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Mei Y, Christensen GM, Li Z, Waller LA, Ebelt S, Marcus M, Lah JJ, Wingo AP, Wingo TS, Hüls A. Joint effects of air pollution and neighborhood socioeconomic status on cognitive decline - Mediation by depression, high cholesterol levels, and high blood pressure. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 923:171535. [PMID: 38453069 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Air pollution and neighborhood socioeconomic status (N-SES) are associated with adverse cardiovascular health and neuropsychiatric functioning in older adults. This study examines the degree to which the joint effects of air pollution and N-SES on the cognitive decline are mediated by high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure (HBP), and depression. In the Emory Healthy Aging Study, 14,390 participants aged 50+ years from Metro Atlanta, GA, were assessed for subjective cognitive decline using the cognitive function instrument (CFI). Information on the prior diagnosis of high cholesterol, HBP, and depression was collected through the Health History Questionnaire. Participants' census tracts were assigned 3-year average concentrations of 12 air pollutants and 16 N-SES characteristics. We used the unsupervised clustering algorithm Self-Organizing Maps (SOM) to create 6 exposure clusters based on the joint distribution of air pollution and N-SES in each census tract. Linear regression analysis was used to estimate the effects of the SOM cluster indicator on CFI, adjusting for age, race/ethnicity, education, and neighborhood residential stability. The proportion of the association mediated by high cholesterol levels, HBP, and depression was calculated by comparing the total and direct effects of SOM clusters on CFI. Depression mediated up to 87 % of the association between SOM clusters and CFI. For example, participants living in the high N-SES and high air pollution cluster had CFI scores 0.05 (95 %-CI:0.01,0.09) points higher on average compared to those from the high N-SES and low air pollution cluster; after adjusting for depression, this association was attenuated to 0.01 (95 %-CI:-0.04,0.05). HBP mediated up to 8 % of the association between SOM clusters and CFI and high cholesterol up to 5 %. Air pollution and N-SES associated cognitive decline was partially mediated by depression. Only a small portion (<10 %) of the association was mediated by HBP and high cholesterol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyang Mei
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Grace M Christensen
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Zhenjiang Li
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lance A Waller
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Stefanie Ebelt
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Michele Marcus
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - James J Lah
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Aliza P Wingo
- Division of Mental Health, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Thomas S Wingo
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Department of Human Genetics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Anke Hüls
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Menhas R, Yang L, Saqib ZA, Younas M, Saeed MM. Does nature-based social prescription improve mental health outcomes? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1228271. [PMID: 38590811 PMCID: PMC10999630 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1228271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background A nature-based social prescription (NBSP) is an approach to improving mental health outcomes that involves prescribing nature-based interventions as complementary or alternative therapy to traditional ones. A variety of advantages are available from NBSP for people looking to enhance their mental well-being. The effect size of the nature-based social prescriptions (NBSPs) has not been thoroughly evaluated by systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Objectives The current study aimed to analyze existing studies and conduct a meta-analysis to determine the overall effect size of the nature-based social prescriptions (NBSP's) outcomes on mental health. Methods By choosing the relevant papers from among those that were available, a meta-analysis was carried out in the current study. A systematic search of electronic databases (Pub Med, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Embase, CINAHL, and PsychINFO) was conducted to identify relevant studies. Studies were included if they evaluated the effects of NBSP on mental health outcomes. Effect sizes were calculated using the random effects model. Results Meta-analysis of interventions statistics shows that CBT (SMD -0.0035; 95% CI: [-0.5090; 0.5020]; Tau^2: 0.1011; Tau: 0.318), digital intervention (SMD -0.3654; 95% CI: [-0.5258; 1.2566]; Tau^2: 0.2976, Tau: 0.5455), music intervention (SMD -2.1281; 95% CI: [-0.4659; 4.7221]; Tau^2: 3.4046; Tau:1.8452), and psychological interventions (SMD -0.8529; 95% CI: [0.3051; 1.4007]; Tau^2: 0.1224; Tau: 0.3499) do not significantly impact. The other interventions [social belongingness, communication training, blue intervention, nature-based education, cognitive behavior group therapy (CBGT), social prescribing coordinator, self-help intervention, participatory, organizational intervention, inpatient services, brief diet, internet-based intervention, prenatal intervention, yoga and meditation, ergonomics training program, yoga nidra intervention, and storytelling] highlighted above are significant. Conclusion The conclusion of the meta-analysis supports the idea that incorporating nature-based social prescription interventions into mental healthcare plans can effectively complement traditional therapies and improve mental health outcomes. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023412458, CRD42023412458.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashid Menhas
- Department of Nursing, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, China
| | - Lili Yang
- Department of Nursing, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, China
| | - Zulkaif Ahmed Saqib
- College of Urban Transportation and Logistics, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Muhammad Younas
- School of Educational Technology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Muhammad Muddasar Saeed
- International Education College Chinese and Western Medicine Clinic, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
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Freymueller J, Schmid HL, Senkler B, Lopez Lumbi S, Zerbe S, Hornberg C, McCall T. Current methodologies of greenspace exposure and mental health research-a scoping review. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1360134. [PMID: 38510363 PMCID: PMC10951718 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1360134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Greenspaces can provide an important resource for human mental health. A growing body of literature investigates the interaction and the influence of diverse greenspace exposures. In order to gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex connection between greenspace and mental health, a variety of perspectives and methodological combinations are needed. The aim of this review is to assess the current methodologies researching greenspace and mental health. Methods A scoping review was conducted. Four electronic databases (Pubmed, Embase, PsycInfo, Web of Science) were searched for relevant studies. A wide range of greenspace and mental health keywords were included to provide a comprehensive representation of the body of research. Relevant information on publication characteristics, types of greenspaces, mental health outcomes, and measurements of greenspace exposure and mental health was extracted and assessed. Results 338 studies were included. The included studies encompassed a multitude of methods, as well as outcomes for both greenspace and mental health. 28 combinations were found between seven categories each for greenspace and mental health assessment. Some pairings such as geoinformation systems for greenspace assessment and questionnaires investigating mental health were used much more frequently than others, implying possible research gaps. Furthermore, we identified problems and inconsistences in reporting of greenspace types and mental health outcomes. Discussion The identified methodological variety is a potential for researching the complex connections between greenspace and mental health. Commonly used combinations can provide important insights. However, future research needs to emphasize other perspectives in order to understand how to create living environments with mental health benefits. For this purpose, interdisciplinary research is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julius Freymueller
- Medical School OWL, Department of Sustainable Environmental Health Sciences, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Hannah-Lea Schmid
- Medical School OWL, Department of Sustainable Environmental Health Sciences, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Ben Senkler
- Medical School OWL, Department of Sustainable Environmental Health Sciences, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Susanne Lopez Lumbi
- Medical School OWL, Department of Sustainable Environmental Health Sciences, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Stefan Zerbe
- Faculty of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, Bolzano, Italy
- Institute of Geography, University of Hildesheim, Hildesheim, Germany
| | - Claudia Hornberg
- Medical School OWL, Department of Sustainable Environmental Health Sciences, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Timothy McCall
- Medical School OWL, Department of Sustainable Environmental Health Sciences, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
- School of Public Health, Department of Environment and Health, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
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Patwary MM, Bardhan M, İnan HE, Browning MHEM, Disha AS, Haque MZ, Helmy M, Ashraf S, Dzhambov AM, Shuvo FK, Alam MA, Billah SM, Kabir MP, Hossain MR, Azam MG, Rahman MM, Swed S, Sah R, Montenegro-Idrogo JJ, Bonilla-Aldana DK, Rodriguez-Morales AJ. Exposure to urban green spaces and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic: evidence from two low and lower-middle-income countries. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1334425. [PMID: 38496388 PMCID: PMC10940342 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1334425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on mental health globally, with limited access to mental health care affecting low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) the most. In response, alternative strategies to support mental health have been necessary, with access to green spaces being a potential solution. While studies have highlighted the role of green spaces in promoting mental health during pandemic lockdowns, few studies have focused on the role of green spaces in mental health recovery after lockdowns. This study investigated changes in green space access and associations with mental health recovery in Bangladesh and Egypt across the pandemic. Methods An online survey was conducted between January and April 2021 after the first lockdown was lifted in Bangladesh (n = 556) and Egypt (n = 660). We evaluated indoor and outdoor greenery, including the number of household plants, window views, and duration of outdoor visits. The quantity of greenness was estimated using the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). This index was estimated using satellite images with a resolution of 10x10m during the survey period (January-April 2021) with Sentinel-2 satellite in the Google Earth Engine platform. We calculated averages within 250m, 300m, 500m and 1000m buffers of the survey check-in locations using ArcGIS 10.3. Multiple linear regression models were used to evaluate relationships between changes in natural exposure and changes in mental health. Results The results showed that mental health improved in both countries after the lockdown period. People in both countries increased their time spent outdoors in green spaces after the lockdown period, and these increases in time outdoors were associated with improved mental health. Unexpectedly, changes in the number of indoor plants after the lockdown period were associated with contrasting mental health outcomes; more plants translated to increased anxiety and decreased depression. Refocusing lives after the pandemic on areas other than maintaining indoor plants may assist with worrying and feeling panicked. Still, indoor plants may assist with depressive symptoms for people remaining isolated. Conclusion These findings have important implications for policymakers and urban planners in LMICs, highlighting the need to increase access to natural environments in urban areas to improve mental health and well-being in public health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Mainuddin Patwary
- Environment and Sustainability Research Initiative, Khulna, Bangladesh
- Environmental Science Discipline, Life Science School, Khulna University, Khulna, Bangladesh
| | - Mondira Bardhan
- Environment and Sustainability Research Initiative, Khulna, Bangladesh
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, United States
| | - Hüseyin Ertan İnan
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, United States
- Department of Tourism Management, Faculty of Tourism, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Türkiye
| | - Matthew H. E. M. Browning
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, United States
| | - Asma Safia Disha
- Environment and Sustainability Research Initiative, Khulna, Bangladesh
- Department of Environmental Science and Management, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Zahidul Haque
- Environment and Sustainability Research Initiative, Khulna, Bangladesh
- Environmental Science Discipline, Life Science School, Khulna University, Khulna, Bangladesh
| | - Mai Helmy
- Psychology Department, College of Education, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
- Psychology Department, Faculty of Arts, Menoufia University, Shibin el Kom, Egypt
| | - Sadia Ashraf
- Environmental Science Discipline, Life Science School, Khulna University, Khulna, Bangladesh
| | - Angel M. Dzhambov
- Department of Hygiene, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Research Group “Health and Quality of Life in a Green and Sustainable Environment”, SRIPD, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Environmental Health Division, Research Institute at Medical University of Plovdiv, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Institute of Highway Engineering and Transport Planning, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
| | | | - Md. Ashraful Alam
- Department of Computational Diagnostic Radiology and Preventive Medicine, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sharif Mutasim Billah
- Environment and Sustainability Research Initiative, Khulna, Bangladesh
- Environmental Science Discipline, Life Science School, Khulna University, Khulna, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Pervez Kabir
- Environment and Sustainability Research Initiative, Khulna, Bangladesh
- Department of Civil Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Md. Riad Hossain
- Institute of Disaster Management, Khulna University Engineering & Technology, Khulna, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Golam Azam
- Remote Sensing, Center for Environmental and Geographic Information Services (CEGIS), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Mijanur Rahman
- Department of Geography and Environment, Jagannath University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sarya Swed
- Faculty of Medicine, Aleppo University, Aleppo, Syria
| | - Ranjit Sah
- Green City Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Department of Microbiology, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune, India
| | - Juan J. Montenegro-Idrogo
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Cientifica del Sur, Lima, Peru
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Service, Hospital Nacional Dos de Mayo, Lima, Peru
| | | | - Alfonso J. Rodriguez-Morales
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Cientifica del Sur, Lima, Peru
- Grupo de Investigación Biomedicina, Faculty of Medicine, Fundación Universitaria Autónoma de las Américas-Institución Universitaria Visión de las Américas, Pereira, Colombia
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
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Sabedotti MES, O'Regan AC, Nyhan MM. Data Insights for Sustainable Cities: Associations between Google Street View-Derived Urban Greenspace and Google Air View-Derived Pollution Levels. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:19637-19648. [PMID: 37972280 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c05000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Unprecedented levels of urbanization have escalated urban environmental health issues, including increased air pollution in cities globally. Strategies for mitigating air pollution, including green urban planning, are essential for sustainable and healthy cities. State-of-the-art research investigating urban greenspace and pollution metrics has accelerated through the use of vast digital data sets and new analytical tools. In this study, we examined associations between Google Street View-derived urban greenspace levels and Google Air View-derived air quality, where both have been resolved in extremely high resolution, accuracy, and scale along the entire road network of Dublin City. Particulate matter of size fraction less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide, nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide were quantified using 5,030,143 Google Air View measurements, and greenspace was quantified using 403,409 Google Street View images. Significant (p < 0.001) negative associations between urban greenspace and pollution were observed. For example, an interquartile range increase in the Green View Index was associated with a 7.4% [95% confidence interval: -13.1%, -1.3%] decrease in NO2 at the point location spatial resolution. We provide insights into how large-scale digital data can be harnessed to elucidate urban environmental interactions that will have important planning and policy implications for sustainable future cities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria E S Sabedotti
- Discipline of Civil, Structural & Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering & Architecture, University College Cork, Cork T12 K8AF, Ireland
- MaREI, the SFI Research Centre for Energy, Climate & Marine, University College Cork, Ringaskiddy, CorkP43 C573, Ireland
- Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Lee Rd, Sundays, Well, Cork T23 XE10, Ireland
| | - Anna C O'Regan
- Discipline of Civil, Structural & Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering & Architecture, University College Cork, Cork T12 K8AF, Ireland
- MaREI, the SFI Research Centre for Energy, Climate & Marine, University College Cork, Ringaskiddy, CorkP43 C573, Ireland
- Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Lee Rd, Sundays, Well, Cork T23 XE10, Ireland
| | - Marguerite M Nyhan
- Discipline of Civil, Structural & Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering & Architecture, University College Cork, Cork T12 K8AF, Ireland
- MaREI, the SFI Research Centre for Energy, Climate & Marine, University College Cork, Ringaskiddy, CorkP43 C573, Ireland
- Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Lee Rd, Sundays, Well, Cork T23 XE10, Ireland
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Yao H, Peng Z, Sha X. Association between cognitive function and dusty weather: a propensity score matching study. BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:777. [PMID: 38012572 PMCID: PMC10680218 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-04466-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With a rapidly aging global population, the health of older adults is a national priority for countries across the world. Dusty weather has been demonstrated to be a potential risk factor of cognitive function among the elderly population. However, there is a paucity of studies exploring the associations between dusty weather and cognitive function among the older in China. METHODS Data on individual characteristics were obtained from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey (CHARLS) 2018, whereas data on air pollution were sourced from environmental monitoring stations in China. Cognitive function, including general cognitive function, episodic memory, and linguistic competence, was assessed by self- or informant-questionnaires. We used propensity score matching and linear regression to investigate the relationship between dusty weather and cognitive function. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to test the robustness of the results. RESULTS This study included 8,604 participants older than 60 years old. After controlling air pollutant weather, dusty weather was demonstrated to be positively associated with a decline in cognitive function (Informant Questionnaire on Cognitive Decline in the Elderly (IQCODE), 4.0, 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.11, 4.89; Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE), 0.63, 95% CI: 0.34, 0.92). Results of sensitivity analysis showed that our research findings are robust. CONCLUSION Older adults living in dusty weather regions suffered a higher level of cognitive impairment, and such adverse effects were more substantial among females compared with their male counterparts. Targeted health interventions to help older adults living in regions where dusty weather occurs frequently are suggested to be proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honghui Yao
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Zixuan Peng
- Institute of Health Policy, Management & Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Xinping Sha
- Department of infectious disease. Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan Province, China.
- Xinagya Changde Hospital, Changde, 415000, Hunan Province, China.
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Yemm H, Peel E, Brooker D. "I guess you can interpret it in a number of ways like kind of a milder or the mildest form of dementia?": Multi-stakeholder perceptions of cognitive impairment. DEMENTIA 2023; 22:1799-1818. [PMID: 37696113 DOI: 10.1177/14713012231201596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) has a high prevalence and is a risk factor for dementia. Furthering understanding of MCI has been identified as a public health priority. This research aimed to explore views about the causes of cognitive impairment and identify associations between cognitive impairment, dementia, and normative ageing. METHOD Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 22 participants with different stakeholder perspectives on the area of MCI in England, and analysed thematically. RESULTS Our analysis focuses on two main themes: 1) causes of cognitive impairment, and 2) ageing, dementia, and dying. Most participants viewed cognitive impairment as a transitional state between normative ageing and dementia. Participants expressed their fear of cognitive impairment and dementia, and made clear links between cognitive impairment and dying. Participants also showed an awareness of the links between lifestyle factors and cognitive health. However, linkage between lifestyle and cognition was discussed only when explicitly asked, suggesting that this was not especially salient for participants when considering the causes and risk factors for cognitive impairment. CONCLUSION The results of this study highlight key areas for future public health initiatives, such as a focus on the multitude of benefits offered by adopting a healthy diet and physical exercise in reducing risk of cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Yemm
- Helen McArdle Nursing and Care Research Institute, University of Sunderland, UK; Association for Dementia Studies, University of Worcester, UK
| | - E Peel
- Centre for Research in Communication and Culture, School of Social Sciences and Humanities, Loughborough University, UK
| | - D Brooker
- Association for Dementia Studies, University of Worcester, UK
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Dzhambov AM, Lercher P, Vincens N, Persson Waye K, Klatte M, Leist L, Lachmann T, Schreckenberg D, Belke C, Ristovska G, Kanninen KM, Botteldooren D, Van Renterghem T, Jeram S, Selander J, Arat A, White K, Julvez J, Clark C, Foraster M, van Kamp I. Protective effect of restorative possibilities on cognitive function and mental health in children and adolescents: A scoping review including the role of physical activity. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 233:116452. [PMID: 37339694 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116452] [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: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
Background The exposome approach can be a powerful tool for understanding the intertwining of social, physical, and internal influences that shape mental health and cognitive development throughout childhood. To distil conceptual models for subsequent analyses, the EU-funded project Early Environmental quality and Life-course mental health effects (Equal-Life) has conducted literature reviews on potential mediators linking the exposome to these outcomes. We report on a scoping review and a conceptual model of the role of restorative possibilities and physical activity. Methods Peer-reviewed studies published since the year 2000 in English, on the association between the exposome and mental health/cognition in children/adolescents, and quantitatively investigating restoration/restorative quality as a mediating variable were considered. Database searches were last updated in December 2022. We used an unstructured expert-driven approach to fill in gaps in the reviewed literature. Results Five records of three distinct studies were identified, indicating a scarcity of empirical evidence in this newly developing research area. Not only were these studies few in numbers, but also cross-sectional, lending only tentative support to the idea that perceived restorative quality of adolescent's living environment might mediate the association between greenspace and mental health. Physical activity emerged as a mediator leading to better psychological outcomes in restorative environments. We provide a critical discussion of potential caveats when investigating the restoration mechanism in children and propose a hierarchical model including restoration, physical activity, and relational dynamics between children and their environment, including social context, as well as restorative environments other than nature. Conclusions It is justified to further explore the role of restoration and physical activity as mediators in the association between early-life exposome and mental health/cognitive development. It is important to consider the child perspective and specific methodological caveats. Given the evolving conceptual definitions/operationalizations, Equal-Life will attempt to fill in a critical gap in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel M Dzhambov
- Department of Hygiene, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria; Institute of Highway Engineering and Transport Planning, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria; Research Group "Health and Quality of Life in a Green and Sustainable Environment", SRIPD, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
| | - Peter Lercher
- Institute of Highway Engineering and Transport Planning, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
| | - Natalia Vincens
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kerstin Persson Waye
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maria Klatte
- Cognitive and Developmental Psychology, University of Kaiserslautern-Landau, Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - Larisa Leist
- Cognitive and Developmental Psychology, University of Kaiserslautern-Landau, Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - Thomas Lachmann
- Cognitive and Developmental Psychology, University of Kaiserslautern-Landau, Kaiserslautern, Germany; Centro de Investigación Nebrija en Cognición, Facultad de Lenguas y Educacion, Universidad Nebrija, Madrid, Spain
| | - Dirk Schreckenberg
- Centre for Applied Psychology, Environmental and Social Research (ZEUS GmbH), Hagen, Germany
| | - Christin Belke
- Centre for Applied Psychology, Environmental and Social Research (ZEUS GmbH), Hagen, Germany
| | - Gordana Ristovska
- Institute of Public Health of the Republic of North Macedonia, Skopje, Macedonia
| | - Katja M Kanninen
- A.I.Virtanen Institute for Molecular Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Dick Botteldooren
- Department of Information Technology, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Timothy Van Renterghem
- Department of Information Technology, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sonja Jeram
- National Institute of Public Health, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jenny Selander
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Arzu Arat
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kim White
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Netherlands
| | - Jordi Julvez
- Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), Clinical and Epidemiological Neuroscience Group (NeuroÈpia), Reus, Spain; ISGlobal, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Charlotte Clark
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Foraster
- ISGlobal, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBEREsp), Spain; PHAGEX Research Group, Blanquerna School of Health Science, Universitat Ramon Llull (URL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Irene van Kamp
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Netherlands
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Haque R, Alam K, Gow J, Neville C. Changes in the prevalence of dementia in Australia and its association with geographic remoteness. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289505. [PMID: 37531396 PMCID: PMC10395934 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The exact prevalence of dementia in Australia is ambiguous. Australia is a vast continent with a small population, and 80% of the population live in five cities. This study explores recent changes in the prevalence of dementia. It also investigates geographic remoteness as a potential risk factor for developing dementia. METHODS Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers (SDAC), a nationally representative database, was used to conduct this study. A total of 74,862 and 65,487 individuals from 2015 and 2018, respectively, were considered for this study. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to evaluate the association between dementia and geographic remoteness for older adults aged 65 years and over. RESULTS The results reveal that from 2015 to 2018, the prevalence of dementia among adults aged 65 years and older was higher in 2018 (5,229 per 100,000) than in 2015 (5,099 per 100,000). Significant geographical differences in the prevalence of dementia are observed among Australian adults, and this trend appears to be increasing. Furthermore, the unadjusted model revealed that, in 2015, older adults living in major cities had 1.29 (AOR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.17-1.41) times higher odds of having dementia compared with their counterparts from outer regional and remote areas. In 2018, the adjusted model found that older adults living in major cities had 1.12 (AOR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.01-1.25) times elevated odds of having dementia than their peers living in outer regional and remote areas. CONCLUSION There is a rising prevalence of dementia in Australia. Further investigation is required to identify the causes of this increase. Increased public health initiatives should concentrate on behavioural characteristics and contextual environmental factors to ameliorate this trend.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rezwanul Haque
- Department of Economics, American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB), Dhaka, Bangladesh
- School of Business, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Khorshed Alam
- School of Business, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
- Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jeff Gow
- School of Business, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
- Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
- School of Accounting, Economics and Finance, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Christine Neville
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
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Huang X, Song C, Jiang Y, Liang Z, Qu X, Fu S. Regulating effect of virtual reality restorative environment on prefrontal cortex dysfunction after night shifts in medical staff: an fNIRS study protocol for a randomized controlled trial in Dalian, China. Trials 2023; 24:349. [PMID: 37221541 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07227-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Night shift work-related disturbed biological rhythm and insufficient sleep affect the functioning of brain activity and thus impair cognitive performance and mood state, which potentially leads to negative and even devastating results for both individuals and patients. A virtual reality (VR)-based restorative environment has shown to be an effective new technique to reduce stress and improve cognitive performance, but little is known about its mechanism of improving neuronal activity and connectivity. METHODS This is a randomized, controlled, single-center clinical trial. A total of 140 medical staff will be enrolled and randomized in a 1:1 allocation to either the VR immersion group (intervention group) or the control group. In the morning after the night shift, the participants in the intervention group will watch 360° panoramic videos of immersive VR natural restorative environments for 10 min, while the participants in the control group will just rest for 10 min. Assessments of abbreviated Profile of Mood States Questionnaire (POMS) and verbal fluency task (VFT) performances, as well as oxygenated hemoglobin (oxy-Hb) and deoxygenated hemoglobin (deoxy-Hb) and total hemoglobin concentration acquired by functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) will be performed at baseline (day work), the morning after night shift but before the intervention (previous) and after intervention (post). Data collected after a night shift will be compared to baseline performance as well as between the two groups. DISCUSSION This trial will investigate the effects of the night shift and VR-based restorative environment intervention on mood, cognitive performance, and neuronal activity and connectivity. A positive result in this trial could encourage hospitals to apply VR technology to reduce physical and mental dysfunction during of night shifts among medical staff in every department. Furthermore, the findings from this study will contribute to understanding the underlying neuromodulation mechanisms of how restorative environments influence mood and cognition. TRIAL REGISTRATION Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2200064769 . Registered on 17 October 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofeng Huang
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Cuiyan Song
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Yingjun Jiang
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning Province, China.
| | - Zhanhua Liang
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning Province, China.
| | - Xiaotong Qu
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Shaoyan Fu
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning Province, China
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11
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Besser LM, Meyer OL, Streitz M, Farias ST, Olichney J, Mitsova D, Galvin JE. Perceptions of greenspace and social determinants of health across the life course: The Life Course Sociodemographics and Neighborhood Questionnaire (LSNEQ). Health Place 2023; 81:103008. [PMID: 37003018 PMCID: PMC10176197 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2023.103008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
We developed the Life Course Sociodemographics and Neighborhood Questionnaire (LSNEQ) to query older adults about perceived neighborhood greenspaces across the life course (i.e., distance to park, number of neighborhood parks/playgrounds, and neighborhood greenness) and about characteristics hypothesized to confound or moderate/mediate greenspace-health associations. Six perceived life course indices are derived from the LSNEQ: neighborhood socioeconomic status, neighborhood walking/biking, urbanicity, neighborhood amenities, neighborhood park access, and neighborhood greenness. Older adults from St. Louis, Missouri, and Sacramento, California, completed the LSNEQ in 2020-2021. The indices demonstrated borderline acceptable to good internal consistency (alpha = 0.60-0.79) and good to excellent test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.71-0.96) and detected different patterns of park access and neighborhood greenness by racialized group and location. Individuals with index scores indicating more neighborhood walking/biking and greater presence of neighborhood amenities over their life course were more likely to report neighborhood-based walking in older age. Overall, the LSNEQ is a reliable instrument to assess perceptions of life course social determinants of health including neighborhood greenspaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilah M Besser
- Comprehensive Center for Brain Health, Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 7700 W Camino Real, Suite 200, Boca Raton, FL, 33433, USA.
| | - Oanh L Meyer
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Davis, 4860 Y Street, Suite 3900, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
| | - Marissa Streitz
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, 4488 Forest Park, Suite 101, Saint Louis, MO, 63108, USA.
| | - Sarah T Farias
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Davis, 4860 Y Street, Suite 3900, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
| | - John Olichney
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Davis, 4860 Y Street, Suite 3900, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
| | - Diana Mitsova
- Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Road, SO 284, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, USA.
| | - James E Galvin
- Comprehensive Center for Brain Health, Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 7700 W Camino Real, Suite 200, Boca Raton, FL, 33433, USA.
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12
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Besser LM, Jimenez MP, Reimer CJ, Meyer OL, Mitsova D, George KM, Adkins-Jackson PB, Galvin JE. Diversity of Studies on Neighborhood Greenspace and Brain Health by Racialized/Ethnic Group and Geographic Region: A Rapid Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5666. [PMID: 37174185 PMCID: PMC10178609 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20095666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Studies examining associations between greenspace and Alzheimer's disease and related dementia (ADRD) outcomes are rapidly on the rise, yet no known literature reviews have summarized the racialized/ethnic group and geographic variation of those published studies. This is a significant gap given the known disparities in both greenspace access and ADRD risk between racialized/ethnic groups and between developed versus developing countries. In this rapid literature review, we (1) describe the diversity of published greenspace-brain health studies with respect to racialized/ethnic groups and geographic regions; (2) determine the extent to which published studies have investigated racialized/ethnic group differences in associations; and (3) review methodological issues surrounding studies of racialized/ethnic group disparities in greenspace and brain health associations. Of the 57 papers meeting our inclusion criteria as of 4 March 2022, 21% (n = 12) explicitly identified and included individuals who were Black, Hispanic/Latinx, and/or Asian. Twenty-one percent of studies (n = 12) were conducted in developing countries (e.g., China, Dominican Republic, Mexico), and 7% (n = 4) examined racialized/ethnic group differences in greenspace-brain health associations. None of the studies were framed by health disparities, social/structural determinants of health, or related frameworks, despite the known differences in both greenspace availability/quality and dementia risk by racialized/ethnic group and geography. Studies are needed in developing countries and that directly investigate racialized/ethnic group disparities in greenspace-brain health associations to target and promote health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilah M. Besser
- Comprehensive Center for Brain Health, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33433, USA
| | - Marcia Pescador Jimenez
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Cameron J. Reimer
- Department of Earth & Environment, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Oanh L. Meyer
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Diana Mitsova
- School of Urban and Regional Planning, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA
| | - Kristen M. George
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95817, USA
| | - Paris B. Adkins-Jackson
- Departments of Epidemiology and Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - James E. Galvin
- Comprehensive Center for Brain Health, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33433, USA
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13
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Jamalishahni T, Turrell G, Foster S, Davern M, Villanueva K. Neighbourhood socio-economic disadvantage and loneliness: the contribution of green space quantity and quality. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:598. [PMID: 36997909 PMCID: PMC10061840 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15433-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Disadvantaged areas experience higher levels of loneliness than advantaged areas, though studies rarely identify environmental determinants of neighbourhood inequity in loneliness. We studied the contribution of the quantity and quality of green space to neighbourhood inequity in loneliness in three buffer sizes (400 m, 800 m, 1600 m), using cross-sectional data from 3778 individuals aged 48-77 years old living in 200 neighbourhoods in Brisbane, Australia. Levels of loneliness were significantly higher in disadvantaged neighbourhoods, and these neighbourhoods had less green space and less access to quality green space. However, there was no evidence that neighbourhood disparities in green space contributed to the association between neighbourhood disadvantage and loneliness. Possible methodological and substantive reasons for this result are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Jamalishahni
- Centre for Urban Research, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia.
| | - Gavin Turrell
- Centre for Urban Research, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Sarah Foster
- Centre for Urban Research, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
- School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Melanie Davern
- Centre for Urban Research, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
- Centre for Health Equity, Melbourne School of Global and Population Health, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Karen Villanueva
- Centre for Urban Research, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
- Policy and Equity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
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Shu S. Exploring the role of soundscape in restorative experience: A pilot study from children’s perspective. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1131170. [PMID: 36998354 PMCID: PMC10043254 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1131170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Indoor and outdoor noise is renowned for its ability to negatively affect children’s health and performance. However, the possible restorative benefits of everyday soundscapes in children are still poorly understood. This study aimed to explore the role of everyday soundscapes in children’s restorative experiences in frequented indoor (classroom) and outdoor (urban park) environments. In stage one, 335 children (7–12 years old) were interviewed using a questionnaire survey to investigate their restoration needs, restorative experience, and potential restorative sounds. In stage two, 61 children participated in a laboratory study to assess the perceived restorativeness of different soundscapes, which were combinations of potential restorative sounds and background noise, under signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) from −5 to 15 dB. The findings denoted that the children’s need for restoration increased with age significantly. Younger children reported that the role of the sound environment was more important in their classroom experiences than in urban parks. Although the types of music displayed in surveyed parks were generally not preferred by the children, music was assessed as the most restorative sound in the laboratory study. Additionally, natural sounds were perceived to be more restorative than background noise in the context. In particular, birdsong showed more restorativeness in the classroom context, whereas fountain sounds showed more restorativeness in the park context. Additionally, an SNR of at least 5 dB is desirable when considering the restorative experiences of children in classrooms and urban parks.
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15
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Xu T, Ye X, Lu X, Lan G, Xie M, Huang Z, Wang T, Wu J, Zhan Z, Xie X. Association between solid cooking fuel and cognitive decline: Three nationwide cohort studies in middle-aged and older population. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 173:107803. [PMID: 36805161 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.107803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Household solid-fuel burning contributes to indoor air pollution and is linked to poor cognitive function, but how solid cooking fuel use leads to cognitive decline over time is not well elaborated. OBJECTIVE We examine the associations of solid cooking fuel with cognitive function among three nationally representative cohorts. METHODS This study uses data from the 2010-2018 China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), the 2011-2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) and the 2003-2015 Mexican Health and Aging Study (MHAS) in adults over the age of 50. Time varying Cox model was conducted to measure the association between cooking fuel types and cognitive decline. Mediation analysis was used to estimate the potential mediation effects on the associations of cooking fuel types with cognitive decline risk. RESULTS Respondents in CFPS, CHARLS, and MHAS relied on solid cooking fuel at baseline approximately 56 %, 51 %, and 12 %, respectively. Using solid fuel was consistently associated with higher risk of cognitive decline in three cohorts (CFPS: HR = 1.300 [95 % CI: 1.201, 1.407], CHARLS: HR = 1.179 [95 % CI: 1.059, 1.312], MHAS: HR = 1.237 [95 % CI: 1.123, 1.362]). Compared to those with persistent solid fuel, persistent clean fuel and change from solid fuel to clean fuel were associated with a lower risk of cognitive decline. Hypertension, diabetes, physical activity, dyslipidemia and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) may partially mediate the cognitive decline caused by solid fuel use. Of the cognitive decline burden, 18.23 % (95 % CI: 12.21 %, 24.73 %) in CFPS, 8.90 % (95 % CI: 2.93 %, 15.52 %) in CHARLS and 2.92 % (95 % CI: 1.52 %, 4.46 %) in MHAS of cognitive decline cases attributable to solid cooking fuel use. CONCLUSION The use of solid cooking fuel is associated with a higher risk of cognitive decline. It is essential to promote the expanded use of clean fuel to protect cognitive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Xu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiaoying Ye
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiaoli Lu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Guohui Lan
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Mengying Xie
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zelin Huang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Tinggui Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jieyu Wu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zhiying Zhan
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiaoxu Xie
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Clinical Research Unit, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China.
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16
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Godina SL, Rosso AL, Hirsch JA, Besser LM, Lovasi GS, Donovan GH, Garg PK, Platt JM, Fitzpatrick AL, Lopez OL, Carlson MC, Michael YL. Neighborhood greenspace and cognition: The cardiovascular health study. Health Place 2023; 79:102960. [PMID: 36603455 PMCID: PMC9928891 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2022.102960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We examined whether greenspace measures (overall percent greenspace and forest, and number of greenspace types) were associated with clinically adjudicated dementia status. METHODS In a sample of non-demented older adults (n = 2141, average age = 75.3 years) from the Cardiovascular Health and Cognition Study, Cox proportional hazard and logistic regression analyses were used to estimate associations of baseline greenspace with risks of incident dementia and MCI, respectively, while adjusting for demographics, co-morbidities, and other neighborhood factors. We derived quartiles of percent greenness (greenspace), forest (percent tree canopy cover), and tertiles of greenspace diversity (number of greenspace types) for 5-km radial buffers around participant's residences at study entry (1989-1990) from the 1992 National Land Cover Dataset. Dementia status and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) over 10 years was clinically adjudicated. RESULTS We observed no significant association between overall percent greenspace and risk of mild cognitive impairment or dementia and mostly null results for forest and greenspace diversity. Forest greenspace was associated with lower odds of MCI (OR quartile 4 versus 1: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.29-0.98) and greenspace diversity was associated with lower hazard of incident dementia (HR tertile 2 versus 1: 0.70, 95% CI = 0.50-0.99). DISCUSSION We found divergent results for different types of greenspace and mild cognitive impairment or dementia. Improved greenspace type and diversity measurement could better characterize the association between greenspace and cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara L Godina
- University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, 130 DeSoto Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.
| | - Andrea L Rosso
- University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, 130 DeSoto Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Jana A Hirsch
- Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health, Urban Health Collaborative, 3600 Market Street, 7th Floor, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Lilah M Besser
- Comprehensive Center for Brain Health, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 7700 W Camino Real, Suite 200, Boca Raton, FL, 33433, USA
| | - Gina S Lovasi
- Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health, Urban Health Collaborative, 3600 Market Street, 7th Floor, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Geoffrey H Donovan
- U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, PNW Research Station, 620 SW Main, Suite 502, Portland, OR, 97205, USA
| | - Parveen K Garg
- University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, 1975 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Jonathan M Platt
- The University of Iowa, College of Public Health, 145 N. Riverside Drive, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Annette L Fitzpatrick
- University of Washington School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, 3980 15th Avenue NE, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Oscar L Lopez
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Kaufmann Medical Building, 3471 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Michelle C Carlson
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Mental Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Yvonne L Michael
- Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health, Urban Health Collaborative, 3600 Market Street, 7th Floor, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
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Bower M, Kent J, Patulny R, Green O, McGrath L, Teesson L, Jamalishahni T, Sandison H, Rugel E. The impact of the built environment on loneliness: A systematic review and narrative synthesis. Health Place 2023; 79:102962. [PMID: 36623467 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2022.102962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Loneliness is a pressing public health issue. Although quintessentially individual, it is shaped by wider environmental, cultural, socio-economic, and political circumstances. Using a systematic review methodology, this paper draws on interdisciplinary research to conceptualise the relationship between the built environment and loneliness. We present a narrative synthesis of 57 relevant studies to characterise the body of evidence and highlight specific built-environment elements. Our findings demonstrate the need for further conceptual and empirical explorations of the multifaceted ways in which built environments can prevent loneliness, supporting calls for investment into this public-health approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlee Bower
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Jennifer Kent
- The University of Sydney School of Architecture, Design, and Planning, The University of Sydney, Australia.
| | - Roger Patulny
- Faculty of the Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities, University of Wollongong, Australia
| | - Olivia Green
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Laura McGrath
- Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, The Open University, Milton Keynes, England; UK
| | - Lily Teesson
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Hannah Sandison
- The University of Sydney School of Architecture, Design, and Planning, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Emily Rugel
- Westmead Applied Research Centre, The University of Sydney, Australia
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18
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Astell-Burt T, Hartig T, Putra IGNE, Walsan R, Dendup T, Feng X. Green space and loneliness: A systematic review with theoretical and methodological guidance for future research. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 847:157521. [PMID: 35878853 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.157521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Persistent loneliness troubles people across the life span, with prevalence as high as 61 % in some groups. Urban greening may help to reduce the population health impacts of loneliness and its concomitants, such as hopelessness and despair. However, the literature lacks both a critical appraisal of extant evidence and a conceptual model to explain how green space would work as a structural intervention. Both are needed to guide decision making and further research. We conducted a systematic review of quantitative studies testing associations between green space and loneliness, searching seven databases. Twenty two studies were identified by 25/01/2022. Most of the studies were conducted in high-income countries and fifteen (68 %) had cross-sectional designs. Green space was measured inconsistently using either objective or subjective indicators. Few studies examined specific green space types or qualities. The majority of studies measured general loneliness (e.g. using the UCLA loneliness scale). Different types of loneliness (social, emotional, existential) were not analysed. Of 132 associations, 88 (66.6 %) indicated potential protection from green space against loneliness, with 44 (33.3 %) reaching statistical significance (p < 0.05). We integrated these findings with evidence from qualitative studies to elaborate and extend the existing pathway domain model linking green space and health. These elaborations and extensions acknowledge the following: (a) different types of green space have implications for different types of loneliness; (b) multilevel circumstances influence the likelihood a person will benefit or suffer harm from green space; (c) personal, relational, and collective processes operate within different domains of pathways linking green space with loneliness and its concomitants; (d) loneliness and its concomitants are explicitly positioned as mediators within the broader causal system that links green space with health and wellbeing. This review and model provide guidance for decision making and further epidemiological research on green space and loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Astell-Burt
- Population Wellbeing and Environment Research Lab (PowerLab), NSW, Australia; School of Health and Society, Faculty of Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia.
| | - Terry Hartig
- Institute for Housing and Urban Research, Uppsala University, Sweden; Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - I Gusti Ngurah Edi Putra
- Population Wellbeing and Environment Research Lab (PowerLab), NSW, Australia; Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Ramya Walsan
- Centre of Health Systems and Safety Research, Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tashi Dendup
- Population Wellbeing and Environment Research Lab (PowerLab), NSW, Australia; Save the Children, Bhutan Office, Thimphu, Bhutan
| | - Xiaoqi Feng
- Population Wellbeing and Environment Research Lab (PowerLab), NSW, Australia; School of Health and Society, Faculty of Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia; School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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Tomasso LP, Chen JT. Toward a Theory of Nature Experience and Health. ECOPSYCHOLOGY 2022; 14:282-297. [PMID: 36590863 PMCID: PMC9793414 DOI: 10.1089/eco.2022.0005] [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: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
This article presents an integrated theoretical framework to study the socioenvironmental attributes of the nature experience as a basic health behavior. After first reviewing existing literature on theories behind nature exposure, we discuss social cognitive theory (SCT) to explain individual nature experience through the model's triadic dynamic of environment, cognitions, and behaviors. We then expand beyond SCT's focus on the individual to examine structural and societal spheres of influence on nature experience found in ecological systems theory and ecosocial theory. In moving from proximal to distal influences, we identify the core constructs of each theory that may reinforce or deter decisions inclining individuals toward nature engagement. In synthesizing aspects of these three theories, we propose an integrated theoretical framework of nature experience distinguished by three ideas. First, individual-level formative influences in nature pervade higher level ecologies as a learned social behavior. Second, nature experience happens within multiple systems and timepoints. Third, social relationships within historical processes shape contextual factors of the nature experience, resulting in disparities in nature access and nature responses that manifest heterogeneously. Theorizing behind nature experience can inform why this occurs. We offer suggestions for further research to build on the groundwork put forth here: for hypothesizing around present observations, for collecting data to confirm and/or refute parts of the theory, and for further hypothesis generation inspired by the theory to inform the research agenda. In conclusion, we consider the practical implications of theory underlying nature experience as a health behavior relevant to research, interventions, and policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Powers Tomasso
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Population Health Sciences Program, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Address correspondence to: Linda Powers Tomasso, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 401 Park Drive, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Jarvis T. Chen
- Population Health Sciences Program, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Ricciardi E, Spano G, Lopez A, Tinella L, Clemente C, Elia G, Dadvand P, Sanesi G, Bosco A, Caffò AO. Long-Term Exposure to Greenspace and Cognitive Function during the Lifespan: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191811700. [PMID: 36141977 PMCID: PMC9517665 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in environmental psychology highlighted the beneficial role of greenspace exposure on cognition. We conducted a systematic review of the available studies on the association of long-term exposure to greenspace and cognitive functions across the lifespan. PRISMA guidelines and the PECOs method were applied to screen for eligible studies. Twenty-five studies from Scopus, PubMed, and PsycINFO met the inclusion criteria. Six studies were longitudinal and nineteen cross-sectional. Fifteen studies focused on schoolchildren, six studies on adults, and four on the elderly. Twenty studies used the NDVI to assess greenspace exposure and the remaining used other indexes. Eight studies employed academic achievement as the outcome, eight studies global cognition, six studies attention/executive functions, and three studies memory. The evidence was inconsistent but suggestive for a beneficial role of greenspace exposure on cognitive functions. Further studies are required, especially among adults and older people, by adopting longitudinal designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Ricciardi
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Studies of Bari, 70122 Bari, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Spano
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Studies of Bari, 70122 Bari, Italy
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Studies of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Antonella Lopez
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Studies of Bari, 70122 Bari, Italy
- Faculty of Law, Giustino Fortunato University, 82100 Benevento, Italy
| | - Luigi Tinella
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Studies of Bari, 70122 Bari, Italy
| | - Carmine Clemente
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Studies of Bari, 70122 Bari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Elia
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Studies of Bari, 70122 Bari, Italy
| | - Payam Dadvand
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), 08003 Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiologíay Salud Publica (CIBERESP), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Giovanni Sanesi
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Studies of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Andrea Bosco
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Studies of Bari, 70122 Bari, Italy
| | - Alessandro Oronzo Caffò
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Studies of Bari, 70122 Bari, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Effects of the COVID-19 Outbreak on the Use and Perceptions of Metropolitan Agricultural Parks—Evidence from Milan and Naples of Urban and Environmental Resilience. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14127509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
This article describes the multi-function of the metropolitan agricultural parks (MAPs) in Milan (Parco Agricolo Sud Milano) and Naples (Parco De Filippo) and their resilience within the last COVID-19 lockdown period. These parks play an important role in the urban regeneration and social inclusion processes in their relative metropolitan areas. Nevertheless, the restrictions imposed to limit COVID-19 contagions have imposed their closure or severely limited their activities, with evident consequences for the local population’s well-being. This study’s novelty is twofold: it is the first study examining the resilience and sustainability impact of MAPs during COVID-19; additionally, it is the first survey making use of Milan and Naples practices. The work uses primary and secondary data and mixed methods. Exploiting a document analysis and the elaboration of a semi-structured interview with the directors, the article lists the multiple functions of the parks and underlines their multidimensional governance vocations for fostering sustainable development—environmental, economic and social functions. The study also reveals that, during the lockdown, the parks’ activities were strongly reduced or restructured. Recreational and educational activities were lifted in Parco Agricolo Sud in Milan whilst local farms restructured their food supply and fostered their network and linkages with the urban distribution channels. MAP in Naples had to stop its activities and reorganize into a smart-working system. Lastly, our study found that economic and farm network activities were resumed with greater urgency in Milan, whereas in Naples the recovery of the social practices has taken on greater importance.
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Human-Nature Interactions during and after the COVID-19 Pandemic in Moscow, Russia: Exploring the Role of Contact with Nature and Main Lessons from the City Responses. LAND 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/land11060822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Urban green spaces (UGS) as essential elements of the urban environment provide multiple ecosystem services including benefits for physical and mental health. Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions have influenced human relationships with nature. Based on empirical research, this article explores the pathways and implications of human-nature interactions during and after COVID-19 and how human health and well-being could be supported by contact with nature. The article discusses the reasons that attract people to visit UGS (value of UGS, their perceptions, ways of contact with urban nature, etc.). It also analyses the effects of social isolation on the usage and perception of UGS during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The research revealed current needs for UGS and their role in adaptation of urban development and greening strategy. For this purpose, an online questionnaire survey among residents of Moscow was conducted in April–July of 2020 when restrictive measures were imposed in the city in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, non-participatory observations and photo documentation were used to supplement the data on UGS visitation and use. The GIS mapping method was applied to analyze the UGS provision (availability and accessibility of UGS). Moreover, expert interviews were conducted aiming to explore the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on the urban fabric and life of the citizens. The aim was to reveal the main tendencies that can be used in the adaptation of urban development plans, especially regarding UGS and human-nature interactions. The results show that citizens (both survey respondents and experts) highly value urban nature as a tool for coping with COVID-19 challenges. They underlined a need for accessible UGS, most notably for breathing fresh air, reducing stress, relaxing, and observing and enjoying nature. The survey also revealed the particular health effects resulting from the reduction of UGS visitations due to COVID-19 restrictions. Several changes in human-nature interactions were also observed: many respondents especially missed spending time outdoors and meeting other people. That highlights the fact that while UGS normally provides places for social integration and socializing, during the COVID-19 isolation UGS were especially valued in regard to physical health and well-being (self-recovery). Both respondents and experts expressed their opinions regarding the future development of UGS network and how the UGS’s structure and design should be adapted to the current challenges. The claimed interests/preferences included the need for providing all residents equal access to UGS in a time of pandemics and post pandemics. A set of limitations and directions for future research of UGS was suggested.
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Rodriguez-Loureiro L, Gadeyne S, Bauwelinck M, Lefebvre W, Vanpoucke C, Casas L. Long-term exposure to residential greenness and neurodegenerative disease mortality among older adults: a 13-year follow-up cohort study. Environ Health 2022; 21:49. [PMID: 35525977 PMCID: PMC9077872 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-022-00863-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Living in greener areas is associated with slower cognitive decline and reduced dementia risk among older adults, but the evidence with neurodegenerative disease mortality is scarce. We studied the association between residential surrounding greenness and neurodegenerative disease mortality in older adults. METHODS We used data from the 2001 Belgian census linked to mortality register data during 2001-2014. We included individuals aged 60 years or older and residing in the five largest Belgian urban areas at baseline (2001). Exposure to residential surrounding greenness was assessed using the 2006 Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) within 500-m from residence. We considered all neurodegenerative diseases and four specific outcomes: Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, unspecified dementia, and Parkinson's disease. We fitted Cox proportional hazard models to obtain hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of the associations between one interquartile range (IQR) increment in surrounding greenness and neurodegenerative disease mortality outcomes, adjusted for census-based covariates. Furthermore, we evaluated the potential role of 2010 air pollution (PM2.5 and NO2) concentrations, and we explored effect modification by sociodemographic characteristics. RESULTS From 1,134,502 individuals included at baseline, 6.1% died from neurodegenerative diseases during follow-up. After full adjustment, one IQR (0.22) increment of surrounding greenness was associated with a 4-5% reduction in premature mortality from all neurodegenerative diseases, Alzheimer's disease, vascular and unspecified dementia [e.g., for Alzheimer's disease mortality: HR 0.95 (95%CI: 0.93, 0.98)]. No association was found with Parkinson's disease mortality. Main associations remained for all neurodegenerative disease mortality when accounting for air pollution, but not for the majority of specific mortality outcomes. Associations were strongest in the lower educated and residents from most deprived neighbourhoods. CONCLUSIONS Living near greener spaces may reduce the risk of neurodegenerative disease mortality among older adults, potentially independent from air pollution. Socioeconomically disadvantaged groups may experience the greatest beneficial effect.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sylvie Gadeyne
- Interface Demography, Department of Sociology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mariska Bauwelinck
- Interface Demography, Department of Sociology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Wouter Lefebvre
- Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Mol, Belgium
| | | | - Lidia Casas
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, Social Epidemiology and Health Policy, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
- Institute for Environment and Sustainable Development (IMDO), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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Petrunoff NA, Edney S, Yi NX, Dickens BL, Joel KR, Xin WN, Sia A, Leong D, van Dam RM, Cook AR, Sallis JF, Chandrabose M, Owen N, Müller-Riemenschneider F. Associations of park features with park use and park-based physical activity in an urban environment in Asia: A cross-sectional study. Health Place 2022; 75:102790. [PMID: 35316722 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2022.102790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Park use is associated with health, yet our understanding of park features related to their use is limited. Singapore's parks were audited for 30 micro-features, then geospatial analysis characterized micro-features scores for parks nearest to participants' homes. Adults (3,435) reported their park use and park-based physical activity. Using linear regression models, we found living near a park with higher micro-features scores was associated with more time in parks and park-based physical activity. Specific micro-features were associated with more park time (wildlife areas, water features, forested areas, unpaved trails (2-2.6 h/month, p < 0.05)) and with physical activity in parks (water features, forested areas, large playground, open green spaces (1.8-2.2 h/month, p < 0.05)). These findings could inform parks planning to support population-health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Petrunoff
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore.
| | - Sarah Edney
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Ng Xian Yi
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Borame L Dickens
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Koo Ruihan Joel
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Wang Nan Xin
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore; Department of Human Nutrition, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Angelia Sia
- Centre for Urban Greenery & Ecology, National Parks Board Singapore, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore; Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Duncan Leong
- GIS Hub, National Parks Board Singapore, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore
| | - Rob M van Dam
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore; Department of Nutrition and Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, United States
| | - Alex R Cook
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore
| | - James F Sallis
- Mary Mackillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia; Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Manoj Chandrabose
- Behavioural Epidemiology Laboratory, Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Urban Transitions, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Neville Owen
- Behavioural Epidemiology Laboratory, Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Urban Transitions, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Falk Müller-Riemenschneider
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore; Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Digital Health Center, Berlin Institute of Health, Germany
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Use of the Natural Outdoor Environment in Different Populations in Europe in Relation to Access: Implications for Policy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19042226. [PMID: 35206413 PMCID: PMC8872189 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19042226] [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: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
This cross-cultural study explores the relationship of natural outdoor environment (NOE) use with NOE access. Most urban planning recommendations suggest optimal accessibility to be 300 m-500 m straight distance to spaces with vegetation of at least 1 hectare. Exploring this recommendation, we used data (n = 3947) from four European cities collected in the framework of the PHENOTYPE study: Barcelona (Spain), Doetinchem (The Netherlands), Kaunas (Lithuania) and Stoke-on-Trent (United Kingdom) to obtain residential access to NOE (straight or network distances, using 300 m and 150 m buffers, to NOE larger than 1 hectare or 0.5 hectare) and use of NOE (i.e., self-reported time spent in NOE). Poisson regression models were used to examine the associations between residential access and use of NOE. The models with the strongest association with time spent in NOE in the combined sample were for those living within 300 m straight line distance to either 0.5 ha or 1 ha NOE. Noting that the only indicator that was consistent across all individual cities was living with 150 m network buffer of NOE (of at least 1 ha), this warrants further exploration in reducing recommendations of 300 m straight-line distance to 150 m network distance to 1 ha of NOE for a general indicator for cities within Europe.
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26
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Jimenez MP, Shoaff J, Kioumourtzoglou MA, Korrick S, Rifas-Shiman SL, Hivert MF, Oken E, James P. Early-Life Exposure to Green Space and Mid-Childhood Cognition in the Project Viva Cohort, Massachusetts. Am J Epidemiol 2022; 191:115-125. [PMID: 34308473 PMCID: PMC8897997 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwab209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The association between early-life greenness and child cognition is not well understood. Using prospective data from Project Viva (n = 857) from 1999-2010, we examined associations of early-life greenness exposure with mid-childhood cognition. We estimated residential greenness at birth, early childhood (median age 3.1 years), and mid-childhood (7.8 years) using 30-m resolution Landsat satellite imagery (normalized difference vegetation index). In early childhood and mid-childhood, we administered standardized assessments of verbal and nonverbal intelligence, visual-motor abilities, and visual memory. We used natural splines to examine associations of early life-course greenness with mid-childhood cognition, adjusting for age, sex, race, income, neighborhood socioeconomic status, maternal intelligence, and parental education. At lower levels of greenness (greenness <0.6), greenness exposure at early childhood was associated with a 0.48% increase in nonverbal intelligence and 2.64% increase in visual memory in mid-childhood. The association between early-childhood greenness and mid-childhood visual memory was observed after further adjusting for early childhood cognition and across different methodologies, while the association with nonverbal intelligence was not. No other associations between early life-course greenness and mid-childhood cognition were found. Early childhood greenness was nonlinearly associated with higher mid-childhood visual memory. Our findings highlight the importance of nonlinear associations between greenness and cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcia P Jimenez
- Correspondence to Dr. Marcia P. Jimenez, Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Landmark Center 401 Park Drive, Boston, MA 02215 (e-mail: )
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Zagnoli F, Filippini T, Jimenez MP, Wise LA, Hatch EE, Vinceti M. Is Greenness Associated with Dementia? A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-analysis. Curr Environ Health Rep 2022; 9:574-590. [PMID: 35857243 PMCID: PMC9729322 DOI: 10.1007/s40572-022-00365-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We assessed the relation between environmental greenness and risk of dementia and cognitive impairment, based on a systematic review and meta-analysis up to March 30, 2022, characterizing whenever possible the shape of the association using dose-response meta-analysis. RECENT FINDINGS Twelve studies were included in this review, either using normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) or land use/cover (LU/LC) methodology to assess greenness. Comparing the highest versus lowest exposure categories of greenness assessed using the NDVI (6 studies) or LU/LC (6 studies), we found no association with dementia. Dose-response meta-analysis of the association between greenness measured by LU/LC and dementia, based on only 3 studies, indicated a U-shaped association, but estimates were imprecise. Our systematic review and meta-analysis provided some evidence of a slight inverse association between greenness and dementia at intermediate exposure levels, but not at high levels. Potential methodological limitations, such as exposure misclassification and unmeasured confounding, may have affected the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Zagnoli
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia Medical School, 287 Via Campi, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Tommaso Filippini
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia Medical School, 287 Via Campi, 41125 Modena, Italy ,School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94704 USA
| | - Marcia P. Jimenez
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - Lauren A. Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - Elizabeth E. Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - Marco Vinceti
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia Medical School, 287 Via Campi, 41125 Modena, Italy ,Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118 USA
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Daniels S, Clemente DBP, Desart S, Saenen N, Sleurs H, Nawrot TS, Malina R, Plusquin M. Introducing nature at the work floor: A nature-based intervention to reduce stress and improve cognitive performance. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2021; 240:113884. [PMID: 34847453 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2021.113884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although a growing body of research has shown that exposure to nature has restorative effects on human health, the potential beneficial effects of nature-based interventions in the working environment are still underexplored. METHODS We performed a randomized controlled study with a nature-based program during working hours. We enrolled employees, randomized the participants into two groups being an intervention and a control group. Twice a week for three consecutive weeks, the intervention group participated in nature-based activities for 2 h. The primary outcomes were cognitive performance, burnout assessment, salivary cortisol levels, and continuous stress levels. We performed intervention-response analyses using mixed-effects models that included random effects for each participant across the different examinations. RESULTS Compared to the control group (n = 20), the intervention group (n = 25) participating in the nature-based program had a lower Burnout Assessment Tool score (-14.9% CI-16.2 to -14.3, difference; p < 0.001), lower salivary cortisol levels (-29.3% CI-34.7 to -25.3; p < 0.001) and higher visual information processing speed (7.4% CI6.9-8.0; p < 0.001). Selective attention of the participants that participated in the nature-based program improved during the interventions (-10.6 CI-19.6 to -6.9, p = 0.045), compared to the controls. CONCLUSIONS This study provides novel evidence that exposure to nature during work hours reduces stress and improves cognitive performance. The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number: NCT04111796.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvie Daniels
- Center for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Agoralaan gebouw D, 3590, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Diana B P Clemente
- Center for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Agoralaan gebouw D, 3590, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Steffie Desart
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Leuven University, Oude Markt 13 - bus 5005, 3000, Leuven, Belgium; IDEWE, Interleuvenlaan 58, 3001, Leuven, Vlaams-Brabant, Belgium
| | - Nelly Saenen
- Center for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Agoralaan gebouw D, 3590, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Hanne Sleurs
- Center for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Agoralaan gebouw D, 3590, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Tim S Nawrot
- Center for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Agoralaan gebouw D, 3590, Diepenbeek, Belgium; Department of Public Health & Primary Care, Unit Environment & Health, Leuven University, Herestraat 49, 3001, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Robert Malina
- Center for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Agoralaan gebouw D, 3590, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Michelle Plusquin
- Center for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Agoralaan gebouw D, 3590, Diepenbeek, Belgium.
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Schmitt AC, Baudendistel ST, Lipat AL, White TA, Raffegeau TE, Hass CJ. Walking indoors, outdoors, and on a treadmill: Gait differences in healthy young and older adults. Gait Posture 2021; 90:468-474. [PMID: 34619613 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2021.09.197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although human gait is typically studied in a laboratory environment, the findings of laboratory-based gait assessments are often applied to daily life scenarios. Assessing gait in varied conditions may offer a better understanding of the influence of environment on gait performance. RESEARCH QUESTIONS How do spatiotemporal gait measures differ between indoor overground walking, outdoor walking, and treadmill walking in healthy adults? Do different walking environments exaggerate age-related alterations in gait performance in older compared to young adults? METHODS 30 young (18-30yrs) and 28 older adults (60-80yrs) completed four randomized conditions at their typical, comfortable walking pace: 1) 8 m of indoor walking, 2) continuous indoor walking, 3) treadmill walking, and 4) outdoor walking on a sidewalk. Wearable inertial sensors recorded gait data and the magnitudes and variability (in standard deviations) of the following gait measures were computed: cadence, percent double support, stride length (with sample entropy), and gait velocity. RESULTS Despite the lack of significant univariate interactions between group and walking condition, significant main effects for condition and group were observed in both the magnitude and variability analyses. Treadmill walking resulted in a slower gait with shorter, less variable strides (p < .001), while walking outdoors resulted in faster gait with longer strides (p < .001) compared to other walking conditions. Stride length regularity was reduced when walking outdoors compared to treadmill walking (p = .019). SIGNIFICANCE The results showed that the effects of walking condition on gait measures were more dramatic than participant age, and gait performance differs between walking environments in both older and younger adults. Since daily life gait encompasses both tightly controlled and unconstrained, free-living walking, researchers and clinicians should use caution when generalizing gait performance across walking conditions. Measures of gait performance typically used in laboratory gait analyses may not adequately characterize daily life gait in indoor and outdoor environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail C Schmitt
- Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, USA; Applied Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA.
| | - Sidney T Baudendistel
- Applied Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Ania L Lipat
- Applied Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Tatiana A White
- Applied Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Tiphanie E Raffegeau
- Department of Health, Kinesiology, and Recreation at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Present address: Division of Execise Physiology, School of Applied Health Sciences and Wellness, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Chris J Hass
- Applied Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
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Besser LM, Lovasi GS, Michael YL, Garg P, Hirsch JA, Siscovick D, Hurvitz P, Biggs ML, Galvin JE, Bartz TM, Longstreth WT. Associations between neighborhood greenspace and brain imaging measures in non-demented older adults: the Cardiovascular Health Study. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2021; 56:1575-1585. [PMID: 33388800 PMCID: PMC8253869 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-020-02000-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Greater neighborhood greenspace has been associated with brain health, including better cognition and lower odds of Alzheimer's disease in older adults. We investigated associations between neighborhood greenspace and brain-based magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measures and potential effect modification by sex or apolipoprotein E genotype (APOE), a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. METHODS We obtained a sample of non-demented participants 65 years or older (n = 1125) from the longitudinal, population-based Cardiovascular Health Study (CHS). Greenspace data were derived from the National Land Cover Dataset. Adjusted multivariable linear regression estimated associations between neighborhood greenspace five years prior to the MRI and left and right hippocampal volume and 10-point grades of ventricular size and burden of white matter hyperintensity. Interaction terms tested effect modification by APOE genotype and sex. CHS data (1989-1999) were obtained/analyzed in 2020. RESULTS Participants were on average 79 years old [standard deviation (SD) = 4], 58% were female, and 11% were non-white race. Mean neighborhood greenspace was 38% (SD = 28%). Greater proportion of greenspace in the neighborhood five years before MRI was borderline associated with lower ventricle grade (estimate: - 0.30; 95% confidence interval: - 0.61, 0.00). We observed no associations between greenspace and the other MRI outcome measures and no evidence of effect modification by APOE genotype and sex. CONCLUSION This study suggests a possible association between greater greenspace and less ventricular enlargement, a measure reflecting global brain atrophy. If confirmed in other longitudinal cohort studies, interventions and policies to improve community greenspaces may help to maintain brain health in older age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilah M Besser
- Institute for Human Health and Disease Intervention, Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Rd, SO-44, Room 284H, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, USA.
| | - Gina S Lovasi
- Urban Health Collaborative and Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Yvonne L Michael
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornslife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Parveen Garg
- Division of Cardiology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, 1510 San Pablo Street Suite #322, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Jana A Hirsch
- Urban Health Collaborative and Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - David Siscovick
- Division of Research, Evaluation, and Policy, The New York Academy of Medicine, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Phil Hurvitz
- Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology and Urban Form Lab, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Mary L Biggs
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - James E Galvin
- Comprehensive Center for Brain Health, Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Traci M Bartz
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - W T Longstreth
- Departments of Neurology and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195-9775, USA
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES Summarise studies of outdoor green space exposure and brain health measures related to Alzheimer's disease and related disorders (ADRD), and determine scientific gaps for future research. DESIGN Rapid review of primary research studies. METHODS AND OUTCOMES PubMed, Embase and Web of Science Core Collection were searched for articles meeting the criteria published on/before 13 February 2020. The review excluded papers not in English, focused on transient states (eg, mental fatigue) or not using individual-level measures of brain health (eg, average school test scores). Brain health measures of interest included cognitive function, clinical diagnosis of cognitive impairment/dementia/ADRD and brain biomarkers such as those from MRI, measures typically associated with ADRD risk and disease progression. RESULTS Twenty-two papers were published from 2012 to 2020, 36% on <18 years old, 32% on 18-64 years old and 59% on ≥65 years old. Sixty-four per cent defined green space based on the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index ('greenness'/healthy vegetation) and 68% focused on cognitive measures of brain health (eg, memory). Seventeen studies (77%) found green space-brain health associations (14 positive, 4 inverse). Greater greenness/green space was positively associated various cognitive domains in 10 studies and with MRI outcomes (regional brain volumes, cortical thickness, amygdala integrity) in three studies. Greater neighbourhood greenness was associated with lower odds/risk of cognitive impairment/ADRD in some studies but increased odds/risk in others (n=4 studies). CONCLUSIONS Published studies suggest positive green space-brain health associations across the life course, but the methods and cohorts were limited and heterogeneous. Future research using racially/ethnically and geographically diverse cohorts, life course methods and more specific green space and brain health measures (eg, time spent in green spaces, ADRD biomarkers) will strengthen evidence for causal associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilah Besser
- Institute for Human Health and Disease Intervention, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida, USA
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Marselle MR, Hartig T, Cox DTC, de Bell S, Knapp S, Lindley S, Triguero-Mas M, Böhning-Gaese K, Braubach M, Cook PA, de Vries S, Heintz-Buschart A, Hofmann M, Irvine KN, Kabisch N, Kolek F, Kraemer R, Markevych I, Martens D, Müller R, Nieuwenhuijsen M, Potts JM, Stadler J, Walton S, Warber SL, Bonn A. Pathways linking biodiversity to human health: A conceptual framework. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 150:106420. [PMID: 33556912 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Biodiversity is a cornerstone of human health and well-being. However, while evidence of the contributions of nature to human health is rapidly building, research into how biodiversity relates to human health remains limited in important respects. In particular, a better mechanistic understanding of the range of pathways through which biodiversity can influence human health is needed. These pathways relate to both psychological and social processes as well as biophysical processes. Building on evidence from across the natural, social and health sciences, we present a conceptual framework organizing the pathways linking biodiversity to human health. Four domains of pathways-both beneficial as well as harmful-link biodiversity with human health: (i) reducing harm (e.g. provision of medicines, decreasing exposure to air and noise pollution); (ii) restoring capacities (e.g. attention restoration, stress reduction); (iii) building capacities (e.g. promoting physical activity, transcendent experiences); and (iv) causing harm (e.g. dangerous wildlife, zoonotic diseases, allergens). We discuss how to test components of the biodiversity-health framework with available analytical approaches and existing datasets. In a world with accelerating declines in biodiversity, profound land-use change, and an increase in non-communicable and zoonotic diseases globally, greater understanding of these pathways can reinforce biodiversity conservation as a strategy for the promotion of health for both people and nature. We conclude by identifying research avenues and recommendations for policy and practice to foster biodiversity-focused public health actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa R Marselle
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Department of Ecosystem Services, Permoserstraße 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstraße 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Institute of Biodiversity, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Dornburger Straße 159, 07743 Jena, Germany; Institute of Psychological Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester, United Kingdom.
| | - Terry Hartig
- Institute for Housing and Urban Research, Uppsala University, Box 514, SE-75120 Uppsala, Sweden; Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Box 1225, SE-75142 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Daniel T C Cox
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9FE, United Kingdom
| | - Siân de Bell
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3HD, United Kingdom
| | - Sonja Knapp
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Department of Community Ecology, Theodor-Lieser-Str. 4, 06120 Halle, Germany
| | - Sarah Lindley
- Department of Geography, School of Environment, Education and Development, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - Margarita Triguero-Mas
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institute for Environmental Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain; IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain; Barcelona Lab for Urban Environmental Justice and Sustainability, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Katrin Böhning-Gaese
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstraße 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (SBiK-F), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt (Main), Germany; Goethe University Frankfurt am Main, Institute for Ecology, Evolution & Diversity, Max-von-Laue-Str. 13, 60439 Frankfurt (Main), Germany
| | - Matthias Braubach
- WHO Regional Office for Europe, European Centre for Environment and Health, Platz der Vereinten Nationen 1, 53113 Bonn, Germany
| | - Penny A Cook
- School of Health and Society, University of Salford, Salford M6 6PU, United Kingdom
| | - Sjerp de Vries
- Cultural Geography, Wageningen Environmental Research, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 47, 6700 AA Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Anna Heintz-Buschart
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstraße 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Department of Soil Ecology, Theodor-Lieser-Str. 4, 06120 Halle, Germany
| | - Max Hofmann
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstraße 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Institute of Biology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Am Kirchtor 1, 06108 Halle (Saale), Germany; Leibniz Institute of Agricultural Development in Transition Economies (IAMO), Theodor-Lieser- Strasse 2, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Katherine N Irvine
- Social, Economic and Geographical Sciences Department, The James Hutton Institute, Aberdeen AB15 8QH, United Kingdom
| | - Nadja Kabisch
- Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Geography Department, Unter den Linden 6, 10099 Berlin, Germany; Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Department of Urban and Environmental Sociology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Franziska Kolek
- Chair and Institute of Environmental Medicine, UNIKA-T, Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Zentrum München, Germany - German Research Centre for Environmental Health, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Roland Kraemer
- Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Geography Department, Unter den Linden 6, 10099 Berlin, Germany; Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Department of Monitoring and Exploration Technologies, Permoserstraße 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Iana Markevych
- Institute of Psychology, Jagiellonian University, Ingardena 6, 33-332 Krakow, Poland
| | - Dörte Martens
- Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development, Faculty of Landscape Management and Nature Conservation, Eberswalde, Germany
| | - Ruth Müller
- Unit Entomology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium; Institute of Occupational Medicine, Social Medicine and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596 Frankfurt (Main), Germany
| | - Mark Nieuwenhuijsen
- ISGlobal, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jacqueline M Potts
- Biomathematics and Statistics Scotland, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen AB15 8QH, United Kingdom
| | - Jutta Stadler
- German Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN), Germany
| | - Samantha Walton
- Department of English Literature, Bath Spa University, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Sara L Warber
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3HD, United Kingdom; Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Aletta Bonn
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Department of Ecosystem Services, Permoserstraße 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstraße 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Institute of Biodiversity, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Dornburger Straße 159, 07743 Jena, Germany
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Qiao H, Du X, Li S, Sun Y, Feng W, Wu Y. Does older subjective age predict poorer cognitive function and higher risk of dementia in middle-aged and older adults? Psychiatry Res 2021; 298:113807. [PMID: 33631534 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2021.113807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
As a biopsychosocial marker of aging, subjective age (i.e., the age individuals feel regardless of their actual age) was related to many health issues in the elderly. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether subjective age is associated with subsequent cognition and dementia risk in middle-aged and older adults. Samples were drawn from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA). Participants reported their subjective ages at the baseline (2004/2005), and their cognitive functions were measured after 10 years (2014/2015). Newly diagnosed dementias were recorded between 2006/2007 to 2014/2015. Overall, 6,475 adults aged 50 years or older were included in the current analyses. The relationship between subjective age reported at baseline and cognition assessed ten years later was modeled using multiple linear regression models. Compared to participants who reported a younger subjective age, those who reported an older subjective age were more likely to have poorer cognition after ten years (β = -0.705, P = .002 for memory, β = -1.567, P = .001 for executive function). A Cox proportional hazard regression model suggested that older subjective age was an independent risk factor for incident dementia (HR = 1.737, 95% CI =1.060-2.848). Other than chronological age, subjective age could also be considered as an important predictor for the development of cognitive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haofei Qiao
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Public Health College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xinyu Du
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Public Health College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shiru Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Public Health College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yanping Sun
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Wenjing Feng
- Department of Geriatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yili Wu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Public Health College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.
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Lõhmus M, Stenfors CUD, Lind T, Lauber A, Georgelis A. Mental Health, Greenness, and Nature Related Behaviors in the Adult Population of Stockholm County during COVID-19-Related Restrictions. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18063303. [PMID: 33806787 PMCID: PMC8004976 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18063303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
International data suggest that exposure to nature is beneficial for mental health and well-being. The restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic have created a setting that allows us to investigate the importance of greenness exposure on mental health during a period of increased isolation and worry. Based on 2060 responses from an online survey in Stockholm County, Sweden, we investigated: (1) whether the COVID-19 pandemic changed peoples’ lifestyle and nature-related habits, and (2) if peoples’ mental health differed depending on their exposure to greenness. Neighborhood greenness levels were quantified by using the average normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) within 50 m, 100 m, 300 m, and 500 m buffers surrounding the participant’s place of residence. We found that the number of individuals that reported that they visited natural areas “often” was significantly higher during the pandemic than before the pandemic. Higher levels of greenness surrounding one’s location of residence were in general associated with higher mental health/well-being and vitality scores, and less symptoms of depression, anxiety, and perceived and cognitive stress, after adjustments for demographic variables and walkability. In conclusion, the results from the present study provided support to the suggestion that contact with nature may be important for mental health in extreme circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mare Lõhmus
- Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Region Stockholm, 113 65 Stockholm, Sweden; (T.L.); (A.L.); (A.G.)
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Box 210, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Correspondence:
| | - Cecilia U. D. Stenfors
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Aging Research Center, Department of Neurobiology, Care Science and Society, Karolinska Institute, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tomas Lind
- Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Region Stockholm, 113 65 Stockholm, Sweden; (T.L.); (A.L.); (A.G.)
| | - André Lauber
- Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Region Stockholm, 113 65 Stockholm, Sweden; (T.L.); (A.L.); (A.G.)
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Box 210, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Antonios Georgelis
- Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Region Stockholm, 113 65 Stockholm, Sweden; (T.L.); (A.L.); (A.G.)
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Box 210, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
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Virtual Reality Representations of Nature to Improve Well-Being amongst Older Adults: a Rapid Review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 6:464-485. [PMID: 33688575 PMCID: PMC7934124 DOI: 10.1007/s41347-021-00195-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Poor well-being amongst older adults poses a serious health concern. Simultaneously, research shows that contact with nature can improve various facets of well-being, including physical, social, and mental well-being. However, nature is not always accessible for older adults due to mobility restrictions and related care needs that come with age. A promising strategy aims at bringing nature inside through pervasive technologies. However, so far, there is little academic understanding of essential nature characteristics, psychological processes involved, and means for implementation in practice. The current study used a three-folded rapid review to assess current understanding and strategies used for improving well-being for older adults through virtual reality representations of nature. Searches were performed across three databases, followed-up by content-based evaluation of abstracts. In total, a set of 25 relevant articles was identified. Only three studies specifically focus on digital nature as an intervention strategy for improving well-being amongst older adults. Although these studies provide useful starting points for the design and (technological) development of such environments, they do not generate understanding of how specific characteristics of virtual nature representations impact social well-being measures in particular, and of the underlying psychological processes involved. We conclude that follow-up research is warranted to close the gap between insights and findings from nature research, gerontology, health research, and human-technology interaction.
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Effects of Three Levels of Green Exercise, Physical and Social Environments, Personality Traits, Physical Activity, and Engagement with Nature on Emotions and Attention. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13052686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The current study examined the effects of the three levels of green exercise on people’s psychological health using a randomized trial with a pretest and posttest design and further explored which variables of the physical environment (thermal comfort, noise, and air pollution), social environment (the number of companions and crowdedness), personality traits, physical activity (intensity and frequency), and engagement with nature may help explain experiences during the three levels of green exercise using a cross-sectional approach. Field studies were conducted to test the study’s hypotheses. The participants were 95 students from a technology university in Taiwan. The experiment comprised a 15-min green exercise in a park. No significant differences were found in emotions and attention between the three levels of green exercise. However, a 15-min green exercise of any level significantly improved emotions and attention. Furthermore, fatigue was significantly and negatively associated with daily transportation-related physical activity, agreeableness, and engagement with nature. Moreover, the total mood disturbance was significantly and negatively associated with engagement with nature and daily transportation-related physical activity. The degree of engagement with nature played a pivotal role in green exercise. This study provided the evidence that quantified engagement with nature is beneficial for quantified psychological health for the first time.
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Outdoor Air Pollution and Depression in Canada: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study from 2011 to 2016. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18052450. [PMID: 33801515 PMCID: PMC7967582 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18052450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
To assess whether exposure to increased levels of outdoor air pollution is associated with psychological depression, six annual iterations of the Canadian Community Health Survey (n ≈ 127,050) were used to estimate the prevalence of a major depressive episode (2011-2014) or severity of depressive symptoms (2015-2016). Survey data were linked with outdoor air pollution data obtained from the Canadian Urban Environmental Health Research Consortium, with outdoor air pollution represented by fine particulate matter ≤2.5 micrometers (μm) in diameter (PM2.5), ozone (O3), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). Log-binomial models were used to estimate the association between outdoor air pollution and depression, and included adjustment for age, sex, marital status, income, education, employment status, urban versus rural households, cigarette smoking, and chronic illness. No evidence of associations for either depression outcomes were found. Given the generally low levels of outdoor air pollution in Canada, these findings should be generalized with caution. It is possible that a meaningful association with major depression may be observed in regions of the world where the levels of outdoor air pollution are greater, or during high pollution events over brief time intervals. Future research is needed to replicate these findings and to further investigate these associations in other regions and populations.
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Knobel P, Maneja R, Bartoll X, Alonso L, Bauwelinck M, Valentin A, Zijlema W, Borrell C, Nieuwenhuijsen M, Dadvand P. Quality of urban green spaces influences residents' use of these spaces, physical activity, and overweight/obesity. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 271:116393. [PMID: 33388678 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.116393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The quality characteristics of urban green spaces (UGS) have been suggested to play a critical role in their use and their potentials to exert health effects. However, epidemiological studies evaluating such a role are scarce. These studies have generally focused on a limited number of quality dimensions. We studied the association between 10 UGS quality dimensions, assessed through a comprehensive multidimensional tool, and physical activity, overweight/obesity, and UGS use. Our study was based on 2053 adults participating in the Barcelona Health Survey (2016) and the quality of 149 UGS located in Barcelona, Spain. For each participant, we abstracted the average and maximum quality score separately for each of the 10 quality dimensions and an overall quality score for the UGS within 300 m of the participant's residential address. Data on the study outcomes were obtained through face-to-face interviews. We developed logistic regression and negative binomial models to assess our evaluated associations and conducted mediation analyses between the different outcomes. We observed that the overall quality of UGS was associated with higher likelihood of engaging in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (OR:1.13; 95% CI:1.00-1.27), lower risk of overweight/obesity (OR: 0.88; 95% CI: 0.79-0.98), and increased use of UGS (exponentiated regression coefficient: 1.08; 95% CI:1.01-1.15). For the quality dimensions, we observed different patterns of associations depending on the outcome; however, bird biodiversity and amenities seem to be relevant to all of our evaluated outcomes. The mediation analysis suggested that UGS use mediate the association between quality and physical activity, while physical activity mediates the association between quality and overweight/obesity. The novel results from this study will allow decision-makers better design UGS and directly pinpoint relevant quality dimensions to promote physical activity, reduce the risk of overweight/obesity and boost the use of UGS amongst citizens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Knobel
- Environment and Human Health Lab (EH2 Lab), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Environmental Science and Technology Institute (ICTA), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Forest Science and Technology Centre of Catalonia (CTFC), Solsona, Spain
| | - Roser Maneja
- Environment and Human Health Lab (EH2 Lab), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Geography Department, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Forest Science and Technology Centre of Catalonia (CTFC), Solsona, Spain.
| | - Xavier Bartoll
- Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Biomedical Research (IIB-Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Mariska Bauwelinck
- ISGlobal, Barcelona, Spain; Interface Demography (ID), Department of Sociology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO), Egmontstraat 5, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | - Carme Borrell
- Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Biomedical Research (IIB-Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain; Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain; Ciber on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Payam Dadvand
- ISGlobal, Barcelona, Spain; Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain; Ciber on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
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Assessing the Impact of Street-View Greenery on Fear of Neighborhood Crime in Guangzhou, China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18010311. [PMID: 33406619 PMCID: PMC7794801 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18010311] [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: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Previous literature has examined the relationship between the amount of green space and perceived safety in urban areas, but little is known about the effect of street-view neighborhood greenery on perceived neighborhood safety. Using a deep learning approach, we derived greenery from a massive set of street view images in central Guangzhou. We further tested the relationships and mechanisms between street-view greenery and fear of crime in the neighborhood. Results demonstrated that a higher level of neighborhood street-view greenery was associated with a lower fear of crime, and its relationship was mediated by perceived physical incivilities. While increasing street greenery of the micro-environment may reduce fear of crime, this paper also suggests that social factors should be considered when designing ameliorative programs.
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40
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Pamukcu-Albers P, Ugolini F, La Rosa D, Grădinaru SR, Azevedo JC, Wu J. Building green infrastructure to enhance urban resilience to climate change and pandemics. LANDSCAPE ECOLOGY 2021; 36:665-673. [PMID: 33686321 PMCID: PMC7930103 DOI: 10.1007/s10980-021-01212-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Francesca Ugolini
- Istituto per la Bioeconomia – Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Daniele La Rosa
- Dipartimento Ingegneria Civile e Architettura, Università Di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Simona R. Grădinaru
- Centre for Environmental Research and Impact Studies, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - João C. Azevedo
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Jianguo Wu
- School of Life Sciences, School of Sustainability, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ USA
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Besser L, Chang LC, Evenson KR, Hirsch J, Michael Y, Galvin JE, Rapp SR, Fitzpatrick AL, Heckbert SR, Kaufman JD, Hughes TM. Associations Between Neighborhood Park Access and Longitudinal Change in Cognition in Older Adults: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 82:221-233. [PMID: 34024841 PMCID: PMC8579707 DOI: 10.3233/jad-210370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preliminary evidence suggests associations between neighborhood park access and better late-life cognition and reduced Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk. OBJECTIVE Examine associations between neighborhood park access and longitudinal change in cognition among U.S. older adults without dementia. METHODS We used 2000-2018 observational data from the population-based, multi-site Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (n = 1,733). Measures included proportion of neighborhood park space (park access), distance to nearest park, and 6-year dichotomous and continuous change in scores on the Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument (CASI; global cognition) and Digit Symbol Coding task (processing speed). Multivariable random intercept models tested main associations and mediation by depressive symptoms, physical activity, and PM2.5 exposure. Effect modification by race (African Americans/Blacks versus Whites) was tested using interaction terms. RESULTS Greater park access (equivalent to 10%more in 1/2-mile around home) was associated with maintained/improved CASI score over six years independent of several covariates including individual- and neighborhood-level socioeconomic status (Odds ratio: 1.04; 95%confidence interval: 1.00-1.08). No other associations were observed with the dichotomous or continuous measures of cognitive change and no mediators were found. While a borderline association was seen between greater park access and maintained/improved CASI for African Americans/Blacks but not for Whites, effect modification was not confirmed by testing interaction terms. CONCLUSION Neighborhood park access may help maintain/improve late-life global cognition. However, our findings need replication in other population-based studies and regions. Additionally, studies are needed to determine if associations between park access and change in cognition vary by race/ethnicity to inform intervention efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilah Besser
- Institute for Human Health and Disease Intervention (I-HEALTH), Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton, FL 33431
| | - Lun-Ching Chang
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton, FL 33431
| | - Kelly R. Evenson
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of NC-Chapel Hill, 123 W. Franklin St, Building C, Suite 410, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
| | - Jana Hirsch
- Urban Health Collaborative and Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, 3600 Market St, Room 706, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Yvonne Michael
- Urban Health Collaborative and Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornslife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Nesbitt Hall, Room 552, 3215 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - James E. Galvin
- Comprehensive Center for Brain Health, Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1600 NW 10th Ave #1140, Miami, FL 33136
| | - Stephen R. Rapp
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 791 Jonestown Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27103
| | - Annette L. Fitzpatrick
- Departments of Family Medicine, Epidemiology, and Global Health, University of Washington, 4225 Roosevelt Way NW, Suite 308, Seattle, WA 98105
| | - Susan R. Heckbert
- Cardiovascular Health Research Unit and Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, 1730 Minor Avenue, Suite 1360, Seattle, WA 98101
| | - Joel D. Kaufman
- Departments of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, Medicine, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA, 98105
| | - Timothy M. Hughes
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Epidemiology and Prevention, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Med Center Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC 27104
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Peris E, Fenech B. Associations and effect modification between transportation noise, self-reported response to noise and the wider determinants of health: A narrative synthesis of the literature. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 748:141040. [PMID: 33113703 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Noise and health guidance to date have focused on the direct links between noise and health outcomes such as annoyance, sleep disturbance, cardiovascular and metabolic disease, and cognitive impairment in schoolchildren. However, noise is a psychosocial stressor, and there are individual studies showing that exposure to noise or the self-reported responses to noise may affect health through interactions with the wider determinants of health and well-being including physical activity, use of green spaces and social interactions. Despite this emerging evidence concerning potential impacts of noise on the wider determinants of health, literature in the field remains dispersed and unsynthesised. This study seeks to synthetize evidence on different relationships between transportation noise, self-reported responses to noise and the wider determinants of health using a systematic review methodology. The search was conducted in Medline, PsycINFO, PubMed, and Scopus on articles published from 2000 to 2017. This led to the review of 76 papers which satisfied the inclusion criteria. Despite strong heterogeneity in the studies' methodologies and indicators used, there is some evidence that noise exposure and responses to noise such as annoyance and disturbance are associated with people's lifestyle, recreational activities as well as the local economy of the neighbourhood. On the other hand, there are some wider determinants of health, mainly those related to the built and natural environment, which modify the relationship between noise exposure and self-reported responses to noise. In particular, greenness, having access to quiet areas, and covering noise sources either visually or acoustically with natural features seems to decrease people's negative responses to noise. Results indicate that transportation noise has the potential to affect health through various pathways, and a holistic approach is needed to capture all the effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eulalia Peris
- Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, UK
| | - Benjamin Fenech
- Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, UK.
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Reuben A, Rutherford GW, James J, Razani N. Association of neighborhood parks with child health in the United States. Prev Med 2020; 141:106265. [PMID: 33035547 PMCID: PMC8034548 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2020.106265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
While there is evidence that parks support pediatric health, there have been no national studies looking at both physical and mental health. We assessed whether the presence of a neighborhood park is associated with pediatric physical or mental health across the U.S. using a nationally representative cross-sectional random sample of American children ages 0-17. Caregivers reported on the park presence in their child's neighborhood and the child's physical activity, screen-time, sleep, weight, and diagnosis of anxiety, depression, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Covariates included child and family sociodemographics and, for 29 states, neighborhood urbanicity. Caregivers reported on 49,146 children (mean age 9.4 years; 49% female). There were 11,791 (24%) children living in neighborhoods lacking a park; children in non-urban locations (aOR 2.19, 95% CI 1.40-1.67) or below the federal poverty level (aOR = 1.48, 95%CI 1.38-1.58) had higher odds of lacking a park. Irrespective of sociodemographics, children lacking parks were more likely to be physically inactive (aOR1.36, 95% CI 1.24, 1.48), have excessive screen-time (aOR = 1.19, 95% CI 1.14, 1.25), or obtain inadequate sleep (aOR = 1.23, 95% CI 1.18, 1.29). Children without parks were more likely obese (aOR = 1.32, 95% CI 1.21, 1.43), overweight (aOR 1.25, 95%CI 1.17, 1.33), or diagnosed with ADHD (aOR 1.20, 95% CI 1.12, 1.29), but not more anxious or depressed (aOR = 1.04, 95%CI 0.97, 1.11). Associations between parks and pediatric physical and mental health suggests that the provision of neighborhood parks could represent a low-cost childhood health intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Reuben
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - George W Rutherford
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jameze James
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nooshin Razani
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Center for Health and Nature, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, Oakland, Oakland, CA, USA.
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Astell-Burt T, Navakatikyan MA, Feng X. Urban green space, tree canopy and 11-year risk of dementia in a cohort of 109,688 Australians. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 145:106102. [PMID: 32979811 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.106102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Urban greening is a climate change-related policy with considerable health benefits. But do these benefits extend to prevention of dementia and, if so, which types of green space matter? METHOD Multilevel discrete time-to-event cohort study of incident Alzheimer's disease over 11 years among a baseline recruited between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2009 (the Sax Institute's 45 and Up Study). Sampled participants for this study (N=109,688) were aged 45 years or older with no record of dementia up to 6 years before baseline, living in the cities of Sydney, Wollongong and Newcastle, Australia. Exposures were percentage total green space, tree canopy and open grass within 1.6-km road network distance buffers at baseline. Outcomes were time-to-first anti-dementia medication prescription (Department of Human Services) or dementia detected during hospitalisation or death up to 31 December 2016 (up to 11 years follow-up). Outcomes were analysed in parallel to triangulate on associations with green space, while testing for bias due to potential under-prescribing of anti-dementia medications. Models were adjusted for baseline person-level factors and area-level socioeconomic disadvantage. RESULTS Dementia detection varied by case ascertainment method. 1.55% (1,703/109,688) persons were detected using prescribed anti-dementia medications. 3.32% (3,639/109,688) persons were detected during hospitalisation or death via ICD-10 codes. Dementia incidence irrespective of outcome measurement was lower among females, younger participants, those living in couples, with higher qualifications and higher incomes. Dementia risk was lower with more tree canopy when the outcome was measured using hospital and death records (≥30% vs <10% tree canopy incidence hazard ratio (IHR) = 0.86, 95%CI 0.75, 0.99), after adjusting for person-level factors. The opposite association was observed when anti-dementia medications were used to detect dementia (≥30% vs <10% tree canopy IHR = 1.33, 95%CI 1.07, 1.66). Anti-dementia medication-based detection also indicated lower dementia risk with more open grass (≥20% vs <5% IHR = 0.83, 95%CI 0.67, 1.03). Anti-dementia medication prescribing was lower in the highest vs. lowest area-level disadvantage tertile (29.8% vs. 43.7%) among people diagnosed with dementia, indicating potential bias from geographic differences in prescribing practices. Adjusting for area-level disadvantage explained associations between tree canopy, open grass and dementia when detected by anti-dementia medication, but had negligible impact on negative (i.e. potentially protective) association between tree canopy and dementia detected by hospital and death records (≥30% vs <10% tree canopy hazard ratio 0.84, 95%CI 0.72, 0.99). CONCLUSIONS Increasing urban tree canopy cover may help to reduce the risk of dementia. Replication in contrasting contexts and mediation studies to assess pathways are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Astell-Burt
- Population Wellbeing and Environment Research Lab (PowerLab), School of Health and Society, Faculty of Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia; Menzies Centre for Health Policy, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; National Institute of Environmental Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China; School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Peking Union Medical College and The Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Michael A Navakatikyan
- Population Wellbeing and Environment Research Lab (PowerLab), School of Health and Society, Faculty of Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Xiaoqi Feng
- Population Wellbeing and Environment Research Lab (PowerLab), School of Health and Society, Faculty of Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia; School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia; Menzies Centre for Health Policy, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; National Institute of Environmental Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
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Ugolini F, Massetti L, Calaza-Martínez P, Cariñanos P, Dobbs C, Ostoic SK, Marin AM, Pearlmutter D, Saaroni H, Šaulienė I, Simoneti M, Verlič A, Vuletić D, Sanesi G. Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the use and perceptions of urban green space: An international exploratory study. URBAN FORESTRY & URBAN GREENING 2020; 56:126888. [PMID: 33100944 PMCID: PMC7566824 DOI: 10.1016/j.ufug.2020.126888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Urban green space (UGS) is an essential element in the urban environment, providing multiple ecosystem services as well as beneficial effects on physical and mental health. In a time of societal crisis these effects may be amplified, but ensuring that they are maintained requires effective planning and management - which is a complex challenge given the rapid changes in modern society and the need for continual adaptation. This study aims to identify the drivers that normally attract visitors to UGS, and to assess the effects of social isolation on the usage and perception of UGS during the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted an online survey during the period in which restrictive measures were imposed in response to the pandemic (March-May 2020), in Croatia, Israel, Italy, Lithuania, Slovenia and Spain. Results showed that urban residents normally have a need for accessible UGS, mainly for physical exercise, relaxing and observing nature. The reduction in UGS visitation during the containment period was related to distinct changes in the motivations of those who did visit, with a relative increase in "necessary activities" such as taking the dog out, and a reduction in activities that could be considered non-essential or high-risk such as meeting people or observing nature. Behavioral changes related to proximity were also observed, with an increase in people walking to small urban gardens nearby (e.g. in Italy) or tree-lined streets (e.g. in Spain, Israel), and people traveling by car to green areas outside the city (e.g. in Lithuania). What the respondents missed the most about UGS during the pandemic was "spending time outdoors" and "meeting other people" - highlighting that during the COVID-19 isolation, UGS was important for providing places of solace and respite, and for allowing exercise and relaxation. Respondents expressed the need for urban greenery even when legally mandated access was limited - and many proposed concrete suggestions for improved urban planning that integrates green spaces of different sizes within the fabric of cities and neighborhoods, so that all residents have access to UGS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Ugolini
- Institute of BioEconomy, National Research Council, via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Luciano Massetti
- Institute of BioEconomy, National Research Council, via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Pedro Calaza-Martínez
- Spanish Association of Public Parks and Gardens, Calle Campo de La Estrada N2 Portal C 3 D, 15001, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Paloma Cariñanos
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy. Andalusian Institute for Earth System Research, IISTA-CEAMA, University of Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Cynnamon Dobbs
- Center for Modelling and Monitoring Ecosystems, School of Forest Engineering, Universidad Mayor, Jose Toribio Medina 29, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Ana Marija Marin
- Croatian Forest Research Institute, Cvjetno naselje 41, 10450, Jastrebarsko, Croatia
| | - David Pearlmutter
- Department of Geography and Environmental Development, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Sede Boqer Campus, 84990, Israel
- Institute of BioEconomy, National Research Council, via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Hadas Saaroni
- Geography and the Human Environment Department, The Porter School of the Environment and Earth Sciences, The Raymond and Beverly Sackler Faculty of Exact Sciences, Tel Aviv University, POB 39040, Ramat Aviv, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ingrida Šaulienė
- Siauliai University, P. Višinskio street 25-115, 76351, Šiauliai, Lithuania
| | - Maja Simoneti
- IPoP - Institute for Spatial Policies, Tržaška 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Andrej Verlič
- JP VOKA SNAGA d.o.o., Nature Conservation Unit Landscape Park Tivoli, Rožnik and Šiška hill. Vodovodna cesta 90, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Dijana Vuletić
- Croatian Forest Research Institute, Cvjetno naselje 41, 10450, Jastrebarsko, Croatia
| | - Giovanni Sanesi
- Department of Agro-Environmental Sciences, University of Bari, Via Amendola, 165/A, 70126, Bari, Italy
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Touloumakos AK, Barrable A. Adverse Childhood Experiences: The Protective and Therapeutic Potential of Nature. Front Psychol 2020; 11:597935. [PMID: 33324297 PMCID: PMC7726132 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.597935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are prevalent in many western populations. Large studies have put the likelihood of having at least one ACE above 50% of the general population. ACEs and the associated experience of chronic stress, moreover, have been consistently linked with a variety of negative physical and psychological health outcomes across the lifespan from behavioral problems and cognitive difficulties early on, to greater chance of suffering from a mental health disorder and engaging in self destructing behaviors. The literature puts forward several protective factors, such as mother-child relations, parental health, and community engagement. In this perspective paper we put forward the potential of regular nature engagement as a possible additional protective factor. Nature's therapeutic potential has been well documented, for many psychopathologies and mental health difficulties. Yet studies looking at the protective and therapeutic potential of nature with people with ACEs are remarkably limited in numbers. In this perspective piece we conduct a search of the literature to find previous applications of nature as a protective or therapeutic intervention for people with ACEs. We highlight the gap in the current literature, and put forward various mechanisms of action that justify a closer exploration of this area in further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K. Touloumakos
- Department of Psychology, Panteion University, Athens, Greece
- Centre on Skills, Knowledge and Organisational Performance, Department of Education, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Education Sciences, Hellenic Open University, Patras, Greece
| | - Alexia Barrable
- School of Education and Social Work, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
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A feasibility study on the association between residential greenness and neurocognitive function in middle-aged Bulgarians. Arh Hig Rada Toksikol 2020; 70:173-185. [PMID: 32597127 DOI: 10.2478/aiht-2019-70-3326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent research has indicated that exposure to residential vegetation ("greenness") may be protective against cognitive decline and may support the integrity of the corresponding brain structures. However, not much is known about these effects, especially in less affluent countries and in middle-aged populations. In this study, we investigated the associations between greenness and neurocognitive function. We used a convenience sample of 112 middle-aged Bulgarians and two cognitive tests: the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease Neuropsychological Battery (CERAD-NB) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). In addition, structural brain imaging data were available for 25 participants. Participants' home address was used to link cognition scores to the normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI), a measure of overall neighbourhood vegetation level (radii from 100 to 1,000 m). Results indicated that higher NDVI was consistently associated with higher CERAD-NB and MoCA scores across radial buffers and adjustment scenarios. Lower waist circumference mediated the effect of NDVI on CERAD-NB. NDVI100-m was positively associated with average cortical thickness across both hemispheres, but these correlations turned marginally significant (P<0.1) after correction for false discovery rate due to multiple comparisons. In conclusion, living in a greener neighbourhood might be associated with better cognitive function in middle-aged Bulgarians, with lower central adiposity partially accounting for this effect. Tentative evidence suggests that greenness might also contribute to structural integrity in the brain regions regulating cognitive functions. Future research should build upon our findings and investigate larger and more representative population groups.
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Astell-Burt T, Feng X. Greener neighbourhoods, better memory? A longitudinal study. Health Place 2020; 65:102393. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2020.102393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Bielinis E, Simkin J, Puttonen P, Tyrväinen L. Effect of Viewing Video Representation of the Urban Environment and Forest Environment on Mood and Level of Procrastination. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17145109. [PMID: 32679839 PMCID: PMC7400642 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17145109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A common problem among students is the problem of delaying important work activities, which is conceptualized as procrastination. Since procrastination can cause considerable costs for society, we would like to find a method to effectively alleviate the symptoms of this conditioning. It has been proven in an earlier study that staying in the forest environment increases vitality and reduces anxiety, and the negative state of these features can be associated with the intensification of procrastination symptoms. Therefore, it is likely that watching a forest video may decrease the probability or intensity of procrastination. To measure the impact of the forest environment on the level of procrastination of the subjects, a randomized experiment was carried out, in which the subjects watched in random order (on different days) one of two 15-min videos: one showing a walk in the forest area and one showing a walk in an urban environment (control). We measured the level of so-called 'fluid procrastination' including three aspects: 'lack of energy to do the work', 'inability to get to work' and 'pessimistic attitude to do the work' with a set of questions the respondents completed before and after the experiment. The results showed that one aspect of fluid procrastination ('pessimistic attitude to do the work') can be effectively lowered by watching a video showing the forest environment. In contrast, watching a video of an urban environment increased the procrastination levels for two other aspects of procrastination ('lack of energy to do the work', 'inability to get to work'). We also measured three other parameters before and after the experiment: mood state, restoration and vitality. Watching the video from forest area raised mood and restoration and watching the video from urban area, decreased mood, vitality and restoration. The study suggests that watching a video showing forest landscapes could be used as an effective remedy for problems related to procrastination among students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernest Bielinis
- Department of Forestry and Forest Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Management and Agriculture, University of Warmia and Mazury, Pl. Łódzki 2, 10-727 Olsztyn, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-603-809-211
| | - Jenni Simkin
- Natural Resources Institute Finland, Latokartanonkaari 9, 00790 Helsinki, Finland; (J.S.); (L.T.)
| | - Pasi Puttonen
- Department of Forest Sciences, University of Helsinki, Latokartanonkaari 7, 00014 Helsinki, Finland;
| | - Liisa Tyrväinen
- Natural Resources Institute Finland, Latokartanonkaari 9, 00790 Helsinki, Finland; (J.S.); (L.T.)
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Dzhambov AM, Browning MHEM, Markevych I, Hartig T, Lercher P. Analytical approaches to testing pathways linking greenspace to health: A scoping review of the empirical literature. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 186:109613. [PMID: 32668553 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inadequate translation from theoretical to statistical models of the greenspace - health relationship may lead to incorrect conclusions about the importance of some pathways, which in turn may reduce the effectiveness of public health interventions involving urban greening. In this scoping review we aimed to: (1) summarize the general characteristics of approaches to intervening variable inference (mediation analysis) employed in epidemiological research in the field; (2) identify potential threats to the validity of findings; and (3) propose recommendations for planning, conducting, and reporting mediation analyses. METHODS We conducted a scoping review, searching PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for peer-reviewed epidemiological studies published by December 31, 2019. The list of potential studies was continuously updated through other sources until March 2020. Narrative presentation of the results was coupled with descriptive summary of study characteristics. RESULTS We found 106 studies, most of which were cross-sectional in design. Most studies only had a spatial measure of greenspace. Mental health/well-being was the most commonly studied outcome, and physical activity and air pollution were the most commonly tested intervening variables. Most studies only conducted single mediation analysis, even when multiple potentially intertwined mediators were measured. The analytical approaches used were causal steps, difference-of-coefficients, product-of-coefficients, counterfactual framework, and structural equation modelling (SEM). Bootstrapping was the most commonly used method to construct the 95% CI of the indirect effect. The product-of-coefficients method and SEM as used to investigate serial mediation components were more likely to yield findings of indirect effect. In some cases, the causal steps approach thwarted tests of indirect effect, even though both links in an indirect effect were supported. In most studies, sensitivity analyses and proper methodological discussion of the modelling approach were missing. CONCLUSIONS We found a persistent pattern of suboptimal conduct and reporting of mediation analysis in epidemiological studies investigating pathways linking greenspace to health; however, recent years have seen improvements in these respects. Better planning, conduct, and reporting of mediation analyses are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel M Dzhambov
- Department of Hygiene and Ecomedicine, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
| | - Matthew H E M Browning
- Department of Park, Recreation, and Tourism Management, Clemson University, Clemson, USA
| | - Iana Markevych
- Institute of Psychology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Terry Hartig
- Institute for Housing and Urban Research, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Peter Lercher
- Institute for Highway Engineering and Transport Planning, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
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