bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interfacial Dynamics of Miscible Displacement of Shear-Thinning Fluid in a Vertical Channel
Authors: Zhang Yao , Rabenjafimanantsoa Andrianifaliana H. , Skadsem Hans Joakim
Published: January 2023

The displacement of a shear-thinning fluid by a denser and less viscous Newtonian fluid in a vertical duct is investigated using experiments and numerical simulations. We study how shear-thinning and increased viscosity contrast between the fluids affect the displacement. Our results show that the degree of shear-thinning significantly influences the development of interfacial patterns and the growth of perturbations. In the weakly shear-thinning regime, the displacement progresses as a stable displacement with no visible instabilities. Increasing the viscosity of the displaced fluids result in a Saffman–Taylor type instability with several finger-shaped channels carved across the width of the duct. In the strongly shear-thinning regime, a unique viscous finger with an uneven interface is formed in the middle of the displaced fluid. This finger eventually breaks through at the outlet, leaving behind considerably stagnant wall layers at the duct side walls. We link the onset of viscous fingering instability to the viscosity contrast between the fluids, and the stabilizing density difference, as expressed through a modified, unperturbed pressure gradient for the two fluids. Numerical simulations are performed with both an initial flat interface, and with a perturbed interface, and we find good qualitative agreement between experimental observations and computations.
Analysis of Akkermansia muciniphila in Mulberry Galacto-Oligosaccharide Medium via Comparative Transcriptomics
Authors: Li Erna , Li Shipei , Liu Fan , Li Qian , Pang Daorui , Wang Hong , Liao Sentai , Zou Yuxiao
Published: January 2023

Akkermansia muciniphila is a common member of the human gut microbiota and belongs to the phylum Verrucomicrobia. Decreased levels of A. muciniphila are associated with many diseases, so it is thought to be a beneficial resident of the intestinal mucosal layer. In this study, we found that different prebiotics promoted the proliferation of A. muciniphila, and mulberry galacto-oligosaccharide (MGO) had the greatest effect. We cultured A. muciniphila in a brian heart infusion (BHI) medium containing 5% galactooligosaccharides (GOS), mulberry polysaccharide solution (MPS), and MGO, and transcriptomic analyses were performed. The results revealed that, after 6 days of cultivation, the numbers of upregulated functional genes (based on Gene Ontology) were approximately 0.7 and 19% higher with MPS and MGO, respectively, than with GOS. Analysis using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes showed that, when A. muciniphila was cultured with MGO, genes that were upregulated were enriched in the carbohydrate metabolism, the metabolism of cofactors and vitamins, the energy metabolism, the amino acid metabolism, and the lipid metabolism. Upregulated genes included galM and pfkA in the galactose metabolism, and pgi, pfk, fbaA, tpiA, gapA, pgk, gpml, eno, pyk, and lpd in the glycolysis/gluconeogenesis pathway. Real-time quantitative PCR results were consistent with the RNA-Seq data. This work provides valuable knowledge which can be available for the functional application of A. muciniphila and MGO.
Quality Evaluation of Bread Prepared from Wheat–Chufa Tuber Composite Flour
Authors: Özcan Mehmet Musa
Published: January 2023

The oil amounts of breads were measured between 0.13% (control) and 4.90% (with 40% 6 chufa). The total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the breads enriched with chufa tuber flours (powders) were reported as between 37.42 (control) and 99.64 mg GAE/100 g (with 20% chufa) to 61.19 (control) and 120.71 mg/100 g (with 20% chufa), respectively. The antioxidant activities of the bread samples were recorded as between 0.20 (control) and 3.24 mmol/kg (with 20% chufa). The addition of chufa flour caused a decrease in L* values of breads with the addion of tigernut flour. Oleic and linoleic acid contents of the oils extracted from the bread samples enriched with chufa tuber powders were identified as between 61.88 (control) and 66.64% (with 40% chufa) to 14.84% (with 40% chufa) and 17.55% (control), respectively. As a result of the evaluation of sensory properties of breads made from pure wheat flour and composite flours containing 10%, 20%, and 40% chufa tuber flour, the best result was obtained in bread fortified with chufa powder at a concentration of 40%, followed by concentrations of 20 and 10% in decreasing order.
Sexual Satisfaction and Quality of Life in Cardiovascular Patients: The Mediating Role of Anxiety
Authors: Epifanio Maria Stella , La Grutta Sabina , Alfano Pietro , Marcantonio Salvatore , Piombo Marco Andrea , Ammirata Martina , Rebulla Eduardo , Grassi Silvia , Leone Simona , Clemenza Francesco , Girgenti Rosario , Lo Baido Rosa , Di Blasi Maria
Published: January 2023

Background: Cardiovascular diseases represent one of the most important problems for public health. Research indicates that elderly patients consider sexual satisfaction as a fundamental aspect of their quality of life and a better sexual function is related to higher general wellbeing. Objective: The main objective of this study was to investigate the mediating role of anxiety and depression in the relationship between quality of life and sexual satisfaction in cardiovascular (CVD) patients. Methods: The sample comprised 128 adult patients, males and females, hospitalized in a Cardiology Rehabilitation clinical center. To collect data, the following were used: a demographic information sheet, the left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) to evaluate cardiac function, cardiovascular diagnosis type, the HADS scale to evaluate anxiety and depression states, a test for sexual satisfaction evaluation (SAS) and the SF-36 survey to measure quality of life. Results: The results indicated that only SF-36 physical health is indirectly related to SAS through its relationship with anxiety. Conclusion: A mediating model was proposed to explore the underlying association between sexual satisfaction and quality of life. We recommend investigating perceived general health and sexuality as clinical indicators for therapeutic decisions and risk evaluation for the management of cardiovascular diseases.
Gio Ponti and Villa Namazee: (De)listed Modern Heritage
Authors: Mehan Asma
Published: January 2023

This article studies the architectural design and cultural significance of Villa Namazee, a modernist building designed by Italian architect Gio Ponti in Tehran. The study explores how the building, once a symbol of modernity and progress, has been neglected, delisted from the national heritage, and fallen into disrepair. Focusing primarily on the case of Villa Namazee in Tehran, Iran, as an example of Ponti’s projects in the Middle Eastern context, the second part of this paper aims to reconsider and re-narrate Gio Ponti’s project in Tehran. In this context, the article sheds light on the nationally and internationally prominent concepts, ideas, collaborations, and design elements of Gio Ponti’s project in Tehran. The paper argues for reevaluating our understanding of heritage and recognizing the importance of preserving modern architectural masterpieces such as Villa Namazee.
Comparative Analyses of Ripening, Texture Properties and Cell Wall Composition in Three Tropical Fruits Treated with 1-Methylcyclopropene during Cold Storage
Authors: Li Rui , Wang Ying , Li Wen , Shao Yuanzhi
Published: January 2023

Regulation of fruit ripening is one of the most important topics in postharvest storage. Effects of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) greatly depend on the responsiveness of fruit cultivar to this molecule. Although 1-MCP has been used in postharvest preservation of many fruit species, its effects on ripening process, including ethylene production, and softening of banana, mango, and papaya are still not very clear. In the present study, we comparatively investigated the effects of 1-MCP fumigation treatment (1 μL L−1 for 20 h) on ripening behavior and texture qualities of the three fruits during storage at 15 °C. Results showed that 1-MCP treatment not only suppressed the production but also delayed the peak points of ethylene in banana and mango. However, it only significantly delayed the emergence of peak, but didn’t suppress the production of ethylene in papaya. Meanwhile, 1-MCP treated papayas showed the lowest malondialdehyde (MDA) content, cell membrane permeability (CMP) and activities of polygalacturonase (PG) and cellulose (CX), accompanied by the highest firmness and protopectin content. Furthermore, 1-MCP treatment slowed down the changes of pulp cell structure in three kinds of fruit. Thus, the findings suggest that postharvest application of 1-MCP has potential in banana and mango fruits due to both prolonging storage-life and ensuring the texture quality, whereas it is not suitable for papaya fruit because of the abnormal softening and the poor texture.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Genes Involved in Responses of Eucalyptus to Gall Wasp Infestation
Authors: Pinsupa Suparat , Tongmark Keasinee , Aesomnuk Wanchana , Srikaewtung Kannika , Chakhonkaen Sriprapai , Summart Patcharaporn , Sangarwut Numphet , Pathaichindachote Wanwarang , Wanchana Samart , Ukokit Kittipat , Muangprom Amorntip
Published: January 2023

Leptocybe invasa is a gall wasp causing significant damage to Eucalyptus species. This study used RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with early L. invasa infestation in eucalyptus parents and their F1-progenies. A total of 14,648 significant DEGs were identified from U22-tolerant and C153-susceptible parents, and extremely tolerant and susceptible pools of their F1-progenies. A total of 324/632 and 182/205 DEGs specific for the tolerant group and the susceptible group were up-regulated, respectively. Expression analysis by qRT-PCR of the selected DEGs was comparable with the results of RNA-seq. Expression analysis of the selected genes using the top five progenies from each pool was consistent with that in the parents. Three genes (RCA, SUI1, GCN5) were up-regulated after infestation in all tested tolerant plants, suggesting their important roles in the tolerant phenotype. Using expression and STRING analysis, our results suggest that early response at three days after gall wasp infestation increased protein and terpenoid synthesis, and increased transportation of these molecules. In addition, wounding also increased photosynthesis and glycolysis. These processes involved the interaction of several plant hormones, such as JA, Auxin, and ABA. The information obtained from this study could be useful for future Eucalyptus breeding programs.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Hygiene in 2022
Authors:   Hygiene Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Nudging Interventions on Alcohol and Tobacco Consumption in Adults: A Scoping Review of the Literature
Authors: Nurchis Mario Cesare , Di Pumpo Marcello , Perilli Alessio , Greco Giuseppe , Damiani Gianfranco
Published: January 2023

Background: The World Health Organization identified alcohol and tobacco consumption as the risk factors with a greater attributable burden and number of deaths related to non-communicable diseases. A promising technique aimed to modify behavioral risk factors by redesigning the elements influencing the choice of people is nudging. Methodology: A scoping review of the literature was performed to map the literature evidence investigating the use of nudging for tobacco and alcohol consumption prevention and/or control in adults. Results: A total of 20 studies were included. The identified nudging categories were increasing salience of information or incentives (IS), default choices (DF), and providing feedback (PF). Almost three-quarters of the studies implementing IS and half of those implementing PF reported a success. Three-quarters of the studies using IS in conjunction with other interventions reported a success whereas more than half of the those with IS alone reported a success. The PF strategy performed better in multi-component interventions targeting alcohol consumption. Only one DF mono-component study addressing alcohol consumption reported a success. Conclusions: To achieve a higher impact, nudging should be integrated into comprehensive prevention policy frameworks, with dedicated education sessions for health professionals. In conclusion, nudge strategies for tobacco and alcohol consumption prevention in adults show promising results. Further research is needed to investigate the use of nudge strategies in socio-economically diverse groups and in young populations.
Heavy Metals in Groundwater of Southern Italy: Occurrence and Potential Adverse Effects on the Environment and Human Health
Authors: Triassi Maria , Cerino Pellegrino , Montuori Paolo , Pizzolante Antonio , Trama Ugo , Nicodemo Federico , D’Auria Jacopo Luigi , De Vita Sabato , De Rosa Elvira , Limone Antonio
Published: January 2023

This study reports the data on the contamination caused by heavy metals in the groundwater of the Campania Plain (CP) in Southern Italy. A total of 1093 groundwater samples were obtained from the following aquifers: coastal plains (GAR, VCP, VES, SAR, and SEL), volcanic districts (PHLE and VES), and carbonate massifs (MAS and LAT). In this study, the investigation depth ranged from 5 m (GAR) to 200 m (PHLE). The sequence of heavy metal content in groundwater samples was B > Fe > Al > Mn > Zn > Ba > Ni > As > Cu > V > Se > Pb > Cd. The heavy metal pollution index (HPI) and heavy metal evaluation (HEI) demonstrated that the study areas in which groundwater samples were sampled are not risk zones. Moreover, health risk assessment shows that hazard index (HI) values for heavy metals were found to be significantly low in groundwater samples. In non-carcinogenic risk evaluation for the adult group, the risk was low, whereas for children and infants, the risk was >1 for arsenic alone. Carcinogenic risk assessment (CR) was found lower for adults, children, and infants. The Jenks optimization method was used to evaluate the distribution of heavy metals in the groundwater of CP, and the principal component analysis technique (PCA) was employed to determine the source of heavy metals, and it was found that mixed sources (natural and anthropogenic) may be responsible for heavy metals presence.
Factors Associated with Prenatal Health Behaviors among Low-Income, Ethnic Minority Women
Authors: Urizar Guido G. , Murillo Joshua , Miller Karissa
Published: January 2023

Less than one-third of pregnant women in the U.S. meet prenatal nutrition, exercise, and stress management health behavior guidelines. Low rates of these prenatal health behaviors have been especially observed among low-income, ethnic minority women, placing them and their infants at a disproportionally higher risk for health complications. Yet, few studies have identified factors associated with these prenatal health behaviors in this population. This study examined whether certain demographic (e.g., ethnicity) and psychosocial characteristics (i.e., coping, stress, pregnancy-specific stress, and depression) were associated with prenatal nutrition (i.e., high-fat food and fruit and vegetable intake), exercise, and stress management health behaviors in 100 low-income, pregnant women (39% African American, 30% foreign-born Latinas, 15% U.S.-born Latinas, 10% non-Hispanic white, and 6% Asian American/Pacific Islander) in southern California using an embedded, mixed-methods, cross-sectional design. Results demonstrated that ethnic minority women who experienced more stress and used more maladaptive coping strategies (e.g., avoidance) were particularly at risk of consuming more high-fat foods and engaging in less exercise and stress management during pregnancy. Qualitative responses revealed women’s experiences with these prenatal health behaviors. These findings highlight the need for interventions and collaborative care models that target psychosocial factors in order to optimize prenatal health behaviors and health outcomes among ethnic minority women.
Association between Periodontal Condition and Fat Distribution in Japanese Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study Using Check-Up Data
Authors: Irie Koichiro , Yamamoto Tatsuo , Azuma Tetsuji , Iwai Komei , Yonenaga Takatoshi , Tomofuji Takaaki
Published: January 2023

Some studies have reported a significant association between periodontal condition and obesity status. We hypothesized that visceral fat area (VFA) and subcutaneous fat area (SFA) volumes might be correlated with periodontal condition. The purpose of the present cross-sectional study was to investigate the association between periodontal condition and fat distribution in Japanese adults. A total of 158 participants, aged 35–74 years, underwent a health check-up including fat distribution and oral examinations. All of the participants underwent magnetic resonance imaging to quantify VFA and SFA. Periodontal condition was evaluated using the periodontal pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level. The VFA volumes differed among the PPD score and clinical attachment level (CAL) code groups. On the other hand, no significant differences in SFA volume were observed among different periodontal conditions. Multiple regression analysis showed that VFA was positively correlated with a greater CAL (standardized coefficient β = 0.123, p = 0.009), but not with a greater PPD score. A larger VFA was positively associated with a greater CAL in Japanese adults, whereas no association was found between SFA and periodontal condition.
Patterns of Medication Management and Associated Medical and Clinical Features among Home-Dwelling Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study in Central Portugal
Authors: Dixe Maria dos Anjos , Pinho Joana , Pereira Filipa , Verloo Henk , Meyer-Massetti Carla , Pereira Sónia Gonçalves
Published: January 2023

Ageing is frequently associated with multimorbidity and polypharmacy. The present study aimed to identify the current medication management patterns and the profiles of home-dwelling older adults and to find any association with their conditions, including frailty and cognitive impairment. Within the scope of this cross-sectional study, 112 older adults living in the community were assessed via face-to-face structured interviews. Frailty, cognitive status, medication management and clinical and sociodemographic variables were evaluated. Descriptive and inferential statistics were calculated. The mean participant age was 76.6 ± 7.1 years, 53.6% of participants were women, and 40.2% of participants lived alone. More than half were classified as having frailty (58.9%), almost one-fifth (19.6%) presented with a moderate cognitive impairment had more than one disease, and 60.7% were polymedicated. No associations were found between polymedication and medication self-management, the use of over-the-counter medications, living alone, having a poor understanding of pharmacological therapy and/or pathology, or having more than one prescriber. Self-management was associated with age, the number of medications, frailty and cognitive status. Binary logistic regressions showed that cognitive impairment had statistically significant differences with medication management, having a poor understanding of pharmacological therapy and/or pathology, having one prescriber and the use of medications not prescribed by physicians. Interventions to prevent medication-related problems in home-dwelling older adults are recommended.
Changes in Sleep Satisfaction of Korean Adolescents in the Pre- and Post-COVID-19 Eras and Its Effects on Health Behaviors
Authors: Lee Dahyeon , Lee Kang-Sook , Kim Sejin , Chung Woohyun , Jegal Jeung , Han Hyeonjung
Published: January 2023

Adolescence is a crucial period for cognitive and psychological development and physical maturation. During this period, hormonally influenced circadian rhythms lead to reduced hours of sleep, and it is important to determine whether sleep quality is sufficient for fatigue relief. Non-face-to-face classes during coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) potentially affected adolescents’ sleep quality, psychological state, amount of physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and internet (smartphone) use. We investigated the effects of the COVID-19 situation on adolescents’ sleep satisfaction and its relation to the aforementioned factors. Data of 109,281 adolescents collected via an online survey, conducted from 3 June 2019 to 12 July 2019 and from 3 August 2020 to 13 November 2020, were analyzed. Health status comparison between the satisfactory and unsatisfactory sleep groups yielded significant results (odds ratio [OR] = 1.10, confidence interval [CI] = 1.04–1.17) for 2020. In both groups, perceived health was worse in 2019 than in 2020 (OR = 2.72, CI = 2.53–2.92). During COVID-19, non-face-to-face classes increased adolescents’ sleep satisfaction. Their psychological state improved, while amount of physical activity (muscle-strengthening exercises), average weight, and internet (smartphone) use increased. Smoking and alcohol consumption decreased.
Complications Associated with Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters (PICC) in People Undergoing Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT) in Home Hospitalization
Authors: Garcés-Carrasco Ana María , Santacatalina-Roig Enric , Carretero-Márquez Carlos , Martínez-Sabater Antonio , Balaguer-López Evelin
Published: January 2023

Introduction: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic generated the need to keep immunosuppressed patients away from hospital institutions for as long as possible. This in turn stimulated the implementation of a home hospitalization model for autologous hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT). Purpose: To analyze whether there are significant differences in post-transplantation complications related to catheters observed in patients treated in the home-transplant care modality compared to patients treated in the hospital. Methodology: Observational, analytical, longitudinal, and retrospective study of cases and controls. A convenience sample was chosen, in which the cases comprised 20 patients included in the home HSCT care model. For each patient, it was considered suitable to propose two controls among those who received autologous transplantation in the last five years with a baseline demographic and pathological profile similar to the case for whom they were control. Results: The home patients achieved an average of 22.4 ± 2.6 days of evolution with an average of 16.4 ± 2.08 days post-transplant, compared to the hospital process with an average of 21.21 ± 4.18 days of evolution and 15.51 ± 3.96 days post-transplant (evolution days p = 0.022; post-transplant days p = 0.002). A higher percentage of use of parenteral nutrition (p = 0.036) and transfusions (p = 0.003) was observed during the post-transplant phase in the hospital. The rest of the therapeutic measures did not show significant differences. When analyzing the frequency of adverse effects in the post-transplant phase, a significant increase in neutropenic fever (OR = 8.55) and positive blood cultures (OR = 6.65) was observed in hospital patients. Any other significant differences in other variables related to PICC were found (presence and days of neutropenic fever, catheter infection, complications, pathogens, admission to the ICU, or death). Concerning local complications (pain, DVT, Medical adhesive-related Skin Injury, and erythema), there was more erythema in the hospital (p = 0.056). Conclusions: The results obtained indicate that regarding the appearance of complications associated with PICCs in home hospitalization HSCT patients, there are no significant differences compared to hospitalization, so that home care can be a safe context for people with these lines
The Effects of Auricular Acupressure on Low Back Pain, Neuropathy and Sleep in Patients with Persistent Spinal Pain Syndrome (PSPS): A Single-Blind, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Lim Yunmi , Park Hyojung
Published: January 2023

(1) Background: Various procedures were performed on patients with persistent spinal pain syndrome (PSPS), but the clinical effect and safety were insufficient. The study was to examine the effects of auricular acupressure (AA) on low back pain, neuropathy, and sleep in patients on PSPS. (2) Methods: This was a randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted from 1 March 2022 to 31 July 2022. The participants who had at least one lumbar surgery were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (n = 26) or the placebo control group (n = 25). All participants received 6 weeks of AA intervention. To validate the effects of the intervention, pressure pain thresholds (PPT), the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), douleur neuropathique 4 (DN4) questions, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and actigraphy with a Fitbit Alta were conducted. The data were analyzed with SPSS/WIN ver. 27.0, using a t-test and repeated-measures ANOVA. (3) Results: The findings showed that there were significant differences in pain (back VAS p = 0.003, leg VAS p = 0.002, PPT p = 0.008), neuropathy (DN4 p = 0.034), and sleep actigraphy (sleep efficiency p = 0.038, number of awake p = 0.001, deep sleep stage p = 0.017). (4) Conclusions: We conclude that AA is an effective, safe, cost-effective, non-invasive nursing intervention that can improve pain, neuropathy, and sleep in patients on PSPS.
Does Smartphone Use Make Older Adults Feel Younger? A Cross-Sectional Online Survey during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ikeuchi Tomoko , Itoh Sakiko , Miwa Hiroyasu , Watanabe Kentaro , Wakui Tomoko
Published: January 2023

Subjective age (i.e., how old one feels) has been found to be a biopsychosocial marker of aging. This study examined the associations between subjective age and the frequency of information and communication technology (ICT) usage by older adults. Data were collected via an online survey conducted in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study analyzed responses from participants aged 65 to 89 (M = 71.9, SD = 3.9) who resided in Japan (N = 1631, 52.8% female). Subjective age was indexed by asking participants to specify in years how old they felt. Proportional discrepancy scores (PDS) were calculated to indicate younger or older subjective age and were used as an independent variable. Participants were asked about the frequency of computer, smartphone, flip phone, tablet, and social networking service (SNS) use. Two-thirds of the participants (63.6%) reported feeling younger than their actual age. Nearly 90% reported using computers for more than 2–3 days a week, while 64.3% reported smartphone use, 22.9% reported flip phone use, and 36.6% reported SNS use. Logistic regression analyses revealed that a lower PDS (i.e., feeling younger) was associated with a significantly higher frequency of smartphone use (OR: 0.77; 95% CI: 0.60, 0.98) after adjusting for potential confounders. No such association was found for computer, flip phone, tablet, or SNS use. Our study found that feeling younger was associated with a higher frequency of smartphone use. The daily use of smartphones may have helped older adults stay in touch with family and friends and obtain the information that they needed, which may have contributed to better psychological well-being outcomes, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Health of Young Adults Experiencing Social Marginalization and Vulnerability: A Cross-National Longitudinal Study
Authors: Heerde Jessica A. , Merrin Gabriel J. , Le Vi T. , Toumbourou John W. , Bailey Jennifer A.
Published: January 2023

People who experience social marginalization and vulnerability have uniquely complex health needs and are at risk of poor health outcomes. Regression analyses using longitudinal data from a cross-national, population-based sample of young adults participating in the International Youth Development Study, tested associations between social marginalization and vulnerabilities and physical health, mental health, and substance use outcomes. Participants from Victoria, Australia, and Washington State in the US were surveyed at ages 25 (2014) and 29 years (2018; N = 1944; 46.7% male). A history of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), LGBT identity, financial insecurity, and justice system involvement at age 25 predicted poor health outcomes at age 28, including lower perceived health status, risk for chronic illness, depression and anxiety symptoms, and diagnosed mental health/substance use disorders. Tests of model equivalence across states showed that a history of ACEs was more strongly related to health status and serious injury at age 28 and justice system involvement at age 25 was more strongly related to age 28 serious injury in Victoria than in Washington State. Findings strengthen the case for future population-based research identifying life-course interventions and state policies for reducing poor health and improving health equity among members of socially marginalized groups.
Gauging the Changing Landscape: Telehealth Perceptions among Hispanic Females with Breast Cancer
Authors: Nguyen-Grozavu France , Ko Eunjeong , Valadez Galindo Andrea
Published: January 2023

During the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth use rapidly grew while its uptake steadily increased in cancer care. Prior research has reported existing racial and ethnic disparities in telehealth, with Hispanics reporting lower rates of use compared to other major racial/ethnic groups. Our study examined the perceived benefits and challenges/disadvantages faced by Hispanic females diagnosed with breast cancer in San Diego County, California. In-depth interviews were conducted with 27 participants, who were mostly Spanish speaking. The recordings of the interviews were transcribed and translated from Spanish to English. Reflexive thematic analyses revealed both potential benefits and challenges of telehealth. The perceived benefits included logistic and financial aspects (such as convenience and time/financial savings), faster access and longer duration spent with clinicians, the availability of family members, and the minimization of COVID-19 risk. The reported challenges/disadvantages of telehealth and the suggested strategies to address them focused on limitations in clinical care, diminished engagement with clinicians, difficulty accessing interpreter services, and technological access and challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly affected the landscape of how care is provided, with a greater shift to telehealth services. More research is needed to further examine the challenges of telehealth, particularly for groups that are disproportionately affected, to avoid the disruption of patients’ cancer care and to promote a better patient healthcare experience.
Association between Dietary Habits and Severity of Symptoms in Premenstrual Syndrome
Authors: Quaglia Cinzia , Nettore Immacolata Cristina , Palatucci Giuseppe , Franchini Fabiana , Ungaro Paola , Colao Annamaria , Macchia Paolo Emidio
Published: January 2023

Background. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a set of physical, psychological, and emotional symptoms that occur during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. The etiopathogenesis of this condition is not fully understood, and several studies suggest a possible role of environmental factors, such as diet. The aim of this work was to investigate the relationship between dietary habits and the occurrence and severity of PMS. Methods and Results. Forty-seven women were enrolled in the study. Participants were asked to complete the Daily Record of Severity of Problems (DRSP) to diagnose PMS and to complete a three-day food record during the perimenstrual phase. Thirty women completed the study (16 with PMS and 14 controls). An analysis of the food diaries revealed no differences between the women with PMS and the control subjects in terms of total energy intake (1649 vs. 1570 kcal/day), diet composition, and the consumption of macro- or micronutrients, except for copper, whose consumption was higher in women with PMS than in the control subjects (1.27 ± 0.51 vs. 0.94 ± 0.49 mg/d, p < 0.05). Conclusions. The data presented here are very preliminary, and only a significant difference in copper intake was found when comparing women with PMS and controls. Larger studies are needed to better define how diet may contribute to the exacerbation of the psychological and somatic symptoms associated with PMS and whether PMS itself may influence macro- or micronutrient intake by changing dietary habits.
Feasibility and Acceptability of a Remote Stepped Care Mental Health Programme for Adolescents during the COVID-19 Pandemic in India
Authors: Malik Kanika , Shetty Tejaswi , Mathur Sonal , Jose James E. , Mathews Rhea , Sahay Manogya , Chauhan Preeti , Nair Pooja , Patel Vikram , Michelson Daniel
Published: January 2023

Remote mental health services were rapidly deployed during the COVID-19 pandemic, yet there is relatively little contemporaneous evidence on their feasibility and acceptability. This study assessed the feasibility and acceptability of a stepped care mental health programme delivered remotely by lay counsellors to adolescents in New Delhi, India, during a period of ‘lockdown’. The programme consisted of a brief problem-solving intervention (“Step 1”) followed by a tailored behavioural module (“Step 2”) for non-responders. We enrolled 34 participants (M age = 16.4 years) with a self-identified need for psychological support. Feasibility and acceptability were assessed through quantitative process indicators and qualitative interviews (n = 17 adolescents; n = 5 counsellors). Thirty-one (91%) adolescents started Step 1 and 16 (52%) completed the planned Step 1 protocol. Twelve (75%) of the Step 1 completers were non-responsive. Eight (67%) non-responsive cases started Step 2, all of whom met response criteria when reassessed at 12 weeks post-enrolment. Adolescents favoured voice-only sessions over video-calls due to privacy concerns and difficulties accessing suitable devices. Counsellors noted challenges of completing remote sessions within the allotted time while recognising the importance of supervision for developing competence in new ways of working. Both adolescents and counsellors discussed the importance of working collaboratively and flexibly to fit around individual preferences and circumstances. Disentangling pandemic-specific barriers from more routine challenges to remote delivery should be a focus of future research.
Information Needs and Communication Strategies for People with Coronary Heart Disease: A Scoping Review
Authors: Zwack Clara C. , Smith Carlie , Poulsen Vanessa , Raffoul Natalie , Redfern Julie
Published: January 2023

A critical aspect of coronary heart disease (CHD) care and secondary prevention is ensuring patients have access to evidence-based information. The purpose of this review is to summarise the guiding principles, content, context and timing of information and education that is beneficial for supporting people with CHD and potential communication strategies, including digital interventions. We conducted a scoping review involving a search of four databases (Web of Science, PubMed, CINAHL, Medline) for articles published from January 2000 to August 2022. Literature was identified through title and abstract screening by expert reviewers. Evidence was synthesised according to the review aims. Results demonstrated that information-sharing, decision-making, goal-setting, positivity and practicality are important aspects of secondary prevention and should be patient-centred and evidenced based with consideration of patient need and preference. Initiation and duration of education is highly variable between and within people, hence communication and support should be regular and ongoing. In conclusion, text messaging programs, smartphone applications and wearable devices are examples of digital health strategies that facilitate education and support for patients with heart disease. There is no one size fits all approach that suits all patients at all stages, hence flexibility and a suite of resources and strategies is optimal.
Eating Disorders and Disturbed Eating Behaviors Underlying Body Weight Differences in Patients Affected by Endometriosis: Preliminary Results from an Italian Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Panariello Fabio , Borgiani Gianluca , Bronte Concetta , Cassero Giovanni , Montanari Giulia , Falcieri Marcella , Rugo Michele Angelo , Trunfio Ornella , De Ronchi Diana , Atti Anna Rita
Published: January 2023

This study aimed to characterize the prevalence of eating disorders (EDs), disturbed eating behaviors (DEBs), and emotional eating attitudes (EEAs) among patients affected by endometriosis in order to understand a potential crosslink between this impacting gynecological disease and a Body Mass Index shift. A total of 30 patients were recruited at an endometriosis outpatient clinic in Bologna and were assessed by using standardized instruments and specific questionnaires for EDs, DEBs, and EEAs. Sociodemographic information and endometriosis clinical features and history information were collected by adopting a specific questionnaire. Retrospective reports of lifetime Body Mass Index (BMI) changes, current BMI, peak pain severity during the last menstrual period, and the average of pain intensity during the last intermenstrual period were used for a correlation with the mean score from eating-behavior scales’ assessment. The preliminary results indicate that, although only 3.33% of endometriosis patients are affected by ED, statistically significant differences at the mean scores of DEBs and EEAs assessment scales were found by stratifying patients on the basis of BMI levels at risk for infertility and coronary heart disease and on the basis of moderate/severe pain levels. The enrichment of the sample size and the recruitment of the control group to complete the study enrollment will allow us to investigate more complex and strong correlation findings and to assess the prevalence of EDs among endometriosis patients.
Aboriginal Young People’s Experiences of Accessibility in Mental Health Services in Two Regions of New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Garay Jasper , Williamson Anna , Young Christian , Nixon Janice , Cutmore Mandy , Sherriff Simone , Smith Natalie , Slater Kym , Dickson Michelle
Published: January 2023

This article assesses the accessibility of mainstream mental health services (MMHSs) in two regions of New South Wales (NSW), Australia, based on experiences and perspectives of Aboriginal young people aged 16–25. Semi-structured yarning interviews were conducted with thirteen Aboriginal young people in two regions of NSW. Thematic analysis was undertaken by all research team members to identify major themes from the data and conceptual connections between them. The identified themes from individual analysis and coding were triangulated during several analysis meetings to finalise the key themes and findings. Aboriginal young people had no experience of engaging with early-intervention MMHSs. MMHSs were identified as inaccessible, with most participants unaware that MMHSs existed in each region. Due to MMHSs being inaccessible, many Aboriginal young people presented to emergency departments (EDs) during a crisis. Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs) were identified as key providers of accessible, culturally meaningful, and effective social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB) service support for Aboriginal young people in NSW. If health and wellbeing outcomes are to improve for Aboriginal young people in NSW, MMHSs must increase accessibility for Aboriginal young people requiring SEWB support.
Ecological Risks of Antibiotics in Urban Wetlands on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China
Authors: Zhang Fengjiao , Mao Xufeng , Song Xiuhua , Yu Hongyan , Yan Jinlu , Kong Dongsheng , Liu Yinlong , Yao Naixin , Yang Shilin , Xie Shunbang , Ji Haichuan , Zhou Huakun
Published: January 2023

Although the ecological risks of antibiotics have been extensively researched globally, fewer studies have been conducted in sensitive and fragile plateau wetland ecosystems. To evaluate the ecological risk of antibiotics in plateau urban wetlands, 18 water samples, 10 plant samples, and 8 sediment samples were collected in March 2022 in the Xining urban wetlands on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry method was utilized to measure the concentrations of 15 antibiotics in three categories in three types of environmental media. Risk quotients were adopted to assess the ecological risk of antibiotics, and the principal component analysis–multiple linear regression model was used to analyze the source of antibiotics. The results showed that (1) the maximum concentrations of antibiotics in water samples, plants, and sediments reached 1220.86 ng/L, 78.30 ng/g, and 5.64 ng/g, respectively; (2) Tylosin (TYL), norfloxacin (NFX), ofloxacin (OFX), and ciprofloxacin (CFX) in water were at medium and high-risk levels, and OFX had the highest risk value, of 108.04; and (3) the results of source apportionment indicate that 58.94% of the antibiotics came from the Huangshui river and wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) near the wetlands. The current study may provide a reference for the risks and management of antibiotics in plateau urban wetlands.
A Public Health Review into Two Decades of Domestic Trampoline Injuries in Children within Queensland, Australia
Authors: Eager David , Zhou Shilei , Barker Ruth , Catchpoole Jesani , Sharwood Lisa N.
Published: January 2023

Trampolining as an activity brings enjoyment and many health benefits, but at the same time it carries an injury risk. Most domestic trampoline users are children who are developing in skill, cognition, risk perception, physical strength and resilience to injury. Several common patterns of child trampoline injuries have been identified and countermeasures outlined in standards have been taken to reduce higher risk injury mechanisms, such as entrapment and falls from the trampoline through design, product and point of sale labelling. In Australia, the first national trampoline standard was published in 2003 which introduced improvements in trampoline design and requirements for labelling and padding. This work investigated the potential impact of these and subsequent changes based on almost two decades of emergency department trampoline injury data collected in Queensland, Australia. These data describe the changing representative proportion and pattern of trampoline injuries in Queensland over time by age, mechanism, gender, severity and nature of injury of injured persons up to the age of 14 years. The interrelationships between different injury characteristics were also analysed to propose the main factors influencing injury occurrence and severity. These findings seem to indicate that safety evolution in the form of enclosure nets, frame impact attenuation and entrapment protection have likely improved domestic trampoline safety. Other factors, such as adult supervision, minimum age and avoidance of multiple users, could further reduce injury but are harder to influence in the domestic setting.
Hip Surgery in Cerebral Palsy: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Ma Norine , Sclavos Nicholas , Graham Kerr , Rutz Erich
Published: January 2023

Hip dislocation in cerebral palsy can lead to pain, pressure sores and difficulty with perineal hygiene. Hip surveillance programs have been implemented to identify patients who might benefit from early intervention and preventive strategies. Surgical techniques used to treat hip dislocation include soft tissue procedures, guided growth, osteotomies and salvage procedures. A search was conducted using Clarivate Web of Science Core Collection on 18 October 2022, to identify all studies of bony or soft tissue surgery for hip pathology in children with cerebral palsy. Fifty-nine original studies and reviews with at least 20 citations were included in this bibliometric analysis. We found that there has been an increase in studies over the decades, with the most studies being published in the Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics. The United States of America was the most productive country, with Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard University publishing the most articles. The Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies (MINORS) scoring system was used to analyse the methodological quality of included cohort studies, with the median score being 11 out of 18; many studies had no prospective calculation of study size and lacked control groups. Overall, the literature on this topic appears to be preferentially published in the Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics, and influential papers by Hagglund 2005 and 2014 continue to be highly cited.
Climate Change and Health: Local Government Capacity for Health Protection in Australia
Authors: Smith James C. , Whiley Harriet , Ross Kirstin E.
Published: January 2023

Climate change is the greatest global health threat of the 21st century, with numerous direct and indirect human health consequences. Local governments play a critical role in communities’ response to climate change, both through strategies to reduce emissions and adaption plans to respond to changing climate and extreme weather events. Australian local government environmental health officers (EHOs) have the relevant skills and expertise to inform and develop adaptation plans for health protection in the context of climate change. This study used an online survey followed by phone interviews of local government management to determine the extent to which EHOs are involved in adaptation planning in health protection climate change plans. Questions were also asked to determine whether local councils are aware of EHOs’ capability to contribute and to gauge the willingness of management to provide EHOs with the workload capacity to do so. The findings demonstrated that although climate adaptation and mitigation planning is occurring in local government, it is not including or considering the public health impacts on the community. Primarily, it was found that this oversight was due to a lack of awareness of the health impacts of climate change outside of a disaster or emergency scenario. Currently, EHOs are an untapped source of knowledge and skills that can contribute to climate change adaption planning. To support this, a framework of local environmental health practice was developed to assist the reconceptualization of the scope of practice required for the planning and response to climate change.