Rusie Dutton traditional Thai exercise promotes health related physical fitness and quality of life in menopausal women

ObjectiveTo examine the effects of “Rusie Dutton” on health and quality of life in menopausal women.MethodMenopausal women (aged 45–59) were recruited and randomly allocated to 2 groups. Rusie Dutton group (n = 24) practiced Rusie Dutton conducted by Wat Pho Thai Traditional Massage School for 13 weeks. The control group (n = 26) was assigned to a waiting list and received no intervention. BW, BMI, restingHR, BP, flexibility, VO₂max, and MENQOL including vasomotor, physical, psychosocial and sexual domains were measured at the beginning and the end. A paired-sample t-test and independent sample t-test were used for statistical analysis.ResultsSignificant improvement was found in all variables within group (p < .05) in Rusie Dutton group, and a significant difference between groups was found (p < .05) in all variables except BW and BMI. Therefore, it is concluded that the traditional Thai exercise Rusie Dutton can promote health related physical fitness and QOL in menopausal women.     

Pilot study of yoga for breast cancer survivors with poor quality of life

IntroductionStudies show benefits of yoga for breast cancer patients with poor quality of life (QOL); however, none exclusively focus on survivors. This study addresses whether hatha yoga improves breast cancer survivors' QOL.Methods25 breast cancer survivors completed six weeks of yoga. Outcome measures were 5 QOL categories evaluated using the FACT-B survey pre and post-intervention and after 6 months.ResultsEach category was evaluated independently, including: physical (PWB), social (SWB), emotional (EWB), functional (FWB), breast cancer specific well-being (BCS), Trial Outcome Index (TOI), FACT-G, and FACT-B. Significant improvement was found in all categories except social well-being (PWB p = .013, EWB p = .005, FWB p = .003, BCS p < .001, TOI p < .001, FACT-G p = .004, FACT-B p < .001). Patients with below average pre-intervention index scores (n = 13) showed greater improvement in EWB and FWB, while those with above average pre-intervention scores (n = 9) showed greater improvement in PWB.ConclusionsYoga may be feasible and clinically useful for breast cancer survivors with poor QOL.     

Effect of stay in a postpartum care institution on postpartum depression in women

IntroductionPregnancy and childbirth can cause substantial psychological and social changes and may lead to mental disorders. Women who are discharged directly from the maternity hospital after delivery without social support may have postpartum psychological health issues. Rarely have studies focused on the effect of postpartum care institutions on postpartum depression in women.MethodsWe conducted a longitudinal study in Taiwan from January 2017 to July 2018. The data were collected via questionnaires administered at four time points: the first trimester of pregnancy (n = 309), the second trimester of pregnancy (n = 269), the third trimester of pregnancy (n = 257) and six weeks postpartum (n = 252). Among the participants, 130 women stayed in e postpartum care institutions, while 122 did not stay in an institution. Analysis included student t test, chi-square test, and difference in differences analysis. Linear regression analysis was used to determine the independence of the related factors for postpartum depression.ResultsThe women who stayed at postpartum care institutions (n = 130) had a higher education status, higher income, higher percentage of assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment, higher cesarean section rate, and lower postpartum Edinburgh Perinatal Depression Scale (EPDS) scores (14.6% vs. 27.8%) compared with those who did not stay at postpartum care institutions. Among the women who stayed in postpartum care institutions, the average EPDS scores were 8.74 ± 0.46 and 8.15 ± 0.49 in the ART and natural pregnancy groups at baseline (3rd month), respectively, and there was no significant difference (p = 0.59). The EPDS scores in the ART group significantly declined at the 6th month (difference = −0.67, p<0.05), 9th month (difference = −2.00, p<0.01) and postpartum (difference = −4.01, p<0.01). Multivariate linear regression analysis indicated that postpartum care institutions was the main factor (r = 1.38, p = 0.014) correlating to postpartum depression in women.ConclusionProviding maternal and infant care in postpartum care institutions allows the mother to rest; and the professional guidance from the medical staff can provide the necessary support and help mothers to learn. Postpartum care institutions can decrease the incidence and severity of postpartum depression.     

Women's Perceptions of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Following Participation in a Clinical Research Study: Implications for Knowledge,Feelings, and Daily Health Practices

ObjectivePolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder that affects 6% to 10% of reproductive aged women. It is a poorly understood and often undiagnosed condition that has implications for the health of affected women. We assessed changes in knowledge, feelings, and daily health practices related to PCOS in clinical research study participants.MethodsSixty-eight women who had received counselling and education about PCOS while participating in a clinical research study were invited to complete an online survey that assessed levels of concern, knowledge, healthy dieting, active living, and health care satisfaction before and after the study. Differences and associations between scores were analyzed by paired t tests and Pearson correlation.ResultsForty-three women (63%) completed the survey. After taking part in a clinical research study, participants believed they had increased knowledge of (P < 0.001) and concern about (P = 0.029) the etiology and health consequences of PCOS, better lifestyle practices (P < 0.001), and improved health care satisfaction (P = 0.045). Enhanced knowledge of PCOS was positively associated with changes in concern (P = 0.045), healthy dietary habits (P = 0.04), activity levels (P = 0.003), and health care satisfaction (P < 0.001). After the study, women felt empowered to participate in the management of their condition and communicate with their primary care providers.ConclusionWomen with PCOS felt that they had more knowledge and motivation to implement preventive health strategies after participating in a clinical research study. Education about how PCOS affects their immediate and long-term health enabled women with PCOS to feel physical and psychological benefits and to engage more with their health care providers.     

A prospective study of quality of life in patients undergoing pelvic exenteration: Interim results

ObjectiveLittle prospective data exist on quality of life (QOL) after pelvic exenteration (PE). This ongoing study prospectively examines the QOL changes following this radical procedure using a comprehensive battery of psychological instruments.MethodsSince 2005, enrolled patients were interviewed (EORTC QLQ-C30, EORTC QLQ-CR38, EORTC QLQ-BLM30, BFI, BPI-SF, IADL, CES-D, IES-R) preoperatively and at 3, 6, and 12 months after PE for physical/psychological symptoms. Data were examined using repeated measure ANOVA.ResultsSixteen women (3 anterior, 1 posterior, and 12 total PEs), with more than 1 year of follow-up, completed all scheduled interviews. Median age was 58 years (range, 28–76 years). Overall QOL (F = 6.3, p < 0.02), ability to perform instrumental daily activities (F = 6.8, p < 0.02), body image (F = 11.9, p < 0.00), and sexual function (F = 8.0, p < 0.01) all declined at 3 months but were near baseline by 12 months after PE. Although, overall, physical function followed a similar trend (F = 14.8, p < 0.00), it did not return to baseline. At the 12-month interview, patients reported increased gastrointestinal symptoms (F = 8.9, p < 0.01) but significantly less stress-related ideation (F = 6.1, p < 0.03) compared to baseline. Pain levels did not change significantly during the study period (F = 0.4, p < 0.74).ConclusionsAlthough patients report lingering gastrointestinal symptoms and some persistent decline in physical function after PE, most adjust well, returning to almost baseline functioning within a year. Providers can counsel patients that many, though not all, symptoms in the first 3 months following exenteration are likely to improve as they adapt to their changed health status. These preliminary results await confirmation of a larger analysis.     

Heat Loss Prevention (Help) After Birth in Preterm Infants Using Vinyl Isolation Bag or Polyethylene Wrap

ObjectiveTo examine the effects of using vinyl isolation bags or polyethylene wrap for the prevention of postnatal hypothermia in preterm infants at ≤ 32 weeks gestation.DesignA prospective, randomized controlled trial.SettingThe neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of the Istanbul Faculty of Medicine in Turkey.ParticipantsFifty‐nine preterm infants.MethodsParticipants were randomly assigned to either the vinyl isolation‐bag experimental group (n = 22) or the polyethylene‐wrap control group (n = 37). Infant body temperature was measured at four time points after birth.ResultsLoss of body temperature was significantly less in the vinyl isolation‐bag group during the first 60 minutes after birth (p = .041). Body temperature decreased by 1.41 ± 1.65 °C in the vinyl isolation‐bag group and 2.75 ± 1.68 °C in the polyethylene wrap group. Body temperature was significantly less in the polyethylene wrap group compared to the vinyl isolation‐bag group at birth to 60 minutes (p = .004).ConclusionWrapping preterm infants of gestational age  ≤ 32 weeks in vinyl bags immediately after birth is associated with lower incidences of hypothermia.     

Maternal factors associated with prematurity in public maternity hospitals at the Brazilian Western Amazon

ObjectiveTo analyse maternal factors associated with prematurity in public maternity hospitals.DesignRetrospective unmatched case-control study on two public maternity hospitals in the State of Acre, Brazil.Setting and ParticipantsA sample of 341 newborn infants of premature birth (< 37 weeks; case group) and 388 newborn infants of term delivery (≥ 37 weeks; control group).MethodsA validated instrument was used for interviews, and information was collected from hospital records. The variables were divided into five blocks: (1) maternal sociodemographic and economic characteristics, (2) maternal biological and reproductive characteristics, (3) maternal habits, (4) pregnancy complications, and (5) neonatal characteristics. The hierarchical analysis was performed using multiple logistic regression.ResultsThe risk factors associated with premature birth were as follows: newborn infants of mothers who were born premature (p = 0.005), with low BMI (p = 0.006), history of a previous preterm child (p<0.003), who had stress (p = 0.020) and physical injury during pregnancy (p = 0.025), with quality of prenatal care classified as inadequate II (p = 0.001), which presented abnormal amniotic fluid volume (p<0.001), pre-eclampsia/eclampsia (p<0.001), bleeding (p = 0.013) and hospitalization during pregnancy (p = 0.001).ConclusionThe variables that were associated with premature birth were mother born preterm, low BMI, previous premature child, stress and physical injury during pregnancy, prenatal care inadequate II, bleeding, abnormal amniotic fluid volume, pre-eclampsia/eclampsia and hospitalization during pregnancy. It is important to properly perform prenatal care, having a multidisciplinary approach as support, with the objective of keep up with changes in nutritional classification and monitoring of adverse clinical conditions.     

Social–cognitive processes associated with fear of recurrence among women newly diagnosed with gynecological cancers

ObjectiveThis cross sectional study aimed to characterize fears of recurrence among women newly diagnosed with gynecologic cancer. The study also evaluated models predicting the impact of recurrence fears on psychological distress through social and cognitive variables.MethodsWomen (N = 150) who participated in a randomized clinical trial comparing a coping and communication intervention to a supportive counseling intervention to usual care completed baseline surveys that were utilized for the study. The survey included the Concerns about Recurrence Scale (CARS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Impact of Event Scale (IES), and measures of social (holding back from sharing concerns and negative responses from family and friends) and cognitive (positive reappraisal, efficacy appraisal, and self-esteem appraisal) variables. Medical data was obtained via medical chart review.ResultsModerate-to-high levels of recurrence fears were reported by 47% of the women. Younger age (p < .01) and functional impairment (p < .01) correlated with greater recurrence fears. A social–cognitive model of fear of recurrence and psychological distress was supported. Mediation analyses indicated, that as a set, the social and cognitive variables mediated the association between fear of recurrence and both depression and cancer-specific distress. Holding back and self-esteem showed the strongest mediating effects.ConclusionFears of recurrence are prevalent among women newly diagnosed with gynecologic cancer. Social and cognitive factors play a role in women's adaptation to fears and impact overall psychological adjustment. These factors may be appropriate targets for intervention.     

Early Postpartum Maternal and Newborn Responses to Auditory,Tactile, Visual,Vestibular, and Olfactory Stimuli

ObjectiveTo compare maternal psychological well-being, newborn behavior, and maternal and newborn salivary oxytocin (OT) and cortisol before and after two maternally administered multisensory behavioral interventions or an attention control group.DesignRandomized prospective clinical trial.SettingU.S. Midwest community hospital.ParticipantsNewborns and their mothers (n = 102 dyads) participated. Mothers gave birth vaginally at term gestation and had no physical or mental health diagnoses. Newborns with low Apgar scores, receipt of oxygen, suspected infection, or congenital anomalies were excluded.MethodsDyads were randomly assigned to the auditory, tactile, visual, and vestibular (ATVV) intervention, the ATVV with odor from a baby lotion (ATVVO), or the attention control (AC) Group. Maternal psychological well-being, newborn behavior, and endocrine responses (salivary cortisol and OT) were measured before and after the intervention.ResultsNewborns in the ATVV and ATVVO groups exhibited increases in potent engagement behaviors (p < .0001 and p = .001, respectively). Newborns in the AC group exhibited a decrease in potent engagement (p = .013) and an increase in potent disengagement (p = .029). Mothers in the ATVVO group exhibited an increase in OT (p = .01) and the largest change in OT (p = .02) compared to mothers in the ATVV and AC groups. We noted no change in maternal psychological well-being or newborn endocrine responses.ConclusionInclusion of an odor via lotion with a behavioral intervention (ATVV) influenced maternal OT more than the behavioral intervention alone. Newborns were behaviorally responsive to the interventions; however, endocrine measures were not associated with intervention changes.     

Genital Pain and Sexual Functioning: Effects on Sexual Experience,Psychological Health,and Quality of Life

BackgroundGenital pain (GP) is a common symptom in women of reproductive age. The prevalence of GP is difficult to gauge as it has been underreported by both patients and clinicians and neglected in clinical studies despite wide recognition of the adverse effects to women's health.AimThe purpose of the present study was 3-fold: (i) to explore the self-reported presence and perception of GP and its association with sexual functioning, sexual distress, emotions, psychopathology, and quality of life (QoL); (ii) to explore if, controlling for the pain effect, women with Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) scores indicating sexual dysfunction also reported worse outcomes regarding sexual distress, emotions, psychological health, and QoL than GP women with higher FSFI scores; and (iii) to evaluate the effects of GP duration, comparing women with GP with shorter (<6 months) duration of symptoms with women with longer (≥6 months) duration of symptom of GP on sexual functioning, distress, emotions, psychopathology and QoL.MethodsA total of 1,034 women (age ranges between 18 and 40 years) from the Italian general population completed a web survey on sexual health.Outcomes6 self-report questionnaires exploring different biopsychosocial factors were assessed: the FSFI, the Female Sexual Distress Scale, the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule, the Short Form McGill Pain Questionnaire adapted for GP, the Short Form 36, and the Symptom Check List-90-Revised.ResultsWomen who reported GP (n = 319) indicated generally lower sexual function than women without GP (n = 648; P = .036). They reported a higher level of sexual distress (P < .001), more negative emotions related to sexual experiences (P = .001), lower scores in all QoL domains (P < .001), and higher levels of psychopathological symptoms (P < .001). Controlling for pain effects, women whose FSFI scores indicated sexual dysfunction (n = 150) reported higher rates of sexual distress than women whose FSFI scores indicated normal sexual function (n = 169; P < .001).The scores also indicated fewer positive (P < .001) and more negative emotions (P < .001) related to sexuality, lower QoL (P < .001) and significantly higher psychological burden (P < .001). Moreover, women experiencing GP for ≥6 months reported significantly lower means on the FSFI total score (P < .05; especially in the desire, satisfaction, and pain domains), distress (P < .001), and emotions (P < .05) than women experiencing GP duration <6 months. No significant differences were found on the QoL and the psychopathological symptoms.Clinical ImplicationsGP is significantly pervasive, but a high percentage of sexual problems and related emotional suffering is overlooked. Raising awareness about this issue is critical, both among clinicians and the general public.Strengths & LimitationsThe present study highlighted important characteristics of GP from a community sample; the results indicate problems related to pain experiences and their repercussions on sexual, psychological, affective health, and QoL. Major limitations are related to the use of self-report measures via a web-based study.ConclusionThe results provide evidence of a lack of awareness regarding pain experiences as they relate to sexual functioning in women; clinicians would be advised to more fully investigate sexual functioning and psychosocial variables associated with GP during routine consultation beginning with the first onset of the symptoms.Nimbi FM, Rossi V, Tripodi F, et al. Genital Pain and Sexual Functioning: Effects on Sexual Experience, Psychological Health, and Quality of Life. J Sex Med 2020; 17:771–783.     

Female and male transgender quality of life: socioeconomic and medical differences

IntroductionStudies show a positive impact of gender reassignment treatment on the quality of life (QOL) of transgender persons, but little is known about the influence of their socioeconomic status.AimFirst, to assess health‐related QOL of transgender men and women and compare it with a general population sample, second, to investigate the differences between transgender men and transgender women, and third, to analyze how their levels of QOL differ according to socioeconomic and transition data.MethodsOne hundred forty‐eight current and former transgender patients of a gender identity clinic participated in a large QOL study.Main Outcomes MeasuresHealth‐related QOL was measured using the Short Form 36‐Item Questionnaire.ResultsThe QOL of transgender women did not differ significantly from the general Dutch female population, although transgender men showed reduced mental health‐related QOL compared with the general Dutch male sample. Transgender women had a lower QOL than transgender men for the subscales physical functioning and general health, but better QOL for bodily pain. Time since start of hormone use was positively associated for transgender women with subscales bodily pain and general health, and negatively associated for transgender men with the subscale role limitations due to physical health problems. There was no significant difference in QOL between the group who had undergone genital surgery or surgical breast augmentation and the group who did not have these surgeries. Transgender men with an erection prosthesis scored significantly better on the subscales vitality and (at trend level) on role limitations due to emotional problems. A series of univariate analyses revealed significantly lower QOL scores for transgender persons that were older, low educated, unemployed, had a low household income, and were single.ConclusionsSpecific social indicators are important in relation to health‐related QOL of transgenders in a context of qualitative and adequate medical care. Motmans J, Meier P, Ponnet K, and T'Sjoen G. Female and male transgender quality of life: Socioeconomic and medical differences. J Sex Med 2012;9:743–750.     

Psychosexual Functioning of Female Childhood Cancer Survivors: A Report From the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort Study

IntroductionThere is a growing population of childhood cancer survivors at risk for adverse outcomes, including sexual dysfunction.AimTo estimate the prevalence of and risk factors for sexual dysfunction among adult female survivors of childhood cancer and evaluate associations between dysfunction and psychological symptoms/quality of life (QOL).MethodsFemale survivors (N = 936, mean 7.8 ± 5.6 years at diagnosis; 31 ± 7.8 years at evaluation) and noncancer controls (N = 122) participating in the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort Study completed clinical evaluations, Sexual Functioning Questionnaires (SFQ), and Medical Outcomes Survey Short Forms 36 (SF-36). Linear models compared SFQ scores between sexually active survivors (N = 712) and controls; survivors with scores <10th percentile of controls were classified with sexual dysfunction. Logistic regression evaluated associations between survivor characteristics and sexual dysfunction, and between sexual dysfunction and QOL.OutcomesSexual dysfunction was defined by scores <10th percentile of noncancer controls on the SFQ overall, as well as the domains of arousal, interest, orgasm, and physical problems, while QOL was measured by scores on the SF-36 with both physical and mental summary scales.ResultsSexual dysfunction was prevalent among 19.9% (95% CI 17.1, 23.1) of survivors. Those diagnosed with germ cell tumors (OR = 8.82, 95% CI 3.17, 24.50), renal tumors (OR = 4.49, 95% CI 1.89, 10.67), or leukemia (OR = 3.09, 95% CI 1.50, 6.38) were at greater risk compared to controls. Age at follow-up (45–54 vs 18–24 years; OR = 5.72, 95% CI 1.87, 17.49), pelvic surgery (OR = 2.03, 95% CI 1.18, 3.50), and depression (OR = 1.96, 95% CI 1.10, 3.51) were associated with sexual dysfunction. Hypogonadism receiving hormone replacement (vs nonmenopausal/nonhypogonadal; OR = 3.31, 95% CI 1.53, 7.15) represented an additional risk factor in the physical problems (eg, vaginal pain and dryness) subscale. Survivors with sexual dysfunction, compared to those without sexual dysfunction, were more likely to score <40 on the physical (21.1% vs 12.7%, P = .01) and mental health (36.5% vs 18.2%, P < .01) summary scales of the SF-36. Only 2.9% of survivors with sexual dysfunction reported receiving intervention.Clinical ImplicationsHealth care providers should be aware of the increased risk of sexual dysfunction in this growing population, inquire about symptomology, and refer for appropriate intervention.Strengths & LimitationsStrengths of this study include the use of a validated tool for evaluating sexual function in a large population of clinically assessed female childhood cancer survivors. Limitations include potential for selection bias, and lack of clinically confirmed dysfunction.ConclusionSexual dysfunction is prevalent among female childhood cancer survivors and few survivors receive intervention; further research is needed to determine if those with sexual dysfunction would benefit from targeted interventions.Bjornard KL, Howell CR, Klosky JL, et al. Psychosexual Functioning of Female Childhood Cancer Survivors: A Report From the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort Study. J Sex Med 2020;17:1981–1994.     

Sexual Activity and Related Factors of Older Women in Hunan,China: A Cross-Sectional Study

BackgroundSexuality has an important impact on people's physical and mental health, but current research on the sexual activity of older Chinese women has many limitations and more detailed studies are needed.AimThe objective was to determine the prevalence of sexual activity and related factors in women aged 55 to 85 years in Hunan, China.MethodsBased on the data from the Hunan Provincial Women Health Needs Survey in 2018, we conducted a secondary analysis of 2,401 older women aged 55 and above. The dependent variable was sexual activity, and independent variables included sociodemographic characteristics, health behaviors, reproductive and chronic medical history, and psychological characteristics. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 26.0. Chi-square test was used to assess the association between categorical variables, and binary logistic regression was used to examine factors related to sexual activity.OutcomesSexual activity and related factors.ResultsThe prevalence of sexual activity among older women was 12.5% (301/2401) in the past month. Having a partner (OR = 1.484; 95% CI, 1.048-2.101; P = .026), jogging (OR = 2.061; 95% CI, 1.391-3.054; P < .001), dancing (OR = 1.477; 95% CI, 1.106-1.974; P = .008), vegetarian-based diet (OR = 2.197; 95% CI, 1.334-3.618; P = .002), meat-based diet (OR = 2.196; 95% CI, 1.144-4.216; P = .018) were positively associated with being sexually active. Whereas, aging (OR = 0.781; 95% CI, 0.647-0.942; P = .010), living in the urban (OR = 0.628; 95% CI, 0.488-0.808; P < .001), hypertension (OR = 0.702; 95% CI, 0.520-0.949; P = .021), and anxiety (OR = 0.680; 95% CI, 0.475-0.972; P = .034) were negatively associated with being sexually active.Clinical ImplicationsHealth care workers need to be aware that older women still have sexual activity and understand the needs of older women for sex education, take the initiative to discuss safe sex with them, and solve their sexual problems.Strengths and LimitationsThis is one of the largest studies to determine the prevalence of sexual activity among older women in China and its related factors. In addition, new factors such as exercise types and eating habits related to sexual activity were discovered. The limitation of this study is that it did not use a specific questionnaire to assess the sexual activity and did not consider physical tenderness other than sexual intercourse.ConclusionsSome older women still have had sexual activity in the past month and factors such as lifestyles that can be changed and chronic diseases that can be self-managed were found to predict sexual activity.Li T, LuoY, Meng Y, et al. Sexual Activity and Related Factors of Older Women in Hunan, China: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Sex Med 2022;19:302–310.     

Effectiveness of mind-body exercise via Baduanjin on physical and psychological outcomes in patients with pulmonary ground-glass nodules: A non-randomized controlled pilot study

BackgroundWith the increasing incidence and mortality of lung cancer, ground-glass nodules (GGNs) have become an ongoing public health concern. In clinical practice, the physical and psychological distress of GGN patients is easy to overlook during the follow-up after diagnosis. Such patients typically have limited medical options and few of these options involve mind-body exercises.ObjectiveThe purpose of this pilot study was to explore the effectiveness of the mind-body exercise Baduanjin on physical and psychological outcomes among GGN patients.DesignWe conducted a prospective, non-randomized, controlled, assessor-blinded trial (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03420885).SettingThis trial was conducted at three medical sites, both located in Shanghai, China, between April 2017 and January 2020.ParticipantsPatients with GGN.InterventionSixty GGN participants were divided into a health education control group only receiving health education (n = 30) and a Baduanjin intervention group receiving health education plus a Baduanjin training program (n = 30). Both groups were treated for 16 weeks.Outcome measurementsOutcomes were assessed at baseline and week 16. The primary outcomes included pulmonary function (FVC, FVC%, FEV₁, FEV₁/FVC, PEF) and psychological condition (SAS score, SDS score). The secondary outcome was quality of life (SF-36).ResultsCompared with the health education control group, the Baduanjin intervention group had significant improvements in pulmonary function (FVC, FVC%, FEV₁), psychological outcomes (SAS score, SDS score), and quality of life (SF-36). The significant differences in pre-intervention and post-intervention between groups were as follows: FVC (MD = 0.21, 95%CI: 0.10 to 0.33, P = 0), FVC% (MD = 6.90, 95%CI: 3.10 to 10.70, P = 0.001), FEV₁ (MD = 0.18, 95%CI: 0.07 to 0.29, P = 0.001); SAS score (MD = −4.90, 95%CI: −8.28 to −1.52, P = 0.005), SDS score (MD = −5.83, 95%CI: −9.46 to −2.21, P = 0.002); physical component summary (PCS) of SF-36 (MD = 5.03, 95%CI: 2.54 to 7.51, P = 0), mental component summary (MCS) of SF-36 (MD = 5.78, 95%CI: 2.64 to 8.92, P = 0.001). Linear regression analysis was performed to study the influence of confounder variables on the improvements of primary outcomes, and no significant change was found. Moreover, Pearson correlation coefficient analysis demonstrated that ameliorations in lung function (FVC, FVC%, FEV₁, FEV₁/FVC, and PEF) were significantly associated with a decrease in anxious symptoms and depressive symptoms.ConclusionGGN patients in the Baduanjin intervention group showed greater benefits in pulmonary function and psychological outcomes than those in the health education control group, and the effectiveness was stable. The findings support Baduanjin as an effective, safe, enjoyable, and promising complementary intervention for management of GGN in patients with physical and psychological distress.     

Antenatal weight management: Diet,physical activity,and gestational weight gain in early pregnancy

Objectiveto investigate women's physical activity levels, diet and gestational weight gain, and their experiences and motivations of behavior change.Designanalysis of cross-sectional data collected during a longitudinal, cohort study examining physiological, psychological, sociodemographic, and self-reported behavioural measures relating to bodyweight.Settingwomen recruited from routine antenatal clinics at the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust.Participants193 women ≤27 weeks gestation and aged 18 years or over.Measurements & findingsmeasurements included weight and height, the Dietary Instrument for Nutrition Education (Brief Version), the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (Short Form), and open questions of perceptions of behaviour change. 50.3% (n=97) were overweight/obese, and women gained 0.26 kg/wk (IQR 0.34 kg/wk) since conception. The majority consumed low levels of fat (n=121; 63.4%), high levels of unsaturated fat (n=103; 53.9%), and used a dietary supplement (n=166; 86.5%). However, 41% (n=76) were inactive, 74.8% (n=143) did not consume high levels of fibre, and 90.0% (n=171) consumed less than 5 portions of fruit and vegetables a day. Body mass index category was not associated with diet, physical activity levels, or gestational weight gain. Themes generated from open-questions relating to behaviour change were: (1) Risk management, (2) Coping with symptoms, (3) Self-control, (4) Deviation from norm, (5) Nature knows best.Conclusionsearly pregnancy is a period of significant and heterogeneous behaviour change, influenced by perceptions of risk and women's lived experience. Behaviour was influenced not only by perceptions of immediate risk to the fetus, but also by the women's lived experience of being pregnant.Implications for practice: There are exciting opportunities to constructively reframe health promotion advice relating to physical activity and diet in light of women's priorities. The need for individualized advice is highlighted, and women across all body mass index categories would benefit from improved diet and physical activity levels.     

Psychological responses of medical staff during COVID-19 and the adjustment effect of brief mindfulness meditation

BackgroundCOVID-19 has posed an unprecedented threat to public health and remains a critical challenge for medical staff, especially those who have been fighting against the virus in Wuhan, China. Limited data have been reported regarding the psychological status of these medical staff members. Therefore, we conducted this study to explore the mental health status of medical staff and the efficacy of brief mindfulness meditation (BMM) in improving their mental health.MethodsA survey was conducted between April 18 and May 3, 2020. Upon completing the pre-test, participants in the treatment group received a 15-min BMM intervention every day at 8 p.m. Post-test questionnaires were completed after 16 days of therapy. The questionnaire comprised demographic data and psychological measurement scales. The levels of pre and post-test depression, anxiety, stress, and insomnia were assessed using the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire, 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale, Perceived Stress Scale, and Athens Insomnia Scale, respectively.ResultsA total of 134 completed questionnaires were received. Of the medical staff, 6.7%, 1.5%, and 26.7% reported symptoms of depression, anxiety, and insomnia, respectively. Public officials from military hospitals reported experiencing greater pressure than private officials (t = 2.39, p = 0.018, d = 0.50). Additionally, BMM treatment appeared to effectively alleviate insomnia (t = 2.27, p = 0.027, d = 0.28).ConclusionsThe medical staff suffered negative psychological effects during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMM interventions are advantageous in supporting the mental health of medical staff.