bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tele-Medicine Based and Self-Administered Interactive Exercise Program (Tele-Exergame) to Improve Cognition in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment or Dementia: A Feasibility, Acceptability, and Proof-of-Concept Study
Authors: Park Catherine , Mishra Ram kinker , York Michele K. , Enriquez Ana , Lindsay Abigail , Barchard Gregory , Vaziri Ashkan , Najafi Bijan
Published: December 2022

Improved life expectancy is increasing the number of older adults who suffer from motor-cognitive decline. Unfortunately, conventional balance exercise programs are not tailored to patients with cognitive impairments, and exercise adherence is often poor due to unsupervised settings. This study describes the acceptability and feasibility of a sensor-based in-home interactive exercise system, called tele-Exergame, used by older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia. Our tele-Exergame is specifically designed to improve balance and cognition during distractive conditioning while a telemedicine interface remotely supervises the exercise, and its exercises are gamified balance tasks with explicit augmented visual feedback. Fourteen adults with MCI or dementia (Age = 68.1 ± 5.4 years, 12 females) participated and completed exergame twice weekly for six weeks at their homes. Before and after 6 weeks, participants’ acceptance was assessed by Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) questionnaire, and participants’ cognition and anxiety level were evaluated by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), respectively. Results support acceptability, perceived benefits, and positive attitudes toward the use of the system. The findings of this study support the feasibility, acceptability, and potential benefit of tele-Exergame to preserve cognitive function among older adults with MCI and dementia.
Effects of a Diabetes Self-Management Education Program on Glucose Levels and Self-Care in Type 1 Diabetes: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Romero-Castillo Rocío , Pabón-Carrasco Manuel , Jiménez-Picón Nerea , Ponce-Blandón José Antonio
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: Several factors have been associated with the success of health education programs, such contact time, with better results being obtained from more intensive programs and early outcome measurement. Nurses play an essential role in educating patients with diabetes both in disease-management, therapeutic education, and healthy lifestyles promotion as well as emotion management. The objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of a nurse-led educational program based on patients with type 1 diabetes; (2) Methods: An experimental, two-group comparison design, 69 patients participated in the intervention group and 62 in control group. The control group received routine health education and follow-up. The intervention group received intensive educational program led by nurses. The effects were evaluated after 1 and 3 months of intervention; (3) Results: The differences between groups in sensor usage, knowledge, and diabetes self-care three months after the educational program were significant; (4) Conclusions: The program could help type 1 diabetes patients to improve the control rates for blood glucose. The continuous glucose monitoring sensor allowed knowing which parameters improved one and three months after the intervention. The hypothesis of the influence of the emotional state on glucose levels was confirmed.
Extraction, Purification, Characterization and Application in Livestock Wastewater of S Sulfur Convertase
Authors: Li Xintian , Zhai Wei , Duan Xinran , Gou Changlong , Li Min , Wang Lixia , Basang Wangdui , Zhu Yanbin , Gao Yunhang
Published: December 2022

Sulfide is a toxic pollutant in the farming environment. Microbial removal of sulfide always faces various biochemical challenges, and the application of enzymes for agricultural environmental remediation has promising prospects. In this study, a strain of Cellulosimicrobium sp. was isolated: numbered strain L1. Strain L1 can transform S2−, extracellular enzymes play a major role in this process. Next, the extracellular enzyme was purified, and the molecular weight of the purified sulfur convertase was about 70 kDa. The sulfur convertase is an oxidase with thermal and storage stability, and the inhibitor and organic solvent have little effect on its activity. In livestock wastewater, the sulfur convertase can completely remove S2−. In summary, this study developed a sulfur convertase and provides a basis for the application in environmental remediation.
Weight Stigma and Avoidance of Physical Activity and Sport: Development of a Scale and Establishment of Correlates
Authors: Bevan Nadia , O’Brien Kerry S. , Latner Janet D. , Lin Chung-Ying , Vandenberg Brian , Jeanes Ruth , Fung Xavier C. C.
Published: December 2022

Participation in sport and physical activity (PA) is declining, and the psychosocial factors underpinning avoidance of these activities are not understood. This study developed and tested a new measure assessing the tendency to avoid PA and sport because of weight stigma and appearance-related concerns. University students (n = 581, mean age = 19.8 years) completed an online survey at two time points. Demographic details and measures of weight stigmatization, appearance evaluations, and enjoyment and participation in PA or sport were taken. In addition, we developed and tested a new measure of the tendency to avoid physical activity and sport (TAPAS). Psychometric testing of the scale was conducted, and correlates of TAPAS were examined. The ten-item TAPAS provided a single factor solution, and the final scale score was predictive of lower levels of enjoyment of, and participation in, physical activity and sport (p < 0.001). The scale also displayed good internal and test-retest reliability. This study provides a new measure for assessing people’s tendency to avoid PA and sport because of weight stigma or appearance-related concerns. The results suggest that initiatives seeking to increase participation in PA and sport may need to address weight stigma and associated appearance related concerns.
Association between Pet Ownership and Threatened Abortion in Pregnant Women: The China Birth Cohort Study
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Yu Yunjiang , Yang Boyi , Huang Wenzhong , Zhang Yunting , Luo Yana , Bloom Michael S. , Qian Zhengmin , Arnold Lauren D. , Boyd Rienna , Wu Qingqing , Liu Ruixia , Dong Guanghui , Yin Chenghong ,   The China Birth Cohort Study (CBCS) Group
Published: December 2022

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the association between pet ownership and threatened abortion (TA) in pregnant Chinese women. Materials and Methods: We enrolled pregnant women from 18 provinces and autonomous regions across China between November 2017 and December 2020. Participants were grouped based on the presence or absence of pet ownership. Pet owners were further sub-grouped based on the presence or absence of close contact with their pets. Pet species included cats, dogs, and both. Generalised linear mixed models, with province as a random effect, were used to estimate the associations between pet ownership and TA. Results: Pet ownership, whether or not one had close contact with pets, was associated with greater odds of TA (OR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.21, 1.40). Keeping pet cats (OR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.11, 1.40), dogs (OR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.18, 1.41), or both cats and dogs (OR: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.04, 1.68) during pregnancy were all risk factors for TA. We observed significant group differences (p for difference < 0.05) in pre-pregnancy body mass index, education levels, and annual household income. Conclusions: Cat or dog ownership during pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of TA, especially among overweight, less educated, or lower-income participants.
Public Opinion Manipulation on Social Media: Social Network Analysis of Twitter Bots during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Weng Zixuan , Lin Aijun
Published: December 2022

Social media is not only an essential platform for the dissemination of public health-related information, but also an important channel for people to communicate during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, social bots can interfere with the social media topics that humans follow. We analyzed and visualized Twitter data during the prevalence of the Wuhan lab leak theory and discovered that 29% of the accounts participating in the discussion were social bots. We found evidence that social bots play an essential mediating role in communication networks. Although human accounts have a more direct influence on the information diffusion network, social bots have a more indirect influence. Unverified social bot accounts retweet more, and through multiple levels of diffusion, humans are vulnerable to messages manipulated by bots, driving the spread of unverified messages across social media. These findings show that limiting the use of social bots might be an effective method to minimize the spread of conspiracy theories and hate speech online.
Psychological and Mental Sequelae in Elite Athletes with Previous SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Systematic Review
Authors: Corona Valerio Flavio , Gualano Maria Rosaria , Rossi Maria Francesca , Valz Gris Angelica , Amantea Carlotta , Moscato Umberto , Ricciardi Walter
Published: December 2022

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many athletes from several sporting disciplines were infected with the SARS-CoV-2. The aim of this systematic review is to summarize the current scientific evidence on the psychological sequelae and mental health of elite athletes who have been infected by the virus. The review was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Statement; three databases were searched: PubMed, ISI Web of Knowledge, and Scopus. The initial search resulted in 2420 studies; after duplicate removal and screening by title and abstract, 41 articles were screened by full-text. A total of four eligible articles were included in the review. All included articles measured depression and anxiety in athletes who had suffered from COVID-19, while in three papers levels of stress were measured. Overall, the only two questionnaires used in more than one study were the DASS-21 and the APSQ. In our systematic review, we highlighted that mental and psychological health in elite athletes has the same importance as physical health. This statement suggests that these examinations should be introduced and performed during the competitive sports’ medical examinations conducted at the start of the sporting season, which currently consists only of the examination of physical parameters. Due to lack of studies on the topic, the results of our review show that mental health in athletes with a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection is an issue that requires more investigation, considering the evidence of clinical consequences. The importance of post-infection psychological sequelae is significant in assessing possible repercussions on the athletes’ sporting performance.
Eating Concerns Associated with Nutritional Information Obtained from Social Media among Saudi Young Females: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Al-Bisher Mona Mohammed , Al-Otaibi Hala Hazam
Published: December 2022

Eating disorders have been highly prevalent in young females for decades for many reasons. Social media platforms have an enormous impact on users, especially young adults, who use them every day. In Saudi Arabia, social media is popular, with an estimated 72% of users being active in 2020. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to assess the relationship between using social media to search for nutritional information and eating concerns. A nationwide study was conducted on 1092 young Saudi females aged 18–30 years from five administrative regions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using an online validated questionnaire, and symptoms of eating concerns were assessed using two brief instruments: SCOFF [Sick, Control, One Stone, Fat, Food] and Eating disorders Screen for Primary care [ESP]. The prevalence of eating concerns was 49.6% among Saudi females. Moderate eating concerns were more prevalent in the central region 24.8%, whereas high eating concerns were more prevalent in the southern region 27.6%. Personal accounts of dietitian/nutritionists (OR = 1.170; 95% CI 1.071–1.277; p ≤ 0.001), interaction with offered experiments about new meals/restaurants, and diets on social media that were mostly promoted by celebrities/influencers (OR = 1.554; 95% CI 1.402–1.723; p ≤ 0.000) were the most prominent risk factors associated with being more likely to suffer from eating concerns. The present study recommends opening clinics specializing in nutrition on social media platforms that target young females to provide nutritional counselling and encourage a healthy lifestyle. In addition, it is important to plan awareness campaigns intended to educate young females on how to deal with messages that circulate on social media without any evidence regarding their truthfulness.
Effects of Aerobic Training in Patients with Subacute COVID-19: A Randomized Controlled Feasibility Trial
Authors: Corna Stefano , Giardini Marica , Godi Marco , Bellotti Lucia , Arcolin Ilaria
Published: December 2022

Many clinical practice recommendations indicate rehabilitation as essential for patients with sequelae of severe or critical COVID-19 and suggest the prompt initiation of a multicomponent rehabilitation program focused on aerobic and endurance training. However, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) regarding aerobic exercise are lacking. Therefore, we aimed to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of the addition of aerobic training to standard rehabilitation in subjects with subacute COVID-19. Participants were 32/214 patients with the sequelae of severe or critical COVID-19 in the acute phase who were eligible and agreed to participate in the study (eligibility = 15%, recruitment = 100%). After randomization and assessment with functional and strength tests, all the participants underwent an inpatient-tailored rehabilitation program (50 min/day, 5 days/week, 10 sessions); in addition, the experimental group performed a low- to moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (30 min/day, 10 sessions). No dropouts or severe adverse events were reported, with an attendance rate of 95.6%. Most of the secondary outcomes significantly improved in both groups, but the improvement in the Functional Independence Measure and Cumulated Ambulation Score—Italian version was significantly greater in the experimental group (at least, p < 0.05). This RCT showed that aerobic exercise is feasible and safe in subacute COVID-19. Moreover, it appears to be beneficial and useful in improving patients’ independence and mobility.
Personal Stories of Young Women in Residential Care: Health-Promoting Strategies and Wellbeing
Authors: Marlow Mira Aurora , Sørly Rita , Kaatrakoski Heli Kyllikki
Published: December 2022

Interdisciplinary social work practice produces and circulates narratives of young women in residential care. The dominant narratives often present negative descriptions of this group, and less attention has been paid to their resistance to these “big stories”. This study’s aim is to illuminate this resistance of young women in residential care and to explore how they narrate their experiences of being children at risk who have become women managing everyday life. This study utilises a narrative approach and includes three selected personal stories: two from the participants and one from the first author’s reflections on resistance. Through contextual analysis at the macro, meso and micro levels, we focus on how personal stories can influence interdisciplinary social work services. We found resistance to dominant narratives on the different levels in the chosen stories. Resistance can create space to reconstruct and renarrate reality together and help understand the meaning and power of storytelling and silence. Participants’ resistance can be a tool to rebalance the power between social work practitioners and service users. Based on this analysis, we suggest that interdisciplinary collaborative social work should emphasise service users’ personal stories to a higher degree and, in this way, increase user participation in residential care.
Cardiovascular Risk Profiles and Pre-Existing Health Conditions of Trekkers in the Solu-Khumbu Region, Nepal
Authors: Haunolder Miriam , Apel Christian , Bertsch Daniela , Cerfontaine Carina , van der Giet Michael , van der Giet Simone , Grass Maren , Heussen Nicole Maria , Hundt Nina , Jäger Julia , Kühn Christian , Musiol Sonja , Timmermann Lisa , Wernitz Knut , Gieseler Ulf , Morrison Audry , Schöffl Volker , Küpper Thomas
Published: December 2022

Background: High-altitude tourist trekking continues to grow in popularity on the Everest Trek in Nepal. We examined which pre-existing cardiovascular and health conditions these global trekkers had and what health issues they encountered during the trek, be it exacerbations of pre-existing conditions, or new acute ones. Method: Trekkers (n = 350) were recruited from guesthouses along the Everest Trek, mostly at Tengboche (3860 m). After completing a questionnaire on their health and travel preparation, they underwent a basic physical examination with an interview. Results: Almost half (45%) had pre-existing conditions, mostly orthopaedic and cardiovascular diseases. The average age was 42.7 years (range 18–76). The average BMI was 23.4 kg/m2, but 21% were overweight. A third were smokers (30%), and 86% had at least one major cardiovascular risk factor. A quarter (25%) were suffering from manifest acute mountain sickness (AMS), and 72% had at least one symptom of AMS. Adequate pre-travel examination, consultation, and sufficient personal preparation were rarely found. In some cases, a distinct cardiovascular risk profile was assessed. Hypertensive patients showed moderately elevated blood pressure, and cholesterol levels were favourable in most cases. No cardiovascular emergencies were found, which was fortunate as timely, sufficient care was not available during the trek. Conclusion: The results of earlier studies in the Annapurna region should be revalidated. Every trekker to the Himalayas should consult a physician prior to departure, ideally a travel medicine specialist. Preventative measures and education on AMS warrant special attention. Travellers with heart disease or with a pronounced cardiovascular risk profile should be presented to an internal medicine professional. Travel plans must be adjusted individually, especially with respect to adequate acclimatisation time and no physical overloading. With these and other precautions, trekking at high altitudes is generally safe and possible, even with significant pre-existing health conditions. Trekking can lead to invaluable personal experiences. Since organized groups are limited in their flexibility to change their itinerary, individual trekking or guided tours in small groups should be preferred.
Association between Different Domains of Sedentary Behavior and Health-Related Quality of Life in Adults: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Scarabottolo Catarina Covolo , Tebar William Rodrigues , Araújo Guerra Paulo Henrique , Martins Clarice Maria de Lucena , Ferrari Gerson , Beretta Victor Spiandor , Christofaro Diego Giulliano Destro
Published: December 2022

Extended periods of time on screen devices and sitting are the main activities that characterize sedentary behavior (SB), which negatively impacts the quality of life. This negative influence was demonstrated mainly by cross-sectional studies performed in high-income countries in which the effects of screen time on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is not considered. Thus, we analyzed the association between the different domains of SB (i.e., subdomains of screen time—television, computer, cellphone) and the HRQoL in adults that live in Brazil during two years of follow-up. The sample included 331 adults. Subdomains of screen time (i.e., watching television, using computers, and cellphones) and of HRQoL (i.e., physical functioning, role-physical, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social functioning, role-emotional, mental health, and current health perception) were assessed by a structured questionnaire and SF-36, respectively. Our results indicate a significant increase in screen time during the two years of follow-up. Linear regression models indicated that although domains of SB were differently associated with HRQoL, in general, screen time was negatively associated with social functioning and positively associated with physical functioning during locomotion and activities of daily living (ADL), role-physical (i.e., physical issues during work and ADLs), and role-emotional (i.e., emotional issues during work and ADLs) after the two-year follow-up. In conclusion, screen time may positively or negatively influence some domains of HRQoL in adults.
Analysis of Pollution Characteristics and Sources in Surface Water in Typical Crop-Producing Areas of Qinghai Province
Authors: Chen Pengtao , Fu Furong , Li Jie , Wang Jingui , Sun Yang , Wang Ruigang , Zhao Lixia , Li Xiaojing
Published: December 2022

Currently used pesticides and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), nitrogen and phosphorus were analyzed in surface water from 26 sampling sites of agricultural areas in Qinghai Province to elucidate their pollution characteristics and sources. The results showed that most of these currently used pesticides, with the exception of chlorpyrifos, were generally not detected. However, two OCPs were commonly detected in surface water from four typical crop-producing areas. The residual concentrations of hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs) and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethanes (DDTs) measured 0~1.68 ng/L and 0.41~2.41 ng/L, respectively, in the water from the four crop-producing areas. The residues of these two OCPs pesticides were much lower than the standard limit of surface water environmental quality. The main forms of HCHs and DDTs were β-HCH and pp’-DDE, respectively, indicating that the residues of HCHs and DDTs in the surface water of the four crop-producing areas in Qinghai were mainly derived from historical drugs that had degraded for a long time. The average concentrations of TN, NO3−-N and NH4+-N in the surface water of 26 sampling sites of four typical crop areas in Qinghai Province were 2.95, 1.71 and 0.17 mg/L, respectively. According to the national surface water environmental quality standards, TN concentrations in 57.7% of these sampling sites exceeded the Class V water standards. The average concentration of NO3−-N was more than 70 times that of NH4+-N. Nonetheless, there were no significant differences in the concentrations of TN, NO3−-N and NH4+-N in the four crop-producing areas. The concentrations of NO3−-N and NO3−-N in the surface water were positively correlated with the TN concentration (p < 0.05), indicating that the sources of nitrogen in the surface water were relatively consistent. The average value of TP concentrations in the surface water from these sampling sites was 0.034 mg/L, with no significant differences among different producing areas. The N/P values in surface water from the four crop-producing areas of Qinghai Province had a range of 9.2~302. Phosphorus was the limiting factor for the proliferation of plankton in water. Reducing the input of phosphorus in these areas may be the key to preventing the deterioration of water quality. Significant negative and positive correlations exist between HCHs and nitrate nitrogen, and total phosphorus, respectively, which may be attributed to the proliferation of degrading microorganisms caused by the eutrophication of water. The research results will help to identify the characteristics and sources of surface water pollution in the crop-producing areas of Qinghai Province, and provide data support for Qinghai Province to build an export area for green organic agricultural and livestock products.
An Interdisciplinary Approach to Quantify the Human Disaster Risk Perception and Its Influence on the Population at Risk: A Case Study of Longchi Town, China
Authors: Wu Shengnan , Lei Yu , Jin Wen
Published: December 2022

Understanding disaster risk perception is vital for community-based disaster risk reduction (DRR). This study was set to investigate the correlations between disaster risk perception and the population at risk. To address this research question, the current study conducted an interdisciplinary approach: a household survey for measuring variables and constructed an Agent-based model for simulating the population at risk. Therefore, two correlations were defined, (1) between risk perception and willingness to evacuate, and (2) between willingness to evacuate and the population at risk. The willingness to evacuate was adopted as a mediator to determine the relationship between risk perception and the population at risk. The results show that the residents generally have a higher risk perception and willingness to evacuate because the study area frequently suffered from debris flow and flash floods. A positive correlation was found between risk perception and willingness to evacuate, and a negative correlation to the population at risk. However, a marginal effect was observed when raising public risk perception to reduce the number of the population at risk. This study provides an interdisciplinary approach to measuring disaster risk perception at the community level and helps policymakers select the most effective ways to reduce the population at risk.
Scientific Uncertainty of Marine Microplastic Pollution and the Dilemma of Future International Unified Legislation
Authors: Li Yingying
Published: December 2022

Several countries or regions have issued bans on microplastic pollution. This paper conducted a textual analysis on the provisions of the referenced countries or regions, and it was noticed that most of the existing bans only regulate and control microbeads instead of legal rules regarding all types of marine microplastic pollution. Existing international conventions can solve some of the problems of marine microplastic pollution, but they cannot solve all of them. Scientific uncertainty of marine microplastic pollution leads to the dilemma of future legislation. Specifically, based on the theory of legal norms, there are several issues faced by future international uniform legislation. The basic elements of legal rules are the hypothesis, disposition, and sanctions. At present, the scientific uncertainty of marine microplastic pollution cannot establish the three elements (hypothesis, disposition, and sanctions) of legal rules, so the existing bans in various countries can only target microbeads, and it is difficult to regulate other types of marine microplastic pollution. Consequently, we conclude that the time for comprehensive legislation on marine microplastics pollution is not yet ripe.
Bipolar Spectrum Symptoms in Patients with Fibromyalgia: A Dimensional Psychometric Evaluation of 120 Patients
Authors: Schweiger Vittorio , Perini Giovanni , Del Piccolo Lidia , Perlini Cinzia , Donisi Valeria , Gottin Leonardo , Martini Alvise , Donadello Katia , Del Balzo Giovanna , Moro Valentina , Secchettin Erica , Polati Enrico
Published: December 2022

Background: Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) is characterized by chronic widespread pain, fatigue, unrefreshing sleep and cognitive dysfunction. Depressive and manic symptoms are often reported in FMS patients’ history. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of bipolar spectrum symptoms (BSS) and to correlate these with quality of life (QoL) scores and antidepressant treatment. Methods: From October 2017 to July 2018, a battery of QoL questionnaires (FIQ, PSQI and SF-12) was administered to 120 FMS patients after a clinical examination. The MOODS-SR lifetime questionnaire was then remotely administered to the patients included in the study. Results: The presence of depressive and manic lifetime symptoms was found, in line with the results of the available literature. A correlation was found between the history of depressive symptoms and the severity of FIQ and SF-12 scores. Despite a low statistical strength, a trend toward a correlation between a history of manic symptoms and SNRI treatment was detected. Conclusions: The correlation between the MOOD—depressive domains and poor QoL is in line with the available literature. Further studies are needed to corroborate these findings and to elucidate the relationship between manic symptoms and SNRI treatment.
Motives and Barriers Affecting the Participation of Polish People in the Physical Activity of Nordic Walking
Authors: Soroka Andrzej , Godlewska Agnieszka , Mazurek-Kusiak Anna
Published: December 2022

The aim of the study was to identify motives and barriers which have the greatest influence on participation in Nordic Walking (NW) of people with normal body weight and persons who are either overweight or obese (according to their BMI). In the study, the modified Physical Activity and Leisure Motivation Scale (PALMS) was used, which was designed to measure adult physical activity (PA) motivation. PALMS measures eight motives for participation in PA, on a 5-point Likert scale. The study was conducted during a NW competition and during training sessions of its participants. Two groups of respondents were taken into account: the first group with those with normal body weight and the second group with those who were overweight or obese. Respondents with normal body weight were more frequent participants of NW sessions. Enhanced body capacity, concern for one’s health, improved body shape and lifespan extension were major motives of practicing NW. Polish people perceive PA as a means of improving the quality of life due to enhanced health and wellbeing. Subjects with normal body weight tended to mention lack of areas suitable for NW and lack of time due to professional work. Overweight or obese persons pointed to other types of PA, shyness and lack of time.
Paediatric Cutaneous Warts and Verrucae: An Update
Authors: Bristow Ivan
Published: December 2022

Cutaneous warts are common lesions in children caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and for most lesions spontaneously resolve within months of the initial infection, regardless of treatment. The infection is most prevalent in the second decade of life affecting over 40% of children. Studies have demonstrated wart virus carriage on normal skin is higher in children with active lesions and family members. Subtypes HPV 2, HPV 27, HPV 57 and HPV 63 are particularly common in paediatric populations. Warts arising on the plantar surface of the foot (verrucae) can be particularly problematic owing to the location. They may interfere with daily activities causing pain and embarrassment. Plantar lesions have been shown to be more resistant to treatment than warts elsewhere on the skin. Systematic reviews and studies conducted over the last decade have demonstrated little evidence of innovation or effective improvements in treatment of recalcitrant lesions over the last 30 years. However, newer modalities such as immunotherapy (using injected vaccines) and hyperthermia using microwave treatment may hold promise in improving the treatment of these common and therapeutically frustrating lesions.
The Association between Internet Use and Physical Exercise among Middle-Aged and Older Adults—Evidence from China
Authors: Guo Bin , Zhang Xiaodong , Zhang Rui , Chen Gong
Published: December 2022

Background: In an aging and digital society, Internet use is significantly associated with residents’ physical exercise. This study aimed to explore the association between Internet use and physical exercise among Chinese middle-aged and older adults in two respects: Internet use and the purpose of Internet use. Methods: The data used in this study were obtained from the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) conducted by Peking University. The logit model and the ordered probit model were used to analyze the association between Internet use and physical exercise, and the substitution variable method was used to examine the robustness of the results. Results: (1) Internet use and the frequency of Internet use significantly increased the probability and frequency of middle-aged and older adults’ participation in physical exercise (p < 0.001). (2) “Watching news”, “chatting” and “watching videos” via the Internet were positively associated with physical exercise, while “playing games” had no impact. (3) Internet use had a greater impact on physical exercise participation among middle-aged adults and those living in urban areas than among older adults and those living in rural areas. Conclusions: This study suggests that Internet use among middle-aged and older adults is positively associated with their participation in physical exercise; the government should try to increase the popularity of Internet use to encourage their participation in physical exercise.
The Factors and Relationships Influencing Forest Hiking Exercise Characteristics after COVID-19 Occurrence: At Seoul Metropolitan Area and in Hikers’ 20s and 30s
Authors: Lee Bobae , Yeon Poungsik , Park Seoncheol
Published: December 2022

The growing interest and usage of green space during the pandemic relates to why greenery increases enjoyment of daily life and alleviates troubles arising from infectious periods. However, it is necessary to understand what reactions to the degree of COVID-19’s spread were expressed in hiking exercise characteristics (hiking frequency, actual movement distance, average speed, total exercise time). To understand the progress of forest usage behavior during the pandemic, we analyzed factors influencing hiking exercise characteristics and relationships between those factors and hiking exercise characteristics. Hiking record data were obtained (2019–2020) from the workout app “Tranggle” pertaining to hikers in their 20s and 30s who visited the 13 mountains in the Seoul Metropolitan Area most frequently. The differences in hiking exercise characteristics (2019 data subtracted from 2020) were linked with factor data that could be related to them, including the degree of COVID-19’s spread (Rt). To explore relationships between hiking exercise characteristics and factors, we developed four models with a linear mixed model. We found that Rt, week, weekdays/weekends, and PM10 contributed to explaining the hiking exercise characteristics’ differences. As a result of this analysis, the degree of COVID-19’s spread (Rt) affected hiking frequency; the week affected hiking frequency and actual movement distance; weekdays or weekends affected hiking frequency, actual movement distance, average speed, and total exercise time; and PM10 affected hiking frequency. These findings indicate that hiking was an alternative way for those looking for a new strategy to replace lost opportunities for physical activity. Therefore, we conclude that it is necessary to induce the usage of green space so that many people can take advantage of the functions and benefits of greenery, which stood out during the pandemic era.
Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) Implementation in Japan: A Comparison with the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Sweden, and Taiwan
Authors: Takahashi Mayo , Linh Le Khac , M. Sayed Ahmad , Imoto Atsuko , Sato Miho , Dila Kadek Agus Surya , Huy Nguyen Tien , Moji Kazuhiko
Published: December 2022

Introduction: The Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) guideline was issued and applied in 2013 by the Japanese Medical Association. Since being issued, the NIPT practice in Japan still has some problems related to indication, access, cost coverage and uniformity. Therefore, our study aimed to identify the Japanese challenges of adopting NIPT into prenatal diagnosis by comparing the system and process with other countries. Method: The United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Sweden, and Taiwan were purposefully selected for comparison. All the countries, including Japan, introduced NIPT. The literature and information searches were conducted using PubMed, SCOPUS, Google Scholar, CiNii and Google searching engine. Results: The process of NIPT in Japan was very different from the other countries. Japan is the only country that indicated NIPT for only pregnant women over 35 years old in certificated facilities and did not have a policy regarding providing information on prenatal screening and NIPT to all women. Japan also did not have a policy regarding abortion due to fetal abnormalities. The practice of NIPT guidelines is different between non-certified and certified facilities. NIPT fee was the highest in Japan and was not covered by insurance. Conclusion: Pregnant women in Japan suffered from disparities in information access, economic burden, geographic location, and practice of NIPT guidelines between the certified and the non-certified facilities. Pregnant women-centered prenatal diagnosis policy, including NIPT, should be established in Japan by learning cases from other countries.
The Impact of Coronavirus Infection on Health-Related Quality of Life in Amateur CrossFit Athletes
Authors: Szajkowski Sebastian , Pasek Jarosław , Dwornik Michał , Cieślar Grzegorz
Published: December 2022

Background: The aim of this study was to assess how the disease, developing over the course of coronavirus infection, affects the quality of life of athletes practicing amateur sports who are not burdened with comorbidities. Methods: The study included 102 amateur CrossFit athletes (54 (53%) women and 48 (47%) men) who had been infected with SARS-CoV-2, but were not hospitalized. The training experience of the respondents ranged from 1.5 to 15 years (average: 6.7 ± 3.8 years). The quality of life was assessed with EQ-5D-5L and Clinical COPD Questionnaire (CCQ), which was used to assess the quality of life specific to the respiratory system, and the severity of dyspnea was assessed using the MRC questionnaire. Results: The training experience did not differ statistically significantly between men and women (p = 0.595). The quality of life in men according EQ-5D-5L was statistically significantly higher than in the case of women (0.979 ± 0.028 vs. 0.942 ± 0.073 (p < 0.001), respectively), and in EQ-VAS it was significantly higher in men than in women (85.64 ± 10.4 vs. 72.5 ± 19.36 points (p < 0.001)). The assessment of dyspnea by means of mMRC showed its higher intensity in women than in men. The differences were not statistically significant (p = 0.195). In men, a significantly lower result of the quality of life was noted in the CCQ questionnaire: 0.71 ± 0.57 vs. 1.14 ± 0.84 points (p = 0.009). Conclusions: The HRQOL, which surveyed amateur CrossFit after COVID-19, was higher in men than in women. People practicing strength- and strength-endurance-based sports rated their quality of life as the highest. Most of the subjects observed a slight intensification of dyspnea. The findings can be used for future healthcare measures to be applied in the population of CrossFit athletes.
Identifying Risk Factors for Hospitalization with Behavioral Health Disorders and Concurrent Temperature-Related Illness in New York State
Authors: Aydin-Ghormoz Heather , Adeyeye Temilayo , Muscatiello Neil , Nayak Seema , Savadatti Sanghamitra , Insaf Tabassum Z.
Published: December 2022

Extreme temperature events are linked to increased emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and mortality for individuals with behavioral health disorders (BHD). This study aims to characterize risk factors for concurrent temperature-related illness among BHD hospitalizations in New York State. Using data from the NYS Statewide and Planning Research and Cooperative System between 2005–2019, multivariate log binomial regression models were used in a population of BHD hospitalizations to estimate risk ratios (RR) for a concurrent heat-related (HRI) or cold-related illness (CRI). Dementia (RR 1.65; 95% CI:1.49, 1.83) and schizophrenia (RR 1.38; 95% CI:1.19, 1.60) were associated with an increased risk for HRI among BHD hospitalizations, while alcohol dependence (RR 2.10; 95% CI:1.99, 2.22), dementia (RR 1.52; 95% CI:1.44, 1.60), schizophrenia (RR 1.41; 95% CI:1.31, 1.52), and non-dependent drug/alcohol use (RR 1.20; 95% CI:1.15, 1.26) were associated with an increased risk of CRI among BHD hospitalizations. Risk factors for concurrent HRI among BHD hospitalizations include increasing age, male gender, non-Hispanic Black race, and medium hospital size. Risk factors for concurrent CRI among BHD hospitalizations include increasing age, male gender, non-Hispanic Black race, insurance payor, the presence of respiratory disease, and rural hospital location. This study adds to the literature by identifying dementia, schizophrenia, substance-use disorders, including alcohol dependence and non-dependent substance-use, and other sociodemographic factors as risk factors for a concurrent CRI in BHD hospitalizations.
Gender Differences in Unhealthy Lifestyle Behaviors among Adults with Diabetes in the United States between 1999 and 2018
Authors: Wang Yu , Cao Peihua , Liu Fengyao , Chen Yilin , Xie Jingyu , Bai Bingqing , Liu Quanjun , Ma Huan , Geng Qingshan
Published: December 2022

Lifestyle management is important to patients with diabetes, but whether gender differences exist in lifestyle management is unclear. Data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 1999 to 2018) was used for this research. Gender differences were evaluated descriptively and using an odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). A total of 8412 participants (48% women) were finally included. Across these surveys, the incidences of poor diet (OR: 1.26 (95% CI, 1.12, 1.43)), smoking (1.58 (1.35, 1.84)), alcohol consumption (1.94 (1.68, 2.25)) and sedentary behavior (1.20 (1.04, 1.39)) were more common in men, while depression (0.47 (0.37, 0.59)), obesity (0.69 (0.61, 0.78)) and insufficient physical activity (0.56 (0.49, 0.65)) were more common in women. Reductions in poor diet were greater in men between 1999 and 2000 and 2017 and 2018 (p = 0.037), while the mean body mass index (BMI) levels (p = 0.019) increased more among women. Furthermore, several gender differences were found to be related to age, race/ethnicity and marital/insurance/employment statuses. Our research found gender differences in diabetes-related unhealthy lifestyle behaviors and provides reference data for implementing measures to reduce the gender differences. Further work to reduce gender-specific barriers to a healthy lifestyle is warranted in order to further improve diabetes management.
Mapping the Scientific Research on Suicide and Physical Activity: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Denche-Zamorano Ángel , Pereira-Payo Damián , Franco-García Juan Manuel , Pastor-Cisneros Raquel , Salazar-Sepúlveda Guido , Castillo Dante , Marín-Gil Miseldra , Barrios-Fernandez Sabina
Published: December 2022

This research provides an overview of the current state of scientific literature related to suicide and physical activity (PA). A bibliometric analysis of studies published between 1996 and 2022 in The Web of Science (WoS) was carried out, applying the traditional bibliometric laws, using Microsoft Excel and the VOSviewer software for data and metadata processing. A total of 368 documents (349 primary research and 19 reviews) were extracted from 70 WoS categories. The results revealed an exponential increase in scientific production from 2017 to 2022 (R2 = 88%), revealing the United States hegemony being the most productive country, with 156 of the publications (42.4%), the most cited (4181 citations) being the centre of a collaborative network with links to 35 countries and having April Smith, from the Miami University, as the most prolific author (eight publications) and Thomas Joiner, from the Florida State University, as the most cited author (513 citations). The Psychiatry WoS category, with 155 papers, had the highest number of publications, and The Journal of Affective Disorders, from Elsevier, had the highest number of published papers within this category.
Osteoarthritis as an Umbrella Term for Different Subsets of Humans Undergoing Joint Degeneration: The Need to Address the Differences to Develop Effective Conservative Treatments and Prevention Strategies
Authors: Hart David A.
Published: December 2022

Osteoarthritis (OA) of joints such as the knee and hip are very prevalent, and the number of individuals affected is expected to continue to rise. Currently, conservative treatments after OA diagnosis consist of a series of increasingly invasive interventions as the degeneration and pain increase, leading very often to joint replacement surgery. Most interventions are focused on alleviating pain, and there are no interventions currently available that stop and reverse OA-associated joint damage. For many decades OA was considered a disease of cartilage, but it is now considered a disease of the whole multi-tissue joint. As pain is the usual presenting symptom, for most patients, it is not known when the disease process was initiated and what the basis was for the initiation. The exception is post-traumatic OA which results from an overt injury to the joint that elevates the risk for OA development. This scenario leads to very long wait lists for joint replacement surgery in many jurisdictions. One aspect of why progress has been so slow in addressing the needs of patients is that OA has been used as an umbrella term that does not recognize that joint degeneration may arise from a variety of mechanistic causes that likely need separate analysis to identify interventions unique to each subtype (post-traumatic, metabolic, post-menopausal, growth and maturation associated). A second aspect of the slow pace of progress is that the bulk of research in the area is focused on post-traumatic OA (PTOA) in preclinical models that likely are not clearly relevant to human OA. That is, only ~12% of human OA is due to PTOA, but the bulk of studies investigate PTOA in rodents. Thus, much of the research community is failing the patient population affected by OA. A third aspect is that conservative treatment platforms are not specific to each OA subset, nor are they integrated into a coherent fashion for most patients. This review will discuss the literature relevant to the issues mentioned above and propose some of the directions that will be required going forward to enhance the impact of the research enterprise to affect patient outcomes.