Latest news with #UniversityCollegeLondon
Yahoo
8 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
The Secret To Sticking With Exercise May Be As Simple As Asking Yourself These 5 Questions
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." A new study suggests that the secret to exercise motivation may lie in your personality type. The findings could help tailor exercise programs to your personality, increasing the odds you'll work out... and enjoy it. Here's what top experts want you to know. For some people, the idea of getting after it at the gym is the absolute last thing they want to be doing. And as it turns out, that might actually be something you can change. That's the major takeaway from a new Frontiers in Psychology study, which found that the secret to workout motivation could be as simple as matching your go-to exercise with your personality type. Of course, the findings are a little more detailed than that, but they raise some good questions about how to find inspiration to keep on keepin' on at the gym. Let's dig in with help from experts. Meet the experts: Dani Singer, CPT, founder of Fit2Go Personal Training; Thea Gallagher, PsyD, clinical associate professor at NYU Langone Health and cohost of the Mind in View podcast; Flaminia Ronca, PhD, study co-author and associate professor at University College London For this study, researchers recruited 132 people for lab testing to determine their baseline fitness levels. From there, the participants were split into two groups. One group did an eight-week home fitness plan of cycling and strength training, while the other group were asked to continue with their usual lifestyle and workout plan. Participants were asked to fill out a questionnaire on how much they enjoyed their training at the start of the eight weeks, the one week mark, and at the end. The researchers simultaneously looked for the following personality traits in the participants: Extraversion (having a tendency to be outgoing and energetic) Conscientiousness (being organized and disciplined) Agreeableness (being kind, empathetic, and focused on harmony) Neuroticism (being more easily upset and prone to anxiety) Openness (having a willingness to embrace new ideas and perspectives) The researchers discovered that people's personality types actually dictated how likely they were to enjoy a particular type of exercise. Why does that matter? Well, the findings can help people tailor their exercise programs to their personality to try to increase the odds they'll enjoy their workouts, the researchers wrote in the conclusion. Based on the study's findings, extraverts are more likely to enjoy high-intensity activities like intense endurance sessions, or a HIIT session, says Flaminia Ronca, PhD, study co-author and associate professor at University College London. And while this particular study didn't focus on introverts, Ronca says these folks may overlap a little with those who score high on neuroticism. 'People who score high on neuroticism might appreciate being given privacy and independence for their workouts, and this group really benefits from the stress-reducing effects of exercise,' she says. Ronca also notes that personality traits can interact with each other. 'A person who is very neurotic might be less likely to exercise due to fear of being judged, but a person who is both neurotic and conscientious might be more likely to exercise because they know about the health benefit of exercise,' she says. 'So, they might actually become more anxious if they miss their workout.' Asking yourself how you fall on these five traits might be the magic key to finding a workout that actually works for you (and your brain). There are a few reasons why personality plays such a crucial role in workout drive. 'We all have different characteristics that determine our behavior, as well as our preferences,' says Ronca. So, if you can understand your own personality, it may help you to make more informed decisions about the best activities for you, she explains. Tapping into your personality also just allows you to have a better sense of what may be good for you, says Thea Gallagher, PsyD, clinical associate professor at NYU Langone Health and cohost of the Mind in View podcast. 'Just doing things because we know it's good for us doesn't tend to work out well,' she says. 'The best motivator is one where you're reinforced by joy or it's something you really enjoy doing.' This is crucial for sticking with workouts, says Dani Singer, CPT, founder of Fit2Go Personal Training. 'Trainers who consistently achieve the best results with their clients don't overlook the 'personal' aspect of personal training,' he says. 'They often train multiple clients with the same fitness goal, using different 'trait-friendly' modalities.' Gallagher stresses that personalities tend to exist on a spectrum, so you may find that you have some introvert and extravert qualities. But there are certain signs that you may be more prone to one category over the other. 'Extraverts tend to seek stimulation,' Ronca says. 'If you like bright colors, loud music, being around a group of friends, and you enjoy being part of a crowd and performing in front of others, it's quite possible you might be an extravert.' On the other hand, introverts don't really require stimulation, according to Ronca. 'They are more sensitive to stimuli, so they prefer quiet spaces, and maybe a relaxed meal with one or two close friends,' she says. There's also a category called an 'ambivert,' which is when you're a little of both personality traits. 'Some people might thrive in social environments but then need some quiet time to recover and be on their own,' Ronca says. Again, personality types tend to exist on a spectrum, and it can be hard to put yourself in a box. But Gallagher says the findings are a good reminder that not all workouts are for everyone. 'Give it the old college try, but if you find that you don't like a certain style of working out, try to think of something else,' she says. 'Eventually, you'll find something that works for you.' You Might Also Like Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals
NZ Herald
a day ago
- Health
- NZ Herald
Type 2 diabetes and erectile dysfunction: How one couple revived their intimacy
'It's one of the most common complications of the disease – yet it's also one of the least discussed,' says consultant urologist professor David Ralph, of University College London. 'Many men feel embarrassed when I meet them, the term 'erectile dysfunction' rarely leave their lips. Instead they come in saying things like, 'it's not like it used to be, doctor' or 'it's not working properly down there'. There's often a feeling that they've somehow let themselves or their partner down,' says Ralph. 'It's my job to explain that ED is extremely common – particularly with age and underlying health conditions like diabetes – and that it's a medical issue, not a personal failing.' Why this occurs, says Ralph, is because prolonged high blood sugar can damage the small blood vessels and nerves which are essential for an erection. 'This reduces blood flow and sensation in the penis. Men with diabetes are also more likely to have low testosterone, which further lowers sexual desire,' he adds. Ralph also points out that psychological factors such as anxiety or low mood can worsen the problem. While other diabetes-related health problems, such as heart or kidney disease, may also play a role in reducing sexual desire and contributing to erection problems. A midlife diagnosis that changed the marriage Sara and Arion first met in 2008, moved in together within two months and welcomed their first child a year later. But their whirlwind romance stood the test of time, as they married and went on to have five sons together, now aged 16, 14, 12, nine and three. 'After so many years together we both know sex isn't the be-all and end-all, but it's certainly the important glue, and I'd say we connected this way three to four times a week' says Sara, who helps run Arion's restaurant. 'Having friends who haven't had passion that actually lasts, we always felt very fortunate in that area.' A routine check-up a few years ago showed Arion was pre-diabetic. 'Diabetes is more prevalent in the South East Asian community, and in my line of work I'm constantly surrounded by delicious chapatis, naan, and we cook with ghee – admittedly not ideal for insulin levels,' he says. According to Ralph, pre-diabetes is a 'warning sign' and prompt action – modifying lifestyle factors such as weight loss – can minimise the risks by getting the sugars controlled. Determined to reverse the condition naturally, Arion improved his diet, installed a treadmill in the front room, and played football with his sons. But despite these efforts, by 43, he'd tipped into full Type 2 diabetes. This too, alas, is common says professor Ralph. 'Many patients progress to full blown diabetes, and all of the cardiovascular complications including ED.' That's when things started to change in the bedroom. 'For someone who is naturally full of beans, Arion became more lethargic,' describes Sara. 'His erections were weaker, and intercourse became a struggle.' The psychological impact of ED on a relationship Sara admits she worried Arion had stopped finding her attractive. 'After five babies my body had changed, however many kegel exercises I did. There were tense evenings, and the longer it carried on, the more Arion lost his confidence. His enthusiasm for sex waned, I'm sure he feared it would result in failure.' She knew they needed to talk about it – but not during sex. 'I didn't want to bring it up while in bed, with all that pressure. So instead, the two of us we went out for a walk and I said, 'I love you, come on, let's talk about this.' Arion seemed relieved I'd raised it. 'Of course I still fancy you,' he reassured me. And I cried, 'Of course I don't think you're letting me down.' That initial conversation was an important first step. Together, they focused on non-penetrative ways to stay intimate. 'We tried massages, different positions, using sex toys, and yes – forgive me if this is frank – we practised more oral sex,' admits Sara says. 'It was worth us both improving our technique, and just lightening up a little if things didn't work out.' What are the treatment options and technical advances for ED? When Arion decided he wasn't ready to stop having sex in the way they were used to, he went to the GP, who suggested Viagra. PDE5 inhibitor oral medications – like sildenafil (Viagra) or tadalafil (Cialis) – remain the first-line treatment according to Ralph. These work by temporarily improving blood flow. 'However, they don't address another key issue that many men with ED face – the problem of blood leaking back out too quickly, which can make it hard to maintain an erection. Studies indicate that around half of men stop taking them within a year. Patients often report side effects like headaches or flushing and do not like having to plan sex around a pill.' Treatments for ED have advanced considerably, says Professor Ralph, with far more available today than 10 years ago. Second-line options include NHS-provided mechanical vacuum devices, which help draw blood back into the penis. 'While these are effective and non-invasive, many men find them inconvenient or uncomfortable long-term,' admits Professor Ralph. Penile injections are another alternative. 'Alprostadil injections (which relax the blood vessels in the penis) are used when oral treatments fail and are effective in the majority of cases, but drawbacks include pain, priapism risk (an unwanted erection lasting hours), and the need for self-injection,' says Professor Ralph. Penile implants are available too, but this surgical option tends to be reserved for more complex or persistent cases. They're irreversible but associated with high satisfaction rates. 'More recently, there's been growing interest in treatments that aim to restore function more naturally – especially among men (such as Arion) who want longer-term solutions or don't like the idea of planning sex around a pill.' One example is low-intensity shockwave therapy which is a private treatment that uses sound waves to stimulate blood flow and encourage new blood vessel growth. 'It can benefit some, particularly those with mild ED, but the clinical results are mixed, and it requires multiple clinic visits, and can cost up to £3000 ($6,800),' explains Professor Ralph. 'Another option is Vertica, a handheld, at-home device, using radiofrequency energy to improve blood flow and reduce venous leak, a common cause of ED,' he adds. A peer-reviewed study in the International Journal of Impotence Research reported that 85% of users experienced improvement at four weeks, and 93% had erections sufficient for penetration by 12 weeks. It's approved by the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) though is not available on the NHS and costs approximately £1250-£1500 ($2,800 - $3,400) , depending on the model. Interestingly, says Ralph, the device worked just as well in men with diabetes 'who are typically harder to treat'. 'Around 40% of men in the trial had Type 2 diabetes – given how often ED and diabetes go hand in hand that's encouraging.' Finding a way forward their sex life – what finally worked For Arion personally, 'who doesn't even like taking paracetamol' it was the drug-free solution, Vertica, that worked. 'After about a month of using the device three to four times a week consistently we noticed a difference,' says Arion. 'My morning erections returned, full sex was mostly possible, and crucially my confidence improved,' says Arion. 'It felt like turning back time in a way we didn't think possible.' Today, the couple feel closer than ever. 'It's just like normal again, before his diabetes diagnosis,' Sara says. 'We laugh more, talk more, touch more. We came through this hurdle together, and who knows, we're not ruling out baby number six in the future...' The diabetes red flags to watch out for The symptoms for both Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 can be similar, but Type 1 diabetes usually develops more quickly and is more common in younger people. The most common symptoms of Type 2 diabetes are: Feeling very tired Peeing more than usual Feeling thirsty all the time Losing weight without trying to Other symptoms can include: Blurred vision Cuts or wounds taking longer to heal Itching around your penis or vagina, or you keep getting thrush Erectile dysfunction These symptoms are the same for both adults and children. If you get symptoms (not everyone gets them), they may develop gradually and if concerned speak to your GP. How to recognise ED Early signs include reduced firmness, especially during morning erections, and difficulty maintaining an erection during intercourse.
Medscape
2 days ago
- Health
- Medscape
PICU Mortality Higher for Deprived, Minority Children
Children from deprived and ethnic minority backgrounds are more likely to die following admission to paediatric intensive care units (PICU), according to a UK study. The research analysed 245,099 admissions to PICUs between 2008 and 2021, covering 163,163 children across the UK. Overall, 63·1% of PICU admissions were unplanned. Among children for whom ethnicity data were available, 61.4% of admissions were children of White ethnicity, 9.2% Asian, 4.4% Black, 2.8% multiple ethnicities, and 2.4% were classed as 'other'. The study was conducted by a team from Imperial College London, University College London, and the universities of Leicester, Leeds, and Bristol. Poverty Increases PICU Mortality Odds The research, published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health , revealed that children living in areas with higher levels of poverty were more likely to be admitted to PICUs, were more severely ill on arrival, and were less likely to survive than children from the least deprived areas. Overall PICU mortality across planned and unplanned admissions was 3.7%. This ranged from 3.1% for children in the least deprived quintile to 4.2% among children in the most deprived. Children living in the most deprived areas had 13% higher odds of death after PICU admission than those living in the least deprived areas. Mortality Highest Among Asian Children Children of ethnic minority backgrounds were more likely than White children to have longer PICU stays (average 66 versus 52 hours) and unplanned readmission to PICU within 60 days of discharge (9% versus 6.8%). Asian children had the highest crude mortality rate at 5.1%, compared with 3.2% for White children. Children of multiple and 'other' ethnicities also had higher odds of dying, with odds ratios of 1.23 and 1.20 respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in mortality between Black and White children (OR 1.04). The researchers noted that although ethnicity was known to contribute to differences in mortality and other health inequalities in children, their study was the first to report worse intensive care outcomes among children from more deprived backgrounds. They concluded that targeted community and hospital-based interventions are needed to improve PICU outcomes. Early Disparities Highlighted Dr Hannah Mitchell Lead researcher Dr Hannah Mitchell, from the Department of Surgery and Cancer at Imperial College London (ICL), said that the disparities mirror those seen in adults, but emerge much earlier, with 44% of children admitted to PICU under 1 year old and 70% under 5 years old. "This suggests that the effects of deprivation and systemic inequality begin very early in life, long before adult risk factors come into play," she told Medscape News UK . Mitchell said that the research team had secured funding to explore why children from more deprived areas, and those of Asian ethnicity, often arrive in PICU more unwell and may continue to deteriorate after admission. A further study would investigate how this might be prevented, she said. Professor Padmanabhan Ramnarayan Senior author Professor Padmanabhan Ramnarayan, also from ICL, described the findings as "worrying". He warned that PICU use is likely to rise as more children develop complex chronic conditions. Dr Helen Stewart, officer for health improvement at the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, said that the study revealed the "deeply alarming" depth of child poverty in the UK. "As a paediatrician, I am increasingly disturbed by the rising number of children presenting with poverty-related illnesses," she told Medscape News UK . Stewart added that 'poverty is a key determinant of health, shaping children's wellbeing and elevating mortality risk in areas of greatest deprivation'. Experts Call for Urgent Action The study followed recent findings from the National Child Mortality Database (NCMD), which reported that over half (54%) of the 9517 deaths in children aged 0 to 17 in England occurring between 1 April 2019 and 31 March 2022 involved children with life-limiting conditions. Karen Luyt, a professor in neonatal medicine at the University of Bristol, and NCMD programme lead, told Medscape News UK: "A plausible hypothesis would be that underlying life limiting conditions might explain the higher mortality rate of Asian children on UK PICUs." The research was commissioned by the Healthcare Quality Improvement Partnership (HQIP) through its national paediatric intensive care audit network (PICANet).
Arab News
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Arab News
What We Are Reading Today: ‘What Matters in Jane Austen?'
Author: John Mullan To mark 250 years since the birth of one of the most famous women authors in English literature, John Mullan's 'What Matters in Jane Austen? Twenty Crucial Puzzles Solved' has been reissued. First published in 2012, the book is a kind of literary scavenger hunt, with Mullan as guide — witty, knowing and visibly delighted by the patterns and puzzles he uncovers. We go on the journey with him, uncovering the meanings embedded in the seemingly minor, but not minute, details of Austen's fiction. The Lord Northcliffe professor of modern English literature at University College London, Mullan is a leading authority on Austen. He has edited 'Sense and Sensibility' and 'Emma' for Oxford World's Classics and has published widely on 18th- and 19th-century literature. In this work he poses 20 questions such as: 'Why is the weather important?' 'How much money is enough?' 'Why is Darcy so rude?' and 'What do the characters call each other?' That last question forms one of the book's most interesting chapters for me. It's about the seemingly stealthy and subtle ways in which the characters address others by a name and the power of not saying their name at all. In Austen's world, names are never casual. A shift from a formal title to a first name can signal a change in status, desire or familiarity. A name can be a quiet form of rebellion or a coded expression of closeness or longing. It matters whether someone is 'Miss Bennet' or 'Elizabeth,' whether a man dares to use her given name directly and whether that liberty is permitted or returned. Again and again, Mullan shows us how much Austen could signal with the smallest of choices. What seems like a passing detail is likely loaded with meaning. This new edition, with a fresh preface, is a fitting tribute to Austen's longevity. Rather than framing her novels as relics to admire, Mullan treats them as living texts full of sly codes and sharp decisions. It offers fans of Austen's work something they crave: evidence. A deep dive into the text itself. By the end, the title becomes clear, not just because Mullan asked the right questions but because, through his close reading and sharp observations, we begin to get answers. To Austen, who died in 1817, everything mattered: names, clothes, weather, silence. And more than two centuries later, her world — precise, constrained, emotionally charged — still has plenty to show and tell.
West Australian
2 days ago
- Health
- West Australian
Editorial: Bullying leads to a lifetime of misery
Being a kid is tough. For kids who find themselves the target of bullying, going to school can turn into a daily ordeal. This is a widespread experience, with about one in four Australian students in Years 4 to 9 being consistently bullied by their peers, statistics from the Kids Institute show. And according to a British study published last year, the impacts can cast a shadow over victims' lives for decades to come. Being bullied as a child is linked to poorer health, wellbeing and employment outcomes as an adult. Researchers from the University of Glasgow and University College London found bullying victims were more likely to die before their mid-50s. Being bullied can set victims up for a lifetime of misery. That study was based off the life outcomes of victims of bullying who are today in their 60s. And as traumatic as their experiences were, at least they had some respite available to them outside of school hours. Children in the playground today have no such relief. Their bullies can reach them at any hour of the day through social media. Just how much worse will the impact of bullying be for them later in life? Knowing what we do about the short and long term effects of bullying, schools and parents have a moral imperative to do what they can to stamp it out. Yet even among educators, old school attitudes to bullying prevail. A submission to the Federal Government's anti-bullying review by the WA Council of State School Organisations claims that too often, kids who are the victims of bullying are encouraged to make nice with their tormenters. It's a misguided approach, rooted in victim blaming that serves only to risk re-traumatising targets of bullying while downplaying the seriousness of the bullies' actions. University of South Australia senior lecturer and bullying researcher Deborah Green said bullying was a different kettle of fish to isolated conflicts between peers. 'We're talking about the abuse and misuse of power,' she said. 'So when you've got that dynamic going on, bringing the two people together is not helpful. They have to co-exist, usually in a classroom, but they don't need to be friends.' The WACSSO's submission calls for specially-trained teams tasked with responding to bullying to be stationed in every school while the organisation's president Pania Turner wants a national standard definitions framework to take the guesswork out of responding to reports of bullying for educators. It's a proposal that makes sense. Responses to incidents of bullying should be consistent across schools to give kids the best chance to thrive in the classroom and in the decades to come, regardless of where they went to school. Bullying isn't 'character-building' and it's not something we should expect victims to 'get over'. Those outdated and unhelpful attitudes have no place in our education system.
