1
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Yasukouchi A. The next stage of physiological anthropology. J Physiol Anthropol 2023; 42:3. [PMID: 36895022 PMCID: PMC9999635 DOI: 10.1186/s40101-023-00320-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
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2
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Oomen-Welke K, Schlachter E, Hilbich T, Naumann J, Müller A, Hinterberger T, Huber R. Spending Time in the Forest or the Field: Investigations on Stress Perception and Psychological Well-Being-A Randomized Cross-Over Trial in Highly Sensitive Persons. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15322. [PMID: 36430041 PMCID: PMC9690301 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Research suggests that stays in a forest promote relaxation and reduce stress compared to spending time in a city. The aim of this study was to compare stays in a forest with another natural environment, a cultivated field. Healthy, highly sensitive persons (HSP, SV12 score > 18) aged between 18 and 70 years spent one hour in the forest and in the field at intervals of one week. The primary outcome was measured using the Change in Subjective Self-Perception (CSP-14) questionnaire. Secondary outcomes were measured using the Profile Of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire and by analyzing salivary cortisol. We randomized 43 participants. Thirty-nine were allocated and included in the intention-to-treat analysis (90% female, mean age 45 years). CSP-14 in part showed significant differences-total score (p = 0.054, Cohen's d = 0.319), item "integration" (p = 0.028, Cohen's d = 0.365)-favoring the effects of the forest. These effects were more pronounced in summer (August). In October, during rainfall, we detected no relevant differences. POMS only showed a significant difference in the subcategory "depression/anxiety" in favor of the field. The amount of cortisol in saliva was not different between the groups. A short-term stay in a forest in summer caused a greater improvement in mood and well-being in HSP than in a field. This effect was not detectable during bad weather in the fall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Oomen-Welke
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Evelyn Schlachter
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Tina Hilbich
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Johannes Naumann
- Interdisciplinary Center for Treatment and Research in Balneology, European Institute for Physical Therapy and Balneology (EIPB), Sonnenbergstr. 35, 79117 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Alexander Müller
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Thilo Hinterberger
- Forschungsbereich Angewandte Bewusstseinswissenschaften, Abteilung für Psychosomatische Medizin, Universitätsklinikum Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Roman Huber
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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3
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Bartholomew E, Roemer A, Medvedev ON. Validation and Enhancement of the 6-Item Nature-Relatedness Scale Using Rasch Analysis. ECOPSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1089/eco.2022.0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emerson Bartholomew
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Anja Roemer
- School of Psychology, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Oleg N. Medvedev
- School of Psychology, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
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4
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Increased physical activity improves gut microbiota composition and reduces short-chain fatty acid concentrations in older adults with insomnia. Sci Rep 2022; 12:2265. [PMID: 35145140 PMCID: PMC8831598 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05099-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Physical activity (PA) can improve functional abilities, well-being, and independence in older adults with insomnia. Studies have shown that PA may be linked to changes in the gut microbiota composition and its metabolites' concentrations. This association among older adults with insomnia, however, is yet to be determined. We explored the relationships between physical activity (PA) levels, gut microbiota composition, and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels in this population. Forty-nine community-dwelling adults with insomnia symptoms, aged 65 and older, participated in this study. Their average daily step-count and sleep continuity measures over a two-week period were calculated based on Actigraphic recordings. Each participant provided fecal samples for the microbiome and SCFA analyses, anthropometric measures, and information via questionnaires on medical history and food consumption. The gut microbiota composition and SCFA concentrations were determined by next-generation sequencing and Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, respectively. Participants were divided into two groups (more and less active) according to their median step/day count. We compared the microbiota abundance and SCFA concentrations between groups and performed correlation analysis between gut microbiota abundances and study variables. Different microbiota taxa in each PA group and increased SCFAs in feces of less active individuals were found. Changes in step counts were positively or negatively associated with the relative abundance of 19 ASVs, 3 microorganisms at the family level, and 11 microorganisms at the genus level. Furthermore, significant associations were discovered among physical activity, gut microbiota, SCFAs, and sleep parameters. Our findings provide new insights on the relationship between PA, gut microbiota composition, and primary metabolites in older adults with insomnia.
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5
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Chang CC, Cox DTC, Fan Q, Nghiem TPL, Tan CLY, Oh RRY, Lin BB, Shanahan DF, Fuller RA, Gaston KJ, Carrasco LR. People's desire to be in nature and how they experience it are partially heritable. PLoS Biol 2022; 20:e3001500. [PMID: 35113853 PMCID: PMC8812842 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3001500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Nature experiences have been linked to mental and physical health. Despite the importance of understanding what determines individual variation in nature experience, the role of genes has been overlooked. Here, using a twin design (TwinsUK, number of individuals = 2,306), we investigate the genetic and environmental contributions to a person's nature orientation, opportunity (living in less urbanized areas), and different dimensions of nature experience (frequency and duration of public nature space visits and frequency and duration of garden visits). We estimate moderate heritability of nature orientation (46%) and nature experiences (48% for frequency of public nature space visits, 34% for frequency of garden visits, and 38% for duration of garden visits) and show their genetic components partially overlap. We also find that the environmental influences on nature experiences are moderated by the level of urbanization of the home district. Our study demonstrates genetic contributions to individuals' nature experiences, opening a new dimension for the study of human-nature interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Chen Chang
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Daniel T C Cox
- Environment & Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, United Kingdom
| | - Qiao Fan
- Centre for Quantitative Medicine, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | | | - Claudia L Y Tan
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rachel Rui Ying Oh
- School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Brenda B Lin
- CSIRO Land & Water Flagship, Dutton Park, Queensland, Australia
| | - Danielle F Shanahan
- Centre for People and Nature, Zealandia Ecosanctuary, Wellington, New Zealand.,Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Richard A Fuller
- School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Kevin J Gaston
- Environment & Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, United Kingdom
| | - L Roman Carrasco
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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6
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Safari O, Ejtahed HS, Namazi N, Heshmat R, Arjmand R, Karbalahi Saleh S, Seif E, Shahsanai A, Motlagh ME, Esmaeili Abdar M, Qorbani M, Kelishadi R. Association of short stature and obesity with cardio-metabolic risk factors in Iranian children and adolescents: the CASPIAN-V study. J Diabetes Metab Disord 2021; 20:1137-1144. [PMID: 34900767 DOI: 10.1007/s40200-021-00831-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The object of the present study was to examine the relationship of short stature and obesity with cardio-metabolic risk factors in children and adolescents from Iran. Methods Present nationwide cross-sectional study was conducted as a part of the fifth survey of CASPIAN study on 7 to 18 years old children and adolescents from 30 provinces of Iran in 2015. Short stature and excess weight were defined as age and sex-specific height lower than 5th percentile and BMI higher than 85th percentile respectively. The multivariate logistic regression model was applied to assess the aim of the study. Results A total of 3844 children and adolescents (52.4%: boys, 72.2%: urban areas) with an average age of 12.45 ± 3.04 years were enrolled in this study. The prevalence of short stature, excess weight and combined-short stature and excess weight was estimated as 15.8%, 17.6% and 2.2%. Odds of abdominal obesity in children with only short stature (OR: 2.11, 95%CI: 1.59-2.80), only excess weight (OR: 17.38, 95%CI: 13.89-21.75) and combined-short stature and excess weight (OR: 22.83, 95%CI: 13.93-37.39) were higher than children with normal-height and weight. Moreover, odds of high BP and metabolic syndrome were further in the students with combined excess weight and short stature compared to the normal-height and weight group. Conclusion We found that abdominal obesity, hypertension, and metabolic syndrome in short stature and obese children and adolescents were greater than those with normal-height and weight. Further prospective evaluations are required to clarify the association between short stature and cardio-metabolic risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omid Safari
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Hanieh-Sadat Ejtahed
- Obesity and Eating Habits Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nazli Namazi
- Diabetes Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramin Heshmat
- Chronic Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Arjmand
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Shahrokh Karbalahi Saleh
- Department of Cardiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Seif
- Student Research Committee, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Armindokht Shahsanai
- Child Growth and Development Research Center, Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-Communicable Disease, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Esmaeili Abdar
- Dietary Supplements and Probiotic Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mostafa Qorbani
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.,Chronic Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roya Kelishadi
- Child Growth and Development Research Center, Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-Communicable Disease, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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7
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Zhu Z, Zhao X, OuYang Q, Wang Y, Xiong Y, Cong S, Zhou M, Zhang M, Luo X, Cheng M. Waterfall Forest Environment Regulates Chronic Stress via the NOX4/ROS/NF-κB Signaling Pathway. Front Neurol 2021; 12:619728. [PMID: 33868142 PMCID: PMC8044934 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.619728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Forest therapy has been proven to have beneficial effects on people with depression and anxiety. However, it remains unknown whether the waterfall forest environment (WF) affects the physical and psychological health of patients with chronic fatigue and how the WF regulates chronic stress. Methods: Twenty-four patients with chronic fatigue were randomly divided into two groups: the WF group and the urban (U) group. Scores on the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), and Fatigue Scale-14 (FS-14) were evaluated before and after environmental intervention. Detection of physiological indexes and inflammatory factor levels and immunological analysis were also performed. In addition, the chronic stress rat model was constructed, and the effects of the WF on hopelessness and liver damage of rats were investigated. Results: Patients with chronic fatigue in the WF group showed a significant decrease in FS-14, HAMA, and HAMD scores compared with the U group. The expression levels of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase were remarkably higher in the WF group than in the U group. However, the expression levels of malondialdehyde and inflammatory factors (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10) were remarkably decreased after the intervention of the WF. In addition, animal experiments confirmed that the WF improved hopelessness, liver damage, and excitability of neurons of chronic stress rats. Mechanistically, the WF reduced the liver damage caused by chronic stress in rats by inhibiting the NOX4/ROS/NF-κB signaling pathway. Conclusions: Collectively, the WF had a positive effect on immune enhancement and physical and psychological health in patients with chronic fatigue and might inhibit chronic stress by regulating the NOX4/ROS/NF-κB signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixin Zhu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Xueke Zhao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Qiuyue OuYang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Yinghui Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Yan Xiong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Shuo Cong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Mingyu Zhou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Manman Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Xinhua Luo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Mingliang Cheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
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8
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Oh RYR, Fielding KS, Nghiem TPL, Chang C, Shanahan DF, Gaston KJ, Carrasco RL, Fuller RA. Factors influencing nature interactions vary between cities and types of nature interactions. PEOPLE AND NATURE 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/pan3.10181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rui Ying Rachel Oh
- School of Biological Sciences University of Queensland Brisbane Qld Australia
| | - Kelly S. Fielding
- School of Communication and Arts University of Queensland Brisbane Qld Australia
| | | | - Chia‐Chen Chang
- Department of Biological Sciences National University of Singapore Singapore
| | | | - Kevin J. Gaston
- Environment & Sustainability Institute University of Exeter Cornwall UK
| | - Roman L. Carrasco
- Department of Biological Sciences National University of Singapore Singapore
| | - Richard A. Fuller
- School of Biological Sciences University of Queensland Brisbane Qld Australia
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9
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Nature Exposure and Its Effects on Immune System Functioning: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18041416. [PMID: 33546397 PMCID: PMC7913501 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18041416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Given the drastic changes in our lifestyles and ecosystems worldwide, the potential health effects of natural environments have grown into a highly pervasive topic. Recent scientific findings suggest beneficial effects from nature exposure on human immune responses. This review aims at providing a comprehensive overview of literature published on immunomodulatory effects of nature exposure by inhalation of natural substances. A systematic database search was performed in SCOPUS and PubMed. The quality and potential bias of included studies (n = 33) were assessed by applying the EPHPP (Effective Public Health Practice Project) tool for human studies and the ARRIVE (Animal Research: Reporting of In Vivo Experiments) and SYRCLE (Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory Animal Experimentation) tools for animal studies. The synthesis of reviewed studies points to positive effects of nature exposure on immunological health parameters; such as anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-asthmatic effects or increased NK (natural killer) cell activity. Decreased expression of pro-inflammatory molecules, infiltration of leukocytes and release of cytotoxic mediators are outcomes that may serve as a baseline for further studies. However, partially weak study designs evoked uncertainties about outcome reproducibility and key questions remain open concerning effect sizes, duration of exposure and contributions of specific vegetation or ecosystem types.
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10
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Gandy S, Forstmann M, Carhart-Harris RL, Timmermann C, Luke D, Watts R. The potential synergistic effects between psychedelic administration and nature contact for the improvement of mental health. Health Psychol Open 2020; 7:2055102920978123. [PMID: 33335742 PMCID: PMC7724423 DOI: 10.1177/2055102920978123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic psychedelic administration and contact with nature have been
associated with the same psychological mechanisms: decreased
rumination and negative affect, enhanced psychological connectedness
and mindfulness-related capacities, and heightened states of awe and
transcendent experiences, all processes linked to improvements in
mental health amongst clinical and healthy populations. Nature-based
settings can have inherently psychologically soothing properties which
may complement all stages of psychedelic therapy (mainly preparation
and integration) whilst potentiating increases in nature relatedness,
with associated psychological benefits. Maximising enhancement of
nature relatedness through therapeutic psychedelic administration may
constitute an independent and complementary pathway towards
improvements in mental health that can be elicited by
psychedelics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Gandy
- Centre for Psychedelic Research,
Imperial College London, UK
- Synthesis Institute, The
Netherlands
- Sam Gandy, Synthesis Institute B.V.,
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 12, 1017 RC Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | - David Luke
- Centre for Psychedelic Research,
Imperial College London, UK
- University of Greenwich, UK
| | - Rosalind Watts
- Centre for Psychedelic Research,
Imperial College London, UK
- Synthesis Institute, The
Netherlands
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11
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Abstract
Nature provides significant benefits to people, especially those living in and around protected areas. Ecosystem services from protected areas include producing wild food, supporting biodiversity and water cycles, regulating climate, and providing cultural services like better health, tourism, and legacy for future generations. In economic terms, the flows of ecosystem services provided by protected areas are worth hundreds of billions of dollars each year, well justifying the costs of managing these sites, but protected areas are suffering from environmental problems such as impacts from human population growth, rural poverty, growing demands for natural resources, land use change that degrades ecosystem productivity, invasive non-native species that harm natural ecosystems, and climate change that is affecting all ecosystems. Addressing these linked challenges will require mobilizing all parts of the economy, including the protected area estate. For example, protected areas can take a leadership role in rural development, expand the conservation estate to half of the planet through connectivity and improved management of more of the non-agricultural land, enhance the prominent role of protected areas in contributing to climate change mitigation and adaptation, encourage productive research on applying modern technology to protected areas management, seek broader private sector participation in conserving biodiversity and ecosystem services, and include protected areas as relevant parties in relevant trade and other international negotiations. When protected area managers embrace this broader role, they will find enthusiastic public support for this contribution to a sustainable human society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A McNeely
- Society for Conservation Biology Asia Section, Cha-Am, Petchburi, Thailand
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12
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Prescott SL, Bland JS. Spaceship Earth Revisited: The Co-Benefits of Overcoming Biological Extinction of Experience at the Level of Person, Place and Planet. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17041407. [PMID: 32098222 PMCID: PMC7068540 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17041407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Extensive research underscores that we interpret the world through metaphors; moreover, common metaphors are a useful means to enhance the pursuit of personal and collective goals. In the context of planetary health—defined as the interdependent vitality of all natural and anthropogenic ecosystems (social, political and otherwise)—one enduring metaphor can be found in the concept of “Spaceship Earth”. Although not without criticism, the term “Spaceship Earth” has been useful to highlight both resource limitations and the beauty and fragility of delicate ecosystems that sustain life. Rene Dubos, who helped popularize the term, underscored the need for an exposome perspective, one that examines the total accumulated environmental exposures (both detrimental and beneficial) that predict the biological responses of the “total organism to the total environment” over time. In other words, how large-scale environmental changes affect us all personally, albeit in individualized ways. This commentary focuses the ways in which microbes, as an essential part of all ecosystems, provide a vital link between personal and planetary systems, and mediate the biopsychosocial aspects of our individualized experience—and thus health—over our life course journey. A more fine-grained understanding of these dynamics and our power to change them, personally and collectively, lies at the core of restoring “ecosystems balance” for person, place and planet. In particular, restoring human connectedness to the natural world, sense of community and shared purpose must occur in tandem with technological solutions, and will enhance individual empowerment for personal well-being, as well as our collective potential to overcome our grand challenges. Such knowledge can help shape the use of metaphor and re-imagine solutions and novel ways for restoration or rewilding of ecosystems, and the values, behaviors and attitudes to light the path toward exiting the Anthropocene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan L. Prescott
- The ORIGINS Project, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
- inVIVO Planetary Health of the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN), West New York, NJ 10704, USA;
- Correspondence:
| | - Jeffrey S. Bland
- inVIVO Planetary Health of the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN), West New York, NJ 10704, USA;
- Personalized Lifestyle Medicine Institute, Tacoma, WA 98443, USA
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13
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Kettner H, Gandy S, Haijen ECHM, Carhart-Harris RL. From Egoism to Ecoism: Psychedelics Increase Nature Relatedness in a State-Mediated and Context-Dependent Manner. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E5147. [PMID: 31888300 PMCID: PMC6949937 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16245147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
(1) Background: There appears to be a growing disconnection between humans and their natural environments which has been linked to poor mental health and ecological destruction. Previous research suggests that individual levels of nature relatedness can be increased through the use of classical psychedelic compounds, although a causal link between psychedelic use and nature relatedness has not yet been established. (2) Methods: Using correlations and generalized linear mixed regression modelling, we investigated the association between psychedelic use and nature relatedness in a prospective online study. Individuals planning to use a psychedelic received questionnaires 1 week before (N = 654), plus one day, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 2 years after a psychedelic experience. (3) Results: The frequency of lifetime psychedelic use was positively correlated with nature relatedness at baseline. Nature relatedness was significantly increased 2 weeks, 4 weeks and 2 years after the psychedelic experience. This increase was positively correlated with concomitant increases in psychological well-being and was dependent on the extent of ego-dissolution and the perceived influence of natural surroundings during the acute psychedelic state. (4) Conclusions: The here presented evidence for a context- and state-dependent causal effect of psychedelic use on nature relatedness bears relevance for psychedelic treatment models in mental health and, in the face of the current ecological crisis, planetary health.
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14
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Flies EJ, Skelly C, Lovell R, Breed MF, Phillips D, Weinstein P. Cities, biodiversity and health: we need healthy urban microbiome initiatives. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/23748834.2018.1546641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emily J. Flies
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Chris Skelly
- Public Health Dorset, Dorset County Council, Dorchester, UK
| | - Rebecca Lovell
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, UK
| | - Martin F. Breed
- School of Biological Sciences and the Environment Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - David Phillips
- Public Health Dorset, Dorset County Council, Dorchester, UK
| | - Philip Weinstein
- School of Biological Sciences and the Environment Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
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15
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Song C, Ikei H, Nara M, Takayama D, Miyazaki Y. Physiological Effects of Viewing Bonsai in Elderly Patients Undergoing Rehabilitation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15122635. [PMID: 30477254 PMCID: PMC6313335 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15122635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Revised: 11/17/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The benefits of various nature-derived stimuli that can be used for stress relief and relaxation has recently gained immense attention; however, there are very few studies about their influence on elderly patients. The present study aims to present the effects of viewing bonsai on autonomic nervous activity, prefrontal cortex activity, and subjective assessment findings of psychological relaxation in elderly patients undergoing rehabilitation. Fourteen participants aged 64⁻91 years (mean age ± standard deviation, 78.6 ± 9.6 years) participated in this study. Miniature potted 10-year-old Japanese cypress bonsai trees were used as visual stimuli. Participants viewed the bonsai for 1 min, and the control comprised of no experimental stimulus. Physiological effects on autonomic nervous activity were assessed by measuring the heart rate variability (HRV) and pulse rate. The effects on prefrontal cortex activity were determined using near-infrared spectroscopy, which involved assessment of oxyhemoglobin concentrations in the left and right prefrontal cortices. Subjective evaluations were achieved by the modified semantic differential method. Viewing bonsai resulted in a significant increase in parasympathetic nervous activity, a significant decrease in sympathetic nervous activity, and a significant increase in the perceptions of feeling "comfortable" and "relaxed." In conclusion, our findings indicated that viewing bonsai induces physiological and psychological relaxation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chorong Song
- Center for Environment, Health and Field Sciences, Chiba University, 6-2-1 Kashiwa-no-ha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan.
| | - Harumi Ikei
- Center for Environment, Health and Field Sciences, Chiba University, 6-2-1 Kashiwa-no-ha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan.
- Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute, 1 Matsunosato, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8687, Japan.
| | - Masahiro Nara
- Rehabilitation Center, Noda Hospital, 1554-1 Nakazato, Noda, Chiba 270-0237, Japan.
| | - Daisuke Takayama
- Rehabilitation Center, Noda Hospital, 1554-1 Nakazato, Noda, Chiba 270-0237, Japan.
| | - Yoshifumi Miyazaki
- Center for Environment, Health and Field Sciences, Chiba University, 6-2-1 Kashiwa-no-ha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan.
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16
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Dysbiotic drift and biopsychosocial medicine: how the microbiome links personal, public and planetary health. Biopsychosoc Med 2018; 12:7. [PMID: 29743938 PMCID: PMC5932796 DOI: 10.1186/s13030-018-0126-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The emerging concept of planetary health emphasizes that the health of human civilization is intricately connected to the health of natural systems within the Earth’s biosphere; here, we focus on the rapidly progressing microbiome science - the microbiota-mental health research in particular - as a way to illustrate the pathways by which exposure to biodiversity supports health. Microbiome science is illuminating the ways in which stress, socioeconomic disadvantage and social polices interact with lifestyle and behaviour to influence the micro and macro-level biodiversity that otherwise mediates health. Although the unfolding microbiome and mental health research is dominated by optimism in biomedical solutions (e.g. probiotics, prebiotics), we focus on the upstream psychosocial and ecological factors implicated in dysbiosis; we connect grand scale biodiversity in the external environment with differences in human-associated microbiota, and, by extension, differences in immune function and mental outlook. We argue that the success of planetary health as a new concept will be strengthened by a more sophisticated understanding of the ways in which individuals develop emotional connections to nature (nature relatedness) and the social policies and practices which facilitate or inhibit the pro-environmental values that otherwise support personal, public and planetary health.
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17
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Edwards A, Woods V. Forest-based Therapy: Research Letter of a Novel Regime for Improved Respiratory Health. Integr Med (Encinitas) 2018; 17:58-60. [PMID: 30962777 PMCID: PMC6380986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Nature-based therapies are well documented. However, forest-based therapy for respiratory health is still an innovative treatment. Our subject reports respiratory problems and forest walking, suggesting that improved respiratory health may be another positive outcome of forest-based therapies, when associated with activities that increase parasympathetic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Victor Woods
- Corresponding author: Victor Woods, MES E-mail address:
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18
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Song C, Ikei H, Miyazaki Y. Physiological Effects of Visual Stimulation with Forest Imagery. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:E213. [PMID: 29373558 PMCID: PMC5858282 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15020213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Revised: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This study was aimed to clarify the physiological effects of visual stimulation using forest imagery on activity of the brain and autonomic nervous system. Seventeen female university students (mean age, 21.1 ± 1.0 years) participated in the study. As an indicator of brain activity, oxyhemoglobin (oxy-Hb) concentrations were measured in the left and right prefrontal cortex using near-infrared time-resolved spectroscopy. Heart rate variability (HRV) was used as an indicator of autonomic nervous activity. The high-frequency (HF) component of HRV, which reflected parasympathetic nervous activity, and the ratio of low-frequency (LF) and high-frequency components (LF/HF), which reflected sympathetic nervous activity, were measured. Forest and city (control) images were used as visual stimuli using a large plasma display window. After sitting at rest viewing a gray background for 60 s, participants viewed two images for 90 s. During rest and visual stimulation, HRV and oxy-Hb concentration in the prefrontal cortex were continuously measured. Immediately thereafter, subjective evaluation of feelings was performed using a modified semantic differential (SD) method. The results showed that visual stimulation with forest imagery induced (1) a significant decrease in oxy-Hb concentrations in the right prefrontal cortex and (2) a significant increase in perceptions of feeling "comfortable," "relaxed," and "natural."
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Affiliation(s)
- Chorong Song
- Center for Environment, Health and Field Sciences, Chiba University, 6-2-1 Kashiwa-no-ha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan.
| | - Harumi Ikei
- Center for Environment, Health and Field Sciences, Chiba University, 6-2-1 Kashiwa-no-ha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan.
- Department of Wood Engineering, Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute, 1 Matsunosato, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8687, Japan.
| | - Yoshifumi Miyazaki
- Center for Environment, Health and Field Sciences, Chiba University, 6-2-1 Kashiwa-no-ha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan.
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19
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Liddicoat C, Bi P, Waycott M, Glover J, Lowe AJ, Weinstein P. Landscape biodiversity correlates with respiratory health in Australia. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2018; 206:113-122. [PMID: 29059566 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2017.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2017] [Revised: 09/12/2017] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Megatrends of urbanisation and reducing contact with natural environments may pose a largely unappreciated risk to human health, particularly in children, through declining normal (healthy) immunomodulatory environmental exposures. On the other hand, building knowledge of connections between environments, biodiversity and human health may offer new integrated ways of addressing global challenges of rising population health costs and declining biodiversity. In this study we are motivated to build insight and provide context and priority for emerging research into potential protective (e.g. immunomodulatory) environmental exposures. We use respiratory health as a test case to explore whether some types and qualities of environment may be more beneficial than others, and how such exposures may compare to known respiratory health influences, via a cross-sectional ecological epidemiology study for the continent of Australia. Using Lasso penalized regression (to interpret key predictors from many candidate variables) and 10-fold cross-validation modelling (to indicate reproducibility and uncertainty), within different socio-geographic settings, our results show surrogate measures of landscape biodiversity correlate with respiratory health, and rank amongst known predictors. A range of possible drivers for this relationship are discussed. Perhaps most novel and interesting of these is the possibility of protective immunomodulatory influence from microbial diversity (suggested by the understudied 'biodiversity hypothesis') and other bioactive agents associated with biodiverse environments. If beneficial influences can be demonstrated from biodiverse environments on immunomodulation and human health, there may be potential to design new cost-effective nature-based health intervention programs to reduce the risk of immune-related disease at a population level. Our approach and findings are also likely to have use in the evaluation of environment and health associations elsewhere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig Liddicoat
- School of Biological Sciences and the Environment Institute, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources, GPO Box 1047, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia.
| | - Peng Bi
- School of Public Health, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Michelle Waycott
- School of Biological Sciences and the Environment Institute, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources, GPO Box 1047, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
| | - John Glover
- Public Health Information Development Unit, Torrens University Australia, Level 1, 200 Victoria Square, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Andrew J Lowe
- School of Biological Sciences and the Environment Institute, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Philip Weinstein
- School of Biological Sciences and the Environment Institute, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
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20
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Song C, Igarashi M, Ikei H, Miyazaki Y. Physiological effects of viewing fresh red roses. Complement Ther Med 2017; 35:78-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2017.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Revised: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
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21
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Abstract
There is an urgent global need for accessible and cost-effective pro-mental health infrastructure. Public green spaces were officially designated in the 19th century, informed by a belief that they might provide health benefits. We outline modern research evidence that greenspace can play a pivotal role in population-level mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo Barton
- School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, Essex, UK, email
| | - Mike Rogerson
- School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, Essex, UK, email
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22
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Kühn S, Düzel S, Eibich P, Krekel C, Wüstemann H, Kolbe J, Martensson J, Goebel J, Gallinat J, Wagner GG, Lindenberger U. In search of features that constitute an "enriched environment" in humans: Associations between geographical properties and brain structure. Sci Rep 2017; 7:11920. [PMID: 28931835 PMCID: PMC5607225 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-12046-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Enriched environments elicit brain plasticity in animals. In humans it is unclear which environment is enriching. Living in a city has been associated with increased amygdala activity in a stress paradigm, and being brought up in a city with increased pregenual anterior cingulate cortex (pACC) activity. We set out to identify geographical characteristics that constitute an enriched environment affecting the human brain. We used structural equation modelling on 341 older adults to establish three latent brain factors (amygdala, pACC and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC)) to test the effects of forest, urban green, water and wasteland around the home address. Our results reveal a significant positive association between the coverage of forest and amygdala integrity. We conclude that forests may have salutogenic effects on the integrity of the amygdala. Since cross-sectional data does not allow causal inference it could also be that individuals with high structural integrity choose to live closer to forest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Kühn
- Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Center for Lifespan Psychology, Lentzeallee 94, 14195, Berlin, Germany. .,University Clinic Hamburg-Eppendorf, Clinic and Policlinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Sandra Düzel
- Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Center for Lifespan Psychology, Lentzeallee 94, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Peter Eibich
- German Institute for Economic Research, Mohrenstrasse 58, 10117, Berlin, Germany.,University of Oxfor The Health Economics Research Centre (HERC) Old Road Campus, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LF, UK
| | - Christian Krekel
- German Institute for Economic Research, Mohrenstrasse 58, 10117, Berlin, Germany.,Paris School of Ecoß 48 Boulevard Jourdan, 75014, Paris, France.,Centre for Economic Performance, London School of Economics, Houghton Street, London, WC2A 2AE, UK
| | - Henry Wüstemann
- Technical University Berlin, Institute for Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning Landscape Economics, Straße des 17. Juni 145, 10623, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jens Kolbe
- Technical University Berlin, Institute for Economics and Business Law, Econometrics and Business Statistics, Straße des 17. Juni 135, 10623, Berlin, Germany
| | - Johan Martensson
- Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Center for Lifespan Psychology, Lentzeallee 94, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Goebel
- German Institute for Economic Research, Mohrenstrasse 58, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jürgen Gallinat
- University Clinic Hamburg-Eppendorf, Clinic and Policlinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gert G Wagner
- Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Center for Lifespan Psychology, Lentzeallee 94, 14195, Berlin, Germany.,University of Oxfor The Health Economics Research Centre (HERC) Old Road Campus, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LF, UK.,Technical University Berlin, Institute for Economics and Business Law, Econometrics and Business Statistics, Straße des 17. Juni 135, 10623, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulman Lindenberger
- Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Center for Lifespan Psychology, Lentzeallee 94, 14195, Berlin, Germany.,European University Institute San Domenico, Fiesole, Italy
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23
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Prescott SL, Larcombe DL, Logan AC, West C, Burks W, Caraballo L, Levin M, Etten EV, Horwitz P, Kozyrskyj A, Campbell DE. The skin microbiome: impact of modern environments on skin ecology, barrier integrity, and systemic immune programming. World Allergy Organ J 2017; 10:29. [PMID: 28855974 PMCID: PMC5568566 DOI: 10.1186/s40413-017-0160-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Skin barrier structure and function is essential to human health. Hitherto unrecognized functions of epidermal keratinocytes show that the skin plays an important role in adapting whole-body physiology to changing environments, including the capacity to produce a wide variety of hormones, neurotransmitters and cytokine that can potentially influence whole-body states, and quite possibly, even emotions. Skin microbiota play an integral role in the maturation and homeostatic regulation of keratinocytes and host immune networks with systemic implications. As our primary interface with the external environment, the biodiversity of skin habitats is heavily influenced by the biodiversity of the ecosystems in which we reside. Thus, factors which alter the establishment and health of the skin microbiome have the potential to predispose to not only cutaneous disease, but also other inflammatory non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Indeed, disturbances of the stratum corneum have been noted in allergic diseases (eczema and food allergy), psoriasis, rosacea, acne vulgaris and with the skin aging process. The built environment, global biodiversity losses and declining nature relatedness are contributing to erosion of diversity at a micro-ecological level, including our own microbial habitats. This emphasises the importance of ecological perspectives in overcoming the factors that drive dysbiosis and the risk of inflammatory diseases across the life course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan L Prescott
- School of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Western Australia and Princess Margaret Hospital for Children, PO Box D184, Perth, WA 6001 Australia.,In-FLAME Global Network, of the World Universities Network (WUN), West New York, USA
| | - Danica-Lea Larcombe
- In-FLAME Global Network, of the World Universities Network (WUN), West New York, USA.,School of Science, Edith Cowan University, 270 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, WA 6027 Australia
| | - Alan C Logan
- In-FLAME Global Network, of the World Universities Network (WUN), West New York, USA
| | - Christina West
- In-FLAME Global Network, of the World Universities Network (WUN), West New York, USA.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Wesley Burks
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina USA
| | - Luis Caraballo
- Institute for Immunological Research, University of Cartagena, Cartagena, Colombia
| | - Michael Levin
- In-FLAME Global Network, of the World Universities Network (WUN), West New York, USA.,Division of Paediatric Allergy, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Eddie Van Etten
- School of Science, Edith Cowan University, 270 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, WA 6027 Australia
| | - Pierre Horwitz
- School of Science, Edith Cowan University, 270 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, WA 6027 Australia
| | - Anita Kozyrskyj
- In-FLAME Global Network, of the World Universities Network (WUN), West New York, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Dianne E Campbell
- In-FLAME Global Network, of the World Universities Network (WUN), West New York, USA.,Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia.,Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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24
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Buckley RC, Brough P. Economic Value of Parks via Human Mental Health: An Analytical Framework. Front Ecol Evol 2017. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2017.00016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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25
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Van den Berg AE. From Green Space to Green Prescriptions: Challenges and Opportunities for Research and Practice. Front Psychol 2017; 8:268. [PMID: 28289398 PMCID: PMC5326776 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.00268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 02/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Agnes E Van den Berg
- Department of Cultural Geography, Faculty of Spatial Sciences, University of Groningen Groningen, Netherlands
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26
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Grafetstätter C, Gaisberger M, Prossegger J, Ritter M, Kolarž P, Pichler C, Thalhamer J, Hartl A. Does waterfall aerosol influence mucosal immunity and chronic stress? A randomized controlled clinical trial. J Physiol Anthropol 2017; 36:10. [PMID: 28086991 PMCID: PMC5237191 DOI: 10.1186/s40101-016-0117-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The specific microclimate of alpine waterfalls with high levels of ionized water aerosols has been suggested to trigger beneficial immunological and psychological effects. In the present three-armed randomized controlled clinical study, we focused on effects on (i) immunological reagibility, on (ii) physiological stress responses, and on (iii) stress-related psychological parameters. METHODS People with moderate to high stress levels (n = 65) spent an active sojourn with daily hiking tours in the National Park Hohe Tauern (Großkirchheim, Austria). Half of the group was exposed to water aerosol of an alpine waterfall for 1 h/day (first arm, n = 33), whereas the other half spent the same time at a distant site (second arm, n = 32). A third arm (control, n = 26) had no intervention (except vaccination) and stayed at home, maintaining their usual lifestyle. The effect of the interventions on the immune system was tested by oral vaccination with an approved cholera vaccine and measuring specific salivary IgA antibody titers. Lung function was determined by peak expiratory flow measurement. Electric skin conductance, heart rate, and adaption of respiration rate were assessed as physiological stress parameters. Psychological stress-related parameters were analyzed by questionnaires and scales. RESULTS Compared to the control group, both intervention groups showed improvement of the lung function and of most physiological stress test parameters. Analysis of the mucosal immune response revealed a waterfall-specific beneficial effect with elevated IgA titers in the waterfall group. In line with these results, exposure to waterfall revealed an additional benefit concerning psychological parameters such as subjective stress perception (measured via visual analog scale), the Global Severity Index (GSI), and the Positive Symptom Total (PST). CONCLUSIONS Our study provides new data, which strongly support an "added value" of exposure to waterfall microclimate when combined with a therapeutic sojourn at high altitude including regular physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Grafetstätter
- Institute of Ecomedicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Strubergasse 22, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Martin Gaisberger
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Paracelsus Medical University, Strubergasse 22, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
- Gastein Research Institute, Paracelsus Medical University, Strubergasse 22, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
- Department for Radon Therapy Research, Ludwig Boltzmann Cluster for Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Strubergasse 22, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Johanna Prossegger
- Institute of Ecomedicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Strubergasse 22, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Markus Ritter
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Paracelsus Medical University, Strubergasse 22, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
- Gastein Research Institute, Paracelsus Medical University, Strubergasse 22, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
- Department for Radon Therapy Research, Ludwig Boltzmann Cluster for Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Strubergasse 22, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Predrag Kolarž
- Institute of Physics, University of Belgrade, Pregrevica 118, 11080 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Christina Pichler
- Institute of Ecomedicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Strubergasse 22, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Josef Thalhamer
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Str. 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Arnulf Hartl
- Institute of Ecomedicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Strubergasse 22, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
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27
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Prescott SL, Logan AC. Transforming Life: A Broad View of the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease Concept from an Ecological Justice Perspective. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:ijerph13111075. [PMID: 27827896 PMCID: PMC5129285 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13111075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Revised: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The influential scientist Rene J. Dubos (1901–1982) conducted groundbreaking studies concerning early-life environmental exposures (e.g., diet, social interactions, commensal microbiota, housing conditions) and adult disease. However, Dubos looked beyond the scientific focus on disease, arguing that “mere survival is not enough”. He defined mental health as fulfilling human potential, and expressed concerns about urbanization occurring in tandem with disappearing access to natural environments (and elements found within them); thus modernity could interfere with health via “missing exposures”. With the advantage of emerging research involving green space, the microbiome, biodiversity and positive psychology, we discuss ecological justice in the dysbiosphere and the forces—financial inequity, voids in public policy, marketing and otherwise—that interfere with the fundamental rights of children to thrive in a healthy urban ecosystem and learn respect for the natural environment. We emphasize health within the developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD) rubric and suggest that greater focus on positive exposures might uncover mechanisms of resiliency that contribute to maximizing human potential. We will entrain our perspective to socioeconomic disadvantage in developed nations and what we have described as “grey space”; this is a mental as much as a physical environment, a space that serves to insidiously reinforce unhealthy behavior, compromise positive psychological outlook and, ultimately, trans-generational health. It is a dwelling place that cannot be fixed with encephalobiotics or the drug-class known as psychobiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan L Prescott
- International Inflammation (in-FLAME) Network, Worldwide Universities Network (WUN), 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley 6009, Australia.
- School of Paediatrics and Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, P.O. Box D184, Princess Margaret Hospital, Perth 6001, Australia.
| | - Alan C Logan
- International Inflammation (in-FLAME) Network, Worldwide Universities Network (WUN), 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley 6009, Australia.
- PathLight Synergy, 23679 Calabassas Road, Suite 542, Calabassas, CA 91302, USA.
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28
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Biodiversity, the Human Microbiome and Mental Health: Moving toward a New Clinical Ecology for the 21st Century? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1155/2016/2718275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Advances in research concerning the brain-related influences of the microbiome have been paradigm shifting, although at an early stage, clinical research involving beneficial microbes lends credence to the notion that the microbiome may be an important target in supporting mental health (defined here along the continuum between quality of life and the criteria for specific disorders). Through metagenomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and systems biology, a new emphasis to personalized medicine is on the horizon. Humans can now be viewed as multispecies organisms operating within an ecological theatre; it is important that clinicians increasingly see their patients in this context. Historically marginalized ecological aspects of health are destined to become an important consideration in the new frontiers of practicing medicine with the microbiome in mind. Emerging evidence indicates that macrobiodiversity in the external environment can influence mental well-being. Local biodiversity may also drive differences in human-associated microbiota; microbial diversity as a product of external biodiversity may have far-reaching effects on immune function and mood. With a focus on the microbiome as it pertains to mental health, we define environmental “grey space” and emphasize a new frontier involving bio-eco-psychological medicine. Within this concept the ecological terrain can link dysbiotic lifestyles and biodiversity on the grand scale to the local human-associated microbial ecosystems that might otherwise seem far removed from one another.
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29
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Song C, Ikei H, Miyazaki Y. Physiological Effects of Nature Therapy: A Review of the Research in Japan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:E781. [PMID: 27527193 PMCID: PMC4997467 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13080781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2016] [Revised: 07/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Humans have evolved into what they are today after the passage of 6-7 million years. If we define the beginning of urbanization as the rise of the industrial revolution, less than 0.01% of our species' history has been spent in modern surroundings. Humans have spent over 99.99% of their time living in the natural environment. The gap between the natural setting, for which our physiological functions are adapted, and the highly urbanized and artificial setting that we inhabit is a contributing cause of the "stress state" in modern people. In recent years, scientific evidence supporting the physiological effects of relaxation caused by natural stimuli has accumulated. This review aimed to objectively demonstrate the physiological effects of nature therapy. We have reviewed research in Japan related to the following: (1) the physiological effects of nature therapy, including those of forests, urban green space, plants, and wooden material and (2) the analyses of individual differences that arise therein. The search was conducted in the PubMed database using various keywords. We applied our inclusion/exclusion criteria and reviewed 52 articles. Scientific data assessing physiological indicators, such as brain activity, autonomic nervous activity, endocrine activity, and immune activity, are accumulating from field and laboratory experiments. We believe that nature therapy will play an increasingly important role in preventive medicine in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chorong Song
- Center for Environment, Health and Field Sciences, Chiba University, 6-2-1 Kashiwa-no-ha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan.
| | - Harumi Ikei
- Center for Environment, Health and Field Sciences, Chiba University, 6-2-1 Kashiwa-no-ha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan.
| | - Yoshifumi Miyazaki
- Center for Environment, Health and Field Sciences, Chiba University, 6-2-1 Kashiwa-no-ha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan.
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