Search Results (17,006)

Aging is a natural process that is also influenced by some factors like the food someone eats, lifestyle decisions, and impacts on general health. Despite the recognized role of nutrition in modulating the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying aging, there is a lack of comprehensive exploration into potential interventions that can effectively mitigate these effects. In this study, we investigated the potential anti-aging properties of vitamin D by examining its interactions with key molecular targets involved in aging-related pathways. By using molecular docking and dynamics techniques, we evaluate the interactions and stability of vitamins D2 and D3 with key proteins involved in aging pathways, such as SIRT1, mTOR, AMPK, Klotho, AhR, and MAPK. Our results reveal promising binding affinities between vitamin D and SIRT1 forms, with energy values of −48.33 kJ/mol and −45.94 kJ/mol for vitamins D2 and D3, respectively, in aqueous environments. Moreover, molecular dynamics simulations revealed that the vitamin D3–SIRT1 complex exhibited greater stability compared with the vitamin D2–SIRT1 complex. The study calculated the solvation free energy to compare the solubility of vitamins D2 and D3 in water and various organic solvents. Despite their strong interactions with water, both vitamins exhibited low solubility, primarily due to the high energy cost associated with cavity formation in the aqueous environment. Compared with other solvents, water demonstrated particularly low solubility for both vitamins. This suggested that vitamins D2 and D3 preferred binding to aging receptors over dissolving in bulk aqueous environments, supporting their strong therapeutic interactions with these receptors. These findings shed light on the molecular mechanisms underlying vitamin D’s potential anti-aging effects and lay the groundwork for developing nutraceuticals targeting aging and associated diseases. Understanding these mechanisms holds promise for future interventions aimed at promoting healthy aging and enhancing overall well-being. Full article

In surgically treated individuals with surgical stomas, the return to physical activity is an indicator of quality of life that reflects their well-being. With the aim of synthesizing the available evidence regarding the return to physical activity in individuals with surgical stomas, a scoping review was developed following the methodological approach of the Joanna Briggs Institute and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews criteria. Searches were conducted in Medline (PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, Cinahl, and Lilacs, as well as the meta-search engines TripDatabase and Epistemonikos, using MeSH terms. Included studies were written in Spanish, English, Portuguese, and German, without any limitation on the year of publication. A total of n = 15 studies was included (n = 2 qualitative; n = 2 case reports; n = 1 case series; n = 1 cohort; n = 8 cross-sectional; and n = 1 randomized clinical trial), which showed variability in the quality of the designs. The qualitative studies explored themes such as motivation, beliefs about physical activity, and other lifestyle factors. The case reports described physiological, psychological, and functional implications of returning to physical activity for specific individuals after ostomy surgery. Quantitative studies evaluated the effects of different types of physical activity on quality of life and tolerance to physical activity in these individuals, employing various measurement instruments. In conclusion, the evidence on returning to sports and physical activity after stoma surgery is limited and varied. While studies highlight the importance of social support and self-confidence, they generally lack rigor and primarily focus on adults and oncology patients. There is a need for more research to establish clear guidelines on physical activity type, frequency, and intensity to ensure safe and beneficial outcomes for individuals with stomas. Full article

This study aims to explore the factors that influence the well-being situation of doctoral students in education from a qualitative perspective and draws on the ecological systems theory as an overarching framework. A total of 18 doctoral students in education from 3 universities in Hong Kong were interviewed. In line with the ecological systems theory, individual influential factors may embed and interact with all layers of systems (i.e., the microsystem, the mesosystem, the exosystem, the macrosystem, and the chronosystem) surrounding the doctoral students that hinder or boost their well-being, respectively. These six main areas of concern were identified from a thematic analysis of participants’ responses. The study highlighted several salient influential factors of doctoral students’ well-being, such as coping strategies, social relations, and their living and cultural environment. An interactive effect among specific factors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and social movements, was also identified. Findings provide theoretical insights and offer recommendations for improving doctoral students’ well-being. Full article

Drought is a natural phenomenon that has adverse effects on agriculture, the economy, and human well-being. The primary objective of this research was to comprehensively understand the drought conditions in Sistan and Balouchestan Province from 2002 to 2017 from two perspectives: vegetation cover and hydrology. To achieve this goal, the study utilized MODIS satellite data in the first part to monitor vegetation cover as an indicator of agricultural drought. In the second part, GRACE satellite data were employed to analyze changes in groundwater resources as an indicator of hydrological drought. To assess vegetation drought, four indices were used: Vegetation Health Index (VHI), Vegetation Drought Index (VDI), Visible Infrared Drought Index (VSDI), and Temperature Vegetation Drought Index (TVDI). To validate vegetation drought indices, they were compared with Global Land Data Assimilation System (GLDAS) precipitation data. The vegetation indices showed a strong, statistically significant correlation with GLDAS precipitation data in most regions of the province. Among all indices, the VHI showed the highest correlation with precipitation (moderate (0.3–0.7) in 51.7% and strong (≥0.7) in 45.82% of lands). The output of vegetation indices revealed that the study province has experienced widespread drought in recent years. The results showed that the southern and central regions of the province have faced more severe drought classes. In the second part of this research, hydrological drought monitoring was conducted in fifty third-order sub-basins located within the study province using the Total Water Storage (TWS) deficit, Drought Severity, and Total Storage Deficit Index )TSDI Index). Annual average calculations of the TWS deficit over the period from April 2012 to 2016 indicated a substantial depletion of groundwater reserves in the province, amounting to a cumulative loss of 12.2 km³ Analysis results indicate that drought severity continuously increased in all study basins until the end of the study period. Studies have shown that all the studied basins are facing severe and prolonged water scarcity. Among the 50 studied basins, the Rahmatabad basin, located in the semi-arid northern regions of the province, has experienced the most severe drought. This basin has experienced five drought events, particularly one lasting 89 consecutive months and causing a reduction of more than 665.99 km^3. of water in month 1, placing it in a critical condition. On the other hand, the Niskoofan Chabahar basin, located in the tropical southern part of the province near the Sea of Oman, has experienced the lowest reduction in water volume with 10 drought events and a decrease of approximately 111.214 km^3. in month 1. However, even this basin has not been spared from prolonged droughts. Analysis of drought index graphs across different severity classes confirmed that all watersheds experienced drought conditions, particularly in the later years of this period. Data analysis revealed a severe water crisis in the province. Urgent and coordinated actions are needed to address this challenge. Transitioning to drought-resistant crops, enhancing irrigation efficiency, and securing water rights are essential steps towards a sustainable future. Full article

This study aims to identify how the health and well-being of public servants are promoted and managed at the Federal University of Technology—Paraná (UTFPR). The Integrated Subsystem for Attention to the Health of Public Servants (SIASS), established by the federal government in 2009, is an initiative that integrates health actions, work safety, and social assistance. This qualitative study utilized the analysis of institutional documents and semi-structured interviews with managers involved in SIASS implementation at the UTFPR. The analysis reveals that, despite the creation of the SIASS, the UTFPR faces challenges such as resource scarcity, reliance on procurement processes, and a reactive rather than preventive approach to occupational health issues. The structural diversity across campuses and the lack of systematic evaluation of working conditions further limit the effectiveness of policies. It is recommended that the UTFPR adopt a more integrated, data-driven, and proactive approach to occupational health management. Strengthening interinstitutional partnerships, optimizing resource allocation, and developing continuous evaluation systems are essential steps to ensure a work environment that effectively promotes the health and well-being of its employees. Full article

Following Wright’s theory, the process of acceptance of disability helps persons with an acquired disability to change their attitudes toward it. Consequently, a sense of self-satisfaction was developed, a de-emphasis on disability salience was placed, and compensatory behavioral qualities were acquired. Together, these factors promote an individual’s adjustment according to disability-related strengths and difficulties. Our cross-sectional study examines how acceptance of disability influences flourishing, characterized by high well-being and low distress. Due to the exploratory nature of the study, two research questions were formulated: Would each factor of acceptance of disability positively predict each dimension of well-being? (RQ1); Would each factor of acceptance of disability negatively predict distress? (RQ2). Additionally, we considered gender effects. 107 Italian adults with acquired physical disabilities [M_year (SD) = 48.12 (14.87)] filled out an e-survey. Measures of acceptance of disability, well-being, and distress were used. The results indicate that self-satisfaction is a key predictor of flourishing while de-emphasizing disability salience only predicts purpose in life. Compensatory behavioral qualities predicted personal growth, positive relationships, life purposes, and self-acceptance. Gender did not significantly affect outcomes. Despite being preliminary, these initial results support the acceptance of disability as a personal resource for promoting flourishing. They suggest the potential for interventions to help individuals with disabilities process grief and accept their new self-representation. Full article

The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of different exercise interventions involving chronic exercise (endurance and strength groups) carried out in physical education on physical fitness and cognitive functions. A group of 72 adolescent students from the city of Melilla (Spain) aged between 13 and 17 years old (M = 15.38, SD = 0.78) participated in the current study. A D2 attention test was used in order to analyze selective attention and concentration. Physical fitness was measured through the ALPHA-Fitness battery. The analysis taken indicated a significant relationship between physical fitness level, attention and concentration. Moreover, the intervention resulted in significant reductions in body weight and waist circumference in the resistance and strength groups compared to the control group, indicating positive effects on body composition. All the groups demonstrated enhanced aerobic capacity, as evidenced by improvements in VO₂ max after the intervention period. Furthermore, significant enhancements in most attentional measures (TR, TA, O, C, TOT, CON and TR−) were observed across all the groups, with an additional temporary improvement in TR+ for the strength group. Our findings suggest that an 8-week school-based exercise intervention, regardless of specific exercise type (resistance or strength), can positively impact body composition, aerobic capacity and attention in adolescents. These results emphasize the importance of integrating physical activity programs into school environments to promote holistic health and well-being in this population. Future research should focus on elucidating the underlying mechanisms of these effects and exploring the long-term benefits of such interventions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Physiotherapists face significant challenges in managing chronic pain; a complex condition best addressed through a biopsychosocial (BPS) approach. Although substantial evidence exists globally, research specific to Spain remains limited. This study explores the experiences and challenges Spanish physiotherapists encounter in integrating BPS elements across public and private healthcare settings. Methods: Semi-structured interviews with 12 experienced physiotherapists were conducted, using a qualitative approach with purposive sampling and reflexive thematic analysis. The analysis, grounded in a constructivist/interpretivist framework, allowed themes to emerge naturally from the data, supported by relevant quotes. Results: Three primary themes were identified: (1) challenges in implementing the BPS approach, including patient resistance and limited training; (2) facilitators for adopting the BPS model, such as multidisciplinary support and positive patient outcomes; and (3) emotional and psychological aspects of the physiotherapists. The findings highlight the complexities of chronic pain management in physiotherapy, emphasizing the need for enhanced psychological training, integrated multidisciplinary care, early diagnosis, and effective family involvement. These insights are critical for improving both patient care and physiotherapist well-being. Conclusions: This study provides valuable guidance for future strategies, focusing on educational enhancements, multidisciplinary collaboration, healthcare policy reform, and emotional support for physiotherapists within the Spanish healthcare context. Full article

The Gulf of Mannar, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, faces severe overfishing and habitat degradation threats. In this study, we investigate the pivotal role of ecosystem services in sustaining local livelihoods and overall well-being. By conducting a comprehensive survey of 480 respondents across two districts, we gathered extensive data on demographics, livelihoods, fishing practices, reliance on ecosystem services, and community management participation. The analysis reveals a critical dependence on the Gulf’s resources (income, food security, traditions) with gender disparities (men fish, women in pre-/post-harvest). Still, fishing is only allowed in the 10 km buffer zone (not the core zone). The findings emphasize the promise of community-based strategies, such as Marine Protected Areas and reviving co-management committees, for achieving sustainable fisheries management. However, we also identify gaps, including the need for more nuanced well-being indicators and improved models for community management participation. To address these challenges, we advocate for sustainable fishing practices, tackling social inequities, especially gender disparities in resource access and decision-making, and investing in fishing communities’ healthcare, education, and social safety nets. Promoting alternative livelihoods can alleviate pressure on fish stocks, and empowering local communities through capacity building and community-based management initiatives is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Gulf of Mannar ecosystem and the well-being of its dependent communities. This multifaceted approach holds significant promise for balancing ecological health with human prosperity. Full article

Within traditional drug and alcohol (D&A) treatment services, the majority of those accessing support are of white ethnicity, with only a small percentage of people from the British South Asian (BSA) and Muslim community engaging in treatment services. This paper aims to explore perceived barriers to accessing traditional D&A services within the British South Asian and Muslim communities, based on qualitative data from interviews with family members and a practitioner. Qualitative data were obtained via 11 semi-structured interviews involving a practitioner (n = 1), and family and friends (n = 10) of those with historic and current D&A use in the community. Reflexive thematic analysis revealed four themes: (1) awareness of drug and alcohol use in the community, (2) drug and alcohol use as a taboo topic and the impact of admitting use, (3) knowledge of services for treatment, (4) how to increase awareness and accessibility of treatment. There was an increasing awareness of D&A use in the BSA and Muslim community. Despite this, limited conversations and misconceptions around D&A use and recovery led to those using D&A and their family members feeling stigmatised within their community and unable to seek support. This paper concludes by recommending increased communication between the BSA and Muslim communities and D&A treatment services to ensure accessibility of treatment by improving cultural competency. Full article

Background: Limited information is available on factors that affect the burden tinnitus. The aim of this study is to investigate the association between tinnitus burden and demographic, patient-specific and tinnitus characteristics. Secondly, it was examined which variables could predict a change in tinnitus burden after 12 months. Method: In a prospective Dutch cohort of 383 tinnitus patients seeking medical help, tinnitus complaints, demographics, tinnitus characteristics, psychological wellbeing and quality of life were assessed using an online self-report survey at three timepoints (start, 6 months, 12 months). The main outcome variables for tinnitus burden are the Tinnitus Questionnaire (TQ) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for tinnitus burden and loudness. Results: Several variables (time, sex, education level, life events, anxiety and depression, sleep issues, tinnitus loudness, hearing impairment and treatment) were significantly associated with tinnitus burden. Additionally, tinnitus burden after 12 months was associated with anxiety, following treatment, sleep issues, negative life events and hearing impairment (increase) and anxiety, total of life events and environmental quality of life (decrease) predicted the tinnitus burden after 12 months. Conclusions: Several factors, such as education level, life events, psychological factors and sleep quality, are related to tinnitus burden and can predict tinnitus burden over time. Full article

The concept of the Thai family has shifted from the traditional family to families of various forms, such as single-parent families, same-sex families, skipped-generation families, and one-person households, which affects not only mental health, but future relationships of the children. This research aimed to analyze the factors that contribute to family strengths in the context of Generation Alpha and develop a measurement model tailored to a Thai context. The sample consisted of parents and caregivers of Generation Alpha, divided into two sections, with 521 participants for exploratory factor analysis and 508 participants for confirmatory factor analysis. Using stratified random sampling, data were collected via questionnaires distributed across four regions of Thailand. The discrimination index ranged from 0.280–0.896, with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.952. The results revealed a measurement model consisting of five key factors contributing to family strengths. The factor with the highest score was positive relationships, with a factor loading of 0.92. Additional factors included technology and media literacy, parental roles, good attributes, and mental immunity, with a factor loading of 0.80, 0.74, 0.55, and 0.44, respectively. The measurement model of family strengths for Generation Alpha in the Thai context was found to be consistent with the empirical data. These findings suggest that understanding these family strengths can significantly enhance the well-being of both Generation Alpha and their family members. Full article

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of incorporating natural mineral waters (NMW), including thermal water (TW) and bottled mineral water (BMW), into bread (‘biju’ type) to enhance its mineral content and explore their impacts on physicochemical, technological, biochemical, and chemical composition. NMW, rich in sodium, potassium, and magnesium, resulted in bread formulations with higher contents of these minerals and greater total mineral levels, thus potentially enriching food products. Proximate composition analysis showed no significant differences in moisture, proteins, carbohydrates, and energy, except for lipids and soluble sugars. Texture analysis revealed that water type influenced textural properties, with salt content affecting hardness, springiness, and cohesiveness. Viability analysis of Saccharomyces cerevisiae showed consistent results across formulations, suggesting water pH and mineral content did not significantly affect fermentation. In addition, bread formulations without added salt were developed to assess the potential of sodium-rich NMW as a natural source of salt. For these samples, and considering the parameters assessed, except for salt and sodium content, the differences observed were slight compared to salt-added formulations, highlighting NMW’s potential to produce low-salt bread. These findings not only enhance the value of local resources but also offer an innovative and sustainable strategy for utilizing NMW springs across Europe. Full article

This paper presents the development of a vital sign monitoring system designed specifically for professional athletes, with a focus on runners. The system aims to enhance athletic performance and mitigate health risks associated with intense training regimens. It comprises a wearable glove that monitors key physiological parameters such as heart rate, blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), body temperature, and gyroscope data used to calculate linear speed, among other relevant metrics. Additionally, environmental variables, including ambient temperature, are tracked. To ensure accuracy, the system incorporates an onboard filtering algorithm to minimize false positives, allowing for timely intervention during instances of physiological abnormalities. The study demonstrates the system’s potential to optimize performance and protect athlete well-being by facilitating real-time adjustments to training intensity and duration. The experimental results show that the system adheres to the classical “220-age” formula for calculating maximum heart rate, responds promptly to predefined thresholds, and outperforms a moving average filter in noise reduction, with the Gaussian filter delivering superior performance. Full article

The primary objectives of transportation system development in European countries include improving transport efficiency, enhancing national economic competitiveness, and promoting sustainable mobility. A key aspect of achieving these goals is the evaluation of transport externalities, particularly external accident costs, which is critical for ensuring the economic and social sustainability of road transport development. This study comprehensively evaluates external road accident costs and proposes an innovative approach to internalizing these costs through a cost–benefit analysis (CBA). By integrating these external costs into CBA, policymakers can better understand the societal impact of road safety investments, allowing for more informed decisions regarding measures to reduce road accidents and fatalities. This paper also explores the role of specific safety investments, such as installing vehicle restrain systems (VRS), buffers, and terminals on the national road network, as well as installing speed cameras, in reducing accidents and mitigating external costs. The findings highlight road safety measures’ importance in enhancing economic efficiency and social well-being, providing a solid foundation for the sustainable and efficient development of transportation systems. Full article