Related metacognitions, desire thinking and identity differentially predict compulsion and withdrawal symptoms in problematic Instagram use

Work has identified that metacognitive thought results in desire-based thinking and perpetuates the magnitude and severity of maladaptive behaviour including problematic social media use, and also that one's ingroup identity is related to increasing problematic behaviour. No evidence has ascertained the relative contribution of these as related differential factors in the experience of problematic social media use. The current study explored the comparative importance of components of desire thinking, positive and negative metacognitions and dimensions of ingroup identity on degree of problematic use among 147 current Instagram users. Results showed that for predicting general problematic Instagram use negative metacognitive beliefs and the verbal perseverance component of desire-based thinking were significant. Importantly, however, different factors appeared to be important for predicting distinct aspects of problematic Instagram. For compulsivity indicators, negative metacognitions and verbal perseveration were essential, whereas for the withdrawal component identity centrality (and no other dimensions of identity) and imaginal prefiguration emerge as the sole independent predictors.

Body-Positive Instagram Exposure and Young Women's Body Image: The Mediating Role of Appearance Comparison and Broadly Conceptualizing Beauty

Evidence is mixed as to whether viewing body-positive content on social media can cultivate positive body image in women. Body-positive exposure has been linked to positive (e.g. body satisfaction) and negative (e.g. self-objectification) outcomes. To increase our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the relationship between body-positive social media exposure and positive body image, this study tested two mediators: upward appearance comparisons and broad conceptualization of beauty. Combining insights from social comparison theory, objectification theory, and the acceptance model of body appreciation, we examined whether broadly conceptualizing beauty and engaging in fewer upward appearance comparisons can connect body-positive exposure on Instagram to decreased body surveillance and increased body appreciation. A sample of 345 young women (Mage = 21.65, SD = 1.70) participated in an online survey. Parallel mediation analyses showed that higher relative exposure to body-positive content on Instagram was indirectly related to decreased body surveillance and increased body appreciation, via lower engagement in upward appearance comparisons and a broader conceptualizing beauty. Taken together, body-positive posts on Instagram can positively contribute to women's body image, if they stimulate protective filtering of idealized content, decrease the relevance of idealized models as comparison targets, and increase perceptions of unconditional body appreciation by others.

Validity and Reliability of the Empowered Veteran Index-Short Form (EVI-SF)

PURPOSE

Veteran empowerment may include connection, community impact, and personal growth. At least one valid and reliable tool has been developed to measure the aforementioned framework: the empowered veteran index (EVI). However, there is a need for a shorter measure to prevent survey fatigue.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We recruited military veteran members of a nonprofit (n = 316), The Mission Continues, for participation in this cross-sectional online survey study. Participants completed the 35-item EVI. A short form of the EVI (EVI-SF) was developed through bifactor confirmatory factor analysis (CFA).

RESULTS

The 10-item EVI-SF model demonstrated satisfactory performance (χ2 p = 0.68, SRMR = 0.02, RMSEA = 0.01, CFI = 0.99, TLI = 0.99). All factor loadings in this model were ≥ 0.30, providing evidence for the validity of the interval structure. Internal consistency reliability was good for all three subscales (omegas >0.7).

DISCUSSION

Analysis of the EVI-SF showed that the instrument was valid and reliable. The EVI-SF contains 10 items with seven-point Likert scale response options. Use of the instrument may provide for the opportunity to measure empowerment of military veterans.

CONCLUSION

This study provides preliminary psychometric validation of the EVI-SF.

Endemic species analysis: Foliar epidermal anatomical characters of Aster glehnii F. Schmidt (Asteraceae)

The classification and identification of Aster glehnii F. Schmidt are determined from its foliar epidermal anatomical features. Scanning electronic microscopy has been used to determine the foliar epidermal anatomical characteristics of the species in detail. This study compared the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of the leaf epidermis of A. glehnii for taxonomic identification to be used as a reference for future studies on the species. A. glehnii has smooth, thin cuticles, depressed anomocytic stomata dispersed randomly throughout the leaf surface, polygonal epidermal cells with straight to slightly curved anticlinal walls, and no trichomes. There are obvious veins containing thick-walled bundle sheath cells. The stomatal density is between 100 and 150 stomata per millimeter. The vein density ranges from five to 10 veins per millimeter, and the epidermal cells are 10 to 20 μm long and 5 to 10 μm in width. Understanding the connections between the different A. glehnii species and categorizing and identifying them depend heavily on these foliar epidermal structural features. Taxonomy and conservation are closely intertwined because the former serves as the basis for comprehending and safeguarding biodiversity. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Optical microscopy of the A. glehnii leaf epidermis for taxonomic identification SEM was used to identify and authenticate endemic species Microscopic identification of endemic species can assist in the conservation.

Identifying definite patterns of unmet needs in patients with multiple sclerosis using unsupervised machine learning

INTRODUCTION

People with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) exhibit a spectrum of needs that extend beyond solely disease-related determinants. Investigating unmet needs from the patient perspective may address daily difficulties and optimize care. Our aim was to identify patterns of unmet needs among PwMS and their determinants.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional multicentre study. Data were collected through an anonymous, self-administered online form. To cluster PwMS according to their main unmet needs, we performed agglomerative hierarchical clustering algorithm. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to visualize cluster distribution. Pairwise comparisons were used to evaluate demographics and clinical distribution among clusters.

RESULTS

Out of 1764 mailed questionnaires, we received 690 responses. Access to primary care was the main contributor to the overall unmet need burden. Four patterns were identified: cluster C1, 'information-seekers with few unmet needs'; cluster C2, 'high unmet needs'; cluster C3, 'socially and assistance-dependent'; cluster C4, 'self-sufficient with few unmet needs'. PCA identified two main components in determining the patterns: the 'public sphere' (access to information and care) and the 'private sphere' (need for assistance and social life). Older age, lower education, longer disease duration and higher disability characterized clusters with more unmet needs in the private sphere. However, demographic and clinical factors failed in explaining the four identified patterns.

CONCLUSION

Our study identified four unmet need patterns among PwMS, emphasizing the importance of personalized care. While clinical and demographic factors provide some insight, additional variables warrant further investigation to fully understand unmet needs in PwMS.

Supporting Ontario public health units to address adverse childhood experiences in pandemic recovery planning: A priority-setting exercise

BACKGROUND

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic exposures experienced during childhood, for example, neglect. There is growing evidence that the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and related socioeconomic conditions contributed to an increased risk of ACEs. As public health programs/services are re-evaluated and restored following the state of emergency, it is important to plan using an ACEs-informed lens. The aim of this study was to identify and prioritize initiatives or activities that Public Health Ontario (PHO) could undertake to support Ontario public health units' work towards ACEs-informed pandemic recovery plans.

METHODS

The Child Health and Nutrition Research Initiative method was adapted to conduct a priority-setting exercise (May-October 2022). Two online surveys were administered with members of the Healthy Growth and Development (HGD) Evidence Network, comprised of public health unit staff working in child and family health/HGD from Ontario's 34 public health units. In the first survey, participants were asked to propose activities or initiatives that PHO could undertake to support Ontario public health units' work towards ACEs-informed planning. In the second survey, participants were asked to score the final list of options against pre-determined prioritization criteria (for example, relevance). Responses were numerically coded and used to calculate prioritization scores, which were used to rank the options.

RESULTS

In all, 76% of public health units (n = 26) responded to the first survey to identify options. The 168 proposed ideas were consolidated into a final list of 13 options, which fall under PHO's scientific and technical support mandate areas (data and surveillance, evidence synthesis, collaboration and networking, knowledge exchange and research). A total of 79% of public health units (n = 27) responded to the follow-up survey to prioritize options. Prioritization scores ranged from 76.4% to 88.6%. The top-ranked option was the establishment of a new provincial ACEs community of practice.

CONCLUSIONS

Over three quarters of public health units contributed to identifying and ranking 13 options for PHO to support public health units in considering and addressing ACEs through pandemic recovery planning. In consultation with the ACEs and Resilience Community of Practice, recently formed on the basis of this exercise, PHO will continue to use the ranked list of options to inform work-planning activities/priorities.

Home Learning Environment and Screen Time Differentially Mediate the Relationship Between Socioeconomic Status and Preschoolers' Learning and Behavioural Profiles

Environmental variables related to the home context, including home literacy and numeracy, screen exposure and Socioeconomic Status (SES) are potential risks or protective factors for children's academic achievements and behaviour. The present multi-informant study aims to contribute to this issue by investigating SES's direct and indirect relationships in early learning (i.e., literacy, numeracy, and cognitive) and behavioural skills within a large sample of young children. One parent and one teacher for each of 1660 preschoolers filled out a questionnaire investigating SES, tablet and TV use, home learning activities, behavioural problems/strengths (parents' questionnaire), and children's learning skills and behaviour (teachers' questionnaire). Results of path analysis showed that tablet time and home learning environment mediate the effect of SES on early learning as assessed by teachers; as for the home learning environment, it was also a mediator of the relationship between SES and behavioural problems. Implications of these results for research in the field and educational policies are discussed.

Feeling phony online - The impostor phenomenon's link to online self-presentation, self-esteem, and social network site use

This study examined the relationship between the impostor phenomenon, self-esteem, online self-presentation, and social network site usage across Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Tinder. The sample consisted of n = 541 individuals (46 % men; Mage = 27, SDage = 8.5). In addition to demographics, quantitative social network site use metrics, and self-esteem, the impostor expression emerged as an incremental predictor for the online self-presentation facets adaptable self (β = 0.26, p < .001), authentic self (β = -0.29, p < .001) and freedom of self online (β = 0.25, p < .001). Self-esteem partially mediated the impostor expression's effect on the authentic self. Findings suggest that a high impostor expression links to lower online authenticity, higher online self-adaption, and a preference for online communication and self-presentation.

Can #chatsafe support parents and carers beyond Australia? A qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Rates of self-harm and suicide are rising for young people globally and many implicate social media in this problem. To address this concern and to increase the confidence of adults to communicate safely about suicide and social media with young people, the #chatsafe Guide for Parents and Carers was developed in Australia. With significant uptake of the resource among Australian adults, the aim of the current study was to update and contextualise the #chatsafe Guide for Parents and Carers for audiences in 15 countries globally. To improve the relevance of this resource for parents and carers in these countries, the present study sought to understand the concerns held by parents, carers and suicide prevention professionals around the world about these topics and to explore the extent to which a resource such as #chatsafe would be helpful within their communities.

METHODS

Seven focus groups were conducted via Zoom with parents, carers and suicide prevention professionals (n = 40) from 15 countries. Transcribed data were coded and thematically analysed using both inductive and deductive processes.

RESULTS

Six themes are reported: (1) Two scary 'S' words; (2) Country and culture impact who talks (or is silent) about self-harm and suicide; (3) The need for a protective social ecosystem; (4) #chatsafe is a tool that can help parents, carers and young people worldwide; (5) #chatsafe should consider local context and end users to improve its relevance for parents and carers worldwide; and (6) A range of marketing and dissemination strategies are needed to reach adults with #chatsafe information. Findings of this study informed the update and contextualisation of the #chatsafe Guide for Parents and Carers for adult audiences in 15 countries.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings from this study underscore a universal need for psychoeducation initiatives that provide adults with the skills and knowledge to support the mental health of young people, both online and offline, and that resources like #chastafe can play an important role in providing reliable information about these topics to adults across a range of cultures and contexts.

The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the effectiveness of psychosomatic rehabilitation in Germany

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study is to investigate the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the effectiveness of psychosomatic rehabilitation.

METHODS

Between April 2019 and March 2022, a total of 18,388 patients from 7 rehabilitation centres could be included in the study. For each patient, score values from the HEALTH-49 and ICF AT-50 Psych questionnaires were calculated at the beginning and at the end of rehabilitation and the effectiveness of the rehabilitation program was determined by comparing the scores at the beginning and at the end of the rehabilitation programme. Using risk adjusted linear mixed models, three time intervals were compared: a pre-pandemic episode (April 2019 to March 2020), the first year of the pandemic (April 2020 to March 2021) and the second year of the pandemic (April 2021 to March 2022).

RESULTS

Overall, it can be stated that the pandemic has substantially impaired the effectiveness of psychosomatic rehabilitation measures. This phenomenon can be observed across a wide range of psychosocial markers and even two years after the start of the pandemic there is no end to the limited effectiveness. With regard to 'psychological and somatoform disorders', for example, there was a relative decrease in the effectiveness of the rehabilitation measure by 11.29% in the first year of the pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic episode, p < 0.001. In the second year of the pandemic, the effectiveness of the rehabilitation measure was still decreased by 8.8% compared to the pre-pandemic episode, p < 0.001. In addition, the evaluations show that a division of the pandemic effect into direct effects (on the individual) and indirect effects (via further complication of the occupational problem environment) can be made and that the pandemic-related complication of the occupational problem environment are still prevalent more than two years after the start of the pandemic.

DISCUSSION

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the psychosomatic rehabilitation programs reducing the effectiveness of treatment not only for a short period of time but constantly until March 2022.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

DRKS00029669; Date of registration: 02/08/2022.

The role of a Medical Examiner Service in an acute NHS hospital: Perspectives from doctors and next of kin

A new Medical Examiner system was introduced in England and Wales in 2019 to scrutinise all non-coronial deaths. The three key roles of independent Medical Examiner scrutiny are to establish accurate causes of death, determine whether coronial referral is required and identify any care concerns. This is the first published service evaluation exploring the views of doctors and next of kin with whom Medical Examiner Services interact. The aims were to understand whether the Medical Examiner Service was achieving its three main roles. Surveys were sent electronically to the qualified attending practitioners, and by post to the next of kin, of a consecutive series of deceased patients reviewed by an acute NHS hospital Medical Examiner Service in the East of England. Recruitment took place over a five month period in 2023. Results are based on 100 returned surveys from doctors (response rate 35%) and 179 completed by next of kin (response rate 65%). Findings suggest the Medical Examiner Service was successfully achieving its three key roles and well received by both doctors and next of kin. Service user feedback is clearly important as Medical Examiner Services continue to develop into the statutory phase during 2024, when they are anticipated to review approximately 400,000 deaths per annum in England and Wales. This study demonstrates such feedback is not only useful for service development, but also eminently possible.

From temperament to YouTube: exploring the link between childhood temperament, YouTube usage patterns, and emotional/behavioral problems among children

BACKGROUND

YouTube is a widely used video sharing and social networking platform among children and adolescents. However, research on YouTube usage among this population remains scarce. Specifically, studies on factors that influence children and adolescents' usage are clinically significant but largely lacking. Additionally, few studies have examined the association between usage and emotional/behavioral problems, which is fundamental to smartphone research. Therefore, this study explored the relationship between early childhood temperament, subsequent YouTube usage patterns, and emotional/behavioral problems.

METHODS

The Kids Cohort for Understanding Internet Addiction Risk Factors in Early Childhood (K-CURE) is the first long-term prospective cohort study in Korea aimed at understanding the long-term effects of media exposure on young children. The study included 195 children aged 8-11 years enrolled in the K-CURE study. Caregivers, predominantly mothers, who voluntarily participated during their visits to community centers for children's mental health in Korea's major cities, completed a detailed self-administered survey. Childhood temperament was measured in 2018 when the children were 5-8 years old. Subsequent YouTube usage patterns and emotional/behavioral problems were assessed in 2021. Data were analyzed using frequency analysis, correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression.

RESULTS

The study found that 21.0% of children started using YouTube before age 4, with the most common onset age being 8-9 years (30.3%). These children used YouTube on average 4.8 days per week for 68.5 min per day. Early childhood persistence was negatively associated with the subsequent YouTube usage duration, and the age at first YouTube use was negatively correlated with subsequent usage frequency. Furthermore, a younger age at first YouTube use and higher usage frequency were significantly associated with increased emotional/behavioral problems.

CONCLUSIONS

In the YouTube environment, where content is automatically recommended based on user preferences, traits related to usage patterns may be associated with persistence, which is linked to self-regulation. Considering the current trend where children use smartphones, contents frequently for very short durations, our findings highlight the importance of self-regulation in the media usage of children who are still developing. Additionally, our results provide fundamental information for future YouTube studies and illustrate similarities and differences between smartphone and YouTube research.

A qualitative content analysis of cannabis-related discussions on Reddit during the COVID-19 pandemic

Social media has become an increasingly important way to seek and share experiences, support, knowledge, and advice during the COVID-19 pandemic. Reddit, a pseudonymous social media platform, was one way that young people interacted during the pandemic. Our study goals were two-fold: (1) to categorize information sought and provided by users of r/saplings, a subreddit devoted to cannabis use and is often used by young people, and (2) to examine if conversations changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. We extracted 213 randomly selected posts and 2,546 related comments across four time periods (before the pandemic, during the first wave, summer, and next fall). We assessed the volume of posts and comments throughout our study period and conducted a qualitative content analysis. Quantitatively, the findings demonstrated an increase in the number of posts and comments throughout the study period. Given the substantial growth in subreddit activity throughout our study period, Reddit may play an increasingly important role in youth socialization related to cannabis. From the content analysis, we identified three major themes: how to acquire cannabis, how to use cannabis, and associated consequences. Reddit-users prioritized certain content in their posts at different stages of the pandemic. 'Places to acquire' and 'future use' were most common at the beginning of the pandemic, while the theme of 'consequences' and the topic of 'tolerance' became more prominent during the summer months. The comments to these posts were generally thorough and responsive to the post. Nearly all the information came from opinions or personal experiences. Firstly, our findings suggest that young people viewed Reddit as a viable outlet for conversations about cannabis. Secondly, due to the nature of the peer comments and lack of verifiable information being exchanged, misinformation may still circulate and inadvertently worsen the efforts to reduce cannabis-related harm. Interventions that provide understandable and accurate cannabis-related information in accessible formats may increase young people's ability to access and practice harm reduction.

A systematic review on EEG-based neuromarketing: recent trends and analyzing techniques

Neuromarketing is an emerging research field that aims to understand consumers' decision-making processes when choosing which product to buy. This information is highly sought after by businesses looking to improve their marketing strategies by understanding what leaves a positive or negative impression on consumers. It has the potential to revolutionize the marketing industry by enabling companies to offer engaging experiences, create more effective advertisements, avoid the wrong marketing strategies, and ultimately save millions of dollars for businesses. Therefore, good documentation is necessary to capture the current research situation in this vital sector. In this article, we present a systematic review of EEG-based Neuromarketing. We aim to shed light on the research trends, technical scopes, and potential opportunities in this field. We reviewed recent publications from valid databases and divided the popular research topics in Neuromarketing into five clusters to present the current research trend in this field. We also discuss the brain regions that are activated when making purchase decisions and their relevance to Neuromarketing applications. The article provides appropriate illustrations of marketing stimuli that can elicit authentic impressions from consumers' minds, the techniques used to process and analyze recorded brain data, and the current strategies employed to interpret the data. Finally, we offer recommendations to upcoming researchers to help them investigate the possibilities in this area more efficiently in the future.

Can deepfakes be used to study emotion perception? A comparison of dynamic face stimuli

Video recordings accurately capture facial expression movements; however, they are difficult for face perception researchers to standardise and manipulate. For this reason, dynamic morphs of photographs are often used, despite their lack of naturalistic facial motion. This study aimed to investigate how humans perceive emotions from faces using real videos and two different approaches to artificially generating dynamic expressions - dynamic morphs, and AI-synthesised deepfakes. Our participants perceived dynamic morphed expressions as less intense when compared with videos (all emotions) and deepfakes (fearful, happy, sad). Videos and deepfakes were perceived similarly. Additionally, they perceived morphed happiness and sadness, but not morphed anger or fear, as less genuine than other formats. Our findings support previous research indicating that social responses to morphed emotions are not representative of those to video recordings. The findings also suggest that deepfakes may offer a more suitable standardized stimulus type compared to morphs. Additionally, qualitative data were collected from participants and analysed using ChatGPT, a large language model. ChatGPT successfully identified themes in the data consistent with those identified by an independent human researcher. According to this analysis, our participants perceived dynamic morphs as less natural compared with videos and deepfakes. That participants perceived deepfakes and videos similarly suggests that deepfakes effectively replicate natural facial movements, making them a promising alternative for face perception research. The study contributes to the growing body of research exploring the usefulness of generative artificial intelligence for advancing the study of human perception.

Effects of mobile Internet use on the health of middle-aged and older adults: evidences from China health and retirement longitudinal study

The rapid development of digital technology has radically changed people's lives. Simultaneously, as the population is rapidly aging, academic research is focusing on the use of Internet technology to improve middle-aged and older people's health, particularly owing to the popularity of mobile networks, which has further increased the population's accessibility to the Internet. However, related studies have not yet reached a consensus. Herein, empirical analysis of the influence of mobile Internet use on the subjective health and chronic disease status of individuals in their Middle Ages and above was conducted utilizing ordered logit, propensity score matching (PSM), and ordered probit models with data from the 2020 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. The study aimed to provide a theoretical basis and reference for exploring technological advances to empower the development of a healthy Chinese population and to advance the process of healthy aging. The health of middle-aged and older adults mobile Internet users was greatly improved, according to our findings. Further, the use of mobile Internet by these persons resulted in improvements to both their self-assessed health and the state of their chronic diseases. As per the findings of the heterogeneity analysis, the impact of mobile Internet use was shown to be more pronounced on the well-being of middle-aged persons aged 45-60 years compared to those aged ≥ 60 years. Further, the endogeneity test revealed that the PSM model could better eliminate bias in sample selection. The results suggest that the estimates are more robust after eliminating endogeneity, and that failure to disentangle sample selectivity bias would overestimate not only the facilitating effect of mobile Internet use on the self-assessed health impacts of middle-aged and older adults, but also the ameliorating effect of mobile Internet use on the chronic diseases of middle-aged and older adults. The results of the mechanistic analysis suggest that social engagement is an important mediating mechanism between mobile Internet use and the health of middle-aged and older adults. This implies that mobile Internet use increases opportunities for social participation among middle-aged and older adults, thereby improving their health.

Association of Social Media Use Disorder and Orthorexia Nervosa Among Lebanese University Students: The Indirect Effect of Loneliness and Factor Structure of the Social Media Use Disorder Short Form and the Jong-Gierveld Loneliness Scales

The current study aims to examine the relationship between Social Media Use Disorder (SMUD) and Orthorexia Nervosa (ON), and evaluate the indirect effect of loneliness in this association. This cross-sectional study was carried out between July and September 2021. A total of 363 university students were recruited through convenience sampling through several universities in Lebanon's governorates. Data about information about the social media applications mostly used (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, etc.), the number of times of entry to social media applications, the time spent on these applications, ON, loneliness and SMUD, were also collected. The Mplus v.7.2 software was used to estimate categorical confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) of the SMD and loneliness scales. The one-factorial model of the SMD scale fitted well according to χ2/df (69.71/27 = 2.58), TLI (.967), CFI (.956), and RMSEA values (.066; CI [.047-.085]; pclose = .079). The one-factorial model of the loneliness scale fitted well according to χ2/df (10.30/5 = 2.06) TLI (=0.97), CFI (=0.98), and RMSEA values (=0.054; CI [0.000-0.101]; pclose = 0.379). When entering the social media applications and time spent on these applications as independent variables in a first regression model, using Instagram (Beta = 2.73), using Tumblr (Beta = 3.22), spending 30-60 minutes per day on social media apps compared to less than 30 minutes (Beta = 2.33), higher physical activity index (Beta = 0.04) and loneliness (Beta = 0.67) were significantly associated with more ON. When entering the SMUD score as an independent variable in a second regression model, the results showed that higher SMUD (Beta = 0.50) was significantly associated with more ON. Also, loneliness played a partial indirect role in the association between SMUD and ON (by 16%). The current results can help mental health professionals better detect these potential psychological disorders and might help improve future treatment of issues related to ON and SMUD.

The mediating role of trait mindfulness and dissociative experiences in the relationship between childhood emotional abuse and problematic internet use in Italian adolescents

There is clear evidence linking trauma, mindfulness, dissociation and problematic internet use (PIU). Nonetheless, little is known about the role trait mindfulness and dissociative experiences may have in the relationship between childhood emotional abuse (CEA) and PIU, as well as the role that gender may have in such relationships. In the current research, self-report questionnaires on CEA, trait mindfulness, dissociative experiences and PIU were administered to 1074 Italian adolescents (50% females) aged 14-17 years old, to test whether trait mindfulness and dissociative experiences mediated the relationship between CEA and PIU, and whether the proposed mediation was invariant across genders. Furthermore, the main analyses were controlled for background variables. The findings highlighted significant associations between all direct and indirect paths and invariance of the mediation model across boys and girls. The results of this study highlight that emotionally abused boys and girls with high levels of dissociation and inadequate mindful skills may be more exposed to dysfunctional online activities. Hence, developing dissociation-focused and mindfulness-based interventions for emotionally abused adolescents may be clinically effective when building tailored approaches for the prevention and management of PIU. Further implications are discussed.

Does identity as a drinker predict problem recognition motivation in harmful drinkers?

Harmful drinking is associated with significant negative health and social outcomes, but drinkers are reticent to recognise personal drinking problems, hindering natural recovery or help-seeking. Recent evidence suggests that social identity as a drinker is associated with various drinking-related factors but has not been examined in relation to likelihood of problem recognition. In a group of ninety-six harmful drinkers (61 females, M age = 34 years) we explored how identity components associated with ingroup self-investment and ingroup self-definition in combination with implicit identity as a drinker accounted for degrees of problem recognition. In addition to demographic information, addiction experience and drinking behaviour (AUDIT), respondents completed measures of ingroup self-investment (identity centrality, solidarity, and satisfaction), ingroup self-definition (ingroup homogeneity and self-stereotyping), a "self as drinker" identity implicit association test and problem recognition (four items from the Stages of Change Readiness and Treatment Eagerness Scale). After controlling for possible covariates (age, gender and alcohol addiction experience) increased problem recognition was accounted for by explicit and not implicit identity components. More specifically, increasing perceived chronic saliency of one's drinker identity (self-investment in the drinker ingroup) and not an implicit association between the self and being a drinker was related to increased likelihood of problem recognition. This suggests that how chronically and explicitly accessible the identity of the drinker is for individuals might operate to stimulate the willingness or motivation to recognise potential drinking related harm.

Motivation to learn in university science students studying anatomy: A mixed-methods analysis of what drives learning

Exploring student motivation to learn is a research area that has rapidly expanded over the past decade, especially as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to influence education. In the field of anatomy, most research about motivation to learn targets medical and other health professional students, but little is known about factors that drive students enrolled in science degrees. The aims of this mixed-methods study were to determine: (1) what motivates undergraduate university science students to learn anatomy, and whether motivation differs between cohorts (second- and third-year) and gender; and (2) the impact of COVID-19 on motivation to learn. Students (n = 171) completed a survey (the Science Motivation Questionnaire II [SMQII] and questions about learning experiences during the pandemic) and a subset (n = 12) participated in focus groups/interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using a combination of parametric and non-parametric statistics, and a general inductive approach was applied to qualitative data. Grade, intrinsic, and career factors were consistently identified as the key components of motivation. No statistically significant differences were found for motivation components between level of study or gender. Students reported that the COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted motivational components, but it had also fast-tracked the development of online learning, with both positive and negative connotations. Students value traditional in-person lectures but support a blended approach of traditional and online teaching methods for learning anatomy. Educators should utilize these findings when considering how to teach and support science students in ways that embrace motivational components to foster success in those studying anatomy.

The Neuropsychological Assessment of Unilateral Spatial Neglect Through Computerized and Virtual Reality Tools: A Scoping Review

Unilateral Spatial Neglect is a disabling neuropsychological deficit. Patients with spatial neglect fail to detect and report events, and to perform actions in the side of space contralateral to a hemispheric cerebral lesion. Neglect is assessed by evaluating the patients' abilities in daily life activities and by psychometric tests. Computer-based, portable and Virtual Reality technologies may provide more and precise data, and be more sensitive and informative, compared to current paper-and-pencil procedures. Studies since 2010, in which such technologies have been used, are reviewed. Forty-two articles meeting inclusion criteria are categorized according to their technological approaches (computer-, graphics tablet or tablet-, virtual reality-based assessment, and other). The results are promising. However, a definite golden standard, technologically based procedure cannot be still established. Developing technologically based tests is a laborious process, which requires technical and user experience improvements as well as normative data, to increase the evidence of efficacy for clinical evaluation of at least some of the tests considered in this review.

Social anxiety and problematic social media use: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Some theories posit a close relationship between social anxiety and problematic social media use; however, empirical findings are inconsistent, and existing hypotheses are conflicting. Hence, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to clarify the relationship between social anxiety and problematic social media use. After searching and screening the literature, we identified 53 studies, including 59,928 participants and 56 effect sizes, for analysis. A meta-analysis was subsequently performed using CMA software. Results showed that social anxiety and problematic social media use were highly positively correlated. The moderating effect results suggested that the relationship between social anxiety and problematic social media use was influenced by the measurement instrument, sex, publication year, and platform type; however, the relationship was not moderated by region and age. It is suggested to consider social anxiety in the treatment of problematic social media use.

A Daily Diary Investigation of the Fear of Missing Out and Diminishing Daily Emotional Well-Being: The Moderating Role of Cognitive Reappraisal

With modern societies becoming ever-increasingly interconnected due to technology and media, we have gained unprecedented access and exposure to other people's lives. This has resulted in a greater desire to constantly be socially connected with the activities of others, or the fear of missing out (FoMO). While much of the present available research has established the association between FoMO and diminished emotional well-being, little has been done to identify protective factors that can help one cope with the negative psychological consequences of FoMO. Utilizing data from a 7-day diary study of a large sample of young adults (N = 261), the current study aimed to examine the moderating role of cognitive reappraisal in attenuating diminished emotional well-being associated with FoMO. Multilevel modeling showed that cognitive reappraisal attenuated the day-to-day within-person associations between daily FoMO and indicators of daily emotional well-being such as negative affectivity, anxiety, and depressive symptoms.

The Role of Cooperative Extension in Delivering Training and Technical Assistance to Support Evidence-Based Behavioral Health Practices in Rural Communities

The opioid epidemic in the United States continues to disproportionately affect those in rural, compared to urban, areas due to a variety of treatment and recovery barriers. One mechanism to increase capacity of rural-serving providers is through delivery of training and technical assistance (TTA) for evidence-based programs by leveraging the Cooperative Extension System. Guided by the Interactive Systems Framework, the current study evaluates TTA delivered by the Northwest Rural Opioid Technical Assistance Collabroative to opioid prevention, treatment, and recovery providers on short- (satisfaction, anticipated benefit), medium-, (behavioral intention to change current practice), and long-term goals (changes toward adoption of evidence-based practices). We also evaluated differences in short- and medium-term goals by intensity of TTA event and rurality of provider. Surveys of 351 providers who received TTA indicated high levels of satisfaction with TTA events attended, expressed strong agreement that they would benefit from the event, intended to make a professional practice change, and preparation toward implementing changes. Compared to urban-based providers, rural providers reported higher intention to use TTA information to change current practice. We conclude with a review of remaining gaps in the research to practice pipeline and recommendations for moving forward.

Deep Neural Networks and Tabular Data: A Survey

Heterogeneous tabular data are the most commonly used form of data and are essential for numerous critical and computationally demanding applications. On homogeneous datasets, deep neural networks have repeatedly shown excellent performance and have therefore been widely adopted. However, their adaptation to tabular data for inference or data generation tasks remains highly challenging. To facilitate further progress in the field, this work provides an overview of state-of-the-art deep learning methods for tabular data. We categorize these methods into three groups: data transformations, specialized architectures, and regularization models. For each of these groups, our work offers a comprehensive overview of the main approaches. Moreover, we discuss deep learning approaches for generating tabular data and also provide an overview over strategies for explaining deep models on tabular data. Thus, our first contribution is to address the main research streams and existing methodologies in the mentioned areas while highlighting relevant challenges and open research questions. Our second contribution is to provide an empirical comparison of traditional machine learning methods with 11 deep learning approaches across five popular real-world tabular datasets of different sizes and with different learning objectives. Our results, which we have made publicly available as competitive benchmarks, indicate that algorithms based on gradient-boosted tree ensembles still mostly outperform deep learning models on supervised learning tasks, suggesting that the research progress on competitive deep learning models for tabular data is stagnating. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first in-depth overview of deep learning approaches for tabular data; as such, this work can serve as a valuable starting point to guide researchers and practitioners interested in deep learning with tabular data.

Impaired social reward processing in individuals with Internet gaming disorder and its relationship with early face perception

Previous research has found that individuals with Internet gaming disorder (IGD) show different patterns of social function impairments in game-related and real-life social contexts. Impaired social reward processing may be the underlying mechanism according to the Social Motivation Theory. Thus, in this study, event-related potentials were recorded from 24 individuals with IGD and 24 healthy gamers during a social judgement task. We focused on reward positivity (RewP) elicited by game-related and real-life social rewards, and N170 elicited by game avatar faces and real faces. These indicators were used to explore the neurocognitive mechanism of impaired social reward processing in individuals with IGD and its relationship with early face perception. Results showed that (1) the RewP elicited by real-life social reward was considerably reduced in individuals with IGD relative to healthy gamers. (2) The N170 elicited by game avatar faces in individuals with IGD was larger than that elicited by real faces. However, the N170 was not associated with RewP in either group. (3) The score for IGD severity was correlated with the RewP elicited by real-life social reward and the N170 elicited by game avatar face. In conclusion, the present study suggests that the impaired social reward processing in individuals with IGD is mainly manifested in a decreased neural sensitivity to real-life social reward. Meanwhile, the reduced RewP elicited by real-life social reward and the enhanced N170 elicited by game avatar face might serve as potential biomarkers for IGD.

Clear aligner therapy practice among orthodontists in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland: A cross-sectional survey of the British Orthodontic Society membership

OBJECTIVE

To investigate clear aligner therapy (CAT) practice among orthodontists in the British Orthodontic Society (BOS).

DESIGN

A cross-sectional online survey.

METHODS

An electronic survey was distributed to members of the BOS in 2022. The survey comprised questions regarding respondent demographics, general use of CAT, the choice of proprietary CAT appliances, CAT planning, case selection, treatment protocols and orthodontist-reported CAT problems.

RESULTS

Overall, there were 233 (19.5%) respondants with the majority (n = 121, 53.1%) being female. Most respondents reported practising in England (n = 171, 74.7%). The majority (n = 177, 77.3%) indicated that they used CAT in their practice, with 48.1% (n = 81) treating 1-20 patients with CAT annually. The most frequently prescribed CAT system was Invisalign (n = 138, 81.2%). One to three changes to the initial digital treatment plan were made by 72.9% (n = 121) with final tooth positions being the most common reason for adjustment (64.4%). Most (n = 97, 60.3%) rarely or never performed premolar extractions with CAT. Of the respondents, 23 12.7%) reported that they always or mostly used a remote monitoring system in conjunction with CAT, with a wide range of aligner change protocols reported. The median number of months required to complete non-extraction CAT reported by the respondents was 12. Most respondents (n = 77, 51.7%) did not feel that CAT provides superior outcomes compared with fixed appliance therapy.

CONCLUSION

CAT practice varied widely among the surveyed orthodontists. A predilection for the use of Invisalign and utility in less severe cases was noted.

[The COVID-pandemic and specialist training in Head and Neck oncology: A Survey among Physicians]

OBJECTIVE

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the healthcare system and medical education. In this publication, the influence of the pandemic on the education of physicians active in Head and Neck oncology was examined using a survey.

METHODS

A survey comprising 53 questions was conducted to gather data on work settings, daily activities, team events, and educational aspects during the pandemic. A total of 497 oncologists participated, including 131 individuals working in the field of Head and Neck oncology. This subgroup consisted of 99 (75.6%) radiation oncologists, 10 (7.6%) maxillofacial specialists, and 22 (16.8%) otolaryngologists.

RESULTS

Nearly half of the participants reported experiencing increased clinical burden, which resulted in reduced engagement in scientific activities. Digital platforms became the predominant mode of continuing education, albeit with reduced accessibility. The pandemic significantly impacted clinical training that involved direct patient interaction. On the other hand, positive effects were observed in terms of cost and availability for external educational events such as conferences.

CONCLUSION

The findings highlight the detrimental effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on various aspects of medical education. While digitalization has accelerated in response, many physicians expressed a lack of professional interaction. Developing alternative digital learning platforms can provide a means to better cope with similar situations in the future. However, the importance of personal contact with colleagues and supervisors should not be overlooked when considering the quality of teaching.

The minimal important difference in orthodontic treatment duration: a survey across adult patients

BACKGROUND

The minimal important difference (MID) is defined as the smallest difference that the patient perceives as important. Furthermore, the smallest worthwhile effect (SWE) is the important change measured with the benefit-harm trade-off method. The aim of this study was to evaluate the MID in orthodontic treatment duration to inform the decision regarding seeking procedures to accelerate orthodontic tooth movement and reduce treatment duration.

METHODS

We constructed a survey eliciting views of the MID from adult participants from four countries undergoing orthodontic treatment. Ten questions addressed reduction in the treatment duration for both durations 12 and 24 months, and four questions were related to the reduction in treatment duration that the patients would require to undergo surgical or non-surgical adjunctive procedures. We applied a univariable random effects logistic regression model to examine the association between the participants' characteristics and the MID. Then, we fitted a multivariable logistic random effects regression including significant predictors.

RESULTS

Four hundred and fifty adults, with a median age of 21 (interquartile range: 19-24), undergoing orthodontic treatment participated in the survey. Of the respondents, 60% considered 15 days as a trivial reduction from 12 months duration of therapy and 70% considered 15 days a trivial reduction from 24 months. Of the respondents, 48% considered the period of 2 months a moderate reduction from 12 months, and 60% considered 2 months a moderate reduction from 24 months. From these results, we inferred that patients considered reductions of approximately 1 month as the MID in the treatment duration for both 12 and 24 months. However, SWE was considerably more than the MID for most of the participants to decide undergoing surgical adjunctive procedures to reduce the time of therapy. The participants required smaller SWE to undergo non-surgical procedures compared to surgical procedures.

CONCLUSION

The MID in the treatment duration is one month for both treatment durations 12 and 24 months. Patients require a greater SWE than the MID to undergo adjunctive procedures to shorten the duration, particularly for surgical procedures.

The experience of stuttering in everyday life among adults who stutter: The impact of trait social anxiety and the social situations

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the emotional and stuttering experience of adults who stutter (AWS) in everyday life, and how that experience may be shaped by personal (i.e., trait social anxiety) and situational factors (i.e., social partner reaction, communication channel type, social closeness, stuttering knowledge).

METHOD

AWS completed ecological momentary assessments on their smartphones multiple times a day for up to three weeks. Data (n = 62) were analyzed with multilevel models to determine how situational factors and trait social anxiety influence the Negative Affect (NA), Positive Affect (PA), and self-reported stuttering severity of AWS.

RESULTS

Results indicated that having high (vs. low) trait social anxiety was associated with a tendency to experience high NA, low PA, and high self-reported stuttering severity among AWS. A range of situational factors significantly influenced the within-person variation of NA, PA, and self-reported stuttering severity in everyday life. In addition, interacting with distant social partners relative to being alone heightened NA, and the effect was more prominent among AWS with high (vs. low) trait social anxiety.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the findings suggest that the variation of affects and stuttering severity among AWS can be partly accounted for by factors from both the situational and personal levels. Clinicians should be aware of the low PA experienced by AWS who have high (vs low) trait social anxiety in everyday life.

Early Exercise Through Telerehabilitation After Bariatric Surgery: Is It Feasible?

PURPOSE

The feasibility of early telerehabilitation after bariatric surgery is unknown. The objective of this study was to assess the feasibility and perception of engaging in the online exercise protocol in patients during the first month after bariatric surgery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 67 patients, enrolled in a telerehabilitation program following bariatric surgery, completed a survey assessing their perception of the intensity, discomfort, and safety during exercise sessions.

RESULTS

Forty percent of participants began exercising between 5 and 10 days after surgery. Seventy-one percent of patients did not experience discomfort during the first month of exercise, and those who reported discomfort mainly mentioned dizziness and abdominal pain. No significant differences were found in the presence of discomfort among different types of surgeries performed. There was a significant difference in the presence of discomfort between patients who started exercising before and after 15 days of surgery, with less discomfort reported in the group that started after 15 days. Ninety-eight percent of patients felt safe during online exercise sessions. Most participants perceived the intensity of the sessions as moderate. The most frequently mentioned benefits of exercise were increased energy, mood, and feeling more active.

CONCLUSION

Telerehabilitation conducted during the first month after bariatric surgery was feasible and well tolerated by patients, providing a safe alternative for those patients who face difficulties with in-person interventions.

Psychosocial Self-efficacy and its Association with Selected Potential Factors Among Adults with Type 1 Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study

INTRODUCTION

The management of type 1 diabetes, a non-preventable chronic disease, leads to a high physical and psychological burden on the individual. Digital health technology can improve a person's psychosocial self-efficacy and thereby contribute to improved diabetes self-care. The aim of this study was to explore associations between psychosocial self-efficacy and demographic-, disease specific-, well-being as well as digital health technology (DHT) related factors among adults with type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

A primarily web-based cross sectional survey was conducted among adults with type 1 diabetes in Sweden (n = 301). Psychosocial self-efficacy was assessed using the Swedish version of the Diabetes Empowerment Scale, Swe-DES-23. The survey also contained questions related to demographic-, disease specific-, well-being as well as digital health technology related variables.

RESULTS

Higher well-being scores and lower HbA1c levels were associated with higher psychosocial self-efficacy in multiple linear regression analysis. In multivariate analysis, gender, body mass index, well-being scores, and HbA1c levels showed association with psychosocial self-efficacy. None of the DHT factors were found associated with psychosocial self-efficacy.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, higher well-being score and lower self-reported HbA1c levels were associated with higher psychosocial self-efficacy in both univariate- and multivariate analysis and accounted for 30% of the variation in psychosocial self-efficacy in the regression model. Thus, measures to improve psychosocial self-efficacy in adults with type 1 diabetes may help maintain their psychological well-being and blood glucose control.

Psychometric Validation of the Compulsive Internet Use Scale in Spanish Adolescents

Despite problematic internet use being especially high among adolescents, there are no screening instruments in Spain specifically for adolescents that would facilitate early detection of this problem. The main goal of this study was to validate the Compulsive Internet Use Scale (CIUS) in the adolescent Spanish population as well as to analyze the discriminative capacity of CIUS based on sociodemographic characteristics, grade point average, and other addictive behaviors. Data were obtained from the ESTUDES, a representative survey of addictive behaviors of Spanish adolescents. The sample consisted of a total of 34,308 adolescents aged between 14 and 18 years old (Mage = 15.70; SD = 1.19; 51.7% females). Results indicated that the CIUS fit a unidimensional structure, exhibited measurement invariance with respect to sex and age, and demonstrated excellent reliability (ω = .94). Past-month tobacco, alcohol, and cannabis use, as well as past-year gambling and gaming, were related to CIUS scores. A standardized screening instrument that provides valid, reliable information on young people's use of the Internet in Spain is a critical requirement for successful early detection and intervention in this population.

Global research evidence on nomophobia during 2008-2022: a bibliometric analysis and review

Nomophobia, often known as a 21st-century disorder, is a recent condition that has received considerable attention, with numerous studies conducted to better understand it since it was first introduced in 2008. To better understand the present research status and prospects to assist practitioners, policymakers, and funding agencies in protecting the population from nomophobia-related harm, a bibliometric study of nomophobia-related publications was conducted. We used Scopus and dimensions.ai to perform a search between 2008 and 2022. The HistCite, R software, and VOSviewer were used to analyze the data and extract relevant keywords indexed in medical databases using mesh heading phrases. Between January 2008 and April 2022, 1,781 papers, 30 datasets, two grants, six patents, four clinical trials, and five policy documents were identified. The bulk of the articles included in this review were published after 2017 with the majority written in English. Most of the research focuses on determining the prevalence of nomophobia in various populational groups, such as students, clinical samples, and the general adult population. Several studies examined the possible association between nomophobia symptoms and other psychiatric or physical health issues, such as changes in sleep, learning and attention, academic performance, coping strategies, etc. The current body of research knowledge of nomophobia in the main includes epidemiologic and diagnostic effort that has provided mixed results regarding its assessment and prevalence rates, and appreciable data on its treatment and prevention are lacking.

Effectiveness of identity-building interventions on recovery identity and patient-reported health outcomes in chronic diseases: A meta-analysis

This meta-analysis aimed to assess the impact of identity-building interventions on recovery identity and patient-reported health outcomes in chronic disease patients. We identified 15 relevant empirical studies (comprising 2261 patients) from 989 records through extensive keyword searches and manual screening conducted between March 2nd and March 13th, 2023. Utilizing the Cochrane tool, meta-regression, and the GRADE approach, we evaluated these studies for their characteristics, findings, and quality. The analysis revealed that identity-building interventions, encompassing recovery-oriented group, interest group, and linguistic approaches, positively influenced identity synthesis and had varying effects on health outcomes. Notably, multiple regression analysis demonstrated that identity synthesis significantly predicted health outcomes. However, the study identified mild heterogeneity, a high attrition bias risk, and insufficient data on selection and detection bias as limitations. Overall, identity-building interventions proved influential in enhancing recovery identity, a vital predictor of patient-reported health outcomes in chronic disease patients.

Early-life family and school impacts on adolescent conduct problems: A path analysis

Limited research has been conducted to examine the factors during early childhood that may contribute to conduct problems in later stages of life. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between family and school environments during early childhood and conduct problems in adolescence. In Wave 1 (W1), the study recruited 502 participants, aged 5-6 years, from Hong Kong local kindergartens, with 51.4% boys. One of their parents provided information about family socioeconomic status (SES), parent-child recreational activities, and child screen time, whereas the class teacher rated their school readiness using the Chinese version of the Early Development Instrument. Data on the number of special facilities were obtained from the kindergartens. In Wave 2 (W2), the same parents of 395 participants were asked about their involvement in their children's education. Finally, in Wave 3 (W3), the parents of 206 participants completed the Conduct Problem scale of the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire to evaluate the level of conduct problems in the participants. The results of the path analysis revealed that higher W1 family SES was associated with fewer W3 conduct problems through an increase in W1 and W2 parental involvement in children's learning and play activities. Findings have implications for understanding the impact of early-life family and school environments on adolescent conduct problems. Early childhood interventions that promote family resources and positive parent-child interactions have the potential to reduce adolescent conduct problems.

Real-world adolescent smartphone use is associated with improvements in mood: An ecological momentary assessment study

OBJECTIVE

Rates of adolescent mood disorders and adolescent smartphone use have risen in parallel, leading some to suggest that smartphone use might have detrimental effects on adolescents' moods. Alternatively, it is possible that adolescents turn to smartphone use when experiencing negative mood. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between adolescent smartphone use and mood using a longitudinal methodology that measured both in real-time.

METHOD

This study used an Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) procedure completed by 253 12-17-year old participants from across the United States. Participants received short surveys delivered to their smartphones at random points throughout the day. Measures included real-time, in-situ assessments of smartphone use, current mood, and mood before smartphone use.

RESULTS

Based on tests of a multilevel regression model, adolescent moods were positively associated with smartphone use (β = 0.261, F(1,259.49) = 19.120, p < 0.001), and that mood was positively associated with the length of phone use sessions (length of phone use β = 0.100, F(1, 112.88) = 5.616, p = 0.020). Participants also reported significant changes in mood during phone use, such that moods before phone use were significantly lower than moods during phone use (MChange = 0.539, t(2491) = 23.174, p < 0.001). Change in mood (mood before minus mood during phone use) was positively associated with the length of smartphone use sessions (β = 0.097, F(1,122.20) = 4.178, p = 0.043), such that participants who had a higher change in mood were more likely to report a longer length of smartphone use.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings suggest that adolescent smartphone use is positively associated with mood. This finding may suggest that adolescents use smartphones for mood modification, which aligns with an understanding of smartphone use as potentially addictive behavior.

Nature exposure and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic: A Navigation Guide systematic review with meta-analysis

Prior reviews have highlighted that nature exposure was a valuable coping strategy enchancing mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, no existing reviews have determined the quality of evidence and risk of bias of the empirical studies supporting this claim. To address this gap, we employed a Navigation Guide systematic review and meta-analysis approach to investigate associations between nature exposure and mental health during the pandemic. Searches in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, and PsycInfo retrieved relevant articles published between January 1, 2020, and March 4, 2024. We used the Navigation Guide methodology to assess the risk of bias and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) assessment to evaluate the overall quality of evidence. Our search retrieved 113 studies that met the inclusion criteria and reported diverse types of exposure, including nature availability, nature visit frequency, green space accessibility, and green space type, alongside associations with 12 mental health outcomes. Meta-analyses found access to gardens was associated with lower odds of depression [(Pooled OR=0.71, 95%CI=0.61, 0.82), I2=0%, n=3] and anxiety [(Pooled odds ratio [OR]=0.73, 95%CI=0.63, 0.84), I2=0%, n=3]. Increased time in green spaces were associated with lower level of stress [(Pooled Corr=-0.11, 95%CI=-0.17, -0.05), I2=0%, n=2]. Higher frequency of visits to nature was associated with improved mental well-being [(Pooled standardized beta estimate during COVID-19 period [ES]=0.10, 95%CI=0.07, 0.14), I2=0%, n=2] and general mental health [(Pooled standardized beta estimate [ES]=0.11, 95%CI=0.03-0.38), I2=82%, n=2]. However, the number of pooled studies was small and the overall quality of evidence was "very low" for all outcomes, and high levels of bias were observed (26% of studies had high, 71% probably high). Nonetheless, given the trends in the results, nature-based solutions emphasizing exposure to gardens and green spaces near the home may have promoted psychological resilience during this public health crisis.

Prevalence and Factors Associated With Willingness to Sustain Pandemic-Induced Digital Work in the General Population and Moderating Effects of Screen Hours: Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

The pandemic has accelerated digital work transformation, yet little is known about individuals' willingness to sustain such digital modes and its associated factors. A better understanding of this willingness and its drivers is crucial for guiding the development of future digital work infrastructure, training programs, and strategies to monitor and prevent related health issues.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to quantify the general population's willingness to sustain pandemic-induced digital work, identify its associated factors, and examine how screen time moderates these relationships.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted targeting Hong Kong residents aged ≥18 years who have increased engagement in digital work since the pandemic. Data were collected through self-reported, web-based surveys. Descriptive statistics determined prevalence rates, while structured multiphase logistic regression identified associated factors and explored the moderating effects of screen hour levels.

RESULTS

This unfunded study enrolled 1014 participants from May 2 to June 24, 2022, and completed data analysis within 3 months after data collection. A total of 391 (38.6%; 95% CI 35.6%-41.6%) participants expressed willingness to sustain digital work. Positive factors associated with this willingness included being an employee (odds ratio [OR] 3.12, 95% CI 1.59-6.45; P=.001), being health professionals (OR 3.32, 95% CI 1.49-7.82; P=.004), longer screen hours (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.03-1.15; P=.002), and higher depression levels (OR 1.20, 95% CI 1.01-1.44; P=.04). Conversely, negatively associated factors included older age (OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.81-0.94; P=.001), extroversion (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.51-0.86; P=.002), higher eHealth literacy (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.93-0.98; P<.001), perceived greater susceptibility to COVID-19 (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.74-0.96; P=.009), residence in a high-severity COVID-19 community (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.63-0.84; P<.001), having infected individuals in the immediate social circle (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.46-0.88; P=.006), higher BMI (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.90-0.99; P=.02), feelings of being out of control (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.93-0.98; P=.002), and higher fear of COVID-19 (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.94-0.98; P=.001). In addition, a moderating effect of screen hour level (high: >8 h/d; low: ≤8 h/d) influenced the association among 10 factors related to willingness to sustain pandemic-induced digital work, including age, education level, household size, needs for regular medical care, BMI, frequency of both vigorous and moderate physical activities, perceived COVID-19 severity, immediate social circle COVID-19 presence, and fear of COVID-19 (all P values for interaction <.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The substantial willingness of the general population to sustain digital work after the pandemic highlights the need for robust telework infrastructure, thorough monitoring of adverse health outcomes, and the potential to expand telehealth services among this group. The identification of factors influencing this willingness and the moderating role of screen hours inform the development of personalized strategies to enhance digital work acceptance where needed.

Exploring the facilitators and barriers to addressing social media's impact on anxiety within primary care: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Several researchers and policymakers have acknowledged the alarming association between social media (SM) usage and anxiety symptoms in young adults. While primary care holds a crucial role in the improvement of health outcomes for those presenting with anxiety, there has been no research on GPs' perceptions of the impact of SM on anxiety. Furthermore, there has been little discussion of SM as a risk factor in anxiety-related consultations. This study is the first to use empirical research to inform how primary care can adapt to address SM's impact on anxiety within young adults.

AIM

To identify the facilitators and barriers within primary care to addressing SM's impact on anxiety among young adults.

DESIGN & SETTING

A qualitative study of GPs in the UK.

METHOD

Following an exploratory pilot interview, semi-structured interviews with GPs (n = 7) were transcribed and thematically analysed, following an inductive approach.

RESULTS

The following six facilitators were identified: a framework to facilitate discussion; open GP attitudes; GP training; referral pathways; larger stakeholder influence; and young adult education of social media's impact on anxiety. The following three barriers were identified: a lack of GP awareness of SM's impact on anxiety; cautious GP attitudes; and increased pressure on the health service.

CONCLUSION

This qualitative study revealed a diversity of perceptions, and these novel findings are instructive in the adaptation of primary care services to meet the current mental health needs of young adults, as well as better assisting GPs in engaging in these conversations, especially within university practice.

The toll of the scroll: A path toward burnout

Athletes report using social networking sites, including Instagram, to manage their self-presentations. While on Instagram, they may browse content and interact with others, enabling them to socially compare themselves to other athletes. Less favorable comparisons may contribute to higher burnout perceptions. The purpose of the current study was to (a) examine if the use of Instagram contributed to burnout perceptions and (b) if type of use and social comparison mediated these relationships. Male and female collegiate athletes (N = 162) completed measures of Instagram usage, social comparison, and burnout during their sport season. Latent path analysis using robust maximum likelihood estimation was used to examine the model. Daily time spent on Instagram was directly associated with exhaustion (β = -0.32) and reduced accomplishment (β = -0.21). Browsing was directly associated with exhaustion (β = 0.39), reduced accomplishment (β = 0.38), and sport devaluation (β = 0.27). Interacting was directly associated with devaluation (β = -0.23). Social comparison while using Instagram was directly associated with reduced accomplishment (β = -0.35) and devaluation (β = -0.34). Browsing mediated the relationship between time spent on Instagram and exhaustion (β = 0.13) and reduced accomplishment (β = 0.13). Social comparison was not a mediator. Results suggest that scrolling through posts on Instagram explains why time spent on the platform contributes to burnout perceptions. Comparing oneself favorably to others while using Instagram, independent of time spent on Instagram as well as type of use, may reduce burnout while comparing oneself unfavorably may enhance burnout perceptions.

Anxiety on the internet: Describing person, provider, and organization online posts

Anxiety is a pervasive phenomenon in contemporary society. With increased internet use in recent years, more people in the general population are seeking and providing help and participating in community online. The goal of our study was to evaluate the content of internet narratives among those who post about anxiety and determine what stakeholder groups are saying online. We used the bifurcated method; it is a multi-method (qualitative) approach with inductive, thematic analyses, and with quantification of content-related words via a computer program that crawls websites and counts the occurrences of specified terms (for cross-checking purposes). Themes of posts and webpages about anxiety were: using/reporting treatment strategies (83.3% saturation), providing help (77.8% saturation), telling personal stories (72.2% saturation), seeking help (61.1% saturation), and illustrating interpersonal impact (50% saturation). We argue that anxiety stakeholders may take part in health co-inquiry online (i.e., cooperating with others) in many of the same ways that they might collaborate in person. We recommend that clinicians query their clients about use of the internet in ways related to their anxiety (e.g., seeking information/treatment strategies, offering help to others, telling their personal stories, etc.) so that they might help them process what they experience online.

Identification and Characterization of Illegal Sales of Cannabis and Nicotine Delivery Products on Telegram Messaging Platform

INTRODUCTION

Unregulated and potentially illegal sales of tobacco, nicotine, and cannabis products have been detected on various social media platforms, e-commerce sites, online retailers, and the dark web. New end-to-end encrypted messaging services are popular among online users and present opportunities for marketing, trading, and selling of these products. The purpose of this study was to identify and characterize tobacco, nicotine, and cannabis selling activity on the messaging platform Telegram.

METHODS

The study was conducted in three phases: (1) identifying keywords related to tobacco, nicotine, and cannabis products for purposes of detecting Telegram groups and channel messages; (2) automated data collection from public Telegram groups; and (3) manual annotation and classification of messages engaged in marketing and selling products to consumers.

RESULTS

Four keywords were identified ("Nicotine," "Vape," "Cannabis," and "Smoke") that yielded 20 Telegram groups with 262 506 active subscribers. Total volume of channel messages was 43 963 unique messages that included 3094 (7.04%) marketing/selling messages. The most commonly sold products in these groups were cannabis-derived products (83.25%, n = 2576), followed by tobacco/nicotine-derived products (6.46%, n = 200), and other illicit drugs (0.77%, n = 24). A variety of marketing tactics and a mix of seller accounts were observed, though most appeared to be individual suppliers.

CONCLUSIONS

Telegram is an online messaging application that allows for custom group creation and global connectivity, but also includes unregulated activities associated with the sale of cannabis and nicotine delivery products. Greater attention is needed to conduct monitoring and enforcement on these emerging platforms for unregulated and potentially illegal cannabis and nicotine product sales direct-to-consumer.

IMPLICATIONS

Based on study results, Telegram represents an emerging platform that enables a robust cannabis and nicotine-selling marketplace. As local, state, and national tobacco control regulations continue to advance sales restrictions and bans at the retail level, easily accessible and unregulated Internet-based channels must be further assessed to ensure that they do not act as conduits for exposure and access to unregulated or illegal cannabis and nicotine products.

Initial tweet valence, abuse volume, and observer Dark Tetrad characteristics influence perceptions of female celebrity abuse on Twitter

Research into relationships between victim-generated content, abuse received, and observer characteristics when considering Twitter abuse has been limited to male victims. We evaluated participant perceptions of female celebrity victims and abuse received on Twitter. We used a 3 (Initial Tweet Valence; negative, neutral, positive) × 2 (Abuse Volume; low, high) repeated measures design and online survey method. Participants were shown tweets generated by six female celebrities, counterbalanced such that each participant saw each celebrity in one Valence-Volume condition. Stimuli were presented across six 'lists' such that celebrity 'victims' could be rotated across Valence-Volume pairings. Participants rated-per target stimulus-the level of blame attributable to the victim and the perceived severity of the incident. Furthermore, participants were asked to complete a Dark Tetrad scale-measuring their Machiavellianism, Narcissism, Psychopathy, and Sadism. Analyses determined that victim-blaming was influenced by victim Initial Tweet Valence (greater victim-blaming associated with more-negative content) and observer Machiavellianism. Perceived severity was influenced by victim Initial Tweet Valence, Volume of Abuse received, and observer Machiavellianism. Results were consistent with previous research involving male celebrity victims. Further research is needed to understand the contributions of participants' hostile and benevolent sexism, as well as the role of victim attractiveness.

Psychological and Brain Responses to Artificial Intelligence's Violation of Community Ethics

Human moral reactions to artificial intelligence (AI) agents' behavior constitute an important aspect of modern-day human-AI relationships. Although previous studies have mainly focused on autonomy ethics, this study investigates how individuals judge AI agents' violations of community ethics (including betrayals and subversions) compared with human violations. Participants' behavioral responses, event-related potentials (ERPs), and individual differences were assessed. Behavioral findings reveal that participants rated AI agents' community-violating actions less morally negative than human transgressions, possibly because AI agents are commonly perceived as having less agency than human adults. The ERP N1 component showed the same pattern with moral rating scores, indicating the modulation effect of human-AI differences on initial moral intuitions. Moreover, the level of social withdrawal correlated with a smaller N1 in the human condition but not in the AI condition. The N2 and P2 components were sensitive to the difference between the loyalty/betrayal and authority/subversion domains but not human/AI differences. Individual levels of moral sense and autistic traits also influenced behavioral data, especially on the loyalty/betrayal domain. In our opinion, these findings offer insights for predicting moral responses to AI agents and guiding ethical AI development aligned with human moral values.

A cascading model for nudging employees towards energy-efficient behaviour in tertiary buildings

Energy-related occupant behaviour in the built environment is considered crucial when aiming towards Energy Efficiency (EE), especially given the notion that people are most often unaware and disengaged regarding the impacts of energy-consuming habits. In order to affect such energy-related behaviour, various approaches have been employed, being the most common the provision of recommendations towards more energy-efficient actions. In this work, the authors extend prior research findings in an effort to automatically identify the optimal Persuasion Strategy (PS), out of ten pre-selected by experts, tailored to a user (i.e., the context to trigger a message, allocate a task or providing cues to enact an action). This process aims to successfully influence the employees' decisions about EE in tertiary buildings. The framework presented in this study utilizes cultural traits and socio-economic information. It is based on one of the largest survey datasets on this subject, comprising responses from 743 users collected through an online survey in four countries across Europe (Spain, Greece, Austria and the UK). The resulting framework was designed as a cascade of sequential data-driven prediction models. The first step employs a particular case of matrix factorisation to rank the ten PP in terms of preference for each user, followed by a random forest regression model that uses these rankings as a filtering step to compute scores for each PP and conclude with the best selection for each user. An ex-post assessment of the individual steps and the combined ensemble revealed increased accuracy over baseline non-personalised methods. Furthermore, the analysis also sheds light on important user characteristics to take into account for future interventions related to EE and the most effective persuasion strategies to adopt based on user data. Discussion and implications of the reported results are provided in the text regarding the flourishing field of personalisation to motivate pro-environmental behaviour change in tertiary buildings.

The imbalance of self-reported wanting and liking is associated with the degree of attentional bias toward smoking-related stimuli in low nicotine dependence smokers

Background and aims

The Incentive Sensitization Theory (IST) offers a comprehensive framework that explains how attentional mechanisms contribute to the maintenance and relapse of addictive behavior. However, the extent to which the underlying neuropsychological mechanisms are consciously accessible for report remains unknown. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the association between self-reported wanting and liking among smokers and its relationship with detecting changes in smoking-related stimuli.

Design

An online experiment was designed deploying a flicker paradigm with neutral and smoking-related changes, completed by 422 individuals (mean age = 29.1 years, 214 non-smokers, 123 current smokers, and 85 former smokers). Additionally, the Fagerström Test for Cigarette Dependence and the Imaginative Wanting and Liking Questionnaire were administered.

Findings

Consistent with prior research findings, smokers exhibited faster detection of smoking-related changes compared to non-smokers, while former smokers displayed an intermediate level of attentional bias, falling between the levels observed in smokers and non-smokers. Further, higher levels of nicotine dependence were associated with a greater discrepancy between self-reported wanting and liking, which was associated with better change detection performance for high salience smoking-related stimuli in smokers.

Conclusion

These findings support the predictions of IST and support the notion that attentional bias might develops early in the course of nicotine addiction. Furthermore, the results indicate that the underlying cognitive mechanisms might be partially within conscious awareness, which opens up potential avenues for research design, treatment, and interventions.

Understanding the Complexities of Student Learning Progress in Texas: A Study of COVID-19 and Rural vs. Non-Rural Districts

In this study, we investigate the impact of COVID-19 on academic achievement in Texas public schools. Demographic and Grade 5 STAAR test data were collected from 1155 public school districts for 2018-2019 and 2020-2021. Multiple regression was adopted to analyze the differences between rural and non-rural districts, as well as the impact of demographic characteristics on students' achievement. The results reveal significant differences in demographic characteristics between the two academic years, with non-rural districts exhibiting a greater decline in academic achievement than rural districts. Additionally, the findings suggest that higher teacher salaries correlate with better academic performance across various subjects and that English learners require additional support to acquire content knowledge and skills. We further confirm that the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the academic learning experience of Texas students, with rural districts displaying more resilience than non-rural districts.

Positive and negative social media experiences and proximal risk for suicidal ideation in adolescents

BACKGROUND

Social media (SM) has received considerable attention as a potential risk factor for adolescent suicide. Few empirical studies, however, have examined adolescents' daily negative and positive experiences on SM and its proximal impacts on suicidal ideation (SI), particularly using intensive monitoring designs.

METHOD

Adolescents (N = 60; 14-17 years; 49% girls; 62% LGBTQ+) recruited using SM across the United States and participated in an 8-week intensive monitoring protocol. Ecological momentary assessment (three brief surveys per day) asked about negative and positive SM experiences and SI (passive and active). Multilevel modelling was used to evaluate the within-person relationships between daily SM experiences (e.g. individual fluctuations compared to a person's average) and SI, controlling for average levels of SM experiences, SM use screen time, and lifetime SI.

RESULTS

Significant within-person effects of negative and positive SM experiences were associated with days when adolescents had SI. Specifically, on days when teens endorsed more frequent negative SM experiences than usual, they were more likely to report SI. However, more positive SM experiences than usual were associated with a lower likelihood of having SI. There were no significant effects of SM use ('screen time') on SI or on the reverse associations of SI on next-day SM experiences.

CONCLUSIONS

Results indicate that SM experiences may be dynamic and modifiable risk and protective factors for SI in adolescents, whereas there is no effect of SM screen time on SI. Our results highlight that targeting negative SM experiences and augmenting the positive experiences on SM may be critical targets to improve teens' mental health and prevent suicide, rather than focusing on limiting SM screen time.