Search Results (3,048)

Background/Objectives. A notable decline in physical activity from late adolescence to early adulthood affects young women especially. This study aimed to investigate adherence to an unsupervised virtual-guided high-intensity interval training (HIIT) exercise program among young women in Spain. Methods. A total of 106 participants were recruited and randomized to the Women’s Involvement in Steady Exercise (WISE) trial exercise program, administered remotely via a mobile app, and a control group. The primary outcome was adherence measured through daily steps. Secondary variables were patient-reported outcomes of physical activity, quality of sleep, and quality of life, assessed with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and the Health Lifestyle and Personal Control Questionnaire (HLPCQ), respectively. The assessments were performed over 6 months, before the intervention (T0), at the halfway of the program (T1), and at the end (T2). Results. Daily steps revealed a decrease from baseline to final assessment in both groups. Secondary outcomes indicated a shift in physical activity levels, showing a transition from low to moderate and high activity perception. While sleep quality deteriorated post-intervention, quality of life showed no changes. Conclusions. The WISE trial highlights the potential and challenges of an unsupervised virtual-guided HIIT program for young women. While an improvement in physical activity levels was noticed, it also led to a decrease in daily steps and poorer sleep quality. These findings suggest a complex relationship between exercise and lifestyle factors, which could potentially have the greatest impact. Full article

This research examines the evolution of Japanese residential architecture throughout the 20th century, focusing on the transformation of house plans in response to changing societal needs. This study specifically examines how traditional spatial configurations adapted to urbanization, modernisation, and shifts in the family structure. By analysing house plans across three distinct periods—the pre-war and post-Kanto earthquake period, the post-war period, and the post-oil shock period to the present—this research illustrates the transition from detached houses to modern collective housing. Utilising a space syntax methodology, this research quantitatively analyses threshold spaces, circulation, and family gathering spaces to understand their social and architectural implications. Historical analyses are paired with a network analysis of selected house plans, highlighting the persistent significance of traditional elements such as the doma (vestibule) and the en-gawa (verandah) in contemporary designs. The findings demonstrate a significant reduction in the size and complexity of living spaces over time, reflecting broader trends towards efficiency and modernisation in public housing. This research contributes to architectural scholarship by providing a detailed account of how Japanese customary spaces have been reconfigured to accommodate evolving lifestyles, offering insights into the balance between tradition and modern living. Full article

Background and Objectives: Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic disease that is massively underdiagnosed worldwide. Affected patients are at high risk of cardiovascular events at young ages. Early intervention in childhood could help prevent heart attacks and cerebral strokes in these patients. Materials and Methods: We conducted an interventional study including 10 patients that previously underwent genetic testing for familial hypercholesterolemia. These patients received lifestyle and diet recommendations that they followed for a year before being reevaluated. Results: Patients with negative genetic testing were able to achieve lower levels in their lipid panel values compared to the patients with positive genetic testing, with lifestyle changes alone. LDL-cholesterol levels decreased by 18.5% in patients without FH while patients genetically confirmed with FH failed to achieve lower LDL-cholesterol levels without medication. Conclusions: Genetic testing for FH is not always part of screening algorithms for FH. Some studies even advise against it. Our study proved the importance of genetic testing for FH when suspecting this disorder and choosing the treatment course for patients. Full article

A quasi-consensus has steadily formed in the scientific literature on the fact that the prevention measures implemented by most countries to curb the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic have led to significant reductions in pollution levels around the world, especially in urban environments. Fewer studies have looked at how these reductions at the ground level translate into variations in the whole atmosphere. In this study, we examine the columnar values of aerosols at 51 mainland European stations of the Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET). We show that when considered in the context of the long-term trend over the last decade, the columnar aerosol levels for 2020, at the regional level, do not appear exceptional. Both the yearly means and the number of episodes with extreme values for this period are within one standard deviation of the long-term trends. We conclude that the spatially and temporally localized reductions do not add up to statistically significant reductions at the global levels of aerosols. Furthermore, considering that pandemic lockdowns can be thought of as a simulation of a climate change mitigation scenario, we conclude that such lifestyle-based changes present a very low potential as a global climate change mitigation strategy. Full article

Understanding chronic kidney disease (CKD) through the lens of evolutionary biology highlights the mismatch between our Paleolithic-optimized genes and modern diets, which led to the dramatically increased prevalence of CKD in modern societies. In particular, the Standard American Diet (SAD), high in carbohydrates and ultra-processed foods, causes conditions like type 2 diabetes (T2D), chronic inflammation, and hypertension, leading to CKD. Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), a genetic form of CKD, is characterized by progressive renal cystogenesis that leads to renal failure. This review challenges the fatalistic view of ADPKD as solely a genetic disease. We argue that, just like non-genetic CKD, modern dietary practices, lifestyle, and environmental exposures initiate and accelerate ADPKD progression. Evidence shows that carbohydrate overconsumption, hyperglycemia, and insulin resistance significantly impact renal health. Additionally, factors like dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, nephrotoxin exposure, gastrointestinal dysbiosis, and renal microcrystal formation exacerbate ADPKD. Conversely, carbohydrate restriction, ketogenic metabolic therapy (KMT), and antagonizing the lithogenic risk show promise in slowing ADPKD progression. Addressing disease triggers through dietary modifications and lifestyle changes offers a conservative, non-pharmacological strategy for disease modification in ADPKD. This comprehensive review underscores the urgency of integrating diet and lifestyle factors into the clinical management of ADPKD to mitigate disease progression, improve patient outcomes, and offer therapeutic choices that can be implemented worldwide at low or no cost to healthcare payers and patients. Full article

According to recent data, one in eight people in the world struggle with obesity. Obesity management is increasingly dependent on bariatric surgical interventions, as the combination of lifestyle modifications and pharmacotherapy could have a modest long-term effect. Surgery is recommended only for individuals whose body mass index (BMI) ≥ 40 kg/m² and ≥ 35 kg/m² in the presence of weight-related comorbidities. The most commonly performed procedures are sleeve gastrectomy and roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic alterations occur as a result of the anatomical and physiological changes caused by surgery, which further differ depending on physicochemical drug factors and factors related to the dosage form. The following modifications are distinguished based on the type of bariatric surgery performed. Most bariatric patients have accompanying comorbidities, including dyslipidemia treated with hydroxymethylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors or statins. Significant improvements in the lipid profile are observed early in the postoperative period. The data reported in this review on statin pharmacokinetic alterations have demonstrated substantial inter- and intravariability, making it difficult to adopt clear guidelines. Based on the current literature review, reducing the statin dose to the lowest effective with continuous monitoring is considered an optimal approach in clinical practice. Full article

The influence of microalgae on the formation of associated prokaryotic assemblages in halophilic microbial communities is currently underestimated. The aim of this study was to characterize shifts in prokaryotic assemblages of halophilic microalgae upon their transition to laboratory cultivation. Monoalgal cultures belonging to the classes Chlorodendrophyceae, Bacillariophyceae, Trebouxiophyceae, and Chlorophyceae were isolated from habitats with intermediate salinity, about 100 g/L, nearby Elton Lake (Russia). Significant changes were revealed in the structure of algae-associated prokaryotic assemblages, indicating that microalgae supported sufficiently diverse and even communities of prokaryotes. Despite some similarities in their prokaryotic assemblages, taxon-specific complexes of dominant genera were identified for each microalga species. These complexes were most different among Alphaproteobacteria, likely due to their close association with microalgae. Other taxon-specific bacteria included members of phylum Verrucomicrobiota (Coraliomargarita in assemblages of Navicula sp.) and class Gammaproteobacteria (Salinispirillum in microbiomes of A. gracilis). After numerous washings of algal cells, only alphaproteobacteria Marivibrio remained in all assemblages of T. indica, likely due to a firm attachment to the microalgae cells. Our results may be useful for further efforts to develop technologies applied for industrial cultivation of halophilic microalgae and for developing approaches to obtain new prokaryotes with a microalgae-associated lifestyle. Full article

This review describes the development history of group-III nitride light-emitting diodes (LEDs) for over 30 years, which has achieved brilliant achievements and changed people′s lifestyles. The development process of group-III nitride LEDs is the sum of challenges and solutions constantly encountered with shrinking size. Therefore, this paper uses these challenges and solutions as clues for review. It begins with reviewing the development of group-III nitride materials and substrates. On this basis, some key technological breakthroughs in the development of group-III nitride LEDs are reviewed, mainly including substrate pretreatment and p-type doping in material growth, the proposal of new device structures such as nano-LED and quantum dot (QD) LED, and the improvement in luminous efficiency, from the initial challenge of high-efficiency blue luminescence to current challenge of high-efficiency ultraviolet (UV) and red luminescence. Then, the development of micro-LEDs based on group-III nitride LEDs is reviewed in detail. As a new type of display device, micro-LED has drawn a great deal of attention and has become a research hotspot in the current international display area. Finally, based on micro-LEDs, the development trend of nano-LEDs is proposed, which is greener and energy-saving and is expected to become a new star in the future display field. Full article

As our population ages, the medical challenges it faces become increasingly acute, with chronic kidney disease (CKD) becoming more prevalent among older adults. Frailty is alarmingly more common in CKD patients than in the general populace, putting the elderly at high risk of both physical and cognitive decline. CKD not only accelerates physical deterioration, but also heightens vascular dysfunction, calcification, arterial rigidity, systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and cognitive impairment. Cognitive frailty, a distinct syndrome marked by cognitive deficits caused by physiological causes (excluding Alzheimer’s and other dementias), is a critical concern. Although cognitive impairment has been well-studied, the molecular mechanisms driving cognitive frailty remain largely uncharted. Comprehensive interventions, including cutting-edge pharmaceuticals and lifestyle changes, are pivotal and effective, especially in the early stages of CKD. Recent research suggests that systematic exercise could counteract cognitive decline by improving brain blood flow, boosting neuroplasticity through the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and by triggering the release of neurotrophic factors such as insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1). This review delves into the molecular pathways of cognitive frailty in CKD, identifies key risk factors, and highlights therapeutic approaches, particularly the potent role of exercise in enhancing cognitive health. Full article

Background and Objectives: Obesity and related disorders are an increasing global health problem. Achieving and maintaining long-term weight loss through lifestyle changes and/or pharmacological interventions have not met expectations. Dietary supplements and alternative treatments have also shown limited effectiveness in this regard. The consumption of green tea in general has been shown to benefit obese patients, with effects attributed to caffeine, catechins, polyphenols and other components. However, the potential of white tea to prevent and treat the negative effects of obesity has not been addressed so far. In this study, the effect of white tea (WT) consumption in obese individuals was anthropometrically and biochemically investigated. Materials and Methods: Based on anthropometric and biochemical assessments, the patients were assigned to the control, orlistat, metformin and WT groups. Patients were given a diet and exercise program and one of either orlistat, metformin or WT for 12 weeks. At the end of the 12th week, the anthropometric and biochemical measurements were reassessed. Results: Body weight, waist circumference and BMI parameters decreased significantly in all groups. TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β and MMP-9 levels decreased significantly in the WT group. In addition, contrary to a significant elevation in HDL-C, the serum cholesterol, LDL-C and TG levels decreased significantly. Furthermore, leptin, ghrelin and asprosin levels decreased significantly. Serum glucose levels decreased significantly in all groups except for the control. In the WT group, while there was a significant decrease in the levels of serum PL MDA and 8-OHdG, the opposite was true for GSH. Conclusions: The oral consumption of WT, its availability and its potency in obesity treatment and prevention pave the way for further delineation of the mechanisms of actions of its bioactive compounds at the cellular and endocrinological levels. Full article

Microorganisms colonize all barrier tissues and are present on the skin and all mucous membranes from birth. Bacteria have many ways of influencing the host organism, including activation of innate immunity receptors by pathogen-associated molecular patterns and synthesis of various chemical compounds, such as vitamins, short-chain fatty acids, bacteriocins, toxins. Bacteria, using extracellular vesicles, can also introduce high-molecular compounds, such as proteins and nucleic acids, into the cell, regulating the metabolic pathways of the host cells. Epithelial cells and immune cells recognize bacterial bioregulators and, depending on the microenvironment and context, determine the direction and intensity of the immune response. A large number of factors influence the maintenance of symbiotic microflora, the diversity of which protects hosts against pathogen colonization. Reduced bacterial diversity is associated with pathogen dominance and allergic diseases of the skin, gastrointestinal tract, and upper and lower respiratory tract, as seen in atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, food allergies, and asthma. Understanding the multifactorial influence of microflora on maintaining health and disease determines the effectiveness of therapy and disease prevention and changes our food preferences and lifestyle to maintain health and active longevity. Full article

The insulin–heart axis plays a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in insulin-resistant states, including type 2 diabetes mellitus. Insulin resistance disrupts glucose and lipid metabolism, leading to systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and atherogenesis, which contribute to heart failure (HF) and other CVDs. This review was conducted by systematically searching PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for peer-reviewed studies published in the past decade, focusing on therapeutic interventions targeting the insulin–heart axis. Studies were selected based on their relevance to insulin resistance, cardiovascular outcomes, and the efficacy of pharmacologic treatments. Key findings from the review highlight the efficacy of lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes and physical activity, which remain the cornerstone of managing insulin resistance and improving cardiovascular outcomes. Moreover, pharmacologic interventions, such as metformin, sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, have shown efficacy in reducing cardiovascular risk by addressing metabolic dysfunction, reducing inflammation, and improving endothelial function. Furthermore, emerging treatments, such as angiotensin receptor–neprilysin inhibitors, and mechanical interventions like ventricular assist devices offer new avenues for managing HF in insulin-resistant patients. The potential of these therapies to improve left ventricular ejection fraction and reverse pathological cardiac remodeling highlights the importance of early intervention. However, challenges remain in optimizing treatment regimens and understanding the long-term cardiovascular effects of these agents. Future research should focus on personalized approaches that integrate lifestyle and pharmacologic therapies to effectively target the insulin–heart axis and mitigate the burden of cardiovascular complications in insulin-resistant populations. Full article

Background: The association between mortality and heatwaves is well documented. Heatwaves frequency, intensity, and duration increase with global climate change. The most vulnerable group for dying during heatwaves is older people. Knowing which diseases contribute to a higher number of deaths during heatwaves is important for planning appropriate public health preventive measures. Methods: We assessed the short-term association between the number of deaths for older adults (75+ years) and heatwaves in the years 1999 to 2020 in Slovenia. We estimated the relative risks (RR) with a 95% confidence interval for the number of deaths for the observed diagnosis (all causes, circulatory, respiratory) and urban vs. rural areas associated with heatwaves in Slovenia for each year, comparing the number of deaths during heatwaves with reference days. Results: Most years showed no significant increase in deaths during heatwaves for those aged 75 and older. However, in 2006, 2007, 2014, and 2015, there was a significant increase in deaths during heatwaves. For the general population, heatwaves were associated with an increase in deaths due to all causes: 10% more in 2006 and 26% more in both 2007 and 2014. For those aged 75 and older, heatwaves were associated with an increase in deaths due to all causes: 22% more in 2007, 27% more in 2014, and 28% more in 2015. For those aged 75 and older, heatwaves were associated with an increase in deaths due to circulatory system diseases: 25% more in 2006, 33% more in 2007, 30% more in 2014, and 27% more in 2015. Regarding urban vs. rural areas, in 2006 and 2012, the elderly in urban areas were more affected, with 33% and 26% more deaths, respectively. In contrast, in 2007, 2014, and 2015, old age population in rural areas was more affected, with 29%, 26%, and 31% more deaths, respectively. Conclusions: According to the literature data, older adults are most susceptible to the effects of extreme heat due to physiological changes that occur with aging, chronic diseases, certain medications, a sedentary lifestyle, and social isolation. The results of our study will help in planning appropriate preventive public health measures to better protect older adults during the next heatwaves in Slovenia. Full article

This project aims to establish the acceptability and satiety of a hybrid snack containing plant protein and a small percentage of animal protein compared to a meat-based snack. Design: Randomised, crossover, double-blind, controlled post-prandial trial involving 24 participants (18–30 years), with two interventions: (a) a hybrid snack containing plant protein derived from chickpeas and 6.6% lean high-quality pork meat; and (b) a meat-based snack containing 90% lean pork meat. Methods: General, life-style, sensory acceptability questionnaire, and the following laboratory analyses were performed: lipid profile, endocannabinoids, and related compounds. Results: Sensory questionnaires showed in general good acceptability for both bars. Additionally, there was a greater increase in glycemia at 30, 60, and 90 min after consuming the hybrid snack compared to the meat-based snack, with no changes in the lipid profile. Regarding the endocannabinoid compounds and related compounds, the compound N-palmitoleoyl ethanolamine in the acylethanolamide group showed higher levels overall following the consumption of the hybrid snack compared to the meat-based snack, particularly at 2 h. Conclusions: The hybrid snack was associated with changes in endocannabinoid-like compounds. Therefore, it may provide a lasting satiating effect, while complementing the protein profile of plant-based foods with the quality of animal protein. Full article

Introduction: Post-menopausal women living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (WLHIV) face an increased risk of bone fractures due to the relationship between HIV-related factors and menopause. This narrative review aims to summarise the current knowledge about fracture risk among post-menopausal WLHIV in particular looking at hormonal changes, combined antiretroviral therapy (cART), lifestyle factors, and psychosocial implications. We also profiled a summary of the significant, recent studies of post-menopausal WLHIV residing in low-income countries (LIC). Methods: A thorough search of the literature was performed across PubMed, Medline, Scopus, and Google Scholar, focussing on studies published between 2000 and 2024. Inclusion criteria entailed original research, reviews, and meta-analyses addressing bone mineral density (BMD), fracture incidence, and related risk factors in post-menopausal WLHIV. Results: The review identified 223 relevant studies. Post-menopausal WLHIV exhibit significantly lower BMD and higher fracture rates compared to both HIV-negative post-menopausal women and pre-menopausal WLHIV. cART, particularly tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), contributes to reduced BMD. Menopausal status exacerbates this risk through decreased oestrogen levels, leading to increased bone resorption. Moreover, lifestyle choices such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and low physical activity are more prevalent in PWHIV, which further elevates fracture risk. Different psychosocial factors may make WLWHIV more vulnerable at this stage of their life, such as depression, isolation, stigma, and housing and nutritional issues. Women living in LICs face a variety of challenges in accessing HIV care. There are gaps in research related to the prevalence of osteoporosis and bone loss in post-menopausal WLHIV in LICs. Conclusion: Post-menopausal women living with HIV face a significantly higher risk of bone loss and fractures due to the combined effects of HIV and menopause. Antiretroviral therapy (particularly TDF), lifestyle factors, and psychosocial challenges exacerbate this risk. There is a need for careful selection of cART, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and emerging treatments such as Abaloparatide. A holistic approach including lifestyle changes and psychosocial support is crucial to reduce fracture risk in WLHIV, especially in low-income countries. Full article