Perceived Health Benefits Research Articles

Consumer Considerations of Carbon Paw Prints in Evaluations of Dog Food Products

Abstract Due to its reliance on meat, the companion animals’ food industry significantly contributes to environmental problems. Despite these environmental implications, little is known about the relative importance that caregivers attach to environmental concerns in their evaluation of companion animals’ food products. Study 1 (N = 317) showed that perceived nutritional value predicted whether caregivers were interested in plant-based dog food products, while pro-environmental identification did not impact the findings. In Studies 2 (N = 460) and 3 (N = 194), the promoted benefits of a fictitious dog food product were manipulated. Findings revealed that perceived health benefits rather than perceived environmental benefits were the main determinant of product interest. Together, these findings suggest that environmental concerns play a limited role in people’s views of companion animals’ food products. It is therefore important to address concerns about the health impacts of companion animals’ food products with plant-based content.

Cultivating a greener plate: understanding consumer choices in the plant-based meat revolution for sustainable diets

The implementation of sustainable food systems on a global scale is of utmost importance in order to effectively achieve sustainable diet goals on a world level. Plant-based meat alternatives offer potential replacements for meals derived from animals and serve as a means to transition toward more environmentally sustainable dietary choices. Therefore, in the quest for sustainable diets, comprehending consumer behavior and preferences within the context of the plant-based meat revolution is crucial. The current study is planned to examine the factors that influence the acceptance of plant-based meat alternatives among Chinese people. For this purpose, data collected from 610 individuals through an online survey was analyzed using the partial least square structural equation model. The findings reveal that consumer perceptions, particularly regarding taste, nutrition values, and texture, were found to have a significant impact on the acceptance of plant-based meat alternatives. Effective promotional strategies, availability, and accessibility also play a vital role in influencing consumer preferences for plant-based meat alternatives. The outcomes regarding the significance of health perception and environmental concern in transforming consumer preferences for plant-based meat alternatives are also highlighted. Consumers prioritize plant-based meat alternatives due to their perceived health benefits and favorable environmental impact. Moreover, consumer satisfaction, rooted in meeting or exceeding expectations, signifies the mediating role in the relationship between consumer perceptions and the acceptance of plant-based meat alternatives, which boosts the plant-based meat alternatives’ acceptance. Furthermore, the findings underline the mediating role of environmental attitude in the relationship between environmental concerns and plant-based meat alternatives’ acceptance, emphasizing the importance of sustainable dietary choices. In general, these findings provide valuable insights into the promotion of sustainable dietary choices, the alignment of consumer behavior with environmentally conscious decisions, and transforming the food systems in light of changing consumer behavior and ecological concerns.

Perceived Health Benefits in Vestibular Schwannoma Patients with Long-Term Postoperative Headache: Insights from Personality Traits and Pain Coping-A Cross-Sectional Study.

Postoperative headaches (POHs) following retrosigmoid microsurgery for vestibular schwannoma (VS) can significantly impact patients' perceived health benefits (PHBs). In this cross-sectional observational study, 101 VS patients were investigated. For the assessment of pain, the Rostock Headache Compendium (RoKoKo) and the German pain processing questionnaire (FESV) were used. The perceived health benefits (PHBs) were assessed by the Glasgow Benefit Inventory (GBI) and Big Five personality traits were measured using the Ten-Item Personality Inventory (TIPI-G). We showed that 55% of the participants experienced POHs, leading to a marked reduction in overall PHBs compared to those without POHs. The correlation analysis revealed an association between decreased PHBs and elevated levels of pain-related helplessness, depression, anxiety, and anger. Positive correlations were identified between PHBs and action-planning competence, cognitive restructuring, and the experience of competence. Low emotional stability and openness yielded associations with pain-related psychological impairment. Hearing loss and facial paresis did not exert a significant impact on PHBs. The study highlights the influence of pain-related coping strategies on PHBs in long-term POH patients. Thus, coping mechanisms and personality traits should be assessed even before surgery for post-surgery pain prevention. The limitations of this study include a relatively small sample size, potential biases introduced by the overrepresentation of female patients, and the use of an online survey methodology. In conclusion, this research highlights that the interplay between headaches, PHBs, and psychological factors is also relevant in VS patients undergoing microsurgery. Short-term psychological interventions should therefore be taken into account to improve post-surgery adaptive coping strategies.

Multi-Dimensional Analysis of Japanese Telemedicine Patient Satisfaction.

Telemedicine is a growing segment of the healthcare industry. As telemedicine gains prominence in Japan, the importance of telemedicine patient satisfaction research will also grow. This study examines whether Japanese patients are equally impacted by the same latent dimensions discovered in the multi-dimensional service satisfaction model used by a United States (U.S.) study. The subjects (n = 110) were patients who received telemedicine service between January and December 2023 at Juntendo University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan. Patient satisfaction perceptions were collected using a questionnaire composed of Likert scale items. Overall patient satisfaction served as the dependent variable, and patient perceptions of various aspects of the service were the independent variables. LASSO regression analysis was used to test the impact of the independent variables on overall patient satisfaction along with cluster analysis to examine the satisfaction ratings based upon patient characteristics. Japanese patient perceptions of telemedicine health benefits were the most impactful driver of overall satisfaction. Cluster analysis indicated that males were generally more satisfied than females. The least satisfied patients were predominately female and those experiencing telemedicine for the first time. Patients receiving service from a specialist physician were least satisfied with the telemedicine financial costs. Patient satisfaction levels were found to be highly impacted by perceptions of the health benefits received and the non-financial costs of service. These benefits could be highlighted by Japanese telemedicine providers to increase utilization of telemedicine services. Patient satisfaction was also found to be influenced by patient-centered care (ie, the "soft skills" of providers) to a lesser degree. Therefore, Japanese telemedicine providers may benefit from developing patient-centered communication skills. The model used provides nuanced understandings of telemedicine patient satisfaction, which highlights where targeted improvements in Japanese telemedicine patient satisfaction are likely to be most impactful.

Quality Evaluation of Herbal Yoghurt Produced Using Cinnamon (Cinnamon cassia), Garlic (Allium sativum) and Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Yoghurt is a widely consumed fermented dairy product, known for its flavour and perceived health benefits. To create herbal yoghurt with unique attributes, different amounts (0, 4, 6 and 8 g) of cinnamon, garlic and ginger were incorporated into the yoghurt postfermentation, resulting in multiple samples. The research assessed various aspects of the herbal yoghurt, including proximate composition, micronutrients, physicochemical properties, antioxidant content, sensory attributes and microbiological characteristics. The proximate analysis revealed variations in moisture (86.67% to 87.79%), protein (4.26% to 4.28%), fat (3.82% to 3.91%), ash (0.88% to 0.95%) and carbohydrates (0.12% to 1.73%). The vitamin C content ranged from 0.21 mg/100 mg to 0.21 mg/100 mg, and vitamin A content from 2.79 IU to 2.86 IU. Phosphorus and calcium content varied from 90.43 mg/100 mg to 91.87 mg/100 mg and 53.72 mg/100 mg to 53.83 mg/100 mg, respectively. The herbal yoghurt exhibited a pH range of 4.57 to 4.67, total titratable acidity from 0.43 to 0.51 and IC50 for DPPH values from 20.83 to 21.78. In terms of sensory evaluation, the control sample (YCTRL) garnered the highest mean scores for all attributes, including appearance, aroma, taste, aftertaste, mouthfeel, consistency and overall acceptability. Panellists rated YGP1, which contained 4 g of ginger powder, as the herbal yoghurt with the most acceptability. Microbiological analysis indicated that the total viable count ranged from 7.9 × 102 (cfu/ml) to 1.1 × 103 (cfu/mL), with lactic acid bacteria counts varying from 1.4 × 103 (cfu/mL) to 2.3 × 103 (cfu/mL). Notably, no mould was detected in any of the yoghurt samples or the control, possibly due to the stringent aseptic conditions and hygienic measures maintained during production. From the results obtained, herbal yoghurt can serve as a highly nutritional functional food enriched with a variety of health benefits.

Increasing growth of monobulb garlic through the application of corona glow discharge plasma radiation and organic fertilizers

<abstract> <p>Monobulb garlic, distinguished by its elevated allic.in content, has garnered heightened consumer interest due to its perceived health benefits. However, the challenge lies in scaling up production to meet this demand. This study investigates the potential enhancement of monobulb garlic growth by employing a novel approach that combines corona glow discharge plasma radiation technology and organic fertilizers. By employing a factorial complete randomized design with nine treatments and three repetitions, the research evaluates the impact of varying durations of plasma radiation (0, 15, and 30 minutes) and levels of organic fertilizers (0, 31.25, and 62.5 grams). Key growth parameters, including plant height, leaf count, root length, and root quantity, were measured. Results indicate that the optimal combination for growth enhancement involves 30 minutes of radiation coupled with 31.25 grams of organic fertilization. In conclusion, the integration of corona glow discharge plasma radiation technology and organic fertilization proves effective in promoting the growth of monobulb garlic plants.</p> </abstract>

Assessing Dietary Pattern and Nutritional Status of Small Millet Consumers in Bengaluru, Karnataka

The study examined the dietary patterns and nutritional status of households during 2020. High-income group among urban households of the population showed more preference towards small millets consumption due to their perceived health benefits, but the population in rural regions had higher per capita consumption of small millets (2.2 kg/capita/month) as compared to urbanites (1.4 kg/capita/month). The research also highlighted that 57 percent of rural households integrated small millets into their cultural practices, whereas about 40 per cent of urban households perceived that consumption of small millets managed to regulate their blood sugar level. Furthermore, the study found that small millets constituted 32 per cent of total energy intake in case of rural households, compared to 20 per cent in urban areas. Notably, 67 per cent of urban households and 80 percent of rural households reported experiencing the health benefits of consuming small millets. With these insights, the study suggests policy measures to include small millets in the Public Distribution System (PDS) and the Mid-Day Meal scheme. Additionally, it stresses upon the importance of disseminating information about the nutritional and health advantages of small millet consumption, aiming to encourage adoption in both rural and urban households.

Small Urban Green Spaces: Insights into Perception, Preference, and Psychological Well-being in a Densely Populated Areas of Tehran, Iran.

In metropolitan areas worldwide, abandoned properties are prevalent, prompting a need for small urban green spaces (SUGS) to meet the growing demand. Understanding residents' preferences and perceptions of transformed spaces is vital for effective urban design. This study delves into residents' preferences and perceptions regarding the transformation of such spaces into SUGS and their impact on psychological well-being. By examining how these preferences and perceived health benefits shape the value of transformed spaces, the research aims to inform effective urban design strategies. The participants underwent visual stimulation, with psychological reactions recorded through Electroencephalogram (EEG) readings and assessed via Questionnaire. Machine learning techniques analyzed EEG sub-band data, achieving an average accuracy of 92.8% when comparing leftover and designed spaces. Results revealed that different types of transformed spaces provoke distinct physiological and preference responses. Specifically, viewing SUGS was associated with significant changes in gamma wave power, suggesting a correlation between enhanced gamma activity and increased feelings of empathy. Moreover, participants also reported enhanced comfort, relaxation, and overall mood, and a strong preference for SUGS over untransformed spaces, emphasizing the value placed on these areas for their health benefits. This research highlights the positive impact of even SUGS on mental health, using EEG data to assess emotional states triggered by urban spaces. The study concludes with a call for further research to investigate the long-term benefits of SUGS on well-being, alongside an exploration of the gamma band as a neural marker for emotional restoration in urban green spaces. This research highlights the crucial role of urban design in fostering psychological well-being through the strategic development of green spaces, suggesting a paradigm shift toward more inclusive, health-promoting urban environments.

The importance of enjoyment, sensory properties and perceived cooking abilities in legume and pulse consumption: a questionnaire study.

Legume and pulse consumption is currently recommended for health and sustainability purposes, but barriers to consumption can include low enjoyment and poor sensory properties. This work aimed to investigate the relative importance of a number of barriers and facilitators towards legume, including pulse, consumption with a specific focus on enjoyment, sensory properties and a possible role for perceived cooking abilities in these relationships. A cross-sectional questionnaire study assessed legume and pulse consumption, agreement and disagreement with statements relating to enjoyment, sensory properties, cooking abilities, practical aspects, healthiness, upbringing, social influences and quality issues, and four demographic characteristics. Complete responses were gained from 633 respondents with a mix of genders, ages, usual cooking responsibilities and usual eating habits. UK, March 2021 - September 2022. General UK adult population. Using multiple regression analyses, enjoyment and cooking abilities were found to be important for both legume and pulse consumption (smallest beta = 0·165, P < 0·01), and the sensory properties of these foods were also important for the consumption of pulses (beta = 0·099, P = 0·04). Perceived cooking abilities also reduced the importance of enjoyment and sensory properties for consumption, mitigated effects due to upbringing and practical aspects and increased the value of perceived health benefits (smallest beta = 0·094, P = 0·04). These findings demonstrate a clear role for enjoyment, sensory properties and perceived cooking abilities in legume and pulse consumption and suggest benefits for increasing cooking abilities for improved legume and pulse consumption, as result of both direct and indirect effects.

Perceptions, Attitudes, and Knowledge of Cannabis and its Use: A Qualitative Study among Herbal Heart Study Young Adult Cannabis Consumers in South Florida

Growing cannabis use among young adults in the United States surpasses research and public understanding, raising health concerns despite potential benefits. Limited research focuses on their knowledge, attitudes, risks, and motivations, especially in states with limited legalization. This study explores cannabis knowledge and attitudes among healthy young adult cannabis consumers to understand their risk and benefit perceptions. Data include a subsample of participants in the Herbal Heart Study, a cohort to examine subclinical cardiovascular risk among healthy young adult (18–35 years old) cannabis consumers and non-consumers. A qualitative thematic analysis of the interviews was performed using a deductive approach driven by the theory of the Health Belief Model to generate categories and codes. Dedoose was used to organize transcripts and coding. A total of 22 young adult cannabis consumers (M age = 25.3, SD = 4.4) were interviewed between May 5, 2021- September 23, 2022. Participants were predominantly female (n = 13) and Hispanic (n = 9) or non-Hispanic Black (n = 7). Five themes were identified: perceived health benefits and risks associated with cannabis use, motivation for cannabis use, knowledge of cannabis, and perceived barriers to cannabis use. Participants discussed knowledge, positive/negative attitudes toward cannabis, and perceived risks/benefits based on personal experience and gathered information. Some showed knowledge deficits, and most wanted more health-related cannabis research. Given the current climate of rising cannabis legalization, availability of novel cannabis products, and societal acceptance, further research and evidence-based cannabis literacy for young adults are essential to keep pace with liberalization trends.

Occurrence of myxomycetes in selected elevated urban residential gardens in Metro Manila, Philippines

Roof-top gardens in low- and high-rise urban residential buildings are common in many urban cities for their aesthetic value and perceived health benefits for the building occupants. Leaf litter from plant communities in these gardens offer suitable microclimate conditions and substrates that can support growth and development of myxomycetes. Myxomycetes, also called slime molds, play a role in maintaining the soil microbiome, and can influence the microbial communities in these residential gardens. In this study, 204 ground leaf litter samples of ornamental woody shrubs and herbaceous flowering plants were collected from elevated gardens in eight low-to-high rise buildings for the preparation of moist chambers (MC). A total of 14 species of myxomycetes belonging to nine genera were recorded and identified in this study: Arcyria cinerea, Collaria arcyrionema, Diachea leucopodia, Diderma effusum, Diderma hemisphaericum, Didymium nigripes, Didymium sp., Didymium squamulosum, Ophiotheca chrysosperma, Perichaena cf. corticalis, Perichaena depressa, Physarum album, Physarum cinereum, and Stemonitis cf. pallida. Overall MC productivity ranged from 43 to 45%. In terms of species abundance, Arcyria cinerea and Perichaena depressa were among the most recorded myxomycetes. The study provided evidence of rooftop gardens as suitable habitats for myxomycetes.

Exploring consumer attitudes and behaviour towards sustainable health-related food choices

PurposePalm oil has consistently been a staple ingredient in the Malaysian diet. Despite various promotional efforts throughout the years, the health aspects of palm oil have often been undervalued, leading consumers to overlook its benefits. This study has two objectives: (1) to explore consumer behaviour in purchasing decisions for food products containing palm oil in an emerging market and (2) to examine consumer awareness of palm oil as an ingredient in various edible products related to health.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative methodology that utilises a self-administered questionnaire was adopted for data collection. The conceptual framework and hypotheses were tested using partial least squares (PLS) structural equation modelling (SEM) on a dataset of 342 respondents.FindingsThe findings revealed that three hypotheses – attitude, subjective norms (SNs) and perceived health benefits – positively impact the intention to purchase palm-oil-based food products. Additionally, results indicate that Malaysian consumers practice sustainable consumption when purchasing palm-oil-based food products.Originality/valueThere is a need for a greater understanding of the importance perceived health benefits have in influencing consumers' consumption of food products containing palm oil in an emerging market such as Malaysia. This research study addresses the gap in existing knowledge.

Understanding the pathways between the use of urban green spaces and self-rated health: A case study in Mexico City

In recent decades, extensive research has demonstrated the positive impact of urban green spaces (UGS) on public health through several pathways. However, in the context of Latin America, particularly Mexico City, there remains a notable scarcity of evidence linking UGS use to health outcomes and an insufficient understanding of the pathways or factors underlying these associations. Therefore, this study employs Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to investigate the intricate pathways between UGS use and residents’ perceived health in Mexico City, a densely populated urban center. The SEM integrates three key mediators: sentiments towards UGS, UGS quality, and time spent within these spaces. Survey data was collected through an online survey distributed via social media in May 2020 (n = 1,707). The findings indicate a minor yet significant direct link between UGS use and self-reported health (0.0427, p &lt; 0.1). Conversely, the indirect pathways through sentiments towards UGS, UGS quality, and time spent in UGS were highly significant (0.1950, p &lt; 0.01), underscoring their substantial role as mediators in the UGS use-health association. While a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms linking perceived health to UGS use in Mexico City requires further research, this study proposes that fostering positive sentiments towards UGS, enhancing UGS quality, and encouraging extended visits to green areas could potentially amplify the perceived health benefits associated with UGS use among residents. These insights offer valuable inputs for policymaking, emphasizing the importance of integrating public perspectives to optimize nature-based solutions and broaden their positive impact within Mexico City.

A Critical Analysis on Access and Affordability of Clean Cooking Fuel in India

Improving the access to affordable and reliable energy services for cooking is essential and very important for developing countries in reducing adverse human health and environmental impacts which are caused by burning of traditional biomass. In low-income households, perceived health benefits of adopting improved stoves and financial benefits from fuel savings, tend to be outweighed by the costs of improved stoves and increased rates of fuels, even after accounting for the opportunity and cost of time spent collecting biomass fuel. This paper reviews empirical study and analyze the choices of fuel, adoption of improved stoves for cooking in countries where biomass is still the predominant cooking fuel and awareness. It also summarizes the evidence on the significant adverse health impacts from exposure to indoor smoke, especially among women and young children. The review highlights the wide range of factors that influence households cooking fuel choices and adoption of improved stoves, including socioeconomic i.e. access and availability, collection costs and fuel prices, household income, education and awareness, behavioral i.e. food tastes, lifestyle and cultural and external factors both indoor air pollution, government policies. The paper identifies knowledge and evidence gaps on the success of policies and programs designed to scale up the adoption of improved cook stoves, government policies and awareness among general public.

Exploring consumer beliefs about novel fortified foods: A focus group study with UK-based older and younger adult consumers

Consuming ‘nutritionally-enhanced’ food products (including those that are fortified or enriched to deliver nutritional and functional properties) may help to improve overall diet quality and combat risks associated with malnutrition. However, fortification can negatively impact consumer acceptance, particularly where expected sensory properties of ‘delivery’ foods are affected by target ingredients. Here, we explored factors influencing consumer acceptability for six novel food products that had been fortified, including both savoury and sweet meal components (e.g., high protein dumplings, probiotic yoghurt drink). In person focus groups (25 consumers aged between 22 and 76 years old) were conducted with two stages; firstly, participants completed a blind taste test of products without awareness of fortification. Secondly, participants discussed products with awareness of additional ingredients and food properties. Reflexive thematic analysis showed that liking of sensory properties differed between foods, but informing participants about the fortification of products highlighted potential trade-offs between taste, health, price, and familiarity. Though taste and texture were generally prioritised by participants, positive perceptions of health benefits increased consumer willingness to buy, whilst both cost and uncertainty about product use were potential barriers. Trust of information was a key concern for labelling and product claims. These results highlight product features that may be optimised to support the success of fortified foods. Greater transparency when building product brands and improving consumer knowledge of fortification may also be important for longer-term consumer acceptance.

Beyond Taste: A Deep Dive into the Nutrient Synergy and Consumer Health Benefits of a Unique Oat Foxtail Millet Cake

This study investigates the nutritional synergy and perceived health benefits of the "Allergy-Free Cake," a unique oat foxtail millet cake crafted with precision. The synergy among key ingredients, including oats flour, foxtail millet, active dry yeast, cocoa powder, and moringa honey, is analyzed for its potential impact on consumer well-being. The study highlights the nutrient-rich composition of the cake, featuring proteins, fibers, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Through a meticulous exploration of individual ingredients and their synergistic effects, the cake emerges as a nutritionally dense and flavorful option. Consumer feedback reinforces positive perceptions of taste, texture, and health benefits. The findings contribute to a broader understanding of nutrient synergies in food products, paving the way for future innovations in health-conscious culinary offerings.

Why young adults use tobacco-free nicotine E-cigarettes: An analysis of qualitative data

BackgroundTobacco-free nicotine (TFN) is often marketed as being better tasting and healthier than tobacco-derived nicotine (TDN). Studies have yet to systematically characterize subjective experiences using TFN e-cigarettes. This qualitative study explored young adults’ reasons for using TFN e-cigarettes and perceptions of differences between using TFN and TDN e-cigarettes. MethodWe conducted a national online Qualtrics survey of U.S. young adults aged 18–25 years in October 2021. Respondents who reported lifetime TFN e-cigarette use (n = 317, mean age: 20.8 (SD:2.2), 53.9 % female) provided write-in responses to open-ended questions assessing reasons for using TFN e-cigarettes and perceptions of differences between TFN and TDN e-cigarettes. Responses from participants were thematically analyzed by independent raters. ResultsReasons for using TFN e-cigarettes included product taste/flavor, health reasons (e.g. believing TFN was healthy), and product accessibility. Perceptions of differences between TFN and TDN e-cigarettes included differences in taste/ flavor and acute psychoactive and physical effects (e.g., nicotine buzz, throat hit), with TFN e-cigarettes being described as generally stronger and superior relative to TDN e-cigarettes. ConclusionThese qualitative data suggest that taste and perceived health benefits are primary reasons that young adults try TFN e-cigarettes. Compared to TDN, young adults perceive TFN as better tasting with different psychoactive and less aversive effects. Determining if these perceived reasons for use and differences occur in blinded human experimental studies is a necessary next step to understanding TFN e-cigarette use. Additionally, understanding why young adults use TFN e-cigarettes is important in the development of prevention communication about these products.

“I use salt. However, I also use soy sauce, oyster sauce, sometimes chili sauce and….”: interviews with Australians of Chinese ancestry regarding reducing salt consumption for hypertension prevention

BackgroundHigh dietary salt consumption is a significant health issue in Chinese populations. This study identified the facilitators for and barriers to salt reduction for prevention of hypertension among Chinese Australians.MethodsAn inductive qualitative study with semi-structured interviews (n = 8) was conducted with convenience samples recruited from social media. Adults who a) were over 18 years old, b) were of Chinese ancestry and c) had lived in Australia for at least 6 months were eligible for participation. Interview transcripts were transcribed and analysed using content analysis.ResultsFour facilitators for and eight barriers to reducing salt consumption were synthesised from the narrative materials. The facilitators were: 1) individual perceptions of health benefits, 2) salt alternatives, 3) digital information and 4) increased awareness of negative health impacts from a high-salt diet. The barriers identified were: 1) negative physical changes not apparent, 2) inadequate salt-related health education, 3) hidden salt in food products, 4) inadequate food literacy, 5) pricing, 6) busy lifestyle, 7) low perceived susceptibility and 8) individual food taste preference and cooking habits. Peer and family influence had positive and negative effects on participants’ likelihood of reducing salt consumption.ConclusionsThe facilitators for and barriers to maintaining a low-salt diet in Chinese Australians were multifaceted and interrelated. Future salt-reduction strategies should focus on the health benefits of reduced salt consumption and practical interventions such as salt alternatives and education on low-salt food choices and cooking methods and changing perceptions about salt reduction to become a social norm in the Chinese community.

Acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine booster dose among the people of Bangladesh: A cross-sectional study

Vaccine booster dose (VBD) provides a potential therapeutic alliance in preventing breakthrough infection and new variant's arrival while preserving long-lasting host immunity. This study aimed to analyze COVID-19 VBD willingness and identified the key determinants of VBD acceptance among the general people of Bangladesh. This survey-based study applied a quantitative research paradigm. A validated, anonymous, and multi-item questionnaire was adopted through a theoretical review of pertinent literature on the topic. Data were collected between August 2022─October 2022, and sampling was done randomly. A total of 704 individuals were invited via face-to-face interview approach; however, 13.8 % of them declined to give consent, which resulted in the participation of 607 potential respondents. The main outcome measure was COVID-19 VBD acceptance willingness. Binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to rationalize the study's objectives. The pooled COVID-19 booster vaccine acceptance rate was 70.0 % (95 % confidence Interval [CI]: 67─73) among Bangladeshi people. An analysis of binary logistic regression revealed that, out of 14 potential factors, “efficacy”, “repeated immunity”, ”communication”, and “trust” showed highly significant positive association (adjusted odds ratio [aOR ] = 2.151 95 % CI: 1.391─ 3.508, aOR = 2.033 95 % CI: 1.299─ 3.181, and aOR = 2.552 95 % CI: 1.557─4.183 respectively, p<0.01), and “equal safety”, “risk-benefit ratio” and “community protection” had significant positive association (aOR = 1.739 95 % CI: 1.070─2.825, aOR = 1.712 95 % CI: 1.116─2.627, and aOR = 1.628 95 % CI: 1.395─0.998, p<0.05) with VBD acceptance. However, post-vaccination “side effects” showed significant negative (aOR = 0.393 95 % CI: 0.237─0.674, p<0.01) associations with VBD acceptance. The odds of accepting the COVID-19 vaccine booster was found 1.26, and it was found insignificant (p>0.05) in the Chi-squared test. Bangladeshi people expressed a moderately high level response to COVID-19 VBD acceptance. A positive attitude towards the COVID-19 VBD is an outcome of this study, regardless of the circumstances, as far as safety, efficacy, perceived health benefits, communication, trust, and community resistance are concerned. Post-vaccination side effects fear was the primary reason for booster dose skepticism as well as a barrier to administering booster shots. The confidence in COVID-19 VBD will be boosted when mass people are effectively communicated and vaccine's data become more available publicly.

Garcinia mangostana Pericarp Extracts and α-Mangostin in Hair Care : An Insight into their Potential as Functional Ingredients and the Biological Properties

Abstract: Haircare products with botanical origins and the absence of highly allergenic chemicals, such as parabens, petrochemicals, and silicones, have been considered more skin-friendly and ecofriendly to the environment. Recently, there has been a growing demand for these natural hair care products. Besides the perceived health benefits, many users also believe these botanical origin ingredients are generally milder, non-toxic, natural, and less likely to disrupt the hair and scalp's natural pH and oil balance. Garcinia mangostana has been known for centuries in traditional Asian medicine. α-Mangostin is the major xanthone present in G. mangostana. It exists abundantly in the fruit pericarp. Numerous activities have been reported on this plant and α-mangostin in hair care and scalp maintenance. Our review is the first to highlight the potential of G. mangostana pericarp and α-mangostin and the activities emphasized in hair care. This review thoroughly discussed five essential activities: antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hair rejuvenation (hair growth), and tanning.