BackgroundObesity is known to modulate human health in a number of ways including altering the microbiome of the gut. Very few studies have examined the how obesity may affect the microbiomes of sites distant to the gut. We hypothesized that vulva and abdominal skin may be especially susceptible to body mass index (BMI)-induced alterations in biophysical properties and the microbiome due increased maceration and skin folds at those sites. The aim of this study was to determine if high BMI (≥30) was associated with alterations in the biophysical properties and microbiomes of vulva and abdominal skin.ResultsThe vulvar microbial communities of healthy reproductive-aged females were examined using 16S rRNA sequencing techniques. Our results show that vulvar pH of women with high body mass index (BMI) was statistically higher than that of women with average BMI. Phylogenetic analysis of the vulvar microbiota indicated that women with average BMI have a predominately Lactobacillus-dominated flora, whereas women with high BMI and higher pH were predominately colonized by Finegoldia and Corynebacterium. This BMI-associated shift in microbiota was not observed in samples collected from the exposed skin around the belly, indicating the effect is not global.ConclusionThese results indicate that physiological changes associated with changes in BMI may modulate the vulva microbiome.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (10.1186/s12866-019-1391-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
The dye exclusion method was able to demonstrate the advantage of barrier ointments for wetness protection and also to discriminate between ointment formulations.
Date Presented 04/04/19
Deficits in ADL have been linked to the older adults’ ability to remain at home; little research has focused on the environmental modifications, equipment, and other strategies needed. This study used a technology survey and interviews to explore the ADL strategies used by community-dwelling older adults and their perspectives on factors impacting their ability to stay at home. Results will inform the development of effective ADL interventions using technology and environmental supports.
Primary Author and Speaker: Kathleen Foley
Additional Authors and Speakers: Jamie Gentry, Tralisa Myers, Lindsay Rankin, Kristin Shepard
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