1
|
Piva G, Caruso L, Gómez AC, Calzolari M, Visintin EP, Davoli P, Manfredini F, Storari A, Spinozzi P, Lamberti N. Effects of forest walking on physical and mental health in elderly populations: a systematic review. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2024; 39:121-136. [PMID: 36239186 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2022-0093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
There is a growing awareness that spending time in nature is associated with improvement of well-being; nevertheless, the prescription of forest bathing is still limited. The aim of this systematic review was to explore the physiological and psychological benefits of different forest therapies on healthy and pathological elderly populations (>60 years) to identify the most-effective type, duration, and frequency of these interventions. A search for literature was carried out in December 2021 using PubMed, EMBASE, ResearchGate, Google Scholar and Web of Science. Grey literature was searched as well. After removal of the duplicates, within the 214 articles identified, ten met the inclusion criteria. The methodological quality of the selected studies was rated. Forest walking, alone and in combination with other activities is the most effective intervention. The selected studies reported a positive impact on physical components, including reduction in blood pressure and heart rate and improvements in cardiopulmonary and neurochemical parameters. Favorable modifications have also been noted in the psychological field, with improvements in depression, stress levels and in quality of life perception. In conclusion, forest walking may play an important role in promoting physical and mental health in healthy and pathological elderly populations. However, the lack of high-quality studies limits the strength of the results, calling for more trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Piva
- PhD Program in Environmental Sustainability and Wellbeing, Department of Humanities, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Caruso
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Prevention, University of Ferrara Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alberto Cruz Gómez
- Freelance researcher; previously master Degree in Preventive and Adapted Phyisical Sciences, University of Ferrara Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marta Calzolari
- Architettura>Energia Research Centre, Department of Architecture, University of Ferrara Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Pietromaria Davoli
- Architettura>Energia Research Centre, Department of Architecture, University of Ferrara Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fabio Manfredini
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara Ferrara, Italy
- Unit of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University Hospital of Ferrara Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alda Storari
- Unit of Nephrology and Dialysis, University Hospital of Ferrara Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paola Spinozzi
- Department of Humanities, University of Ferrara Ferrara, Italy
| | - Nicola Lamberti
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Catissi G, Gouveia G, Savieto RM, Silva CPR, de Almeida RS, Borba GB, Rosario KA, Leão ER. Nature-Based Interventions Targeting Elderly People's Health and Well-Being: An Evidence Map. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:112. [PMID: 38276806 PMCID: PMC10815627 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21010112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthy aging encompasses more than the absence of disease, emphasizing the preservation of functional abilities for enhanced well-being and quality of life. Nature-based interventions are scientifically proven contributors to healthy aging. OBJECTIVE To develop an evidence map showcasing nature-based interventions targeting older individuals' health and well-being. METHODS The evidence map was developed through critical analysis of systematic reviews and clinical trials utilizing the tools AMSTAR2 and CONSORT. A systematic search spanning the past decade was conducted across databases: Cochrane, SCOPUS, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and LILACS. RESULTS Twelve articles met the eligibility criteria. Nature-based interventions such as forest bathing, hiking, therapeutic gardens, virtual reality, and forest sounds were identified. Outcomes were categorized into physical aspects (cardiovascular and pulmonary; neuro-immuno-endocrinological) and mental/behavioral aspects. The final map integrated interventions, outcomes, and quality assessments. CONCLUSIONS The survey highlights the positive impact of nature-based interventions on the health of the elderly. This study provides insights across various domains, fostering the development of programs and policies in management to promote healthy aging. Regarding healthcare, it encourages discourse among professionals regarding the integration of nature-based practices for equitable care in both individual and group settings. Furthermore, it underscores the need for research in the Southern Hemisphere, particularly in Brazil, where the study was conducted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Catissi
- Albert Einstein Israeli Faculty of Health Sciences, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo 05651-901, Brazil;
| | - Gabriela Gouveia
- A Beneficência Portuguesa de São Paulo, São Paulo 01323-001, Brazil;
| | - Roberta Maria Savieto
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Education and Research Center, São Paulo 05651-901, Brazil;
| | | | - Raquel Simões de Almeida
- Psychosocial Rehabilitation Laboratory (LabRP-CIR, ESS), Polytechnic of Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Gustavo Benvenutti Borba
- Department of Electronics-DAELN, Graduate School on Biomedical Engineering—PPGEB, Federal University of Technology-Paraná—UTFPR, Curitiba 80230-901, Brazil; (G.B.B.); (K.A.R.)
| | - Kaue Alves Rosario
- Department of Electronics-DAELN, Graduate School on Biomedical Engineering—PPGEB, Federal University of Technology-Paraná—UTFPR, Curitiba 80230-901, Brazil; (G.B.B.); (K.A.R.)
| | - Eliseth Ribeiro Leão
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Education and Research Center, São Paulo 05651-901, Brazil;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Vermeesch AL, Ellsworth-Kopkowski A, Prather JG, Passel C, Rogers HH, Hansen MM. Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing): A Scoping Review of the Global Research on the Effects of Spending Time in Nature. GLOBAL ADVANCES IN INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE AND HEALTH 2024; 13:27536130241231258. [PMID: 38420597 PMCID: PMC10901062 DOI: 10.1177/27536130241231258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Background This Scoping review (ScR) builds upon the 2017 review conducted by Hansen et al which contributed to evidence base shinrin-yoku (SY), also known as forest bathing (FB), has many positive health effects and is becoming a prescribed dose (specific time spent in nature) by health care providers. Practice and research regarding SY, has been historically based in Asian countries with a recent increase in Europe. The need and call for more research worldwide continues to further the evidence of SY as a health promotion modality. Through this ScR the authors identified programmatic components, health information monitored and screened, time spent in nature, geographical regions, trends, and themes in SY research worldwide. Methods Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines we searched across 7 electronic databases for SY or FB research articles from 2017 through 2022. PubMed, CINAHL, PsycInfo, ScienceDirect, SCOPUS, Embase, JSTOR were included due to the interdisciplinary nature of SY or FB research. Each database provided unique strengths ensuring a capture of a wide range of articles. The resulting articles were screened and extracted through Covidence. Results Database searches returned 241 results, with 110 references removed during the deduplication process, 131 were initially screened in the title and abstract review stage. Resulting in 82 unique results deemed relevant and screened in full text. During the final stage of the review, 63 articles met all inclusion criteria and were extracted for data. Conclusions The practice of SY has physiological (PHYS) and psychological (PSYCH) benefits across age groups. Research findings indicate either the natural or the virtual environment (VW) has significant health benefits. Continued research is encouraged globally for short- and long-term health outcomes for all individuals. The connection with nature benefits the mind, body and soul and is supported by Henry David Thoreau's philosophy: "Our livesneed the relief of where the pine flourishes and the jay still scream."
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amber L. Vermeesch
- Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration Coordinator, UNC Greensboro School of Nursing, Greensboro, NC, USA
| | | | - Jenifer G. Prather
- College of Nursing, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kim J, Park S, Kim KN, Ha Y, Shin SJ, Cha W, Lee KY, Choi J, Koo BN. Resting-state prefrontal EEG biomarker in correlation with postoperative delirium in elderly patients. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1224264. [PMID: 37818480 PMCID: PMC10561289 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1224264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Postoperative delirium (POD) is associated with adverse outcomes in elderly patients after surgery. Electroencephalography (EEG) can be used to develop a potential biomarker for degenerative cerebral dysfunctions, including mild cognitive impairment and dementia. This study aimed to explore the relationship between preoperative EEG and POD. We included 257 patients aged >70 years who underwent spinal surgery. We measured the median dominant frequency (MDF), which is a resting-state EEG biomarker involving intrinsic alpha oscillations that reflect an idle cortical state, from the prefrontal regions. Additionally, the mini-mental state examination and Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) were performed before surgery as well as 5 days after surgery. For long-term cognitive function follow up, the telephone interview for cognitive status™ (TICS) was performed 1 month and 1 year after surgery. Fifty-two (20.2%) patients were diagnosed with POD. A multivariable logistic regression analysis that included age, MoCA score, Charlson comorbidity index score, Mini Nutritional Assessment, and the MDF as variables revealed that the MDF had a significant odds ratio of 0.48 (95% confidence interval 0.27-0.85). Among the patients with POD, the postoperative neurocognitive disorders could last up to 1 year. Low MDF on preoperative EEG was associated with POD in elderly patients undergoing surgery. EEG could be a novel potential tool for identifying patients at a high risk of POD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeongmin Kim
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Anesthesia and Pain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sujung Park
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Anesthesia and Pain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Keung-Nyun Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Spine and Spinal Cord Institute, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Ha
- Department of Neurosurgery, Spine and Spinal Cord Institute, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- POSTECH Biotech Center, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Jun Shin
- Department of Biomedical Systems Informatics, Biostatistics Collaboration Unit, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Wonseok Cha
- Human Anti-Aging Standards Research Institute, Gyeongsangnam-Do, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-young Lee
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Anesthesia and Pain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jungmi Choi
- Human Anti-Aging Standards Research Institute, Gyeongsangnam-Do, Republic of Korea
| | - Bon-Nyeo Koo
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Anesthesia and Pain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Siah CJR, Goh YS, Lee J, Poon SN, Ow Yong JQY, Tam WSW. The effects of forest bathing on psychological well-being: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2023. [PMID: 36864583 DOI: 10.1111/inm.13131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
Globally, around half (55%) of the population live in fast-paced urban settings where many people find it challenging to manage their stress and respond to crises with a positive mindset. This resulted in prolonged distress where anxiety and fatigue caused physical and mental health concerns. Nature walks involving immersive exposure in the forest, and green spaces have been posited to offer physiological and psychological benefits. Therefore, in this systematic review, we evaluated the effects of forest bathing on psychological and physiological outcomes. We searched four English and five non-English databases (Chinese and Korean) for peer-reviewed studies published between January 2000 and March 2021. This review adhered to the recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis Statement 2020. The primary outcomes explored in this review were mainly psychological, including anxiety, depression, mood and quality of life. The secondary outcomes were physiological outcomes such as blood pressure and heart rate. We conducted a meta-analysis on each outcome using the random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed by the I2 statistic. Thirty-six articles (21 in English, 3 in Chinese and 12 in Korean) with 3554 participants were included in this review. Our meta-analysis suggested that forest bathing can significantly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. However, we did not observe as many benefits in physiological outcomes. Against the background of the negative effects of urbanization on mental well-being, this review highlighted the potential therapeutic role of forests in the contemporary world, lending further evidence-based support for forest conservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiew Jiat Rosalind Siah
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yong Shian Goh
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jungup Lee
- Department of Social Work, Faculty of Arts and Social Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sum Nok Poon
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jenna Qing Yun Ow Yong
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wai-San Wilson Tam
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Choi J, Ku B, Doan DNT, Park J, Cha W, Kim JU, Lee KH. Prefrontal EEG slowing, synchronization, and ERP peak latency in association with predementia stages of Alzheimer's disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1131857. [PMID: 37032818 PMCID: PMC10076640 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1131857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Early screening of elderly individuals who are at risk of dementia allows timely medical interventions to prevent disease progression. The portable and low-cost electroencephalography (EEG) technique has the potential to serve it. Objective We examined prefrontal EEG and event-related potential (ERP) variables in association with the predementia stages of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Methods One hundred elderly individuals were recruited from the GARD cohort. The participants were classified into four groups according to their amyloid beta deposition (A+ or A-) and neurodegeneration status (N+ or N-): cognitively normal (CN; A-N-, n = 27), asymptomatic AD (aAD; A + N-, n = 15), mild cognitive impairment (MCI) with AD pathology (pAD; A+N+, n = 16), and MCI with non-AD pathology (MCI(-); A-N+, n = 42). Prefrontal resting-state eyes-closed EEG measurements were recorded for five minutes and auditory ERP measurements were recorded for 8 min. Three variables of median frequency (MDF), spectrum triangular index (STI), and positive-peak latency (PPL) were employed to reflect EEG slowing, temporal synchrony, and ERP latency, respectively. Results Decreasing prefrontal MDF and increasing PPL were observed in the MCI with AD pathology. Interestingly, after controlling for age, sex, and education, we found a significant negative association between MDF and the aAD and pAD stages with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.58. Similarly, PPL exhibited a significant positive association with these AD stages with an OR of 2.36. Additionally, compared with the MCI(-) group, significant negative associations were demonstrated by the aAD group with STI and those in the pAD group with MDF with ORs of 0.30 and 0.42, respectively. Conclusion Slow intrinsic EEG oscillation is associated with MCI due to AD, and a delayed ERP peak latency is likely associated with general cognitive impairment. MCI individuals without AD pathology exhibited better cortical temporal synchronization and faster EEG oscillations than those with aAD or pAD. Significance The EEG/ERP variables obtained from prefrontal EEG techniques are associated with early cognitive impairment due to AD and non-AD pathology. This result suggests that prefrontal EEG/ERP metrics may serve as useful indicators to screen elderly individuals' early stages on the AD continuum as well as overall cognitive impairment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jungmi Choi
- Human Anti-Aging Standards Research Institute, Uiryeong-gun, Republic of Korea
| | - Boncho Ku
- Digital Health Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Dieu Ni Thi Doan
- Digital Health Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- School of Korean Convergence Medical Science, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Junwoo Park
- Gwangju Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias Cohort Research Center, Chosun University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Wonseok Cha
- Human Anti-Aging Standards Research Institute, Uiryeong-gun, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaeuk U. Kim
- Digital Health Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- School of Korean Convergence Medical Science, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- *Correspondence: Jaeuk U. Kim,
| | - Kun Ho Lee
- Gwangju Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias Cohort Research Center, Chosun University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science, Chosun University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
- Dementia Research Group, Korea Brain Research Institute, Daegu, Republic of Korea
- Kun Ho Lee,
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Martins AD, Fernandes O, Oliveira R, Bilro V, Lopes G, Rego AM, Parraça JA, Raimundo AMM, Brito JP. Effects of exercise programs on phase angle in older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2022; 103:104787. [PMID: 35961106 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2022.104787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to calculate the effects of exercise programs on phase angle (PhA) in older people. A systematic review was undertaken in multiple electronic databases in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses statement guidelines for the purposes of selecting randomized controlled trials that measured the effects of the exercise programs on PhA in older adults on 31 March 2022. We carried out a random-effect meta-analysis for the effects of exercise programs on PhA. Additionally, we analysed the differences between subgroups in terms of weekly frequency, number of sets and repetitions, and duration of interventions. Studies were methodological assessed through the PEDro scale where one had excellent, ten had good, and three had poor methodological quality. For the purposes of the study, fourteen studies met the criteria for inclusion. However, four studies did not have enough information to be included in the quantitative analysis. The remaining ten articles revealed moderate effects on PhA in favour of intervention groups (p=0.009, SMD=0.72 [0.46-0.99], I2=54%). The meta-analysis also showed that interventions lasting twelve weeks are more successful in generating positive effects on PhA as opposed to eight weeks (SMD's=0.79 vs. 0.64, respectively). These results indicate that resistance training (RT) is an effective and safe to improve PhA in the older people, especially through RT programs lasting from eight to twelve weeks. A novel finding of this study was that RT is the most used type of exercise by authors when assessing the PhA in older adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Duarte Martins
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, Largo dos Colegiais 2, 7004-516, Évora 7000-727, Portugal; Sports Science School of Rio Maior, Polytechnic Institute of Santarém, Rio Maior 2040-413, Portugal; Life Quality Research Centre, Rio Maior 2040-413, Portugal.
| | - Orlando Fernandes
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, Largo dos Colegiais 2, 7004-516, Évora 7000-727, Portugal
| | - Rafael Oliveira
- Sports Science School of Rio Maior, Polytechnic Institute of Santarém, Rio Maior 2040-413, Portugal; Life Quality Research Centre, Rio Maior 2040-413, Portugal; Research Centre in Sport Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development, Vila Real 5001-801, Portugal
| | - Vitor Bilro
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, Largo dos Colegiais 2, 7004-516, Évora 7000-727, Portugal
| | - Gabriel Lopes
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, Largo dos Colegiais 2, 7004-516, Évora 7000-727, Portugal
| | - António Maia Rego
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, Largo dos Colegiais 2, 7004-516, Évora 7000-727, Portugal
| | - José A Parraça
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, Largo dos Colegiais 2, 7004-516, Évora 7000-727, Portugal
| | - Armando Manuel Mendonça Raimundo
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, Largo dos Colegiais 2, 7004-516, Évora 7000-727, Portugal
| | - João Paulo Brito
- Sports Science School of Rio Maior, Polytechnic Institute of Santarém, Rio Maior 2040-413, Portugal; Life Quality Research Centre, Rio Maior 2040-413, Portugal; Research Centre in Sport Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development, Vila Real 5001-801, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Psycho-Electrophysiological Benefits of Forest Therapies Focused on Qigong and Walking with Elderly Individuals. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18063004. [PMID: 33804164 PMCID: PMC7999348 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18063004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
We developed two distinct forest therapy programs (FTPs) and compared their effects on dementia prevention and related health problems for older adults. One was focused on Qigong practice in the forest (QP) and the other involved active walking in the forest (WP). Both FTPs consisted of twelve 2-h sessions over six weeks and were conducted in an urban forest. We obtained data from 25, 18, and 26 participants aged 65 years or above for the QP, WP, and control groups, respectively. Neuropsychological scores via cognition (MoCA), geriatric depression (GDS) and quality of life (EQ-5D), and electrophysiological variables (electroencephalography, bioimpedance, and heart rate variability) were measured. We analyzed the intervention effects with a generalized linear model. Compared to the control group, the WP group showed benefits in terms of neurocognition (increases in the MoCA score, and alpha and beta band power values in the electroencephalogram), sympathetic nervous activity, and bioimpedance in the lower body. On the other hand, the QP group showed alleviated depression and an increased bioimpedance phase angle in the upper body. In conclusion, both active walking and Qigong in the forest were shown to have distinctive neuropsychological and electrophysiological benefits, and both had beneficial effects in terms of preventing dementia and relieving related health problems for elderly individuals.
Collapse
|
9
|
Choi J, Hong YS, Cha W, Mo HH, Park MG. Heart Rate Variability Analysis in Workers Exposed to Methyl Bromide as a Quarantine Treatment. J Occup Environ Med 2021; 63:e32-e38. [PMID: 33177473 PMCID: PMC7773168 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether methyl bromide (MB) fumigation work for plants imported in Korea affects workers' health by assessing heart rate variability (HRV). METHODS We measured HRV indices (TP, VLF, LF, HF, HR, SDNN, pNN50 and HRV-index) and urinary bromide ion (Br-) in 62 fumigators (study group) and 34 inspectors (the control group) before and after fumigation work. In addition, the relationship between Br- concentration and HRV indices was analysed. RESULTS The fumigators' post-work HRV indices and Br- level were changed compared with their pre-work values (P < 0.001). Conversely, inspectors' values were not shown a difference before and after work. The HRV indices in all subjects were negatively correlated with the Br- levels (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Fumigators with high Br- concentrations and low post-work HRV indices following MB fumigation work experienced adverse effects on their autonomic nervous systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jungmi Choi
- Human Anti-Aging Standards Research Institute, Uiryeong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea (Dr Choi, Mr Cha); Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Dong-A University, Busan, Republic of Korea (Dr Hong); Heavy Metal Exposure Environmental Health Center, Dong-A University, Busan, Republic of Korea (Dr Hong); Department of Plant Quarantine, Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (APQA), Gyeongsangbuk-do, Republic of Korea (Dr Mo, Mr Park); Institute of Agriculture and Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea (Mr Park)
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Choi J, Cha W, Park MG. Declining Trends of Heart Rate Variability According to Aging in Healthy Asian Adults. Front Aging Neurosci 2020; 12:610626. [PMID: 33324199 PMCID: PMC7726252 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2020.610626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart rate variability (HRV) indices correlate with aging and are related to the autonomic nervous system. However, the trend of HRV with age has not been explored for the Asian population. Therefore, we proposed a linear regression model of HRV indices that decreased with aging in healthy Asian adults. HRV parameters [High frequency (HF), Low frequency (LF), Very low frequency (VLF), Total power (TP), HRV triangular index (HRV-index), Standard deviation of the normal-to-normal interval (SDNN), and Proportion of normal-to-normal intervals greater than 50 ms (pNN50)] were measured in a total of 300 healthy participants (150 men and 150 women) aged 19-69 years stratified into five age groups: 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60-69 years comprising 60 people each in Seoul, South Korea. A simple regression analysis was performed to reveal the linear declining trend of HRV indices with age. Independent t-tests were conducted to investigate the gender differences in HRV values depending on each age group. The values of all HRV indices showed a decreasing trend with age in healthy Korean adults, as observed in the Western population (P < 0.001 for all indices); HF (Y = -0.039x + 6.833, R 2 = 0.287), LF (Y = -0.047x + 7.197, R 2 = 0.414), VLF (Y = -0.025x + 6.861, R 2 = 0.177), TP (Y = -0.034x + 8.082, R 2 = 0.352), HRV-index (Y = -0.125x + 15.628, R 2 = 0.298), SDNN (Y = -0.502x + 53.907, R 2 = 0.343), and pNN50 (Y = -0.650x + 53.852, R 2 = 0.345) all decreased with age. There was no significant gender difference in any HRV parameter. A linear regression model of various HRV indices has been presented considering the age of healthy Asians, which may be useful to prevent diseases related to the autonomic nervous system by estimating or tracking autonomic functional degeneration in the Asian population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jungmi Choi
- Human Anti-Aging Standards Research Institute, Uiryeong-gun, South Korea
| | - Wonseok Cha
- Human Anti-Aging Standards Research Institute, Uiryeong-gun, South Korea
| | - Min-Goo Park
- Department of Plant Quarantine, Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (APQA), Gimcheon-si, South Korea
- Institute of Agriculture and Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju-si, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Mobeen F, Sharma V, Prakash T. Comparative gut microbiome analysis of the Prakriti and Sasang systems reveals functional level similarities in constitutionally similar classes. 3 Biotech 2020; 10:379. [PMID: 32802721 PMCID: PMC7413973 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-020-02376-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The traditional medicinal systems (TMS) of India (Prakriti) and Korea (Sasang) classify human individuals based on their constitution determined by the physiological and psychological traits of individuals. Similarities in the constitutions are already found between the classes of Prakriti (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and Sasang (TE: Taeeumin, SE: Soeumin, and SY: Soyangin) systems. Gut health is an important aspect of this constitution based classification in TMS. To determine the role of gut microbes in such classifications, we have analyzed the gut microbiome (taxa and imputed functions) in the constitutionally similar Prakriti and Sasang classes. An enrichment of Bacteroides and Prevotella enterotypes is observed in the Sasang and Prakriti samples, respectively. The impact of the constitution is found to be more prominent with respect to the taxa and predicted-functions within the Prakriti classes. Gut microbiome functional-level similarities are found to correlate well with the host phenotypes of the constitutionally similar Prakriti and Sasang classes. An enrichment of carbohydrate and amino-acid metabolism is observed in the Vata and SE classes which may be responsible for meeting with their high energy demands and lean phenotype. The Pitta and SY classes exhibit the high capacity to metabolize toxins. An enrichment of functions responsible for predisposition to obesity and high drug metabolism is observed in the Kapha and TE classes. The contribution of gut adaptive functions is found to correlate with the constitution-based classification in both Prakriti and Sasang systems. The TE class harboured the highest number of biofilm-forming and stress-tolerant microbes thus exhibiting the maximum tolerance of environmental stress. Similarities in the gut microbiota and the resulting disease predisposition patterns are found to exist between the constitutionally matching Prakriti and Sasang classes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fauzul Mobeen
- School of Basic Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Kamand, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 175005 India
| | - Vikas Sharma
- School of Basic Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Kamand, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 175005 India
| | - Tulika Prakash
- School of Basic Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Kamand, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 175005 India
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Negative effect of methyl bromide fumigation work on the central nervous system. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0236694. [PMID: 32745138 PMCID: PMC7398500 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0236694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Methyl bromide (MB) is a fumigant that has been widely used for killing pests on plants in trade, soils, and structures worldwide due to its excellent permeability and insecticidal effect; however, MB should be replaced because it is an ozone-depleting substance. It is well-known that MB is highly toxic and hazardous to workers, but the effects of exposure in asymptomatic workers have not been explored. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of MB fumigation on the health of fumigators at a sensitive level. The electroencephalogram (EEG) and urinary bromide ion levels of 44 fumigators (the study group) and 20 inspectors (the control) were measured before and after fumigation work from February to August 2019 in Busan, Korea. The mean post-work concentration of bromide ion (18.311 μg/mg CRE) in the fumigators was significantly increased from the pre-work level (7.390 μg/mg CRE) (P<0.001). The fumigator post-work median frequencies (MDF) and alpha-to-theta ratios (ATR) of EEG index were significantly decreased compared to the pre-work values (P<0.05 for all indices). In contrast, there were no significant differences in inspector EEG indices and urinary bromide ion. The urinary bromide ion levels in all the subjects were negatively correlated with MDF (P = 0.032). In conclusion, fumigators’ EEG indices and urinary bromide ion suggested that occupational exposure to MB negatively affected the health of workers, although the workers were asymptomatic.
Collapse
|
13
|
Forest and Wellbeing: Bridging Medical and Forest Research for Effective Forest-Based Initiatives. FORESTS 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/f11080791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Research Highlights: This review gives an overview of existing literature on the emerging topic of human wellbeing-forest contact nexus and provides a preliminary framework linking forests to wellbeing by highlighting key variables affecting this relationship. Background and Objectives: Existing literature reveals the psychological, physiological and social wellbeing benefits of contact with forest ecosystems; however, the role of forests in this relationship remains largely unexplored. The objectives of this review are twofold: (i) to provide an overview of the contributions of forest experiences to human wellbeing and the related interplay with forest ecosystems and (ii) to identify knowledge gaps to inform future research and systematize information available for forest managers and planners to support the development of effective forest-based initiatives. Materials and Methods: A scoping review was performed with a five-phase method integrating a systematic approach on Scopus, Web of Science and PubMed databases and snowball search. Studies were analyzed using a descriptive-analytical method. Results: Overall, 93 papers were included in the review. These are mainly from health-related sciences providing limited information for forest managers, planners and practitioners. Four main underlying variables of the forest-wellbeing relationship are identified: interaction, forest features, sensorial dimension of the forest and individual traits and reactions. Conclusions: Forest-based initiatives provide good opportunities for supporting public health and time spent in contact with forests seems to have a “health-bonus”. Whether and to what extent forest management can contribute to this is still poorly investigated. There is the need to better study causal relationships between specific forest features, type of interactions, frequency and “dose” of experiences, individual reactions and needs and wellbeing effects to maximize benefits from forest-based initiatives.
Collapse
|