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Hurtado AR, Mesa-Pérez E, Berbel J. Systems Modeling of the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems Nexus: Insights from a Region Facing Structural Water Scarcity in Southern Spain. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024:10.1007/s00267-024-02037-6. [PMID: 39271532 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-024-02037-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024]
Abstract
The complex relationship between water, energy, food, and ecological systems, known as the WEFE nexus, has emerged as a major topic in the debate about sustainable economic development and resource management. This subject is of special interest in Mediterranean coastal areas as rapid economic expansion driven by population growth, higher influx of tourists, and intensification of agriculture is leading to structural water scarcity conditions. However, addressing the diverse range of issues associated with the nexus is a difficult task due to the existence of intricate interconnections, interdependencies, and nonlinearities within and across its various components. Accordingly, this case study applies a combination of participatory systems modeling and network analysis tools to yield insights into the complexity of this nexus in Axarquia, a region with features that make it an example of water-stressed jurisdictions in the Mediterranean. Overall, our results provide a strong foundation to understand the dynamics that govern this nexus in regions where the availability of freshwater resources is a significant concern. Furthermore, they lay the groundwork for the development of models and scenarios to simulate the impact of various policies and interventions on the overall system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio R Hurtado
- Water, Environmental and Agricultural Resources Economics (WEARE) Research Group, Department of Agricultural Economics, Universidad de Córdoba, Campus Rabanales Building C5, 14014, Córdoba, Spain.
| | - Enrique Mesa-Pérez
- Departamento de Economía Financiera y Contabilidad, Universidad Loyola Andalucía, 41704, Dos Hermanas (Sevilla), Spain
| | - Julio Berbel
- Water, Environmental and Agricultural Resources Economics (WEARE) Research Group, Department of Agricultural Economics, Universidad de Córdoba, Campus Rabanales Building C5, 14014, Córdoba, Spain
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2
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Birkeland MS, Sundnes J. Advancing the understanding and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder with computational modelling. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2024:2360814. [PMID: 38934047 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2024.2360814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The existing theories of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have inspired large volumes of research and have contributed substantially to our current knowledge base. However, most of the theories are of a qualitative and verbal nature, and may be difficult to evaluate and compare with each other. In this paper, we propose that one way forward is to use computational modelling to formulate more precise theories of PTSD that can be evaluated by (1) assessing whether the model can explain fundamental phenomena related to PTSD, and (2) comparing simulated outcomes with real data. Computational modelling can force us to describe processes more precisely and achieve stronger theories that are viable for testing. Establishing the theoretical groundwork before undertaking empirical studies can help us to avoid doing research with low probability of valid results, and counteract the replicability crisis in psychology. In conclusion, computational modelling is a promising avenue for advancing the understanding and treatment of PTSD.
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3
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Uleman JF, Stronks K, Rutter H, Arah OA, Rod NH. Mapping complex public health problems with causal loop diagrams. Int J Epidemiol 2024; 53:dyae091. [PMID: 38990180 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyae091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This paper presents causal loop diagrams (CLDs) as tools for studying complex public health problems like health inequality. These problems often involve feedback loops-a characteristic of complex systems not fully integrated into mainstream epidemiology. CLDs are conceptual models that visualize connections between system variables. They are commonly developed through literature reviews or participatory methods with stakeholder groups. These diagrams often uncover feedback loops among variables across scales (e.g. biological, psychological and social), facilitating cross-disciplinary insights. We illustrate their use through a case example involving the feedback loop between sleep problems and depressive symptoms. We outline a typical step-by-step process for developing CLDs in epidemiology. These steps are defining a specific problem, identifying the key system variables involved, mapping these variables and analysing the CLD to find new insights and possible intervention targets. Throughout this process, we suggest triangulating between diverse sources of evidence, including domain knowledge, scientific literature and empirical data. CLDs can also be evaluated to guide policy changes and future research by revealing knowledge gaps. Finally, CLDs may be iteratively refined as new evidence emerges. We advocate for more widespread use of complex systems tools, like CLDs, in epidemiology to better understand and address complex public health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeroen F Uleman
- Department of Public Health, Copenhagen Health Complexity Center, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Karien Stronks
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Harry Rutter
- Department of Social and Policy Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Onyebuchi A Arah
- Department of Epidemiology, The Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Statistics and Data Science, Division of Physical Sciences, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Public Health, Research Unit for Epidemiology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Practical Causal Inference Lab, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Naja Hulvej Rod
- Department of Public Health, Copenhagen Health Complexity Center, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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4
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Hagenaars LL, Schmidt LA, Groeniger JO, Bekker MPM, Ter Ellen F, de Leeuw E, van Lenthe FJ, Oude Hengel KM, Stronks K. Why we struggle to make progress in obesity prevention and how we might overcome policy inertia: Lessons from the complexity and political sciences. Obes Rev 2024; 25:e13705. [PMID: 38424004 DOI: 10.1111/obr.13705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Despite evidence for the effectiveness of policies that target obesogenic environments, their adoption remains deficient. Using methods and concepts from complexity and political science (Stock-and-Flow analysis and Punctuated Equilibrium Theory) and a qualitative literature review, we developed system maps to identify feedback loops that hinder policymaking on mitigating obesogenic environments and feedback loops that could trigger and sustain policy change. We found numerous self-reinforcing feedback loops that buttress the assumption that obesity is an individual problem, strengthening the biomedical and commercial weight-loss sectors' claim to "ownership" over solutions. That is, improvements in therapies for individuals with obesity reinforces policymakers' reluctance to target obesogenic environments. Random events that focus attention on obesity (e.g., celebrities dismissing soda) could disrupt this cycle, when actors from outside the medical and weight-loss sector (e.g., anti-weight stigma activists) successfully reframe obesity as a societal problem, which requires robust and politically relevant engagement with affected communities prior to such events taking place. Sustained prioritization of policies targeting obesogenic environments requires shared problem ownership of affected communities and nonhealth government sectors, by emphasizing cobenefits of policies that target obesogenic environments (e.g., ultraprocessed food taxation for raising revenue) and solutions that are meaningful for affected communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luc L Hagenaars
- Department of Public Health, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Laura A Schmidt
- Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Joost Oude Groeniger
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marleen P M Bekker
- Health and Society Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Fleur Ter Ellen
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Evelyne de Leeuw
- Urban Health and Policy, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- École de Santé Publique, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Frank J van Lenthe
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Human Geography and Spatial Planning, Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Karen M Oude Hengel
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Work Health Technology, Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research TNO, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Karien Stronks
- Department of Public Health, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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5
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Beenackers MA, Kruize H, Barsties L, Acda A, Bakker I, Droomers M, Kamphuis CBM, Koomen E, Nijkamp JE, Vaandrager L, Völker B, Luijben G, Ruijsbroek A. Urban densification in the Netherlands and its impact on mental health: An expert-based causal loop diagram. Health Place 2024; 87:103218. [PMID: 38564990 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2024.103218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Urban densification is a key strategy to accommodate rapid urban population growth, but emerging evidence suggests serious risks of urban densification for individuals' mental health. To better understand the complex pathways from urban densification to mental health, we integrated interdisciplinary expert knowledge in a causal loop diagram via group model building techniques. Six subsystems were identified: five subsystems describing mechanisms on how changes in the urban system caused by urban densification may impact mental health, and one showing how changes in mental health may alter urban densification. The new insights can help to develop resilient, healthier cities for all.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariëlle A Beenackers
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Hanneke Kruize
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands; HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Lisa Barsties
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands.
| | - Annelies Acda
- Annelies Acda Advies - public health, policy and the built environment, Bussum, the Netherlands.
| | - Ingrid Bakker
- Department of Urban Innovation, Research Centre of Social Innovations Flevoland, Windesheim University of Applied Sciences, Almere, the Netherlands.
| | - Mariël Droomers
- Department of Public Health, City of Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Carlijn B M Kamphuis
- Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Eric Koomen
- Department of Spatial Economics, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Jeannette E Nijkamp
- Department of Healthy Cities, Research Centre for Built Environment NoorderRuimte, Hanze University of Applied Sciences Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Lenneke Vaandrager
- Health and Society, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Beate Völker
- Department Human Geography and Spatial Planning, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Netherlands Centre for the Study of Crime and Law Enforcement (NSCR), Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Guus Luijben
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands.
| | - Annemarie Ruijsbroek
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands.
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6
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Uleman JF, Quax R, Melis RJF, Hoekstra AG, Olde Rikkert MGM. The need for systems thinking to advance Alzheimer's disease research. Psychiatry Res 2024; 333:115741. [PMID: 38277813 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.115741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Despite extensive research efforts to mechanistically understand late-onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD) and other complex mental health disorders, curative treatments remain elusive. We emphasize the multiscale multicausality inherent to LOAD, highlighting the interplay between interconnected pathophysiological processes and risk factors. Systems thinking methods, such as causal loop diagrams and systems dynamic models, offer powerful means to capture and study this complexity. Recent studies developed and validated a causal loop diagram and system dynamics model using multiple longitudinal data sets, enabling the simulation of personalized interventions on various modifiable risk factors in LOAD. The results indicate that targeting factors like sleep disturbance and depressive symptoms could be promising and yield synergistic benefits. Furthermore, personalized interventions showed significant potential, with top-ranked intervention strategies differing significantly across individuals. We argue that systems thinking approaches can open new prospects for multifactorial precision medicine. In future research, systems thinking may also guide structured, model-driven data collection on the multiple interactions in LOAD's complex multicausality, facilitating theory development and possibly resulting in effective prevention and treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeroen F Uleman
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Geriatric Medicine, Radboudumc Alzheimer Center, Donders Institute for Medical Neuroscience, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Rick Quax
- Computational Science Lab, Informatics Institute, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - René J F Melis
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Alfons G Hoekstra
- Computational Science Lab, Informatics Institute, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marcel G M Olde Rikkert
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Radboudumc Alzheimer Center, Donders Institute for Medical Neuroscience, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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7
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Hasselman F. Understanding the complexity of individual developmental pathways: A primer on metaphors, models, and methods to study resilience in development. Dev Psychopathol 2023; 35:2186-2198. [PMID: 37814420 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579423001281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
The modern study of resilience in development is conceptually based on a complex adaptive system ontology in which many (intersystem) factors are involved in the emergence of resilient developmental pathways. However, the methods and models developed to study complex dynamical systems have not been widely adopted, and it has recently been noted this may constitute a problem moving the field forward. In the present paper, I argue that an ontological commitment to complex adaptive systems is not only possible, but highly recommended for the study of resilience in development. Such a commitment, however, also comes with a commitment to a different causal ontology and different research methods. In the first part of the paper, I discuss the extent to which current research on resilience in development conceptually adheres to the complex systems perspective. In the second part, I introduce conceptual tools that may help researchers conceptualize causality in complex systems. The third part discusses idiographic methods that could be used in a research program that embraces the interaction dominant causal ontology and idiosyncratic nature of the dynamics of complex systems. The conclusion is that a strong ontological commitment is warranted, but will require a radical departure from nomothetic science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred Hasselman
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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8
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Crielaard L, Quax R, Sawyer ADM, Vasconcelos VV, Nicolaou M, Stronks K, Sloot PMA. Using network analysis to identify leverage points based on causal loop diagrams leads to false inference. Sci Rep 2023; 13:21046. [PMID: 38030634 PMCID: PMC10687004 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46531-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Network analysis is gaining momentum as an accepted practice to identify which factors in causal loop diagrams (CLDs)-mental models that graphically represent causal relationships between a system's factors-are most likely to shift system-level behaviour, known as leverage points. This application of network analysis, employed to quantitatively identify leverage points without having to use computational modelling approaches that translate CLDs into sets of mathematical equations, has however not been duly reflected upon. We evaluate whether using commonly applied network analysis metrics to identify leverage points is justified, focusing on betweenness- and closeness centrality. First, we assess whether the metrics identify the same leverage points based on CLDs that represent the same system but differ in inferred causal structure-finding that they provide unreliable results. Second, we consider conflicts between assumptions underlying the metrics and CLDs. We recognise six conflicts suggesting that the metrics are not equipped to take key information captured in CLDs into account. In conclusion, using betweenness- and closeness centrality to identify leverage points based on CLDs is at best premature and at worst incorrect-possibly causing erroneous identification of leverage points. This is problematic as, in current practice, the results can inform policy recommendations. Other quantitative or qualitative approaches that better correspond with the system dynamics perspective must be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loes Crielaard
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Institute for Advanced Study, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Rick Quax
- Institute for Advanced Study, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Computational Science Lab, Informatics Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alexia D M Sawyer
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, Institute of Metabolic Science, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge, UK
| | - Vítor V Vasconcelos
- Institute for Advanced Study, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Computational Science Lab, Informatics Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- POLDER, Institute for Advanced Study, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Center for Urban Mental Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mary Nicolaou
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Institute for Advanced Study, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Center for Urban Mental Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Karien Stronks
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Institute for Advanced Study, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Center for Urban Mental Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter M A Sloot
- Institute for Advanced Study, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Computational Science Lab, Informatics Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Center for Urban Mental Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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9
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Wang L, Pronk AC, van Poelgeest EP, Briggs R, Claassen JAHR, Jansen S, Klop M, de Lange FJ, Meskers CCGM, Odekerken VJJ, Payne SJ, Trappenburg MC, Thijs RD, Uleman JF, Hoekstra AG, van der Velde N. Applying systems thinking to unravel the mechanisms underlying orthostatic hypotension related fall risk. GeroScience 2023; 45:2743-2755. [PMID: 37115348 PMCID: PMC10651607 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-023-00802-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is an established and common cardiovascular risk factor for falls. An in-depth understanding of the various interacting pathophysiological pathways contributing to OH-related falls is essential to guide improvements in diagnostic and treatment opportunities. We applied systems thinking to multidisciplinary map out causal mechanisms and risk factors. For this, we used group model building (GMB) to develop a causal loop diagram (CLD). The GMB was based on the input of experts from multiple domains related to OH and falls and all proposed mechanisms were supported by scientific literature. Our CLD is a conceptual representation of factors involved in OH-related falls, and their interrelatedness. Network analysis and feedback loops were applied to analyze and interpret the CLD, and quantitatively summarize the function and relative importance of the variables. Our CLD contains 50 variables distributed over three intrinsic domains (cerebral, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal), and an extrinsic domain (e.g., medications). Between the variables, 181 connections and 65 feedback loops were identified. Decreased cerebral blood flow, low blood pressure, impaired baroreflex activity, and physical inactivity were identified as key factors involved in OH-related falls, based on their high centralities. Our CLD reflects the multifactorial pathophysiology of OH-related falls. It enables us to identify key elements, suggesting their potential for new diagnostic and treatment approaches in fall prevention. The interactive online CLD renders it suitable for both research and educational purposes and this CLD is the first step in the development of a computational model for simulating the effects of risk factors on falls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Wang
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Aging and Later Life, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anouschka C Pronk
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Aging and Later Life, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eveline P van Poelgeest
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Amsterdam Public Health, Aging and Later Life, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Robert Briggs
- The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jurgen A H R Claassen
- Department of Biophysics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Sofie Jansen
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marjolein Klop
- Department of Biophysics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Frederik J de Lange
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Cardiology and Cardiothoracic Surgery, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carel C G M Meskers
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Rehabilitation Medicine, De Boelelaan, 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Vincent J J Odekerken
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Neurology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Stephen J Payne
- Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Roland D Thijs
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen F Uleman
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Institute for Advanced Study, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alfons G Hoekstra
- Computational Science Lab, Informatics Institute, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nathalie van der Velde
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Aging and Later Life, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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10
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Schmalbach I, Bastianon CD, Afifi WA, Franke GH, Hinz A, Petrowski K. Factor structure and psychometric properties of the german version chronic uncertainty scale (CU-20). BMC Psychol 2023; 11:173. [PMID: 37254124 PMCID: PMC10228435 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01206-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The experience of uncertainty is ubiquitous and universal across the globe. Many available tools measuring uncertainty are focused on one aspect of uncertainty, e.g., patients with life-threatening illnesses, hence a measure considering (chronic) uncertainty as an integral experience reflect ongoing uncertainties from a socio-cultural perspective is missing. Additionally, current tools do not account for an extended timeframe to measure chronic forms of uncertainty. The objective of this study is to validate a translated German version of the 20 item Chronic Uncertainty Scale (CU-20). METHODS The full sample comprised N = 462 participants. Most of the participants were young German citizens and the sex distribution was relatively balanced (60% females; age in average: M = 24.56; SD = 4.78). Using equally split samples, an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) evaluated the CU-20 factor structure, followed by a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to test the established factor structure. Measurement invariance between male and female groups was evaluated. Internal consistency of the six-factor model was shown and scale discrimination was shown against chronic stress. RESULTS The EFA results showed decent model fit for the five-factor structure, however based on the CFA results, the theoretically established six-factor model fits the data significantly better. Measurement invariance between male and female groups was shown to be clearly scalar invariant. Cronbach's alpha, omega and lambda all support internal consistency and reliability of CU-20. CONCLUSIONS The CU-20 is a valid and reliable measure of one's state of chronic uncertainty reflecting the individuals' experiences of macrosocial forms of uncertainty, compared to the existing ones. This scale is especially useful in the context of migration, refugees or during global crises. Further psychometric testing is required in more diverse samples and a deeper look into measurement invariance is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ileana Schmalbach
- Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Duesbergweg 6 (Campus), 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Christina Diane Bastianon
- Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Duesbergweg 6 (Campus), 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Walid A Afifi
- Department of Communication, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Gabriele Helga Franke
- Psychology of Rehabilitation, University of Applied Sciences Magdeburg and Stendal, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Hinz
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Katja Petrowski
- Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Department of General, Technische Universität Dresden, Practice/MK3, Dresden, Germany.
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11
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Luna Pinzon A, Stronks K, Emke H, van den Eynde E, Altenburg T, Dijkstra SC, Renders CM, Hermans R, Busch V, Chinapaw MJM, Kremers SPJ, Waterlander W. Understanding the system dynamics of obesity-related behaviours in 10- to 14-year-old adolescents in Amsterdam from a multi-actor perspective. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1128316. [PMID: 37304107 PMCID: PMC10248031 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1128316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction and Methods To develop an understanding of the dynamics driving obesity-related behaviours in adolescents, we conducted systems-based analysis on a causal loop diagram (CLD) created from a multi-actor perspective, including academic researchers, adolescents and local stakeholders. Results The CLD contained 121 factors and 31 feedback loops. We identified six subsystems with their goals: (1) interaction between adolescents and the food environment, with profit maximisation as goal, (2) interaction between adolescents and the physical activity environment, with utility maximisation of outdoor spaces as goal, (3) interaction between adolescents and the online environment, with profit maximisation from technology use as goal, (4) interaction between adolescents, parenting and the wider socioeconomic environment, with a goal focused on individual parental responsibility, (5) interaction between healthcare professionals and families, with the goal resulting in treating obesity as an isolated problem, and (6) transition from childhood to adolescence, with the goal centring around adolescents' susceptibility to an environment that stimulates obesity-related behaviours. Discussion Analysis showed that inclusion of the researchers' and stakeholders' perspectives contributed to an understanding of how the system structure of an environment works. Integration of the adolescents' perspective enriched insights on how adolescents interact with that environment. The analysis further showed that the dynamics driving obesity-related behaviours are geared towards further reinforcing such behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angie Luna Pinzon
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Health Behaviors and Chronic Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Karien Stronks
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Health Behaviors and Chronic Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Helga Emke
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Health Behaviors and Chronic Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Emma van den Eynde
- Obesity Center CGG, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Teatske Altenburg
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Health Behaviors and Chronic Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - S. Coosje Dijkstra
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Health Behaviors and Chronic Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Carry M. Renders
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Health Behaviors and Chronic Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Roel Hermans
- Department of Health Promotion, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Vincent Busch
- Sarphati Amsterdam, Public Health Service (GGD), Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Mai J. M. Chinapaw
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Health Behaviors and Chronic Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Stef P. J. Kremers
- Department of Health Promotion, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Wilma Waterlander
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Health Behaviors and Chronic Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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12
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Lou Y, Irakoze S, Huang S, You Q, Wang S, Xu M, Gan Y, Lu Z, Jiang Q, Cao S. Association of social participation and psychological resilience with adverse cognitive outcomes among older Chinese adults: A national longitudinal study. J Affect Disord 2023; 327:54-63. [PMID: 36739004 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.01.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limited epidemiological evidence exists regarding the association of social participation and psychological resilience with cognitive health. This study aimed to comprehensively investigate the effects of social participation and psychological resilience on adverse cognitive outcomes among older adults in China. METHODS We used two waves (2011 and 2014) of data from the Chinese Longitudinal Survey of Health and Longevity (CLHLS), and 9765 respondents were eligible for the subsequent screening for the present prospective analysis. The Cox proportional hazards model was utilized to examine the association of social participation and psychological resilience with cognitive impairment, cognitive decline and greater cognitive decline. The restricted cubic spline plots were applied to clarify the dose-response relationships between them. RESULTS Compared to those with low social participation, participants with high social participation had a lower hazard ratio (HR) of 0.72 (95 % confidence interval [CI]: 0.59-0.89) for cognitive impairment, 0.85 (95 % CI: 0.76-0.94) for cognitive decline and 0.78 (95 % CI: 0.67-0.90) for greater cognitive decline. Participants with high psychological resilience had an HR of 0.77 (95 % CI: 0.63-0.95) for cognitive impairment 0.85 (95 % CI: 0.76-0.94) for cognitive decline and 0.85 (95 % CI: 0.73-0.98) for greater cognitive decline compared with those with low psychological resilience. Similar effects were observed for social participation score and psychological resilience score. The dose-response analysis also showed that the risk of adverse cognitive outcomes decreased gradually with increasing social participation scores and psychological resilience scores. Additionally, the multiplicative interaction between social participation and psychological resilience was not significant. LIMITATION All information was collected by self-report, which may lead to biases in the process of information collection. CONCLUSION In this study, social participation and psychological resilience were independently associated with a lower risk of adverse cognitive outcomes, and therefore both need to be considered as broader measures to preserve cognitive health among older Chinese adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiling Lou
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shani Irakoze
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shen Huang
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qiqi You
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shiqi Wang
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Minzhi Xu
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yong Gan
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zuxun Lu
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qingqing Jiang
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Shiyi Cao
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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13
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Uleman JF, Melis RJF, Ntanasi E, Scarmeas N, Hoekstra AG, Quax R, Rikkert MGMO. Simulating the multicausality of Alzheimer's disease with system dynamics. Alzheimers Dement 2023. [PMID: 36794757 DOI: 10.1002/alz.12923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In Alzheimer's disease (AD), cognitive decline is driven by various interlinking causal factors. Systems thinking could help elucidate this multicausality and identify opportune intervention targets. METHODS We developed a system dynamics model (SDM) of sporadic AD with 33 factors and 148 causal links calibrated with empirical data from two studies. We tested the SDM's validity by ranking intervention outcomes on 15 modifiable risk factors to two sets of 44 and 9 validation statements based on meta-analyses of observational data and randomized controlled trials, respectively. RESULTS The SDM answered 77% and 78% of the validation statements correctly. Sleep quality and depressive symptoms yielded the largest effects on cognitive decline with which they were connected through strong reinforcing feedback loops, including via phosphorylated tau burden. DISCUSSION SDMs can be constructed and validated to simulate interventions and gain insight into the relative contribution of mechanistic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeroen F Uleman
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Radboudumc Alzheimer Center, Donders Institute for Medical Neuroscience, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Institute for Advanced Study, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - René J F Melis
- Institute for Advanced Study, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Geriatric Medicine, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Eva Ntanasi
- Department of Neurology, Aiginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Scarmeas
- Department of Neurology, Aiginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece.,Department of Neurology, The Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center, Taub Institute for Research in Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | - Alfons G Hoekstra
- Computational Science Lab, Faculty of Science, Informatics Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rick Quax
- Institute for Advanced Study, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Computational Science Lab, Faculty of Science, Informatics Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel G M Olde Rikkert
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Radboudumc Alzheimer Center, Donders Institute for Medical Neuroscience, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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