bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stress and Wellbeing during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed-Methods Exploration of Frontline Homelessness Services Staff Experiences in Scotland
Authors: Carver Hannah , Price Tracey , Falzon Danilo , McCulloch Peter , Parkes Tessa
Published: March 2022

Staff working in homelessness services often find the work rewarding yet challenging, and the sector experiences high levels of staff burnout and staff turnover. During the COVID-19 pandemic, staff working in these services faced particularly stressful working conditions. This study explored the experiences of stress and wellbeing among those working in frontline homelessness service roles during the early stages of the pandemic in Scotland. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 participants, 11 of whom completed the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). Qualitative data were analysed using Framework Analysis in NVivo, informed by the Revised Transactional Model of occupational stress and coping. MBI data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The COVID-19 pandemic positively and negatively impacted participants’ lives and roles. Organisational culture acted as a magnifying glass for pre-pandemic practices: for some, the pandemic brought teams and staff closer together, creating a better working environment. For others, it led to fragmentation and frustration. Participants discussed coping strategies and recommendations for the future to protect staff wellbeing. Quantitative data suggested that participants were not experiencing burnout, although some were at heightened risk. Future research should explore the longer-term impact of the pandemic on homelessness service staff outcomes.
Assessment of Volatile Compound Transference through Firefighter Turnout Gear
Authors: Aliaño-González María José , Montalvo Gemma , García-Ruiz Carmen , Ferreiro-González Marta , Palma Miguel
Published: March 2022

There is high concern about the exposure of firefighters to toxic products or carcinogens resulting from combustion during fire interventions. Firefighter turnout gear is designed to protect against immediate fire hazards but not against chemical agents. Additionally, the decontamination of firefighter personal protective equipment remains unresolved. This study evaluated the feasibility of a screening method based on headspace-gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS) in combination with chemometrics (cluster analysis, principal component analysis, and linear discriminant analysis) for the assessment of the transference of volatile compounds through turnout gear. To achieve this, firefighter turnout gears exposed to two different fire scenes (with different combustion materials) were directly analyzed. We obtained a spectral fingerprint for turnout gears that were both exposed and non-exposed to fire scenes. The results showed that (i): the contamination of the turnout gears is different depending on the type of fire loading; and (ii) it is possible to determine if the turnout gear is free of volatile compounds. Based on the latest results, we concluded that HS-GC-IMS can be applied as a screening technique to assess the quality of turnout gear prior to a new fire intervention.
Help Seeking of Highly Specialized Mental Health Treatment before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic among Health Professionals
Authors: Braquehais María Dolores , Gómez-Duran Esperanza L. , Nieva Gemma , Valero Sergi , Ramos-Quiroga Josep Antoni , Bruguera Eugeni
Published: March 2022

(1) Background: Ongoing specialized programs for health professionals (HPs) adapted their treatment services during the COVID-19 pandemic. (2) Methods: We conducted a retrospective observational study of medical e-records of HPs with mental disorders working in Catalonia that were consecutively admitted to the Galatea Care Program Clinical Unit. The sample (N = 1461) was divided into two periods: 21.5 months before (n = 637) and after (n = 824) 14 March 2020. (3) Results: There was a significant increase (29.4%) in the number of referrals to the specialized Clinical Unit during the pandemic, especially with respect to physicians compared to nurses. The percentage of HP women at admission and the clinical severity of the first treatment episode remained without changes before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The most prevalent main diagnoses also remained similar: adjustment disorders (41.5%), mood disorders (24.9%), anxiety disorders (14.4%), and substance use disorders (11.8%). (4) Conclusions: HPs, particularly physicians, more frequently sought voluntary help from specialized mental health programs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Future studies are needed to analyze the reasons behind this finding and the evolution of referrals to these types of programs after the COVID-19 outbreak.
The Impact of School Meal Programs on Educational Outcomes in African Schoolchildren: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wall Caitlin , Tolar-Peterson Terezie , Reeder Nicole , Roberts Marina , Reynolds Abby , Rico Mendez Gina
Published: March 2022

Malnutrition and hunger can lower a child’s ability to learn effectively. Many countries in Africa experience high rates of childhood undernutrition, and school feeding programs are a common tool used to address this challenge. A systematic review was conducted to evaluate the effect of school-provided meals on educational outcomes in preschool and primary school children. Specific outcomes of interest in this review included test scores, attendance, and enrollment rates. PubMed and Scopus were used for an electronic search of relevant studies. Studies included in this review were randomized and non-randomized controlled trials, prospective cohort studies, controlled before-after studies, and pre/post-test design studies published in the past 10 years in English in sub-Sahara Africa. Findings from the nine studies included in this review suggest a positive correlation between school feeding programs and educational outcomes. Although mealtime may reduce classroom time, the benefits of providing a meal outweigh the potential loss of learning time because hungry children may not learn as effectively. In conclusion, it is recommended that school meal programs be implemented and expanded. To improve general wellbeing and learning capabilities of children, school meals should be employed starting at a young age. More research on school feeding programs is needed concerning the preschool age group (2–5 years), as there is a limited amount of information in this area.
Correlation between Stress and Anxiety to Viral Epidemics (SAVE) and Burnout among Korean Dental Hygienists during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Lee Seul-Ah , Park Jung-Eun , Jang Jong-Hwa
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to investigate the correlations among Stress and Anxiety to Viral Epidemics (SAVE), job stress (JS), and burnout among Korean dental hygienists during the COVID-19 pandemic and to identify the moderating effect of JS. As a cross-sectional study, a self-reporting questionnaire was used to survey 204 clinical dental hygienists to measure the levels of SAVE, JS, and burnout, along with their demographic characteristics as the control variables. Pearson correlation analysis and hierarchical multiple regression analysis were performed to analyse the correlations among burnout, SAVE, and JS, including the moderating effect of JS. With education level and subjective health controlled, JS (β = 1.05, p < 0.001), SAVE (β = 0.69, p = 0.020) and the interaction between SAVE and JS (β = −0.93, p = 0.050) were identified as significant influencing factors of burnout. The adjusted explanatory power of the model was found to be 52.4%. In summary, both SAVE and JS were significant influencing factors of burnout among dental hygienists, while a moderating effect of JS was also identified. Therefore, it is necessary to create a work environment that can relieve SAVE and JS to reduce burnout among dental hygienists.
Development of a Smoke-Free Home Intervention for Families of Babies Admitted to Neonatal Intensive Care
Authors: Notley Caitlin , Brown Tracey J. , Bauld Linda , Boyle Elaine M. , Clarke Paul , Hardeman Wendy , Holland Richard , Hubbard Marie , Naughton Felix , Nichols Amy , Orton Sophie , Ussher Michael , Ward Emma
Published: March 2022

Neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) have a disproportionately higher number of parents who smoke tobacco compared to the general population. A baby’s NICU admission offers a unique time to prompt behaviour change, and to emphasise the dangerous health risks of environmental tobacco smoke exposure to vulnerable infants. We sought to explore the views of mothers, fathers, wider family members, and healthcare professionals to develop an intervention to promote smoke-free homes, delivered on NICU. This article reports findings of a qualitative interview and focus group study with parents whose infants were in NICU (n = 42) and NICU healthcare professionals (n = 23). Thematic analysis was conducted to deductively explore aspects of intervention development including initiation, timing, components and delivery. Analysis of inductively occurring themes was also undertaken. Findings demonstrated that both parents and healthcare professionals supported the need for intervention. They felt it should be positioned around the promotion of smoke-free homes, but to achieve that end goal might incorporate direct cessation support during the NICU stay, support to stay smoke free (relapse prevention), and support and guidance for discussing smoking with family and household visitors. Qualitative analysis mapped well to an intervention based around the ‘3As’ approach (ask, advise, act). This informed a logic model and intervention pathway.
The Problematic Role of Materialistic Values in the Pursuit of Sustainable Well-Being
Authors: Isham Amy , Verfuerth Caroline , Armstrong Alison , Elf Patrick , Gatersleben Birgitta , Jackson Tim
Published: March 2022

Strong materialistic values help to maintain consumer capitalism, but they can have negative consequences for individual well-being, for social equity and for environmental sustainability. In this paper, we add to the existing literature on the adverse consequences of materialistic values by highlighting their negative association with engagement in attitudes and actions that support the achievement of sustainable well-being. To do this, we explore the links between materialistic values and attitudes towards sufficiency (consuming “just enough”) as well as mindfulness (non-judgmental awareness of the present moment) and flow (total immersion in an activity), which have all been linked to increased well-being and more sustainable behaviours. We present results from three correlational studies that examine the association between materialistic values and sufficiency attitudes (Study 1, n = 310), a multi-faceted measure of mindfulness (Study 2, n = 468) and the tendency to experience flow (Study 3, n = 2000). Results show that materialistic values were negatively associated with sufficiency attitudes, mindfulness, and flow experiences. We conclude with practical considerations and suggest next steps for tackling the problematic aspects of materialism and encouraging the development of sustainable well-being.
Short-Term Effects of Low-Fat Chocolate Milk on Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness and Performance in Players on a Women’s University Badminton Team
Authors: Molaeikhaletabadi Maryam , Bagheri Reza , Hemmatinafar Mohammad , Nemati Javad , Wong Alexei , Nordvall Michael , Namazifard Maryam , Suzuki Katsuhiko
Published: March 2022

This study investigated the short-term effects of low-fat chocolate milk (LFCM) consumption on delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and performance in female badminton players. Seven female badminton players (23 ± 1 years; height: 163.8 ± 4.1 cm; body mass: 58.7 ± 0.9 kg) were randomly assigned to 1 week of LFCM (500 mL) or placebo (water, 500 mL) consumption in a crossover design. Participants consumed LFCM or water immediately after each training session during the 1-week intervention. Performance variables (aerobic power, anaerobic power, agility, explosive power, and maximum handgrip strength) were assessed at two separate time points: pre and post-intervention (after 1 week). In addition, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was used to assess DOMS before, immediately after, and at 24 and 48 h after each training session. There were significant time effects for aerobic power, upper body explosive power, minimum anaerobic power, and time to exhaustion (TTE), which significantly increased after LFCM consumption (p < 0.05). Moreover, relative and maximum lower body power significantly (p < 0.05) increased, while rating of perceived exertion (RPE) as well as DOMS in lower extremity muscles immediately after exercise significantly decreased after LFCM consumption compared to placebo (p < 0.05). There were no significant changes in maximum anaerobic power, agility, and maximum handgrip strength (p > 0.05). LFCM, as a post-exercise beverage, may help speed recovery in female badminton players leading to increased aerobic, anaerobic, and strength performance indices, increased TTE, and decreased muscle soreness and RPE.
Needs and Needs Communication of Nursing Home Residents with Depressive Symptoms: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Schweighart Roxana , Klemmt Malte , Neuderth Silke , Teti Andrea
Published: March 2022

Nursing home residents are affected by depressive symptoms more often than elders living at home. There is a correlation between unmet needs and depression in nursing home residents, while met needs positively correlate with greater satisfaction and well-being. The study aims to examine the needs of nursing home residents with depressive symptoms and the communication of those needs, as no previous study has explicitly addressed the needs of this group of people and the way they are communicated. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 11 residents of three nursing homes and analyzed them using content-structuring content analysis. The residents reported diverse needs, assigned to 12 categories. In addition, barriers such as health impairments prevented the fulfillment of needs. As to the communication of needs, various interlocutors, facilitators, and barriers were identified. The findings reveal that residents can express their needs and are more likely to do so if the interlocutors are patient and take them seriously. However, lack of confidants, missing or non-functioning communication tools, impatience and perceived lack of understanding on the part of caregivers, and residents’ insecurities limit communication of needs.
Problematic Internet Pornography Use and Psychological Distress among Emerging Adults in Malaysia: Gender as a Moderator
Authors: Tan Soon-Aun , Goh Yee Shan , Mohd Zaharim Norzarina , Gan Su Wan , Yap Chin Choo , Nainee Sarvarubini , Lee Ling Khai
Published: March 2022

Internet pornography use (IPU) refers to Internet-based sexually explicit materials that are ultimately used to elicit sexual feelings or thoughts. The accessibility of Internet pornography could lead to excessive exposure to pornographic messages, posing a risk to heavy users’ psychological health. This paper offers a preliminary understanding of the relationship between Internet pornography use and psychological distress among emerging adults and the moderating role of gender in the association. This cross-sectional study has taken a purposive sampling approach to recruit 144 emerging adult pornography users via the online survey method. The results indicated that males reported having more problematic Internet pornography use, and there were no gender differences in psychological distress. Meanwhile, gender is a significant moderator between Internet pornography use and psychological distress. The females were found to be more psychologically affected by their problematic Internet pornography use than the males. Overall, this study has provided a novel finding of the moderating role of gender in problematic Internet pornography use and psychological distress in the Malaysian context. This study also calls for a gender-focused sexual health programme for Malaysian emerging adults. Furthermore, the scores of problematic IPU in this study raise a concern over the effectiveness of current sex education in Malaysia. The scores may highlight the need to provide education targeting Internet pornography use.
HBM4EU Chromates Study: Determinants of Exposure to Hexavalent Chromium in Plating, Welding and Other Occupational Settings
Authors: Viegas Susana , Martins Carla , Bocca Beatrice , Bousoumah Radia , Duca Radu Corneliu , Galea Karen S. , Godderis Lode , Iavicoli Ivo , Janasik Beata , Jones Kate , Leese Elizabeth , Leso Veruscka , Ndaw Sophie , van Nieuwenhuyse An , Poels Katrien , Porras Simo P. , Ruggieri Flavia , Silva Maria João , Verdonck Jelle , Wasowicz Wojciech , Scheepers Paul T. J. , Santonen Tiina ,   HBM4EU Chromates Study Team
Published: March 2022

Work-related exposures in industrial processing of chromate (chrome plating, surface treatment and welding) raise concern regarding the health risk of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)). In this study, performed under the HBM4EU project, we focused on better understanding the determinants of exposure and recognising how risk management measures (RMMs) contribute to a reduction in exposure. HBM and occupational hygiene data were collected from 399 workers and 203 controls recruited in nine European countries. Urinary total chromium (U-Cr), personal inhalable and respirable dust of Cr and Cr(VI) and Cr from hand wipes were collected. Data on the RMMs were collected by questionnaires. We studied the association between different exposure parameters and the use of RMMs. The relationship between exposure by inhalation and U-Cr in different worker groups was analysed using regression analysis and found a strong association. Automatisation of Cr electroplating dipping explained lower exposure levels in platers. The use of personal protective equipment resulted in lower U-Cr levels in welding, bath plating and painting. An effect of wearing gloves was observed in machining. An effect of local exhaust ventilation and training was observed in welding. Regression analyses showed that in platers, exposure to air level of 5 µg/m3 corresponds to U-Cr level of 7 µg/g creatinine. In welders, the same inhalation exposure resulted in lower U-Cr levels reflecting toxicokinetic differences of different chromium species.
Maternal and Fetal Outcomes among Pregnant Women with Diabetes
Authors: Gojnic Miroslava , Todorovic Jovana , Stanisavljevic Dejana , Jotic Aleksandra , Lukic Ljiljana , Milicic Tanja , Lalic Nebojsa , Lalic Katarina , Stoiljkovic Milica , Stanisavljevic Tamara , Stefanovic Aleksandar , Stefanovic Katarina , Vrzic-Petronijevic Svetlana , Petronijevic Milos , Terzic-Supic Zorica , Macura Maja , Perovic Milan , Babic Sandra , Piperac Pavle , Jovanovic Marija , Parapid Bijana , Doklestic Krisitna , Cerovic Radmila , Djurasevic Sinisa , Dugalic Stefan
Published: March 2022

The aim of this study was to examine the differences in pregnancy complications, delivery characteristics, and neonatal outcomes between women with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). This study included all pregnant women with diabetes in pregnancy in Belgrade, Serbia, between 2010 and 2020. The total sample consisted of 6737 patients. In total, 1318 (19.6%) patients had T1DM, 138 (2.0%) had T2DM, and 5281 patients (78.4%) had GDM. Multivariate logistic regression with the type of diabetes as an outcome variable showed that patients with T1DM had a lower likelihood of vaginal delivery (OR: 0.73, 95% CI: 0.64–0.83), gestational hypertension (OR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.36–0.62), higher likelihood of chronic hypertension (OR: 1.88, 95% CI: 1.55–2.29),and a higher likelihood ofgestational age at delivery before 37 weeks (OR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.18–1.63) compared to women with GDM. Multivariate logistic regression showed that patients with T2DM had a lower likelihood ofgestational hypertension compared to women with GDM (OR: 0.37, 95% CI: 0.15–0.92).Our results indicate that the highest percentage of diabetes in pregnancy is GDM, and the existence of differences in pregnancy complications, childbirth characteristics, and neonatal outcomes are predominantly between women with GDM and women with T1DM.
Effectiveness of Promotive and Preventive Psychosocial Interventions on Improving the Mental Health of Finnish-Born and Immigrant Adolescents
Authors: Peltonen Kirsi , Aalto Sanni , Vänskä Mervi , Lepistö Riina , Punamäki Raija-Leena , Soye Emma , Watters Charles , de Wal Pastoor Lutine , Derluyn Ilse , Kankaanpää Reeta
Published: March 2022

Background: Schools are considered natural environments in which to enhance students’ social–emotional skills and mental health in general, but they can be especially important for students with refugee and immigrant backgrounds. The current study tested the effectiveness of two school-based interventions in enhancing the mental health and wellbeing of adolescents of native, refugee, and immigrant backgrounds. It further analyzed the role of age, gender, daily stressors, and discrimination in affecting the interventions’ effectiveness. Methods: A three-arm cluster RCT with parallel assignment was applied among the 16 schools. Schools were randomized to three conditions of two active interventions and a waiting-list control condition. Students (n = 1974) filled in an online questionnaire at baseline before the interventions, after the interventions, and at follow-up an average of 9 months after the interventions. The effectiveness criteria were internalizing and externalizing problems, resilience, and prosocial behavior. Results: Interventions were generally not effective in decreasing mental health problems and increasing psychosocial resources. The expected positive intervention effects were dependent on students’ age and gender and exposure to socioeconomic daily stressors. Conclusion: Interventions enhancing teacher awareness and peer relationships at school should be carefully tailored according to the strengths and vulnerabilities of participating students, especially their daily stress exposure, but also age and gender.
Non-Fatal Occupational Injury Prevalence and Associated Factors in an Integrated Large-Scale Textile Industry in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Mulugeta Hailemichael , Birile Abyneh , Ketema Hilina , Tessema Muluken , Thygerson Steven M.
Published: March 2022

Occupational injuries disproportionately impact workers of the textile industry in low-income countries. The present study investigates the prevalence of non-occupational injury and its associated factors among workers in an integrated textile industry in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted from 17–26 May 2021. A total of 311 workers were eligible for participation. The information was collected through an interview-administered questionnaire. The findings were presented with descriptive statistics and the relationship among variables was assessed with multi-variable analyses. A total of 291 (93.6%) participants were interviewed. The prevalence of non-fatal occupational injury was 11% [95% CI: 7.7–15.5] in the past 12 months. The hands and fingers were the most affected body parts. Male gender [AOR: 3.40; 95% CI (1.13–10.5)], the age group of 18–29 years [AOR: 6.69; 95% CI (1.35–32.7)], sleeping less than seven hours in a night [AOR: 2.67; 95% CI (1.03–6.97)], machine-based jobs [AOR: 3.59; 95% CI (1.02–12.6)], the workplace housekeeping [AOR: 5.87; 95% CI (1.45–23.8)], and inadequate empowerment to prevent injury accident [AOR: 4.6; 95% CI (1.01–20.9)] were associated factors with occupational injury. The prevalence of non-fatal occupational injuries is lower than the previous studies among textile workers. As a result, improving workplace safety, changing sleeping habits, and empowering workers to participate in injury prevention should be a priority in intervention.
Esthetic Assessment following Ridge Augmentation, Late Implant Placement and Immediate Esthetic Reconstruction of the Atrophic Anterior Maxilla
Authors: Naishlos Sarit , Reiser Vadim , Zelikman Helena , Nissan Joseph , Masri Daya , Nassra Hiba , Chaushu Gavriel , Blumer Sigalit , Chaushu Liat
Published: March 2022

Purpose: Evaluate the esthetic outcome of ridge augmentation using cancellous bone-block allografts, late implant placement, and immediate loading in the atrophic anterior maxilla, by PES (pink esthetic score) and WES (white esthetic score) indexes. Materials and Methods: Retrospective cohort study. Inclusion criteria were bone loss of at least 3 mm horizontally and 3 mm vertically according to preliminary CBCT; ridge augmentation using cancellous bone-block allografts; six months later the implant insertion and immediately loaded. PES-WES index was used for esthetic assessment of soft tissues surrounding the final implant-supported prosthesis (ISP). Results: All twenty-five successive individuals were included. The mean follow-up was 12.1 ± 56 months (range, 42–90 months). The mean PES index and WES index were 7 ± 1.74 (range: 5–10) and 8.4 ± 2.12 (range: 5–10), respectively. The mean total combination of PES index and WES index (PES/WES) was 15.3 ± 2.85 (range: 12–20). All ISPs had an overall score >12 (the defined threshold of clinical acceptability). Conclusions: Ridge augmentation in the atrophic anterior maxilla using cancellous bone-block allografts and immediate loading allows a stable esthetic result of the soft and hard tissues over the years (follow-up of 42–90 months).
An Ecological Dynamics Approach to Understanding Human-Environment Interactions in the Adventure Sport Context—Implications for Research and Practice
Authors: Immonen Tuomas , Brymer Eric , Davids Keith , Jaakkola Timo
Published: March 2022

The last few decades have witnessed a surge of interest in adventure sports, and has led to an emerging research focus on these activities. However, recent conceptual analyses and scientific reviews have highlighted a major, fundamental question that remains unresolved: what constitutes an adventure sport. Despite several proposals for definitions, the field still seems to lack a shared conceptualization. This deficit may be a serious limitation for research and practice, restricting the development of a more nuanced theoretical explanation of participation and practical implications within and across adventure sports. In this article, we address another crucial question, how can adventure sports be better understood for research and practice? We briefly summarize previous definitions to address evident confusion and a lack of conceptual clarity in the discourse. Alternatively, we propose how an ecological perspective of human behaviors, such as interactions with the environment, may provide an appropriate conceptualization to guide and enhance future research and practice, using examples from activities such as freeride skiing/snowboarding, white-water kayaking, climbing, mountaineering and the fields of sport science, psychology and avalanche research and education. We draw on ecological dynamics as a transdisciplinary approach to discuss how this holistic framework presents a more detailed, nuanced, and precise understanding of adventure sports.
Underestimation in Reporting Excess COVID-19 Death Data in Poland during the First Three Pandemic Waves
Authors: Walkowiak Marcin Piotr , Walkowiak Dariusz
Published: March 2022

The issue whether official Polish COVID-19 death statistics correctly reflect the actual number of deaths is a contentious issue in public discourse and an important policy-wise question in Poland although it has not been the subject of thorough research so far. There had been clearly elevated excess mortality—5100 (death rate of 2.3 per 10,000) during the first wave, 77,500 (21.0 per 10,000) during the second one, and 48,900 (13.5 per 10,000) in the third. This study finds that during the second and the third pandemic wave, our data on excess mortality will match very well the somewhat belatedly officially reported COVID-19 deaths if we assume that only 60% of cases were officially detected. Based on principal component analysis of death timing, except for the age bracket below 40, where COVID-19 deaths calculated on the basis of our model explain 55% of excess mortality, for the remaining age groups, combined COVID-19 deaths explain 95% of excess mortality. Based on the share of excess mortality attributable to COVID-19 during the second wave, this infection in Poland caused the death of 73,300 people and not of 37,600 as officially reported. The third wave caused 46,200 deaths instead of the reported 34,700. The first wave was, indeed, as officially reported, very mild, and the number of excess deaths was too low to be used to calculate COVID-19 deaths directly. However, assuming that the detection rate remained comparable to the average in subsequent waves, we can set the number of deaths at 3500 instead of the reported 2100.
Low Occurrence of Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Swimming? Musculoskeletal Symptoms and Sports Participation in Adolescents: Cross Sectional Study (ABCD—Growth Study)
Authors: Maillane-Vanegas Santiago , Fatoye Francis , Luiz-de-Marco Rafael , Codogno Jamile Sanches , Santos Silva Diego Augusto , Pastre Carlos Marcelo , Fernandes Romulo A.
Published: March 2022

The purpose of this paper was to identify the association between the occurrence of musculoskeletal symptoms (MS) and sports participation in adolescents. The sample included 193 adolescents (11 to 17 years of age; 131 boys and 62 girls). For this cross-sectional study, participants were categorized into four groups: “no-sports”, “repetitive non-impact sports”, “high-impact sports”, and “odd-impact sports”. A questionnaire was used, which defined MS as pain or any musculoskeletal complaint that led to restriction of current normal activities. In the entire sample, 112 adolescents reported at least one episode of MS during the recording, representing 58% of the sample. Our findings highlight that adolescents regularly engaged in odd-impact sports, such as martial arts, report a higher occurrence of MS than swimmers and adolescents who do not participate in any physical activity.
Neighborhood Makes or Breaks Active Ageing? Findings from Cross-Sectional Path Analysis
Authors: Gan Daniel R. Y. , Cheng Grand H.-L. , Ng Tze Pin , Gwee Xinyi , Soh Chang Yuan , Fung John Chye , Cho Im Sik
Published: March 2022

Mental ill-health prolongs and complicates other chronic illnesses, which is a major public health concern because of the potential stress it places on health systems. Prevention via active aging and place-based interventions thus became increasingly important with population aging, e.g., through health promotion and age-friendly neighborhoods. However, how the targeted outcomes of these efforts are related remains unclear. This paper examined whether the relationship between active living and mental health or health-related quality of life is mediated by neighborhood cohesion. Cross-sectional data were drawn from n = 270 community-dwelling adults aged 50 and above in the Gerontology Research Program—Center for Ageing Research in the Environment (GRP-CARE) Survey. Path analysis showed that one can live actively for better mental health (Btotal = 0.24), but it is largely mediated by neighborhood cohesion (37%). Further examination of the factors of neighborhood cohesion showed that this mediation is explained by communal affordance (Bindirect = 0.05) and neighborhood friendship (Bindirect = 0.05). Additional study of the association between these mediators and factors of mental health revealed two psychosocial processes: (1) better community spaces (e.g., greenery and third places) support communal living (B = 0.36) and help older adults obtain emotional support (B = 0.32) for greater autonomy (B = 0.25); (2) spending more time outdoors enhances neighborhood friendship (B = 0.33) and interpersonal skills (B = 0.37), which in turn improves coping (B = 0.39). In short, the effects of active living on health are limited by one’s neighborhood environment. Neighborhood cohesion must be considered or it may stifle individual and policy efforts to age actively and healthily in urban environments. Context-sensitive implementations are required.
A Study on Online Intervention for Early Childhood Eating Disorders during COVID-19
Authors: Cimino Silvia , Almenara Carlos A. , Cerniglia Luca
Published: March 2022

Eating disorders are among the most common clinical manifestations in children, and they are frequently connected with maternal psychopathological risk, internalizing/externalizing problems in children, and poor quality of mother–child feeding exchanges. During the COVID-19 lockdown, in person assessment and intervention were impeded due to the indications of maintaining interpersonal distancing and by limits to travel. Therefore, web-based methods were adopted to meet patients’ needs. In this study N = 278 participants completed the SCL-90/R and the CBCL to examine the psychopathological symptoms of mothers and children (age of the children = 24 months); moreover, the dyads were video-recorded during feeding and followed an online video-feedback based intervention. Maternal emotional state, interactive conflict, food refusal in children, and dyadic affective state all improved considerably, as did offspring internalizing/externalizing problems and mothers’ depression, anxiety, and obsession–compulsion symptoms. This study showed that video-feedback web-based intervention might be employed successfully to yield considerable beneficial effects.
Summary Measures of Health Inequality: A Review of Existing Measures and Their Application
Authors: Schlotheuber Anne , Hosseinpoor Ahmad
Published: March 2022

Measuring and monitoring health inequalities is key to achieving health equity. While disaggregated data are commonly used to assess differences in health between different population subgroups, summary measures of health inequality also play a vital role in monitoring health inequalities. Building on disaggregated data, they quantify the level of inequality in a single number and are useful to compare inequality over time and across different health indicators, programmes and settings. We provide a comprehensive overview of existing summary measures of health inequality, including their definition, calculation, interpretation and application. The use of these measures is illustrated based on an example from the WHO’s Health Equity Monitor database using the WHO’s Health Equity Assessment Toolkit (HEAT) software. We discuss the strengths and limitations of different measures and provide guidance for selecting suitable summary measures for analysing health inequalities and communicating results. Summary measures of health inequality should form an integral part of health inequality monitoring to inform equity-oriented policies and programmes.
Social Capital as a Mediator and Moderator in the Association between Loneliness and Health, Israel as a Case Study
Authors: Baron-Epel Orna , Elran-Barak Roni , Donchin Milka
Published: March 2022

Loneliness has been associated with poor health. Social capital (SC) could possibly prevent the ill effects of loneliness. The study aims to assess the association of loneliness with physical and mental health in four different communities in Israel and study the impact of structural and cognitive SC on that association. A cross-sectional face-to-face survey with 4620 adults in four towns was conducted. The questionnaire included self-rated health (SRH), mental health (MH), loneliness, cognitive and structural SC and socioeconomic characteristics. Logistic regression analysis and mediation and moderation effects were calculated. Loneliness was associated with worse SRH (OR = 0.4–0.5) and worse MH (OR = 2.0–10). Both SC variables were associated with health. However, towns differ in these associations. Structural SC serves as a significant mediator between loneliness and SRH in all towns and is a mediator between loneliness and MH in two towns. Cognitive social capital was a moderator between loneliness and MH in two towns. This study suggests that increasing SC could possibly compensate for loneliness and buffer its effect on health. The study reinforces the need for the performance of separate health profiles to assess possible interventions for each community, as not always can we generalize these results to all communities.
Frontal Lobe Functions, Demoralization, Depression and Craving as Prognostic Factors and Positive Outcomes of Patients with Heroin Use Disorder Receiving 6 Months of Methadone Maintenance Treatment
Authors: Chang Ting-Gang , Yen Ting-Ting , Hsu Wen-Yu , Chang Shan-Mei
Published: March 2022

Methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) is a well-established and effective treatment for heroin use disorders. Whether frontal lobe function and demoralization serve as suitable prognostic and outcome assessment factors remains unknown. A quasi-experimental study was conducted with a single-group repeated-measures design at a medical center and mental hospital in Taiwan. We enrolled 70 participants (39 completed treatments and 31 dropped out). Frontal lobe function, demoralization, depression, and craving at three time points were analyzed. There were differences between patients who completed the treatment (n = 39) and those who did not (n = 31). Thirty-nine patients completed the treatment (average age, 45.5 years; 89.7% men; average duration of heroin use, 27.21 years; MMT, 38.18 mg/day). Post-MMT (6 months), frontal lobe function, demoralization, depression, and craving significantly improved. Dropouts had higher frontal lobe function, lower demoralization, higher craving, younger age, and earlier onset age than patients who completed the pretest treatment. Clinicians should be aware of the severity of demoralization. Clinicians may select suitable patients for MMT by assessing frontal lobe function, demoralization, craving, age, and onset age. A 6-month course of MMT improved demoralization, frontal lobe function, depression, and addiction. Six months of treatment was more effective than 3 months. Suitable patient identification and continuous treatment are important in MMT.
An Early Warning System for the Differential Diagnosis of In-Hospital Acute Kidney Injury for Better Patient Outcome: Study of a Quality Improvement Initiative
Authors: Wu Ming-Ju , Huang Shih-Che , Chen Cheng-Hsu , Cheng Ching-Yao , Tsai Shang-Feng
Published: March 2022

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a syndrome with heterogeneous causes and mechanisms. An early warning system (EWS) for AKI was created to reduce the incidence and improve outcomes. However, the benefits of AKI-EWS remain debatable. Methods: We launched a project to design and create AKI-EWS for inpatients in our institute. Incidence of AKI and its outcome before and after the implementation of AKI-EWS were collected for analysis. Results: We enlisted a stakeholder map before creating AKI-EWS. We then started an action plan for this initiative. The diagnosis was automatic and based on the definition of Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO). The differential diagnosis of causes of AKI was also automatic. Users are to adjust the threshold of detection. After the implementation of this AKI-EWS, the incidence of AKI fell. The proportion of AKI > 4% was reduced significantly (47.7% and 41.6%, p = 0.010) in patients with serum creatinine measured. The proportion of AKI > 0.9% also dropped significantly (51.67% and 35.94%, p = 0.024) in all inpatients. Trends of AKI outcomes also showed improvement. The loading of consultation of nephrologists decreased by 15.5%. Conclusions: Through well-designed AKI-EWS, the incidence of AKI dropped, showing improved outcomes. The factors affecting benefits from AKI-EWS included high-risk identification (individual threshold detection), timely and automatic diagnosis, real-time alerting on electronic health information systems, fast self-diagnosing of the cause of AKI, and coverage of all inpatients.
The Effect of Carbon Emission Taxes on Environmental and Economic Systems
Authors: Tu Zhengge , Liu Botao , Jin Dian , Wei Wei , Kong Jiayang
Published: March 2022

Carbon dioxide is believed widely to be the major contributor to global warming. Policymakers worldwide are turning to tax policies in an effort to abate carbon emissions. China is the largest emitter of carbon emissions on our planet. The central government, as well as the local official, has introduced a series of environmental regulations, such as environmental protection tax and emissions trading system, to reduce carbon emissions and improve environmental quality. In the near future, the carbon emission tax is also expected to be implemented by the Chinese government. In order to analyze and predict the effect of the carbon emission tax on environmental and economic systems, we developed a four department dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model, which includes households, enterprises, the government, and the environment. The dynamic parameters were obtained using maximum likelihood estimation. In the comparative static-s analysis, we found that after the introduction of carbon emission tax, the level in environmental quality was substantially improved, whereas most economic variables were significantly reduced. Moreover, we used impulse responses functions to evaluate how one shock to the carbon emission tax affects the steady static values for these endogenous variables in our model. We found that the carbon emission tax shock has an instantaneous effect on the majority of economic variables, but it does not affect the environmental quality immediately. In addition, we tested the Porter hypothesis and found no evidence suggesting the statement regarding this hypothesis. Finally, we applied Bayesian estimation to assure our findings in this study, again.
Beliefs about Pain Control in Patients after Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Surgery—A Preliminary Study
Authors: Piotrkowska Renata , Sanecka Natalia , Mędrzycka-Dąbrowska Wioletta , Jarzynkowski Piotr
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Pain-control beliefs significantly influence the perception of disease and, therefore, may influence the treatment outcomes of surgical patients. The sense of control is related to the sense of agency and the ability to influence one’s own life and environment. This construct may be external or internal. The belief that pain control depends on internal or external factors can depend on many variables. This may be influenced by socio-demographic and clinical characteristics, as well as the source and cause of pain. The aim of the study was the assessment of the relationship between the intensity of postoperative pain and beliefs about pain control in patients after AAA surgery and assessment of the relationship between socio-demographic and clinical variables and beliefs about pain control in patients after AAA surgery. Materials and Methods: The research material consisted of 42 patients aged 57 to 85, hospitalized at the Department of Cardiac Surgery and Vascular Surgery of the University Clinical Center in Gdańsk. The research was conducted from March to September 2020. The study uses a survey technique based on a standardized research tool: the Polish version of the BPCQ (The Beliefs about Pain Control Questionnaire), the NRS (Numerical Rating Scale), and the author’s own questionnaire that allows for the collection of socio-demographic data. Results: The highest intensity of pain was observed in subjects with ruptured AAA H (2) = 6.19; p < 0.05 and subjects who underwent classic surgery Z = −2.95; p < 0.05 (non-parametric Mann–Whitney U test). Subjects with ruptured aneurysms are less convinced about the influence of internal factors on pain control H (2) = 5.26; p < 0.05. The respondents’ conviction about the influence of doctors on pain control increased together with their age, rHO = 0.38, p < 0.05. Conclusion: Pain intensity after surgery did not significantly correlate with beliefs about pain control. Patients with ruptured AAA are less convinced about the influence of internal factors on pain control. With age, patients have more confidence in their doctors than in themselves to control their pain.
Access to Healthcare Facilities and Women’s Healthcare Requirements in Urban Areas: A Case Study of Beijing
Authors: Zhang Yingyi
Published: March 2022

Access to healthcare facilities is an essential measure of the urban development of contemporary cities. Governments often budget huge sums to fulfill the healthcare demands of the population, however neglect to address requirements specific to women. This paper assesses the density, spatial distribution, and services of healthcare facilities to identify care requirements specific to women, and how their needs are—or could be—met. The analysis addresses the research question: What strategies will improve women’s access to healthcare and satisfy their healthcare requirements? Methods include a case study in the Yuetan Area of Beijing, field investigation, mapping, and questionnaires. The survey was carried out in November 2021 and January 2022 and involved 462 women residents in the Yuetan Area. Results indicate: (i) that, despite the total number of facilities meeting the standards recommended by the WHO, the spatial distribution of healthcare facilities is imbalanced; (ii) women’s healthcare encompasses both physical and psychological health. Optimizing accessibility to healthcare facilities can positively impact women’s health and well-being. Conclusions include insights regarding the relationship between access to healthcare facilities women’s healthcare requirements, as well as proposing strategies for improved healthcare facilities with a focus on an equitable and sympathetic society.
Smartphone Addiction Prevalence and Its Association on Academic Performance, Physical Health, and Mental Well-Being among University Students in Umm Al-Qura University (UQU), Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alotaibi Mohammad , Fox Mim , Coman Robyn , Ratan Zubair , Hosseinzadeh Hassan
Published: March 2022

Smartphone use can lead to smartphone addiction, which is a growing concern worldwide. However, there are limited studies about smartphone addiction and its impacts on university students in Saudi Arabia. This study aims to fill this gap. This is a quantitative study conducted among undergraduate students in Umm Al-Qura University (UQU), Saudi Arabia from May 2019 and February 2021. Study data were collected using both online and hard copy administered surveys. A self-administered questionnaire, Grade point average, Smartphone Addiction Short Version, and Kessler Psychological Distress scales were used to assess the outcomes. A total of 545 undergraduate students, mostly females, aged ≤ 21 years old and lived with large family sizes. More than half owned a smartphone for 5–8 years and the majority used their smartphone on average 6–11 h per day for social networking (82.6%), entertainment (66.2%) and web surfing (59.6%). Most of the participants were smartphone-addicted (67.0%). Logistic regression analysis showed that age ≤ 21, not gainfully employed, small family size and high family income were the main significant socio-demographic predictors of smartphone addiction. Smartphone-addicted participants were more likely to: have lower academic performance (GPA); be physically inactive; have poor sleep; be overweight/obese; have pain in their shoulder (39.2%), eyes (62.2%) and neck (67.7%) and have a serious mental illness (30.7%). This finding has significant implications for decision makers and suggests that smartphone education focusing on the physical and mental health consequences of smartphone addiction among university students can be beneficial.