further, the regulation of Wnt-inhibitory factor 1 (WIF1), a secreted Wnt signaling antagonist, has not been fully characterized in neurodegenerative eye diseases. We aimed to explore the impact of WIF1 on photoreceptor function within the context of DR. Method: Twelve-week-old C57BL/KsJ-db/db mice were intravitreally injected with WIF1 overexpression lentivirus. After 4 weeks, optical coherence tomography (OCT), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), H&E staining, and electroretinography (ERG) were used to assess the retinal tissue and function. The potential mechanism of action of WIF1 in photoreceptor cells was explored using single-cell RNA sequencing. Under high-glucose conditions, 661 W cells were used as an in vitro DR model. WIF1-mediated signaling pathway components were assessed using quantitative real-time PCR, immunostaining, and western blotting. Result: Typical diabetic manifestations were observed in db/db mice. Notably, the expression of WIF1 was decreased at the mRNA and protein levels. These pathological manifestations and visual function improved after WIF1 overexpression in db/db mice. TEM demonstrated that WIF1 restored damaged mitochondria, the Golgi apparatus, and photoreceptor outer segments. Moreover, ERG indicated the recovery of a-wave potential amplitude. Single-cell RNA sequencing and in vitro experiments suggested that WIF1 overexpression prevented the expression of glycolytic enzymes and lactate production by inhibiting the canonical Wnt signaling pathway, HIF-1α, and Glut1, thereby reducing retinal and cellular reactive oxygen species levels and maintaining 661 W cell viability. Conclusions: WIF1 exerts an inhibitory effect on the Wnt/β-catenin-HIF-1α-Glut1 glycolytic pathway, thereby alleviating oxidative stress levels and mitigating pathological structural characteristics in retinal photoreceptor cells. This mechanism helps preserve the function of photoreceptor cells in DR and indicates that WIF1 holds promise as a potential therapeutic candidate for DR and other neurodegenerative ocular disorders. Highlights: WIF1 inhibits HIF-1α-Glut1 glycolytic pathway in photoreceptor cells Improves oxidative stress and ameliorates pathological structural characteristics. Helps preserve the function of photoreceptor cells in diabetic retinopathy WIF1 is an excellent candidate for targeted therapy against diabetic retinopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic imbalance is a major complaint of patients suffering from bilateral vestibulopathy (BV) and is often reported by patients with chronic unilateral vestibulopathy (UV), leading to increased risk of falling. We used the Central SensoriMotor Integration (CSMI) test, which evaluates sensory integration, time delay, and motor activation contributions to standing balance control, to determine whether CSMI measures could distinguish between healthy control (HC), UV, and BV subjects and to characterize vestibular, proprioceptive, and visual contributions expressed as sensory weights. We also hypothesized that sensory weight values would be associated with the results of vestibular assessments (vestibulo ocular reflex tests and Dizziness Handicap Inventory scores). Twenty HCs, 15 UVs and 17 BVs performed three CSMI conditions evoking sway in response to pseudorandom (1) surface tilts with eyes open or, (2) surface tilts with eyes closed, and (3) visual surround tilts. Proprioceptive weights were identified in surface tilt conditions and visual weights were identified in the visual tilt condition. BVs relied significantly more on proprioception. There was no overlap in proprioceptive weights between BV and HC subjects and minimal overlap between UV and BV subjects in the eyes-closed surface-tilt condition. Additionally, visual sensory weights were greater in BVs and were similarly able to distinguish BV from HC and UV subjects. We found no significant correlations between sensory weights and the results of vestibular assessments. Sensory weights from CSMI testing could provide a useful measure for diagnosing and for objectively evaluating the effectiveness of rehabilitation efforts and future treatments designed to restore vestibular function such as hair cell regeneration and vestibular implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Mindfulness and mindfulness-related attitudes, which are gaining popularity in the counseling literature and are frequently employed in sessions by mental health professionals, reflect a universal perspective. When examined attentively, mindfulness-related attitudes seem to play an essential part in Turkish culture and Sufism, yet this perspective offered by mindfulness is sometimes misunderstood. From this perspective, the goal of this research is to investigate mindfulness attitudes through the works of Yunus Emre, an influential representative of Turkish culture and Sufism, and to address these attitudes with consideration for Turkish culture and Sufism. Method: The document analysis method was chosen for the study as it is one of the methods used to objectively reveal how the concepts and ideas in the documents relate to the perspectives on the subject under examination. During the procedure, two significant works left behind by Yunus Emre (Risâletu'n-Nushiyye and Divan) were examined. A coding and categorization system was developed, and content analysis was used to analyze the data. Results: Many expressions, teachings, and inferences reflecting mindfulness-related attitudes were found in Yunus Emre's verses. The examples were interpreted within the framework of the concept of mindfulness-related attitudes. Conclusions: It is believed that approaching mindfulness-related attitudes with sensitivity to Turkish culture and Sufism will make it easier for Turkish and Muslim clients to adapt to mindfulness-based techniques and treatment processes, internalize mindfulness-related attitudes, and become more open to these methods. In light of the findings, recommendations were offered to field practitioners and researchers. Preregistration: This study is not preregistered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Chronic alcohol exposure leads to persistent neurological disorders, which are mainly attributed to neuroinflammation and apoptosis. Stimulator of IFN genes (STING) is essential in the cytosolic DNA sensing pathway and is involved in inflammation and cellular death processes. This study was to examine the expression pattern and biological functions of STING signaling in alcohol use disorder (AUD). Methods: Cell‐free DNA was extracted from human and mouse plasma. C57BL/6J mice were given alcohol by gavage for 28 days, and behavior tests were used to determine their mood and cognition. Cultured cells were treated with ethanol for 24 hours. The STING agonist DMXAA, STING inhibitor C‐176, and STING‐siRNA were used to intervene the STING. qPCR, western blot, and immunofluorescence staining were used to assess STING signaling, inflammation, and apoptosis. Results: Circulating cell‐free mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) was increased in individuals with AUD and mice chronically exposed to alcohol. Upregulation of STING signaling under alcohol exposure led to inflammatory responses in BV2 cells and mitochondrial apoptosis in PC12 cells. DMXAA exacerbated alcohol‐induced cognitive impairment and increased the activation of microglia, neuroinflammation, and apoptosis in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), while C‐176 exerted neuroprotection. Conclusion: Activation of STING signaling played an essential role in alcohol‐induced inflammation and mitochondrial apoptosis in the mPFC. This study identifies STING as a promising therapeutic target for AUD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: There are contradictory reports on the effect of cochlear implantation on postural control. Associated vestibular loss, electrode insertion trauma, and electrical stimulus of a cochlear implant can influence postural control. This study focused on the electrical stimulation of the cochlea. We aimed to examine whether a cochlear implant's electrical stimulation affects postural control measured by posturography. Methods: Thirty-three patients with unilateral cochlear implants were included. We used three preprogrammed main tests and their nine subtests in posturography. Postural stability [general stability index (GSI)], fall risk index (FRI), and sensory integration [modified clinical test of sensory integration of balance (m-CTSIB)] were calculated. All tests were performed under three conditions: implant off (1), implant on (2), and implant on music (3). Results: The mean age was 46.29±16.09 years. GSI was above normal limits in 78% of adult cochlear implant users. We found that FRI was high in 30% of patients, and m-CTSIB was defective in 42%. There were no statistically significant differences in GSI, FRI, and m-CTSIB. Cochlear implant stimulation was found to have positively affected postural control when the subject's data were visualized individually. GSI, FRI, and m-CTSIB dropped to 39%, 24%, and 24%, respectively, when music was on. There was a significant correlation between age and fall index. But this correlation disappeared when music was playing. Conclusion: Cochlear implant stimulation affected the vestibular system in almost all patients. The effect was positive in most patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The current study examined the association between moral elevation and college students' sense of meaning of life, along with the potential mediating effects of gratitude and perceived social support on this relationship. Methods: Using the convenience sampling method, the Moral Elevation Scale, the Sense of Meaning of Life Questionnaire, the Gratitude Questionnaire, and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support were used to conduct questionnaire surveys on 1088 college students (Mage=19.59 years, SD=1.46). SPSS25.0 data statistics software was used to analyze the data, and the PROCESS macro for SPSS was used to conduct the mediation effect test. Results: (1) Moral elevation was significantly and positively associated with college students' sense of meaning of life (β = 0.43,p < 0.001). (2) Both gratitude and perceived social support partially mediated the relation between moral elevation and sense of meaning of life. The indirect effect of moral elevation on sense of meaning of life via gratitude was 0.11 (95% CI = [0.0709, 0.1453]), and the mediating effect accounted for 52.71%. The indirect effect of moral elevation on sense of meaning of life via perceived social support was 0.06 (95% CI = [0.0385, 0.0863]), and the mediating effect accounted for 29.41%. (3) Gratitude and perceived social support sequentially mediated the association between moral elevation and sense of meaning of life, the indirect effect through gratitude and perceived social support was 0.04 (95% CI = [0.0237, 0.0512]) and accounted for 17.88%. Conclusion: This study revealed the chain mediating roles of gratitude and perceived social support in the relation between moral elevation and sense of meaning of life for Chinese college students, which is of great theoretical and practical significance for the formation of a positive sense of meaning of life and the cultivation of moral elevation among college students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides an overview of the current views on psychedelics and explores their connection to well-being based on scientific research and anecdotal evidence. The article begins by examining the historical context of psychedelics. It then delves into the subsequent prohibition and resurgence of scientific interest in psychedelics, highlighting key studies that have shaped our understanding of their effects. The discussion then shifts to contemporary research on psychedelics, particularly focusing on their therapeutic potential in treating mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Studies utilizing psychedelics have shown promising results in facilitating transformative experiences and catalyzing lasting psychological benefits. Moreover, the article examines the neurobiological mechanisms underlying the effects of psychedelics, shedding light on how they modulate brain activity and alter perception. In addition to clinical applications, the article explores the growing interest in the potential of psychedelics to enhance well-being in healthy individuals. Anecdotal reports and preliminary research suggest that these substances may induce positive changes in personality traits, attitudes, and behaviors, leading to increased life satisfaction and a greater sense of connectedness with oneself, others, and the natural world. Lastly, the article discusses the public perception of psychedelic substances, the challenges, and the future directions in psychedelic research, including the need for rigorous clinical trials, the development of safe and responsible guidelines for their use, and the exploration of novel therapeutic approaches that integrate psychedelic experiences into psychotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The liver is a vital organ performing essential functions, such as metabolizing substances and secreting enzymes. A liver issue has a comprehensive impact on the entire body. Numerous factors can lead to liver disease, including genetics, immune system issues, malignant tumors, infections, obesity, alcoholism, malnutrition, diabetes, usage of certain medications, and excessive hormone use. The global accessibility of medicinal herbs has consistently motivated people from diverse cultures to explore their potential benefits. The usage of medicinal plants is pervasive across most of the world's civilizations. Because medicinal plants are natural, some people believe that using medicinal plants is beneficial and risk-free. Herbal use is commonly believed to have minimal or no side effects. In this review article, we have thoroughly investigated the impact of select medicinal plants on liver toxicity. Various studies and experiences have shown that some plants used for therapeutic and medicinal purposes can seriously harm the liver or aggravate existing liver conditions. Therefore, utilizing standardized herbal remedies or consultation with a specialist in traditional medicine is required. Our study provides a comprehensive summary of recent research on hepatotoxicity available in esteemed databases such as Google Scholar, Scientific Information, PubMed, and Science Direct. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the influence of human capital and social capital on business model design through the study of the main factors related to the entrepreneur's profile, his network, and the possibility to have access to external resources. The dataset consists of 107 Tunisian companies for the period from December 2014 to March 2016. We use a quantitative survey conducted from a questionnaire. Our results reveal that (i) the experience, the entrepreneur's skills, and entrepreneurship education have a positive and significant impact on business model design; (ii) the family support, support structure, customer, and stakeholder's orientation have a positive and significant impact; and (iii) the effect of the access to external resources, and particularly informational ones, is ostensibly significant on business model design. The access to financial resources, however, has no effect. Overall, this research suggests that the nascent entrepreneur must be aware of his networks (customer, other stakeholders, family support and support structure) and external resources, namely, information resources, and finally he must also have the skills, experience, and level of entrepreneurship education in designing a BM. Thus, the nascent entrepreneur can have an idea about these phenomena through the results found in our research which are also a relevant guide for new Tunisian entrepreneurs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Primary human blood cells represent an essential model system to study physiology and disease. However, human blood is a limited resource. During healthy donor plateletpheresis, the leukoreduction system chamber (LRSC) reduces the leukocyte amount within the subsequent platelet concentrate through saturated, fluidized, particle bed filtration technology. Normally, the LRSC is discarded after apheresis is completed. Compared to peripheral blood, LRSC yields 10-fold mononuclear cell concentration. Methods: To explore if those retained leukocytes are attractive for research purposes, we isolated CD3+ T cells from the usually discarded LRSCs via density gradient centrifugation in order to manufacture CD19-targeted chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. Results: Immunophenotypic characterization revealed viable and normal CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell populations within LRSC, with low CD19+ B cell counts. Magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) purified CD3+ T cells were transduced with CD19 CAR-encoding lentiviral self-inactivating vectors using concentrated viral supernatants. Robust CD19 CAR cell surface expression on transduced T cells was confirmed by flow cytometry. CD19 CAR T cells were further enriched through anti-CAR MACS, yielding 80% CAR+ T-cell populations. In vitro CAR T cell expansion to clinically relevant numbers was achieved. To prove functionality, CAR T cells were co-incubated with the human CD19+ B cell precursor leukemia cell line Nalm6. Compared to unmodified T cells, CD19 CAR T cells effectively eradicated Nalm6 cells. Conclusion: Taken together, we can show that lymphocytes isolated from LRSCs of plateletpheresis sets can be efficiently used for the generation of functional CAR T cells for experimental purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An electrolyte destined for use in a dual‐ion battery (DIB) must be stable at the inherently high potential required for anion intercalation in the graphite electrode, while also protecting the Al current collector from anodic dissolution. A higher salt concentration is needed in the electrolyte, in comparison to typical battery electrolytes, to maximize energy density, while ensuring acceptable ionic conductivity and operational safety. In recent years, studies have demonstrated that highly concentrated organic electrolytes, ionic liquids, gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs), ionogels, and water‐in‐salt electrolytes can potentially be used in DIBs. GPEs can help reduce the use of solvents and thus lead to a substantial change in the Coulombic efficiency, energy density, and long‐term cycle life of DIBs. Furthermore, GPEs are suited to manufacture compact DIB designs without separators by virtue of their mechanical strength and electrical performance. In this review, we highlight the latest advances in the application of different electrolytes in DIBs, with particular emphasis on GPEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

γδ T cells are important components of the immune system due to their ability to elicit a fast and strong response against infected and transformed cells. Because they can specifically and effectively kill target cells in an MHC independent fashion, there is great interest to utilize these cells in anti-tumor therapies where antigen presentation may be hampered. Since only a small fraction of T cells in the blood or tumor tissue are γδ T cells, they require extensive expansion to allow for fundamental, preclinical and ex vivo research. Although expansion protocols can be successful, most are based on depletion of other cell types rather than γδ T cell specific isolation, resulting in unpredictable purity of the isolated fraction. Moreover, the primary focus only lies with expansion of Vd2+ T cells, while Vd1+ T cells likewise have anti-tumor potential. Here, we investigated whether γδ T cells directly isolated from blood could be efficiently expanded while maintaining function. γδ T cell subsets were isolated using MACS separation, followed by FACS sorting, yielding >99% pure γδ T cells. Isolated Vd1+ and Vd2+ T cells could effectively expand immediately after isolation or upon freeze/thawing and reached expansion ratios between 200 to 2000-fold starting from varying numbers using cytokine supported feeder stimulations. MACS/FACS isolated and PHA stimulated γδ T cells expanded as good as immobilized antibody mediated stimulated cells in PBMCs, but delivered purer cells. After expansion, potential effector functions of γδ T cells were demonstrated by IFN-g, TNF-a and granzyme B production upon PMA/ionomycin stimulation and effective killing capacity of multiple tumor cell lines was confirmed in killing assays. In conclusion, pure γδ T cells can productively be expanded while maintaining their anti-tumor effector functions against tumor cells. Moreover, γδ T cells could be expanded from low starting numbers suggesting that this protocol may even allow for expansion of cells extracted from tumor biopsies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study primarily aimed to understand whether individual factors could predict how people perceive and evaluate artworks that are perceived to be produced by AI. Additionally, the study attempted to investigate and confirm the existence of a negative bias toward AI-generated artworks and to reveal possible individual factors predicting such negative bias. A total of 201 participants completed a survey, rating images on liking, perceived positive emotion, and believed human or AI origin. The findings of the study showed that some individual characteristics as creative personal identity and openness to experience personality influence how people perceive the presented artworks in function of their believed source. Participants were unable to consistently distinguish between human and AI-created images. Furthermore, despite generally preferring the AI-generated artworks over human-made ones, the participants displayed a negative bias against AI-generated artworks when subjective perception of source attribution was considered, thus rating as less preferable the artworks perceived more as AI-generated, independently on their true source. Our findings hold potential value for comprehending the acceptability of products generated by AI technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rich and complex temporal structure of variability in postural sway characterizes healthy and adaptable postural control. However, neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease, which often manifest as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia, disrupt this healthy variability. This study examined postural sway in young and older adults, including individuals with Parkinson's disease, under different upright standing conditions to investigate the potential connection between the temporal structure of variability in postural sway and Parkinsonism. A novel and innovative method called oriented fractal scaling component analysis was employed. This method involves decomposing the two-dimensional center of pressure (CoP) planar trajectories to pinpoint the directions associated with minimal and maximal temporal correlations in postural sway. As a result, it facilitates a comprehensive assessment of the directional characteristics within the temporal structure of sway variability. The results demonstrated that healthy young adults control posture along two orthogonal directions closely aligned with the traditional anatomical anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) axes. In contrast, older adults and individuals with Parkinson's disease controlled posture along suborthogonal directions that significantly deviate from the AP and ML axes. These findings suggest that the altered temporal structure of sway variability is evident in individuals with Parkinson's disease and underlies postural deficits, surpassing what can be explained solely by the natural aging process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]