Facilitators and barriers for motorcycle helmet use: protocol for a qualitative evidence synthesis

A protocol with the aim to synthesize qualitative evidence on the barriers and facilitators for use of helmets among motorized two-wheelers. To the best of our knowledge this is the first qualitative evidence synthesis on the topic

Facilitators and barriers for bicycle helmet use: protocol for qualitative evidence synthesis

A protocol with the aims to synthesize qualitative evidence on the enablers and barriers for bicycle helmet use. As far as we understand, this is the first qualitative evidence synthesis on the topic and will provide important insights to inform policy, practice, research and legislation around it

The Characteristics of 76 Atypical Neurofibromas as Precursors to Neurofibromatosis 1 Associated Malignant Peripheral nerve Sheath Tumors.

BackgroundNeurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) leads to the development of benign and malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST). MPNST have been described to develop in preexisting benign plexiform neurofibromas (PN) and have a poor prognosis. Atypical neurofibromas (ANF) were recently described as precursor lesions for MPNST, making early detection and management of ANF a possible strategy to prevent MPNST. We aimed to clinically characterize ANF and identify management approaches.MethodsWe analyzed clinical, imaging, and pathology findings of all patients with NF1 and ANF at 3 institutions.ResultsSixty-three patients had 76 ANF (32M/31F; median age 27.1 y). On MRI, most ANF appeared as distinct nodular lesions and were 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) avid. Forty-six ANF were associated with pain, 19 with motor weakness, 45 were palpable or visible, and 13 had no clinical signs. Completely resected ANF (N = 57) have not recurred (median follow-up, 4.1 y; range, 0-14 y). Four ANF transformed into MPNST and 17 patients had a history of MPNST in a different location than was their ANF.ConclusionsGrowth of distinct nodular lesions, pain, and FDG-PET avidity should raise concern for ANF in NF1. Patients with ANF are at greater risk for development of MPNST. Complete resection of ANF may prevent development of MPNST

Enhancing cardiac vagal activity:Factors of interest for sport psychology

Self-regulation plays a critical role in sport performance. An objective, psychophysiological marker of self-regulation is cardiac vagal activity, the activity of the vagus nerve regulating cardiac functioning. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of factors influencing cardiac vagal activity, which can be useful for athletes. Specifically, we organize this overview in two main domains: personal factors and environmental factors. Among the personal factors, we discuss the behavioral strategies that can be used by athletes: nutrition, non-ingestive oral habits, water immersion, body temperature reduction, sleeping habits, relaxation methods, cognitive techniques, praying, music, and exercise. Among environmental factors, we discuss those linked to the social (i.e., contact with humans and animals) and physical (i.e., aromas, lights, sounds, temperature, outdoor, altitude) environment. Future research directions are given, as well as practical implications for athletes and coaches