Active Young People Research Articles

Complex dynamics of climate emotions among environmentally active Finnish and American young people

Climate emotions have become an increasingly salient issue since the beginning of the 2000s. This paper draws on data from in-depth interviews from the United States (USA) and Finland to provide insight into the complex dynamics of climate emotions in 23 environmentally active young people in these two countries. The analysis centers on two main themes: (a) complex dynamics of climate emotions and (b) identities and felt social expectations. The results support recent research about the importance of anger, grief, and guilt as very common climate emotions among active people, although a broad range of emotions was recognized by the participants. Some observations were made about the role of cultural factors in these two countries. Through this analysis, this article contributes to the understanding about the ways in which identities and felt social expectations shape climate emotions, including feelings of inadequacy and obligation. Analysis of the experiences of this limited number of young people shows the prevalence of feelings of inadequacy and thus supports the recent arguments about the need to provide young people tools to set their responsibility in context, in order to avoid negative consequences of the felt pressures.

Young People in Iranian Socio-Political Landscape of the Modernization Era: 20th –21st Centuries

The article, based on materials from various sources and studies in Russian, English, French, and Persian, considers for the first time in modern Iranian studies in Russia the place and role of youth in the socio-political life of Iran in 20th–21st centuries. This period of the country's history was marked by a consecutive modernization of all the foundations of the state and society, in which the author identifies three stages: the struggle for the restoration of sovereignty and choosing ways to renew the country (1905-early 60s); modernization via “revolution from above” (early 60s – 1979); systemic crisis, social explosion, change of the State system; continuation of modernization under external pressure (1979 – early 20s of the XXI century). Contradictions and conflicts generated by this long and uneven process stimulate mass involvement of the younger generation of Iranians in political struggle, where they generally choose the most radical ways of civic self-realization. They played a prominent, sometimes crucial part in major events of Iran’s modern history, such as the movement for natinalization of the Iranian petroleum Industry (1949–1953); engagement in several reforms of 1960s–70s; revolutionary actions that brought to an end the Iranian monarchy; the Iran-Iraqi War. The young people’s potential for political activism to a considerable extent is due to their large and steadily growing share of population and relatively high level of education and professional competence of many among them. The literate and active young people still remain both the main generator of opposition sentiments and а basic resource of Iran’s dynamic development.

Trajetórias juvenis e a construção de intelectuais orgânicos/as ,

Abstract Based on the follow-up of a young woman, we sought to understand how and what experiences contribute to the formation of more socially active young people - from a Gramscian perspective, organic intellectuals. The question is, therefore, which experiences have or have had an influence on the lives of young people that contribute or have contributed to constructing processes towards social emancipation? To this end, an individual territorial follow-up—a social technology developed by social occupational therapy—was used, resulting in descriptions and analyses of situations so that this young woman could engender movements of catharsis, highlighting her participation and protagonism in university extension actions, virtual environments, student guild events, and activities linked to a high school research program. It is expected that this study will provide references for strategies to strengthen youth networks and foster the creation and expansion of different collective spaces where young people move about, whether in person or virtually so that they can cope with the vulnerabilities that surround their everyday life.

Relationship of lumbar-hip kinematics during trunk flexion and sex, body mass index, and self-reported energy expenditure: a cross-sectional analysis

Purpose Physical activity (PA) is a well-known, simple and effective preventive and therapeutic intervention for low back pain (LBP). In spite of the growing interest in active lifestyles and its benefits, more needs to be known about the relationship between energy expenditure, body mass and lumbar-pelvic kinematics during the forward bending movement in a group of young asymptomatic people who met PA guidelines. Young people can be identified as a future risk group of civilisation diseases and lumbar-hip kinematics can be considered as a predictor of LBP occurrence. The aim of this study was to identify the association of sex, self-reported energy expenditure, body mass index, and lumbar-hip kinematics in young people. Methods Sixty-four students at pre-employment stage participated in the study. They declared moderate-to-high PA and activity-induced energy expenditure (AEE) was self-reported. Kinematic data of the lumbar spine, pelvis, and hip were collected during forward bending using a 3D motion capture system. Results Sex was found to be associated with pelvis (β=-0.38 p=0.002) and lumbar mobility (β=0.49, p<0.001) during forward bending and BMI was related only to lumbar mobility (β=-0.41, p=0.001). Recreation AEE significantly predicted hip flexion mobility (β =0.38, p=0.002). Conclusions This study showed that among a sample of physically active young people, BMI, self-reported AEE, and sex can partially predict lumbar-hip kinematics during trunk flexion. Recreational PA can be regarded as improving hip mobility and thus making forward bending more effective and less prone to injury.

Gender differentials of contraceptive knowledge and use among youth - evidence from demographic and health survey data in selected African countries.

Improving family planning demand and uptake has both social and economic benefits, including increasing education attainment, reducing poverty and increased participation in the labour force. Also, contraceptive use remains a key driver in Africa to facilitate demographic transition and the demographic dividend. However, numerous challenges have prevented the take-up of contraception across the continent. This is more so the case among African youth that present the lowest levels of contraceptive use in sub-Saharan Africa. Therefore, the objective of this research was to examine gender differences in contraceptive use and knowledge of sexually active young people (15-24 years) in sub-Saharan African countries. This study used data from nine countries in sub-Saharan Africa through the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHSs) of Benin, Democratic Republic of Congo, Lesotho, Namibia, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa and Zimbabwe. Data analysis entailed frequency distributions and cross-tabulations to describe the gender-differentiated levels of contraceptive use and knowledge among youth. Additionally, logistic regression showed the gender-specific predictors of contraceptive use for African youth. Our findings present the gender-specific predictors of contraceptive use and will contribute to policy and programme formulation for African countries and organisations that promote contraceptive use.

What is the relationship between the presence of hip/groin pain and hip range of motion in active, young adults?

Introduction: The relationship between the presence of hip/groin pain and hip range of motion (ROM) in active young people is currently unclear. With a cross-sectional cohort study design, we aimed to explore the relationship between hip/groin pain (present or absent) and hip joint ROM in sub-elite football players accounting for cam morphology, sex and age.

ISPAD Clinical Practice Consensus Guidelines 2022: Diabetes in adolescence.

ISPAD Clinical Practice Consensus Guidelines 2022: Diabetes in adolescence.

Effects of Sibship Size and Birth Order on Sexual and Reproductive Health among Sexually Active Young People in China.

Only children are more prevalent among young people today in China due to the globally renowned one-child policy since the 1980s, but the association between sibship size and the sexual activity of youth needs to be further clarified. The aim of this study was to explore the effect of siblings, being an only child, and birth order on the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) of young people. Data were utilized from 11,044 sexually active college/university students who participated in a large-scale national survey. Overall, numerous undergraduates nationally identified as only children (43.5%); for non-only children, 32.4% were oldest children, 10.5% were middle children, and 13.6% were youngest children. For both sexes, having more siblings was related to having risky sexual debuts and less contraceptive use. Furthermore, young men and young people born in rural areas with more siblings were more likely to have severe health outcomes, such as unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection(s). Finally, being an only child protected youth from risky sexual behaviors and adverse health outcomes. For students with siblings, middle children were more inclined to risky sexual initiation and low frequency of contraception compared to first-borns. Our analysis provides the first evidence of one child and sibling effects on SRH in China and has significant implications for promoting SRH in the context of encouraging childbirth.

Building active youth in post-Soviet countries through civic education programmes: evidence from Poland

ABSTRACT This study examines democracy promotion efforts that target young people in post-Soviet countries. Specifically we assess the effectiveness of a civic education programme in Poland in improving attitudes toward democracy and self-perceptions of political efficacy. The analysis of quasi-experimental data reveals that young citizens from post-Soviet states (Belarus, Moldova, Russia, and Ukraine) were more likely to show greater support of democratic institutions, hold democratic attitudes, and perceive themselves as having political efficacy. However, we interpret the results with caution as changes in the attitudes were not substantial. This may be attributed to the fact that democracy education programmes attract already politically and socially active young people.

Risky sexual behaviours and HIV testing among young people in Ghana: evidence from the 2017/2018 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey

BackgroundYoung people have a higher chance of experimenting with sex before marriage, thus they engage in risky sexual behaviours that predispose them to HIV infections. The objective of this study was to assess the relationship between engaging in risky sexual behaviours and the uptake of HIV testing services among young people in Ghana.MethodsWe analysed secondary data from the 2017/2018 Ghana Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, which collected data on population and health indicators across the previous ten regions of Ghana, using a Computer Personal Assisted Interviewing application. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square test and Binomial Logistic regression.ResultsSeventy-nine per cent (79%) of young women and 68% of young men did not use a condom during last sexual intercourse. In addition, 68% of young women and 87% of young men had not tested for HIV. Young women (AOR = 2.19; 95% CI 1.56–3.07) and young men (AOR = 3.38; 95% CI 1.18–9.64) aged 20–24 years had a higher likelihood of being tested for HIV compared to those aged 15–19 years. Young women with junior high school education (AOR = 2.03; 95% CI 1.08–3.81) were more likely to test for HIV compared with those who had pre-primary/no formal education. In addition, young women who were never married or in a union (AOR = 0.39; 95% CI 0.27–0.56) had 61% of reduced odds of being tested for HIV compared with those who were currently married or in a union. There was no significant association between risky sexual behaviours and HIV testing (p > 0.05).ConclusionThis study demonstrated that condom use among sexually active young people was low. The uptake of HIV testing services was below expectation. Age, educational status, marital status and exposure to the mass media were the salient factors influencing the uptake of HIV testing among young people. Stakeholders should implement interventions to help increase the uptake of HIV testing and condom use among young people in Ghana.

Effectiveness of photodynamic therapy with 5-aminolevulinic acid for Bowenoid papulosis: A retrospective study with long-term follow-up

BackgroundBowenoid papulosis (BP) is a rare infectious skin disease that occurs in sexually active young people. BP is associated with human papillomavirus (HPV)16 and 18 infections, spreads through sexual contact, and tends to become cancerous. Currently, there are different BP treatment methods, and few reports on the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) (ALA-PDT).We compared the differences in the clearance and recurrence rates of BP between the ALA-PDT group and other groups, and explored methods to improve clinical effects and reduce lesion recurrence by combining clinical retrospective data. MethodsWe enrolled patients who were diagnosed with bowel papulosis" between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2020. Patient information, such as ID number, hospitalization number, admission time, name, age, gender, telephone number, admission record, discharge record, outpatient medical history, HPV type analysis, histopathological examination, and treatment plan were recorded. Outcomes were obtained and recorded through outpatient visits, telephone, and online follow-ups from patients who had reached the treatment endpoint. We compared and evaluated the differences in lesion clearance rate, lesion recurrence rate, and patient satisfaction between the ALA-PDT group and other groups using statistical analysis. ResultsThe lesion clearance rate of the ALA-PDT group was significantly higher than that of the control group, the lesion recurrence rate was lower than that of the control group, and patient satisfaction was higher than that of the control group. The lesion clearance rate of the ALA-PDT group was higher than that of the microwave and radiofrequency groups, the lesion recurrence rate of the ALA-PDT group was significantly lower than that of the microwave and radiofrequency groups, and patient satisfaction was significantly higher than that of the microwave and radiofrequency groups. In the lesions of patients with BP, in addition to HPV16 and HPV18 types, other types were also detected, and most of them were mixed types of HPV infection. Age, sex, and duration of disease were not risk factors that affected BP recurrence. ConclusionsALA-PDT for BP has the advantages of high lesion clearance rate, low lesion recurrence rate, and high patient satisfaction. ALA-PDT is worthy of recommendation as a preferred treatment plan for the treatment of BP.

The incidence of complications after derotational femoral and/or tibial osteotomies in patellofemoral disorders in adolescents and active young patients: a systematic review with meta-analysis.

To quantify the risk of perioperative and postoperative complications of derotational femoral and/or tibial osteotomies in patellofemoral disorders (anterior knee pain and patellar instability) in adolescents and active young patients. MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane and Scopus databases were used to identify studies published from database inception and June 30, 2021. Meta-analysis was performed to pool the rates of complications related to femur and tibia osteotomies. Values of proportion of complications were expressed as proportions and 95% confidence intervals (CI) and then transformed using a Freeman Tukey double arcsine transformation. Meta-regression was used to explore factors that potentially may influence on heterogeneity such as year of publication, quality of the included studies and site of the osteotomy. The 22 studies identified included a total of 648 derotational osteotomies in 494 patients. Studies consisted of 20 case series (non-comparative) and 2 comparative observational non-randomized cohorts. Tibial osteotomies showed higher risk of complications than femoral osteotomies (random pooled prevalence 9%; 95% CI 4-15% versus 1%; 95% CI 0-5%, respectively, p < 0.01). The meta-regression analysis of the articles showed that the only parameters responsible of the variance in number of complications were the osteotomy site. Derotational femoral and/or tibial osteotomy is a safe surgical procedure in the treatment of patellofemoral disorders (anterior knee pain and patellar instability) in adolescents and active young people. IV.

Factors Associated with Condom Use Among Out-of-School Young People on Anti-Retroviral Therapy in Central Uganda

IntroductionEvidence is lacking about condom use among out-of-school young people (OS-YP) on anti-retroviral therapy (ART). This study aimed to understand the factors associated with consistent condom use among OS-YP aged 15–24 years old on ART in Central Uganda.MethodsThis was a quantitative descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among 357 OS-YP on ART from seven districts of Central Uganda. Interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on consistent condom use in the past 12 months from OS-YP, aged 15–24 years, who did not intend to have children in that period. Consistent condom use by participants was considered to be the routine (always) use of condoms during sexual intercourse in the past 12 months. Frequencies and percentages were used for univariate analysis, while Pearson’s Chi-square was used to determine bivariate association and logistic regression analysis for multivariable association with consistent condom use, at 95% confidence level.ResultsOf the 357 sexually active OS-YP on ART, 73% were females. The age range of study participants was between 15 and 24 years old (with a mean ± standard deviation of 20±3 years) where 55% were aged 20 to 24 years, while their sexual partners were aged ≥25 years, and 49% of respondents did not use condoms. Primary school education level, being employed, rural residence, and receiving ART from health facilities with a perceived adequate number of health workers were strongly associated with consistent condom use with the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 0.2 (95% CI 0.07–0.69) level of education; 2.12 (95% CI 1.06–4.26) employment status; 2.46 (95% CI 1.19–5.10) residence and 6.08 (95% CI 1.05–35.22) perceived level of staffing at the health facility, respectively.ConclusionEfforts to increase consistent condom use should focus on recruiting more providers in health facilities to intensify condom use sensitization among sexually active young people on ART in the context of HIV epidemic control.

The effect of combining vibratory platform and unstable footwear on static balance in active young people

Vibratory platforms (VPs) and unstable footwear (UF) have both shown benefits on balance in some populations. However, there is no evidence about the combined effects of using UF while training on an VP in healthy and physically active young people. We aimed to evaluate the effects of wearing unstable footwear (UF) while training on a whole-body VP on balance in healthy, physically active young people. 23 participants were randomized into groups assigned UF (n = 11) or stable footwear (SF; n = 12). Both groups followed the same training program on an VP with the assigned footwear type twice a week for 12 weeks. The training consisted of performing 8 isometric exercises for progressively longer periods and higher oscillation amplitudes (15–60 s, 1–3 mm), at a fixed vibration frequency (20 Hz). The main outcomes were the antero-posterior and medio-lateral velocities of the center of pressure (COP) recorded using a plantar pressure corridor at baseline, post-treatment and 1-month follow-up. We found a statistically significant difference in the antero-posterior velocity during the monopodal test in the UF group between the different time-points (χ2(2) = 13.282, p = 0.001). Mediolateral COP velocity ranking during the bipodal test was lower for UF than for SF group (U = 19.50, z = − 2.86, p = 0.003) at follow-up. The traditional vibratory platform training does not seem to be effective to improve static balance in physically active young people, however, adding UF provided slightly greater effect.

Investigación sobre el diseño y la evaluación de las campañas de prevención en salud sexual dirigidas a jóvenes en España desde 1987 a 2016

IntroductionNew HIV diagnoses and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to be a public health problem in Spain. Since the beginning of HIV infection in our country, prevention campaigns have been developed by the Health Services regarding sexual and reproductive health. Several authors warn about the poor evaluation of these campaigns. ObjectiveTo evaluate the design and evaluation strategies of the sexual health campaigns developed in Spain from 1987 to 2016. MethodsObservational epidemiological study based on a detailed retrospective collection of data obtained from the National AIDS Plan, official agencies and Health Services about the design and evaluation of developed sexual health campaigns. Statistical analysis was performed using UNAIDS indicators system. Results82 campaigns have been developed since 1987, 27 have been aimed at young people. In 100% of campaigns aimed at young people, general information about HIV infection and the promotion of condom use has been addressed; however, other issues about risky sexual behavior have virtually not been included. The prevention of pregnancy in young people is present in less than 25% of campaigns. The quantity of planning and evaluation reports of the available campaigns is very low. ConclusionThe data indicate the need to improve actions aimed at sexually active young people, with more planned and evaluated actions for regarding UNAIDS criteria and efficacy indicators.

Voluntary HIV Counselling and Testing Amongst Trainee Nurses and Midwives in Ghana and their Perception of Disclosure of HIV Positive Status to Partners

Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) is the best strategy for a successful HIV prevention, care, and support service implementation among HIV-negative and positive individuals. VCT is also recognized as a critical component in the reduction of risk among sexually active young people. This study aims to assess the voluntary HIV counseling, testing, and utilization amongst student nurses and midwives in Ghana and their perception of the disclosure of HIV-positive status to partners. This study used a cross-sectional quantitative descriptive survey amongst 98 nursing and midwifery students at the Nursing and Midwifery Training College, Koforidua. A simple random sampling was used in selecting the participants. Data collection was done using a structured questionnaire. Females dominated the study with the majority of respondents being single. VCT uptake among the respondents was low. Only 26.5% had ever undertaken VCT. It was observed that their willingness to accept VCT does not translate into actual testing. The majority (83%) of respondents perceived that HIV-infected persons should disclose their status to a sexual partner. Fear of stigma (96.0%), fear of loss of friends (98.0%), and fear of being abused (88.8%) were identified as the barriers to HIV status disclosure. To promote VCT services among trainees, these services need to be periodically included in school activities. A comprehensive VCT training module needs to be included in the school curriculum. More emphasis should be placed on the benefits of VCT so that students will understand the importance of implementing VCT services.

Associations of Nutritional Behavior and Gut Microbiota with the Risk of COVID-19 in Healthy Young Adults in Poland.

The numerous consequences of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in healthy young people and the lack of clarity as to the long-term disease outcomes have spurred the search for risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 infection. We aimed to evaluate the associations of nutritional behaviors, gut microbiota, and physical activity with the risk of COVID-19 in healthy young nonobese people. Data on body composition, anthropometric measurements, physical activity, dietary intake, and gut microbiota were obtained from 95 adults (mean age, 34.66 ± 5.76 years). A balanced diet rich in vegetables and fruit, including nuts, wholegrain cereal products, and legumes, covers the need for vitamins and minerals. Such a diet can be an effective measure to reduce the risk of COVID-19 in nonobese healthy physically active young people with normal immune function. People with balanced diet and an average daily consumption of >500 g of vegetables and fruit and >10 g of nuts had an 86% lower risk of COVID-19 compared with those whose diet was not balanced and who consumed lower amounts of these products. It is well documented that proper nutrition, physical activity, and maintenance of normal weight facilitate good health by ensuring optimal immune function. The beneficial effects of these interventions should be strongly emphasized during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Identify Key Determinants of Contraceptive Use for Sexually Active Young People: A Hybrid Ensemble of Machine Learning Methods.

Sexually active young people face an increasing public health burden of unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases due to improper contraception. However, environmental and social factors related to young people’s contraception remain unclear. To identify the key factors, we applied ensemble machine learning methods to the data of 12,280 heterosexual Chinese college students who reported sexual intercourse experience in the National College Student Survey on Sexual and Reproductive Health in 2020 (NCSS-SRH 2020). In the order of variable importance, convenient access to contraceptives, certain attitudes towards sex, sexual health knowledge level, being an only-child, and purchasing a bachelor’s or master’s degree were positively associated with a high frequency of contraceptive use. In contrast, smoking, free access to contraceptives, a specific attitude towards marriage, and negotiation with a sexual partner were negatively associated with a higher frequency of contraceptive use. Our analysis provides insights into young people’s contraceptive use under a typically conservative culture of sexuality. Compared to previous studies, we thoroughly investigated internal and external factors that might impact young people’s decision on contraception while having sex. Under a conservative culture of sexuality, the effects of the external factors on young people’s contraception may outweigh those of the internal factors.

Are children at schools registered to The Daily Mile™ more physically active?

Abstract Background The Daily Mile (TDM) is among the most popular school-based running programmes recommended globally by governments and the WHO to meet the shortfalls in children's physical activity. In England, it has been adopted by 1 in 5 primary schools. However, its impact on children's physical activity has not been assessed at scale. We aimed to compare a)minutes (mins) of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in and outside school hours and b)meeting physical activity guidelines in primary school children in England, comparing those in schools registered with TDM with those that were not. Methods This was a cross-sectional study. We used self-reported data of 49,561 English primary school children(5-11 years) from the Active Lives Children and Young People Survey and TDM registration data of their school. We compared mins of MVPA in and outside school hours between children in TDM-registered and non-registered schools using a multilevel zero-inflated negative binomial model; and the differences in the likelihood of meeting physical activity guidelines based on TDM registration with a multilevel logistic regression model. All models included a random effect for school and adjusted for potential confounders. Results Children attending TDM-registered schools reported an extra 36 mins of MVPA a week overall, including 10 additional mins (95%CI:3,16) MVPA/week during school hours and 26 additional (95%CI:4,44) mins MVPA/week outside school hours. Children in TDM-registered schools were 6% more likely to meet physical activity guidelines compared to those who were not(RR:1.06 (95%CI:1.02,1.11)). Conclusions Children in primary schools registered to TDM report more physical activity that is not compensated for outside school hours. However, the absolute differences fall considerably short of international guidelines across the whole child population. Therefore, a whole school and systems-based approach is required, embedding school-based running programmes. Key messages Children in schools registered to TDM report more MVPA overall, inside, and outside school hours; suggesting no compensation of activity in those who are registered. TDM is a potential solution to increase children’s physical activity during the school day.

Self-Powered Load Sensing Circuitry for Total Knee Replacement.

There has been a significant increase in the number of total knee replacement (TKR) surgeries over the past few years, particularly among active young and elderly people suffering from knee pain. Continuous and optimal monitoring of the load on the knee is highly desirable for designing more reliable knee implants. This paper focuses on designing a smart knee implant consisting of a triboelectric energy harvester and a frontend electronic system to process the harvested signal for monitoring the knee load. The harvester produces an AC signal with peak voltages ranging from 10 V to 150 V at different values of knee cyclic loads. This paper demonstrates the measurement results of a PCB prototype of the frontend electronic system fabricated to verify the functionality and feasibility of the proposed approach for a small range of cycling load. The frontend electronic system consists of a voltage processing unit to attenuate high peak voltages, a rectifier and a regulator to convert the input AC signal into a stabilized DC signal. The DC voltage signal provides biasing for the delta-sigma analog-to-digital converter (ADC). Thus, the output of the triboelectric harvester acts as both the power signal that is rectified/regulated and data signal that is digitized. The power consumption of the proposed PCB design is approximately 5.35 μW. Next, the frontend sensor circuitry is improved to accommodate a wider range of cyclic load. These results demonstrate that triboelectric energy harvesting is a promising technique for self-monitoring the load inside knee implants.