Design of a Landscape Device for Children from the Perspective of Embodied Cognition in the New Era

In recent years,embodied cognition has ushered in a new research upsurge in the academic field,and has become a hot topic in the field of cognitive psychology.In this paper,from the perspective of embodied cognition,the interaction ways of a landscape device for children were discussed to achieve a more real and harmonious interaction between children and scenes.The research data of embodied cognition used by children was analyzed,and the drawbacks and breakthrough points of current landscape devices for children were discussed.The core characteristics of children’s growth period were extracted to establish children’s interaction model and summarize the interactive design methods of landscape devices for children.Embodied cognition has become the most intuitive way for children to know and understand the environment,and plays a pivotal role in children’s growth.Based on embodied cognition principle and interactive behavior mode,the interactive design of a landscape device for children was studied,and three interactive design modes,including simple and convenient interaction mode,multi-sensory interaction mode and game natural interaction mode were summarized.On the basis of this research,relevant design practice and research were carried out to bring a new vision to the design of children’s landscape.

The Intersection of Privacy by Design and Behavioral Economics: Nudging Users towards Privacy-Friendly Choices

This paper conducts a comprehensive review of existing research on Privacy by Design (PbD) and behavioral economics, explores the intersection of Privacy by Design (PbD) and behavioral economics, and how designers can leverage “nudges” to encourage users towards privacy-friendly choices. We analyze the limitations of rational choice in the context of privacy decision-making and identify key opportunities for integrating behavioral economics into PbD. We propose a user-centered design framework for integrating behavioral economics into PbD, which includes strategies for simplifying complex choices, making privacy visible, providing feedback and control, and testing and iterating. Our analysis highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of user behavior and decision-making in the context of privacy, and demonstrates the potential of behavioral economics to inform the design of more effective PbD solutions.

Treadmill exercise in combination with acousto-optic and olfactory stimulation improves cognitive function in APP/PS1 mice through the brain-derived neurotrophic factor-and Cygb-associated signaling pathways

A reduction in adult neurogenesis is associated with behavioral abnormalities in patients with Alzheimer's disease.Consequently,enhancing adult neurogenesis represents a promising therapeutic approach for mitigating disease symptoms and progression.Nonetheless,nonpharmacological interventions aimed at inducing adult neurogenesis are currently limited.Although individual non-pharmacological interventions,such as aerobic exercise,acousto-optic stimulation,and olfactory stimulation,have shown limited capacity to improve neurogenesis and cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease,the therapeutic effect of a strategy that combines these interventions has not been fully explored.In this study,we observed an age-dependent decrease in adult neurogenesis and a concurrent increase in amyloid-beta accumulation in the hippocampus of amyloid precursor protein/presenilin 1 mice aged 2-8 months.Amyloid deposition became evident at 4 months,while neurogenesis declined by 6 months,further deteriorating as the disease progressed.However,following a 4-week multifactor stimulation protocol,which encompassed treadmill running(46 min/d,10 m/min,6 days per week),40 Hz acousto-optic stimulation(1 hour/day,6 days/week),and olfactory stimulation(1 hour/day,6 days/week),we found a significant increase in the number of newborn cells(5'-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine-positive cells),immature neurons(doublecortin-positive cells),newborn immature neurons(5'-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine-positive/doublecortin-positive cells),and newborn astrocytes(5'-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine-positive/glial fibrillary acidic protein-positive cells).Additionally,the amyloid-beta load in the hippocampus decreased.These findings suggest that multifactor stimulation can enhance adult hippocampal neurogenesis and mitigate amyloid-beta neuropathology in amyloid precursor protein/presenilin 1 mice.Furthermore,cognitive abilities were improved,and depressive symptoms were alleviated in amyloid precursor protein/presenilin 1 mice following multifactor stimulation,as evidenced by Morris water maze,novel object recognition,forced swimming test,and tail suspension test results.Notably,the efficacy of multifactor stimulation in consolidating immature neurons persisted for at least 2weeks after treatment cessation.At the molecular level,multifactor stimulation upregulated the expression of neuron-related proteins(NeuN,doublecortin,postsynaptic density protein-95,and synaptophysin),anti-apoptosis-related proteins(Bcl-2 and PARP),and an autophagyassociated protein(LC3B),while decreasing the expression of apoptosis-related proteins(BAX and caspase-9),in the hippocampus of amyloid precursor protein/presenilin 1 mice.These observations might be attributable to both the brain-derived neurotrophic factor-mediated signaling pathway and antioxidant pathways.Furthermore,serum metabolomics analysis indicated that multifactor stimulation regulated differentially expressed metabolites associated with cell apoptosis,oxidative damage,and cognition.Collectively,these findings suggest that multifactor stimulation is a novel non-invasive approach for the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

The Impact of the Cognition of Landscape Experience on Tourist Environmental Conservation Behaviors

This article explores the relationship between the tourist's cognition of the landscape experience and the environmental conservation efforts at three distinct tourist sites in mountains of southwestern China. A total of 1500 on-site questionnaire surveys were distributed and 1142 valid questionnaires were used for statistical analysis. Results from multi-group path analysis showed that both cognition of the cultural landscape experience and cognition of the natural landscape experience had positive impacts on environmental conservation behaviors and behavior intentions of tourists. Results from comparative analysis among the three tourist sites indicated that cognition of the cultural landscape experience had a stronger power to predict senior environmental conservation behaviors and behavior intentions than cognition of the natural landscape experience, whereas cognition of the natural landscape experience had more power to predict general environmental conservation behaviors and behavior intentions than cognition of the cultural landscape experience. Furthermore, our findings benefit environmental management and sustainabilityat tourist sites.

Effects of comprehensive nursing with cognitive behavioral therapy in orthodontic osteodilated arch treatment

BACKGROUND This work explored the effects of cognitive behavior therapy(CBT)-based comprehensive nursing intervention(CNI)mode in arch expansion to treat patients with orthodontic osteodilated arch(OOA).AIM To explore the application effect of CBT-based CNI model in orthodontic expansion arch treatment.METHODS Using convenient sampling method,81 patients with OOA were selected and rolled into a control group(Ctrl group,40 cases)and an observation group(Obs group,41 cases).During the treatment,patients in the Ctrl group received routine nursing intervention mode,and the those in the Obs group received CBT mode on the basis of this.Before and after intervention,the incidence of oral mucositis,the mastery rate of correct arch expansion method,self-rating anxiety scale score,soft scale index,and plaque index were compared for patients in different groups.In addition,satisfaction and complications were comparatively analyzed.RESULTS Incidence of oral mucositis in the Obs group was lower(14.6%vs 38.5%),and the mastery rate of correct arch expansion method was obviously higher(90.2%vs 55.0%)was obviously higher(all P<0.05).Meanwhile,the soft scale index and plaque index in the Obs group were much lower(P<0.05).The compliance(90.24%)and satisfaction(95.12%)in the Obs group were greatly higher(P<0.05).CONCLUSION The CBT-based CNI mode greatly improved the mastery rate of correct arch expansion method during arch expansion in treating patients with OOA and enhanced the therapeutic effect of arch expansion and the oral health of patients,improving the patient compliance.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Tinnitus in Adults: A Review of Efficacy in Quality-of-Life Enhancement

Background: Tinnitus, characterized by the perception of sounds without an external source, significantly affects quality of life. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has emerged as a promising approach for managing tinnitus-related distress and enhancing psychological well-being. Objectives: This review aims to analyze the effectiveness of CBT in tinnitus management, focusing on alleviating distress, enhancing coping mechanisms, and improving overall well-being. Methods: PubMed and World of Science databases were systematically searched using keywords related to tinnitus, CBT, and quality of life. English, peer-reviewed studies focusing on adult populations were included. Studies involving pediatric populations or not meeting inclusion criteria were excluded. Data extraction was performed using PRISMA guidelines, with a narrative synthesis approach for analysis. Methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed using appropriate tools. The search engine initially identified 155 studies that met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review. However, upon further evaluation, 140 of these studies were excluded due to their non-randomized design. Of the remaining 15 studies, 11 were found to be partially accessible but ultimately excluded from the review as they did not meet the full accessibility criteria. Therefore, only four studies remained in the review, deemed suitable for inclusion based on their randomized design and full accessibility. Results: Studies by Beukes et al. [1]-[3] and Simoes et al. [4] evaluated CBT’s effectiveness. With internet-based CBT, Beukes et al. demonstrated reductions in tinnitus distress, negative cognitions, and comorbidities. Simoes et al. proposed combination treatments for tinnitus management. The review outcome suggests that CBT is an effective treatment for tinnitus, as it can help reduce tinnitus distress and improve quality of life. However, limitations in sample sizes and follow-up durations highlight the need for further research to establish CBT’s long-term efficacy and optimal parameters. Integrating internet-based CBT into comprehensive care strategies can enhance the well-being of individuals affected by tinnitus.

Analysis of the Role of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Self-Care in Thyroid Cancer Patients

Objective:To explore the effect of cognitive behavioral therapy on self-care in thyroid cancer patients.Methods:A total of 144 thyroid cancer patients treated at the Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University from January 2022 to August 2023 were selected as research subjects.Using the random number table method,they were divided into a control group and an experimental group,each consisting of 72 cases.The control group received routine nursing intervention,while the experimental group received cognitive behavioral therapy based on standard nursing practices.The self-care ability(self-concept,self-efficacy,self-care skills,health knowledge level),coping style(confrontation,avoidance,and surrender),and quality of life(psychological function,social function,material life,physical function)of both groups before and after the intervention were compared.Results:In comparison to the pre-intervention period,the experimental group exhibited significantly higher self-care ability,quality of life,and confrontation scores after the intervention,as opposed to the control group.Additionally,the avoidance and surrender scores were lower in the experimental group than in the control group,with these differences proving to be statistically significant(P<0.01).Conclusion:The application of cognitive behavioral therapy can enhance the self-care ability of thyroid cancer patients,aid in better disease coping,and improve their overall quality of life.This approach is deserving of further promotion.

Effect of cognitive behavior therapy combined with exercise intervention on the cognitive bias and coping styles of diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome patients

BACKGROUND Irritable bowel syndrome(IBS)is a common digestive system disease with a high incidence rate and is common in women.The cause of IBS remains unclear.Some studies have shown that mental and psychological diseases are independent risk factors for IBS.At present,the treatment of IBS is mainly symptomatic treatment.Clinically,doctors also use cognitive behavioral therapy to improve patients'cognitive ability to diseases and clinical symptoms.In recent years,exercise therapy has attracted more and more attention from scholars.Improving the symptoms of IBS patients through psychosomatic treatment strategy may be a good treatment method.AIM To explore the effects of an intervention of cognitive behavioral therapy combined with exercise(CBT+E)on the cognitive bias and coping styles of patients with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome(IBS-D);and to provide a theoretical reference for the management of IBS.METHODS Sixty IBS-D patients and thirty healthy subjects were selected.The 60 IBS-D patients were randomly divided into experimental and control groups.The experimental group was treated with the CBT+E intervention,while the control group was treated with conventional drugs without any additional intervention.The cognitive bias and coping styles of the participants were evaluated at baseline and after 6 wk,12 wk and 24 wk using the Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire(ATQ),Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale(DAS)and Pain Coping Style Questionnaire(CSQ)instruments,and the intervention effect was analyzed using SPSS 17.0 statistical software.RESULTS At baseline,the scores on the various scales showed that all subjects had cognitive bias and adverse coping styles.The IBS Symptom Severity Scale(IBSSSS)scores,ATQ total scores,DAS scores and CSQ scores of the two groups were not significantly different(P>0.05).Compared with baseline,after 6 wk of the CBT+E intervention,there were significant differences in the ATQ scores,the dependence and total scores on the DAS,and the catastrophization,distraction and prayer scores on the CSQ(P<0.05).After 12 wk,there were significant differences in the scores for perfectionism on the DAS and in the scores for reinterpretation,neglect and pain behavior on the CSQ in the experimental group(P<0.05).After 24 wk,there were significant differences in the vulnerability,dependence,perfectionism,and total scores on the DAS and in the catastrophization,distraction and prayer scores on the CSQ in the experimental group(P<0.01).The IBS-SSS scores were negatively correlated with the ATQ and DAS total scores(P<0.05)but were positively correlated with the CSQ total score(P<0.05).CONCLUSION Intervention consisting of CBT+E can correct the cognitive bias of IBS-D patients and eliminate their adverse coping conditions.CBT+E should be promoted for IBS and psychosomatic diseases.

The impact of synapsins on synaptic plasticity and cognitive behaviors

Synapsins are a family of phosphoproteins specifically associated with the cytoplasmic surface of the synaptic vesicle membrane, appearing to regulate neurotransmitter release, the formation and maintenance of synaptic contacts. They could induce the change of the synaptic plasticity to regulate various adaptation reactions, and change the cognitive behaviors. So we presume that if some cognitive behavior are damaged, synapsins would be changed as well. This gives us a new recognition of better diagnosis and therapy of cognitive disorder desease.

A Bibliometric Analysis of Research on the Behavior Therapy in China and Its Trend

To get formed of the status of research and application of the domestic behavior therapy and its development trend, the time distribution and the subject distribution were bibliometricallly analyzed of the literature on behavior therapy from 1981 to 2000 in the CBMdisc. Our results showed that the number of literature of behavior therapy has been increasing in exponential manner over the past 20 years; the behavior modification, the biofeedback and the cognitive therapy are extensively used in China. In clinical practice, the behavior modification and the biofeedback have been applied in all departments of medical institutions, especially for treating the cardiovascular and the neurological conditions. The cognitive therapy has been employed mainly for the treatment of mental disorders (or dysphrenia), the aversive therapy mainly for material withdrawal, and the systematic desensitization for phobia. There was no report found on the clinical use of meditation. It is concluded that the study and application in behavior therapy in China is currently developing very fast.

Effect of cognitive behavioral therapy on anxiety and depression of infertile women: A meta-analysis

Objective:To investigate the effect of cognitive behavioral therapy on anxiety and depression in infertile women.Methods:This study was performed in 2019 by searching Google Scholar,Scopus,PubMed/MEDLINE,Cochrane library,EMBASE,Proquest,ISI Web of Science,MagIran,SID and IranMedex.Eligible studies were selected by two reviewers and outcomes of interest were extracted.The meta-analysis was performed using the random effect models.Ⅰ-square statistic test was used for heterogeneity analysis.Presence of publication bias was also checked.Results:Eleven studies were included in this review.Between-group differences(cognitive behavioral therapy and control groups)in risk ratio for infertile women's depression was d=-1.36;95%CI=-1.81,-0.90;P<0.001.For infertile women's anxiety,between-group differences in risk ratio wasd=-0.83;95%CI=-1.18,-0.47;P<0.001.Conclusions:Cognitive behavioral therapy is effective in the reduction of depression and anxiety in patients with or withoutin vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment.However,the lack of high-quality studies makes it challenging to make a solid and precise conclusion.Well-designed studies should be undertaken in the future to confirm these results.

Effectiveness of cognitive behavior therapy for sleep disturbance and glycemic control in persons with type 2 diabetes mellitus:A community-based randomized controlled trial in China

BACKGROUND Poor sleep quality is a common clinical feature in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM),and often negatively related with glycemic control.Cognitive behavioral therapy(CBT)may improve sleep quality and reduce blood sugar levels in patients with T2DM.However,it is not entirely clear whether CBT delivered by general practitioners is effective for poor sleep quality in T2DM patients in community settings.AIM To test the effect of CBT delivered by general practitioners in improving sleep quality and reducing glycemic levels in patients with T2DM in community.METHODS A cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted from September 2018 to October 2019 in communities of China.Overall 1033 persons with T2DM and poor sleep quality received CBT plus usual care or usual care.Glycosylated hemoglobin A1c(HbAlc)and sleep quality[Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index(PSQI)]were assessed.Repeated measures analysis of variance and generalized linear mixed effects models were used to estimate the intervention effects on hemoglobin A1c and sleep quality.RESULTS The CBT group had 0.64,0.50,and 0.9 lower PSQI scores than the control group at 2 mo,6 mo,and 12 mo,respectively.The CBT group showed 0.17 and 0.43 lower HbAlc values than the control group at 6 mo and 12 mo.The intervention on meanΔHbAlc values was significant at 12 mo(t=3.68,P<0.01)and that meanΔPSQI scores were closely related toΔHbAlc values(t=7.02,P<0.01).Intentionto-treat analysis for primary and secondary outcomes showed identical results with completed samples.No adverse events were reported.CONCLUSION CBT delivered by general practitioners,as an effective and practical method,could reduce glycemic levels and improve sleep quality for patients with T2DM in community.

The Effect of the Group Cognitive Behavior Therapy in a Nurse’s Burnout and Intention to Resign

Purpose: The purpose of the present study was to decrease burnout and intention to resign by practicing cognitive behavioral approach to nurses of the 3 years nursing clinical experience. Methods: Nurses (N = 180) who worked at acute-care hospitals and whose clinical experience was 3 years were requested. Nurses (n = 95, male 5, female 90) who were able to do participation at all the sessions were objects. The program was created and carried out for a nurse’s burnout with reference to cognitive behavior therapy. Evaluation of intervention was asked to complete a questionnaire that measured burnout (MBI), job stressors (NJSS), automatic thoughts (the shorter version of Japanese version ATQ-R), Irrational Belief Test for Nurses (IBTN), coping measure and whether or not they had an intention to resign. Measurement was performed 3 times of a baseline, after the end of session and follow-up. Analysis of covariance which adjusted the baseline level was performed. Result: According to the results, “helplessness”, “positive thinking” and “personal accomplishment” were significant (p < 0.01). According to the results of Friedman test, significant difference was observed in “emotional exhaustion” in the group with low degree of irrational belief (p < 0.10 ) and in the group with high degree (p < 0.05). With regard to the intention to leave the job, “wants to continue working as a nurse” was significant in the group in 3 months after intervention (p < 0.05). Conclusion: It is suggested that cognitive behavioral approach appears to be effective for reducing nurse’s burnout or intention to resign in nurses of the 3 years nursing clinical experience.

Effects of Religious vs. Conventional Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy on Inflammatory Markers and Stress Hormones in Major Depression and Chronic Medical Illness: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Depressive disorder is often accompanied by physiological changes that may adversely affect the course of medical illness, including an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines. Methods: We examine the effects of religious cognitive behavioral therapy (RCBT) vs. conventional CBT (CCBT) on pro-/anti-inflammatory indicators and stress hormones in 132 individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) and chronic medical illness who were recruited into a multi-site randomized clinical trial. Biomarkers (C-reactive protein and pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-12-p70), anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL1ra, IL-4, IL-10), and stress hormones (urinary cortisol, epinephrine, norepinephrine) were assessed at baseline, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks. Differential effects of baseline religiosity on treatment response were also examined, along with effects of religiosity on changes in biomarkers over time independent of treatment group. Biomarker levels were log transformed where possible to normalize distributions. Mixed models were used to examine trajectories of change. Results: CRP increased and IL-4, IL-10, and epinephrine decreased over time, mostly in the opposite direction expected (except epinephrine). No significant difference between RCBT and CCBT was found on average trajectory of change in any biomarkers. Religiosity interacted with treatment group in effects on IL-6, such that CCBT was more effective than RCBT in lowering lL-6 in those with low religiosity whereas RCBT appeared to be more effective than CCBT in those with high religiosity. Higher baseline religiosity also tended to predict an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines INF-γ and IL-12 (p70) and urinary cortisol over time. Conclusions: RCBT and CCBT had similar effects on stress biomarkers. CCBT was more effective in reducing IL-6 levels in those with low religiosity, whereas RCBT tended to be more effective in those with high religiosity. Unexpectedly, higher baseline religiosity was associated with an increase in several stress biomarkers.

Effect of cognitive behavioral group therapy on rehabilitation of community patients with schizophrenia:A short-term randomized control trial

BACKGROUND The efficacy of cognitive behavioral group therapy(CBGT)for cognitive dysfunction and negative symptoms of schizophrenia is established,but more evidence is required.AIM To assess the effectiveness of CBGT combined with mental health education as a treatment for schizophrenia compared with mental health education alone.METHODS In all,120 schizophrenia out-patients were randomized into CBGT combined with mental health education or single mental health education.The primary outcomes were positive and negative symptoms,cognitive function,excitatory factor,anxiety and depression symptom improvements on the positive and negative syndrome scale score.Secondary outcome measures included social function and drug compliance.RESULTS There were significant differences between CBGT combined with mental health education and single mental health education on measures of positive and negative symptoms,cognitive functions,excitatory factor,anxiety and depression symptoms,and social functions.No other significant difference in outcomes was observed.CONCLUSION CBGT combined with mental health education may be relevant beneficial treatment method in reducing symptoms,cognitive and social functions of patients with schizophrenia.

Effect of cognitive behavior therapy training and psychological nursing on the midwifery process in the delivery room

BACKGROUND The severe physical and psychological impact of pain on the physical and mental health of women during labor leads to increased risks and complications during childbirth,presenting a major public health concern.Some studies have shown that cognitive behavioral therapy(CBT)has a positive effect on maternal psychology during delivery,reducing stress and shortening labor time.Thus,CBT training for mothers and delivery room staff may be beneficial in minimizing complications and adverse effects during natural birth.AIM To investigate the clinical effects of CBT training and psychological care during delivery,and their therapeutic effects on women in labor.METHODS This study used a retrospective analysis and included 140 mothers admitted to the maternity ward between January 2021 and January 2023.The study subjects were randomized into two groups:control(n=70)and observation(n=70).Routine care,CBT training,and psychological care were provided to mothers in both groups.Psychological status scores,delivery time,and satisfaction with care pre-and post-delivery were compared,and the incidence of complications after receiving care was analyzed between the two groups.RESULTS Although the psychological state of both groups improved significantly in the late stages of labor,the psychological state scores of the mothers in the observation group were significantly lower than those of the mothers in the control group(P<0.05).The duration of labor and incidence of complications in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group(P<0.05).The mothers in the observation group were significantly more satisfied with nursing care during the course of labor than those in the control group(P<0.05).CONCLUSION CBT training and psychological care for mothers in the midwifery process can effectively improve anxiety and depression,shorten labor duration,reduce postnatal complications,and improve nursing satisfaction and nurse-patient relationships.Its clinical application is effective and has popularization value,providing a new way to protect maternal mental health.

New antioxidant SkQ1 is an effective protector of rat eye retinal pigment epithelium and choroid under conditions of long-term organotypic cultivation

Cells have intrinsic mechanisms for cleaning harmful oxidants represented mainly by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Despite the antioxidant defense, ROS can cause serious damage to the retina that with age leads to various eye diseases and even blindness. Among numerous cell sites of ROS generation, mitochondrial electron transport is of crucial importance. Recently, for the purpose of cleaning ROS in the mitochondrial matrix, powerful mitochondria- targeted antioxidant “SkQ1” has been invented. We studied SkQ1 effects upon tissues of rat posterior eye cup that consisted: retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) ? choroidal coat ? scleral coat. The eye cups were isolated from the eyes of adult albino rats and cultivated in rotary tissue culture system in the presence of 20 nM SkQ1 or without this compound. After 7 days - 1 month in vitro eye cup samples were studied by immunohistochemistry, routine histology, morphometry, and digital image analysis. We have found that under chosen, “in vitro like in vivo” conditions 20 nM SkQ1 effectively reduced cell death in RPE and choroid, protected RPE from disintegration caused by cell phenotypic transformation and withdrawal from the layer, suppressed transmigration of choroidal coat cells. In the ex vivo model we used degenerative processes were more pronounced in the eye cup center where SkQ1 effect was most vivid. All this give us hopes for effectiveness of SkQ1 treatment of retinal central part that is very susceptible to light-induced over-oxidation injury and mostly suffering in many age-related diseases, AMD, in particular.

Developing and Evaluating the Effectiveness of the Behavioral-Cognitive-Metacognitive Intervention on the Severity of Obsessive- Compulsive Disorder’s Symptoms

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a disorder which is resistant to the existing treatments and to compensate this defect, it is necessary to design and search for the new treatments. This study aims to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of the behavioral-cognitive-metacognitive intervention on the symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder. In order to achieve objectives of the study, after developing the behavioral-cognitive-metacognitive intervention, it was evaluated in a single-subject procedure. OCI-R scores at baseline were obtained by following the treatment on 3 individuals. The study was a single-subject research and the data were analyzed by drawing the graph. Graph drawing results showed that the behavioral-cognitive-metacognitive intervention reduced the symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and reduction of OCD symptoms was also clinically significant. As the intervention of the present study is multi-dimensional and takes into account all the three behavioral, cognitive and metacognitive aspects and considers them interdependent and not apart or contradictory, it is considered as a new intervention.

Cognitive and Behavioral Effects of Participatory Sex Education on the Dual Prevention of STI/HIV/AIDS and Unwanted Pregnancies among Adolescents in Kinshasa High Schools, DR Congo

Context: With the view to reorient both STI/HIV/AIDS prevention and adolescents pregnancies, this research study aims at evaluating cognitive and behavioral acquisitions, as well as the process of interactive sex education participatory approach among adolescents in Kinshasa high schools. Methods: Based on a “pre and post” virtually experimental design, two crosswise surveys were conducted in Kinshasa, for six months in 2011-2012 on 484 high school students (pre-survey) and on 441 high school students (post-survey), whose age range from 14 - 19 years including both sexes. Two participatory educational talks (PET) “A” and “B”, covered weekly in two different schools, were compared to a control group school. The PET “A” consisted of interactive interpersonal communication sessions given by an external expert as a substitute for the life education course in one school. The PET “B” carried out in another school, included more educational talk sessions, led by the external expert and supplemented by a close follow-up of teenagers divided into small groups of 10 participants. The subjects’ assessment was based on their knowledge, attitudes and practices relating to STI/HIV/AIDS dual prevention as well as to unwanted pregnancies. Results: The subjects involved in the PET “B” displayed a better/higher performance based on their knowledge, attitudes and practices related to STI/HIV/AIDS dual prevention and unwanted pregnancies. Broadly speaking, knowledge has been improved 6 times with the PET “B” (OR = 6, 10, IC 95%) (3.24 - 11.9), and 3 times with the PET “A” (OR = 3, 45, IC 95%) (1.79 - 6.81), compared to control school. Similarly, findings on subjects’ attitudes show an improvement rated 12 times with the PET”B” (OR = 11, 99, IC 95%) (5.67 - 27.38) and 5 times for the PET “A” (OR = 5.51, IC 95%) (2.54 - 12.87). As far as the subjects’ practices are concerned, an improvement of 6 more times of protected sexual intercourses with the PET “B” compared with the control school group (OR = 6, 52, IC 95%) (3.60 - 12.0). The process assessment records a spontaneous involvement of schools enhanced by the positive contribution of Life Education and Biology teachers;add a massive participation of adolescents who requested permanent PET program. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that school sexual education programs can be improved to increase the quality of apprenticeship. The use of interactive methods and the consideration of the adolescents’ specific needs that take into account the gender approach may bring about beneficial advantages on both educational outcomes and reproductive health of adolescents.