bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severe Mental Health Symptoms during COVID-19: A Comparison of the United Kingdom and Austria
Authors: Budimir Sanja , Pieh Christoph , Dale Rachel , Probst Thomas
Published: February 2021

This study evaluated severe psychological symptoms in the United Kingdom and Austria after four weeks of lockdown due to COVID-19. Two cross-sectional online surveys were performed with representative population samples according to age, gender, region, and education. Depressive symptoms were measured with the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), anxiety symptoms with the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7), and insomnia symptoms with the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). The sample size was N = 1005 for Austria (52% women) and N = 1006 (54% women) for the UK. In total, 3.2% of the Austrian sample and 12.1% of the UK sample had severe depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 ≥ 20 points; χ2(1) = 57.24; p < 0.001), 6.0% in Austria vs. 18.9% in the UK had severe anxiety symptoms (GAD-7 ≥ 15 points; χ2(1) = 76.17; p < 0.001), and 2.2% in Austria and 7.3% in the UK had severe insomnia (ISI; ≥22 points; χ2(1) = 28.89; p < 0.001). The prevalence of severe depressive, anxiety or insomnia symptoms was around three times higher in the UK than in Austria.
Evaluating Food Safety Compliance and Hygiene Practices of Food Handlers Working in Community and Healthcare Settings in Kuwait
Authors: Moghnia Ola H. , Rotimi Vincent O. , Al-Sweih Noura A.
Published: February 2021

Safe food handling and proper hygiene practices performed by food handlers (FHs) in catering establishments are fundamental elements in reducing foodborne diseases. This study aimed at assessing food safety knowledge and compliance of hygiene practices of FHs within food establishments (using a structured questionnaire). A cross-sectional study was carried out from May 2016 to March 2018 on FHs working in community and healthcare settings. A total of 405 FHs, including 44.9% and 55.1%, were working in community and healthcare settings, respectively. The majority, 84.7%, were males with a ratio of 5.5:1. Most of them, 84.4%, had a high school education and above. A greater number, 44%, of FHs were in the age bracket of 29–39 years. As high as 95.6% of them underwent a regular medical check-up. Unsafe attitudes were shown by 44.9%% who used the same hand gloves while handling raw meat and fresh food. Additionally, 42% went home with their uniforms. The hygiene assessment score was 95.8%. In general, FHs have adequate knowledge and compliance with food safety practices. It is recommended that regular and ongoing training on hygienic practices and proper food safety techniques must be given to all FHs to ensure food safety.
Simulation as a Training Method for Electricity Workers’ Safety
Authors: Bracco Fabrizio , Masini Michele , Glowinski Donald , Piccinno Tommaso , Schaerlaeken Simon
Published: February 2021

Background: Simulation is a useful method to improve learning and increase the safety of work operations, both for technical and non-technical skills. However, the observation, assessment, and feedback about these skills is particularly complex, because the process needs expert observers, and the feedback could be judgmental and ineffective. Therefore, a structured process to develop effective simulation scenarios and tools for the observation and feedback about performance is crucial. To this aim, in the present research, we developed a training model for electricity distribution workers, based on high fidelity simulation. Methods: We designed simulation scenarios based on real cases, developed, and tested a set of observation and rating forms for the non-technical skills behavioral markers, and we tracked behaviors based on non-verbal cues (physiological and head orientation parameters). Results: The training methodology proved to be highly appreciated by the participants and effective in fostering reflexivity. An in-depth analysis of physiological indexes and behaviors compliant to safety procedures revealed that breath rate and heart rate patterns commonly related with mindful and relaxed states were correlated with compliant behaviors, and patterns typical of stress and anxiety were correlated with non-compliant behaviors. Conclusions: a new training method based on high fidelity simulation, addressing both technical and non-technical skills is now available for fostering self-reflection and safety for electricity distribution workers. Future research should assess the long-term effectiveness of high-fidelity simulation for electricity workers, and should investigate non-invasive and real-time methods for tracking physiological parameters.
Determinants of Consumers’ Online/Offline Shopping Behaviours during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Moon JiHyo , Choe Yunseon , Song HakJun
Published: February 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc in Korean society since the end of 2019. Unlike prior to the pandemic, when online and offline activities were conducted side-by-side, many aspects of consumers’ daily lives are only conducted online, especially shopping and meetings. This study analysed the characteristics of consumers who have used offline shopping channels during the pandemic. In addition, participants were asked how often they will use online and offline shopping channels after society stabilizes from COVID-19 in order to analyse what determinants will be used to select either online or offline shopping channels after the pandemic. This study will contribute to provide a deeper understanding of the consumption patterns of consumers (online vs. offline) during times of deep external impact, such as a pandemic.
Association between Vitamin D Receptor Polymorphisms (BsmI and FokI) and Glycemic Control among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Zakaria Wan Nur Amalina , Mohd Yunus Nazihah , Yaacob Najib Majdi , Omar Julia , Wan Mohamed Wan Mohd Izani , Sirajudeen K. N. S. , Tuan Ismail Tuan Salwani
Published: February 2021

(1) Background: Several studies have suggested that the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene plays a role in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) susceptibility. Nonetheless, the association between T2DM and VDR polymorphisms remains inconclusive. We determined the genotype of VDR rs1544410 (BsmI) and rs2228570 (FokI) polymorphisms among Malaysian patients with T2DM and their association with glycemic control factors (vitamin D levels, calcium, magnesium, and phosphate). (2) Methods: A total of 189 participants comprising 126 patients with T2DM (63 with good glycemic control and 63 with poor glycemic control) and 63 healthy controls were enrolled in this case–control study. All biochemical assays were measured using spectrophotometric analysis. VDR gene FokI and BsmI polymorphisms were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction and endonuclease digestion. (3) Results: Our findings revealed no significant differences in VDR FokI and BsmI genotypes between participants with T2DM and healthy controls. Moreover, no significant association was observed between both single nucleotide polymorphisms and glycemic control factors. Participants with poor glycemic control had significantly lower serum magnesium levels and significantly higher HOMA-IR compared to the other groups. (4) Conclusions: The present study revealed that VDR gene BsmI and FokI polymorphisms were not significantly associated with T2DM.
The Smiles of Older People through Recreational Activities: Relationship between Smiles and Joy
Authors: Ohta Ryuichi , Nishida Megumi , Okuda Nobuyasu , Sano Chiaki
Published: February 2021

Recreational activities are found to increase people’s smiles, arising joy in older people, but there is limited research on this topic within the Japanese context. This cross-sectional study aimed to measure the quality and frequency of smiles in older people living in rural settings using a smile analysis application. The participants comprised 13 females aged over 65 years who lived in Unnan City, Japan, and regularly attended recreational meetings. In this study, the recreational activity that the participants joined was a game called Mattoss. A video camera captured the participants’ faces, while a smile assessment application assessed their facial expressions for smiles and joy. A total of 2767 smiles were recorded. For validity, we calculated the Spearman’s rho score between smile and joy, which was 0.9697 (p < 0.001), while for reliability, we determined the Spearman’s rho score for each participant, which exceeded 0.7 (p < 0.001). Surges of smiles were induced by one’s own mistakes, successes, and big mistakes in the game and by severe or mild judgments by the referee. High validity and reliability of smile evaluation were demonstrated. The study found that smiling increased during recreational activities. Therefore, recreational activities can be encouraged for older people living in rural communities.
Impact of Environmental Moral Education on Pro-Environmental Behaviour: Do Psychological Empowerment and Islamic Religiosity Matter?
Authors: Begum Abida , Jingwei Liu , Haider Maqsood , Ajmal Muhammad Maroof , Khan Salim , Han Heesup
Published: February 2021

In light of increasing concerns about global environmental problems, environmental moral education is assumed to have a significant influence on the pro-environmental behaviour of students. Within the past decade, several higher education institutes have acknowledged the importance of integrating sustainability into the educational curriculum to have a focused and explicit impact on society. The current study investigated the relationship between environmental moral education and pro-environmental behaviour while drawing upon insights from the conservation of resource theory. The relationship among the aforementioned variables was studied for the mediating role of psychological empowerment and the moderating effect of Islamic religiosity. Data were collected from 429 university students with a cross-sectional approach. The data were analysed using “structural equation modelling” and “PROCESS” analytical techniques. The results of the study followed the predicted conceptual model, that is, environmental moral education was positively related to pro-environmental behaviour. Furthermore, psychological empowerment partially mediated the aforementioned relationship, while Islamic religiosity moderated the relationships between environmental moral education and pro-environmental behaviour as well as between environmental moral education and psychological empowerment. These findings reinforce the importance of environmental moral education and Islamic religiosity in understanding the Muslim student’s ecological behaviours.
A Novel IoT Based Positioning and Shadowing System for Dementia Training
Authors: Hung Lun-Ping , Huang Weidong , Shih Jhih-Yu , Liu Chien-Liang
Published: February 2021

A rapid increase in the number of patients with dementia, particularly memory decline or impairment, has led to the loss of self-care ability in more individuals and increases in medical and social costs. Numerous studies, and clinical service experience, have revealed that the intervention of nonpharmacological management for people with dementia is effective in delaying the degeneration caused by dementia. Due to recent rapid developments in information and communications technology, many innovative research and development and cross-domain applications have been effectively used in the dementia care environment. This study proposed a new short-term memory support and cognitive training application technology, a “positioning and shadowing system,” to delay short-term memory degeneration in dementia. Training courses that integrate physical and digital technologies for the indoor location of patients with dementia were constructed using technologies such as Bluetooth Low Energy, fingerprint location algorithm, and short-range wireless communication. The Internet of Things was effectively applied to a clinical training environment for short-term memory. A pilot test verified that the results demonstrated learning effects in cognitive training and that the system can assist medical personnel in training and nursing work. Participants responded with favorable feedback regarding course satisfaction and system usability. This study can be used as a reference for future digital smart cognitive training that allows observation of the performance of patients with dementia in activities of daily living.
A Multimodal Intervention for Prevention of Overweight and Obesity in Schoolchildren. A Protocol Study “PREVIENE-CÁDIZ”
Authors: Aragón-Martín Rubén , Gómez-Sánchez María del Mar , Jiménez-Pavón David , Martínez-Nieto José Manuel , Schwarz-Rodríguez Mónica , Segundo-Iglesias Carmen , Novalbos-Ruiz José Pedro , Santi-Cano María José , Castro-Piñero José , Lineros-González Carmen , Hernán-García Mariano , Rodríguez-Martín Amelia
Published: February 2021

This paper describes the protocol for a study designed to address the high prevalence (40%) of childhood overweight and obesity in the province of Cádiz, Spain, as a reflection of what is happening worldwide. It is widely known that children who suffer from childhood obesity have a higher risk of developing chronic diseases in adulthood. This causes a decrease in the quality of life and an increase in health spending. In this context, it is necessary to intervene promoting healthy lifestyle habits from an early stage. The objective of this project will be to evaluate the effectiveness of a multimodal intervention (individual, school and family) called “PREVIENE-CÁDIZ” [CADIZ-PREVENT]. The intervention will be focused mainly on diet, physical activity, sedentary lifestyle and sleep, to prevent overweight and obesity in schoolchildren from 8 to 9 years old in the province of Cádiz. It will consist of a 10-session education program carried out in the classroom by the teachers. In addition, children will be assigned two workbooks, one to work on in class and the other at home with parents. A workshop aimed at parents will be included to help teach them how to obtain healthier lifestyle habits. The proposed study will involve a quasi-experimental design with a control group.
Participation Restrictions among Children and Young Adults with Acquired Brain Injury in a Pediatric Outpatient Rehabilitation Cohort: The Patients’ and Parents’ Perspective
Authors: Allonsius Florian , de Kloet Arend , Bedell Gary , van Markus-Doornbosch Frederike , Rosema Stefanie , Meesters Jorit , Vliet Vlieland Thea , van der Holst Menno
Published: February 2021

Improving participation is an important aim in outpatient rehabilitation treatment. Knowledge regarding participation restrictions in children and young adults with acquired brain injury (ABI) is scarce and little is known regarding the differences in perspectives between patients and parents in the outpatient rehabilitation setting. The aims are to describe participation restrictions among children/young adults (5–24 years) with ABI and investigating differences between patients’ and parents’ perspectives. At admission in 10 rehabilitation centers, patients and parents were asked to complete the Child and Adolescent Scale of Participation (CASP; score 0–100; lower score = more restrictions) and injury/patient/family-related questions. CASP scores were categorized (full/somewhat-limited/limited/very-limited participation). Patient/parent-reported outcomes were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. 223 patients and 245 parents participated (209 paired-samples). Median patients’ age was 14 years (IQR; 11–16), 135 were female (52%), 195 had traumatic brain injury (75%). The median CASP score reported by patients was 82.5 (IQR: 67.5–90) and by parents 91.3 (IQR: 80.0–97.5) (difference = p < 0.05). The score of 58 patients (26%) and 25 parents (10%) was classified as ‘very-limited’. Twenty-six percent of children and young adults referred for rehabilitation after ABI had “very-limited” participation. Overall, parents rated their child’s participation better than patients themselves. Quantifying participation restrictions after ABI and considering both perspectives is important for outpatient rehabilitation treatment.
Could Physical Therapy Interventions Be Adopted in the Management of Critically Ill Patients with COVID-19? A Scoping Review
Authors: Bernal-Utrera Carlos , Anarte-Lazo Ernesto , Gonzalez-Gerez Juan Jose , De-La-Barrera-Aranda Elena , Saavedra-Hernandez Manuel , Rodriguez-Blanco Cleofas
Published: February 2021

As part of COVID-19 consequences, it has been estimated that 5% of patients affected by this disease will require admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), and physical therapy techniques have been implemented in patients with other conditions admitted to ICU. The aim of the present study is to summarize all the available information about the implementation of physical therapy management in critically ill patients. From three clinical guidelines already published, we performed a search in PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and CINAHL, including systematic reviews, clinical guidelines, and randomized controlled trials, among others. Data extraction was performed independently by two reviewers. Quality assessment was developed through the AMSTAR-2 tool and PEDro Scale. A narrative synthesis was performed and 29 studies were included. The information extracted has been classified into four folders: ICU environment in COVID-19 (security aspects and management of the patient), respiratory physiotherapy (general indications and contraindications, spontaneously breathing and mechanically ventilated patient approaches), positional treatment, and exercise therapy (safety aspects and progression). The implementation of physiotherapy in patients affected with COVID-19 admitted to the ICU is a necessary strategy that prevents complications and contributes to the stabilization of patients in critical periods, facilitating their recovery.
Halogenated Volatile Organic Compounds in Water Samples and Inorganic Elements Levels in Ores for Characterizing a High Anthropogenic Polluted Area in the Northern Latium Region (Italy)
Authors: Russo Mario Vincenzo , Notardonato Ivan , Rosada Alberto , Ianiri Giuseppe , Avino Pasquale
Published: February 2021

This paper shows a characterization of the organic and inorganic fraction of river waters (Tiber and Marta) and ores/soil samples collected in the Northern Latium region of Italy for evaluating the anthropogenic/natural source contribution to the environmental pollution of this area. For organic compounds, organochloride volatile compounds in Tiber and Marta rivers were analyzed by two different clean-up methods (i.e., liquid–liquid extraction and static headspace) followed by gas chromatography–electron capture detector (GC-ECD) analysis. The results show very high concentrations of bromoform (up to 1.82 and 3.2 µg L−1 in Tiber and Marta rivers, respectively), due to the presence of greenhouse crops, and of chloroform and tetrachloroethene, due to the presence of handicrafts installations. For the qualitative and quantitative assessment of the inorganic fraction, it is highlighted the use of a nuclear analytical method, instrumental neutron activation analysis, which allows having more information as possible from the sample without performing any chemical-physical pretreatment. The results have evidenced high levels of mercury (mean value 88.6 µg g−1), antimony (77.7 µg g−1), strontium (12,039 µg g−1) and zinc (103 µg g−1), whereas rare earth elements show levels similar to the literature data. Particular consideration is drawn for arsenic (414 µg g−1): the levels found in this paper (ranging between 1 and 5100 µg g−1) explain the high content of such element (as arsenates) in the aquifer, a big issue in this area.
Investigation of Changes in Saliva in Radiotherapy-Induced Head Neck Cancer Patients
Authors: Winter Christina , Keimel Roman , Gugatschka Markus , Kolb Dagmar , Leitinger Gerd , Roblegg Eva
Published: February 2021

The intact function of the salivary glands is of utmost importance for oral health. During radiotherapy in patients with head and neck tumors, the salivary glands can be damaged, causing the composition of saliva to change. This leads to xerostomia, which is a primary contributor to oral mucositis. Medications used for protective or palliative treatment often show poor efficacy as radiation-induced changes in the physico-chemical properties of saliva are not well understood. To improve treatment options, this study aimed to carefully examine unstimulated whole saliva of patients receiving radiation therapy and compare it with healthy unstimulated whole saliva. To this end, the pH, osmolality, electrical conductivity, buffer capacity, the whole protein and mucin concentrations, and the viscoelastic and adhesive properties were investigated. Moreover, hyaluronic acid was examined as a potential candidate for a saliva replacement fluid. The results showed that the pH of radiation-induced saliva shifted from neutral to acidic, the osmolality increased and the viscoelastic properties changed due to a disruption of the mucin network and a change in water secretion from the salivary glands. By adopting an aqueous 0.25% hyaluronic acid formulation regarding the lost properties, similar adhesion characteristics as in healthy, unstimulated saliva could be achieved.
Development International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Core Set for Post Total Knee Replacement Rehabilitation Program: Delphi-Based Consensus Study in Taiwan
Authors: Huang Shih-Wei , Chen Yi-Wen , Escorpizo Reuben , Liao Chun-De , Liou Tsan-Hon
Published: February 2021

Osteoarthritis is one of the leading causes of disability. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a surgical intervention for patients with severe osteoarthritis. Post TKA rehabilitation is crucial for improving patient’s quality of life. However, traditional rehabilitation has only focused on physical function; a systemic analysis of other dimensions such as social participation and environmental factors of post TKA rehabilitation is lacking. The aim of this study was to develop a core set from the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) to create a comprehensive rehabilitation program for patients with osteoarthritis post TKA. Before the Delphi-based consensus process, a literature review process was performed for related ICF categories selection. We used a three-round Delphi-based consensus among 20 physical therapists with orthopedic rehabilitation expertise in a university-based hospital. A five-point Likert scale was used to rate the importance of each item. The consensus of ratings was analyzed using Spearman’s rho and semi-interquartile range indices. The ICF core set for post TKA rehabilitation was determined based on a high level of consensus and a mean score of ≥4.0 in the third Delphi-based consensus round. The ICF core set comprised 32 categories, with 13 regarding body function, four regarding body structures, nine regarding activities and participation, four regarding environmental factors, and two regarding personal factors. Our ICF core set for post TKA rehabilitation can provide information on effective rehabilitation strategies and goal setting for patients post TKA. However, further validation and feasibility assessments are warranted.
Measuring Activities of Daily Living in Stroke Patients with Motion Machine Learning Algorithms: A Pilot Study
Authors: Chen Pin-Wei , Baune Nathan A. , Zwir Igor , Wang Jiayu , Swamidass Victoria , Wong Alex W.K.
Published: February 2021

Measuring activities of daily living (ADLs) using wearable technologies may offer higher precision and granularity than the current clinical assessments for patients after stroke. This study aimed to develop and determine the accuracy of detecting different ADLs using machine-learning (ML) algorithms and wearable sensors. Eleven post-stroke patients participated in this pilot study at an ADL Simulation Lab across two study visits. We collected blocks of repeated activity (“atomic” activity) performance data to train our ML algorithms during one visit. We evaluated our ML algorithms using independent semi-naturalistic activity data collected at a separate session. We tested Decision Tree, Random Forest, Support Vector Machine (SVM), and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) for model development. XGBoost was the best classification model. We achieved 82% accuracy based on ten ADL tasks. With a model including seven tasks, accuracy improved to 90%. ADL tasks included chopping food, vacuuming, sweeping, spreading jam or butter, folding laundry, eating, brushing teeth, taking off/putting on a shirt, wiping a cupboard, and buttoning a shirt. Results provide preliminary evidence that ADL functioning can be predicted with adequate accuracy using wearable sensors and ML. The use of external validation (independent training and testing data sets) and semi-naturalistic testing data is a major strength of the study and a step closer to the long-term goal of ADL monitoring in real-world settings. Further investigation is needed to improve the ADL prediction accuracy, increase the number of tasks monitored, and test the model outside of a laboratory setting.
Enhancing Self-Esteem and Body Image of Breast Cancer Women through Interventions: A Systematic Review
Authors: Morales-Sánchez Lucía , Luque-Ribelles Violeta , Gil-Olarte Paloma , Ruiz-González Paula , Guil Rocío
Published: February 2021

Breast Cancer (BC) is the most common neoplasm in women worldwide, considered a global public health problem. Among BC women, some of the most common psychological symptoms in the adaptation to the disease are reduction in self-esteem and distorted body image (BI). Although there are numerous studies with the goal of promoting different psychological variables, BI and self-esteem are often separately observed despite their relationship and their importance in the process of the illness. Moreover, there have been no reviews that have synthesized the findings related to interventions aimed at enhancing both self-esteem and BI in BC women. Therefore, the objective of this review was to identify and examine the implemented interventions aimed at boosting both variables in this population. For this purpose, a systematic review was implemented following the PRISMA statement. A thorough search was performed on the following databases: Web of Science, PubMed, PsychInfo, PsychArticles, and Scopus. Among 287 records, only eight articles met the eligibility criteria. Interventions were grouped into three types according to their characteristics: Group therapies, Physical activity therapies, and Cosmetic and beauty treatments. The levels of effectiveness of the different interventions varied between them, and within each, in their impact on self-esteem and BI. More interventions focused on developing BI and self-esteem in this population are needed due to their ability to predict psychological functioning and quality of life of women with breast cancer.
Validation of the Bar-On EQ-i: YV (S) Inventory in Its Spanish Version: Gender-Based Invariance Analysis
Authors: Gilar-Corbi Raquel , Valdés María-Virtudes , Navas Leandro , Holgado-Tello Francisco Pablo , Castejón Juan-Luis
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this work is to verify the factorial structure and analyze the reliability of the Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQ-i): Youth Version (YV) (S) by evaluating emotional intelligence in a more extensive sample of Spanish adolescents than has been used to date, since this inventory has been employed in various studies but with a very limited number of participants. For this study, 5292 adolescents from all over Spain participated—male (51.2%) and female (48.8%) secondary education students between 11 and 19 years old, with an average age of 14.33. Data analysis included a Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), reliability analysis, and model invariance as a function of gender. The CFA confirms that the data empirically support the theoretical model and that the goodness-of-fit indexes are adequate. The reliability analysis of the inventory presents a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for the total scale of 0.76, and reliability indexes for each of the factors range between 0.63 and 0.80. The findings show that the model indicates invariance related to gender.
Age-Friendly Cities and Communities: State of the Art and Future Perspectives
Authors: van Hoof Joost , Marston Hannah R.
Published: February 2021

The number of older adults is increasing rapidly, and this demographic shift places an increased level of strain and tension on the various international healthcare and welfare systems [...]
Competency in Object Control Skills at an Early Age Benefit Future Movement Application: Longitudinal Data from the NW-CHILD Study
Authors: Pienaar Anita E. , Gericke Carli , Plessis Wilmarié du
Published: February 2021

The level of competency in object control skills (OCSs) during early childhood is considered to be a possible determinant of the successful generalization of these skills during later childhood. This study aimed to determine if an association exists between competency in object control skills during early childhood (6–9 years) and the application of these skills during later childhood (12 years). The NW-CHILD longitudinal study (2010–2016), included a baseline and two time-point follow-up measures in grades 1, 4, and 7 of South African children. A total of 374 participants (boys = 178, 47.59% and girls = 196, 52.41%) completed testing at all three time-points and were analyzed. The Test of Gross Motor Development, Second Edition, and the Canadian Agility and Movement Skill Assessment were used to determine associations between object control skill competency during early and later childhood by using descriptive statistics, Spearman rank order correlations, and stepwise regression analysis. The level of object control skill competency at 6 and 9 years, significantly influences the application of these skills at 12 years. A high overall and significant contribution of OCS (4.6%, p < 0.01) to the variance in the skills and time scores at 12 years; p < 0.05 were found. Competence in object control skills at an early age can provide a baseline from where opportunities for progression or transfer of skills can result in more advanced skillful executions which consequently can be considered to be a cornerstone of improved future physical activity and healthier lifestyles.
Individual Disaster Preparedness in Drought-and-Flood-Prone Villages in Northwest China: Impact of Place, Out-Migration and Community
Authors: Guo Chunlan , Sim Timothy , Su Guiwu
Published: February 2021

Rural communities are generally more vulnerable to natural hazards when compared to urban communities. Moreover, rural communities are diverse and unique in their place, population, agricultural production and culture, which make it challenging for different rural settings to prepare for disasters. There is a little comparison made about the individual disaster preparedness among rural communities with different geographic landforms. In this study, we examined the individual disaster preparedness of rural residents in three drought-and-flood-prone villages with different landforms (plains, loess plateau and mountains) via a cross-sectional self-report structured questionnaire survey conducted in Northwest China. We also adopted an ecological framework to examine the determinants of villagers’ individual disaster preparedness across different dimensions: place, individual sociodemographic factors, family socioeconomic status, hazard adaptations, community and neighbourhood influences. We found that place was a significant factor for disaster preparedness when controlling individual sociodemographic and family socioeconomic factors. The level of preparedness in the plains was higher than both mountains and plateau. Moreover, the villagers who had out-migrated to work reported a higher level of disaster preparedness than did local villagers. In addition, the community and neighbourhood played an important role in determining individual disaster preparedness. This research highlights the needs for tailored community-based disaster risk reduction programs to improve villagers’ knowledge and skills of disaster preparedness.
Two to Tango? The Dance of Maternal Authority and Feeding Practices with Child Eating Behavior
Authors: Zohar Ada H. , Lev-Ari Lilac , Bachner-Melman Rachel
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the relationship between maternal feeding practices and children’s eating problems. Mothers of 292 children aged 5.9 ± 1.1, 50% boys, reported online on parental authority, overt and covert control of the child’s food choices, child feeding practices, and their child’s problematic eating behavior. Structural equation modelling yielded a model with excellent indices of fit (χ(2)(52) = 50.72, p = 0.56; normed fit index (NFI) = 0.94; root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.001). The model showed that an authoritarian maternal authority style was associated with overt control, which was associated with maternal tendency to pressure children to eat and with maternal restriction of highly processed or calorie-rich snack foods. These, in turn, were positively associated with the child’s satiety response, food fussiness, and slow eating, and negatively with the child’s enjoyment of food. In contrast, a permissive maternal authority style was associated with covert control of the child’s eating, concern over the child being overweight, and the restriction of highly processed and calorie-rich snack foods, which were in turn positively associated with the child’s emotional overeating and the child’s food responsiveness. The model seems to tap into two distinct patterns of mother-child feeding and eating dynamics, apparently related to children with opposing appetitive tendencies.
Family Planning Uptake in Kagera and Mara Regions in Tanzania: A Cross-Sectional Community Survey
Authors: Massenga Joseph , Noronha Rita , Awadhi Bayoum , Bishanga Dunstan R. , Safari Oliva , Njonge Lusekelo , Kim Young-Mi , Roosmalen Jos van , van den Akker Thomas
Published: February 2021

In Tanzania, 27.1% of all women of reproductive age are currently using modern contraception and 16.8% have an unmet need for family planning. We therefore examined factors associated with family planning uptake after giving birth in two regions of Tanzania. The survey, which collected information beyond that collected in the Tanzania Demographic Health Survey, used a two-stage, stratified-cluster sampling design, conducted in April 2016 in Mara and Kagera regions in Tanzania. A total of 1184 women aged 15–49 years, who had given birth less than two years prior to the survey were included. Logistic regression mixed effect modelling was used to examine factors associated with family planning uptake. A total of 393 (33.2%) women used family planning methods and 929 (79%) required prior approval from their partners. Participation of men in utilization of maternal health care was low, where 680 (57.8%) women responded that their partners accompanied them to at least one antenatal care (ANC) counselling visit and 120 (10%) responded that their partners participated in family planning counselling. Women who did not want to disclose whether they had discussed family planning with their partners, strikingly had the highest percentage of using family planning methods after birth. Factors independently associated with family planning uptake included: having discussed family planning with the partner (aOR 3.22; 95% CI 1.99–5.21), having been counselled on family planning during antenatal care (aOR 2.68; 95% CI 1.78–4.05), having discussed family planning with a community health worker (CHW) (aOR 4.59; 95% CI 2.53–8.33) and with a facility health care worker (aOR 1.93; 95% CI 1.29–2.90), having primary or higher educational level (aOR 1.66; 95% CI 1.01–2.273), and being in union (aOR 1.86; 95% CI 1.02–3.42). Educational interaction with community and facility health workers, as well as having a supportive partner as facilitator increased uptake of family planning. This needs to be prioritized in regions with similar socio-cultural norms in Tanzania and beyond.
Dietary Intake and Mental Health among Saudi Adults during COVID-19 Lockdown
Authors: Alfawaz Hanan , Yakout Sobhy M. , Wani Kaiser , Aljumah Ghadah A. , Ansari Mohammed G. A. , Khattak Malak N. K. , Hussain Syed D. , Al-Daghri Nasser M.
Published: February 2021

The study aimed to explore the influence of the COVID-19 lockdown on the mental status and dietary intake of residents in Saudi Arabia. In this cross-sectional study, an online survey was conducted from 11 May to 6 June 2020 corresponding to almost two weeks during and after Ramadan (23 April–23 May 2020). The Patient Health Questionnaire was used to assess anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of anxiety, depression, and insomnia. The prevalence of anxiety, depression, and insomnia among the participants was 25.4%, 27.7%, and 19.6%, respectively. Participants aged ≥50 years with high income (≥8000 SAR) were at a lower risk of developing depression, whereas participants of the same age group with income 5000–7000 SAR were at high risk of developing anxiety. Students and master-educated participants suffer from median elevated depression and are required to take more multivitamins and vitamin D than others. Anxiety and depression were more common among married participants with low income. There is a wide range of Saudi residents who are at a higher risk of mental illness during the COVID-19 pandemic. Policymakers and mental healthcare providers are advised to provide continuous monitoring of the psychological consequences during this pandemic and provide mental support.
Relationship between Employment Type and Self-Rated Health among Korean Immigrants in the US: Focusing on Gender and Number of Years in the US
Authors: Jang Sou Hyun
Published: February 2021

Although Korean immigrants report worse self-rated health and a higher self-employment rate than other Asian immigrant groups, the relationship between their employment type and self-rated health is understudied. This study examines the relationship between employment type and self-rated health among Korean immigrants in the US. Survey data of 421 first-generation working-age (18–64 years old) Korean immigrants in the New York–New Jersey area were analyzed. The self-administrated survey questionnaire included 39 items (e.g., sociodemographic characteristics, self-rated health, and health insurance status). A logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between the dependent variable—self-rated health (e.g., bad/not bad vs. good/very good)—and independent variable—employment type (e.g., work at non-ethnic firms, work at co-ethnic firms, self-employed, and unemployed)—by focusing on differences regarding gender and number of years living in the US. Self-employed and unemployed Korean immigrants were less likely to report good health compared to those working in non-ethnic firms. After controlling for sociodemographic characteristics (age, gender, marital status, education, health insurance status, membership in any Koran association, religion, and English proficiency), the relationship between employment type and self-rated health remained significant among female and recent Korean immigrants. More worksite interventions by occupational health nurses that target self-employed Korean immigrants, especially women and recent immigrants, are necessary.
Definitions and Operationalization of Mental Health Problems, Wellbeing and Participation Constructs in Children with NDD: Distinctions and Clarifications
Authors: Granlund Mats , Imms Christine , King Gillian , Andersson Anna Karin , Augustine Lilly , Brooks Rob , Danielsson Henrik , Gothilander Jennifer , Ivarsson Magnus , Lundqvist Lars-Olov , Lygnegård Frida , Almqvist Lena
Published: February 2021

Children with impairments are known to experience more restricted participation than other children. It also appears that low levels of participation are related to a higher prevalence of mental health problems in children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD). The purpose of this conceptual paper is to describe and define the constructs mental health problems, mental health, and participation to ensure that future research investigating participation as a means to mental health in children and adolescents with NDD is founded on conceptual clarity. We first discuss the difference between two aspects of mental health problems, namely mental disorder and mental illness. This discussion serves to highlight three areas of conceptual difficulty and their consequences for understanding the mental health of children with NDD that we then consider in the article: (1) how to define mental health problems, (2) how to define and assess mental health problems and mental health, i.e., wellbeing as separate constructs, and (3) how to describe the relationship between participation and wellbeing. We then discuss the implications of our propositions for measurement and the use of participation interventions as a means to enhance mental health (defined as wellbeing). Conclusions: Mental disorders include both diagnoses related to impairments in the developmental period, i.e., NDD and diagnoses related to mental illness. These two types of mental disorders must be separated. Children with NDD, just like other people, may exhibit aspects of both mental health problems and wellbeing simultaneously. Measures of wellbeing defined as a continuum from flourishing to languishing for children with NDD need to be designed and evaluated. Wellbeing can lead to further participation and act to protect from mental health problems.
Population Health and Health Services: Old Challenges and New Realities in the COVID-19 Era
Authors: Sarría-Santamera Antonio , Yeskendir Alua , Maulenkul Tilektes , Orazumbekova Binur , Gaipov Abduzhappar , Imaz-Iglesia Iñaki , Pinilla-Navas Lorena , Moreno-Casbas Teresa , Corral Teresa
Published: February 2021

(1) Background: Health services that were already under pressure before the COVID-19 pandemic to maximize its impact on population health, have not only the imperative to remain resilient and sustainable and be prepared for future waves of the virus, but to take advantage of the learnings from the pandemic to re-configure and support the greatest possible improvements. (2) Methods: A review of articles published by the Special Issue on Population Health and Health Services to identify main drivers for improving the contribution of health services on population health is conducted. (3) Health services have to focus not just on providing the best care to health problems but to improve its focus on health promotion and disease prevention. (4) Conclusions: Implementing innovative but complex solutions to address the problems can hardly be achieved without a multilevel and multisectoral deliberative debate. The CHRODIS PLUS policy dialog method can help standardize policy-making procedures and improve network governance, offering a proven method to strengthen the impact of health services on population health, which in the post-COVID era is more necessary than ever.
The Association between Job Quality Profiles and Work-Life Balance among Female Employees in Korea: A Latent Profile Analysis
Authors: Choi Eun Young , Choi Seung-Hye , Lee Haeyoung
Published: February 2021

Women’s participation in society has been increasing; however, they often remain overloaded with housework, and this gender role difference can hinder their work-life balance in Korea. Therefore, this study classified latent profiles according to job quality indices for South Korean female employees and examined the characteristics of each profile and how they affect work-life balance. This study was a secondary analysis of data collected through the fifth Korean Working Conditions Survey in South Korea. The Bayesian information criterion, entropy, and the Lo-Mendell-Rubin adjusted likelihood ratio test were used to determine the number of latent profiles. Chi-square tests were conducted to understand the characteristics of each profile. Comparisons between work-life balance and the latent profiles were made using the Bolck-Croon-Hagenaars method. Female employees in South Korea were classified into five profiles: “high-flying”, “smooth”, ”footloose”, ”strict” and “manual”. The “footloose” profile showed the most positive work-life balance, and the “manual” profile had the highest level of work-family conflict. Therefore, policies and social supports should be created with the aim of improving the implementation of current strategies promoting work-life balance to better fit each working condition.
Lack of Seasonal Variations in Vitamin D Concentrations among Hospitalized Elderly Patients
Authors: Nowak Justyna , Hudzik Bartosz , Jagielski Paweł , Kulik-Kupka Karolina , Danikiewicz Aleksander , Zubelewicz-Szkodzińska Barbara
Published: February 2021

Background. Generally, most vitamin D in the human body (90–95%) is produced in the skin during exposure to sunlight. The effectiveness of this process depends on several biological and physical factors, e.g., age or latitude. Skin synthesis of vitamin D among elderly people is reduced. The aim of the study was to assess serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] seasonal variations in elderly patients hospitalized at the geriatric department. Methods. The study was carried out on 242 patients aged 60 years or older hospitalized at the geriatric department. The study group was categorized by four seasons as well as month. Results. The median (interquartile range) 25(OH)D concentration among all patients (n = 242) was 33.95 (26.96–45.18) nmol/L. There was no statistical significance in the median serum 25(OH)D concentration with regard to each of the four seasons: in the spring 32.95 (25.96–43.68) nmol/L, in the summer 38.69 (27.46–50.67) nmol/L, in the autumn 33.45 (27.08–44.18) nmol/L, in the winter 34.57 (23.46–43.93) nmol/L, (p = 0.48). Conclusions. Vitamin D deficiency was observed in all geriatric patients, irrespective of the season. The results of the study indicate no significant differences in median vitamin D concentration among the hospitalized patients across all four seasons. Even in the summer months, in our climate, it is fairly difficult for an elderly person to produce an adequate amount of vitamin D through the skin. Therefore, proper vitamin D supplementation is recommended and should be implemented in the elderly irrespective of the season.
Techniques for the Automatic Detection and Hiding of Sensitive Targets in Emergency Mapping Based on Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Qiu Tianqi , Liang Xiaojin , Du Qingyun , Ren Fu , Lu Pengjie , Wu Chao
Published: February 2021

Emergency remote sensing mapping can provide support for decision making in disaster assessment or disaster relief, and therefore plays an important role in disaster response. Traditional emergency remote sensing mapping methods use decryption algorithms based on manual retrieval and image editing tools when processing sensitive targets. Although these traditional methods can achieve target recognition, they are inefficient and cannot meet the high time efficiency requirements of disaster relief. In this paper, we combined an object detection model with a generative adversarial network model to build a two-stage deep learning model for sensitive target detection and hiding in remote sensing images, and we verified the model performance on the aircraft object processing problem in remote sensing mapping. To improve the experimental protocol, we introduced a modification to the reconstruction loss function, candidate frame optimization in the region proposal network, the PointRend algorithm, and a modified attention mechanism based on the characteristics of aircraft objects. Experiments revealed that our method is more efficient than traditional manual processing; the precision is 94.87%, the recall is 84.75% higher than that of the original mask R-CNN model, and the F1-score is 44% higher than that of the original model. In addition, our method can quickly and intelligently detect and hide sensitive targets in remote sensing images, thereby shortening the time needed for emergency mapping.