bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The fear of Covid-19 and its predictive factors among health care workers in Mahdia Tunisia
Authors: Omri N , Mlouki I , Sfar H , Ben Youssef F , El Mhamdi S
Published: October 2021

Background

The massive spread of the corona virus being relatively deadly, leads to psychological pressures dominated by an atmosphere of panic and worries mainly among Health Care workers (HCWs). Only few studies have evaluated this impact on HCWs mental health in Tunisia.

Aim

we aimed at determining the prevalence of corona virus fear and its associated factors among HCWs in the University Hospital Tahar Sfar Mahdia (Tunisia).

Methods

We conducted a cross sectional study among HCWs staff in the University Hospital Tahar Sfar Mahdia which is located in the Central-East part of Tunisia in December 2020. The fear of corona virus disease was assessed using the valid French version of the Fear of Covid-19 Scale (FCV-7).

Results

A total of 173 professionals were recruited with a mean age of 35.35 ± 9.31 years. Among them, 66% were women. One third of participants (33.3%) were medical professionals. Almost, 68% have experienced a high level of fear. Our survey showed a significantly higher level of fear among females 70.1% and elderly people 60.8%. It was positively associated (p < 0.05) with anxiety and depression, high risk perception and the responsibility degree of being a virus vector for their loved ones. Anxiety and depression disorders (standardized β = 3.118, CI = 0.545-5.832,p=0.018), high risk perception (β = 3.321,CI = 0.097-6.545, p = 0.044), knowledge about Covid-19 transmission (β = 2.586, CI = 0.439-4.734, p = 0.019), degree of responsibility (β = 3.130, CI = 0.373-5.887, p = 0.026), being a doctor (β = -6.475, CI = -8.785- -4.165, p = 0.001) and Perceived Vulnerability to Disease (β = 0.26,CI = 0.157-0.363, p < 001) were found to be predictive factors of corona virus fear in the linear regression model (Adjusted R2 = 0.374).

Conclusions

Authorities should introduce a preventive strategy based on psychological intervention for HCWs to overcome their fear and worries.

Key messages

The high prevalence of the fear of Covid-19 among health care workers is alarming. Its impact on mental health cannot be ignored. The health authorities worldwide should not have as objective only the reduction of the transmission, but also the work on individual fears to ensure a society totally free of covid-19.
Knowledge,attitudes and practices of protective equipment use during the outbreak, Mahdia (Tunisia)
Authors: Ben Youssef F , Mlouki I , Omri N , Sfar H , El Mhamdi S
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Health workers, as the first line of defence during infectious pandemic, are also one of the main vectors of coronavirus transmission. Preventing the spread of infection to and from caregivers relies on the effectiveness of personal protective equipment (PPE). This study aimed at assessing knowledge, attitudes and practices related to PPE use in a healthcare setting in the region of Mahdia (Tunisia).

Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out on December 2020 among health care professionals (HCP) in the University Hospital Tahar Sfar Mahdia. The measurement tool was developed by specialists at the Department of Preventive Medicine after reviewing literature then pretested.

Results

A total of 173 HCP were enrolled with an average age of 35 ±9.3 years. More than half of participants were females (64.7%), 32.9% were doctors and 34.7% were nurses. Among them, 35.8% have worked during a pandemic before. The level of good knowledge was 52%. The main sources of information for HCP were the Ministry of Health (63.6%), social network and media (58.4%). About 25.4% of HCP was satisfied by the preventive measures training received in the hospital. Half of HCP (54.3%) admitted that their knowledge related to the pandemic was not sufficient. While third of the HCP (31.8%) thought that it is necessary to wear the full PPE, 16.8% knew how to put on their PPE and 27.2% knew how to take it off.

Conclusions

Taking into account knowledge, attitudes and practices related to PPE use allows the implementation of a strategy aimed at mastering the management of this equipment by health care workers.

Key messages

Assessing the Knowledge, attitudes and practices related to the personal equipment among health care givers: 52%. Implementation of a strategy aimed at mastering the management of this equipment by health care workers.
Perceived vulnerability to Covid-19 among health care workers in a Tunisian University Hospital
Authors: Omri N , Mlouki I , Sfar H , Ben Youssef F , El Mhamdi S
Published: October 2021

Background

Health Care workers (HCWs) are constantly on the front line during the current pandemic, facing a permanent influx of patients with a significant risk of viral contamination. Our study aimed at estimating the corona virus disease high risk perception and evaluating determinant factors of the perceived vulnerability to Covid-19 among HCWs in the region of Mahdia (Tunisia).

Methods

We conducted a cross sectional study among HCWs in the University Hospital Tahar Sfar Mahdia in Tunisia in December 2020. The perceived vulnerability to disease was assessed using the validated perceived vulnerability to disease scale (PVDS).

Results

A total of 173 professionals were recruited with a mean age of 35.35 ± 9.4 years. Among them, 66% were women. One third of participants (33.3%) were doctors. The majority of them (86%) have experienced a high level of risk perception. The older HCWs (p = 0.04), the nursing personnel (p = 0.02), as well as, those with pre-existing chronic diseases (p = 0.04) perceived greater vulnerability to Covid-19. It was also significantly associated (p = 0.01) with undressing faults. Being older (standardized β = 0.193, CI = 0.601-7.707, p = 0.003), having pre-existing chronic diseases (β = 0.184, CI = 0.478-8.888, p = 0.05), high risk perception (β = 0.162, CI= -0.087-10.47, p = 0.02) and undressing faults (β = 0.224, CI = 0.582-1.306, p = 0.008), were found to be the determinant factors of the perceived vulnerability to disease PVD in a multivariate linear logistic regression model (adjusted R2=0.129).

Conclusions

Perceived vulnerability to Covid-19 is mainly manifested by an atmosphere of fear of getting infected, but also by compliance with barrier measures. This fact is aligned with health authorities's strategies to ensure a society totally free of Covid-19.

Key messages

During the current Covid-19 pandemic the majority of health care workers worldwide have experienced a high level of risk perception which negatively impacts their mental health. Health care workers must be provided with the personal protective equipment PPE essential to protect themselves against the Covid-19 transmission.
Assessing the impact of COVID-19 pandemic in vulnerable social groups in Athens, Greece
Authors: Roussos S , Anagnostou O , Detsi I , Kokolesis E , Malliori M , Kalamitsis G , Sypsa V , Hatzakis A
Published: October 2021

Background

The first case of SARS-CoV-2 in Greece was identified in February 2020. During the COVID-19 pandemic two lockdowns took place (March-May 2020/November 2020-ongoing). People who use drugs (PWUD), as well as the homeless, constitute vulnerable social groups. The main aim of this study is to assess the impact of social distancing measures during the COVID-19 pandemic on these groups.

Methods

A program was implemented in Athens between December 2020 and January 2021 in a sample of PWUD and homeless recruited both in Substitution Treatment Units and the Homeless Shelters. The interview was conducted with a structured questionnaire.

Results

The study included 303 participants (215 PWUD and 88 homeless individuals (HI)). The mean (SD) age was 49.2 (9.7) and 61.9 (10.2) years for PWUD and HI respectively. Chronic hepatitis C was reported by 33% of PWUD and 1.1% of HI. HIV infection was reported in 9.3% of PWUD. Testing for SARS-CoV-2 was reported by 55% and 100% of PWUD and HI respectively; 0.8% of PWUD and 5.7% of HI were found positive. Compliance with individual measures against SARS-CoV-2 was reported to be high (98-100%) during lockdowns. 88.8% and 98.9% of PWUD and HI reported change in the quality life. Feelings of isolation were reported by 46.6% and 11.5% on PWUD and HI, respectively. PWID enrollment in OST programmes during the 1st and 2nd lockdown was 67.1% and 92.9% respectively. OST attendees did not report changes in treatment during lockdowns. Access to hygiene materials was 9.8% and 100% in 1st and 2nd lockdown. Access to drugs was high (91.5% and 94.3%) in both lockdowns. The illegal drug use as compared to regular use was increased 12.2%/14.3%, decreased 40.2%/40%, stable 47.6%/45.7% for 1st/2nd lockdown respectively.

Conclusions

The population studied is well-aware and compliant with the prevention measures against COVID-19 with access to frequent laboratory testing, low levels of SARS-CoV-2 and access to prevention materials.

Key messages

Among PWUD the OST services provision was stable. Provision of antiseptics was higher during the 2nd lockdown while changes in drug use were similar during the 1st and 2nd lockdown. Limitation: This study does not assess PWUD with limited access to OST and HI living in the streets.
Factors associated with objectively-derived physical activity and sedentary behavior in older adults
Authors: Chen Mrs , van Hees Mr , Yerramalla Mrs , Dugravot Mrs , Landré Mr , Fayosse Mrs , Benadjaoud Mr , Sabia Mrs
Published: October 2021

Background

Identification of factors associated with older adults' physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) is essential to inform effective targeted prevention strategies to prevent the impact of lack of PA and high sedentary time on health in older adults. While most previous studies examined factors associated activity levels separately, this study investigated factors associated with the activity distribution using the continuum of acceleration, avoiding loss of information that could arise from categorization of activity levels.

Methods

This study included 3896 participants (25.3% women, mean [range] age: 69.4 [60-83] years) from the Whitehall II accelerometer sub-study. The association of socio-demographic, lifestyle and cardiometabolic factors with the whole activity intensity distribution and time in SB, light PA and moderate-to-vigorous PA was examined using functional data analysis and linear regressions, respectively. The consistency of the associated factors over time was examined using factors assessed at the time of the activity measure, and 9 and 18 years prior this measure.

Results

Cross-sectional analyses showed participants who were older, current smokers, obese, with chronic conditions, and those reporting poor SF36 physical component score spent more time in the lowest acceleration intensities at the expense of less time in higher intensities. Occupational position in men and SF36-mental component score in women were additionally associated with activity distribution. In both men and women, the pattern of factors associated with PA and SB were generally similar in prospective and cross-sectional analyses.

Conclusions

This study confirms socio-demographic disparities in PA and SB and identify several modifiable factors which are eligible to health promotion interventions. Factors associated with activity intensity distribution at older age were consistent in the 20 years before physical activity measure.

Key messages

Factors associated with activity intensity distribution at older age slightly differ between men and women. Factors associated with activity intensity distribution at older age were consistent whether they were assessed in mid-life or at older age suggesting promotion of PA shall start as early as possible.
eHealth for elderly people with balance disorders and risk of falling. A mixed methods study
Authors: Gaspar A , Escada P , Lapão L
Published: October 2021

Background

The increasing life expectancy in Europe has not always been accompanied by an increase in healthy life expectancy. The burden of chronic diseases including balance disorders with risk of falling, and insufficient access to clinical data have led to a misuse of healthcare provision. Portuguese government have invested in digital heath, including electronic health record and eHealth services, as a strategy to relieve this pressure. However, the clinical applicability of eHealth devices in screening, assessing, and treating elderly people with balance disorders and risk of falling in Portugal is unknown.

Objective

This study aims at knowing how can the health systems use eHealth for more effective provision of care for elderly people with balance disorders and risk of falling.

Methods

An explanatory sequential mixed methods study was performed. From June to August 2019, an open questionnaire with 18 multiple choice questions was made available on the website of Portuguese General Medical Council. Subsequently, from December 2019 to April 2020, a qualitative study was conducted with semi-structured interviews. The eligible participants were physicians who provide healthcare to the elderly.

Results

118 physicians responded to the questionnaire. 55% of the participants were dissatisfied or very dissatisfied with digital clinical availability and 61% with the time spent to access and to fill data. The eHealth was considered pertinent or very pertinent by 76% of the participants. Eight senior physicians discussed the constraints of data availability and pointed out strategies to improve clinical data and eHealth devices.

Conclusions

Despite the investments in digital health, there are still constraints contributing to the current misuse of care provision for elderly people with balance disorders. The use of eHealth was considered beneficial, but it should be improved further, and it should be considered for a more effective care delivery.

Key messages

In Portugal, there are still constraints contributing to the current misuse of care provision for elderly people with balance disorders. and risk of falling. The use of eHealth should be improved for a more effective provision of care.
Digital health literacy and its association with anxiety among students in Pakistan
Authors: Zakar R , Zakar MZ , Dadaczynski K , Okan O
Published: October 2021

Background

The public health importance of digital health literacy has significantly increased during COVID-19 pandemic all over the world. Health literacy enables individuals in informed and timely decision making. Anxiety particularly during difficult situations may hinders the decision making ability of individuals. The aim of this study was to assess the digital health literacy seeking and its association with anxiety level among university students during the wake of COVID-19 pandemic in Pakistan.

Methods

This study was conducted as a member of COVID digital Health literacy network between 49 countries through an online-based cross-sectional survey. Data were collected with 1747 students from randomly selected four public sector universities in Punjab province of Pakistan. Digital health literacy instrument was used to assess students' skills in digital health information seeking regarding COVID-19. Sense of coherence (SOC) was evaluated through 9-item scale and anxiety was assessed using 9-items Dark Future Scale. Simple bivariate and multivariate linear regression was performed to assess the association of key characteristics with DHL and anxiety level among students.

Results

The study found that about 54% of the students had high DHL and 51.9% had low or no anxiety. The results of multivariate analysis show that gender (p value=0.005), sense of coherence (p value<0.001) and importance of information (p value<0.001) were significantly associated with DHL. Additionally, Age (p < 0.001), subject group of study (p = 0.03), university of study (p < 0.000) and financial satisfaction (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with anxiety among students. However, there was no significant relationship of DHL, SOC, and wellbeing with anxiety.

Conclusions

Concerted and focused interventions are needed to address anxiety related issues among university students.

Key messages

Future research should focus on health literacy environment and its relationship with the broader social, economic, and psychosocial contexts of anxiety among students. Concerted and focused interventions are needed to address anxiety related issues among university students.
Quality of life in adult patients with open-angle glaucoma:a systematic review
Authors: Dhouib W , Abdallah S , Bannour R , Ben Cheikh A , Bhiri S , Ghali H , Khefacha S , SAID Latiri H , Ben Rejeb M
Published: October 2021

Background

Assessment of the quality of life of glaucoma is an essential basis for their management in order to prevent deterioration of the disease. The aim of the study was to describe through a systematic review the quality of life of patients with open angle glaucoma and identify its associated factors.

Methods

It was a systematic review conducted based on the preferred reporting items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA).Criteria for eligibility were all published population-based primary literature in Pubmed and Embase interface, written in English, since January 2014 to 31 December 2019. Electronic research was done through the following documentary query ((((‘glaucoma'[MeSH Terms]) AND (‘quality of life'[MeSH Terms])) AND (‘open angle glaucoma'[Title/Abstract])) AND (‘adult'[MeSH Terms])) AND (‘risk factors'[MeSH Terms]).Level of evidence and grades of recommendation was assessed according to the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN).

Results

Among 139 articles, 15 were selected. Most of them were descriptive cross-sectional studies using different measuring instruments. We found that the quality of life of glaucoma patients varies according to the regions in Asia, Europe, America and Africa. The highest scores were recorded in Asia, followed by North America and Europe, which have very close scores. The risk factors associated with the quality of life of glaucoma patients were: Age, sex, level of education, professional status, marital status, visual acuity and disability, anxiety and depression.

Conclusions

The level of quality of life in this type of patient varies considerably between regions and countries and even in the same country. Associated factors are predominantly socio-demographic.

Key messages

The level of quality of life in patients with glaucoma varies considerably between regions and countries. Associated factors are predominantly socio-demographic.
Not really a smoker? Prevalence and attitudes to social occasional smoking in Trinity College Dublin
Authors: Hayes CB , Murray SR , Lyne SJ , Cryan MC , Mullin M , McGrath D
Published: October 2021

Background

Occasional smoking is defined as any smoking which occurs on a less than daily basis. Social smoking is a sub-group of occasional smoking which is smoking primarily carried out in social contexts. Data on occasional cigarette smoking and the subset of social smoking among third-level students are limited. This study assessed the prevalence of and attitudes to occasional/social smoking among undergraduates and postgraduates in an Irish university

Aims

(1) To determine the prevalence of occasional/social smoking among third-level students; (2) To evaluate students' attitudes to occasional/social smoking, including perceived benefits and harm; (3) To explore when students commenced occasional/social smoking, their reasons and their continued smoking habits; and (4) To determine any influence of other factors e.g. alcohol consumption on occasional/social smoking.

Methods

Anonymous online survey of undergraduates and postgraduates, via email and social media using Survey Monkey. Data were analysed in Microsoft Excel.

Results

1,310/18,407 (7.1%) of students responded. 1,267/1,310 (96.7%) provided adequate data for analysis. 423/1267 (33.4%) self-reported as current smokers of whom 106/1267 (8.4%) classified themselves as daily and 317/1267 (25%) as occasional smokers. The occasional smokers comprised 266/1267 (21%) social smokers and 51/1267 (4%) non-social smokers. Occasional smokers tended to start smoking later and think less about quitting than daily smokers. 386/423 (97.2%) of all current smokers reported that alcohol increased their smoking habits.

Conclusions

Prevalence of self-reported occasional smoking among university students was higher than daily smoking. Most occasional smokers primarily smoked in social contexts. All current smokers reported that alcohol increased cigarette intake. Effective intervention campaigns tailored to determinants of occasional/social smoking are needed as part of induction to third level.

Key messages

Prevalence of self-reported occasional smoking among university students is higher than daily smoking. Most occasional smokers smoke primarily in a social environment. Campaigns tailored to determinants of occasional/social smoking are needed for university entrants as part of induction to third level.
Cut-off values for anthropometric indices in predicting morbidity and mortality in Turkey: a cohort
Authors: Erkoyun E , Boncukçu Eren E , Ünal B , Sakarya S , Sözmen K , Dinç Horasan G , Ekinci B , Ergör G
Published: October 2021

Background

Anthropometric measurements are associated with cardiovascular outcomes and mortality and the association varies by community. This study aims to estimate the incidence of cardiovascular outcomes and all cause mortality and determines their association with the anthropometric measurements.

Methods

The data from Turkey Chronic Diseases and Risk Factors Survey were used for the cohort which recruited two 15 years and older adults from each family physicians' list in 2011 in Turkey using simple random sampling (n = 18,477). Family physicians collected the medical history and performed anthropometric measurements. Initially healthy participants for cardiovascular morbidity (coronary heart disease (ICD-10 codes I20.0-I25.0) and stroke (ICD-10 codes I60.0-I69.0) and all participants for all-cause and cardiovascular mortality were followed-up through electronic health records by 2017. Area under the curves (AUCs) were estimated and the adiposity risk was defined as cut-off points determined using Youden Index. The sample was stratified by age-groups (<65, ≥65). Poisson and Cox models were fitted for morbidity and mortality outcomes, respectively.

Results

Over six years of follow-up, 5.7% of 15,877 and 1.3% of 16,062 participants developed CHD and stroke respectively. In total, 664 all-cause deaths (4.0%) were observed with 155 caused by CVDs (0.9%). A body shape index (i.e. 0.658 for all-cause mortality among younger men), waist-to-height ratio (i.e. 0.743 for CHD incidence among younger women), and BMI had higher AUCs for the outcomes. Higher anthropometric measurement groups had almost always higher CHD incidence risk in all groups but lower all-cause mortality in older men. Higher body-mass index was associated with lower mortality in younger men.

Conclusions

This cohort study in Turkey showed that having higher anthropometric measurements is mostly associated with higher CHD incidence and mostly lower mortality among older men. This association deserves further studies.

Key messages

In Turkey, higher anthropometric measurements are associated with higher coronary heart disease incidence in among participants. In Turkey, higher anthropometric measurements are mostly associated with lower all-cause mortality in older age-groups.
The Impact of Health Sector Reforms on Health System in Bangladesh: A Scoping Review
Authors: Udechukwu T , Carnapete L , Matin M , Haider S , Clech L , Ridde V
Published: October 2021

Background

Climate-induced environmental changes, and their potential impact on population health, are among the most pressing challenges affecting health systems. These health impacts put additional strain on health systems, putting their resilience and capacity to deal with increased shocks and stresses to the test. Implementing reforms to address the vulnerabilities in the health system can help build its capacity to cope with these shocks. We conducted a scoping review to explore the literature on health sector reforms in Bangladesh and understand their impact on health systems.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted by searching through academic (MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Web of Science and Google Scholar) and grey literature published in English and French between 1991 and 2021 that addressed national health sector reforms impacting the health system and access to care.

Results

Our search yielded 2688 articles for screening and 22 were included in our scoping review. One of the major health sector reforms was the shift from a project-based approach to a sector-wide approach (SWAp) in health. Studies found that implementing initiatives such as community clinics, a voucher scheme for pregnant women, increase in hospital beds at public facilities improved health care access and delivery of care, especially for rural districts. Despite government efforts, the health system continues to be vulnerable to shocks due to a significant shortage of formally qualified health professionals especially nurses and technologists and relatively low public financing.

Conclusions

Evidence suggests that health sector reforms implemented as part of SWAp have had a limited improvement on the health system. More emphasis should be placed in the future on implementing reforms to address critical issues such as human resources for health and health financing, which may contribute to building their capacity to cope with emerging threats due to climate change and improving access to care.

Key messages

Building a resilient health system may involve assessing the system's vulnerabilities, strengths and limitations through the perspective of health sector reforms. Current health sector reforms have had limited impact in addressing the vulnerabilities of the health system.
Substitution of processed meat for fish or poultry and the impact on hypertension in the E3N cohort
Authors: Thao U , Madika A L , Boutron-Ruault MC , MacDonald CJ
Published: October 2021

Objectives

Processed meat has been associated with an increased risk of hypertension (1). This study aimed to determine the possible effect of substituting processed meat (PM) with fish using specified food substitution models (2), in the French E3N cohort study.

Methods

This study included 46843 women from the prospective E3N study who had no hypertension at 1993, and completed a first food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) sent in 1993 which was used to estimate dietary intakes of various foods including PM, and fish, considering serving sizes of 150 g. Estimates of the hazard ratio for incident hypertension were obtained using Cox Proportional Hazard Models, and the substitution method (2) was used to obtain estimates for substitution of PM for fish. Boot-strapping with 50 samples was used to estimate 95% confidence intervals for the substitution. Models were sequentially adjusted for age and risk-factors for hypertension, then dietary variables, and finally energy.

Results

During follow-up, 12,465 cases of hypertension were reported over 712,703 personyears. Mean consumption of processed meat was 1.3 servings/week, 1.3 servings/week for fish and 2.3 servings/week for poultry. Substitution of one serving of processed meat for fish per week was associated with a slightly reduced risk of hypertension in all models, regardless of the underlying restrictions placed on diet, or energy (HR = 0.95(0.91: 0.98)). The association was weaker for poultry (HR = 0.98 (0.96, 1.01)).

Conclusions

Substitution one serving of PM for fish per week could be associated with a small reduction in the risk of hypertension amongst French women.

References: (1) Lajous M, et al. Processed and unprocessed red meat consumption and hypertension in women. Am J Clin Nutr. 2014 Sep;100(3):948-52. (2) Ibsen D, et al, Food substitution models for nutritional epidemiology, Am J Clin Nutr, 2021 Feb;113(2):294-303

Key messages

Processed meat is associated with an increased risk of hypertension. Substitution of processed meat for fish may reduce this risk.
Report on the presence of Salmonella and Campylobacter spp. in fresh meat marketed in Italy
Authors: Corradini C , Russini V , Migliore G , Varcasia BM , De Marchis ML , De Santis P , Lovari S , Bogdanova T , Bossù T , Bilei S
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Salmonella (S.) and Campylobacter (C.) are the most common agents of foodborne infections and a risk for immunocompromised patients. The present study reports the prevalence and characterization of S. spp. in imported poultry, beef and pork meat marketed in Italy over six years. Furthermore, we present data of prevalence and species identification for C. spp. isolated from poultry samples collected in the years 2016 and 2018.

Methods

Poultry (chicken and turkey), beef and pork meat samples were collected by Health Local Authorities all over Italy. The presence of C. was tested according to the ISO 10272 and the species identification was assessed using Multiplex PCR (C. coli e C. jejuni). S. was tested according ISO 6579 and serovars were identified through serum agglutination using S. antisera.

Results

The prevalence of S. in chicken and turkey was respectively 1.31% (4/306) and 0% in 2016, 7.89% (24/304) and 2.33% (7/300) in 2018, 14.4% (37/257) and 3.59% (9/251) in 2020; S. was never detected in beef meat but it was found in 1.05% (3/287) of pork samples in 2015, 1.98% (5/253) in 2017, 1.74% (5/287) in 2019. Among all the available samples, the most common serotypes identified were S. Infantis and S. Bredeney. The presence of C. was detected in 4.25% (13/306) of chicken samples and in 0.74% (2/272) of turkey samples in 2016, increasing respectively to 17% (17/100) and 1.06% (1/94) in 2018. Similar frequencies were found for coli and jejuni species.

Conclusions

The results show that poultry meat is the most relevant source of C. and S. Uncooked or not well-cooked meat can still be a risk for the consumers, despite the adoption of biosecurity measures suited to prevent S. to enter in farms. Source attribution and prevalence studies like this can be a useful tool to set up monitoring plans, identify priorities for food safety interventions and risk communication.

Key messages

The crucial role of source attribution studies to help Authorities to plan further controls. Public agencies and stakeholders should give clear communication about the risk of not well-cooked meat.
Evaluation of the stress and eating behaviors of medical students after university entrance exam
Authors: Kara SA , Demir M T , Sengelen M
Published: October 2021

Emotions are important on eating behaviours but the direction of the effect is unknown. The aim of this study is to evaluate eating behaviours and some related factors of first grade medical students after the university entrance exam. This study was performed in a medical faculty from Ankara, Turkey in October 2019. Researchers used a questionnaire comprising of 56 questions; 23 questions about students' sociodemographical characteristics and 33-item Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire (DEBQ). DEBQ is a self-report questionnaire and Turkish validity and reliability was tested in 2011. Written permission from Faculty Executive Committee was obtained prior to the study and informed consent were obtained from the participants. The significance level was taken as p < 0.05. SPSS 25.0 package program was used in data analysis. Three hundred and ninety one students (80.6%) out of a total of 485 participated in the study. Of all 319 students participating in this study, the mean age was 18.53±0.71 and 52.4% were men (n = 205). Forty point two percent of the students claimed that their eating habits were healthless, while 33.8% of the students stated that they ate more when they were stressed and 50.9% of the students stated that their body weight was increased during their university entrance exam period. Mean DEBQ total points were higher in women and in students who stated that their body weight was increased during their university entrance exam period than the others (student t test, p < 0,001; ANOVA test, p < 0,001, respectively). Multiple Linear regression analysis pointed out that being women increased DEBQ total point by 9,091 point (p < 0,001, 95% CI: 5,595-12,587). This study demonstrated that nutrition and eating habits are critical issues for young people's life and their future. Therefore many students need more help and guidance about stress management and healthy eating habits especially when they are preparing for important exams and also right after the exams.

Key messages

This study demonstrated that nutrition and eating habits are critical issues for young people’s life and their future. Many students need more help and guidance about stress management and healthy eating habits especially when they are preparing for important exams and also right after the exams.
The perceived obesogenic environment survey in the Flemish municipal context – the CIVISANO project
Authors: Inac Y , D'Hooghe S , Dury S , Clerq E De , Vandevijvere S , van Dyck D , Deforche B , Van Der Weghe N , de Ridder K
Published: October 2021

Background

The prevalence of obesity worldwide has been steadily increasing. This has generated an uptake in research determining the cause of obesity. One of the primary drivers that have been identified is the “obesogenic environment', which is an environment that contains features that increase excess weight in individuals or populations. Obesogenic environments are unevenly distributed with socio-economically disadvantaged neighbourhoods being more affected.

Methods

This survey is part of the CIVISANO (‘Community-based participatory research to tackle the disparities in health-enhancing lifestyle within the municipality environment') project, which will be conducted in two municipalities. Respondents will be socio-economically disadvantaged adults between 25- and 65-years old. To gain information on individual characteristics and perceptions of the obesogenic environment, residents will be invited to complete a survey. Since it is known that socio-economically disadvantaged respondents are difficult to reach a non-random active recruitment approach will be applied. The following variables are included in the survey: sociodemographic information, subjective health and anthropometrics, dietary habits, food security and physical activity. Items from the SPOTLIGHT project survey and NEMS-P survey were added to assess respondent's perceptions of features of the obesogenic environment. Additional variables on individual characteristics were based on items from the Belgian National Health Interview Survey of 2019.

Results

Through the survey, we expect to gain insight into the perceptions of socio-economically disadvantaged adults on obesogenic features of their local environment. Initial results from the survey will be available in the upcoming months.

Conclusions

The construction of instruments to assess the context-specific features, which can be compared with objective measurements, can increase our knowledge of contextual determinants of the obesogenic environment.

Key messages

The first Flemish survey that focuses on perceptions of socio-economically disadvantaged adults on obesogenic features of their local environment in the municipal context. Gaining a better understanding of the local obesogenic environment creates an opportunity to promote and strengthen the development of effective local interventions to build healthier environments.
Effects of antibiotic treatment on antimicrobial resistance in pig microbiomes: a longitudinal study
Authors: Balasubramanian R , Kalmar L , Holmes M , Restif O
Published: October 2021

The United Kingdom has prohibited the prophylactic use of antibiotics in agriculture but they are still critical for disease control. It is thus vital to understand the effects of antibiotic treatment on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) spread. Hi-C metagenomic sequencing can help identify AMR genes in animal microbiomes and assign plasmid-based genes to their bacterial hosts. Leveraging Hi-C, we sequence antibiotically-treated pig microbiomes through time to identify dynamic trends in AMR gene prevalence. Fecal samples were collected at time points prior to and following antibiotic treatment in 6 farms across England when pigs presented with illness. Control samples were collected from 2 of these farms at multiple time points without treatment. Samples were processed using a bioinformatic pipeline that outputs assemblies with information on taxonomic classification and presence/absence of an AMR allele. 115 AMR alleles across 11 antibiotic classes were included. The bacterial species in highest abundance/farm belonged to order Bacteroidales (45.9-53.1%). Tetracycline resistance alleles showed the highest prevalence/farm (28.4-52.8%). No significant association between bacterial species abundance and time point, and AMR allele prevalence and time point was found in all farms (χ2 p>.05). The distribution of the number of AMR alleles/assembly was significantly higher between the first and last time point in 4/6 treated farms and 1/2 control farms (Wilcoxan rank sum p <.01). A higher difference in the proportion of assemblies with greater than 6 AMR alleles between the first and last time point was observed in 1 treated farm (.17 95% CI .013-.21) compared to its control (.03 95% CI .023-.033). Slight acquisition of AMR alleles was observed but we see minimal temporal fluctuations in bacterial species abundance and AMR allele prevalence overall implying that the microbiome is fairly robust to antibiotic treatment. This encourages its responsible use for disease control.

Key messages

Ensuring that the responsible use of antibiotics does not drastically affect AMR mobilization is key to preserving the efficacy of therapeutics in agriculture. While acquisition of resistance genes over time is seen it cannot conclusively be tied to treatment; Minimal microbiome perturbation post treatment implies that therapeutic antibiotic use is warranted.
Child health status from the parents perspective - judgement accuracy verification
Authors: Metelska P , Brzeziński M , Szarszewski A
Published: October 2021

Background

The assessment of an individual's health condition is a challenge because of the wide range of forms and values contained within the meaning of the term ‘health'. In case of less independent groups, it is necessary to use the assessments of the guardians or proxies. This is the case when the health status of minors is being assessed. Proper assessment by parents is often crucial to take appropriate action to maintain the child's health. Objectivity of parental assessment should be verified. The aim of presented study was to assess the impact of selected factors on the parents' perception of their children's health.

Methods

The material for analysis was the results of anthropometric studies and questionnaire interviews conducted with 28891 parents of children between 6 and 14 years of age from Gdańsk -participating in screening tests during the health program 6-10-14 for Health.

Results

In the study group prevalence of excess body mass increases with age and frequency of underweight decreases with age. No significant intergroup differences were observed, therefore the opinion on the child's body weight is not affected by real body mass of parents. In families where parents declare excess body mass, the child's body mass is more often estimated incorrectly. These parents significantly lower their children's body weight.

Conclusions

The correct assessment of the child's state of health and behaviors related to health is not dependent on parents' weight and level of education, but it depends on parents' opinion about their body weight. Almost ¼ of parents (24.6%) is wrong when they estimate their child's body weight. The main cause of error is the perception of their own body mass. Parents' ratings for healths-related behaviors show very low sensitivity and specificity. There is a need for objectification of assessment in relation to the child's health. It is necessary to use verification methods of information given by parents.

Key messages

In-depth interviews are valuable. ‘Simple' questions don’t provide accurate answers, but often introduce false information to medical records. Family history that is part of the study should be extended by standardized questions. It will allow medical professionals to get reliable information from parents about their child.
A study on stress factors in ferrous metallurgy in Bulgaria and ways of their minimizing and control
Authors: Stoilova I , Georgieva S , Kamburova M , Kostadinova P
Published: October 2021

Background

Stress at workplace arises when the requirements for workers don't meet their personal or social capabilities, or differ from the individual's needs and motivation. Occupational stress is observed in a number of both elementary and high-tech occupational fields. In ferrous metallurgy it could be associated with 24/7 operating mode, high work intensity and a variety of unfavorable characteristics of working environment. The aim of the study is to clarify the nature of factors - stressors in ferrous metallurgy and to define ways for reduction of their negative health impact.

Materials and Methods

Study subject are 91 workers in an electric steel-making department of a ferrous metallurgy enterprise in Bulgaria. Data, concerning working conditions, work characteristics, workers satisfaction, presence/absence of stress and chronic diseases, were collected by direct individual self-administered questionnaire and documents review.

Results

Two of three study subjects reported stress related to their work. Noise, varies from 89.2 to 92.2 dB/A (at rate 85 dB/A) in different sections of the workshop, is the biggest stressor according to 77.5% of the investigated people, followed by short deadlines for task performance (46.5%) and ineffective leadership (32.4%). In addition, negative effects of stress is increasing by high dust levels, reaching up to 7 mg/m3 air at a standard of 6 mg/m3 air, and contain manganese, coke, chamotte, free and bound silica, rare metals, increased concentration of CO and more.Nevertheless workers consider that the organization provides measures for stress reduction by strict control on the limit values of noise, dust, temperature and chemicals (49.2%),provision of personal protective equipment establishment (69%) of a rational mode of work and rest (56.3%) and healthy eating (47.9%).

Conclusions

Despite a plenty of environmental and organizational stressors, their negative effects could be decreased by appropriate preventive measures.

Key messages

Factors-stressor in ferrous metallurgy could be associated with a variety of unfavorable characteristics of working environment,non-stop operating mode, high work intensity and poor time management. Noise is the biggest stressor followed by short deadlines for task performance and ineffective leadership. Stressors are modifiable and preventable by strict hygienic control and improved management.
Self-perception of childrenś oral health by their parents
Authors: Veiga N , Carvalho A , Correia P , Couto P , Correia MJ
Published: October 2021

Background

Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to early tooth loss, pain, discomfort and, consequently, a great monetary investment to repair the damage caused in the stomatognathic system, whether of masticatory, phonetic or aesthetic origin. The aim of the present study consists in the characterization of oral health perception and oral hygiene habits of the children by their own parents and the creation of a scale to classify children's oral health perception by their parents.

Methods

A cross-sectional observational epidemiological study was performed. The population of this study was made up of 422 parents whose children are between five and eleven years of age and who attend schools in the districts of Viseu and Lisbon. The data collection was achieved through the application of a self-administered questionnaire in order to characterize the parentś perception of the oral health of their own children.

Results

Through the analysis of the questionnaires, 54.8% of the sample considered that their own children present inadequate oral health behaviors; 40.3% sufficient and only 4.8% consider that their children have good and adequate oral health behaviors. Regarding oral hygiene, most of the children did it one to five times a day, 44.7% took ‘2 minutes' to perform this activity, 70.3% did not use dental floss, 77.9% do not brush their teeth after lunch, 49.3% only use toothbrush for oral hygiene, 13.6% never went to the dentist, 26.9% are afraid, 38.1% have already suffered from toothache, 28.8% had gingival hemorrhage and 12.6% had gingival inflammation.

Conclusions

Oral health is a determining factor for a good quality of life. To this end, it is essential to implement oral health education and promotion strategies with all members of the household, in order to guarantee better oral health indexes in the community.

Key messages

Oral health literacy and knowledge is essential in order to improve oral health indexes in the community. The characterization of the oral health of children and adolescents is crucial to improve oral health behaviors and establish the correct oral health promotion programs.
Is internet addiction related to self-esteem and insomnia among engineering students?
Authors: Ketata N , Ben Ayed H , Ben Jmeaa M , Maamri H , Baklouti M , Yaich S , Jedidi J , Feki H , Damak J
Published: October 2021

Introduction

With the availability and mobility of new media, Internet addiction (IA) has emerged as a potential problem in young people which refers to excessive computer use that interferes with their daily life, with harmful behavioral-psychological impact. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of IA among engineering students (ES) and to evaluate its relationship with self-esteem and insomnia.

Methods

In a cross-sectional survey using an anonymous self-administered questionnaire, data was collected from a randomized sample of 305 ES in Sfax, Southern Tunisia. Previously validated and standardized scales including Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) and Rosenberg self-esteem and Internet Addiction Test (IAT) were performed.

Results

Among 305 ES, 185 (60.7%) were females, giving a male to female ratio of 0.6. Their mean age was 22.9 ± 2.6. Prevalence of internet addiction was 41.3% (N=); it was moderate in 102 ES (80.9%) and severe in 24 ES (19.1%). As for insomnia and low self-esteem, their prevalence rates were 59.6 and 28.2%, respectively. Unhealthy lifestyle behaviors including mixing cannabis with tobacco (OR = 11.2; p = 0.02), skipping meals once a day (OR = 3.6; p = 0.041), first use of smartphones at younger age (OR = 2.2; p = 0.042) and spending ≥3 hours per day on line (OR = 3.2; p = 0.032) were statistically associated with internet addiction. Academic failure during the last year (OR = 2.02; p = 0.04) was significantly more frequent among internet addicted ES. Moreover, mental health disorders, notably feeling frequently in depressive mood (OR = 1.9; p = 0.048), insomnia (OR = 1.24; p = 0.007) and low self-esteem (OR = 2.62; p = 0.003) were statistically associated with internet addiction.

Conclusions

Ranking at an alarming rate, internet addiction has been found to have a very strong relationship with insomnia and low self-esteem among ES, and at times it affected their social life and their relationship with their family.

Key messages

Internet addiction among engineering students. Insomnia and self-esteem among engineering students.