The use of physiological and biometric data collection devices in urban space design research has emerged as a cutting-edge approach, particularly for understanding the importance of incorporating natural elements into city living environments to promote the health and well-being of their inhabitants. This study explores state-of-the-art advanced sensor technologies, such as heart rate monitors, galvanic skin response detectors, and eye-tracking and electroencephalography devices, to collect real-time data on human interactions with nature in places where concrete predominates. By analyzing these responses, researchers can quantify the restorative and health-promoting effects of nature, which are often difficult to measure through traditional survey methods. The precision, immediacy, and integration of data obtained through these new data collection technologies have boosted experimental research in this field, allowing a more nuanced understanding of the effects and variations in individual cognitive and emotional responses and contributing relevant neuroscientific, behavioural, and psychological insights. This comprehensive view of human interactions with urban nature highlights the potential of physiological and biometric devices as a source of information from their users to optimize urban planning and policy decisions aimed at creating healthier and more liveable cities. This work also addresses challenges such as data privacy, ethical considerations, and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration. Overall, the use of these innovative technologies represents a significant advancement in the quest to harmonize urban development with the natural environment, ultimately improving the quality of life of urban populations.

Introduction. Proteins in the HSP70 class have been known for their neuroprotective properties for a long time. However, the mechanisms by which they exert their effects are not fully understood. Therefore, we aimed to determine how HSP70 contributes to optimal antioxidant protection of rat cortical neurons during cerebral ischemia/hypoxia.

Methods. We simulated neurodestruction in vitro by adding 80 μmol/L of 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (CDNB) (a toxic amount) and 100 μmol/L of glutamate (modeling glutamate excitotoxicity) to neuronal suspensions. Brain thiol–disulfide system status was assessed by fluorimetry according to reduced glutathione and oxidized glutathione content. The spectrophotometric method was used to measure the levels of free SH groups and glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione transferase activities. A solid-phase ELISA method was used to determine the HSP70 levels.

Results. When CDNB was administered to the neurons in vitro, there was a decrease in cell viability, a depletion of cytosolic and mitochondrial GSH pools, a significant increase in ROS, and decreased HSP70 levels. Administration of HSP70 to the neurons preincubated with CDNB resulted in an increase in GSH levels and a decrease in ROS. HSP70 administration increased the functional activity of the glutathione system in the neurons.

Conclusion. HSP70, proteins with pronounced neuroprotective properties, mobilize antioxidant resources in the neurons under ischemic/hypoxic conditions, preventing the development of oxidative stress by increasing cytosolic and mitochondrial glutathione levels.

Heart rate variability (HRV) analysis is one of the actively developing areas of physiology and functional diagnostics, as it allows the functional condition of the vegetative status, as well as the condition of adaptation mechanisms under stress loads, to be objectively assessed. The aim of the study is to investigate changes in heart rate variability in badminton players of different age groups during an orthostatic test. Electrocardiograms were recorded using a PowerLab (ADInstruments) installation throughout the study protocol. Processing was performed using the built-in ECG analysis module in the Lab Chart Pro 8.0 software. The effects of HRV changes were assessed every 10 seconds. In the age groups of 8-10 years (n = 16) and 17-19 years (n = 10), HF waves prevailed at rest in 68% and 80% of the subjects, and LF waves were recorded in 12% and 20% of the subjects, respectively. During the active orthostatic test, a decrease in parasympathetic effects and an increase in sympathetic effects on the heart were observed in all age groups. This was most clearly manifested in the age group of 17-19 years. VLF waves decreased during the active orthostatic test at 8-10 years and did not change in athletes aged 17-19 years. The results obtained demonstrate the high information content of the active orthostatic test in assessing the functional and adaptive reactions of badminton players in response to physical activity, and they may be associated with the specifics of the sport and the length of training.

Introduction. Monomelic amyotrophy (Hirayama disease) is a rare form of non-progressive motoneuron disease caused by necrotic lesions of the anterior horns of the spinal cord. Purpose of the study. To evaluate the condition of the patient's leg muscles by electromyography.Methods.A 17-year-old young man with complaints of weakness and fatigue in both hands (more pronounced on the right side) and weakness in legs when bending the head was examined. Clinical and neurological, electrophysiologic analysis, MRI of the head and neck while performing functional tests were performed. To assess muscle strength, the patient performed maximal dorsal flexion of the foot on himself, head straight and head down, while EMG was recorded from the anterior tibial muscles of both legs. Results. MRI data revealed characteristic signs of monomyelic atrophy. Atrophy of the hand muscles on the right side, fascializations were clinically revealed. During neck flexion, there was weakness 4b in the extensors of the feet after 1 minute. The amplitude of the motor response of the tibialis anterior muscle during head tilt on the right decreased by 4 times, and on the left by 6 times, with a more pronounced decrease in strength in the upper extremities in the right arm than in the left. According to the literature, the "classical" variant of monomyelic amyotrophy is not characterized by sensory disorders, pyramidal symptoms, and involvement of leg muscles. Conclusion. The use of electrophysiological methods of investigation along with neuroimaging methods allowed to establish a more accurate picture of the course of the disease.

Introduction. The analysis of motor strategies includes only ankle and hip strategies, without considering the possible role of the knee joint, although coordinated control of knee joint movements plays a significant role in maintaining posture stability. Methods. Electromyography and stabilometry parameters were recorded in healthy subjects with and without knee joint fixation. The tests included: eye-open test (control), Romberg test, and "Target" test. Results. Stabilometry results of control and knee fixation were compared. Knee fixation reduced the total power of pressure center oscillations in all tests except for the Romberg test with closed eyes, in which some shift of the spectrum to higher frequencies was observed. At the same time in the test "Target" both in norm and at knee fixation the spectrum shifted to the zone of higher frequencies, the changes were less pronounced in the experimental group. At restriction of knee joint mobility there was a decrease in the activity of the anterior tibial muscle. During visual deprivation in the Romberg test, the electrical activity of the tibial muscle decreased. When registering electromyograms from the cambaloid muscle, there was a tendency to a decrease in activity in tests with fixation of knee joints.

Conclusion. At restriction of knee joint mobility the system of balance regulation improves due to activation of vestibular and proprioceptive afferent systems.

Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a promising tool for managing and regulating the symptoms of schizophrenia, offering innovative approaches to supplementing the traditional therapeutic interventions. By creating immersive, computer-generated environments, VR provides individuals with a safe and controlled space to engage in therapeutic exercises.

One novel VR method involves social skills training, which addresses the challenges individuals with schizophrenia often face in social interactions. VR simulations can recreate real-life scenarios, allowing patients to practice social cues, communication skills, and emotional recognition in a supportive environment. By repeatedly engaging in these simulated interactions, individuals can improve their social functioning and reduce anxiety in real-world social situations.

Another application of VR in schizophrenia treatment is cognitive remediation. Cognitive deficits are common in schizophrenia and can significantly impact daily functioning. VR-based cognitive training programs provide interactive exercises that target attention, memory, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Through repeated practice and feedback within a virtual environment, individuals can enhance their cognitive abilities, leading to improved overall functioning and quality of life.

Additionally, VR has shown promise in treating hallucinations and delusions, core symptoms of schizophrenia. Virtual reality experiences can be tailored to replicate specific hallucinatory experiences, allowing individuals to confront and gain control over their perceptions. By gradually exposing patients to simulated hallucinations, therapists can guide them through coping strategies and cognitive restructuring techniques, ultimately reducing the distress associated with these symptoms.

Introduction: Mathematical anxiety (MA) causes worry and fear in performing mathematical tasks, potentially leading to the avoidance of math-related situations and careers. This study aimed to explore the correlation between event-related potentials (ERPs) during conscious and unconscious math performance and the level of MA.

Methods: This research involved 24 participants (13 females, mean age 21.4 years) that were assessed using a shortened MA rating scale (mean sMARS results: 60±19). Single-digit addition problems (large and small) were presented, followed by correct and incorrect answers in two experimental blocks with conscious and unconscious perception of arithmetic tasks. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient was used to analyze the correlation between sMARS results and average ERP amplituded in the 300–400 ms interval after the solution was presented.

Results: A moderate negative correlation (-0.450 < r < -0.650) was found between MA level and ERP amplitude in fronto-central leads in response to the correct solutions during conscious and unconscious small problem presentation. For the conscious presentation of large problems, a moderate negative correlation (-0.450 < r < -0.550) was observed. No correlation was found for the unconscious presentation of large problems or incorrect answers.

Conclusion: Increased MA levels corresponded to reduced ERP amplitudes for correct solutions, both consciously and unconsciously. It was previously established that arithmetic skill correlated with P300 amplitude for correct answers. High MA individuals tend to avoid math situations, potentially affecting their ability to extract answers from memory, leading to diminished N400/P300 arithmetic effect in both conscious and unconscious perception.

This study was supported by the RSF (grant № 23-78-01220).

Background: In Orch OR theory, polarized molecules forming microtubules of brain neurons store information data in the form of quantum fields or spins of electrons and other spinors. The entanglement of molecules, as well as fields and spinors, increases the capacity of the brain to store information data. After a period of time, physical and environmental factors reduce the entanglement between molecules, fields and spins, and some molecules lose their ability to store quantum fields. As a result, the information data stored in these molecules are lost and the person suffers from Alzheimer's disease.
Puropose: To consider (1) the age dependency of Alzheimer's and its relation with polarized molecules in Orch OR model. To consider (2) the effect of the type of social activity on the entanglement between polarized molecules, neuronal signals and, later, Alzheimer's disease
Method: First, some mathematical calculations were carried out, and the dependency of entanglement between polarized molecules in time and electrical signals between neurons has been considered. Then, these theoretical results were tested experimentally by collecting the reports of people and also reports from previous investigations and comparing data with theory.
Result: The results of this study show that with increasing age, the rate of forgetting past events increases and gradually the person suffers from Alzheimer's. However, people who are more socially active and have to be responsible in society suffer from Alzheimer's later.
Conclusion:
With increasing age, gradually, polarized molecules that have the task of storing information in the microtubules of brain neurons lose their polarization and as a result, the person suffers from Alzheimer's.

Implicit biases are often costly to the self and others since implicit biases can impair cognitive functioning, social interactions, physical health, and psychological wellbeing. A variety of di erent interventions have therefore been used in an attempt to decrease implicit bias in participants including psychopharmacology, interpersonal and imaginary contact, cognitive and emotional training, and adopting alternative perspectives through virtual embodiment. Recently, brain stimulation techniques such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) have also been used with the goal of decreasing implicit bias in participants. But how e ective, if at all, is tDCS at decreasing implicit bias? The purpose of this research is to address this question by systematically reviewing all relevant studies that compared the in uence of tDCS versus sham stimulation on implicit bias as measured by a variety of implicit association tests (IATs). Using a random e ects model, this meta-analysis found a small e ect for tDCS versus sham on increasing RTs during IATs in males (k = 28, SMD = 0.252, p = 0.012) but a very small e ect for tDCS versus sham on decreasing RTs during IATs in females (k = 28, SMD = -0.140, p = 0.026). Further, this meta-analysis found no statistically signi cant e ect for tDCS versus sham on in uencing D values (bias scores) in males (k = 14, SMD = -0.176, p = 0.143) or in females (k = 14, SMD = 0.134, p = 0.081). Here I discuss the results of this research on tDCS and implicit associations, its practical value, along with limitations and prospects for future work.

This study aimed to analyze the effect of ketamine (KT) on Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) symptoms and explore the underlying neural mechanisms from a magnetoencephalographic (MEG) perspective.

Methods: Databases including EBSCO, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were searched for studies on MEG observations of KT intervention in MDD patients, covering publications up to June 2024.

Results: In total, 14 RCTs from the United States, involving 351 MDD subjects aged 18-65, were included. The studies, mainly published after 2016 in molecular and biological psychiatry journals, used the DSM-IV criteria for MDD diagnosis. KT was administered at 0.5 mg/kg, with a placebo of 0.9% saline, for a duration of less than 40 minutes. KT significantly improved depression, anxiety, psychotic symptoms, and suicidal ideation, as evidenced by reductions in Montgomery Depression Rating Scale scores. MEG findings indicated the following: 1) AMPA-mediated glutamatergic transmission increase; 2) increased anterior cingulate gyrus (ACC) activation correlating with rapid antidepressant response; 3) prefrontal ACC involvement negatively correlated with symptom improvement during increased working memory load; 4) increased functional connectivity of the anterior striatum; 5) hydroxyketamine levels correlated with gamma power and antidepressant efficacy; 6) baseline gamma power predicted post-dosing gamma power and antidepressant efficacy; 7) decreased connectivity between the amygdala and temporal insula; 8) prefrontal ACC–eft amygdala connectivity negatively correlated with symptom changes; 9) increased δ-α and δ-γ connectivity in responders, and decreased connectivity in non-responders; and 10) fusiform M170 component association with antidepressant effects.

Conclusion: KT improves depression and enhances resting functional connectivity in MDD patients; however, the involved frequency bands are inconsistent and the findings lack reproducibility.