Moderate Levels Of Physical Activity Research Articles

Longitudinal Changes in Adolescents’ Sedentary, Light, Moderate and Vigorous Physical Activity Levels

Background and purpose: In recent years, sedentary behaviour (SB) has become a significant risk factor for health, alongside the decline of physical activity (PA) in the population. This study explored adolescents’ PA and SB using a longitudinal design, from the age of 13 to 15, to elucidate any changes and when they potentially occur. Method: The data material from the accelerometer measurements was analysed using the program SPSS, version 28. Repeated measures ANOVA (and follow-up test with Bonferroni corrections) were used to assess changes in the four activity levels during the three years. Independent t-tests were used to examine gender differences in each year and at each activity level and to determine differences in activity level between participants with valid data for all three years and those with valid data only at 13 and/or 14 years of age. Results: Statistical analyses of the accelerometer measurements revealed a significant increase in time in the lowest activity level and a decrease in light, moderate and vigorous intensity PA levels during the three years. These changes were larger from 13 to 14, than from 14 to 15, years of age. However, no significant interaction was found between time and gender. Analyses also showed a significantly higher time spent in SB and lower time spent in moderate activity among girls compared to boys at 13, but not at the age of 14 and 15. Conclusions: The findings, which indicate a reduction in PA and increased sedentary time with increasing age, are discussed, which we argue are important to increase and solidify involvement in PA among adolescents. Emphasized here is the importance of communicating the diverse possibilities of movement and challenging understandings of what PA can be for youth.

Dose-response associations between physical activity and mental health among USA adolescents

Abstract Background Adolescent mental health is a critical public health concern. Physical activity has been shown to reduce risk of negative mental health outcomes. However, in adolescents little is known about the dose-response nature of this relationship. This study aims to fill this gap by examining the association between varying levels of self-reported physical activity and the odds of reporting depressive symptoms and poor mental health, among US high school students. Methods This is a cross-sectional study using data from the 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey. Physical activity exposure was assessed as students’ self-reported weekly frequency of ≥ 60min moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), as well as frequency of participation in muscle-strengthening activities, sports teams, and physical education (PE) classes. For the dose-response analysis three categories were created for each item. Depressive symptoms and poor mental health were measured using established survey items. Multivariate logistic regression risk models were used. Results A total of 8,015 high-school students were included. Depressive symptoms were reported by 43% of students, and 28% reported poor mental health. Moderate doses (1-4 days) of muscle-strengthening activities reduced the odds of depressive symptoms by 23% and the odds of poor mental health by 38% compared to low doses (0 days). Higher reductions were observed for higher doses (5-7 days). Similar results were observed for sports teams (1 vs 0 teams). Moderate doses (1-4 days) of MVPA ≥60min showed a significant reduction in the odds for poor mental health (38%) but not depressive symptoms compared to low doses (0 days). No effect was observed for any dose of PE attendance. Conclusions The findings suggest a dose-response pattern in the association between physical activity and mental health in adolescents. Any increase in physical activity levels among young adults would be valuable in preventing poor mental health. Key messages • A dose-response pattern was observed between self-reported mental health and physical activity exposure in adolescents. • Moderate levels of physical activity significantly reduced the risk of self-reported poor mental health among adolescents.

Exploring the relationship between occupational stress, physical activity and sedentary behavior using the Job-Demand-Control Model

ObjectivesTo study the relationship between the occupational stress model, specifically the Job Demand-Control Model of Karasek, physical activity level and sedentary behavior.MethodThis is a cross-sectional, observational, descriptive study. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 100 volunteers working at Clermont Auvergne University. The questionnaire included the Karasek questionnaire and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire.ResultsThe results reveal that occupational characteristics play a significant role, with individuals exhibiting high job control showing reduced sitting time and increased physical activity compared to those with low job control. Job strain was associated with increased sitting time and decreased physical activity. Further analysis revealed that being in a state of job strain significantly predicted sitting for more than 7 h per day. Similarly, job strain and isostrain were explanatory factors for having a low to moderate physical activity level. Logistic regression quantified the risks, indicating that sitting for more than 7 h per day increased the risk of job strain by 4.80 times, while high physical activity levels and being male reduced the risk by 79 and 84%, respectively. Job strain also increased the risk of prolonged sitting by 5.06 times and low to moderate physical activity levels by 5.15 times. Additionally, mediation analysis revealed that a substantial portion of the association between sitting time and job strain was mediated by physical activity, and vice versa, emphasizing the interconnected nature of sedentary behavior and physical activity in influencing occupational stress.ConclusionThe study highlights the impact of sedentary behavior on occupational stress, assessed using Karasek’s Job-Demand-Control Model. Despite being less studied, sedentary behavior appears to be a relevant contributor to occupational stress. Furthermore, the results emphasize the significant role of physical activity levels, suggesting that it plays a substantial part in the relationship between sedentary behavior and occupational stress.

Sex differences in the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and associated factors in the general population of Mongolia: A nationwide study.

The prevalence and factors associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS) between men and women in Mongolia were compared using secondary data from the STEPwise approach to non-communicable disease risk factor surveillance conducted in 2019. In total, 5,695 participants (2,577 males and 3,118 females) aged 18-69 years old were enrolled in the study. The prevalence of MetS was 37.4% in total and the prevalence was significantly higher in women (39.2%) than men (35.2%, P = 0.002). The most prevalent MetS components were abdominal obesity in women (74.2%) and high blood glucose levels in men (58.7%). All of the 2,128 participants who were categorized into MetS met the criteria of abdominal obesity. Factors associated with MetS included being 30-69 years old compared to 18-29 years old, low and moderate physical activity levels compared to high levels, history of hypertension and diabetes mellitus, and a high body mass index (overweight and obesity) compared to a normal body mass index in both sexes. Additional factors included Buryat ethnicity compared to Khalkh ethnicity, living in Ulaanbaatar, no education compared to primary education, higher monthly income, and currently drinking in men; and smoking and sufficient fruit and vegetable intake in women. Significant differences were observed between men and women in terms of the prevalence of MetS, components of MetS, and factors associated with MetS. To reduce MetS prevalence in Mongolia, sex-specific programs should be designed to promote health behavior, such as reducing alcohol consumption in men and smoking in women.

The associations between dairy product intake, fatigue status, and physical activity among postpartum women in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundFatigue is a major issue that affects women during the postpartum period. A healthy dietary pattern and increased physical activity (PA) are commonly recommended lifestyle modifications to promote health during this time. However, little is known about the interrelationship between dairy product intake, PA level, and postpartum fatigue (PPF) among women. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether PPF is associated with dairy product intake in relation to PA level.MethodsA total of 242 women were included in this cross-sectional study. Data related to dairy product intake and PA were collected using a food frequency questionnaire and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire—Short Form, respectively. PPF was assessed using the Fatigue Severity Scale. Logistic regression models were used to examine associations between the intake of dairy products and PPF among women engaged in low, moderate, and high levels of PA while controlling for potential confounders.ResultsHigher consumption rates of yogurt and total dairy predicted lower odds of PPF in women engaged in moderate levels of PA (aOR = 0.24 [95% CI = 0.07, 0.86] and 0.70 [95% CI = 0.53, 0.93], respectively). In women engaged in high levels of PA, lower odds of experiencing PPF were predicted by higher consumption rates of milk (aOR = 0.24 [95% CI = 0.07, 0.89]), yogurt (aOR = 0.21 [95% CI = 0.05, 0.83]), laban (aOR = 0.16 [95% CI = 0.03, 0.86]), and total dairy (aOR = 0.66 [95% CI = 0.47, 0.92]). However, no association was observed between dairy product intake and PPF in women with low levels of PA.ConclusionsHigher consumption rates of dairy products were associated with lower odds for experiencing PPF, particularly for women engaged in moderate to high levels of PA. These findings support nutritional and PA promotion programs to moderate issues with PPF. However, the cross-sectional design of this study could limit the ability to infer causality between dairy intake, PA, and PPF. Further longitudinal studies are needed to establish causality and explore the mechanisms underlying these associations.

Physical activity and psychosocial status among Egyptian healthcare professionals: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe Egyptian health system faces numerous challenges, including overpopulation, limited resources, and high patient load. Long working hours, inadequate sleep, and exposure to traumatic events further strain health care workers. This study aims to investigate the association between physical activity and psychosocial status of healthcare professionals in Egypt.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted in Egypt from 20th March to 20th April 2023. An online self-administered survey was used to recruit 647 healthcare professionals. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and Psychosocial Index (PSI) were used to measure physical activity and psychosocial status, respectively.ResultsAmong the 647 participants, 82% were aged 24–30 years, with 49.9% females and 66.5% doctors. Only 41% engaged in physical activity, and among them, only 5.7% exercised more than three times per week. The median work hours per week were 36, and based on the Total Work MET, participants were classified into high (32%), moderate (40%), and low (28%) physical activity levels. Half of the participants experienced highly stressful lives, while only 40% reported good-to-excellent well-being. Physical activity correlated with psychological distress (r = 0.116, p = 0.003) and abnormal illness behaviors (r = 0.081, p = 0.038), while average working hours per week correlated with psychological distress (r = 0.084, p = 0.033) and sleep disturbance (r = 0.14, p < 0.001).ConclusionIn this study, physical activity levels varied among participants, and the majority of participants had a poor psychological status. Additionally, physical activity significantly correlated with psychological distress and abnormal illness behaviors, while average working hours per week correlated with psychological distress and sleep disturbance.

Low physical activity level in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survivors with obesity, mobility problems and cognitive impairment: Results from the TTM2 trial

AimsTo describe the level of physical activity 6 months after an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and to explore potential risk factors of a low level of physical activity. MethodsPost-hoc analyses of the international multicentre Targeted Hypothermia versus Targeted Normothermia after Out-of-Hospital Cardiac arrest (TTM2) trial. At 6 months, survivors at 61 sites in Europe, Australia and New Zeeland were invited to a follow-up. The participants answered two questions on self-reported physical activity. Answers were categorized as a low, moderate, or high level of physical activity and further dichotomized into a low versus moderate/high level of physical activity. Potential risk factors for a low level of physical activity were collected and investigated by univariable and multivariable logistic regression. ResultsAt 6 months, 807 of 939 (86%) OHCA survivors answered the two questions of physical activity; 34% reported a low, 44% moderate and 22% high level of physical activity. Obesity (OR = 1.75, 95% CI 1.10–2.77, p = 0.018), mobility problems by EuroQol 5 dimensions 5 levels (OR = 1.73, 95% CI 1.06–2.84, p = 0.029), and cognitive impairment by Symbol Digit Modalities Test (OR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.13–2.82, p = 0.013) were significantly associated with a low level of physical activity in the multivariable analysis. ConclusionOne third of the OHCA survivors reported a low level of physical activity. Obesity, mobility problems, and cognitive impairment were associated with a low level of physical activity. ClinicalTrials.gov IdentifierNCT02908308.

Role of physical activity for glycemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Background: Lifestyle modification and physical activity are very important parts of diabetes management. Regular physical activity has been shown to improve glycemic control through increased insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance. The aims of this study were to assess the glycemic level and pattern of physical activity among type 2 diabetic patients. Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out from July 2022 to October 2022 among 305 purposively recruited diabetic patients who came to receive care at the outpatient department of a teaching hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to describe socio-demographic information. Physical activity was assessed using the validated version of international physical activity questionnaire short form/ global physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ/GPAQ). Glycemic control was measured by HbA1C report done within 120 days of the interview. Blood pressure and body mass index were also measured at the time of inclusion. The physical activity level was categorized according to IPAQ scoring protocol as high level, moderate level and low level. Chi square test was carried out to determine the association of physical activity with type-2 DM, body mass index, glycemic and blood pressure control. Statistical significance was defined as p&lt;0.05. Results: Among the participants only 0.3% had high level of physical activity. Moderate level of physical activity was found among 32.8% and low level of physical activity has been found among 66.9%. Among the participants 92.1% spent their time sitting during the weekdays while the time spent at home, at work, while doing course or class and during leisure activities. Among them 21% had the maximum 10 hours sitting time during the last week. The study showed that the persons who spent walking on at least 7 days has negative correlation with blood glycemic level and among them who spent time on sitting has positive correlation with blood glycemic level. Nearly two thirds of the respondents were female. The mean age was 53.09 ± 12.15 years. Majority of the participants were from urban area (69.83%) and the rest are from rural (21.31%) and sub urban (8.2%) area. There was no significant relation of level physical activity with any sociodemographic factors except monthly income, which showed low monthly income was associated with higher level of physical activity. Conclusion: The findings of our study focus on developing more awareness and providing facilities for physical activity to achieve the glycemic goal. BIRDEM Med J 2024; 14(3): 143-150

Comparative Analysis of the Health Status of Heart Transplant Patients with Different Levels of Physical Activity

This study’s goals were to determine the health status of a group of heart transplant recipients (HTRs) and their level of physical activity and to compare the health status among them and with a group of healthy sedentary individuals. Fifty-four HTRs and eighteen sedentary individuals (S) were assigned to four groups, according to their level of physical activity (determined with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire); patients with a low, moderate, and high level of physical activity (HTRL, HTRM, and HTRH, respectively) and S participants underwent a basic blood analysis and several tests to assess their cardiovascular, neuromuscular, and functional mobility condition and their quality of life. The S and HTRH were very similar in terms of BP, HR, and blood analysis while HTRM and HTRL differed from both S and HTRH in these parameters. Regarding the cardiovascular, neuromuscular, functional mobility, and quality of life variables assessed in this study, HTRH showed the best results across all of them, followed by S, HTRM, and HTRL. It is suggested that the weekly level of physical activity of HTRs should be high, which might help them to enhance their health and quality of life.

Comparative study on the association between types of physical activity, physical activity levels, and the incidence of osteoarthritis in adults: the NHANES 2007–2020

It is known that physical activity is beneficial for the prevention of osteoarthritis (OA), but specific discussions on which types and levels of physical activity are more effective in reducing the incidence of OA are restricted. This study is aimed at exploring the correlation concerning the types of physical activity, levels of physical activity, and the incidence of OA by assessing the participation in five typical forms of physical activity (vigorous work activity, vigorous recreational activity, moderate work activity, moderate recreational activity, and walking or bicycling). Cross-sectional study was conducted. Self-reported data on specific types of physical activity were obtained from individuals in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2007 to 2020 with the use of the Physical Activity Questionnaire (PAQ). The incidence of OA was assessed through the "Health Conditions" questionnaire section of NHANES. Weighted logistic regression analysis was employed to study the correlation between physical activity types and levels, and the incidence of OA. Different kinds of physical activity and physical activity levels have varying impacts on the incidence of OA. Among the types of physical activity, vigorous recreational activity and moderate recreational activity are found to have a preventive effect on OA. In terms of physical activity levels, low physical activity levels of moderate work activity are associated with an increased risk of OA, while moderate physical activity levels are confirmed to have a protective effect against OA in the age groups of 20–44 and 45–64. However, gender-stratified analyses reveal that both low and moderate physical activity levels provide protection against OA in males, with moderate physical activity levels showing a more significant protective effect.

Active longevity and aging: dissecting the impacts of physical and sedentary behaviors on longevity and age acceleration.

To examine the associations of physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) with longevity and age acceleration (AA) using observational and Mendelian randomization (MR) studies, and quantify the mediating effects of lipids. In Guangzhou Biobank Cohort Study (GBCS), PA and SB were assessed by the Chinese Version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Longevity was defined as participants whose age at follow-up or at death was at or above the 90th age percentile. AA was defined as the residual resulting from a linear model that regressed phenotypic age against chronological age. Linear regression and Poisson regression with robust error variance were used to assess the associations of total and specific PA in different intensities, and SB with AA and longevity, yielding βs or relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Two-sample MR was conducted to examine the causal effects. Mediation analysis was used to assess the mediating effects of lipids. Of 20,924 participants aged 50 + years in GBCS, during an average follow-up of 15.0years, compared with low PA, moderate and high PA were associated with higher likelihood of longevity (RR (95% CI): 1.56 (1.16, 2.11), 1.66 (1.24, 2.21), respectively), and also cross-sectionally associated with lower AA (β (95% CI): -1.43 (-2.41, -0.45), -2.09 (-3.06, -1.11) years, respectively). Higher levels of moderate PA (MPA) were associated with higher likelihood of longevity and lower AA, whereas vigorous PA (VPA) showed opposite effects. The association of PA with longevity observed in GBCS was mediated by low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) by 8.23% (95% CI: 3.58-39.61%), while the association with AA was mediated through LDL-C, triglycerides and total cholesterol by 5.13% (3.94-7.30%), 7.81% (5.98-11.17%), and 3.37% (2.59-4.80%), respectively. Additionally, in two-sample MR, SB was positively associated with AA (β (95% CI): 1.02 (0.67, 1.36) years). PA showed protective effects on longevity and AA, with the effects being partly mediated through lipids. Conversely, SB had a detrimental impact on AA. MPA was associated with higher likelihood of longevity and reduced AA, whereas VPA showed adverse effects. Our findings reinforce the recommendation of "sit less and move more" to promote healthy longevity, and highlight the potential risks associated with VPA in the elderly.

Evaluation of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) using non-exercise fitness assessment (NEFA) among Indonesian students

The aim of this study was to assess the use of NEFA for the young population of Indonesia as well as to test its validity and reliability through comparison with laboratory tests. This study was divided into two phases: laboratory testing aimed at measuring VO2max on a treadmill using a velocity-dependent ramp test (INCS) method based on incremental protocols, and the NEFA measurement phase. The two phases were separated by a week. There was a significant correlation between the three variables: NEFA HRrest vs NEFA Non-HRrest (CC = 0.934; p = 0.001), NEFA Non-HRrest vs INCS test (CC = 0.476; p = 0.005), and NEFA HRrest vs INCS test (CC = 0.525; p = 0.002). The equation of NEFA HRrest and NEFA Non-HRrest was not accurate when performed on a young population with moderate physical activity levels (aerobic for 1–3 hours/week).

Physical Activity Level, Weight Categories, and Fat Distribution: A Crosssectional Study of College Students

Introduction: Overweight and obesity are growing problems worldwide, along with a decrease in physical activity. This trend is also seen in the United Arab Emirates, including insufficient exercise among university students. This study aimed to evaluate the physical activity level, weight categories, and fat distribution among female college students and determine the correlations and associations between these factors and demographic factors. Methods: A cross-sectional quasi-experimental study was conducted among 204 female undergraduate health profession students recruited through a convenience sampling technique. Data were collected using anthropometric measurements and a self-administered International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). The relationships between weight categories (Body Mass Index, BMI), fat distribution (Waist-to-Hip Ratio, WHR), and levels of physical activity, as well as the relationship between BMI and WHR, were analyzed using the PSPP statistical program. Results: The mean age of the students was 20.5 ± 1.9 years, with an average BMI of 25.4 ± 6.6 kg/m2. About 60.3% of the students were moderately active. Physical activity levels were significantly associated with BMI categories (P= 0.008). BMI and WHR categories were also significantly associated (P= 0.012). There was a strong association between students' perceived physical activity levels and their actual activity, as measured by the IPAQ short form (P= 0.001). No significant relationships were found between physical activity, anthropometrics, and demographic characteristics Conclusion: Female college students demonstrated moderate levels of physical activity, and a negative correlation was detected between their physical activity levels and weight categories. None of the studied demographics showed a correlation or association.

An assessment of musculoskeletal disorders and physical activity levels in dentists: Across-sectional study.

Dentistry is a physically and mentally demanding profession that involves long periods of muscle imbalance and asymmetrical postures when performing delicate procedures. This can lead to a high incidence of work-related diseases. However, physical activity may prevent or minimize the incidence of musculoskeletal discomfort and pain. The present study aimed to determine the association between musculoskeletal disorders and physical activity levels in dentists practicing in Turkey. This cross-sectional study was conducted between March and June 2023 with dentists from Turkey actively practicing dentistry. The short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire was used to determine dentists' physical activity levels, and the Extended Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used to assess musculoskeletal disorders. IBM SPSS 20 software was used for statistical analysis. Data were presented as mean, standard deviation, median, minimum, maximum, percentage, and number. Chi-square, Mann-Whitney U, One-Sample Chi-Square tests, and an ordinal logistic regression test were used. The statistical significance level was taken as p < 0.05. A total of 116 dentists (63 females 53 males) between the ages of 24 and 60 (36.37±7.32) were included in the study. Forty-eight participants had a low level of physical activity, 56 had a moderate level of physical activity (MLPA), and 12 had a high level of physical activity (HLPA). There was no significant difference between the gender (p = 0.224) and age (p = 0.469) of the participants and levels of physical activity. Musculoskeletal discomfort was reported by 93.1% (n = 108) of the participants in one or more body parts (p < 0.001) and 55.6% (n = 60) of them were female. The number of dentists with neck (p < 0.001) and shoulder (p = 0.05) problems was significantly higher. There was no significant effect of gender (p > 0.05) on musculoskeletal conditions. However, the relationship between musculoskeletal conditions and physical activity levels was inconsistent. The HLPA group reported the lowest discomfort for all body parts, except the elbows and knees (p < 0.05). The MLPA group reported higher discomfort in the neck, shoulder, upper back, wrists/hands, lower back, and knees. The group with the lowest physical activity exhibited the highest discomfort in the elbow and ankle/feet regions. This study found that the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders was high among dentists, many of whom reported either low or moderate physical activity levels. The results of this study may enhance dentists' understanding of work-related musculoskeletal diseases and promote their participation in physical activities.

Prevalence of mild cognitive impairment and modifiable risk factors: A cross-sectional study in rural older adults with diabetes

To determine the prevalence and modifiable risk factors for MCI in older adults with T2DM in rural China. This cross-sectional study encompassed 96 villages, employing a cluster sampling approach to recruit eligible older adults with T2DM as study participants. Logistic regression analysis was utilized to identify modifiable risk factors associated with MCI. Average marginal effects were calculated. The discriminatory performance of these risk factors in identifying MCI was evaluated by plotting the receiver operating curve and calculating the value of the area under the curve. A total of 898 older adults with T2DM in our study. The overall prevalence of MCI was 50.22 %. Independent associations with MCI were found in poor self-management ability of diabetes (OR = 0.808, 95 % CI: 0.808, 0.766), depressive symptoms (OR = 3.500, 95 % CI: 1.933, 6.337), moderate (OR = 0.936, 95 % CI: 0.017, 0.075) and high (OR = 0.939, 95 % CI: 0.016, 0.100) levels of physical activity, poorer oral health (OR = 2.660, 95 % CI: 2.226, 3.179), and lower grip strength (OR = 0.913, 95 % CI: 0.870, 0.958). The AUC was 0.967 (95 % CI 0.508–0.470). The prevalence of MCI was high among older adults with T2DM in rural areas of China. The self-management ability of diabetes, depressive symptoms, physical activity, oral health and grip strength were modifiable risk factors of MCI. Targeted interventions should be developed and implemented to address these modifiable risk factors, aiming to enhance cognitive function and mitigate the incidence of MCI in older adults with T2DM.

Musculoskeletal symptoms among workers of the pulp and paper industry: the contribution of age, gender, body mass index and physical activity level

Objectives. This study aimed to investigate 12-month and 7-day prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among workers of the pulp and paper industry, and assess the contribution of age, gender, body mass index (BMI) and physical activity (PA). Methods. The sample comprised 904 workers. Musculoskeletal symptoms were assessed using the Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire. χ 2 tests assessed the association between musculoskeletal symptoms and age/gender/BMI/PA, and multivariate logistic regression models predicted the 12-month occurrence of symptoms in the five most prevalent regions. Results. The five most affected body regions were the lower back, shoulders, neck, knees and wrists/hands. Older workers presented more symptoms in all body regions, except dorsal; female gender was associated with neck symptoms (p = 0.001); overweight was associated with a higher prevalence of lower back (p = 0.01), knee (p = 0.017) and ankle/foot (p = 0.037) symptoms; and a moderate PA level was associated with thigh/hip symptoms (p = 0.006). Age was a significant predictor in all five most affected regions; gender was a significant predictor for shoulders, neck and wrists/hands; and BMI was a significant predictor for lower back symptoms. Conclusion. The 12-month and 7-day prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among workers of the pulp and paper industry is higher in the lower back, shoulders, neck, knees and wrists/hands.

Physical Activity, Fitness, and Long-Term Risk of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Prospective Cohort Study.

Observational studies have demonstrated an increased amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) risk among professional athletes in various sports. For moderately increased levels of physical activity and fitness, the results are diverging. Through a cohort study, we aimed to assess the relationship between indicators of physical activity and fitness (self-reported physical activity and resting heart rate) and long-term ALS risk. From a large Norwegian cardiovascular health survey (1985-1999), we collected information on self-reported physical activity in leisure time, resting heart rate, and other cardiovascular risk factors. Patients with ALS were identified through health registries covering the whole population. We fitted Cox proportional hazard models to assess the risk of ALS according to levels of self-reported physical activity in 3 categories (1: sedentary; 2: minimum 4 hours per week of walking or cycling; 3: minimum 4 hours per week of recreational sports or hard training), and resting heart rate modeled both on the continuous scale and as quartiles of distribution. Out of 373,696 study participants (mean 40.9 [SD 1.1] years at inclusion), 504 (41.2% women) developed ALS during a mean follow-up time of 27.2 (SD 5.0) years. Compared with participants with the lowest level of physical activity, the hazard ratio was 0.71 (95% CI 0.53-0.95) for those with the highest level. There were no clear associations between resting heart rate and ALS in the total sample. In men, the hazard ratio of ALS was 0.71 (95% CI 0.53-0.95) for those reporting moderate levels of physical activity and 0.59 (95% CI 0.42-0.84) for those reporting high levels, compared with those reporting low levels. Men with resting heart rate in the lowest quartile had 32% reduced risk of ALS (hazard ratio 0.68, 95% CI 0.49-0.94) compared with those in the second highest quartile. In women, no association was detected between neither self-reported levels of physical activity nor resting heart rate and ALS risk. Indicators of high levels of physical activity and fitness are associated with a reduced risk of ALS more than 30 years later in men, but not in women.

The relationship between physical activity and procrastination behavior among Chinese university students: a chain mediated effect of body self-esteem and overall self-esteem.

This study aimed to explore the relationship between physical activity and procrastination behavior among college students and the serial mediating roles of body self-esteem and overall self-esteem. A cross-sectional survey was conducted involving 1,018 college students. The Physical Activity Rating Scale, the College Students' Physical Self-perception Profile, the Self-Esteem Scale, and the Chinese Procrastination Scale were utilized. Serial mediating effect analysis and Bootstrap analysis were applied to the data. (1) Individuals engaging in high levels of physical activity demonstrated significantly lower levels of procrastination behavior compared to those with moderate or low levels of physical activity (Partial η2 = 0.01, F = 2.762, p < 0.01). (2) Physical activity was positively correlated with body self-esteem (r = 0.37, p < 0.01) and overall self-esteem (r = 0.29, p < 0.01), and negatively correlated with procrastination behavior (r = -0.14, p < 0.01). body self-esteem was positively correlated with overall self-esteem (r = 0.11, p < 0.01) and negatively correlated with procrastination behavior (r = -0.13, p < 0.01). Overall self-esteem also showed a significant negative correlation with procrastination behavior (r = -0.26, p < 0.01). (3) Mediation effect analysis indicated that body self-esteem and overall self-esteem played partial mediating roles in the relationship between physical activity and procrastination behavior among college students. The mediating effects were composed of three pathways: "Physical Activity → body self-esteem → Procrastination Behavior," "Physical Activity → Overall Self-Esteem → Procrastination Behavior," and "Physical Activity → body self-esteem → Overall Self-Esteem → Procrastination Behavior," with the effect sizes accounting for 27.70, 12.26, and 7.28% of the total effect, respectively. The findings of this study lead to several key conclusions regarding the relationship between physical activity, self-esteem, and procrastination behavior among college students. Firstly, engagement in moderate levels of physical activity is more effective in reducing procrastination behavior among college students. Secondly, participation in high volumes of physical activity is associated with increased levels of both body self-esteem and overall self-esteem. Lastly, physical activity not only directly impacts procrastination behavior but also indirectly influences it by enhancing body self-esteem and overall self-esteem, thereby further reducing the individual's level of procrastination. These conclusions suggest that physical activity plays a multifaceted role in mitigating procrastination behavior in college students. By promoting self-esteem, physical activity can foster a positive psychological state that is conducive to proactive behavior and academic success. The study's findings underscore the importance of integrating physical activity into college students' daily routines as a strategy to combat procrastination and enhance self-esteem.

Exploring the complex associations among risks of malnutrition, sarcopenia, and frailty in community-dwelling older adults

BackgroundMalnutrition, sarcopenia, and frailty are age-related conditions that are associated with multiple health-related negative outcomes. However, the complex associations between them remain to be elucidated. The aims of the study were to explore: (1) whether the risk of sarcopenia has a mediator effect on the association between risks of malnutrition and frailty; and (2) whether physical activity (PA) level modulates this mediator effect in community-dwelling older adults.MethodsThis cross-sectional study involved 593 older adults (62.73% female; mean age = 71.35 ± 5.86 years). The Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF), the SARC-F Questionnaire, and the FRAIL Questionnaire were used to assess the risks of malnutrition, sarcopenia, and frailty, respectively. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF) was employed to assess PA level. Using the Hayes PROCESS macro (Models 4 and 7), mediation and moderated mediation analyses were performed.ResultsThe mediation analysis demonstrated that the MNA-SF had a significant effect on the SARC-F (B=-0.325; p < 0.001) and the SARC-F, in turn, had a significant effect on the FRAIL (B = 0.341; p < 0.001). The total (B=-0.171; p < 0.001), direct (B=-0.061; p = 0.001), and indirect (B=-0.111; bootstrap CI did not include zero, which indicates a significant effect) effects of MNA-SF on FRAIL were significant, showing that 65% of the association between the MNA-SF and FRAIL was explained by the SARC-F acting as a mediator. The moderated mediation analysis demonstrated that the association between MNA and SARC-F was moderated by the PA level (B = 0.253; p = 0.016). The SARC-F mediated and relatively enhanced the association between MNA-SF and FRAIL only in older adults with a moderate PA level (B=-0.120; CI: -0.154 to -0.085).ConclusionsThe SARC-F partially mediates the association between the MNA-SF and the FRAIL, indicating that malnutrition affects frailty through an indirect path via sarcopenia. Furthermore, the PA level moderates this mediator effect, with sarcopenia serving as a mediator in older adults with moderate a PA level but not in those with a low PA level. These findings reveal that it may be beneficial to consider PA level in combination with malnutrition and sarcopenia in the management and prevention of frailty in community-dwelling older adults.

Maternal Weight Gain in Early Pregnancy with Healthy Live Offspring: Based on the China Birth Cohort Study.

Research on maternal weight gain in early pregnancy with healthy live offspring is lacking for Chinese women. Based on the China birth cohort study (CBCS), we aimed to explore maternal weight gain in different groups. Singleton pregnancies of 6 + 0~13 + 6 weeks of gestation from the CBCS were considered, not including missing data or outliers, those lost at follow-up, or those with non-typical conditions of the offspring. Maternal first-trimester weight and body mass index (BMI) gain was considered as the early pregnancy weight minus the pre-pregnancy weight. Using Pearson's or Spearman's correlation and linear regression models to explore the relationship between maternal weight and BMI gain and gestational age (GA), stratified and sensitivity analyses were carried out to identify the study's robustness. There were 25,292 singleton pregnancies with healthy live offspring who were ultimately enrolled, and there was a linear correlation between GA and maternal weight gain (=0.55 + 0.05 × GA (weeks), p < 0.001, r2 = 0.002) and BMI change (=0.21 + 0.02 × GA (weeks), p < 0.001, r2 = 0.002). The association remained robust in the stratified and sensitivity analyses of the subgroups. Although the association between GA and maternal pre-pregnancy weight and BMI gain is weak, a slight correlation was shown, especially in pregnant women with a typical or low pre-pregnancy BMI, Han ethnicity, moderate levels of physical activity, natural conception, and folic acid (FA) and/or multivitamin supplementation.