Habitual Activity Research Articles

Long-term survival after coronary artery bypass grafting comparing bilateral versus single internal mammary artery in a women cohort

Abstract Introduction Although neutral results from the ART randomized controlled trial, observational studies have been supporting better survival after bilateral internal mammary artery (BIMA) vs single internal mammary artery (SIMA) coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). However, for some specific subgroups, like women patients, more doubts remain about BIMA benefits. Aim To compare long-term survival and early results in women after SIMA vs BIMA. Methods Longitudinal, retrospective, single-center study including consecutive women with at least 2 left-coronary system (LCS) vessel disease who underwent primary isolated CABG with at least 1 internal mammary artery (IMA) conduit and a minimum of 2 conduits targeting the LCS, between 2004-2014. Emergent or salvage surgeries, on-pump beating-heart, BIMA in which 1 IMA targeted the right coronary artery territory were excluded. The primary outcome was all-causes mortality (checked on February 2023). Time-to-event outcomes were studied using Kaplan-Meier Curves, Log-Rank test and multivariable Cox Regression. Median follow-up was 11 years, maximum of 19 years. Results From 539 women selected for this study, BIMA CABG was performed in 30%. SIMA patient’s were older (mean age 68.95±8.39 vs 62.75±9.82 years, p<0.001), but the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors were similar between groups (arterial hypertension, p=0.693; dyslipidemia, p=0.111; diabetes mellitus, p=0.462 and obesity, p=0.109). Peripheral artery disease (p=0.707), left ventricular dysfunction (p=0.727), cerebrovascular disease (p=0.730), active smoking habits (p=0.05) and chronic obstrutive pulmonary disease (p=0.537) were also similar. Severe chronic kidney disease (27% vs 14%, p<0.001) and Canadian Coronary Society - grade IV (74% vs 63%, p=0.011) were more frequent in SIMA group. In the univariable survival analysis, SIMA had worse survival results than BIMA (Log Rank test p<0.01). At 5-, 10- and 15- years of follow-up, cumulative survival for SIMA vs BIMA were 88% vs 90%, 68% vs 75%, 42% vs 58%, respectively. However, the multivariable Cox regression showed that BIMA was not associated with long-term survival (HR [95%CI]: 1.09 [0.75-1.59], p=0.6). Most of post-operative outcomes were similar between groups, with the exception of atrial fibrilation (25% vs 16%, p=0.031) and time to discharge (median days [min-max]: 7 [4-128] vs 7 [4-59]) that were higher in SIMA. No differences were found in immediate reexploration of thorax (sternal infection – 0.3% SIMA vs 1.2% BIMA, p=0.219; bleeding- 1.6% SIMA vs 0.6% BIMA, p=0.681). Redo CABG occurred in 1 SIMA and 1 BIMA women, at 41 and 84 months of follow-up, respectively. Conclusion In this study, revascularization with BIMA seems to be safe in women and provides similar results than SIMA. More studies in women are needed to establish the better approach for this specific subgroup.

Diets, ergogenic supplements, and microbiota in professional and non-professional athletes

Abstract Background Regular physical activity has significant health benefits and can help prevent and manage non-communicable diseases. Intense exercise during training requires diet modulation to support health and performance. Anaerobic sports require high-protein diets, while aerobic sports prefer high-carbohydrate diets. Two-thirds of adult athletes take dietary supplements, and non-professional athletes also use supplements to enhance their appearance. However, dietary stress and imbalanced use of supplements leads the body to different diseases like gastrointestinal diseases and even multifactorial diseases e.g. cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. Depending on the specific nutritional intake, supplementations, types of exercises the microbiota can be influenced positively or negatively. A systematic review meta-analysis and a pilot study were conducted to investigate the role of diet and supplementation about the microbial composition of the gut, under different types and intensities of physical activities. Methods The systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines, and the protocol was registered in PROSPERO (Number CRD42024500826). In a pilot study gut microbiota (16S amplicon sequencing), anthropometric data, and information on diet and supplementation, physical activity and sport habits were collected in a sample including professional and non-professional athletes. Results Out of 1318 studies, only 9 met the criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis. The pilot study’s meta-regression analysis and microbiota analysis highlight the role of physical activity type in changing the Bacillota/Bacteroidota ratio (p = 0.001). Conclusions As gut training becomes more popular among athletes, it is necessary to map interactions between microbiota and different personalized diets, physical activities, and the most popular ergogenic supplements to enhance performance and athletic wellness Key messages • The microbiome can be influenced positively or negatively by the specific dietary intake, types of physical activities and ergogenic supplementations. • To map interactions between microbiota and different diets, physical activities, and popular ergogenic supplements is needed to design new strategies to enhance performance and athletic wellness.

Physical activity habits among members of the Athens Medical Society in Greece

Abstract Introduction Benefits of regular physical activity and exercise are well documented. Healthcare workers play a crucial role in counseling and appropriately referring their patients to adopt physical activity. However, doctors’ exercise habits range between different medical specialties and health service infrastructure. Purpose In this study, we assess physicians’ exercise performance according to the recommendations of 2020 ESC Guidelines. Methods The population of this cross-sectional study comprised 742 physicians of the Athens Medical Society (AMS), Greece. The study instrument was a self-administered questionnaire mailed in October 2023 to investigate physicians’ exercise habits, baseline characteristics of population, specialty, and health service infrastructure [Greek National Healthcare System (GNHS) or Private Practice (PP)]. European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Guidelines recommend at least 150 min/week of moderate-intensity exercise in all healthy adults. Subjects were divided in two groups according to their compliance to ESC Guidelines: 1. Moderate-intensity endurance exercise training per week ≥ 150 min (Group A); 2. Moderate-intensity endurance exercise training per week <150 min (Group B). Results The recommended exercise training per week goal is achieved by the majority of AMS members (53.4%) with an estimated mean exercise endurance training time of 240 ± 285 minutes. Between Group A and Group B there was no difference in age (50±12years vs. 50±13years, p=0.73), whereas there was significant difference in male sex prevalence (58% vs. 43%, p <0.001), in Body Mass Index (24.7 ± 3.8 kg/m2 vs. 26.2 ± 4.7 kg/m2, p <0.001), in Smoking habits (17.4% vs. 23.5%, p=0.04), in diabetes mellitus incidence (6.6% vs. 11.8%, p= 0.01) and in the use of activity monitoring wearables (45.2% vs. 29.8%, p<0.001). Interestingly, there was significant difference between GNHS and PP doctors representation in Group A and B with more doctors in the PP categorized in the Group A (p=0.008) (Figure 1). Importantly, logistic regression analysis revealed that even after adjustment for the aforementioned confounders there was significant under-representation of the GNHS in the Group A or otherwise doctors in the GNHS have 33% decrease odds of achieving the recommended exercise training per week (Odds Ratio: 0.676, 95%CI 0.484, 0.943, p=0.02) (Table 1). Conclusion A significant proportion of the AMS members follows the recommended ESC guidelines for minimum exercise training per week. Several factors affect their adherence to exercise time recommendation. Interestingly, AMS doctors working on the GNHS independently of other factors are less adherent to exercise recommendations. These findings emphasize the need to strengthen prevention strategies to AMS.

Youth Health Trends in Northern Portugal: Analyzing Diet, Physical Activity, and Body Image

(1) Background: In the face of global concerns regarding unhealthy lifestyles among youths, understanding dietary habits, physical activity, and weight management strategies among third-cycle students in Portugal becomes essential. This study aims to evaluate the extent to which middle school students adhere to the Mediterranean diet and assess their physical activity habits and overall weight perceptions. (2) Methods: This study is a cross-sectional observational study. Using self-reported data from a sample of 232 students aged between 12 and 18, this study delved into their dietary patterns, engagement in physical activities, perceptions of weight, and weight management approaches, measured by the KIDMED and YRB questionnaires. (3) The results demonstrated that adolescents engaged in a varied diet, and 65.5% had recently engaged in physical activity. However, 25% reported exercise-related injuries, suggesting potential safety gaps. Extreme weight management practices were minimal, but a disparity in weight perception and weight loss desire emerged, hinting at underlying societal and media influences. Gender differences in certain habits were minimal. (4) Conclusions: While students were generally inclined towards healthy habits, there are evident areas of concern, particularly regarding safety in physical activities and weight perceptions. In the future, interventions should be implemented to increase students’ literacy and raise awareness of the Mediterranean diet and physical well-being.

Penanaman Karakter Demokratis Melalui Pembiasaan Dalam Pembelajaran Pendidikan Pancasila Di Sekolah Dasar

Democratic character is essential for students because it will affect how students think and act in everyday life. Therefore, schools need to instil democratic values ​​from an early age. The fourth-grade teacher of SD Negeri Gondang 1 has tried to instil democratic character by implementing internalised habits in Pancasila education learning. This study aims to describe the application of habits in Pancasila education learning to instil students' democratic character and to find out the obstacles faced in its implementation. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach. Data collection techniques use observation, interviews, and documentation. Data analysis in this study, namely data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion. Validity tests use triangulation techniques and source triangulation. The study results indicate that the instillation of democratic character is carried out in Pancasila education learning through habits that are carried out, including : 1) Routine activities such as group activities, presentations, and delivering responses; 2) Spontaneous activities include discussions when there are differences of opinion and teacher reprimands; and 3) Role models such as teachers motivate and show appreciation to students. The most significant democratic character indicators in habituation activities are getting used to deliberation, providing opportunities to express opinions, and respecting opinions or criticism. The obstacles were differences in student backgrounds and low awareness of the need to carry out habituation activities properly. To overcome these obstacles, teachers try to provide special assistance to students.

Lifestyle and BMI Changes after the Release of COVID-19 Restrictions: Do Humans Go ‘Back to Normal’?

Humans adapt their life history strategy and lifestyle behavior to the environment. The social restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic in the years 2020–2021 led to changes in diet and physical activity habits in large parts of populations worldwide. Additionally, many people reported an increase in body weight during the pandemic. We investigated how diet quality, physical activity, and BMI changed since the end of the COVID-19 restrictions in Switzerland (2019–2023). We assessed diet and physical activity using a standardized questionnaire. We measured anthropometry and BMI using a stadiometer and a balance of a medical bioimpedance analyzer. Our results show a stable BMI in men and women during the pandemic. In both sexes, diet quality and physical activity levels did not change significantly during this time. Among women, physical activity and age were associated with BMI, while in men, apart from physical activity, high diet quality and living in the agglomeration were associated with BMI. Overall, we did not find evidence for a transient “unhealthier” lifestyle immediately after the COVID-19 pandemic. However, we found constituent sex differences in BMI determinants. Our results could indicate a higher resilience in highly educated persons and might contribute to more personalized approaches to prevent obesity.

Dietary Restriction of Advanced Glycation End-Products (AGEs) in Patients with Diabetes: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) are formed through non-enzymatic reactions between reducing sugars and proteins, nucleic acids or lipids (for example through hyperoxidation). In diabetes, elevated glucose levels provide more substrate for AGEs formation. AGEs can also be ingested through the diet from foods cooked at high temperatures, or containing much sugar. The present work aimed to review all published randomized controlled trials (RCT) on low-dietary AGE (L-dAGEs) interventions in patients with diabetes. Pubmed, Scopus and Cochrane databases were searched (until 29 February 2024) with appropriate keywords (inclusion criteria: RCT, patients with diabetes, age > 18 years, outcomes related to inflammation, glucose, and lipids; exclusion criteria: non-RCTs, case-series, case reports and Letter to the Editor, or animal studies). The present review was registered to the Open Science Framework (OSF). From 7091 studies, seven were ultimately included. Bias was assessed with the updated Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. A reduction in circulating AGEs was documented in 3/3 studies. No particular differences were documented in glycemic parameters after a L-dAGEs diet. Reductions in glucose levels were observed in one out of six studies (1/6), while HbA1c and HOMA did not change in any study (0/6 and 0/3, correspondingly). Lipid profile also changed in one out of four studies (1/4). More consistent results were observed for oxidative stress (beneficial effects in 3/3 studies) and inflammatory markers (beneficial effects in 4/4 studies). Other athero-protective effects, such as adiponectin increases, were reported. Limitations included the small sample size and the fact that dietary and physical activity habits were not considered in most studies. In conclusion, a L-dAGEs pattern may minimize AGEs accumulation and have beneficial effects on oxidative stress and inflammation indices, while its effects on glycemic and lipemic parameters are inconsistent and modest in patients with diabetes.

Use of Biomarkers in Nutrition Intervention Studies of Children: A Scoping Review

Obesity in youth is an increasingly prevalent public health concern worldwide. Lifestyle interventions aim to help participants establish healthy habits and reduce obesity-related disease risk by targeting physical activity and dietary habits. Most studies assess weight loss, but biomarkers may enable more rapid and comprehensive assessment of intervention success. This scoping review aims to synthesize the published literature on which biomarkers are assessed during interventions for pediatric obesity to inform future use. This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A literature search of five databases conducted in February 2022 returned 1579 unique and relevant articles published between 2006 and 2021. After screening titles, abstracts, and full text, four reviewers determined that 43 studies met eligibility requirements. Quality screening was conducted, and 97.7% of papers were of fair or good quality. Of the 43 studies, 47% reported measures of adipose-related signaling molecules inclusive of adipokines, 74% included insulin-related biomarkers, 63% reported lipid-related biomarkers, 40% reported proinflammatory cytokine biomarkers, 12% reported measures of skin and/or plasma carotenoids, 40% measured blood pressure, and 21% included liver enzymes. Sixty-seven percent of studies measured biomarkers in whole blood, 40% measured biomarkers in plasma, 56% measured biomarkers in serum, and 2% measured biomarkers in urine. This work summarizes the current use of biomarkers in lifestyle intervention studies enrolling children. These biomarkers could be clinically relevant for pediatric weight management interventions.

Healthy Life Awareness, Blood Pressure Awareness and Insight Among Adult Individuals: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

To measure healthy life awareness, blood pressure awareness and insight levels, along with their predisposing factors among adult individuals. A population-based cross-sectional study. The population consisted of adult individuals in a rural district of a city in Türkiye. Voluntary individuals who visited the population screening, organized as the May Measurement Month activity, were invited to the study (n=290). The data were collected by a questionnaire, the Healthy Life Awareness Scale (HeLAS), and the Blood Pressure Awareness and Insight Scale (BASIS). Descriptive statistics, Pearson Correlation, and multiple linear regression were used to analyze the data. The mean scores of the HeLAS and the BASIS were 49.62±8.30 and 2.89±1.43, respectively. Income level, regular physical activity habits, and formerly being diagnosed with hypertension were positively associated with ahealthy life awareness level. Former diagnosis of hypertension, regular medication usage, and being unemployed were the significant predisposing factors of blood pressure awareness and insight level. Most adult individuals displayed a moderate level of healthy life awareness and a low level of blood pressure awareness and insight. Nurses could take on the leading role in developing healthy lifestyle habits among individuals, ensure medication treatment adherence, and prevent hypertension prevalence.

Neuroticism and extraversion moderate the relationship between physical activity enjoyment and habit

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to examine whether certain personality traits moderate the relationship between physical activity enjoyment and habit. Seven hundred twenty-four participants (Mage = 31.29 years; 54.7% female) completed an online survey that included measures of physical activity enjoyment, physical activity habit, personality factors (neuroticism, extraversion, and consciousness), and emotional style dimensions (outlook and resilience). The data were analysed using Hayes’ PROCESS macro for SPSS (controlled for demographic variables and engagement duration for the selected physical activity behaviour) with habit as the dependent variable. Results indicate that physical activity enjoyment was positively related to habit. Neuroticism was negatively related to habit, while the other personality traits examined were positively related to habit. Moderation analyses revealed that the relationship between physical activity enjoyment and habit was stronger for individuals with higher levels of neuroticism and extraversion, however, the effects were very small. The other tested moderation effects were not significant. These findings suggest that increasing physical activity enjoyment may be crucial for reinforcing habit regardless of the personality traits analysed in this study. In nuances, physical activity enjoyment could be particularly important for less emotionally stable and more extraverted individuals as a reward that promotes habit.

Intervention to Improve Well-Being, Nutrition, and Physical Activity in Adults: Experimental Study.

Mindfulness improves well-being, improves emotional regulation, reduces impulses to eat, and is linked to increased physical activity. Mindfulness interventions usually focus on 1 aspect but do not offer an approach to holistically improving lifestyle. This study aims to address this gap by designing and evaluating a holistic mindfulness intervention. Committing to a 12-week intervention with 2-hour sessions without knowing whether you will enjoy it can be a hindrance for someone completely unfamiliar with mindfulness. For this reason, we decided to design a mindfulness intervention with short sessions over a reduced number of weeks. The aim is to enable novices to discover different aspects of mindfulness while at the same time offering a satisfactory practice for people who are already practicing mindfulness. We designed and evaluated a web-based mindfulness intervention in 5 sessions of 5 to 10 minutes each on well-being, diet, and physical activity to support a healthier lifestyle. The first 2 sessions focus on formal mindfulness meditation to enable novices to discover mindfulness and its main principles. Then there are 2 sessions about food. The first session about food aims to develop a sense of satisfaction with the food we eat and to focus our attention on new sensations. The second session about food aims to develop the ability to resist the lure of unhealthy foods. Finally, there is a session on physical activity. The aim is to develop a particular awareness of the body during movement, to increase satisfaction with physical activity, and to develop regular exercise. In total, 32 participants completed the intervention. After the intervention, we observed decreases in negative affect, anxiety, and emotional distress, and an increase in dispositional mindfulness. There was no effect on reported healthy eating habits and physical activity habits. Few participants repeated the exercises as recommended. The majority of our participants were new to mindfulness. The majority of our participants reported being satisfied with the different sessions. A few minor difficulties were mentioned, mainly related to the environment in which the participants carried out the sessions. Only 1 session was less satisfactory for one-third of the participants. The session on resistance to unhealthy foods was formulated too strictly and the idea of banning certain foods was a hindrance for one-third of the participants. A reformulation is needed. The mindfulness exercises were well accepted and promoted a state of mindfulness. It would be interesting to provide easier technical access to the exercises via a mobile app so that they can be repeated easily.

Physical activity in the Fontan population: provider recommendations and patient actions.

Emerging evidence suggests that routine physical activity may improve exercise capacity, long-term outcomes, and quality of life in individuals with Fontan circulation. Despite this, it is unclear how active these individuals are and what guidance they receive from medical providers regarding physical activity. The aim of this study was to survey Fontan patients on personal physical activity behaviours and their cardiologist-directed physical activity recommendations to set abaseline for future targeted efforts to improve this. An electronic survey assessing physical activity habits and cardiologist-directed guidance was developed in concert with content experts and patients/parents and shared via a social media campaign with Fontan patients and their families. A total of 168 individuals completed the survey. The median age of respondents was 10 years, 51% identifying as male. Overall, 21% of respondents spend > 5 hours per week engaged in low-exertion activity and only 7% spend > 5 hours per week engaged in high-exertion activity. In all domains questioned, pre-adolescents reported higher participation rates than adolescents. Nearly half (43%) of respondents reported that they do not discuss activity recommendations with their cardiologist. Despite increasing evidence over the last two decades demonstrating the benefit of exercise for individuals living with Fontan circulation, only a minority of patients report engaging in significant amounts of physical activity or discussing activity goals with their cardiologist. Specific, individualized, and actionable education needs to be provided to patients, families, and providers to promote and support regular physical activity in this patient population.

Dietary and Physical Activity Habits of Children and Adolescents before and after the Implementation of a Personalized, Intervention Program for the Management of Obesity.

Obesity in childhood and adolescence represents a major public health problem, mostly attributed to dietary and physical activity factors. We aimed to determine the dietary and physical activity habits of participants before and after the implementation of a personalized, multidisciplinary, lifestyle intervention program for the management of obesity in the context of the Horizon Research Project 'BigO: Big Data against Childhood Obesity'. Three hundred and eighty-six (n = 386) children and adolescents (mean age ± SD: 12.495 ± 1.988 years, 199 males and 187 females) participated in the study prospectively. Based on body mass index (BMI), subjects were classified as having obesity (n = 293, 75.9%) and overweight (n = 93, 24.1%) according to the International Obesity Task Force (IOTF) cut-off points. We implemented a personalized, multidisciplinary, lifestyle intervention program providing guidance on diet, sleep, and exercise, and utilized the BigO technology platform to objectively record data collected via a Smartphone and Smartwatch for each patient. Following the intervention, a statistically significant decrease was noted in the consumption of cheese, cereal with added sugar, savory snacks, pasta, and fried potatoes across both BMI categories. Also, there was an increase in daily water intake between meals among all participants (p = 0.001) and a reduction in the consumption of evening snack or dinner while watching television (p < 0.05). Boys showed a decrease in the consumption of savory snacks, fried potato products, and pasta (p < 0.05), an increase in the consumption of sugar-free breakfast cereal (p < 0.05), and drank more water between meals daily (p < 0.001). Our findings suggest that a personalized, multidisciplinary, lifestyle intervention improves the dietary habits of children and adolescents.

Effects of an acute maximal exercise bout on serum insulin-like growth factor-1 in adults with MDD

Exercise has acute, positive effects on mood and can lead to antidepressant effects over time when repeated regularly. The mechanisms underlying the antidepressant effects of exercise training are not well known, limiting the prescription of exercise training for depression. Serum Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) appears dysregulated in those with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), suggesting MDD could inhibit or alter the IGF-1 response to exercise. In healthy individuals, exercise has been shown to acutely increase serum IGF-1, which may act positively on the dysregulated IGF-1 system in MDD. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the sensitivity of serum IGF-1 levels to an acute maximal exercise bout in adults with MDD and healthy controls. Additionally, clinical and behavioral factors of MDD are likely to affect this system, such as depression severity, antidepressant usage and physical activity habits. Baseline data were used from a larger trial in Germany (SPeED Study) collected from individuals with mild to moderate MDD (n=113) and healthy controls (n=34) that were matched for age, sex, and education. Demographics, depression severity (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale-17), self-reported antidepressant usage, MVPA (International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form), and blood draws before and after a maximal exercise test were collected. Multiple linear regressions were conducted to determine relationships between depression severity, antidepressant usage, and physical activity with peripheral IGF-1 levels following acute exercise. Covariates included demographic factors and IGF-1 pre-exercise (baseline levels). Acute IGF-1 changes occurred similarly in depression (mean ± SD; 11.3 ± 12.9) as well as healthy adults (11.3 ± 20.4: p>0.05). Neither depression severity, antidepressant use, nor regular physical activity were significant predictors of peripheral IGF-1 levels at baseline or following exercise. Individuals with MDD are likely to have favorable exercise-induced IGF-1 changes regardless of clinical and behavioral differences. Acute exercise increases peripheral IGF-1 briefly, and in response to repeated exercise bouts, the IGF-1 system could normalize over time. The normalization of the IGF-1 system might be a possible mechanism underlying mood increases that occur during exercise with exercise training research warranted.

Association of Serum Bile Acid Profile with Diet and Physical Activity Habits in Japanese Middle-Aged Men.

Circulating bile acid (BA) profiles change with lifestyle and are closely related to intestinal BA metabolisms such as deconjugation and conversion to secondary BAs. The composition of BA in the blood is involved in systemic nutrient metabolism and intestinal health. Herein, we explored the associations of lifestyle and physical fitness with the circulating BA profile of middle-aged men. Data of 147 male participants (aged 50-64 years; BMI < 26 kg/m2; no medication for diabetes or dyslipidemia) from the Japan Multi-Institutional Collaborative Cohort study were analyzed. Serum concentrations of 15 types of BAs were examined for associations with variables on dietary habits, physical-activity habits, and physical fitness. Green tea intake was positively associated with the deconjugation ratio of total BAs (p = 0.028) and negatively associated with secondary BA levels (free deoxycholic acid [DCA] (p = 0.078), glyco-DCA (p = 0.048), and tauro-DCA (p = 0.037)). In contrast, physical activity was negatively associated with the deconjugation ratio (p = 0.029) and secondary BA levels (free DCA (p = 0.098), and free lithocholic acid (p = 0.009)). Grip strength was also negatively associated with secondary BA levels (tauro-DCA (p = 0.041)) but was not associated with the deconjugation ratio. Energy and fat intake and skeletal muscle mass were not associated with the deconjugation ratio or secondary BA levels. The study findings suggest that lifestyle-associated changes in serum deconjugated and secondary BAs indicate improvements in nutrient metabolism and the intestinal environment.

Environmental Exposures and Cancer Risk: A Comprehensive Review

Environmental exposure is increasingly recognized as a significant cancer risk factor. This comprehensive review aims to provide an overview of current knowledge regarding the relationship between several environmental factors and the development of cancer. The complicated interactions between genetic predispositions and environmental factors in the etiology of cancer are highlighted in this study by looking at both known and newly discovered environmental carcinogens. The review covers a broad spectrum of environmental exposures, including occupational risks, dietary and physical activity habits, and toxins in the air and water. It also explores the molecular processes by which these exposures cause cancer, with particular attention to pathways including DNA damage, oxidative stress, and epigenetic changes. This review also discusses the differences in cancer risk associated with environmental exposures among various populations, highlighting the necessity of focused preventative and therapeutic measures. The results highlight how crucial it is to implement public health programs and regulatory regulations targeted at lowering environmental carcinogen levels and lessening their influence on the incidence of cancer. Considering an emphasis on developing precision medicine techniques and enhancing environmental health equality, future research directions are suggested further to clarify the complex links between the environment and cancer.

The impact of perception bias for cardiovascular disease risk on physical activity and dietary habits

ObjectiveCardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a significant public health challenge in China. Accurate perception of individual CVD risk is crucial for timely intervention and preventive strategies. This study aims to determine the alignment between CVD risk perception levels and objectively calculated CVD risk levels, then investigate the disparity in physical activity and healthy diet habits among distinct CVD risk perception categories. MethodsFrom March to August 2022, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in Zhejiang Province using convenience sampling. Participants aged between 20 and 80 years, without prior diagnosis of CVD were included. CVD risk perception was evaluated with the Chinese version of the Attitude and Beliefs about Cardiovascular Disease Risk Questionnaire (ABCD-C), while objective CVD risk was assessed through the Prediction for Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk (China-PAR) model. Participants’ demographic information, self-reported physical activity, and healthy diet score were also collected. ResultsA total of 739 participants were included in the final analysis. Less than a third of participants (29.3%) accurately perceived their CVD risk, while 64.5% over-perceived it and 6.2% under-perceived it. Notably, half of the individuals (50.0%) with high CVD risk under-perceived their actual risk. Compared to the accurate perception group, individuals aged 60-80 years old (OR = 6.569), currently drinking (OR = 3.059), and with hypertension (OR = 2.352) were more likely to under-perceive their CVD risk. Meanwhile, participants aged 40-<60 years old (OR = 2.462) and employed (OR = 2.352) were more likely to over-perceive their risk. The proportion of individuals engaging in physical activity was lowest in the under-perception group, although the difference among the three groups was not statistically significant (χ2=2.556, P=0.278). In addition, the proportion of individuals practicing healthy diet habits was also lowest in the under-perception group, and a significant statistical difference was observed among the three groups (χ2=10.310, P=0.006). ConclusionOnly a small proportion of participants accurately perceived their CVD risk, especially among those with high actual CVD risk. Individuals in the under-perceived CVD risk group exhibited the lowest rates of physical activity engagement and healthy diet adherence. Healthcare professionals should prioritize implementing personalized CVD risk communication strategies tailored to specific subgroups to enhance the accuracy of risk perception.

METABOLIC SYNDROME AND CARDIOVASCULAR RISK FACTORS IN A FISHING COMMUNITY IN SOUTHERN ITALY

BackgroundWork organization and psychosocial factors influencing sleep patterns may be significant risk factors for developing obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS). However, the impact on the health of working patterns in the fishing sector is not well characterized. The aim of the study isdetermine the prevalence of MetS and its components in fishermen, and to analyze occupational-specific risk factors contributing to metabolic alterations. Methods143 male fishermen from Apulia (Southern Italy) and 93 male University workers age-matched and from the same geographical area were included in this cross-sectional study. A questionnaire was administered to investigate socio-demographic variables, work activity, health status, and dietary habits. All subjects underwent clinical evaluation and blood sampling to depict their metabolic profile. ResultsA higher body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and waist-to-hip ratio (p<0.001) were observed in fishermen than in University workers. No significant difference between the two groups was observed in the prevalence of MetS (15.4% fishermen vs 16.1% university workers) and its relevant diagnostic criteria, except abdominal obesity (42.7% fishermen vs 29.0% University workers, p=0.021). The Castelli risk index, monocyte/c-HDL ratio and the Sokolow index were significantly greater in fishermen (p<0.001). In the fishermen group, the total number of sleeping hours on working days was negatively correlated with WC (r=-0.17; p=0.04), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (c-LDL) (r=-0.21; p=0.02), and the Homeostasis Model Assessment (HOMA) index (r=-0.19; p=0.02). ConclusionsThe higher prevalence of obesity and the imbalance of the metabolic profile observed in fishermen could be related to occupational factors, including the specific working pattern that influences their sleeping hours and sleeping-waking rhythms.

S2128 Factors Affecting Physical Activity Habits Among High School Students Grades 9-12: A Survey Study

S2128 Factors Affecting Physical Activity Habits Among High School Students Grades 9-12: A Survey Study

T Cell Peptide Prediction, Immune Response, and Host-Pathogen Relationship in Vaccinated and Recovered from Mild COVID-19 Subjects.

COVID-19 remains a significant threat, particularly to vulnerable populations. The emergence of new variants necessitates the development of treatments and vaccines that induce both humoral and cellular immunity. This study aimed to identify potentially immunogenic SARS-CoV-2 peptides and to explore the intricate host-pathogen interactions involving peripheral immune responses, memory profiles, and various demographic, clinical, and lifestyle factors. Using in silico and experimental methods, we identified several CD8-restricted SARS-CoV-2 peptides that are either poorly studied or have previously unreported immunogenicity: fifteen from the Spike and three each from non-structural proteins Nsp1-2-3-16. A Spike peptide, LA-9, demonstrated a 57% response rate in ELISpot assays using PBMCs from 14 HLA-A*02:01 positive, vaccinated, and mild-COVID-19 recovered subjects, indicating its potential for diagnostics, research, and multi-epitope vaccine platforms. We also found that younger individuals, with fewer vaccine doses and longer intervals since infection, showed lower anti-Spike (ELISA) and anti-Wuhan neutralizing antibodies (pseudovirus assay), higher naïve T cells, and lower central memory, effector memory, and CD4hiCD8low T cells (flow cytometry) compared to older subjects. In our cohort, a higher prevalence of Vδ2-γδ and DN T cells, and fewer naïve CD8 T cells, seemed to correlate with strong cellular and lower anti-NP antibody responses and to associate with Omicron infection, absence of confusional state, and habitual sporting activity.