Background: In the global burden of non-communicable diseases, the top slot among them all is occupied by various cardiovascular diseases (CVD), which also claim primacy in mortality rates. Generally speaking, the pat...Background: In the global burden of non-communicable diseases, the top slot among them all is occupied by various cardiovascular diseases (CVD), which also claim primacy in mortality rates. Generally speaking, the pathophysiological pathway frequently involves either (or a combination of) elevated serum cholesterol levels, predominantly attributed to dietary patterns characterized by extremely high levels of saturated and trans-fat consumption. Day-to-day nutritional epidemiology among university students suggests that they represent a crucial demographic for the study of preventive interventions. Objective: This in-depth study and investigation were specifically aimed to quantitatively assess and compare prevailing patterns of dietary fat consumption between female students enrolled in health sciences and non-health sciences programs at major universities in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was comprised of 434 Saudi female university students (age range: 18 - 25 years), utilizing a validated Block Dietary Fat Screener accompanied by anthropometric measurements and comprehensive demographic data collection. The sampling methodology consisted of a snowball technique that was spread across three major academic institutions in Riyadh. Results: Statistical analysis revealed a significant association between academic specialization and patterns of dietary fat consumption (p = 0.012). Paradoxically, students of health science exhibited a higher prevalence of very high fat intake (41.9%) compared with their non-health sciences counterparts (27.6%). Surprisingly, anthropometric stratification revealed that it was the underweight students who demonstrated very high levels of fat consumption. A notable socioeconomic gradient was observed, with students from households earning 15,000 - 20,000 SR monthly showing the highest prevalence of very high-fat consumption (47.1%), although this association did not achieve statistical significance (p = 0.104). Conclusion: These findings challenge the conventional assumption that health sciences education correlates with superior dietary behaviors. The data suggests a critical need for enhanced education in nutrition, as well as intervention using various behavioral programs across all academic disciplines, particularly those addressing the disconnect between nutritional knowledge and dietary practices among students of health sciences. Future longitudinal studies are warranted in order to elucidate the temporal relationship between academic specialization and dietary behaviors.展开更多
"Reproductive health"was officially defined as humans and their individual activities related to reproduction throughout their lives,which should be in good health in physical,psychological,and social aspect..."Reproductive health"was officially defined as humans and their individual activities related to reproduction throughout their lives,which should be in good health in physical,psychological,and social aspects.1 The basic research on male reproductive health in China can be traced back to the 1960s.2 Since the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC)began systematic support for basic research on male reproductive health in 1988,the field has been systematically developed in China.In this regard,we analyze the role of the NSFC on the development of basic research in the field of male reproductive health in China.展开更多
Microneedles(MNs)have been extensively investigated for transdermal delivery of large-sized drugs,including proteins,nucleic acids,and even extracellular vesicles(EVs).However,for their sufficient skin penetration,con...Microneedles(MNs)have been extensively investigated for transdermal delivery of large-sized drugs,including proteins,nucleic acids,and even extracellular vesicles(EVs).However,for their sufficient skin penetration,conventional MNs employ long needles(≥600μm),leading to pain and skin irritation.Moreover,it is critical to stably apply MNs against complex skin surfaces for uniform nanoscale drug delivery.Herein,a dually amplified transdermal patch(MN@EV/SC)is developed as the stem cell-derived EV delivery platform by hierarchically integrating an octopusinspired suction cup(SC)with short MNs(≤300μm).While leveraging the suction effect to induce nanoscale deformation of the stratum corneum,MN@EV/SC minimizes skin damage and enhances the adhesion of MNs,allowing EV to penetrate deeper into the dermis.When MNs of various lengths are applied to mouse skin,the short MNs can elicit comparable corticosterone release to chemical adhesives,whereas long MNs induce a prompt stress response.MN@EV/SC can achieve a remarkable penetration depth(290μm)for EV,compared to that of MN alone(111μm).Consequently,MN@EV/SC facilitates the revitalization of fibroblasts and enhances collagen synthesis in middle-aged mice.Overall,MN@EV/SC exhibits the potential for skin regeneration by modulating the dermal microenvironment and ensuring patient comfort.展开更多
Periodontitis has emerged as one of the most critical oral diseases, and research on this condition holds great importance for the advancement of stomatology. As the most authoritative national scientific research fun...Periodontitis has emerged as one of the most critical oral diseases, and research on this condition holds great importance for the advancement of stomatology. As the most authoritative national scientific research funding institution in China, the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) has played a pivotal role in driving the progress of periodontal science by supporting research on periodontitis. This article provides a comprehensive review of the research and development progress related to periodontitis in China from 2014 to 2023, highlighting the significant contributions of the NSFC to this field. We have summarized the detailed funding information from the NSFC, including the number of applicant codes, funded programs and the distribution of funded scholars. These data illustrate the efforts of the NSFC in cultivating young scientists and building research groups to address key challenges in national scientific research. This study offers an overview of the current hot topics, recent breakthroughs and future research prospects related to periodontitis in China.展开更多
Over the past ten years,numerous papers have been published on the use of indocyanine green(ICG)fluorescence in liver surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).There are many different applications.The first involves ...Over the past ten years,numerous papers have been published on the use of indocyanine green(ICG)fluorescence in liver surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).There are many different applications.The first involves targeting superficial tumors in patients with macronodular cirrhosis and an irregular liver surface.In a minimally invasive setting,the lack of tactile feedback on the hepatic surface makes detecting subcapsular HCC with ultrasound alone challenging.ICG fusion images can mimic the tactile feedback of the hand and act as an ultrasound booster.ICG fluorescence can be used to evaluate tumor residues after minimally invasive thermal ablation.ICG fluorescence imaging can also be used to identify the grade of HCC early on and evaluate the microinvasive component.展开更多
Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between osteoporosis knowledge, beliefs and calcium intake among college students. This study also examined perceived susceptibility, severity, ben...Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between osteoporosis knowledge, beliefs and calcium intake among college students. This study also examined perceived susceptibility, severity, benefits, barriers and self-efficacy related to osteoporosis prevention. Participants: Seven hundred and ninety two (n = 792) men and women ages 17 - 31 of all ethnicities at a mid-western regional university in the US participated in the study. Methods: The Osteoporosis Knowledge Test, Osteoporosis Health Belief Scale, and Osteoporosis Preventing Behaviors Survey were utilized. Each of these tools were previously validated and found reliable. Correlation and multiple regression analyses were completed. Results: Participants did not perceive themselves as susceptible to osteoporosis and perceived minimal barriers to calcium intake. Their knowledge was minimal concerning alternate sources of calcium. Conclusions: Prevention programs should aim to increase osteoporosis knowledge of risk factors and osteoprotective behaviors and to decrease high-risk behaviors during college years when behavior changes can have the strongest impact on bone health.展开更多
Osteoarthritis(OA) in China is gradually becoming an important scientific research area that has had a significant impact on research and development(R&D) activities in the OA field worldwide. This article summari...Osteoarthritis(OA) in China is gradually becoming an important scientific research area that has had a significant impact on research and development(R&D) activities in the OA field worldwide. This article summarizes the R&D progress related to OA in China in recent years. The National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC) is a national funding institution for basic research and plays a critical role in promoting and supporting Chinese scholars’ R&D activities. We collected and analyzed information on NSFC funding in the field of OA from 2010 to 2019, including the amount, the level and the program categories of the funded projects. The data fully demonstrate the important and positive role of the NSFC in supporting free exploration, cultivating research teams and young talent, and boosting OA R&D. In this article, we outline and discuss hot topics in focused areas, key advances in this field and the prospects for progress in OA research in China.展开更多
Objective This study explains the application number and funding rate of oncology projects undertaken by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC),with focus on tumor radiotherapy-related research over th...Objective This study explains the application number and funding rate of oncology projects undertaken by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC),with focus on tumor radiotherapy-related research over the past 11 years.Methods A stratified analysis was carried out on the application and funding status of tumor radiotherapy studies in different NSFC project categories,different research areas,and different tumor types.Research areas that required specific focus,such as immunology-related radiotherapy,multimodality imaging and radiomics,and post-radiotherapy organ injury,were separately analyzed.Results The status and development trends of various related research fields were studied,and the research results were presented with the support of the NSFC,in order to provide reference for future applications and funding allocations.Conclusion The number of applications for funding increases every year.Although the total number of funded projects has also increased every year,the funding rate has decreased year by year.Projects on radiotherapy and immunization have been at the forefront in recent years,and the funding rate for these projects increases yearly.展开更多
In Europe, there are an increasing number of persons suffering from depression, which also affects many relatives. The burden and health when being the relative of an inpatient suffering from severe depression has bee...In Europe, there are an increasing number of persons suffering from depression, which also affects many relatives. The burden and health when being the relative of an inpatient suffering from severe depression has been less examined. The aim of the study was to describe burden, health and sense of coherence among relatives of inpatients with severe depression. Furthermore, the aim was to investigate relatives’ burden in relation to their health and sense of coherence. A cross-sectional design was performed, with a questionnaire consisting of background questions and three instruments;Burden Assessment Scale, General Health Questionnaire and Sense of Coherence scale. The participants consisted of 68 relatives recruited from a sample of inpatients diagnosed with depression in the psychiatric specialist health services in one hospital trust in Norway. The Regional Committee for Medical and Health Research Ethics, Norway South East, gave approval to the study. The relatives reported burden to a various degree, with some reporting a significantly greater burden, poorer health and a weaker sense of coherence than others. With regard to subjective burden eight out of ten relatives reported “Worry about future”, and almost six out of ten were “Upset by change in patient”. Regarding objective burden, more than half the relatives reported having “Less time for friends” and “Reduced leisure time”. In conclusion the relatives with a high level of burden reported more mental distress, poorer health and weaker sense of coherence than those with lower level of burden. Further research should focus on identification of factors predicting burden and health of relatives of inpatients with severe depression.展开更多
Background: Research indicates an association between impaired glucose metabolism and overweight, a serious public health problem involving an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, related hypertension, and a reduced qua...Background: Research indicates an association between impaired glucose metabolism and overweight, a serious public health problem involving an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, related hypertension, and a reduced quality of life. Aim: The first aim is to assess different dimensions of Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) in overweight individuals at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes compared to a normal population. The second aim is to examine the impact of resistance training on the pre-post HRQoL dimension scores of the intervention group. Methods: Eighteen participants were randomly assigned to one of the two resistance training groups. Group 1 engaged in supervised maximal resistance training (Bernstein inverted pyramid system: 5× 3 - 4, 60% - 85% of 1 Repetition Maximum (RM)), three days/week over four months, and Group 2 performed endurance resistance training (including lower weight loads and more repetitions over four months). The intervention consisted of eight exercises involving the entire body. The subjects completed the Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) on HRQoL. The HRQoL scores of the norm population were higher than those of people at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, and resistance training seemed to have a limited significant positive effect on the different HRQoL dimensions.展开更多
Background: The ability of managers of small-scale enterprises (SSEs) to prioritize health, working conditions, and their own physical fitness is an important issue for workplace health promotion in Norway and Sweden,...Background: The ability of managers of small-scale enterprises (SSEs) to prioritize health, working conditions, and their own physical fitness is an important issue for workplace health promotion in Norway and Sweden, where most owner-manager positions are in SSEs. Aim: To assess the physical fitness status of SSE managers compared to a norm population and to study changes in physical fitness status, self-reported physical activity, and sickness outcomes after workplace health interventions. Methods: The study allocated SSE managers to either an intervention or a reference group. The intervention, over twelve months, consisted of motivational input related to lifestyle and physical activity through tests and feedback, individual support, and courses on health and psychosocial working conditions. The participants (N = 28) completed health screening checks, questionnaires and testing before and after the intervention. Results: SSE managers in the study had positive outcomes for BMI levels and strength compared to the norm population, while percentage of fat for both men and women indicated poor results. There were no further improvements in the intervention group after comparison with the reference group. Separately, both groups seemed to improve strength and body composition. Conclusion: Workplace health interventions with essentially motivational components may increase SSE managers’ attention to physical fitness, but appear to have limited effects on objective and subjective physical fitness outcomes.展开更多
Social determinants of health (SDOH) contribute to cancer disparities among young Latina women (<50 years) residing in the counties along the US-Mexico border. These SDOH are particularly burdensome to young Latina...Social determinants of health (SDOH) contribute to cancer disparities among young Latina women (<50 years) residing in the counties along the US-Mexico border. These SDOH are particularly burdensome to young Latina mothers diagnosed with cancer while they are raising school-age children. Conexiones, a culturally adapted program designed to improve mother and child adjustment to maternal cancer, was piloted with diagnosed Latina mothers residing in border counties in New Mexico and Texas. The purpose of this case analysis was to highlight the SDOH affecting a young Latina mother’s cancer survivorship in the U.S.-Mexico border region. The participant’s Conexiones education sessions were recorded, transcribed, translated to English, back translated to Spanish to establish accuracy, and inductively coded. The participant’s baseline survey indicated she was a young (<50 years), married, Spanish-speaking Latina mother diagnosed with breast cancer while raising a teenage daughter. Seventeen SDOH themes affecting the participant’s cancer experience were identified in the cancer-related emotional triggers she reported across five Conexiones sessions. These themes were organized using Yanez’s conceptual model of determinants of cancer outcomes in Hispanics (i.e., socioeconomic, healthcare, cultural context, and psychosocial). Findings provide direction for cultural adaptations of evidence-based programs.展开更多
The National Natural Science Foundation of China is one of the major funding agencies for neuro rehabilitation research in China.This study reviews the frontier directions and achievements in the field of neurorehabil...The National Natural Science Foundation of China is one of the major funding agencies for neuro rehabilitation research in China.This study reviews the frontier directions and achievements in the field of neurorehabilitation in China and wo rldwide.We used data from the Web of Science Core Collection(WoSCC) database to analyze the publications and data provided by the National Natural Science Foundation of China to analyze funding information.In addition,the prospects for neurorehabilitation research in China are discussed.From 2010 to 2022,a total of 74,220 publications in neurorehabilitation were identified,with there being an overall upward tendency.During this period,the National Natural Science Foundation of China has funded 476 research projects with a total funding of 192.38 million RMB to support neuro rehabilitation research in China.With the support of the National Natural Science Foundation of China,China has made some achievements in neurorehabilitation research.Research related to neurorehabilitation is believed to be making steady and significant progress in China.展开更多
Understanding the neural underpinning of human gait and balance is one of the most pertinent challenges for 21st-century translational neuroscience due to the profound impact that falls and mobility disturbances have ...Understanding the neural underpinning of human gait and balance is one of the most pertinent challenges for 21st-century translational neuroscience due to the profound impact that falls and mobility disturbances have on our aging population.Posture and gait control does not happen automatically,as previously believed,but rather requires continuous involvement of central nervous mechanisms.To effectively exert control over the body,the brain must integrate multiple streams of sensory information,including visual,vestibular,and somatosensory signals.The mechanisms which underpin the integration of these multisensory signals are the principal topic of the present work.Existing multisensory integration theories focus on how failure of cognitive processes thought to be involved in multisensory integration leads to falls in older adults.Insufficient emphasis,however,has been placed on specific contributions of individual sensory modalities to multisensory integration processes and cross-modal interactions that occur between the sensory modalities in relation to gait and balance.In the present work,we review the contributions of somatosensory,visual,and vestibular modalities,along with their multisensory intersections to gait and balance in older adults and patients with Parkinson’s disease.We also review evidence of vestibular contributions to multisensory temporal binding windows,previously shown to be highly pertinent to fall risk in older adults.Lastly,we relate multisensory vestibular mechanisms to potential neural substrates,both at the level of neurobiology(concerning positron emission tomography imaging)and at the level of electrophysiology(concerning electroencephalography).We hope that this integrative review,drawing influence across multiple subdisciplines of neuroscience,paves the way for novel research directions and therapeutic neuromodulatory approaches,to improve the lives of older adults and patients with neurodegenerative diseases.展开更多
Background and aim: People suffering from mental illness and their experiences of attitudes towards them are rarely investigated from the perspective of the individual. The aim was to gain an understanding of how a gr...Background and aim: People suffering from mental illness and their experiences of attitudes towards them are rarely investigated from the perspective of the individual. The aim was to gain an understanding of how a group of mental health patients experienced social relationships in personal settings as well as in society. Method: Open interviews with twenty-five mental health patients were conducted and analysed with a qualitative content analysis. Result: The essence of the result was that mental health patients’ experiences are still not taken enough into account, neither by mental health professionals nor by their social networks. This was underpinned by four core categories: Patients’ experience of deteriorated and reduced social contacts due to various degrees of acceptance and knowledge of people in general;service users reported on difficulties with social contacts in general, with family relationships, relationships with friends and workmates and with employers;reduced life opportunities were expressed, including violated self-image and poor coping competence and, ambivalent experiences of contact with the mental health services were reported. Conclusion and clinical implication: The present study contributes to the understanding of mental health patients’ experiences of professional services and of their social networks. This knowledge may strengthen the implications of patient-centred care essential for the outcome of the care.展开更多
Thefirst years of life and the family context are key to the promotion and protection of children’s health and well-being,emphasizing the need for interventions aimed to support families with young children.This revi...Thefirst years of life and the family context are key to the promotion and protection of children’s health and well-being,emphasizing the need for interventions aimed to support families with young children.This review aimed to explore the effectiveness of early childhood interventions developed for promoting mental health and parenting among families with young children in the Nordic countries.Six electronic databases were systematically searched,and 20 articles covering 16 studies applying various quantitative and qualitative methods met the study inclusion criteria.The studied interventions were assessed as universal health-promoting interventions and health-promoting interventions with elements of prevention.Outcomes of interest encompassed mental health,related risk and protective factors among the parents and/or the children,or child-parent interaction.The results from studies applying statistical methods show significant improvements in parents’self-efficacy,self-esteem,and parental satisfaction,while few improvements in parents’social support or parental relationship were identified.Improvements in social support and parental relationships were however reported in qualitative studies.Most quantitative studies reporting on parents’mental health problems and stress found a significant decrease,and qualitative studies highlighted experienced positive effects on mental health and well-being.The majority of stu-dies reporting on children’s mental health and/or development as well as strengths and difficulties indicated a statistically significant positive development.No significant changes were however found for existing behavioral problems.The majority of studies examining parenting strategies and/or parent-child interaction found signifi-cant positive changes after the interventions.In sum,althoughfindings are heterogeneous,early childhood inter-ventions show various positive effects on the parenting and mental health of both children and their parents.The fact that different types of initiatives have been developed and implemented can be seen as an advantage,con-sidering the varying needs and expectations of different families.展开更多
This study aimed to explain factors affecting health-related quality of life among community-dwelling elderly individuals living in Japan. We conducted a questionnaire survey of 898 individuals at senior citizens club...This study aimed to explain factors affecting health-related quality of life among community-dwelling elderly individuals living in Japan. We conducted a questionnaire survey of 898 individuals at senior citizens clubs in a rural area near the Tokyo metropolitan area in 2015, and analyzed the responses of 715 who provided valid responses. The survey questions included basic attributes (e.g., age, economic affluence), state of health (e.g., whether s/he has heart disease or not), the Spirituality Rating Scale Related to Health in the Elderly (SP Health Scale, composed of, e.g., meaning and purpose of living, self-transcendence), the Abbreviated Lubben Social Network Scale, and the MOS 8-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-8). Multiple regression analyses were performed using the physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) of the SF-8 as dependent variables and all others as independent variables. Factors associated with improved PCS were economic affluence and SP Health Scale (meaning and purpose of living), while the factors associated with reduced PCS were age and state of health (heart disease, gastrointestinal disease, osteoarthritis, lower back pain, knee pain, and eligible for long-term care). Meanwhile, factors associated with improved MCS were economic affluence, while those that were associated with reduced MCS were state of health (cancer and headache) and SP Health Scale (self-transcendence). These results suggest the need to understand spirituality in addition to the subjective economic situation, age, and medical condition of elderly individuals in order to improve their physical and mental health.展开更多
Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are major causes of death in Japan, and controlling the risk factors for CVD is an important public health task. Lifestyle factors, for example, diet and stress, have impacts ...Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are major causes of death in Japan, and controlling the risk factors for CVD is an important public health task. Lifestyle factors, for example, diet and stress, have impacts on risk factors such as hypertension and hyperlipidemia. Deterioration of mental health is related to CVD pathogenesis. Aim: We investigated the relationships between levels of mental health, 4-year changes in lifestyle, and CVD risk factors among Japanese workers, using the SF-36 (Japanese version), which is a comprehensive scale measuring health-related quality of life. We hypothesized that workers’ mental health levels would influence 4-year changes in their lifestyles and CVD risk factors. Methods: Data from the High-Risk and Population Strategy for Occupational Health Promotion (HIPOP-OHP) study, which were collected by examination and administration of the SF-36, were used. The relationships between mental health levels at baseline, lifestyle chan- ges, and cardiovascular risk factors were longitudinally analyzed. Subjects with total SF-36 scores ≥65 were classified as the “Good Mental Health Group,” and those with total scores <65 were classified as the “Poor Mental Health Group.” Results: Multiple logistic regression analyses showed that, as compared to people who had poor mental health, those who had good mental health at baseline had a significantly higher probability of good maintenance of improvements in body mass index, (OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.03 - 1.39), blood pressure (OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.01 - 1.43), total cholesterol (OR = 1.07, 95% CI: 0.86 - 1.33) and HDL cholesterol (OR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.07 - 1.47). Conclusion: Japanese workers with good mental health tend to improve or maintain good lifestyle conditions and minimize CVD risk factors, while those with poor mental health generally have difficulty improving their lifestyles and lowering their CVD risk.展开更多
Background: Their knowledge of preventive health, coupled with their dynamic roles in the community, puts public health professionals in a key position to expand their roles in the health promotion and support of brea...Background: Their knowledge of preventive health, coupled with their dynamic roles in the community, puts public health professionals in a key position to expand their roles in the health promotion and support of breastfeeding as optimal infant feeding. This online tutorial was created to increase public health professionals’ knowledge about breastfeeding and to assess their attitudes in supporting healthy behaviors related to infant feeding as a health promotion strategy. Method: The study utilized an online breastfeeding tutorial based on the US Breast-feeding Committee recommendations for minimum breastfeeding knowledge for health professionals. Pre- and post-tutorial questionnaires assessed breastfeeding knowledge, and an attitudinal survey evaluated attitudes of public health professionals after the tutorial. Exposing public health students to this information can facilitate the early shaping of their attitudes and understanding about the importance of breastfeeding. Results: Fifty-two Northeastern University MPH students and alumni (62% response rate) completed the study. There was an overall gain in participants’ fundamental knowledge regarding breastfeeding as assessed by pre- (77%) to post-tutorial (97%) correct responses (p = 0.00001). The post-tutorial attitudinal survey showed that 92% of participants were comfortable in answering questions about breastfeeding as part of their professional responsibilities. Conclusion: This pilot study highlights the important role that a short online tutorial can play in expanding public health professionals’ knowledge about breastfeeding. Greater use of online methods can enhance awareness of critical health behaviors, such as breastfeeding, that have not received adequate attention in public health curricula. This pilot study provides the foundation for a larger study. Integration of breastfeeding into public health professionals’ core training could support broader social change.展开更多
<strong>Aim:</strong> To describe unlicensed personnel’s experience of digital signing lists via a smartphone application for the distribution of medication in municipal healthcare in Western Sweden.<s...<strong>Aim:</strong> To describe unlicensed personnel’s experience of digital signing lists via a smartphone application for the distribution of medication in municipal healthcare in Western Sweden.<strong> Design:</strong> A qualitative and quantitative design was used. <strong>Methods:</strong> The study included 48 unlicensed personnel, 28 of whom answered an open-ended questionnaire, while an additional 20 volunteered for individual interviews. The material was analysed by qualitative content analysis. <strong>Results:</strong> The results indicate that digital signing lists via a smartphone application are feasible, and efficient and facilitate the work. However, some aspects negatively affected the sense of security, meetings with patients and quality of care, such as an insufficient internet signal in some rural areas, difficulty remembering the password, as well as the change of focus from patient to smartphone. To improve quality of care and the meeting with the patient, it is crucial that the technology works and that unlicensed personnel develop technical skills.展开更多
文摘Background: In the global burden of non-communicable diseases, the top slot among them all is occupied by various cardiovascular diseases (CVD), which also claim primacy in mortality rates. Generally speaking, the pathophysiological pathway frequently involves either (or a combination of) elevated serum cholesterol levels, predominantly attributed to dietary patterns characterized by extremely high levels of saturated and trans-fat consumption. Day-to-day nutritional epidemiology among university students suggests that they represent a crucial demographic for the study of preventive interventions. Objective: This in-depth study and investigation were specifically aimed to quantitatively assess and compare prevailing patterns of dietary fat consumption between female students enrolled in health sciences and non-health sciences programs at major universities in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was comprised of 434 Saudi female university students (age range: 18 - 25 years), utilizing a validated Block Dietary Fat Screener accompanied by anthropometric measurements and comprehensive demographic data collection. The sampling methodology consisted of a snowball technique that was spread across three major academic institutions in Riyadh. Results: Statistical analysis revealed a significant association between academic specialization and patterns of dietary fat consumption (p = 0.012). Paradoxically, students of health science exhibited a higher prevalence of very high fat intake (41.9%) compared with their non-health sciences counterparts (27.6%). Surprisingly, anthropometric stratification revealed that it was the underweight students who demonstrated very high levels of fat consumption. A notable socioeconomic gradient was observed, with students from households earning 15,000 - 20,000 SR monthly showing the highest prevalence of very high-fat consumption (47.1%), although this association did not achieve statistical significance (p = 0.104). Conclusion: These findings challenge the conventional assumption that health sciences education correlates with superior dietary behaviors. The data suggests a critical need for enhanced education in nutrition, as well as intervention using various behavioral programs across all academic disciplines, particularly those addressing the disconnect between nutritional knowledge and dietary practices among students of health sciences. Future longitudinal studies are warranted in order to elucidate the temporal relationship between academic specialization and dietary behaviors.
文摘"Reproductive health"was officially defined as humans and their individual activities related to reproduction throughout their lives,which should be in good health in physical,psychological,and social aspects.1 The basic research on male reproductive health in China can be traced back to the 1960s.2 Since the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC)began systematic support for basic research on male reproductive health in 1988,the field has been systematically developed in China.In this regard,we analyze the role of the NSFC on the development of basic research in the field of male reproductive health in China.
基金supported by National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF)grants funded by the Korean government(MSIT)(No.RS-2023-00256265,RS-2024-00352352,RS-2024-00405818)the Korean Fund for Regenerative Medicine(KFRM)grant funded by the Korea government(the Ministry of Science and ICT,the Ministry of Health&Welfare).(No.25A0102L1)support from the Market-led K-sensor technology program(RS-2022-00154781,Development of large-area wafer-level flexible/stretchable hybrid sensor platform technology for form factor-free highly integrated convergence sensor),funded By the Ministry of Trade,Industry&Energy(MOTIE,Korea).
文摘Microneedles(MNs)have been extensively investigated for transdermal delivery of large-sized drugs,including proteins,nucleic acids,and even extracellular vesicles(EVs).However,for their sufficient skin penetration,conventional MNs employ long needles(≥600μm),leading to pain and skin irritation.Moreover,it is critical to stably apply MNs against complex skin surfaces for uniform nanoscale drug delivery.Herein,a dually amplified transdermal patch(MN@EV/SC)is developed as the stem cell-derived EV delivery platform by hierarchically integrating an octopusinspired suction cup(SC)with short MNs(≤300μm).While leveraging the suction effect to induce nanoscale deformation of the stratum corneum,MN@EV/SC minimizes skin damage and enhances the adhesion of MNs,allowing EV to penetrate deeper into the dermis.When MNs of various lengths are applied to mouse skin,the short MNs can elicit comparable corticosterone release to chemical adhesives,whereas long MNs induce a prompt stress response.MN@EV/SC can achieve a remarkable penetration depth(290μm)for EV,compared to that of MN alone(111μm).Consequently,MN@EV/SC facilitates the revitalization of fibroblasts and enhances collagen synthesis in middle-aged mice.Overall,MN@EV/SC exhibits the potential for skin regeneration by modulating the dermal microenvironment and ensuring patient comfort.
文摘Periodontitis has emerged as one of the most critical oral diseases, and research on this condition holds great importance for the advancement of stomatology. As the most authoritative national scientific research funding institution in China, the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) has played a pivotal role in driving the progress of periodontal science by supporting research on periodontitis. This article provides a comprehensive review of the research and development progress related to periodontitis in China from 2014 to 2023, highlighting the significant contributions of the NSFC to this field. We have summarized the detailed funding information from the NSFC, including the number of applicant codes, funded programs and the distribution of funded scholars. These data illustrate the efforts of the NSFC in cultivating young scientists and building research groups to address key challenges in national scientific research. This study offers an overview of the current hot topics, recent breakthroughs and future research prospects related to periodontitis in China.
文摘Over the past ten years,numerous papers have been published on the use of indocyanine green(ICG)fluorescence in liver surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).There are many different applications.The first involves targeting superficial tumors in patients with macronodular cirrhosis and an irregular liver surface.In a minimally invasive setting,the lack of tactile feedback on the hepatic surface makes detecting subcapsular HCC with ultrasound alone challenging.ICG fusion images can mimic the tactile feedback of the hand and act as an ultrasound booster.ICG fluorescence can be used to evaluate tumor residues after minimally invasive thermal ablation.ICG fluorescence imaging can also be used to identify the grade of HCC early on and evaluate the microinvasive component.
文摘Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between osteoporosis knowledge, beliefs and calcium intake among college students. This study also examined perceived susceptibility, severity, benefits, barriers and self-efficacy related to osteoporosis prevention. Participants: Seven hundred and ninety two (n = 792) men and women ages 17 - 31 of all ethnicities at a mid-western regional university in the US participated in the study. Methods: The Osteoporosis Knowledge Test, Osteoporosis Health Belief Scale, and Osteoporosis Preventing Behaviors Survey were utilized. Each of these tools were previously validated and found reliable. Correlation and multiple regression analyses were completed. Results: Participants did not perceive themselves as susceptible to osteoporosis and perceived minimal barriers to calcium intake. Their knowledge was minimal concerning alternate sources of calcium. Conclusions: Prevention programs should aim to increase osteoporosis knowledge of risk factors and osteoprotective behaviors and to decrease high-risk behaviors during college years when behavior changes can have the strongest impact on bone health.
文摘Osteoarthritis(OA) in China is gradually becoming an important scientific research area that has had a significant impact on research and development(R&D) activities in the OA field worldwide. This article summarizes the R&D progress related to OA in China in recent years. The National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC) is a national funding institution for basic research and plays a critical role in promoting and supporting Chinese scholars’ R&D activities. We collected and analyzed information on NSFC funding in the field of OA from 2010 to 2019, including the amount, the level and the program categories of the funded projects. The data fully demonstrate the important and positive role of the NSFC in supporting free exploration, cultivating research teams and young talent, and boosting OA R&D. In this article, we outline and discuss hot topics in focused areas, key advances in this field and the prospects for progress in OA research in China.
文摘Objective This study explains the application number and funding rate of oncology projects undertaken by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC),with focus on tumor radiotherapy-related research over the past 11 years.Methods A stratified analysis was carried out on the application and funding status of tumor radiotherapy studies in different NSFC project categories,different research areas,and different tumor types.Research areas that required specific focus,such as immunology-related radiotherapy,multimodality imaging and radiomics,and post-radiotherapy organ injury,were separately analyzed.Results The status and development trends of various related research fields were studied,and the research results were presented with the support of the NSFC,in order to provide reference for future applications and funding allocations.Conclusion The number of applications for funding increases every year.Although the total number of funded projects has also increased every year,the funding rate has decreased year by year.Projects on radiotherapy and immunization have been at the forefront in recent years,and the funding rate for these projects increases yearly.
文摘In Europe, there are an increasing number of persons suffering from depression, which also affects many relatives. The burden and health when being the relative of an inpatient suffering from severe depression has been less examined. The aim of the study was to describe burden, health and sense of coherence among relatives of inpatients with severe depression. Furthermore, the aim was to investigate relatives’ burden in relation to their health and sense of coherence. A cross-sectional design was performed, with a questionnaire consisting of background questions and three instruments;Burden Assessment Scale, General Health Questionnaire and Sense of Coherence scale. The participants consisted of 68 relatives recruited from a sample of inpatients diagnosed with depression in the psychiatric specialist health services in one hospital trust in Norway. The Regional Committee for Medical and Health Research Ethics, Norway South East, gave approval to the study. The relatives reported burden to a various degree, with some reporting a significantly greater burden, poorer health and a weaker sense of coherence than others. With regard to subjective burden eight out of ten relatives reported “Worry about future”, and almost six out of ten were “Upset by change in patient”. Regarding objective burden, more than half the relatives reported having “Less time for friends” and “Reduced leisure time”. In conclusion the relatives with a high level of burden reported more mental distress, poorer health and weaker sense of coherence than those with lower level of burden. Further research should focus on identification of factors predicting burden and health of relatives of inpatients with severe depression.
文摘Background: Research indicates an association between impaired glucose metabolism and overweight, a serious public health problem involving an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, related hypertension, and a reduced quality of life. Aim: The first aim is to assess different dimensions of Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) in overweight individuals at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes compared to a normal population. The second aim is to examine the impact of resistance training on the pre-post HRQoL dimension scores of the intervention group. Methods: Eighteen participants were randomly assigned to one of the two resistance training groups. Group 1 engaged in supervised maximal resistance training (Bernstein inverted pyramid system: 5× 3 - 4, 60% - 85% of 1 Repetition Maximum (RM)), three days/week over four months, and Group 2 performed endurance resistance training (including lower weight loads and more repetitions over four months). The intervention consisted of eight exercises involving the entire body. The subjects completed the Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) on HRQoL. The HRQoL scores of the norm population were higher than those of people at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, and resistance training seemed to have a limited significant positive effect on the different HRQoL dimensions.
文摘Background: The ability of managers of small-scale enterprises (SSEs) to prioritize health, working conditions, and their own physical fitness is an important issue for workplace health promotion in Norway and Sweden, where most owner-manager positions are in SSEs. Aim: To assess the physical fitness status of SSE managers compared to a norm population and to study changes in physical fitness status, self-reported physical activity, and sickness outcomes after workplace health interventions. Methods: The study allocated SSE managers to either an intervention or a reference group. The intervention, over twelve months, consisted of motivational input related to lifestyle and physical activity through tests and feedback, individual support, and courses on health and psychosocial working conditions. The participants (N = 28) completed health screening checks, questionnaires and testing before and after the intervention. Results: SSE managers in the study had positive outcomes for BMI levels and strength compared to the norm population, while percentage of fat for both men and women indicated poor results. There were no further improvements in the intervention group after comparison with the reference group. Separately, both groups seemed to improve strength and body composition. Conclusion: Workplace health interventions with essentially motivational components may increase SSE managers’ attention to physical fitness, but appear to have limited effects on objective and subjective physical fitness outcomes.
文摘Social determinants of health (SDOH) contribute to cancer disparities among young Latina women (<50 years) residing in the counties along the US-Mexico border. These SDOH are particularly burdensome to young Latina mothers diagnosed with cancer while they are raising school-age children. Conexiones, a culturally adapted program designed to improve mother and child adjustment to maternal cancer, was piloted with diagnosed Latina mothers residing in border counties in New Mexico and Texas. The purpose of this case analysis was to highlight the SDOH affecting a young Latina mother’s cancer survivorship in the U.S.-Mexico border region. The participant’s Conexiones education sessions were recorded, transcribed, translated to English, back translated to Spanish to establish accuracy, and inductively coded. The participant’s baseline survey indicated she was a young (<50 years), married, Spanish-speaking Latina mother diagnosed with breast cancer while raising a teenage daughter. Seventeen SDOH themes affecting the participant’s cancer experience were identified in the cancer-related emotional triggers she reported across five Conexiones sessions. These themes were organized using Yanez’s conceptual model of determinants of cancer outcomes in Hispanics (i.e., socioeconomic, healthcare, cultural context, and psychosocial). Findings provide direction for cultural adaptations of evidence-based programs.
文摘The National Natural Science Foundation of China is one of the major funding agencies for neuro rehabilitation research in China.This study reviews the frontier directions and achievements in the field of neurorehabilitation in China and wo rldwide.We used data from the Web of Science Core Collection(WoSCC) database to analyze the publications and data provided by the National Natural Science Foundation of China to analyze funding information.In addition,the prospects for neurorehabilitation research in China are discussed.From 2010 to 2022,a total of 74,220 publications in neurorehabilitation were identified,with there being an overall upward tendency.During this period,the National Natural Science Foundation of China has funded 476 research projects with a total funding of 192.38 million RMB to support neuro rehabilitation research in China.With the support of the National Natural Science Foundation of China,China has made some achievements in neurorehabilitation research.Research related to neurorehabilitation is believed to be making steady and significant progress in China.
文摘Understanding the neural underpinning of human gait and balance is one of the most pertinent challenges for 21st-century translational neuroscience due to the profound impact that falls and mobility disturbances have on our aging population.Posture and gait control does not happen automatically,as previously believed,but rather requires continuous involvement of central nervous mechanisms.To effectively exert control over the body,the brain must integrate multiple streams of sensory information,including visual,vestibular,and somatosensory signals.The mechanisms which underpin the integration of these multisensory signals are the principal topic of the present work.Existing multisensory integration theories focus on how failure of cognitive processes thought to be involved in multisensory integration leads to falls in older adults.Insufficient emphasis,however,has been placed on specific contributions of individual sensory modalities to multisensory integration processes and cross-modal interactions that occur between the sensory modalities in relation to gait and balance.In the present work,we review the contributions of somatosensory,visual,and vestibular modalities,along with their multisensory intersections to gait and balance in older adults and patients with Parkinson’s disease.We also review evidence of vestibular contributions to multisensory temporal binding windows,previously shown to be highly pertinent to fall risk in older adults.Lastly,we relate multisensory vestibular mechanisms to potential neural substrates,both at the level of neurobiology(concerning positron emission tomography imaging)and at the level of electrophysiology(concerning electroencephalography).We hope that this integrative review,drawing influence across multiple subdisciplines of neuroscience,paves the way for novel research directions and therapeutic neuromodulatory approaches,to improve the lives of older adults and patients with neurodegenerative diseases.
文摘Background and aim: People suffering from mental illness and their experiences of attitudes towards them are rarely investigated from the perspective of the individual. The aim was to gain an understanding of how a group of mental health patients experienced social relationships in personal settings as well as in society. Method: Open interviews with twenty-five mental health patients were conducted and analysed with a qualitative content analysis. Result: The essence of the result was that mental health patients’ experiences are still not taken enough into account, neither by mental health professionals nor by their social networks. This was underpinned by four core categories: Patients’ experience of deteriorated and reduced social contacts due to various degrees of acceptance and knowledge of people in general;service users reported on difficulties with social contacts in general, with family relationships, relationships with friends and workmates and with employers;reduced life opportunities were expressed, including violated self-image and poor coping competence and, ambivalent experiences of contact with the mental health services were reported. Conclusion and clinical implication: The present study contributes to the understanding of mental health patients’ experiences of professional services and of their social networks. This knowledge may strengthen the implications of patient-centred care essential for the outcome of the care.
文摘Thefirst years of life and the family context are key to the promotion and protection of children’s health and well-being,emphasizing the need for interventions aimed to support families with young children.This review aimed to explore the effectiveness of early childhood interventions developed for promoting mental health and parenting among families with young children in the Nordic countries.Six electronic databases were systematically searched,and 20 articles covering 16 studies applying various quantitative and qualitative methods met the study inclusion criteria.The studied interventions were assessed as universal health-promoting interventions and health-promoting interventions with elements of prevention.Outcomes of interest encompassed mental health,related risk and protective factors among the parents and/or the children,or child-parent interaction.The results from studies applying statistical methods show significant improvements in parents’self-efficacy,self-esteem,and parental satisfaction,while few improvements in parents’social support or parental relationship were identified.Improvements in social support and parental relationships were however reported in qualitative studies.Most quantitative studies reporting on parents’mental health problems and stress found a significant decrease,and qualitative studies highlighted experienced positive effects on mental health and well-being.The majority of stu-dies reporting on children’s mental health and/or development as well as strengths and difficulties indicated a statistically significant positive development.No significant changes were however found for existing behavioral problems.The majority of studies examining parenting strategies and/or parent-child interaction found signifi-cant positive changes after the interventions.In sum,althoughfindings are heterogeneous,early childhood inter-ventions show various positive effects on the parenting and mental health of both children and their parents.The fact that different types of initiatives have been developed and implemented can be seen as an advantage,con-sidering the varying needs and expectations of different families.
文摘This study aimed to explain factors affecting health-related quality of life among community-dwelling elderly individuals living in Japan. We conducted a questionnaire survey of 898 individuals at senior citizens clubs in a rural area near the Tokyo metropolitan area in 2015, and analyzed the responses of 715 who provided valid responses. The survey questions included basic attributes (e.g., age, economic affluence), state of health (e.g., whether s/he has heart disease or not), the Spirituality Rating Scale Related to Health in the Elderly (SP Health Scale, composed of, e.g., meaning and purpose of living, self-transcendence), the Abbreviated Lubben Social Network Scale, and the MOS 8-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-8). Multiple regression analyses were performed using the physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) of the SF-8 as dependent variables and all others as independent variables. Factors associated with improved PCS were economic affluence and SP Health Scale (meaning and purpose of living), while the factors associated with reduced PCS were age and state of health (heart disease, gastrointestinal disease, osteoarthritis, lower back pain, knee pain, and eligible for long-term care). Meanwhile, factors associated with improved MCS were economic affluence, while those that were associated with reduced MCS were state of health (cancer and headache) and SP Health Scale (self-transcendence). These results suggest the need to understand spirituality in addition to the subjective economic situation, age, and medical condition of elderly individuals in order to improve their physical and mental health.
文摘Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are major causes of death in Japan, and controlling the risk factors for CVD is an important public health task. Lifestyle factors, for example, diet and stress, have impacts on risk factors such as hypertension and hyperlipidemia. Deterioration of mental health is related to CVD pathogenesis. Aim: We investigated the relationships between levels of mental health, 4-year changes in lifestyle, and CVD risk factors among Japanese workers, using the SF-36 (Japanese version), which is a comprehensive scale measuring health-related quality of life. We hypothesized that workers’ mental health levels would influence 4-year changes in their lifestyles and CVD risk factors. Methods: Data from the High-Risk and Population Strategy for Occupational Health Promotion (HIPOP-OHP) study, which were collected by examination and administration of the SF-36, were used. The relationships between mental health levels at baseline, lifestyle chan- ges, and cardiovascular risk factors were longitudinally analyzed. Subjects with total SF-36 scores ≥65 were classified as the “Good Mental Health Group,” and those with total scores <65 were classified as the “Poor Mental Health Group.” Results: Multiple logistic regression analyses showed that, as compared to people who had poor mental health, those who had good mental health at baseline had a significantly higher probability of good maintenance of improvements in body mass index, (OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.03 - 1.39), blood pressure (OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.01 - 1.43), total cholesterol (OR = 1.07, 95% CI: 0.86 - 1.33) and HDL cholesterol (OR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.07 - 1.47). Conclusion: Japanese workers with good mental health tend to improve or maintain good lifestyle conditions and minimize CVD risk factors, while those with poor mental health generally have difficulty improving their lifestyles and lowering their CVD risk.
文摘Background: Their knowledge of preventive health, coupled with their dynamic roles in the community, puts public health professionals in a key position to expand their roles in the health promotion and support of breastfeeding as optimal infant feeding. This online tutorial was created to increase public health professionals’ knowledge about breastfeeding and to assess their attitudes in supporting healthy behaviors related to infant feeding as a health promotion strategy. Method: The study utilized an online breastfeeding tutorial based on the US Breast-feeding Committee recommendations for minimum breastfeeding knowledge for health professionals. Pre- and post-tutorial questionnaires assessed breastfeeding knowledge, and an attitudinal survey evaluated attitudes of public health professionals after the tutorial. Exposing public health students to this information can facilitate the early shaping of their attitudes and understanding about the importance of breastfeeding. Results: Fifty-two Northeastern University MPH students and alumni (62% response rate) completed the study. There was an overall gain in participants’ fundamental knowledge regarding breastfeeding as assessed by pre- (77%) to post-tutorial (97%) correct responses (p = 0.00001). The post-tutorial attitudinal survey showed that 92% of participants were comfortable in answering questions about breastfeeding as part of their professional responsibilities. Conclusion: This pilot study highlights the important role that a short online tutorial can play in expanding public health professionals’ knowledge about breastfeeding. Greater use of online methods can enhance awareness of critical health behaviors, such as breastfeeding, that have not received adequate attention in public health curricula. This pilot study provides the foundation for a larger study. Integration of breastfeeding into public health professionals’ core training could support broader social change.
文摘<strong>Aim:</strong> To describe unlicensed personnel’s experience of digital signing lists via a smartphone application for the distribution of medication in municipal healthcare in Western Sweden.<strong> Design:</strong> A qualitative and quantitative design was used. <strong>Methods:</strong> The study included 48 unlicensed personnel, 28 of whom answered an open-ended questionnaire, while an additional 20 volunteered for individual interviews. The material was analysed by qualitative content analysis. <strong>Results:</strong> The results indicate that digital signing lists via a smartphone application are feasible, and efficient and facilitate the work. However, some aspects negatively affected the sense of security, meetings with patients and quality of care, such as an insufficient internet signal in some rural areas, difficulty remembering the password, as well as the change of focus from patient to smartphone. To improve quality of care and the meeting with the patient, it is crucial that the technology works and that unlicensed personnel develop technical skills.
