Effects of a Forest Walk on Urinary Dityrosine and Hexanoyl-Lysine in Young People: A Pilot Study.

This study set out to understand the dynamics of human thermal sensation and perception associated with outdoor thermal variability in urban contexts. Previous studies found that compact urban forms and green features can contribute to urban climate diversity, and conjectured whether the wax and wane of thermal stress can promote thermal satisfaction in outdoor public spaces. Hence, a stop-and-go method has been developed to accurately capture thermal transitions along urban walks and to provide snapshots of the momentary body thermal sensation and subjective thermal perception. The measurement campaigns carried in late summer involved a total of 40 participants walking for 70 min through two waterfront districts in Rome, Italy. Our findings indicate that: (1) the oscillation of air temperature along the dense urban walk (R2=0.74) is nearly twice as frequent as that along the sparse suburban walk (R2=0.23), due to the microclimatic diversity shaped by the compact urban fabrics, pocket parks and tree-lined river banks; (2) the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) contrast can effectively predict thermal alliesthesia (R2=0.34) measured by the rate of change of mean skin temperature (d(Tmskin)/dt < 0.012°C∙min−1); (3) subjective perception shows a significant trend but a poorer model fit (R2<0.25) predicted by UTCI and Tmskin; (4) two confounders, view and social backgrounds, are proved to affect the regression model between the objective and subjective data. The conclusions emphasise the importance of incorporating spatial and social contexts into the investigation of outdoor thermal comfort via physiological and psychological approaches.

It is not all bad for the grey city – A crossover study on physiological and psychological restoration in a forest and an urban environment

Papillomavirus (HPV) DNA load evaluation in urine and cervical samples

Obtaining Reliable Evidence on the Determinants of NCDs in the UAE: The Abu Dhabi Cohort Study

The percentages of women enrolled in higher education in the STEM sector are significantly lower than those of men. Overall, gender representation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics degrees in Europe is not balanced. The Leaky Pipeline phenomenon, marked by gender stereotypes, makes the latent gender gap a relevant topic of study. Studies exist on academic performance, self-perception, self-efficacy, outcome expectations; however, studying gender stereotypes linked to STEM studies is also essential. It is necessary to know the social and family context in which young people have grown up, as well as their perception of such studies. To study gender stereotypes of university students about STEM studies, a questionnaire has been designed for empirical validation. For the design of the instrument, to be validated, items from other instruments have been taken and adapted to Spanish. After the design of the instrument, an online pilot study has been applied in the University of Salamanca, the University of Valencia and the Polytechnic University of Valencia. A total of 115 people answered the questionnaire. The results of the pilot study reveal that the study sample is not particularly marked by gender stereotypes about gender equality in STEM. Also, the sample is receptive to learning about science and applying it in their lives. On the other hand, the idea that women have to give up their studies and careers to look after their families and children is rejected. The idea that men are more interested in university studies than women is also rejected. At the same time, the sample is aware of the difficulties that women encounter in the STEM sector. Another optimistic point of the results is that there are no alarming data on bad experiences due to gender. In the future, the study will be replicated on a larger scale.

Hyperglycemia causes the autoxidation of glucose, glycation of proteins, and the activation of polyol metabolism. These changes accelerate generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and increases in oxidative chemical modification of lipids, DNA, and proteins in various tissues. Oxidative stress may play an important role in the development of complications in diabetes such as lens cataracts, nephropathy, and neuropathy. Glycation reactions, especially Maillard reactions, occur in vivo as well as in vitro and are associated with the chronic complications of diabetes mellitus and aging and age-related diseases by increases in oxidative chemical modification of lipids, DNA, and proteins. In particular, long-lived proteins such as lens crystallines, collagens, and hemoglobin may react with reducing sugars to form advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Recently, we found a novel type of AGE, named MRX, and we found that MRX is a good biomarker for detecting oxidative stress produced during Maillard reaction. We also examined in detail the role of lipid peroxidation reaction in hyperglycemia and found that hexanoyl modification formed by the reaction of oxidized lipids and proteins must be important for oxidative stress. Detailed analyses of the formation mechanism of hexanoyl lysine (HEL) moiety in proteins were conducted, and excretion of HEL into urine was quantified by using LC/MS/MS. Macrophages and neutrophils play an important role in oxidative stress during hyperglycemia, and we determined that oxidatively modified tyrosines are a good biomarker for formation of oxidative stress at an early stage. Immunochemical analyses by application of monoclonal antibodies specific to lipid hydroperoxide-modified proteins produced by polyunsaturated fatty acids including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in oxidative stress caused by hyperglycemia were conducted, and the relationship between glycation and lipid peroxidation reactions both by chemical and immunochemical approaches are discussed. Recently, we put much more focus on dietary antioxidants for prevention of diabetic complications. Curcuminoids, the main yellow pigments in Curcuma longa (turmeric), have been used widely and for a long time in the treatment of sprain and inflammation in indigenous medicine. Curcumin is the main component of turmeric, and two minor components are also present as the curcuminoids. Curcuminoids possess antioxidant activity. Protective effects of curcumin (U1) and one of its major metabolites, tetrahydrocurcumin (THU1), have been examined for development of diabetic cataract in 25% galactose-fed SD rats. Through detailed examination of protective mechanisms of THU1, it was found that THU1 showed that scavenger ROS not only formed during hyperglycemia, but also induced antioxidative enzymes including detoxification enzymes such as glutathine S-transferase. THU1 also showed significant increase of glutathione concentration in the cultured rat lens. Glutathione (gamma-glutamylcysteinyl glycine [GSH]) is thought to be an important factor in cellular function and defense against oxidative stress, and we found that dietary GSH suppresses oxidative stress in vivo in prevention of diabetic complications such as diabetic nephropathy and neuropathy.

The aim of this study was to determine whether consumption of sweetened dried cranberries elicits urinary anti-adherence properties against Escherichia coli as previously demonstrated with cranberry juice and/or sweetened cranberry juice cocktail, compared to unsweetened raisins. Uropathogenic E. coli isolates were obtained from five women with culture-confirmed urinary tract infections (UTIs). Four urine samples were collected from each subject. The first urine sample was collected before any study intervention. The second urine sample was collected 2-5 hours after consumption of one box (42.5 g) of raisins. The third urine sample was collected 5-7 days later. The final urine sample was collected 2-5 hours after consumption of approximately 42.5 g of dried cranberries. E. coli isolates were incubated separately in each of the four urine samples collected from the five subjects. Bacteria were harvested from the urine and tested for the ability to prevent adhesion of P-fimbriated E. coli bacteria using a mannose-resistant hemagglutination assay with human red blood cells (A1, Rh+). Of the urine samples collected after dried cranberry consumption, one demonstrated 50% antiadherence activity, two demonstrated 25% activity, and two did not show any increased activity. None of the control urine samples and none of the postraisin consumption samples demonstrated any inhibitory activity. Data from this pilot study on only five subjects suggest that consumption of a single serving of sweetened dried cranberries may elicit bacterial antiadhesion activity in human urine, whereas consumption of a single serving of raisins does not. Further studies are needed to verify the antiadhesion effect of sweetened dried cranberries. In addition, dose-response and pharmacokinetics of the active compounds in the dried cranberries need to be determined. If clinical research is positive, dried cranberries could potentially be a viable alternative to cranberry juice consumption for prevention of UTIs.

BackgroundDespite the widespread recognition of the importance of mental health in young people, only a small proportion of young people with a mental disorder, including university students, receive mental health care.ObjectiveWe developed a smartphone application (Mental App) for the university students and examined the effects of the app on their mental health.MethodsThe app was designed according to a questionnaire survey conducted before this study. The Mental App was installed on the students’ smartphone and the psychological tests (the Link Stigma Scale, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, and the 12-item General Health Questionnaire) were performed on the same day. After using the App for two weeks, the students completed a questionnaire survey and underwent the same psychological tests. We compared the results between the app user and non-user group.ResultsA total of 68 students participated, of which 57 students completed the study (app user group, n = 28; control group, n = 29). The mean number of days spent using the app was 5.66 ± 3.16 (mean ± SD). The mean total screen time of the app was 9:03 ± 06:41(min:sec). The mean number of total actions (screen taps or swipes) was 161.91 ± 107.34. There were no significant between-group differences in the ΔLink Stigma Scale score (-0.11 ± 4.28 vs. -0.59 ± 3.30, p = 0.496) or the ΔCenter for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale score (-4.39 ± 7.13 vs. -2.07 ± 8.78, p = 0.143). There was a significant between-group difference in the ΔGeneral Health Questionnaire score (-2.21± 2.23 vs. -0.17 ± 2.69, p = 0.007).ConclusionsThis non-randomized controlled pilot study indicates that the app we developed, may provide effective mental health care for university students, even in the short-term.Trial registration: UMIN000040332

<h3>Introduction</h3> Resident colonic bacteria (anaerobes and firmicutes) ferment undigested fibre. The balance between their large species number is influenced by the host genetic make up. An individuals “fermentation profile” (FP) is therefore likely to comprise a stable “personal signature” and a variable portion, which is influenced by the gut environment—diet and to a lesser extent drugs, thus offering an insight into colonic microbial health. A method of monitoring FP is by analysing the gaseous release that emanates off a patient9s urine or faecal sample. This can then be characterised using various techniques, but two options are: Artificial olfaction (the so called electronic nose or e-nose), which offers a method to rapidly identify disease groups based on the a complete “bio-odorant signature”; Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry, which seeks to identify all the chemical components within a sample. <h3>Aim</h3> Pilot study using an “e-nose” to determine if disease groups can be distinguished and identified from faeces and urine samples. <h3>Methods</h3> Subjects and patients: two healthy (normal) volunteers; Ulcerative Colitis (n=1; active disease induced into remission), Crohns Disease (n=1). Biological samples of faeces and urine were collected and urine samples were analysed. Samples were prepared in universal containers (10 ml) and heated to 38±0.1°C. The headspace (the air above the sample) was then analysed using a Cyrano A320 (Smith Detection) e-nose, employing 32 carbon black compositae chemoresistive chemical sensors. These instruments employ a series of sensors with overlapping sensitivity, thus creating a “fingerprint” of the total chemical composition of a sample (as with the human nose). Each headspace was sampled for 30 s, and purged for a further 30 s in laboratory air. The differential response between the sample and the background air was used for analysis. <h3>Results</h3> The PCA plot generated (not shown; high resolution) demonstrates the e-nose9s capability to distinguish between disease groups with &gt;90% selectivity. Specifically there was polarity between UC and CD subjects and importantly, shifting of profile in the UC subject with treatment towards a normal configuration. <h3>Conclusion</h3> 1. The e-nose offers a rapid and promising way of investigating FPs in health and disease. 2. Clear differences in gaseous profile between volunteers and disease subjects were demonstrated. 3. The gaseous profile changes with treatment. The study of FPs using e-nose is novel and offers a new insight into “scenting” gut health.

To determine the incidence and causes of false-positive pregnancy tests in patients with enterocystoplasties. Patients and methods In a pilot study, 15 consecutive patients (both sexes, with any type of urinary diversion) provided a urine sample for testing using the Clearview pregnancy test (Unipath Ltd, Bedford, England). False-positive results occurred only in patients with continent reservoirs; patients with ileal conduits produced no false-positive results and were excluded from the main study. The main study included 23 patients with a urinary reservoir constructed partly or solely of large bowel or ileum, who provided urine and blood samples for the assay of beta human chorionic gonadotrophin and protein. Each urine sample was also analysed with the Clearview test. In the pilot study, three men and two women had positive pregnancy test results. In the main study, 14 patients had a positive Clearview test (nine women and five men). One women was found to be pregnant and was therefore excluded from further analysis, giving a false-positive rate of 57%. There was no difference in the type of reservoir, urine biochemistry and urine analysis results between the positive and negative groups. Frozen/thawed samples all tested negatively. Conclusion It is possible that the mucus produced in enterocystoplasties may be interfering with the pregnancy test. Patients should be aware of this and not rely on commercial test kits. There is some potential that this test system could be adapted for measuring mucus production in urinary diversions.

The increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in young people is a public health concern. Among those in university and out of school, different contextual factors contribute to their risky sexual behavior and increased susceptibility to STIs and HIV. There are limited comparative studies examining risky sexual behavior and partner notification (PN) between these two groups, particularly in South Africa. We investigated sexual behaviors, self-reported STI diagnosis, health seeking behavior, and preferred PN methods of university students and out of school youth. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was used using convenient sampling to select 917 students across five health sciences universities and through periodic sampling 699 out of school youth were selected from two main local shopping centers in South Africa. Descriptive statistics, bivariate and multivariable logistic analysis were performed using Stata IC version 14. More university students (71.7%) than out of school youth were in casual relationships (28.3%), with half of out of school youth being in steady relations (50.2%). Moreover, university students (65.7%) used a condom in the past 6 months compared to their counterparts (34.3%). Of the 124 youth who were diagnosed with STI in the past 12 months, majority (n = 106, 85%) were out of school youth. The probability of notifying a partner about a STI infection was 82% among university students compared to their counterparts (p = >0.05). The odds of notifying a partner was 1.79 times more for those having multiple sexual partners than those who had only one partner. Both groups preferred a face-to-face STI disclosure with partner; however, more university students (67%) preferred SMS notification than PN referral slips as compared to out of school youth (42%). Both the university students and the out of school youth engaged in risky sexual behaviors. Both groups preferred face-to-face and clinic SMS partner notifications, even though university students were in the majority. There is a need for developing health promotion scripts on disclosing STIs to sexual partners to empower the majority of the youth who prefer face-to-face PN over the prescribed methods.

&#x0D; For many years in Lithuania the rate of suicide mortality has been remarkable in magnitude, especially in the young population. Social and public health determinants, risk behaviour issues, prevention and control of suicide in teenagers and young people needs urgent attention.&#x0D; The aim of the study was to investigate the self-reported perception of young people - the university students concerning suicide, the myths and reality on this phenomenon, and the links between suicidal behaviour and endorsement of myths about suicide. The self-reported survey was conducted in the university settings. The results of the survey showed that young people lack knowledge about the phenomenon of suicide and suicidal behaviour, and they still believe myths about suicide. The study revealed that one-fifth of young people had suicidal thoughts, and boys along with urban residents and suicidal family were at higher risk. Half of the students surveyed self-reported suicidal peers in their environment. Young people lack knowledge on suicide prevention, and preventive events. The study revealed that raising awareness, obtaining knowledge, and providing information to young people on the phenomenon of suicide, suicidal behaviour, and warning signs of possible attempt and suicide risk are the priority issues. Suicide prevention activities on individual, community, local and national levels need to be addressed.&#x0D;

Depression is commonly observed in university students, who are a high risk group for developing psychiatric disorders during adulthood. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression and its traditional Chinese medicine body constitutions and psychological determinants among university students in Malaysia. A cross-sectional pilot study was conducted between 9 and 28 September 2020 among 80 university students in Malaysia. Participants completed online survey questionnaires, including the validated Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Constitution in Chinese Medicine Questionnaire (CMCQ), Dysfunctional Attitude Scale (DAS), Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) stress subscale, Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), which assess depression, body constitution, dysfunctional attitude, stress, perceived stress, and self-esteem. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to determine the associated risk factors for depression. The overall prevalence of depression among university students was 33.8%. The multiple regression analysis showed a significant relationship between depression and qi-stagnation constitution (B = 0.089, p = 0.011), balanced constitution (B = −0.077, p = 0.049), and self-esteem (B = −0.325, p = 0.001). Our findings suggest that some traditional Chinese medicine body constitutions and self-esteem are significant risk factors affecting depression among university students. Identifying risk factors of depression is vital to aid in the early detection of depression among university students.

Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders and being an increasing concern in university students who have an increased risk of psychiatric disorders during adulthood. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression and its associated risk factors among university students in Malaysia. A cross sectional pilot study was conducted between 9th and 28th September 2020 among 80 university students in Malaysia. Participants completed online survey questionnaires, including the validated Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Constitution in Chinese Medicine Questionnaire (CMCQ), Dysfunctional Attitude Scale (DAS), Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) that assess depression, body constitution, cognitive bias, stress, perceived stress and self-esteem respectively. Socio-demographic data and health status were also recorded. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to determine the associated risk factors for depression. The overall prevalence of depression among university students was 33.8%, with a greater prevalence among females (26.3%) than males (7.5%). The multiple regression analysis showed a significant positive relationship between depression and qi stagnation constitution (B = 0.089, p = 0.011). Additionally, significant negative relationships were found between depression with balanced constitution (B = -0.077, p = 0.049) and self-esteem (B = -0.325, p = 0.001) respectively. Our findings suggest that traditional Chinese medicine body constitution and self-esteem are significant risk factors affecting the depression among university students, although more studies with larger sample size are needed to confirm this. The identification of risk factors of depression is vital to aid in early detection of depression among university students.

Studies have explored the use of the Internet for health information, but few have focused on the young adult population, a population that is known to have difficulties in accessing mainstream health services. It has been acknowledged that young people are active users of the Internet, and this mode of health service delivery warrants further exploration. This study aimed to determine university students' online habits and their use of the Internet for health information using a quantitative descriptive design. Data were collected from 922 university students in Ireland, aged between 18 and 24 years. The findings indicated that university students are active users of the Internet and of social networking sites, particularly for communication purposes. It was also found that 66.1% of participants had used the Internet to search for health information, for a variety of reasons, including information on specific illnesses, sexual health, and fitness and nutrition. It is concluded that the use of the Internet to communicate with young people in relation to their health needs to be explored.