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A study conducted in Malaysia by University Sains Malaysia evaluated the impact of surgery on the psychosocial function and quality of life in children with congenital ptosis and their parents. The research involved 45 children, with significant improvements observed in social anxiety and quality of life following surgery. Factors such as the severity of ptosis and presence of amblyopia were found to impact the outcomes of surgery. The study concluded that psychosocial function should be considered when determining the need for surgery in children with congenital ptosis. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by investigators at the University of Minnesota examined the effects of recreational cannabis legalization on adult psychiatric and psychosocial outcomes. The research, funded by the National Institutes of Health, found that while legalization was associated with increased cannabis use and decreased alcohol use disorder symptoms, it did not lead to other adverse outcomes. The study used a longitudinal, co-twin control design to analyze the impact of legalization on vulnerable individuals and found that vulnerabilities to cannabis use were not exacerbated by the legal cannabis environment. Future research may explore causal links between cannabis consumption and outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University of Nevada examined the two-factor (MAP and EXP) and five-factor (anhedonia, asociality, avolition, blunted affect, alogia) models of negative symptoms in schizophrenia. The research found differential associations between these models and external correlates such as trait affect, defeatist performance beliefs, neurocognition, and psychosocial functioning. The study suggests implications for diagnostic criteria and treatment targets for negative symptoms in schizophrenia. The findings were published in the European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience and were supported by the NIH National Institute of Mental Health. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Queen's University in Northern Ireland focused on evaluating the experience of chronic pain, service type, and physical and mental health functioning in veterans. The study found that chronic pain was associated with disruptions in quality of life, psychosocial functioning, anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms. The research highlighted the need for interventions addressing co-morbid chronic pain and mental health issues in veterans, particularly in post-conflict military settings. The study provides valuable insights into the unique circumstances faced by veterans in Northern Ireland, emphasizing the importance of coordinated and effective interventions for their well-being. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by investigators at the University of Minnesota examined the impact of recreational cannabis legalization on substance use, substance use disorder, and psychosocial functioning. The research, which used a longitudinal co-twin control design, found that legalization was associated with increased cannabis use and decreased alcohol use disorder symptoms, but did not lead to other adverse outcomes. The study concluded that future research should explore causal links between cannabis consumption and outcomes. For more information, readers can refer to the article "Recreational Cannabis Legalization Has Had Limited Effects On a Wide Range of Adult Psychiatric and Psychosocial Outcomes" published in Psychological Medicine. [Extracted from the article]

A recent clinical trial conducted in Chile by St. Thomas University focused on the impact of group interventions on adolescents exposed to interpersonal violence. The study evaluated the effectiveness of Trama Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), and Art therapy-based support (ATBS) on psychosocial functioning. Results showed significant improvements in post-traumatic stress symptoms, depression, interpersonal functioning, and affect regulation, indicating that group interventions could be a valuable option for reducing psychological distress in youth exposed to violence. The research suggests that involving parents and caregivers more actively could further enhance the effectiveness of these interventions. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses a replication study of a systematic review on the effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) on psychosocial functioning in transgender individuals. The original review found that GAHT is consistently associated with reduced depressive symptoms and psychological distress, but results were mixed for other areas like self-mastery and quality of life. The replication tests confirmed the original findings, except for the search strategy replication, which was challenging to replicate. The study highlights the importance of reproducible research practices and supports initiatives for 'living' systematic reviews to facilitate updates with new data. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the Princess Maxima Center for Pediatric Oncology in Utrecht, Netherlands, examined the association between psychosocial risk and protective factors and various psychosocial outcomes in childhood cancer survivors. The study found that factors such as self-esteem, perceived burden, acceptance, and social support were associated with psychosocial functioning in survivors. The researchers suggest that addressing negative perceptions, reducing feelings of helplessness, and promoting self-esteem and social support could be beneficial for survivors facing psychosocial challenges. The study highlights the importance of psychosocial factors in understanding the well-being of childhood cancer survivors. [Extracted from the article]

New research from the University of Virginia explores the role of the oxytocin system in social stress adaptation, particularly in adolescence. The study examines the impact of DNA methylation in the promoter of the oxytocin receptor gene on psychosocial functioning in adulthood. The findings suggest that reduced DNA methylation at specific sites is associated with exposure to over-controlling parenting in adolescence, conflict in romantic relationships, and fewer internalizing symptoms in adulthood. These results support the idea that an upregulated oxytocin system can reduce the salience of negative socioemotional stimuli and decrease the risk of emotional problems. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, examined the late effects of proton radiation therapy (PRT) on pediatric brain tumor survivors. The study found that while psychosocial and executive functioning were generally within the normal range, there were areas of concern, particularly in social withdrawal and metacognitive executive functioning. The researchers recommend targeted yearly screening and proactive interventions to address these issues. The study was supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Texas Technical University examined implicit attitudes towards food and physical activity in relation to body mass index (BMI) status. The study found that there were no differences in implicit preferences based on BMI or BMI status. Overall, the participants demonstrated implicit preferences for healthy foods and active words, although these preferences were not linked to corresponding behavioral outputs. The researchers suggest that future studies should explore how implicit preferences may impact intentions to engage in obesity-related health behaviors and the psychosocial factors that influence these preferences. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the Dissemination & Training Division explored the potential benefits of a self-guided mindfulness coach mobile app for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study found that the app, called Mindfulness Coach (MC), showed promise in relieving PTSD symptoms and depression in veterans. However, the study also highlighted the need for further research to confirm these benefits and ensure consistent engagement across different subpopulations. Overall, the findings suggest that self-guided mobile apps could be a valuable resource for improving access to mindfulness training for veterans with PTSD. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the Hospital Clinic of Barcelona in Catalonia, Spain, aimed to examine the relationship between childhood maltreatment, cognition, and psychosocial functioning in adults with first-episode psychosis. The study also explored the role of cognitive reserve in moderating this relationship. The findings showed that cognitive reserve played a moderating role in the relationship between childhood maltreatment and subjective cognitive complaints, but not neurocognitive or psychosocial functioning. The study suggests that early interventions focused on cognitive reserve could improve cognitive and psychosocial outcomes for individuals with first-episode psychosis and childhood maltreatment. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Texas State University discusses the psychosocial and educational burden of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in youth. The study found that pediatric OCD is associated with functional impairment in multiple environments, but little is known about the impact of comorbid conditions and OCD severity on psychosocial functioning in this population. The research included 117 pediatric OCD probands and 147 controls, and results revealed significant psychosocial impairments across multiple domains/settings, which were affected by symptom severity and comorbidities. The study recommends that evaluation and management of OCD in youth regularly include assessment of function across multiple domains. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report published by researchers at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Seattle, Washington highlights the importance of considering positive psychology factors in clinical trials for pain interventions. The study evaluated the effects of hypnosis, mindfulness meditation, and pain psychoeducation on adaptive psychosocial functioning in individuals with chronic pain. The results showed that individuals randomized to mindfulness meditation and hypnosis demonstrated improved psychosocial functioning compared to those randomized to pain psychoeducation at the 6-month follow-up. This research emphasizes the need to understand human flourishing in the presence of illness and disability and suggests the potential benefits of incorporating positive psychology concepts in both research and clinical contexts. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Johns Hopkins University aimed to understand the longitudinal course of symptoms and functioning in individuals with Bipolar Disorder (BD). The researchers used the Systematic Treatment Enhancement Program for Bipolar Disorder (STEP-BD) study to analyze depressive symptoms, manic symptoms, and psychosocial functioning. The study found that most subjects experienced depressive symptoms, with a small percentage experiencing persistently manic symptoms. Psychosocial functioning was impaired in the majority of the sample, with limited improvement over time. The study also identified various negative clinical risk factors associated with poor outcome trajectories. The research concluded that individuals with chronic mixed and depressive symptoms showed the highest level of psychosocial disability, despite guideline-based treatment. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Capital Medical University in Beijing, China, aimed to provide insight into depersonalization/derealization disorder (DPD), a clinical condition characterized by a recurrent or persistent sense of unreality. The study analyzed the socio-demographic details, symptom characteristics, development trajectory, treatment history, and adverse childhood experiences of 217 Chinese DPD patients. The findings revealed a higher prevalence of DPD in males, early onset of symptoms, marked impairment in psychosocial functioning, and prolonged periods of delayed healthcare attendance and diagnosis. The study emphasizes the need for improved understanding and support for individuals with DPD. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Bern University Hospital in Switzerland examined the cognitive and psychosocial development of pediatric cancer patients between diagnosis and one year after treatment. The study found that approximately half of the patients showed stable or favorable cognitive development in processing speed and working memory, while the other half experienced a decrease in performance. The research highlights the importance of early individualized patient monitoring and interventions to address cognitive difficulties in pediatric cancer survivors. The study was published in the journal Pediatric Research. [Extracted from the article]

A recent systematic review conducted by researchers at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta examined the effects of physical activity on cognition and psychosocial functioning in pediatric epilepsy. The review found that physical activity may reduce seizure burden, enhance brain plasticity, and improve cognitive and psychosocial comorbidities in children and adolescents with epilepsy. However, the review also noted that there is a lack of published studies on this topic, and more research is needed to understand how physical activity affects seizure control and epilepsy-related comorbidities. The study concluded that additional studies comparing pediatric epilepsy populations to non-epilepsy control groups are necessary. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the review from the University of Sussex, which has found that atypical antipsychotics offer a small improvement in psychosocial functioning for patients with Borderline Personality Disorder, including better general functioning, interpersonal relationships, and occupational performance compared to placebo. However, the clinical significance of the improvements is considered modest, and further randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these findings.

A recent study conducted at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf in Germany examined the effectiveness of Integrated Care Borderline (ICB), a team-based outpatient treatment approach that combines Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) with psychiatric and social support. The study enrolled 891 participants, 146 of whom were diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). The results showed that both the ICB and standard outpatient DBT groups experienced significant improvements in psychosocial functioning and a decrease in BPD and other psychiatric symptoms. However, the ICB group showed additional benefits in terms of increased employment rates and reduced psychiatric hospital days and associated costs. The study suggests that the ICB approach may offer a promising framework for outpatient DBT teams. Further research is needed to explore the specific features of ICB that contribute to these additional effects. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) examined the impact of gender-affirming facial feminization surgery (FFS) on psychosocial functioning in transgender and gender non-binary individuals. The study found that FFS led to improvements in anxiety, depression, global mental health, social isolation, and positive affect. However, the study also highlighted the importance of preoperative psychological functioning, as it was found to independently predict postoperative psychosocial outcomes. The researchers suggest that perioperative psychological interventions may help improve outcomes after FFS. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University of Potsdam in Germany explores the influence of adolescents' self-perception of social relationships on personality functioning in the context of inclusive education. The study collected questionnaire data from 927 sixth- and seventh-graders in inclusive classes and found that students who perceived their social relationships more positively exhibited healthier personality functioning. The study also suggests that special educational needs in the domains of learning and social-emotional development may pose a potential risk factor for personality functioning. Overall, the findings contribute to a better understanding of students' psychosocial development in inclusive learning environments. [Extracted from the article]

A non-randomized controlled trial conducted in Hobart, Australia, examined the effectiveness of a psychosocial support program called Choices for adults experiencing mental illness and homelessness. The program, delivered by Baptcare, provided intensive outreach and crisis accommodation support for a period of three months. The study found that participants in the intervention group showed significant improvements in social functioning, overall psychosocial functioning, symptoms of depression and anxiety, and had shorter hospital readmission lengths compared to the control group. These findings support the ongoing delivery of this combined accommodation and psychosocial support model for individuals experiencing mental illness and homelessness. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the University of Washington focuses on the issue of diabetes stigma and its impact on clinical outcomes. The research highlights that individuals with diabetes may face social judgment, prejudice, or stereotypes in various aspects of their lives. The review explores the prevalence of diabetes stigma, associated factors, and its connection to clinical outcomes such as HbA1c levels, diabetic ketoacidosis, and psychosocial complications. The study emphasizes the need for further understanding of diabetes stigma, particularly in youth and adolescents with type 2 diabetes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Illinois examined the relationship between caregiver psychosocial factors, family chaos, and child oral health behaviors in racially and economically minoritized urban families. The study found that greater household chaos was associated with lower caregiver assistance with child toothbrushing. Caregiver anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, and the number of children in the home were also linked to higher levels of household chaos. The findings suggest that household chaos may play a significant role in child oral health behaviors and highlight the importance of investigating family-level factors in addressing oral health disparities. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center explored the role of psychosocial factors in the accuracy of symptom reporting in patients with glioma and their family caregivers. The researchers found that illness-related communication and depressive symptoms within families can impact caregivers' ability to accurately understand patients' symptom burden. Disagreement between patients and caregivers was found in the reporting of symptom severity and interference, with caregivers often overestimating or underestimating these measures. The study highlights the importance of considering the psychosocial context of the family in symptom management interventions for glioma patients and their caregivers. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the Hospital Clinic de Barcelona explores resilience in older adults with bipolar disorder (OABD). The study found that OABD individuals may have lower levels of resilience, which is associated with more psychiatric episodes, particularly depressive episodes, and worse psychosocial functioning and cognitive reserve. The researchers suggest that better understanding and characterization of resilience could help identify patients who may require additional support to enhance OABD management. The study sampled 33 OABD patients and used the CD-RISC-10 scale to measure resilience. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study examined the stability of the effects of social media use on the psychosocial functioning of adolescents. The study found that the effects of social media use varied among individuals and could also change within an individual over time. The study involved 297 adolescents who completed questionnaires on social media use, affective well-being, self-esteem, and friendship closeness. The findings suggest that the impact of social media on psychosocial functioning is not consistent and can differ between individuals and over time. However, it is important to note that this study has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A systematic review was conducted to examine the relationship between positive childhood experiences (PCEs) and adult outcomes in the context of childhood adversity. The review found that higher levels of PCEs were associated with lower levels of childhood adversity and were linked to positive outcomes in mental health, psychosocial functioning, physical health, health behaviors, and psychosocial stress. PCEs were found to have direct promotive effects on favorable outcomes, rather than moderating the effects of adversity. The study suggests that PCEs and childhood adversity are independent experiences, and more research is needed, particularly in diverse and international samples. [Extracted from the article]

According to a preprint abstract, researchers investigated the relationship between psychosocial functioning during adolescence and brain development. They found that individuals who showed increasing resilience in psychosocial functioning also exhibited increasing myelination in the anterolateral prefrontal cortex, which was associated with stabilized functional connectivity. The study also observed widespread changes in myeloarchitectural configuration in association cortices, along with attenuated functional reorganization, in individuals with more resilient outcomes. These findings suggest that psychosocial functioning and brain development are interconnected during adolescence. However, it is important to note that this research has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses a study that aimed to identify different profiles of cultural stressors and acculturation strategies among Hispanic/Latinx college students. The study found four distinct profiles: Bicultural and Low Cultural Stressors, Marginalization and High Acculturative Stressors, Heritage Rejection and Low Cultural Stressors, and Separation and High Cultural Stressors. The Bicultural and Low Cultural Stressors profile had the highest level of psychosocial functioning, while the Separation and High Cultural Stressors profile had the lowest. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding these profiles and their implications for the psychosocial functioning of Hispanic/Latinx emerging adults. [Extracted from the article]

A researcher from Maria Curie Sklodowska University Lublin has conducted a study on the role of a sensory diet in improving the quality of psychosocial functioning of students in inclusive education. The study emphasizes the importance of effective sensory processing for physiological regulation, appropriate behavioral responses, and academic skill development. The researcher suggests that creating a sensory-friendly environment in classrooms can help students achieve optimal arousal levels and become successful learners. The study concludes that sensory programs can be adapted to meet the needs of students, offering possibilities for their implementation in inclusive education. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from the University of Brescia in Italy highlights the benefits of cognitive remediation for individuals with schizophrenia. The study found that cognitive remediation led to significant improvements in cognitive performance and real-world functioning for people with schizophrenia. These benefits were found to persist over time, suggesting that cognitive remediation should be more widely implemented in clinical and rehabilitation practice. The study also identified certain factors that were associated with better outcomes, such as longer treatment duration, techniques for transferring cognitive gains to the real world, and integration with psychiatric rehabilitation. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, explored the impact of body image on psychosocial outcomes in youth and young adults with differences of sex development (DSD). The study found that body image dissatisfaction was associated with poorer psychosocial adjustment, quality of life, and resilience. The research highlighted both positive and negative body image experiences among participants. The findings have implications for clinical care, suggesting the need for screening for appearance concerns and the development of interventions to support healthy body image and psychosocial functioning in this population. [Extracted from the article]