Preventable Health Issue Research Articles

Effectiveness of Pilates exercises in sports

Participation in sports is spreading all around the world in an attempt of the community to stay active, healthy, prevent health issues and conditions and to ensure quality of life while there is life expectancy and population is getting more and more older. Existing protocols in rehabilitation are sometimes demanding and are addressed in athletes and people with good physical condition while population gets involved in recreational sports activities more and more. Sport injuries are very common not only in athletes but in general population as well. Pilates is a very popular type of exercise and industry around it is flourishing. Although there are indications that it could be used as an alternative in rehabilitation, research is limited in certain fields. The aim of this editorial is to motivate researchers to conduct well-designed studies in sports injuries’ rehabilitation based on the Pilates method, to explore the efficacy of the method as a complementary approach and the optimal integration strategies in diverse sports rehabilitation settings. Last but not least, it is an attempt for the need of the community to establish certification on Clinical Pilates Physiotherapists based on the principles of rehabilitation.

Key Risk-Factors Contributing to Cardiovascular Disease: Lifestyle Modifications to Improve Cardiovascular Health

Cardiovascular disease is a preventable public health issue. The aim of this review is to identify modifiable risk-factors for cardiovascular disease and recommend lifestyle modification to prevent cardiovascular disease. PubMed, ScienceDirect, SAGE, Google Scholar, World Health Organisation websites, as well as public and community health textbooks, were hand searched and academic resources which are relevant for this review were selected for inclusion. Cardiovascular disease is leading cause of deaths in all continents of the world. While deaths from cardiovascular disease is increasing in Africa and Asia, it is decreasing in Australia and fluctuating in the USA. Premature deaths from cardiovascular disease are preeminent across middle income countries in Europe compared with high income countries. Cardiovascular disease is higher in rural areas of South America compared with urban areas. Trends in lifestyle patterns, including physical inactivity, smoking behaviour, and diets contribute to cardiovascular disease-prone conditions. Prevention includes health promotion activities that facilitate healthy living across life course and limit the initial onset of cardiovascular disease. Investment in prevention is the critical sustainable solution for the cardiovascular disease epidemic. Adopting WHO existing policies within individual countries in Africa, Asia, and middle-income countries in Europe, and ensuring robust implementation of such policies across life course and from different layers of sectors such as education and workplaces would have wider impacts in reducing risk and cardiovascular disease burden in the respective continents. Government of countries with worsening cardiovascular events should also increase health financing and focus on strengthening primary health care services for prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease.

Microalgae as feed additives in poultry: A review on the health-promoting effects

This review explores the effects of the inclusion of microalgal biomass in feed on the health of poultry (broilers and laying hens). Microalgae have emerged as a promising feed additive, valued not only for their rich nutritional profile, but also for their bioactive substances. Bioactive compounds, such as phenolics, polyunsaturated fatty acids, oligosaccharides and carotenoids, exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral functions, which hold promise for promoting poultry health. With the ban on prophylactic antibiotic use in feed, microalgal biomass emerges as an innovative feed additive to enhance growth performance and prevent health issues in poultry. This review extensively explains the critical health parameters of poultry, including histology of the intestinal tract, intestinal permeability, immunity, antioxidant status and prebiotic effects on the intestinal microbiome. Furthermore, it offers valuable insights into the inclusion of microalgae in poultry feed, promoting these health parameters. It concludes with suggestions for further research and practical recommendations on how to improve poultry health using microalgal biomass.

How did COVID-19 lockdown impact the health of older adults in nursing homes? A scoping review

BackgroundThe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on older adults in nursing homes is significant, with high death rates, disrupted care, isolation measures, and inadequate treatment. Social isolation has increased risks of cognitive disorders, anxiety, and depression. While many studies have examined the pandemic’s effects on nursing home staff and residents’ families, less is known about the health consequences for the residents themselves. This review aims to synthesize literature on the COVID-19 lockdown’s impact on the functional, cognitive, and psycho-emotional states of older adults in nursing homes.MethodsA scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines and the PRISMA extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Four databases were searched: CINAHL, PubMed, Web of Science, and PsycINFO. The eligibility criteria included studies on older adults in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, with data that could be disaggregated for this population and results on the lockdown’s impact on physical, cognitive, and psycho-emotional levels.ResultsSeventeen articles met the criteria for data extraction The synthesis was categorized into four main areas: functional, cognitive and psycho-emotional status, and isolation measures. Key findings included decreased functional abilities, lower cognitive test scores during the pandemic’s first waves, development of psychological symptoms, and increased negative feelings among residents.ConclusionsHighlighting the consequences of confinement for nursing home residents is essential for updating evidence, developing effective strategies, and establishing protocols to mitigate the impact and prevent health issues in future pandemics.

Financial Burden and Outcomes of Firearm Injuries in U.S. Hospitals, 2003–2020

Firearm-related injuries (FRIs) are serious but a preventable public health issue. The objective of this study was to describe FRI inpatient costs by (1) patient insurance payer type and (2) hospital safety-net mix. FRIs were identified using International Classification of Disease diagnosis codes in the National Inpatient Sample. All admissions between 2003 and 2020 were included. The primary outcome was consumer-price index adjusted inpatient stay costs. Mixed effects generalized linear regressions, with a random intercept at the hospital level, were used to describe costs. Analyses were sample weighted and performed between 2023 and 2024. Among 538,795 FRIs, the median age was 27 years (interquartile range: 21-37 years). Injuries by payer type were highest among self-pay (280,161; 39%), followed by Medicaid (182,716; 34%), private (113,650; 21%), and Medicare (30,110; 6%). Inflation-adjusted costs of FRI stays totaled $15.2 billion, with $6.2 billion from Medicaid and $5 billion from the self-pay group. After 2014, FRI incidence declined among self-pay/no-charge patients and increased among Medicaid-covered patients-representing a 127% total increase in Medicaid costs from $169 million in 2003 to $753 million in 2020. Among moderate-high and high safety-net mix hospitals, costs increased from $257 million in 2003 to $567 million in 2020. The incidence and costs of FRIs among Medicaid-insured has substantially increased since 2003. Importantly, these increased costs are disproportionately placed on disadvantaged patients and safety-net hospitals.

A Rehabilitation and Monitoring System for Upper Limb Stroke Based on The Combination of Mirror and Stationary Bicycle

The weakening of motor functions in individuals due to a stroke can impact daily life productivity, necessitating therapy or rehabilitation. One method for restoring the function of body parts, especially the upper limb affected by a stroke, is through mirror therapy on a bicycle. Mirror therapy provides visual stimulation to the brain, influencing the improvement of motor functions. To monitor the effectiveness and safety during therapy, a monitoring system is required to track progress and evaluate vital signs to prevent health issues arising from the exercise process. This research aims to design an integrated upper limb motor exercise system using a mirror therapy bicycle with a website to monitor the therapy process and evaluate the results. Observed parameters include heart rate, oxygen saturation, pedal rotations, and therapy duration. This is because the longer the duration and the more rotations of the static bicycle pedaled by post-stroke patients, the greater the likelihood of improving motor skills. Software reliability was tested for the website and data communication. The study involved 20 healthy subjects, analyzed statistically through descriptive statistics and normality tests using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov type. Then, data similarity was tested against a comparator using the Independent Sample T-Test. Heart rate (bpm) and oxygen saturation (SpO2%) data from the sensor were normally distributed with a p-value ≥ 0.05. MQTT demonstrated optimal performance at QoS 0 with a throughput value of 604.8 bits/s, delay of 3.4 ms, jitter of 2.152 ms, and no packet loss.

Visual outcome of penetrating ocular trauma among patients visiting University of Gondar comprehensive specialized hospital

Ocular trauma, a preventable public health issue, is one of the common causes of ophthalmic morbidity and monocular blindness worldwide. It can occur in almost any setting and at any age in either sex but largely affects males. The mechanism and type of injury, the extent of damage, and the time-lapse between the occurrence of injury and eye care are among the factors that determine the visual outcome of ocular injuries. This study is designed to assess the clinical profile and visual outcome of patients presenting with penetrating ocular injury. A prospective hospital-based study was conducted among penetrating ocular trauma patients who visited UOG tertiary eye care and training center during the study period. All patients with penetrating ocular trauma who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Data on demography, initial and final visual acuity, type of injury, as well as management, were included in a structured questionnaire. The collected data were processed and analysed using Statistical Packages for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0. The study included 91 cases of penetrating ocular injuries. The majority of the patients 81.2% were males. The male-to-female ratio was 4.3:1. The left eye was involved in 52.7% of the patients. The median age was 20 years, with an IQR of 10–35. The majority (31.9%) of the cases were in the age range of 5–10 years. nearly half of the study participants (45.1%) sustained the injury at home. The commonest source of injury was wooden sticks 49.5%. Six patients were lost to follow-up at three-month visits. Traumatic cataracts (p = 0.001), and poor initial visual acuity were poor prognostic factors. Still ocular injury is a common cause of monocular blindness. We recommend that more has to be done on the primary prevention and control measures.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Awareness and Prevention: A Cross-Sectional Study Among the Population of the Southern Region of Saudi Arabia.

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a prevalent and preventable health issue globally. This study aims to evaluate the symptoms, knowledge, beliefs, and preventive practices regarding NIHL among the general population of the southern region of Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to July 2024, using a self-administered, validated electronic questionnaire distributed in Arabic via social media platforms. The questionnaire assessed socio-demographic data, NIHL awareness, attitudes towardprevention, and personal practices regarding noise exposure. The sample included 400 participantsanalyzed using SPSS version 23 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), with associations measured through the chi-square and Fisher's exact tests. Most participants were Saudi nationals (97%) and females (81.3%). Symptoms of NIHL, such as tinnitus and the need to increase TV or radio volume, were prevalent among participants. Most participants (88.5%) were aware that high sound levels affect hearing, yet only 9.5% correctly identified the minimum duration of exposure that could harm hearing. Social media was the primary source of information (51.3%). Positive preventive practices were noted, with 66% lowering device volumes and 55.3% recommending sound restrictions on tablets. Significant associations were found between better preventive practices and higher income as well as marital status. The study highlights the high basic awareness of NIHL but identifies critical knowledge gaps regarding the minimum sound level and duration that affect hearing negatively. Enhanced public health education and technological interventions are needed to improve prevention practices. Future research should include longitudinal studies and diverse populations to better understand and address NIHL.

Systematic Screening and Assessment of Hospital-Based Youth Violence Prevention Programs.

Youth violence is a preventable public health issue. Few hospital-based programs intentionally focus on youth violence prevention. This project aimed to describe the Systematic Screening and Assessment (SSA) methodology used to identify existing hospital-based youth violence prevention (HBYVP) programs ready for future rigorous evaluation. To identify promising HBYVP programs currently in use and assess readiness for evaluation, data from the 2017 American Hospital Association (AHA) Annual Survey of Hospitals was used to identify hospitals with Level I-III trauma centers with reported HBYVP programs. Information for each program was gathered via environmental scan and key informant interviews. A total of 383 hospital-based violence prevention programs were identified. Two review panels were conducted with violence prevention experts to identify characteristics of programs suitable for an evaluability assessment (EA). Fifteen programs focused on youth (10-24 years old) and were identified to be promising and evaluable. Three of the 15 programs were determined to have the infrastructure and readiness necessary for rigorous evaluation. Lessons learned and best practices for SSA project success included use of streamlined outreach efforts that provide program staff with informative and culturally tailored project materials outlining information about the problem, project goals, proposed SSA activities, and altruistic benefit to the community at the initial point of contact. In addition, success of review panels was attributed to use of software to streamline panelist review processes and use of evaluation and data analysis subject matter experts to serve as panel facilitators. Communities experiencing high youth violence burden and hospitals serving these communities can improve health outcomes among youth by implementing and evaluating tailored HBYVP programs.

Suicidal ideation and its associated factors among high school adolescents in Haiphong, Vietnam

Suicide is a serious and preventable public health issue. This study aimed to identify the prevalence and associated factors of suicidal ideation (SI) among high school students. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,270 high school students. The Global School Student Health Survey (GSHS) questionnaire examined SI and related factors. The participant was identified as having SI by the question, “During the past 12 months, did you ever seriously consider suicide ideation?”. Overall, 16.9% of the participants reported having SI during the last year (17.1% males and 16.7% females). Multivariable analysis indicated several factors positively associated with SI: being bullied during the last 30 days (AOR= 2.15, 95%CI: 1.23-3.77), often feeling lonely in the last 12 months (AOR= 1.95, 95%CI: 1.10-3.44), worried and could not sleep at night in the last 12 months (AOR= 4.40, 95%CI: 2.64-7.34), tobacco use in the last 30 days (AOR= 3.76, 95%CI: 1.66-8.54), alcohol use in the last 30 days (AOR= 1.83, 95%CI: 1.26-2.65), no close friends (AOR= 2.03, 95%CI: 1.30-3.17), parents/guardians did not regularly check homework in the last 30 days (AOR= 1.57, 95%CI: 1.09-2.25), parents/guardians did not understand problems and worries of students in the last 30 days (AOR= 3.32, 95%CI: 2.04-5.42) and parents/guardians often displayed disrespect in the last 30 days (AOR= 1.63, 95%CI: 1.13-2.36). SI is widely recognized as a significant predictor of future suicide risk. Therefore, schools, parents, and policymakers need to urgently take measures to prevent deaths from occurring.

Increases in drug-related infant mortality in the United States.

We explored temporal trends in drug-related infant deaths in the United States (U.S.) from 2018 to 2022. We used data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Wide-ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (WONDER). A total of 295 drug-involved infant deaths were identified from 2018 to 2022 (provisional mortality data for year 2022) based on the underlying cause of death. In the U.S. from 2018 to 2022, there was a significant 2.2-fold increase in drug-involved infant mortality. The observed increases were higher in non-Hispanic White and Black infants. The findings show that drug-involved infant deaths were more likely to occur in the postneonatal period, defined as ages 28-364days (81.4 %) compared to the neonatal period. The most prevalent underlying causes of death included assault (homicide) by drugs, medicaments and biological substances (35.6 %) followed by poisoning dueto exposure to narcotics and psychodysleptics (hallucinogens) (15.6 %). The most common multiple causes of drug-involved infant deaths were psychostimulants with abuse potential of synthetic narcotics. Drug-related infant mortality has increased significantly from 2018 to 2022. These increases are particularly evident among White and Black infants and occurred predominantly in the postneonatal period. These findings require more research but also indicate the need to address drug-involved infant deaths as preventable clinical and public health issues. Effective strategies to reduce drug-involved infant deaths will require preventing and treating maternal substance use disorders, enhancing prenatal care access, and addressing broader social and behavioral risk factors among vulnerable maternal and infant populations.

Awareness About the Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) and Its Relation to Headphones Use at al Jouf Region, Northern Saudi Arabia

Background: Noise is an "unwanted sound" with various adverse health effects. Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) results from irreparable damage to the inner ear's cochlear hair cells. In addition, a potential consequence of using prevalent personal listening devices (PLDs) puts the users at greater risk of hearing loss when misusing these devices. Objectives: This study evaluates the awareness of NIHL and headphones use among general population in Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study with a representative random sample of the general population of Jouf, Northern Saudi Arabia. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed through the social media. We collected data regarding participants' awareness of NIHL caused by headphone use. Results: As regard knowledge about NIHL among the studied population, there were 46.1% admitted to not knowing whether NIHL is a type of conductive hearing loss, 42.5% recognized that a substantial amount of hearing loss is required to impact speech and social development. The data also highlighted a positive trend, with 54.1% acknowledging that noise-induced hearing problems were preventable. Interestingly, a notable portion, 28.1%, were uncertain about the minimum duration of exposure to loud noise that could harm hearing. Similarly, a significant percentage, 24.0%, were unsure about the minimum volume levels that could negatively affect hearing. Additionally, 21.5% unsure whether frequent exposure to hazardous noise leads to hearing loss due to a damaged eardrum. As regard PLD-related practices, there was a significant portion primarily use earphones (40.4%) and listen to audio for 1-2 hours a day (42.5%). Most individuals (40.4%) reported that people surrounding them are usually affected by the noise from their PLDs. Interestingly, a high percentage (71.9%) expressed the recommendation for installing voice limiting features on their ear devices. Additionally, (80.8%) are willing to change their behavior if presented with evidence of the negative impact of loud noise on hearing. Conclusion: noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a prevalent and preventable public health issue that affects a significant portion of the population, including individuals in Saudi Arabia. The study highlighted a lack of awareness and knowledge about NIHL and its symptoms among the general population. However, there is a positive trend towards acknowledging the preventability of noise-induced hearing problems. The study also revealed concerning practices related to personal listening devices (PLDs), with a significant portion of respondents using earphones for extended periods and being surrounded by noise from their devices. There is a growing willingness among individuals to change their behavior if presented with evidence of the negative impact of loud noise on hearing.

Advanced Waste Seclusion and Chucking System Using Deep Learning Techniques

Any material that is undesirable or unusable is considered waste. Waste can be in any form (Liquid, solid or gas) but generally, waste is a solid form. There are various types of waste like paper, displeasing food, torn clothes, dried plants, kitchen waste, etc., Skin disease, diarrhea, tuberculosis, whooping cough, pneumonia etc.., are some other common diseases spread due to immoral waste management. Separating waste allows us to salvage more items, preventing their scraping in landfills. By reducing landfills disposal Segregating waste is important not only to reduce its impact on the environment but also to prevent health issues that can arise from the disposal of waste and toxins. Although the problem of waste segregation is a big challenge, there are several methods for automatic segregation, which eliminates the need for human hands. The proposed system utilizes Faster R-CNN algorithms to segregate waste into bio-degradable and non-biodegradable categories which, effectively eliminating the need for human involvement in the segregation process. This method employs artificial intelligence techniques to achieve waste segregation.

Development of diabetes complications within coordinated and structured primary health care: a 10-year retrospective cohort study in Germany.

Diabetes mellitus is a growing, costly, and potentially preventable public health issue. In 2004, Germany introduced the GP-centred healthcare programme to strengthen primary care. To assess the hazards of the most common diabetes-related complications in patients enrolled in GP-centred health care in comparison with usual primary care. A retrospective cohort study based on German claims data (4 million members) from 2011-2020. In total, 217 964 patients with diabetes were monitored from 2011-2020. Endpoints were blindness, amputation, myocardial infarction, stroke, coronary heart disease, dialysis, hypoglycaemia, and all-cause mortality. Cox proportional-hazards regression models were used for multivariable analysis and adjusted for sociodemographic, practice, and disease-specific characteristics. Compared with usual care (n = 98 609 patients), GP-centred health care (n = 119 355 patients) showed a relative risk reduction of blindness of 12%, and amputation of 20% over 10 years. The estimated impact of GP-centred health care on myocardial infarction, stroke, coronary artery disease, dialysis, and all-cause mortality is significantly favourable in comparison with usual care. However, the proportional risk of hypoglycaemia (+1.2%) in the interventional group is higher than in usual care. Enrolment in GP-centred health care appears to result in a consistent reduction of the relative risk of diabetes-related complications over 10 years. The significant difference in contrast to usual care may be explained by robust, structured primary care provision, including the diabetes disease management programme, and improved coordination and networking of care within primary and secondary care.

Mortality of acute poisoning and its predictors in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

IntroductionPoison is defined as any chemical that has the potential to affect or harm human physiology due to its chemical activity. Poisoning is becoming a major preventable public health issue in many countries, including Ethiopia. There is a variation in acute poisoning mortality among the existing evidence in Ethiopia. This study aims to determine the pooled mortality rate from acute poisoning and its predictors in Ethiopia. MethodsWe searched available evidence of acute poisoning mortality in databases such as PubMed, Hinari, Cochrane, ScienceDirect, and other search engines. Using the Microsoft Excel data extraction form, three authors independently extracted all relevant data. The Higgins I2 test statistics were used to examine heterogeneity among included studies A random-effects model was used to analyze the pooled estimates and predictors in Stata MP version 17. ResultsWe retrieved 2685 relevant records from different database sources, and after screening, 21 studies (17 published and 4 unpublished) were included. The pooled mortality rate for acute poisoning was 4.69(95 % CI: 3.69, 5.69 I2 = 94.7 %). The most common poisoning agents are organophosphate (29.9 %), household cleansing agents (17.5 %), and pharmaceuticals/medications (9.3 %). The majority of poisoning cases were intentional poisoning committed suicide. Poisoning cases in rural areas [RR: 3.98(95 % CI: 1.41, 11.25)] and delayed arrival times [RR: 2.90(95 % CI: 1.45, 5.84)] were identified predictors of mortality. ConclusionsIn this study, the pooled mortality from acute poisoning was 4.69 %. Poisoned cases from rural areas and delayed arrival times to the hospital were predictors of mortality. To prevent mortality, healthcare professionals should give special attention to rural residents and delayed arrival of poison cases. To control this avoidable death, poison control centers should be strengthened, and other preventive measures implemented at the national level.

A Cross-Sectional Study on Pattern of Thoraco-abdominal Injuries in Victims of Fatal Road Traffic Accidents

Background: Road traffic accidents are preventable public health issues and are becoming more common. These accidents can be linked to a number of factors, including an increase in the number of vehicles on the roads, changes in daily life, a nasty habit of breaking traffic laws, anarchic traffic systems, and risky driving practices. Thoraco-abdominal injury in different forms is one of the major causes of mortality in the victims of fatal road traffic accidents. The aim of this study was to know the pattern of thoraco-abdominal injuries in victims of fatal road traffic accident cases. Material & Method: The present study was conducted at the tertiary healthcare centre in southern Haryana. Total of 75 cases of fatal road traffic accident cases were enrolled during one year of study period. The basic information about the deceased like age, gender, mode of travel of the victim was obtained from investigating officer narration and inquest papers. During autopsy, detailed examination of injuries was carried out and the autopsy findings were recorded and analyzed. Results: It was observed that out of 75 cases male outnumbered females in ratio 5.25:1. Majority of the victims belonged to the age group 21-30 years. The commonest injury of the thoracic region was rib fracture (41.3%). It was also observed that 17.3% of victims had pelvic fracture. Conclusion: Human error is a major contributing factor to fatal RTAs, which can be avoided in many cases. A more stringent licensing policy, particularly for four-wheelers, increased knowledge of traffic laws, the reduction of drug abuse and an appropriate road network that is in line with traffic volume can help to reduce the number of fatal road traffic accidents.

Health Promotion with Long-Term Physical Activity Program for Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are at higher risk for developing common chronic diseases. Engagement in physical activity (PA) can prevent health issues; however, people with ASD are known to engage in lower levels of PA in comparison to their peers. This study evaluated the effect of a long-term, 12-month PA intervention on the fitness and quality of life of adults with ASD. A quantitative approach was implemented to assess participants' fitness, functional ability, quality of life, and participation in a range of PA classes at three different time points. Qualitative data were collected via in-depth, semi-structured interviews with three participants with ASD and three staff members. A total of 34 adults with ASD (mean age 39.76 + 7.27) participated in the quantitative part of the study. Approximately 53% of the participants exhibited perseverance and conducted adequate PA each month. Significant improvements were found in one fitness component and two quality-of-life components. Factors revealed for the program's success were the individuals' free choice of the PA classes and supporting people and a budget that tailored the project. Policymakers who plan health promotion programs for adults with ASD should consider long-term PA programs, with freedom of choice among PA modalities and schedules.

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviors Regarding Balanced Nutrition and Nutritional Status Among Adolescents at the Yayasan Bandung Senior High School, Deli Serdang Regency

Background: Malnutrition during adolescence can slow growth and delay puberty. Adequate nutritional knowledge, attitudes, and behavior among adolescents are crucial to prevent health issues that can continue into adulthood. Objectives: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to balanced nutrition and nutritional status among adolescents at the Yayasan Bandung Senior High School, Deli Serdang Regency. Methods: The research design used was a cross-sectional design with a total of 80 adolescents aged 14 to 18 years at the Yayasan Bandung Senior High School, Deli Serdang Regency. The subject taking technique was stratified random sampling. Knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of balanced nutrition were obtained through questionnaires. Height and weight data were analyzed using WHO Anthro Plus to determine the Z-score of Body Mass Index according to age. Data analysis used the Spearman test to determine the relationship between variables. Results: Most adolescents had good nutritional status, namely 68.8%, while the percentage of overnutrition and obesity was 18.8% and undernutrition was 12.5%. Adolescents have a high level of knowledge of balanced nutrition of 20 adolescents (25%). Balanced nutrition attitudes were categorized as high, namely 43 adolescents (53.8%), while high category balanced nutritional behaviors were only 6 adolescents (7.5%). The results of the bivariate test (Spearman Correlation) showed a relationship between attitudes and behavior-balanced nutrition (p<0.05). Conclusions: There is a relationship between attitudes and behavior of balanced nutrition in adolescence the Bandung Higher Education Foundation High School, Deli Serdang Regency.

Characterization of Talcose Rocks Derived from Serpentinite—Pilot Study in the Ultramafic Complex of Cabo Ortegal (Spain) for Potential Use and Commercialization

Cabo Ortegal, in Spain, was declared a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2023. An ultramafic complex makes it a geologically exciting unit, where many research works have been carried out. Serpentinites, formed by the weathering of peridotites, dunites, and other ultramafic rocks, have been described in detail in previous works. Their role as a construction material has been elucidated, although due to their complexity and heterogeneity, the results of using these materials for construction are not always successful. Talcose rocks, related to serpentinites, can also be found in the complex, although it is difficult to distinguish them. Talcose rocks may be a resource to be explored and exploited in an unpopulated area. The use of talc in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and handicrafts makes it a material of growing importance. However, the asbestos and heavy metal content should be severely limited to prevent health issues. The goal of this work is to start the characterization of these talcose rocks before promoting their potential use in different contexts to support the economy of an underpopulated area of Spain.

Intelligent Health: Progress and Benefit of Artificial Intelligence in Sensing-Based Monitoring and Disease Diagnosis.

Technology has progressed and allows people to go further in multiple fields related to social issues. Medicine cannot be the exception, especially nowadays, when the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the use of technology to continue living meaningfully, but mainly in giving consideration to people who remain confined at home with health issues. Our research question is: how can artificial intelligence (AI) translated into technological devices be used to identify health issues, improve people's health, or prevent severe patient damage? Our work hypothesis is that technology has improved so much during the last decades that Medicine cannot remain apart from this progress. It must integrate technology into treatments so proper communication between intelligent devices and human bodies could better prevent health issues and even correct those already manifested. Consequently, we will answer: what has been the progress of Medicine using intelligent sensor-based devices? Which of those devices are the most used in medical practices? Which is the most benefited population, and what do physicians currently use this technology for? Could sensor-based monitoring and disease diagnosis represent a difference in how the medical praxis takes place nowadays, favouring prevention as opposed to healing?