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Objective:To identify and characterize two Balneatrix alpica strains isolated from a patient′s blood sample (strain X117) and the natural hot spring water in the patient′s residential district (strain GN-1), and to provide experimental evidence for the pathogenic diagnosis of clinical infection caused by this rare pathogen. Methods:Biochemical phenotypic identification, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), 16S rRNA gene sequencing, phylogenetic analysis, single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis, and genome-wide analysis were performed to accurately determine the taxonomic status of the isolates X117 and GN-1 by using Balneatrix alpica DSM 16621 T as a reference. Microdilution broth method was used to test their antimicrobial susceptibility. The virulence genes carried by them were annotated and analyzed using the virulence factor database (VFDB). Results:Strains X117 and GN-1 formed light yellow or tan colonies with mottled surfaces on Columbia blood agar and chocolate agar plates after 4 d of culture. They were Gram-negative rods and positive for oxidase and indole tests, which were consistent with the characteristics of Balneatrix alpica DSM 16621 T. The phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene showed that the isolates X117 and GN-1 were both Balneatrix alpaca. The average nucleotide identity (ANI) values between the two isolates and Balneatrix alpica DSM 16621 T were 98.44% and 98.41%, respectively, and the digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) values were both 87.1%. The SNP distance between the two strains was 13, indicating that X117 and GN-1 might belong to the same clone. The antibiotic susceptibility testing showed that all of the three Balneatrix alpica strains were sensitive to the commonly used antibiotics against Gram-negative rods. The virulence genes carried by the three Balneatrix alpica strains were mainly involved in adhesion, invasion, flagella and biofilm formation. Conclusions:This study identified a case of bloodstream infection caused by Balneatrix alpica which was closely related to natural hot spring water. Natural hot spring water migh be an important source of clinical infections caused by this species.
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The primary objective of this study was to collect evidence that individuals who use hot spring facilities and public baths have a low risk of being infected with COVID-19. The secondary objective was to comprehensively summarize the research issues that remain to be explored in the field of balneology considering results of previous research. Literature databases used were CINHAL, Cochrane Library (Clinical Answer, Cochrane Protocol, Cochrane Review, Editorials, Special Collections, Trials), Ichushi Web (in Japanese), MEDLINE, and Web of Science Core Collection. For each database, we selected results from the time it was opened through July 26, 2021. When intervention studies and experimental were searched, the following modified PICOS was used the following: P (Participant: no restrictions on the presence or absence of illness), I (Intervention: normal breathing or intentional sneezing, coughing, conversation), C (Comparison: no restrictions), O (Outcome: markers that simulate the flow of indoor air, the dynamics of droplets, and droplets in bathrooms and dressing rooms), and S (Study design: including intervention studies and experiments without a control group). For observational studies, PECOS included: P (participants: unlimited with or without disease), E (Exposure: public bathing facility), C (comparison: unrestricted), and S (study design: cross-sectional study, cohort study, and case-control study). For the primary objective, no studies met the eligibility criteria, and at the time of this study there was no evidence that the use of hot spring facilities or public baths presented a low risk of being infected with COVID-19. Regarding the secondary objective, there were 15 relevant studies. In the context of a society that is strongly influenced by COVID-19, our literature review identified four research issues: “A. Use of hot spring facilities and public baths has a low risk of COVID-19 infection”, “B. The quality of hot springs and the room temperature and water temperature of public baths make SARS-CoV-2 inactivate/attenuate”, “C. Hot spring facilities, public baths, bathing habits at home lead to prevention of COVID-19 and alleviation of symptoms”, “D. Bathing for survivors of COVID-19 is effective for various rehabilitation of patients”. Suitable research approaches for each issue would be required in order to grasp each evidence.
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This center was established at its downtown in 2011. In order to either maintain or promote health-welfare status at the elderly life stage, the center has been providing regular physical exercise courses using hot spring water pumped up there. These activities have been performed cooperating with all 32 community general support centers covered whole the city. Main findings and indication from our activities in these10 years were as follows: 1．Total number of attendants increased from around 60 to 90 thousands a year. About one fourth of them were the QOL (Quality of Life) tour member aged 65 years or more attending twice a week in every 3-month by the courtesy bus, and the others aged 40 years or more attended with their own ways. The attendants aged 75 years or more has gradually increased to 70〜80% of QOL tour member. For the other member, it has been in 20〜30% these 10 years. In addition to the physical exercise in 33〜36°C hot spring water consisted of walking, stretch & flex, aquatic exercise for joint-musculoskeletal pain and others, power-up rehabilitation, exercise for joint-musculoskeletal pain and others were performed on floor, too. The grade of these exercise consisted of 30, 40 and 50% of maximum heart rates depending on physical examination results of 5 m-walk, timed up & go test (TUG), the 30 seconds chair-stand test (CS30), hand grip, functional reach and posture forward bending, and doctors’ inspection. 2．On the follow-up of the physical examinations measured every 3-month, 5 m-walk, hand grip and CS30 were shown to be suitable items due to the availability as the routine examination. The results are substantially useful for reviewing each attendant status in longitudinal course, and indicate our treatments for them. 3．The attendants increased and distributed over the whole city in these 10 years. However, as the proportion of new ones is several percentages each year, the exchange of attendants was less than we expected. This indicates that we should have closer communication with community general support centers in order to distribute our activities to people who need health-welfare promotion, but have never been in the center. On top of that, the usage of our center should be increased for people of middle ages for ideal prevention.
ABSTRACT
The primary objective of this study was to collect evidence that individuals who use hot spring facilities and public baths have a low risk of being infected with COVID-19. The secondary objective was to comprehensively summarize the research issues that remain to be explored in the field of balneology considering results of previous research. Literature databases used were CINHAL, Cochrane Library (Clinical Answer, Cochrane Protocol, Cochrane Review, Editorials, Special Collections, Trials), Ichushi Web (in Japanese), MEDLINE, and Web of Science Core Collection. For each database, we selected results from the time it was opened through July 26, 2021. When intervention studies and experimental were searched, the following modified PICOS was used the following: P (Participant: no restrictions on the presence or absence of illness), I (Intervention: normal breathing or intentional sneezing, coughing, conversation), C (Comparison: no restrictions), O (Outcome: markers that simulate the flow of indoor air, the dynamics of droplets, and droplets in bathrooms and dressing rooms), and S (Study design: including intervention studies and experiments without a control group). For observational studies, PECOS included: P (participants: unlimited with or without disease), E (Exposure: public bathing facility), C (comparison: unrestricted), and S (study design: cross-sectional study, cohort study, and case-control study). For the primary objective, no studies met the eligibility criteria, and at the time of this study there was no evidence that the use of hot spring facilities or public baths presented a low risk of being infected with COVID-19. Regarding the secondary objective, there were 15 relevant studies. In the context of a society that is strongly influenced by COVID-19, our literature review identified four research issues: “A. Use of hot spring facilities and public baths has a low risk of COVID-19 infection”, “B. The quality of hot springs and the room temperature and water temperature of public baths make SARS-CoV-2 inactivate/attenuate”, “C. Hot spring facilities, public baths, bathing habits at home lead to prevention of COVID-19 and alleviation of symptoms”, “D. Bathing for survivors of COVID-19 is effective for various rehabilitation of patients”. Suitable research approaches for each issue would be required in order to grasp each evidence.
ABSTRACT
This center was established at its downtown in 2011. In order to either maintain or promote health-welfare status at the elderly life stage, the center has been providing regular physical exercise courses using hot spring water pumped up there. These activities have been performed cooperating with all 32 community general support centers covered whole the city. Main findings and indication from our activities in these10 years were as follows: 1．Total number of attendants increased from around 60 to 90 thousands a year. About one fourth of them were the QOL (Quality of Life) tour member aged 65 years or more attending twice a week in every 3-month by the courtesy bus, and the others aged 40 years or more attended with their own ways. The attendants aged 75 years or more has gradually increased to 70〜80% of QOL tour member. For the other member, it has been in 20〜30% these 10 years. In addition to the physical exercise in 33〜36°C hot spring water consisted of walking, stretch & flex, aquatic exercise for joint-musculoskeletal pain and others, power-up rehabilitation, exercise for joint-musculoskeletal pain and others were performed on floor, too. The grade of these exercise consisted of 30, 40 and 50% of maximum heart rates depending on physical examination results of 5 m-walk, timed up & go test (TUG), the 30 seconds chair-stand test (CS30), hand grip, functional reach and posture forward bending, and doctors’ inspection. 2．On the follow-up of the physical examinations measured every 3-month, 5 m-walk, hand grip and CS30 were shown to be suitable items due to the availability as the routine examination. The results are substantially useful for reviewing each attendant status in longitudinal course, and indicate our treatments for them. 3．The attendants increased and distributed over the whole city in these 10 years. However, as the proportion of new ones is several percentages each year, the exchange of attendants was less than we expected. This indicates that we should have closer communication with community general support centers in order to distribute our activities to people who need health-welfare promotion, but have never been in the center. On top of that, the usage of our center should be increased for people of middle ages for ideal prevention.
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Hot spring is a kind of precious natural water resource formed under specific geological conditions and obtained by natural gushing or artificial drilling, and is rich in minerals and trace elements peculiar to deep strata. Hot spring bathing is a physical therapy with a long history. An increasing number of studies have shown the positive effects of hot spring bathing in maintaining health and the auxiliary treatment and rehabilitation of chronic diseases. This paper reviews the distribution, classification and application history of hot springs, and further explores the research on the effect of hot springs on the improvement of sub-health status and the adjuvant treatment of chronic diseases such as skin diseases, cardiovascular diseases and joint diseases, so as to provide reference for further understanding of the physiotherapy value of hot spring bathing and boost its role in the development of big health industries.
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Objective To investigate the effect of hot spring baths on human immune function by analyzing the changes of immunoglobulins and complements in serum of residents after hot spring baths in order to provide a theoretical reference for the therapeutic effect of hot spring bathing. Methods After physical examination, 421 volunteers from five hot spring areas with three types of hot springs(temperature type hot springs, metasilicic acid type hot springs, and warm mineral spring type hot springs)in Guizhou Province were selected as the subjects. Under the guidance of professionals, the volunteers took a hot spring bath with the whole body immersed for four weeks, once a day, 5 times a week and 40-50 minutes each time. Finally, 311 volunteers completed the standard bath required by this study. The transmission immunoturbidimetric method was used to determine the content of immunoglobulins reflecting mucosal anti-infective immunity(IgA), anti-pathogenic microorganisms(IgG), recent infections(IgM)and the level of important immune effect factors(C3, C4)in the serum. Paired T test was used to compare the changes of serum immunoglobulin and complement before and after the hot spring bath therapy. Results Before the hot spring baths, the content of serum IgG, IgA, IgM, and complements C3 and C4 was(12.169±2.358)g/L, (2.285±0.891)g/L, (1.430±0.660)g/L, (1.224±0.186)g/L, and(0.257±0.073)g/L, respectively. After the hot spring baths, the content of serum IgG, IgA, IgM, and complements C3 and C4 was(12.769±2.984)g/L, (2.397±0.909)g/L, (1.497±0.715)g/L, (1.242±0.169)g/L, and(0.266±0.074)g/L, respectively.Comparison of results of different types of hot springs showed that warm mineral type of hot springs and metasilicic acid type of hot springs could significantly increase the serum levels of main immunoglobulins IgG and IgA(P < 0.05), while water temperature type of hot springs could increase the serum IgA content of the population(P < 0.05), but the effect on IgG was not significant(P > 0.05). Compared with before the bath intervention, the level of complement C4 in the serum increased in the population after the intervention of metasilicic acid type of hot springs and water temperature type of hot springs(P < 0.05). Conclusion Hot spring bathing can enhance the body's humoral immune function. Given that IgG is the most important anti-pathogenic microorganism antibody in body fluids, the result suggests that metasilicic acid hot spring and warm mineral hot spring are better than pure water temperature hot spring in terms of improving the body's humoral immune function.
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Objective To understand the influence of hot spring bathing intervention on population's antioxidation functions. Methods Three typical types of hot spring(metasilicic acid type, warm mineral type and temperature type)in Guizhou Province were selected for investigation. According to the inclusion-exclusion criteria, questionnaires and physical examinations results, 421 individuals were selected as observation subjects for hot spring bathing intervention, of which 311 subjects completed 40 to 50 minutes of intervention once a day, 5 days a week, and for 4 weeks. Two physical examinations before and after the intervention were conducted for the 311 subjects. The fasting venous blood samples on the mornings of two physical examinations were collected and the serum was separated. Levels of serum oxidative stress-related parameters including total superoxide dismutase(T-SOD), copper zinc superoxide dismutase(Cu-Zn SOD), glutathione sulfur transferases(GSTs)glutathione peroxidase(GSH-px), sulfhydryl(-SH)and malondialdehyde(MDA)were measured by enzymatical methods. Results The overall comparison showed that compared with before the bathing intervention, the levels of antioxidant enzymes including T-SOD, Cu-Zn SOD, GSTs and GSH-px significantly increased in serum after the intervention(all P < 0.05). There was an increasing trend of serum -SH level after the intervention, but with no statistical differences were seen(P > 0.05). MDA, a product of lipid peroxidation, significantly decreased in serum after the intervention(P < 0.05). The results of classified comparison showed that the effects of different hot spring types on antioxidant enzymes were different. Metasilicic acid type significantly increased the activities of GSTs and GSH-px in serum(all P < 0.05), warm mineral type significantly increased the activities of T-SOD and Cu-Zn SOD in serum(all P < 0.05), and temperature type significantly increased the activities of T-SOD, Cu-Zn SOD and GSTs in serum(all P < 0.05). There were increasing trends of serum -SH levels after bathing intervention of all three hot spring types, but no statistical differences were seen(all P > 0.05). The serum MDA levels decreased significantly after bathing intervention of all three types of hot springs(all P < 0.05). Conclusion Overall, bathing intervention of hot springs can improve the activities of antioxidant enzymes and reduce lipid peroxidation products in population. The results of oxidative stress parameters are slightly different in different types of hot springs. The subjects mainly show the elevation of glutathione related enzyme(GSTs and GSH-px)activities after intervention of metasilicic acid type, the elevation of superoxide dismutase(SOD)activities after intervention of warm mineral type and temperature type, and the decline of lipid peroxidation levels after intervention of all three types. It suggests that hot spring bathing may have certain effects on improving the body's antioxidation functions.
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Objective To analyze the changes of major and trace elements in urine before and after hot spring bathing, and to explore the effect of hot spring bathing on element metabolism, so as to provide theoretical reference for the physiotherapeutic efficacy of hot spring bathing. Methods The content of Ca, K, Mg, Na, P, S, Sr, Zn, B, Mn, Ni, V, Se, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mo, As, Cd, Hg, Li, Pb and Al in warm mineral springs, metasilicic springs and mineral springs in Guizhou Province was determined by ICP-MS. On the basis of physical examination, 421 people in hot spring areas of Guizhou Province were selected as the subjects. Under the guidance of professionals, the volunteers took a hot spring bath with the whole body immersed for four weeks, once a day, five times a week, for 40-50 minutes each time. Finally, 311 volunteers completed the standard bath required by this study. The content of major elements(Ca, K, Mg, Na, P, and S), essential trace elements(Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mo, Se, Sr, and Zn), possibly essential trace elements(B, Mn, Ni, and V)and potentially toxic elements(Al, As, Cd, Hg, Li, and Pb)in urine was analyzed by ICP-MS. Wilcoxon test was used to compare the differences of various elements in urine before and after bathing. Results The water of the warm mineral spring pool mainly contained Mo, Sr, Zn, B, Al, and Pb. The metasilicic acid water mainly contained Cu, V, and As. The water of the mineral spring bubble pool mainly contained Ca, K, Mg, S, Cr, Fe, Se, Mn, Ni, and Li. Compared with before intervention, the content of major elements(Ca, K, Mg, S), essential trace elements(Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mo, Se, Zn)and possibly essential trace elements(B, Mn, Ni, V)significantly increased, and the content of potential toxic elements(Al, Li, Pb)significantly decreased after intervention(all P < 0.05). The results showed that the content of P, S, Co, Cr, Mo, Se, Zn, Mn and Ni increased significantly and the content of Hg decreased significantly after metasilicic acid hot spring bathing compared with that before bathing(all P < 0.05). After warm mineral hot spring bathing, the content of Ca, Mg, S and Zn increased significantly, while the content of Al and Pb decreased significantly(all P < 0.05). The content of Mg, S, Co, Cr, Se and Ni increased significantly and the content of Al decreased significantly(all P < 0.05). Conclusion There are many kinds of mineral elements in hot springs in Guizhou Province. After hot spring bathing, the essential trace elements and possible essential trace elements in human body increased, and the potential toxic elements decreased, but there was no gender difference.
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Objective To understand the current status of osteoporosis risk and influencing factors for residents from 30 to 65 years old in typical hot spring areas in Guizhou province, and to provide a theoretical basis for reducing the risk of osteoporosis and the prevention of osteoporosis in the population. Methods A health questionnaire for residents in typical hot spring areas in Guizhou, osteoporosis risk test questions, Pittsburgh sleep quality index(PSQI), etc were used. A face-to-face survey of 3 708 residents was conducted, and logistic regression was used to analyze the influencing factors of osteoporosis risk in hot spring areas. Results 2 403(64.81%)residents of 3 708 people surveyed were at risk of osteoporosis, of whom 1 434(87.4%)males and 969 females(47.1%)had a higher risk of osteoporosis (χ2=652.4, P < 0.001). As age increased, more residents were at risk of osteoporosis(χ2=273.4, P < 0.001), and numbers of residents of 30-39 years old, 40-59 years old, and above 60 years of age at risk of osteoporosis were 319(49.2%), 1 572(62.9%), and 512(93.6%). Male osteoporosis risk was negatively correlated with an education level of undergraduate and above(OR=0.37, 95%CI: 0.19-0.73). Age 40-59(OR=1.54, 95%CI: 1.07-2.22), 60 and above(OR=6.39, 95%CI: 2.76-14.79), and sleep disorders(OR=1.59, 95%CI: 1.08-2.35)may increase the risk of osteoporosis in male residents in hot spring areas. Less oil in daily diet may increase the risk of osteoporosis in women(OR=1.70, 95%CI: 1.23-2.36). Age 40-59(OR=1.54, 95%CI: 1.17-2.03), over 60 and above(OR=16.24, 95%CI: 10.10-26.12), and sleep disorders(OR=1.84, 95%CI: 1.48-2.28)were positively correlated with risk of osteoporosis in women. Women with junior high school degree(OR=0.61, 95%CI: 0.47-0.80), high school degree(OR=0.57, 95%CI: 0.37-0.89)and undergraduate degree and above(OR=0.59, 95%CI: 0.39-0.98)had a lower risk of osteoporosis than women who were illiterate or semi-illiterate. The osteoporosis risk test questions showed that smoking, heavy drinking, and erectile dysfunction and reduced sexual desire were the main sources of osteoporosis risk in men. Menopause before the age of 60, ≤45 years old, no milk and no calcium supplements, parents with osteoporosis or bone fractures were the major risk sources of osteoporosis in women. Conclusion The risk of osteoporosis among male residents from 30 to 65 years old in typical hot spring areas in Guizhou province is higher than that among women. Education of osteoporosis prevention should be strengthened among local residents to promote healthy behaviors and lifestyles.
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Objective To observe the intervention effect of typical hot spring bathing in Guizhou province on joint pain, serum anti-keratin antibody(AKA), anti-perinuclear factor antibody(APF)and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody(CCP). Methods A total of 160 people with joint pain symptoms from five typical hot spring areas in Guizhou province were selected as the subjects. They were treated with hot spring bathing intervention for 4 weeks, once a day, 5 times a week, 40 to 50 minutes each time. According to the evaluation index of physiotherapy natural mineral water in the Code for Geological Exploration and Evaluation of Natural Warm Mineral Water Resources(GB/T 13727-2016)and geological types, the five typical hot springs were divided into three different types, namely water temperature type hot springs(water temperature > 36 ℃), metasilicate type hot springs(metasilicate > 50 mg/L)and warm mineral spring type hot springs(total dissolved solids > 1 000 mg/L). WHO pain grading standard was used to score the degree of joint pain before and after hot spring bathing intervention. Serum APF, AKA and CCP antibodies were detected by ELISA kit before and after hot spring bathing. Results The joint pain score of the subjects was 2.60±0.60, and the joint pain score of the total population decreased after intervention(0.61±0.57, P < 0.05). Before intervention, the joint pain scores of water temperature type, metasilicic acid type and warm mineral spring type were 2.78±0.96, 1.98±1.15 and 3.31±0.57, respectively. After intervention, the scores of joint pain of the three kinds of hot spring bathing patients all decreased(P < 0.05), and were 0.50±0.65, 0.48±0.74 and 0.85±0.90, respectively. Before intervention, AKA(ng/L)and CCP(μg/mL)antibody levels of the observed subjects were 34.89±16.06 and 107.58±10.40, respectively, which significantly decreased after intervention(both P < 0.05), namely 26.06±10.68 and 102.93±6.01, respectively. AKA(ng/L)was 35.04±20.01 before intervention, but decreased significantly after intervention(26.61±7.54, P < 0.05). AKA(ng/L)and CCP(μg/mL)were 31.09±17.26 and 106.51±10.13 before intervention, respectively. After intervention, the above two antibody indexes significantly decreased(all P < 0.05)to 24.53±13.98 and 98.57±5.68, respectively. Before intervention, the AKA(ng/L), APF(ng/mL)and CCP(μg/mL)antibody levels were 38.40±8.66, 349.46±118.43 and 104.96±9.66, respectively. After intervention, the above three antibody indexes significantly decreased(all P < 0.05). The values were 34.00±7.55, 269.38±127.55 and 101.65±3.04, respectively. Conclusion The typical hot spring bathing intervention in Guizhou province can relieve the symptoms of joint pain, and the three types of hot springs can reduce the levels of AKA, APF and CCP antibodies to different degrees, and the warm mineral spring type of hot spring is better than the other types of hot spring.
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Objective To investigate the prevalence of osteoarthrosis and the association between hot spring bathing and osteoarthrosis among local adults in typical hot spring areas of Guizhou Province. Methods A face-to-face questionnaire survey was conducted among residents aged from 30 to 65 in five typical hot spring areas, including Xifeng(Xifeng County, Guiyang), Jianhe(Jianhe County, Qiandongnan), Fodingshan(Shiqian County, Tongren), Guiyu(Wudang District, Guiyang)and Huishangu(Suiyang County, Zunyi). Residents' basic information, bone and joint diseases prevalence, hot spring bathing, and other health-related behaviors were investigated in this study. The prevalence of local bone and joint diseases was analyzed, and binary logistic regression was used to calculate OR(95%CI)to analyze the association between hot spring bathing and bone and joint diseases. Results A total of 3 708 adults(1 648 males and 2 060 females)were included as the statistical analysis survey subjects, and 794 people reported bone and joint diseases, accounting for a prevalence rate of 21.41%, 95% CI: 0.201-0.227. The prevalence of females(24.56%)was higher than that of males(17.48%)(P < 0.001). The prevalence rates of diseases increased with age(χtrend2=130.265, P < 0.001). There were also statistically significant differences in the prevalence rate of bone and joint diseases among different genders, age groups, occupations, education levels, and smoking behaviors(P < 0.05). After gender, age, occupation, education and smoking were adjusted for, compared with the group who never took hot spring baths, participants who took hot spring baths occasionally(OR=0.793, 95%CI: 0.631-0.996)and frequently(OR=0.713, 95%CI: 0.536-0.948)were associated with a lower risk of bone and joint diseases. Conclusion The prevalence of osteoarthrosis is 21.41% in the typical hot spring areas of Guizhou Province. Older or females have a higher risk of prevalence of bone and joint diseases. Hot spring bathing may be associated with a lower risk of bone and joint diseases.
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Objective To explore the improvement effect of typical hot spring bathing on sleep and anxiety and its correlation with serum melatonin level in Guizhou province. Methods Five typical characteristic hot springs in Guizhou were selected according to the geological type of hot spring water. A total of 226 residents in these areas were selected for the survey and the self-rating scale of sleep(SRSS)and the self-rating anxiety scale(SAS)were used to measure their scores before and after hot spring bathing, and the correlation between the changes of SRSS and SAS scores and the serum melatonin levels were analyzed. Results The SRSS and SAS scores of the respondents after hot spring bathing were lower than before, and the difference was statistically significant(P < 0.05). Serum melatonin levels after hot spring bathing were significantly higher than before(P < 0.05), and there was a negative correlation between the changes of SRSS and SAS scores and serum melatonin levels(P < 0.05). Conclusion Typical hot springs in Guizhou Province can significantly improve the sleep quality and anxiety state, which are related to the elevation of serum melatonin level.
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Objective To study the relieving effects of hot spring bath therapy on sleep quality for people with sleep disorders based on data from health bracelets. Methods After health examinations, 311 people with sleep disorders who participated in the bath therapy in five typical hot spring areas in Guizhou Province were selected as the subjects. A four-week hot spring bath therapy was implemented, and the bathing method and the classification of hot springs were the same as the"Overview of study of the physiotherapy efficacy of typical hot springs in Guizhou Province". The daily sleep time at night(minutes), deep sleep ratio(%), light sleep ratio(%)and rapid eye movement ratio(%)for all subjects were collected using the Huawei Honor Band 3 health bracelets. Repeated measures analysis of variance was used to compare the differences in sleep quality indicators of each group at night each week. The effect of three different hot spring bath therapies on the improvement of night sleep quality was evaluated by factor analysis. Results Hot spring bath therapy can increase night sleep time and deep sleep ratio, while reducing light sleep ratio. Compared with the first week, the night sleep time in the following three weeks significantly increased(P < 0.05), especially in the fourth week; the deep sleep ratio during the third and fourth weeks was significantly higher than during the first and second weeks(P < 0.05), but the light sleep ratio was lower than during the first and second weeks(P < 0.05). The rapid eye movement ratio did not change significantly throughout the 4 weeks(P > 0.05). Further classified according to the physiotherapy components of geological hot springs, the results showed that the water temperature type of hot springs can increase night sleep time and reduce light sleep ratio; the warm mineral type of hot springs has a certain regulatory effect on increasing night sleep time, deep sleep ratio and reducing light sleep ratio; the metasilicic acid type of hot springs can improve night sleep quality by increasing night sleep time and deep sleep ratio, while reducing light sleep ratio and rapid eye movement ratio. The factor analysis results suggest that the metasilicic acid type of hot springs is better than the water temperature type and warm mineral type of hot springs in improving night sleep quality. Conclusion Hot spring bath therapy can improve the night sleep quality for people with sleep disorders to varying degrees, and the metasilicic acid type of hot springs is relatively better than other types.
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Objective To investigate the association between hot spring bathing behavior and hypertension and understand the mediation effect of sleep quality problems on the association. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among adults aged 30 to 65 living and working around five hot springs in Guizhou Province, employing a self-designed questionnaire on the health status and hot spring bathing, and 3 708 qualified questionnaires were collected. Participants were divided into three groups according to their frequency of hot spring bathing: never, occasionally, and frequently. Stratified via sex and sleep quality, the binary logistic regression model was used to analyze the association between different hot spring bathing frequencies and self-reported hypertension. Results Significant difference was detected in the self-reported hypertension between groups who never bathe(13.7%), who occasional bathe(9.4%)and who frequently bathe(8.5%)among female participants(χ2=10.460, P=0.005). However, no significant difference was found among different bathing groups in males. Furthermore, multivariate analysis showed that compared with no bathing, occasional(OR=0.692)and frequent (OR=0.594)hot spring bathing were associated with lower hypertension prevalence among female population, and female groups of occasional and frequent bathing with sleep quality problems had smaller OR(OR=0.571 and 0.406, respectively). After sleep quality problems were included, hot spring bathing was still associated with lower hypertension risk, and the OR values of occasional bathing and frequent bathing groups were 0.723 and 0.611, respectively. The sleep quality problems of female population played a partial mediating role in the association between hot spring bathing and hypertension, and the relative mediating effects of occasional bathing and frequent bathing with hypertension were both statistically significant(Zm=-2.022 and -1.995, P < 0.05), which accounted for 34.34% and 30.15% of the total effects, respectively. Conclusion Regular hot spring bathing may play an auxiliary role in the prevention of hypertension, and it may provide a stronger protection for women, and especially those with sleep quality problems. Sleep quality problems may explain part of the association between hot spring bathing and hypertension in female population.
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Objective To explore the effect of typical hot spring bathing of Guizhou Province on dyslipidemia, which could provide scientific basis for clarifying the physiotherapy effect of hot springs. Methods The typical hot spring sites of three main types(hydrothermal hot spring, warm mineral hot spring and metasilicate hot spring)in Guizhou Province were selected as investigation sites. 189 residents with hyperlipidemia near the investigation sites were selected as subjects and were treated with hot spring baths for 4 weeks, once a day, 5 times a week and 40-50 minutes each time. The age and gender distribution of the subjects were obtained by a questionnaire. The levels of TC, TG, LDL-C and HDL-C in serum were measured by automatic biochemical analyzer at baseline and at the end of hot spring baths. The differences of the three kinds of hot spring baths on improvement rate of dyslipidemia, the changes of abnormal blood lipid indexes and their improvement rates were compared. Results After baths of hydrothermal hot springs, warm mineral hot springs and metasilicate hot springs, the improvement rates of abnormally elevated lipids were 15.6%, 40.4% and 47.9%, respectively. The improvement rates of abnormally elevated lipids after baths of warm mineral hot springs and metasilicate hot springs were significantly higher than that after hydrothermal spring baths(all P < 0.05). Compared with before hot spring bathing, the levels of TC, TG, LDL-C and non-HDL-C in serum significantly decreased in all three kinds of hot springs. Moreover, the degree of decrease of TG in serum and the improvement rate of abnormal TG after baths of warm mineral spring and metasilicate hot spring were significantly higher than that after hydrothermal spring baths. The degree of decrease of LDL-C in serum and the improvement rate of abnormal LDL-C after baths of metasilicate hot spring were significantly higher than that after baths of hydrothermal spring and warm mineral spring(all P < 0.05). Conclusion The three types of typical hot spring baths in Guizhou Province can mitigate the elevation of blood lipid. Compared with hydrothermal spring, warm mineral spring and metasilicate hot spring may have better improvement effect on blood lipid elevation due to their more significant improvement effect on abnormal elevation of TG and LDL-C in serum.
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Objective To investigate the effects of hot spring baths on blood pressure, resting heart rate, cardiovascular function related indicators and physical signs in population with high-normal blood pressure. Methods Residents of typical hot spring areas in Guizhou Province were included as the subjects. According to the epidemiological survey of the research group and the physical examination results before the intervention, combined with the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 217 people with high normal blood pressure were selected as the observation subjects. The intervention of hot spring baths was carried out for four weeks, once time per day, 5 times per week, for 40-50 minutes each time. After the intervention, the blood pressure, resting heart rate and serum levels of creatine kinase(CK), lactate dehydrogenase(LDH), and α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase(α-HBDH)were detected, and the improvement of cardiovascular related signs(palpitation, dizziness/headache, cough/sputum and night sweats)were clinically examined. SPSS 23.0 software was used for statistical analysis. Results Paired t-test results showed that the systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and resting heart rate of 217 high normal blood pressure subjects were significantly lower after hot spring baths(P < 0.01). Further analysis revealed that the number of people with high normal blood pressure dropped from 217 to 128 after the hot spring baths. Before the intervention, 95 of the 217 people with high-normal blood pressure had resting heart rates between 80 and 90 beats/min, and 35 of them above 90 beats/min. After the intervention, the resting heart rates of those above people decreased to 68 and 14, respectively. Serum levels of cardiovascular related indicators showed that CK, LDH, and α-HBDH levels in people with high-normal blood pressure decreased to some extent after the intervention, and CK level was significantly lower than that before the intervention(P < 0.05). The results of clinical examination showed that hot spring baths had a significant improvement effect on palpitation, dizziness/headache, cough/expectoration, and night sweats in people with high-normal blood pressure. Conclusion The typical hot spring baths in Guizhou Province can reduce the blood pressure and resting heart rate in population with high-normal blood pressure, and improve the cardiovascular function related indicators and physical signs to a certain extent.
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Objective To analyze the association between hot spring bathing and the quality of life of smokers living in typical hot spring areas of Guizhou to make suggestions on improving their quality of life. Methods The study is a cross-sectional study whose data was collected by questionnaires. The WHO Quality of Life Scale(WHO QOL-BREEF)was used to measure quality of life. Results The quality of life in the psychological domain(14.09±1.83 vs 13.79±1.82, P < 0.05)and the environmental domain(12.70±1.84 vs 12.37±1.67, P < 0.05)among smokers who took hot spring baths was significantly higher than that among those who did not. After adopting ordinary logistic regression model to adjust for other factors, for the physical domain, the odd of scoring"good"in the WHO scale in group of smokers who took hot spring baths less that once a month was 0.70 lower than that in those who took baths at least once a month(OR=0.70, 95%CI: 0.54-0.91). In psychological domain, the odd of the group of smokers who did not take hot spring baths was 0.65 lower than that in those who took baths at least once a month(OR=0.65, 95%CI: 0.47-0.90). And the odd of the group of smokers who bathed less than once in a month was 0.71 lower than those who bathed at least once a month(OR=0.71, 95%CI: 0.54-0.92). Conclusion There is a positive relationship between hot spring bathing and quality of life, which prompts that people who smoke take hot spring baths to improve their quality of life.
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Objective To investigate hot spring bathing behavior and chronic disease prevalence of residents aged 30 to 65 in typical hot spring areas of Guizhou Province. Methods Totally 3 708 individuals between 30 and 65 in five typical hot spring areas of Guizhou Province were included in this study. Their hot spring bathing behavior and chronic disease prevalence were recorded. Unconditional logistic regression was used to analyze the association between hot spring bathing and the incidence of chronic diseases. Results 71.3% of the residents in the hot spring areas had bathed in hot springs, with the proportion higher in males than females(χ2=92.856, P < 0.001). 76.3% of people took hot spring baths fewer than or equal to 6 times per year, 30.8% of residents often chose to take hot spring baths in the evening, and 37.6% of the residents took hot spring baths for 21-40 minutes. Bathing was more common in winter. 11.5% and 17.9% of the residents added other substances and used hot spring facilities, and most of them added traditional Chinese medicine and used the sauna. 46.6% and 41.6 % of the residents took hot spring baths to relax and relieve fatigue. The self-reported prevalence rate of chronic diseases was 522.1‰, and the top five single diseases were lumbar intervertebral disc disease(119.7‰), hypertension(118.1‰), urinary calculus(77.7‰), cervical intervertebral disc disease(53.7‰)and osteogenesis(44.5‰). Compared with those who never bathed in hot springs, taking hot spring baths 7-11 times a year was negatively correlated with chronic diseases.(OR=0.551, 95%CI: 0.345-0.879). Conclusion Hot spring bathing is popular in typical hot spring areas of Guizhou Province, but its frequency is not high. The overall prevalence of chronic diseases is relatively high, and the order of most prevalent chronic diseases is different from that in other areas. Proper hot spring bathing is negatively correlated with chronic diseases.
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To implement the Guizhou Provincial Party Committee and the Provincial Government's strategic goal of building a"Chinese Hot Spring Province"in an all-round way, promote the development of Guizhou's"big health, big tourism, big poverty alleviation"and other industries, and enhance the development and utilization of Guizhou hot springs and their health and wellness value. With the support of the provincial Geological Prospecting Fund project Guizhou Province Physiotherapy Hot Springs(Geothermal Water)Survey and Evaluation, Guizhou Medical University was responsible for completing the topic"Study on the Physiotherapy Efficacy of Typical Hot Springs in Guizhou Province". Here, the background, study and design plan, quality control, and features and limitations of this project are briefly introduced.