Health Implications Research Articles

Internet addiction, sleeping habits and psychological distress in Brazilian adolescents and young adults.

The internet is widespread in modern society and has raised concerns about excessive usage and its consequences for different aging groups. This study explores the relationships between internet addiction, sleep patterns, and psychological distress in adolescents and young adults. In order to assess this phenomenon, an exploratory cross-sectional study was conducted in southern Brazil from October to December 2023. A questionnaire, administered via Google Forms, collected data from 618 participants aged 15-36. The participants consisted of a non-probabilistic community sample selected based on convenience criteria. Instruments included a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Internet Addiction Test, Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale, and Social Media Engagement Questionnaire. It was categorized 48.1% as having moderate internet addiction, and classified 0.8% as having severe internet addiction. Correlation analysis revealed positive associations between internet addiction and depression, anxiety, and stress. Logistic regression identified internet addiction and overall psychological distress as predictors of sleep difficulties, along with unemployment status. The findings highlight the detrimental impact of excessive internet use on sleep quality and mental health. The bidirectional relationship between internet addiction and psychological distress underscores the complex interplay between these variables. This study underscores the urgent need for interventions targeting internet addiction and its associated consequences in adolescents and young adults. Addressing internet addiction levels and promoting healthy internet usage habits are crucial steps in mitigating the adverse effects on mental health and sleep quality. There is a need for targeted interventions, protocols, and preventive measures to mitigate the adverse effects of excessive internet use on mental health and sleep quality. Public health strategies should include IA and its consequences in health programs with multidisciplinary approaches and protocols for treatments for behavioral addictions. The study emphasizes the multifaceted nature of internet addiction and its implications for mental health and sleep patterns.

Lower limb joint loading during high-impact activities: implication for bone health

Lower limb joint loading during high-impact activities: implication for bone health

Microbiota-targeted interventions and clinical implications for maternal-offspring health: An umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomised controlled trials.

Microbes in the human body are the determinants of life-long health and disease. Microbiome acquisition starts in utero and matures during early childhood through breastfeeding. However, maternal gut dysbiosis affects the maternal-offspring microbiome interplay. Lines of evidence on dysbiosis-targeted interventions and their effect on maternal-offspring health and gut microbiome are inconsistent and inconclusive. Therefore, this study summarised studies to identify the most common microbiota-targeted intervention during pregnancy and lactation and to comprehensively evaluate its effects on maternal and offspring health. This umbrella review was conducted by systematically searching databases such as PubMed and the Web of Science from inception to 2 September 2023. The quality was assessed using the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews-2 checklist. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation was used for grading the strength and certainty of the studies. The overlap of primary studies was quantified by the corrected covered area score. A total of 17 systematic reviews and meta-analyses with 219 randomised controlled trials, 39 113 mothers, and 20 915 infants were included in this study. About 88% of studies had moderate and above certainty of evidence. Probiotics were the most common and effective interventions at reducing gestational diabetes risk (fasting blood glucose with the mean difference (MD) = -2.92, -0.05; I2 = 45, 98.97), fasting serum insulin (MD = -2.3, -2.06; I2 = 45, 77), glycated haemoglobin (Hb A1c) = -0.16; I2 = 0.00)), Homeostatic Model Assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (MD = -20.55, -0.16; I2 = 0.00, 72.00), and lipid metabolism (MD = -5.47, 0.98; I2 = 0.00, 90.65). It was also effective in preventing and treating mastitis (risk ratio (RR) = 0.49; I2 = 2.00), relieving anxiety symptoms (MD = -0.99, 0.01; I2 = 0.00, 70.00), depression in lactation (MD = -0.46, -0.22; I2 = 0.00, 74.00) and reducing recto-vaginal bacterial colonisation (odds ratio (OR) = 0.62; I2 = 4.80), and with no adverse events. It also effectively remodelled the infant gut microbiome (MD = 0.89; I2 = 95.01) and prevented infant allergies. However, studies on pregnancy outcomes and preeclampsia incidences are limited. Our findings from high-quality studies identify that probiotics are the most common microbiome interventions during pregnancy and lactation. Probiotics have a strong impact on maternal and offspring health through maintaining gut microbiome homeostasis. However, further studies are needed on the effect of microbiota-targeted interventions on maternal cardiometabolic health, pregnancy, and neonatal outcomes. This umbrella review was registered with PROSPERO, CRD42023437098.

A microbial symphony: a literature review of the factors that orchestrate the colonization dynamics of the human colonic microbiome during infancy and implications for future health

A microbial symphony: a literature review of the factors that orchestrate the colonization dynamics of the human colonic microbiome during infancy and implications for future health

Advancements in Assays for Micro- and Nanoplastic Detection: Paving the Way for Biomonitoring and Exposomics Studies.

Although plastic pollution and exposure to plastic-related compounds have received worldwide attention, health risks associated with micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are largely unknown. Emerging evidence suggests MNPs are present in human biofluids and tissue, including blood, breast milk, stool, lung tissue, and placenta; however, exposure assessment is limited and the extent of human exposure to MNPs is not well known. While there is a critical need to establish robust and scalable biomonitoring strategies to assess human exposure to MNPs and plastic-related chemicals, over 10,000 chemicals have been linked to plastic manufacturing with no existing standardized approaches to account for even a fraction of these exposures. This review provides an overview of the status of methods for measuring MNPs and associated plastic-related chemicals in humans, with a focus on approaches that could be adapted for population-wide biomonitoring and integration with biological response measures to develop hypotheses on potential health effects of plastic exposures. We also examine the exposure risks associated with the widespread use of chemical additives in plastics. Despite advancements in analytical techniques, there remains a pressing need for standardized measurement protocols and untargeted, high-throughput analysis methods to enable comprehensive MNP biomonitoring to identify key MNP exposures in human populations. This review aims to merge insights into the toxicological effects of MNPs and plastic additives with an evaluation of analytical challenges, advocating for enhanced research methods to fully assess, understand, and mitigate the public health implications of MNPs.

Coffee consumption, cancer, and healthy aging: epidemiological evidence and underlying mechanisms.

This comprehensive review examines the role of coffee consumption in promoting healthy aging and its potential impact on cancer prevention. Previous research has shown that moderate coffee intake may contribute to extending healthspan and enhancing longevity through beneficial effects on cardiometabolic health and key biological processes involved in aging. However, the relationship between coffee consumption and cancer risk remains controversial. This review synthesizes longitudinal observational and interventional data on the effects of coffee consumption on overall and site-specific cancers, explores underlying biological mechanisms, and discusses clinical and public health implications. Additionally, the review highlights evidence from Mendelian randomization (MR) studies to assess potential causal relationships. Our findings suggest that coffee consumption is associated with a reduced risk of several cancers, including skin, liver, prostate, and endometrial cancers, and may also lower cancer recurrence rates, particularly in colorectal cancer. These protective associations appear consistent across different demographic groups, with the most significant benefits observed at consumption levels of three or more cups per day. However, evidence is inconclusive for many other cancers, and coffee consumption is consistently linked to an increased risk of lung cancer. MR studies generally do not support a strong causal relationship for most cancers, though some suggest potential protective effects for hepatocellular, colorectal, and possibly prostate cancers, with mixed results for ovarian cancer and an increased risk for esophageal cancer and multiple myeloma. The protective effect of coffee on liver and prostate cancer is supported by both observational and MR studies. The potential anti-cancer benefits of coffee are attributed to its bioactive compounds, such as caffeine, chlorogenic acids, and diterpenes, which possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds may reduce oxidative stress, inhibit cancer cell proliferation, induce apoptosis, and modulate hormone levels. The review emphasizes the need for further research to clarify dose-response relationships, causal associations, and the biological mechanisms underlying these associations. While coffee consumption appears to contribute to cancer prevention and healthy aging, caution is warranted due to the increased risk of certain cancers, highlighting the complexity of its health effects.

Trends and determinants of the use of episiotomy in a prospective population-based registry from central India.

Findings from research and recommendations from the World Health Organization favor restrictive use of episiotomy, but whether this guidance is being followed in India, and factors associated with its use, are not known. This study sought to document trends in use of episiotomy over a five-year period (2014-2018); to examine its relationship to maternal, pregnancy, and health-system characteristics; and to investigate its association with other obstetric interventions. We conducted a secondary analysis of data collected by the Maternal Newborn Health Registry, a prospective population-based pregnancy registry established in Central India (Nagpur, Eastern Maharashtra). We examined type of birth and use of episiotomy in vaginal deliveries from 2014 to 2018, as well as maternal and birth characteristics, health systems factors, and concurrent obstetric interventions associations with its use with multivariable Poisson regression models. During the five-year interval, the rate of episiotomy in vaginal birth rose from 13 to 31% despite a decline in assisted vaginal birth. Associations with episiotomy were found for the following factors: prior birth, multiple gestations, seven or more years of maternal education, higher gestational age, higher birthweight, delivery by an obstetrician (as compared to midwife or general physician), and birth in hospital (as compared to clinic or health center). After adjusting for these factors, year over year rise in episiotomy was significant with an adjusted incidence rate ratio (AIRR) of 1.10 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.08-1.12; p = 0.002]. We found an association between episiotomy and several other obstetric interventions, with the strongest relationship for maternal treatment with antibiotics (AIRR 4.23, 95% CI 3.12-5.73; p = 0.001). Episiotomy in this population-based sample from central India steadily rose from 2014 to 2018. This increase over time was observed even after adjusting for patient characteristics, obstetric risk factors, and health system features, such as specialty of the birthing provider. Our findings have important implications for maternal-child health and respectful maternity care given that most women prefer to avoid episiotomy; they also highlight a potential target for antibiotic stewardship as part of global efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance. The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under reference number NCT01073475.

A - 50 Menstruation Problems and Sleep Interactions: Implications for the Mental Health of Adolescent Females

A - 50 Menstruation Problems and Sleep Interactions: Implications for the Mental Health of Adolescent Females

Bone lead measurements of live condors in field to assess cumulative lead exposure.

Lead poisoning remains the leading cause of diagnosed death for critically endangered California condors, which are annually monitored for lead exposure via blood tests. Blood tests are generally reflective of acute lead exposure. Since condors are victims to both chronic and acute lead exposure, measuring bone, which in humans is reflective of years to decades worth of exposure, is a valuable biomarker. In this study, we measured bone Pb of the tibiotarsus of 64 condors in vivo using a portable x-ray fluorescence device. The average uncertainty for measurements, typically reflective of how effective the device performed, was found to be 3.8 ± 2.2µg/g bone mineral. The average bone lead level was found to be 26.7 ± 24.5µg/g bone mineral. Bone lead correlated significantly with a sum of all blood lead measures over the lifetime of each condor. In the future, bone lead can potentially be used to inform treatment planning and address the chronic health implications of lead in the species.

Ribosomes unraveled: The path from variant to impact

In this issue of Cell Genomics, Rothschild etal.1 reveal how ribosomal RNA diversity impacts ribosome structure and its implications for health and disease. Their innovative methodologies uncover distinct ribosome subtypes with significant structural variations and expression patterns. This work reveals connections to tissue-specific biology and cancer, positing new research avenues.

Emotional processing in binge drinking, tobacco use disorder and their comorbidity in youth: A preregistered PRISMA scoping review

BackgroundBinge drinking (BD) and tobacco use disorder (TUD) are prevalent among youth, with significant social and health implications. However, research into the emotional impairments associated with BD and TUD during adolescence is sparse and lacks integration within a comprehensive model of emotional processes. Moreover, the impact of comorbid BD and TUD on emotional deficits remains largely unexplored. We proposed the first review focused on the variation of emotional deficits in BD, TUD, or their comorbidity among adolescents and we systematically explored differences across various emotional abilities. MethodsFollowing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines (PRISMA-ScR), we conducted a preregistered review of existing literature on emotional processing impairments in BD and/or TUD among adolescents. From 481 papers initially identified, only 7 were included in this review. Additionally, we proposed experimental avenues for future research based on identified shortcomings in current literature. ResultsOur scoping review indicates that emotional deficits are likely prevalent in both BD and TUD populations, affecting emotional appraisal/identification, response, and regulation. However, further investigation is necessary to ascertain the magnitude and scope of these deficits in adolescents and adults, as well as to delineate the distinct or combined influence of BD and TUD on emotional disturbances. ConclusionWhile some emotional deficits are apparent, we contend that examining emotional deficits in BD and TUD separately, as well as together, would offer a more comprehensive understanding of their nature and inform the development of novel treatment strategies.

Comparison of PM10 Levels in Three of the Most Polluted Cities in Romania over the Periods Related to Lower Traffic—Implications for Human Health

Comparison of PM10 Levels in Three of the Most Polluted Cities in Romania over the Periods Related to Lower Traffic—Implications for Human Health

The Mpox outbreak is a public health emergency of international concern: Implications for mental health and global preparedness.

The Mpox, a zoonotic viral disease that has historically affected Central and West Africa, has been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organization. Rapid transmission and recent dissemination in Africa may imply significant challenges to global health, including mental health. We reviewed the mental health implications of the Mpox outbreak according to the published literature. We also discussed the psychological effects of the global spreading of this infection and public health preparedness strategies. Key areas of intervention may include the epidemiological surveillance, vaccine development, and mental health strategies. The Mpox outbreak calls for a robust global preparedness to address potential health emergencies. Strengthening epidemiological surveillance, ensuring equitable vaccine distribution, and building resilient public health infrastructure are crucial. Additionally, addressing mental health consequences may require immediate, intermediate, and long-term strategies, including telepsychiatry, stress management training, and the integration of mental health into primary care.

Assessment of sub-lethal effects of Celcron on Java barb through erythrocyte morphology and acetylcholinesterase activity: Implications for environmental health in aquatic ecosystems

Industrialization and the extensive use of chemicals have raised significant concerns about their environmental impacts, particularly on aquatic ecosystems. This study evaluated the sub-lethal effects of Celcron (Cec), an organophosphate insecticide, on the Java barb (Barbonymus gonionotus) through erythrocyte morphology and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, aiming to refine biomarkers for environmental health assessments. We hypothesized that sub-lethal Cec exposure would induce significant erythrocyte abnormalities and decrease AChE activity in Java barb, with variable recovery rates between gill and kidney tissues. To test this, we exposed the juvenile Java barbs to two sub-lethal Cec concentrations - 0.01 ppm (10 % of the LC50) and 0.05 ppm (50 % of the LC50) -for 60 days. After the exposure period, the fish were placed in pesticide-free water to allow for recovery. Results indicated a significant decline in AChE activity in both liver and kidney tissues, with activity levels showing gradual recovery over time. Erythrocyte abnormalities, including nuclear and cellular changes, were significantly elevated in response to Cec exposure. The frequency of nuclear abnormalities such as micronuclei and binucleation increased in a concentration- and duration-dependent manner, with the gill blood exhibiting higher sensitivity and slower recovery compared to kidney blood. Cellular abnormalities such as twin, teardrop and spindle-shaped cells were also more prevalent in Cec-treated fish. Recovery from these abnormalities was observed but varied between gill and kidney blood, with gill blood showing higher sensitivity and slower recovery compared to kidney blood. This study underscores the utility of AChE activity and erythrocyte abnormalities as biomarkers for assessing pesticide impacts on aquatic organisms. The findings highlight the sensitivity of fish erythrocytes to environmental contaminants and emphasize the need for continued research to better understand the long-term effects of pesticide exposure on aquatic health and ecosystem stability.

Nicotine dependence and incident psychiatric disorders: prospective evidence from US national study.

We examined the prospective associations between nicotine dependence and the likelihood of psychiatric and substance use disorders in the general adult population. Participants came from a nationally representative sample of US adults aged 18 years or older, who were interviewed 3 years apart in the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (Wave 1, 2001-2002; Wave 2, 2004-2005). The primary analyses were limited to 32,671 respondents (13,751 male (47.9% weighted); mean age of 45 years (SD = 0.18)) who were interviewed in both waves. We used multiple regression and propensity score matching (PSM) to estimate the strength of independent associations between nicotine dependence related to the use of tobacco products at Wave 1 and incident psychiatric disorders at Wave 2. Psychiatric disorders were measured with a structured interview (Alcohol Use Disorder and Associated Disabilities Interview Schedule-DSM-IV). All analyses adjusted for multiple potential confounders, including childhood (family history of substance use disorders, parental loss, vulnerable family environment), early-adolescence (self-esteem, social deviance, conduct disorder), late-adolescence (education, personality and psychiatric disorders), adulthood (divorce, stressful life events, social deviance, quality of life, history of alcohol or other substance use disorder), and sociodemographic factors. Multiple regression analysis and PSM converged in indicating that nicotine dependence was associated with significantly increased incidence of any psychiatric disorder (OR = 1.39(95%CI:1.20;1.60)), including substance use disorders (OR = 1.91(95%CI:1.47;2.47)), and anxiety disorders (OR = 1.31(95%CI:1.06;1.62)). Population Attributable Risk Proportions were substantial, ranging from 12.5%(95%CI:8.10;17.0) for any psychiatric disorder to 33.3%(95%CI:18.7;48.0) for any other drug use disorder. Supplementary analyses also indicated significant associations between nicotine dependence and persistence of psychiatric and substance use disorders among patients having a disorder at Wave 1. In the general adult population, nicotine dependence is associated with an increased likelihood for several psychiatric and substance use disorders. Given its high prevalence, these findings have important public health implications.

Risk perceptions of Italian paediatricians for the impact of climate change on children’s health

BackgroundsThis study delves into the risk perceptions of Italian pediatricians concerning climate change's impact on children's health. Given children's heightened vulnerability to climate-related health risks, comprehending these perceptions is crucial. A review of pertinent literature establishes the framework, emphasizing six key factors influencing children's susceptibility to climate-related health hazards.MethodsMethodologically, the study utilized a survey tool developed collaboratively with the Italian Society of Pediatrics (SIP), garnering responses from a representative sample of Italian pediatricians.ResultsFindings indicate a high level of awareness among respondents regarding climate change and its health implications, with a majority attributing it primarily to human activity. Pediatricians recognize various current and anticipated health impacts of climate change, notably concerning illnesses linked to outdoor air quality. Despite acknowledging their role in addressing climate-related health concerns, respondents also cite barriers to engagement, including time constraints and knowledge gaps. However, they express interest in resources like professional training and policy statements to bolster their capacity for effective communication and advocacy.ConclusionsComparisons with prior studies highlight the consistency of findings across diverse contexts and underscore the significance of integrating climate and environmental health education into medical training. Overall, this study sheds light on pediatricians' perspectives in tackling the convergence of climate change and children's health, pinpointing avenues for enhancing their involvement in climate advocacy and mitigation efforts.

An all-in-one smartphone-assisted ratiometric fluorescent device for visual and quantitative detection of glutathione

The daily consumption of foods abundant in Glutathione (GSH) can be supplemented to maintain the homeostasis of GSH in human health and alleviate pathologies resulting from abnormal GSH levels. The fluorescence-based visual determination of GSH has gradually attracted the attention of researchers due to its robust performance and versatile implementation. However, the current GSH visual strategy primarily relies on variations in fluorescence intensity at a single emission wavelength, which poses challenges for naked-eye and portable readout, as well as distorted signals caused by complex matrix effects in real samples. Herein, a ratiometric fluorescence sensor based on carbon dots (CDs) combined with an all-in-one 3D-printed smartphone-based device was successfully developed for low-cost, visual and rapid detection of GSH without the need for an external excitation light source. The ratiometric fluorescent materials were synthesized by conjugating blue carbon dots (B-CDs) with yellow carbon dots (Y-CDs) through the utilization of selected Cu2+ ions. The resulting mechanism demonstrated that the coordination interaction between Cu2+ and residual aromatic amino groups in Y-CDs (Y-CDs-Cu2+) contributed to a newly emitted peak at 580 nm, thereby inducing fluorescence resonance energy transfer from B-CDs to Y-CDs-Cu2+. A linear correlation was found between GSH concentrations and R/B values in the range of 10–100 μM, with a limit of detection observed at 4.8 μM. By utilizing this portable device in combination with RGB analysis, the quantitative detection of GSH can be achieved even in complex food matrices such as tomatoes and grapes. The universality of this all-in-one device was further validated by pre-spraying CDs onto a paper strip for visual measurement of GSH. This work offers a portable, visual, and accessible approach to evaluating food safety and nutrition, thereby demonstrating significant economic value and holding profound implications for human health.

The use of an online learning module to improve knowledge for prevention of back pain and injury in industrial workers.

Back pain is a significant public health problem that accounts for a high percentage of morbidity and disability worldwide. Low back pain is a frequent cause of missed workdays and job-specific disability and is associated with poor outcomes for employees and employers. An online learning module that focused on normal anatomy of the spine, common pathophysiologic diagnosis or findings that may contribute to back pain, and techniques for back pain reduction was created for employees at risk due to the nature of their labor-intensive jobs. This module also contained case studies and graphics that demonstrated ways to reduce risks or hazards by incorporating job-specific changes in the work environment. A mixed method statistical analysis of knowledge change was completed after participation in the online module. This demonstrated that participants had a marked increase in knowledge in all areas examined. In addition, participants perceived the module as beneficial for grasping anatomical concepts, understanding injury prevention and management strategies, valuing the shared information, leveraging visual aids, and applying practical examples per qualitative questions answered. Participants gained knowledge that can be used on the job to decrease risk of sustaining back pain or injury. The intervention approach enhances the understanding of back pain among industrial workers and holds profound implications for public health on a broader scale. Monitoring population health and preventing back pain and injury while at work is essential for safety and is also a core competency in public health.

The degenerate coding of psychometric profiles through functional connectivity archetypes

IntroductionDegeneracy in the brain-behavior code refers to the brain’s ability to utilize different neural configurations to support similar functions, reflecting its adaptability and robustness. This study aims to explore degeneracy by investigating the non-linear associations between psychometric profiles and resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC).MethodsThe study analyzed RSFC data from 500 subjects to uncover the underlying neural configurations associated with various psychometric outcomes. Self-organized maps (SOM), a type of unsupervised machine learning algorithm, were employed to cluster the RSFC data. And identify distinct archetypal connectivity profiles characterized by unique within- and between-network connectivity patterns.ResultsThe clustering analysis using SOM revealed several distinct archetypal connectivity profiles within the RSFC data. Each archetype exhibited unique connectivity patterns that correlated with various cognitive, physical, and socioemotional outcomes. Notably, the interaction between different SOM dimensions was significantly associated with specific psychometric profiles.DiscussionThis study underscores the complexity of brain-behavior interactions and the brain’s capacity for degeneracy, where different neural configurations can lead to similar behavioral outcomes. These findings highlight the existence of multiple brain architectures capable of producing similar behavioral outcomes, illustrating the concept of neural degeneracy, and advance our understanding of neural degeneracy and its implications for cognitive and emotional health.

Mendelian randomization provides causal association between COVID-19 and thyroid cancer: insights from a multi-cancer analysis

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the SARS-CoV-2 virus has caused over 600 million confirmed infections and more than 6.8 million deaths worldwide, with ongoing implications for human health. COVID-19 has been extensively documented to have extrapulmonary manifestations due to the widespread expression of necessary ACE2 receptors in the human body. Nevertheless, the association between COVID-19 and cancer risk remains inadequately explored. This study employs Mendelian randomization (MR) methods to examine the causal relationship between genetic variations associated with COVID-19 and the risk of developing cancer. The findings indicate that COVID-19 has negligible impact on most cancer risks. Interestingly, a higher COVID-19 impact is associated with a decreased risk of thyroid cancer. In summary, our findings demonstrate a genetic correlation between COVID-19 and thyroid cancer, contributing to our understanding of the interplay between COVID-19 and cancer risk.