bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Supportive Ethical Relationships Are Negatively Related to Palliative Care Professionals’ Negative Affectivity and Moral Distress: A Portuguese Sample
Authors: Rego Francisca , Sommovigo Valentina , Setti Ilaria , Giardini Anna , Alves Elsa , Morgado Julliana , Maffoni Marina
Published: March 2022

In the modern healthcare landscape, moral distress has become an increasingly common phenomenon among healthcare professionals. This condition is particularly prevalent among palliative care professionals who are confronted with bioethical issues in their daily practice. Although some studies described the effects of poor ethical climate and negative affectivity on moral distress, how these variables could be incorporated into a single model is still unclear. Thus, this study aims to investigate whether ethical relationships with the hospital could be related to the intensity and frequency of moral distress, both directly and as mediated by professionals’ negative affectivity. Sixty-one Portuguese palliative care professionals completed web-based self-report questionnaires. After exploring descriptive statistics, mediation analyses were performed using the partial least squares method. The results indicated that the presence of positive relationships with the hospital reduced the professionals’ negative affectivity levels. This, in turn, led palliative care professionals to experience a lower frequency and intensity of moral distress. Being a physician was positively associated with negative affectivity but not with the frequency of moral distress. Considering the protective role of ethical relationships with hospitals, health organizations could consider implementing interventions to improve hospitals’ ethical climate and provide staff with ethics training programs.
Living Lab Experience in Turin: Lifestyles and Exposure to Black Carbon
Authors: Salimbene Ornella , Boniardi Luca , Lingua Andrea Maria , Ravina Marco , Zanetti Mariachiara , Panepinto Deborah
Published: March 2022

State-of-the-art, continuous personal monitoring is a reference point for assessing exposure to air pollution. European air-quality standards for particulate matter (PM) use mass concentration of PM (PM with aerodynamic diameters ≤ 10 μm (PM10) or ≤2.5 μm (PM2.5)) as the metric. It would be desirable to determine whether black carbon (BC) can be used as a better, newer indicator than PM10 and PM2.5. This article discusses the preliminary results of one of the three living laboratories developed in the project “Combination of traditional air quality indicators with an additional traffic proxy: Black Carbon (BC)”. The Living Lab#1 (LL#1) involved 15 users in the city of Turin, Italy. Three portable aethalometers (AE51) were used to detect personal equivalent black carbon (eBC) concentrations in the respiratory area of volunteers at 10-s intervals as they went about their normal daily activities. The Geo-Tracker App and a longitudinal temporal activity diary were used to track users’ movements. The sampling campaign was performed in November for one week. and each user was investigated for 24 h. A total of 8640 eBC measurements were obtained with an average daily personal exposure of 3.1 µg/m3 (±SD 1.3). The change in movement patterns and the variability of microenvironments were decisive determinants of exposure. Preliminary results highlight the potential utility of Living Labs to promote innovative approaches to design an urban-scale air-quality management plan which also includes BC as a new indicator.
Understanding the Association between Musical Sophistication and Well-Being in Music Students
Authors: Cara Michel A. , Lobos Constanza , Varas Mario , Torres Oscar
Published: March 2022

Quality of life and mental health are topics under discussion in the university environment that pose new educational challenges. Public policy in Chile establishes the need to track students who are starting university and who could find themselves at possible academic risk (Law 20. 903). These transition processes experienced by students therefore need to be guided to improve the students’ quality of life. Using a mixed design, the present study analyzes the association between musical sophistication (Ollen, 2006), students’ well-being, and the performance of first-year students training to be music teachers (n = 25). The Ollen Musical Sophistication questionnaire and the Spanish version of the PERMA-profiler, a questionnaire for assessing well-being, were applied. In order to obtain detailed information about learning processes and educational needs, seven interviews were conducted. Results indicate a negative correlation between musical sophistication on the one hand and negative emotions (anxiety and anger) and loneliness on the other. This is reflected in less consistent academic performance, difficulties in identity development, and reduced motivation to face new challenges besides musical learning. We concluded that knowledge and observation of students’ previous musical experience is crucial for understanding and supporting the educational transition process and well-being of student music teachers.
The Effect of Music Tempo on Fatigue Perception at Different Exercise Intensities
Authors: Wu Jianfeng , Zhang Lingyan , Yang Hongchun , Lu Chunfu , Jiang Lu , Chen Yuyun
Published: March 2022

Background: This study aimed to clarify the effect of music tempo on runners’ perception of fatigue at different exercise intensities and while listening to music of different tempos through running experiments. Methods: This study used a within-subject two-factor experimental design with music tempo (fast music, slow music, no music) and exercise intensity (high intensity, low intensity) as independent variables and the time to fatigue perception (TFP), the difference in heart rate (HR) and the difference in the median frequency (MF) of surface electromyography (sEMG) signals as observation indexes. Eighteen participants completed a total of 108 sets of running experiments. Results: (1) The main effect of music tempo on the TFP was significant (p < 0.001). (2) The main effect of exercise intensity on the TFP was significant (p < 0.001), and the main effect on the difference in HR was significant (p < 0.001). (3) The interaction effect of music tempo and exercise intensity on the TFP was significant (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Exercisers’ subjective perception of fatigue was affected by music tempo and the interaction between music tempo and exercise intensity, and exercisers’ objective fatigue perception was influenced mostly by exercise intensity. The findings of this study provide guidance for runners’ choice of music at different intensities of exercise. Whether it is low-intensity exercise or high-intensity exercise, listening to fast music while exercising can help runners perform better mentally and physically during their runs.
User Perception of New E-Health Challenges: Implications for the Care Process
Authors: González-Revuelta María , Novas Nuria , Gázquez Jose , Rodríguez-Maresca Manuel , García-Torrecillas Juan
Published: March 2022

Establishing new models of health care and new forms of professional health-patient communication are lines of development in the field of health care. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the evolution of information systems and communication platforms to guarantee continuity of care and compliance with social distancing measures. Our objective in this article was, firstly, to know the expectations of patients treated in the healthcare processes “cervical cancer” and “pregnancy, childbirth and puerperium” regarding online access to their clinical history and follow-up in the care process. Secondly, we analyzed times involved in the cervical cancer process to find points of improvement in waiting times when digital tools were used for communication with the patient. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out on 120 women included in any of the aforementioned processes using a hetero-administered questionnaire. The analysis of times was carried out using the Business Intelligence tool Biwer Analytics®. Patients showed interest in knowing their results before the appointment with the doctor and would avoid appointments with their doctor if the right conditions were met. Most recognized that this action would relieve their restlessness and anxiety. They were highly interested in receiving recommendations to improve their health status. It was estimated that there was room for improvement in the times involved in the care process, which could be shortened by 34.48 days if communication of results were through digital information access technologies. This would favor the optimization of time, resources and user perception.
Factors Associated with Emotion Regulation in Men with Internet Access Living in Brazil during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Teixeira Jules Ramon Brito , Sousa Anderson Reis de , Silva Palma Emanuel Missias , Moreira Wanderson Carneiro , Santana Thiago da Silva , Barreto Nilo Manoel Pereira Vieira , de Moura Maciel Alves , Vergara-Escobar Oscar Javier , Fabián José Oscar Yovani , Souza Pereira Gildásio , Martins de Oliveira Paulo Henrique , do Nascimento Trindade dos Santos Jacilene Santiago , Camargo Emerson Lucas Silva , Araújo Tânia Maria de , Mendes Isabel Amélia Costa , Arena Ventura Carla Aparecida , Carvalho Evanilda Souza de Santana , Sousa Álvaro Francisco Lopes de
Published: March 2022

Objective: to evaluate the factors associated with emotion regulation in men with internet access living in Brazil during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: an epidemiological survey, conducted with 1015 men. An electronic form was applied containing sociodemographic and occupational characteristics, support and coping strategies, as well as emotional and behavioral aspects. Emotion regulation was assessed using the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire. Results: The prevalence values observed were 44.6% for Low Cognitive Reappraisal and of 47.1% for High Emotional Suppression. The following factors were identified as associated: (a) with Low Cognitive Reappraisal: being aged 30 years old or more, practicing physical activity, worrying about social distancing and having positive emotions and feelings; and (b) with High Emotional Suppression: being heterosexual, non-white race/skin color, having security support or public administration, not sanitizing food, worrying about lack of physical activity and not having negative emotions. Conclusion: the adoption of emotion regulation strategies was associated with individual, contextual and emotional/behavioral characteristics. Masculinity ideals seem to exert an influence on these relationships.
Telework and Worker Health and Well-Being: A Review and Recommendations for Research and Practice
Authors: Beckel Julia L. O. , Fisher Gwenith G.
Published: March 2022

Telework (also referred to as telecommuting or remote work), is defined as working outside of the conventional office setting, such as within one’s home or in a remote office location, often using a form of information communication technology to communicate with others (supervisors, coworkers, subordinates, customers, etc.) and to perform work tasks. Remote work increased over the last decade and tremendously in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this article is to review and critically evaluate the existing research about telework and worker health and well-being. In addition, we review and evaluate how engaging in this flexible form of work impacts worker health and well-being. Specifically, we performed a literature search on the empirical literature related to teleworking and worker health and well-being, and reviewed articles published after the year 2000 based on the extent to which they had been discussed in prior reviews. Next, we developed a conceptual framework based on our review of the empirical literature. Our model explains the process by which telework may affect worker health and well-being in reference to individual, work/life/family, organizational, and macro level factors. These components are explained in depth, followed by methodological and fundamental recommendations intended to guide future research, policies, and practices to maximize the benefits and minimize the harms associated with telework, and offer recommendations for future research.
Moral Distress in Healthcare Providers Who Take Care of Critical Pediatric Patients throughout Italy—Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Italian Pediatric Instrument
Authors: Grasso Chiara , Massidda Davide , Maslak Karolina Zaneta , Favara-Scacco Cinzia , Grasso Francesco Antonio , Bencivenga Carmela , Confalone Valerio , Lampugnani Elisabetta , Moscatelli Andrea , Somaini Marta , Tesoro Simonetta , Lamiani Giulia , Astuto Marinella ,   on behalf of the MoDiPerSaPerCI Group
Published: March 2022

Background: Although Moral Distress (MD) is a matter of concern within the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), there is no validated Italian instrument for measuring the phenomenon in nurses and physicians who care for pediatric patients in Intensive Care. The authors of the Italian Moral Distress Scale-Revised (Italian MDS-R), validated for the adult setting, in 2017, invited further research to evaluate the generalizability of the scale to clinicians working in other fields. Our study aims to reduce this knowledge gap by developing and validating the pediatric version of the Italian MDS-R. Methods: We evaluated the new instrument for construct validity, then we administered it in a multicenter, web-based survey that involved healthcare providers of three PICUs and three adult ICUs admitting children in northern, central, and southern Italy. Finally, we tested it for internal consistency, confirmatory factorial validity, convergent validity, and differences between groups analysis. Results: The 14-item, three-factor model best fit the data. The scale showed good reliability (a = 0.87). Still, it did not correlate with the Emotional Exhaustion and Depersonalization sub-scales of the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) or with the 2-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC 2) or the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). A mild correlation was found between the Italian Pediatric MDS-R score and intention to resign from the job. No correlation was found between MD and years of experience. Females, nurses, and clinicians who cared for COVID-19 patients had a higher MD score. Conclusions: The Italian Pediatric MDS-R is a valid and reliable instrument for measuring MD among Italian health workers who care for critically ill children. Further research would be helpful in better investigating its applicability to the heterogeneous scenario of Italian Pediatric Critical Care Medicine.
Mental Health Peer Worker Perspectives on Resources Developed from Lived Experience Research Findings: A Delphi Study
Authors: Li Shannon , Honey Anne , Coniglio Francesca , Schaecken Peter
Published: March 2022

Lived experience research is potentially useful for assisting the recovery journeys of people experiencing mental health challenges, when presented in user-friendly formats. Consumer peer workers are ideally placed to introduce such resources to the people they work with. This study sought to explore the perspectives of expert consumer peer workers on the potential use of lived experience research resources in peer work practice. In particular: (1) what research topics would be most useful; and (2) what considerations are important for developing user-friendly and useful resources using findings from this research. A hybrid Delphi study was conducted. Eighteen expert peer workers participated in online group interviews, which included a semi-structured discussion and modified nominal group technique. These were followed by two rounds of surveys, which focused on prioritising the identified topics. Participants identified 47 topics suitable for lived experience research resources, 42 of which reached consensus as useful for consumers. A priority list of topics for use in peer work was identified through examination and grouping of peer worker rankings of the usefulness of resources for their work with consumers. The highest priority topics were as follows: developing and maintaining social networks; how peer workers can support consumers in their recovery journey; having choice with medications and participating in the decision-making process; and knowing your rights and responsibilities. Participants noted, however, that the usefulness of each topic ultimately depended on individual consumer’s needs. They highlighted that a variety of formats and presentation were required to reach diverse consumer groups.
Blood Aluminum Levels in Patients with Hemodialysis and Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Chuang Po-Hsun , Tsai Kai-Fan , Wang I-Kuan , Huang Ya-Ching , Huang Lan-Mei , Liu Shou-Hsuan , Weng Cheng-Hao , Huang Wen-Hung , Hsu Ching-Wei , Lee Wen-Chin , Yen Tzung-Hai
Published: March 2022

Background. This retrospective observational study attempted to examine the prevalence of abnormal blood aluminum levels in dialysis patients, and to explore the association of pathogenic factors, such as demographic, clinical, laboratory as well as the use of phosphate binding drugs, drugs for secondary hyperparathyroidism and erythropoiesis-stimulating drugs with the blood aluminum levels. Methods. The study included 1175 patients (874 hemodialysis and 301 peritoneal dialysis), recruited from Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in November 2020. Patients were stratified into two groups by their blood aluminum levels, as normal (<2 µg/dL, n = 1150) or abnormal (≥2 µg/dL, n = 25). Results. The patients aged 60.4 ± 13.2 years and were dialyzed for 8.6 ± 8.1 years. The average blood aluminum level was 1.0 ± 0.4 µg/dL. Patients with abnormal blood aluminum levels received more sevelamer than patients with normal blood aluminum level (p = 0.014). Patients with abnormal blood aluminum levels had higher platelet count (p = 0.001), triglyceride (p < 0.001) and total iron binding capacity (p = 0.003) than patients with normal blood aluminum levels. Moreover, the cardiothoracic ratio was higher in patients with abnormal blood aluminum levels than patients with normal blood aluminum levels (p = 0.003). Conclusions. The prevalence of abnormal blood aluminum levels was low at 2.2%. Nevertheless, the linking of cardiothoracic ratio of more than 0.5 as well as elevated blood platelet count and triglyceride level with blood aluminum levels are interesting, and warranted more researches in this area.
Mountain Hiking vs. Forest Therapy: A Study Protocol of Novel Types of Nature-Based Intervention
Authors: Pichler Christina , Freidl Johanna , Bischof Michael , Kiem Martin , Weisböck-Erdheim Renate , Huber Daniela , Squarra Gabriella , Murschetz Paul , Hartl Arnulf
Published: March 2022

Introduction: The global rise of urbanization has much triggered scientific interest in how nature impacts on human health. Natural environments, such as alpine landscapes, forests, or urban green spaces, are potential high-impact health resources. While there is a growing body of evidence to reveal a positive influence of these natural environments on human health and well-being, further investigations guided by rigorous evidence-based medical research are very much needed. Objective: The present study protocol aims at testing research methodologies in the context of a prospective clinical trial on nature-based interventions. This shall improve the standards of medical research in human–nature interactions. Methods: The ANKER Study investigates the influence of two novel types of nature-based therapy—mountain hiking and forest therapy—on physiological, psychological, and immunological parameters of couples with a sedentary lifestyle. Two intervention groups were formed and spent a seven-day holiday in Algund, Italy. The “forest therapy group” participated in daily guided low-power nature connection activities. The “hiking group”, by contrast, joined in a daily moderate hiking program. Health-related quality of life and relationship quality are defined as primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes include nature connection, balance, cardio-respiratory fitness, fractional exhaled nitric oxide, body composition and skin hydration. Furthermore, a new approach to measure health-related quality of life is validated. The so-called “intercultural quality of life” comic assesses the health-related quality of life with a digitally animated comic-based tool.
Training Pre-Service Early Childhood Educators in Physical Activity (TEACH): Protocol for a Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Tucker Patricia , Bruijns Brianne A. , Adamo Kristi B. , Burke Shauna M. , Carson Valerie , Heydon Rachel , Irwin Jennifer D. , Johnson Andrew M. , Naylor Patti-Jean , Timmons Brian W. , Vanderloo Leigh M.
Published: March 2022

Background: Early childhood educators (ECEs) influence young children’s early uptake of positive health behaviours in childcare settings and serve as important daytime role models. As such, it is imperative that post-secondary early childhood education programs provide students with the foundational knowledge and professional training required to confidently facilitate quality active play opportunities for young children. The primary objective of the Training pre-service EArly CHildhood educators in physical activity (TEACH) study is to develop and implement an e-Learning course in physical activity and sedentary behaviour to facilitate improvements in: pre-service ECEs’ self-efficacy and knowledge to lead physical activity and outdoor play opportunities and minimize sedentary behaviours in childcare. This study will also explore pre-service ECEs’ behavioural intention and perceived control to promote physical activity and outdoor play, and minimize sedentary behaviour in childcare, and the implementation of the e-Learning course. Methods/Design: A mixed-methods quasi-experimental design with three data collection time points (baseline, post-course completion, 3-month follow-up) will be employed to test the e-Learning course in early childhood education programs (n = 18; 9 experimental, 9 comparison) across Canada. Pre-service ECEs enrolled in colleges/universities assigned to the experimental group will be required to complete a 4-module e-Learning course, while programs in the comparison group will maintain their typical curriculum. Pre-service ECEs’ self-efficacy, knowledge, as well as behavioural intention and perceived behavioural control will be assessed via online surveys and module completion rates will be documented using website metrics. Group differences across timepoints will be assessed using linear mixed effects modelling and common themes will be identified through thematic analysis. Discussion: The TEACH study represents a novel, evidence-informed approach to address the existing gap in physical activity and sedentary behaviour-related education in Canadian post-secondary early childhood education programs. Moreover, e-Learning platforms, can be employed as an innovative, standardized, and scalable way to provide ECEs with consistent training across jurisdictions.
The Relationship between Living Arrangements and Sleep Quality in Older Adults: Gender Differences
Authors: Chu Hyeon Sik , Oh Juyeon , Lee Kounseok
Published: March 2022

(1) Background: This study examined the effects of living arrangements on the quality of sleep among older adults and analyzed related gender differences; (2) Methods: A total of 4756 older adults in Seoul were included. After adjusting for socio-demographic factors, older adults living alone showed a poorer sleep quality compared with those living with others; (3) Results: When we analyzed the effects of living arrangements on sleep quality by gender, there was no difference in the risk of poor sleep quality between male older adults living alone and those living with others (OR = 1.089, 95% CI = 0.729–1.628), whereas the risk of poor sleep quality was higher for female older adults living alone than those living with others (OR = 1.359, 95% CI = 1.088–1.696); (4) Conclusions: In this study, we have confirmed that older women living alone had poor sleep quality compared to older men. Hence, gender-based approaches will be helpful when providing social support resources to older adults living alone.
Total Hemoglobin Trajectories from Pregnancy to Postpartum in Rural Northeast Brazil: Differences between Adolescent and Adult Women
Authors: Silva Raí Nabichedí da , Pirkle Catherine M. , Sentell Tetine , Peltzer Nicole Kahielani , Wu Yan Yan , Domingues Marlos R. , Câmara Saionara M. A.
Published: March 2022

This study examines total hemoglobin (THB) trajectories during pregnancy and postpartum and associated factors among adolescents and adults from a low-income community. This is an observational, longitudinal study, part of the Adolescence and Motherhood Research (AMOR) project, performed between 2017 and 2019 in the Trairi region of Rio Grande do Norte state, Brazil. The THB levels of 100 primigravida adolescents and adults were monitored up to 16 weeks of gestation, in the third trimester, and 4–6 weeks postpartum, along with socioeconomic characteristics, anthropometrics, and health-related variables. Mixed-effect linear models evaluated the trajectories of THB and the associated factors. THB levels decreased between first and second assessments and increased between the second and postpartum assessments. For the adolescent cohort, the rebound in THB concentration between the third trimester and postpartum was not enough to make up for the initial losses, as occurred in the adult cohort. For the adult group, higher THB levels were associated with pregnancy planning and good self-rated health. Race was marginally associated to THB levels, with black/brown women presenting higher concentrations in the adolescent and lower concentration in the adult group. Special attention to prenatal care among pregnant adolescents should consider their higher risk of anemia and its negative effects.
Gingival Phenotype Changes and the Prevalence of Mucogingival Deformities during the Early Transitional Dentition Phase—A Two-Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Kus-Bartoszek Agnieszka , Lipski Mariusz , Jarząbek Anna , Manowiec Joanna , Droździk Agnieszka
Published: March 2022

Thin gingival phenotype (GPh) may contribute to periodontal tissue breakdown and recession development. Thus, the early identification of thin GPh in children can allow proper preventive care and the identification of children at risk during orthodontic treatment. The present long-term study aimed to monitor GPh changes, i.e., thickness (GT) and width of attached gingiva (AGW) during the early transitional dentition phase, as well as its potential associations with the mucogingival deformities. Materials and Methods: 83 systematically healthy children were examined twice with an interval of 2 years. Probing depth, GT and AGW at mandibular incisors, vestibular depth, type of lower lip frenum attachment and mucogingival defects were recorded. Results: 95.2% of participants at baseline and 93.9% at 2-year examination expressed thin GPh. During the transition from the deciduous to permanent dentition, GT and AGW declined, but the GT of permanent incisors already erupted at the baseline examination increased in the observation period. Conclusions: Gingival phenotype undergoes changes in the early transitional dentition phase. In spite of the thin gingival phenotype, only single pseudo-recessions and primary shallow vestibule were noticed.
Social Capital Resources in Coping with Distance Education during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Content Analysis of the Statements of Teachers Working in Poland at Different Educational Stages
Authors: Jaskulska Sylwia , Jankowiak Barbara , Soroko Emilia
Published: March 2022

The article aims to show social capital resources in coping with distance education during the COVID-19 pandemic of Polish teachers working at different educational stages. The sample consisted of 1104 women (91.2%) and 107 men (8.8%) who described their remote professional experiences as valued positively during the pandemic. The collected verbal material was analyzed with quantitative content analysis based on theory-driven categories of social capital: Relationships, trust, commitment, and fulfilling obligations. Then, the frequency of words belonging to the categories in each participant’s utterance was assessed. The results indicate that when describing positive experiences (situations and events) during distance education, teachers referred mainly to social capital resources in terms of relationships and fulfilling obligations. The results indicate that teachers working in secondary schools in Poland put less emphasis on building social capital during distance education, especially in terms of relationships, than teachers working with younger children.
Outbreak of Leptospira borgpetersenii Serogroup Sejroe Infection in Kennel: The Role of Dogs as Sentinel in Specific Environments
Authors: Balboni Andrea , Mazzotta Elisa , Boniotti Maria Beatrice , Bertasio Cristina , Bellinati Laura , Lucchese Laura , Battilani Mara , Ceglie Letizia , Marchione Silvia , Esposito Giulio , Natale Alda
Published: March 2022

Kennels may represent high-risk environments for the diffusion of Leptospira infection in dogs and consequently a threat to public health. This study describes an outbreak of Leptospira infection in a kennel in Italy in 2020, both with clinically ill and asymptomatic dogs. Fifty-nine dogs, including three ill dogs, were tested for Leptospira spp. infection by the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) and real-time qPCR. Multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) analysis was used to genotype the identified leptospires. Thirty of the fifty-nine (50.9%) dogs had MAT titer and/or molecular positivity indicative of Leptospira infection. Twenty-two of the fifty-nine (37.3%) dogs exhibited seropositivity against at least one serovar belonging to the Sejroe serogroup, and MLST analysis identified L. borgpetersenii serogroup Sejroe (Leptospira ST155) as responsible for the outbreak. Up to now, Sejroe serogroup infection was sporadically reported in dogs. The extension of the MAT antigen panel to several serovars belonging to the serogroup Sejroe could be useful in the diagnosis of canine leptospirosis. Dogs may serve as sentinel of leptospires in specific environments, and surveillance of Leptospira infection in kennels is strongly recommended even when the correct vaccine prophylaxis is administered, because the vaccines currently available are not able to protect from all of the serogroups.
Association between Long Working Hours and Psychological Distress: The Effect Modification by Request to Stay Home When Sick in the Workplace during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Hino Ayako , Inoue Akiomi , Mafune Kosuke , Tsuji Mayumi , Tateishi Seiichiro , Ogami Akira , Nagata Tomohisa , Muramatsu Keiji , Fujino Yoshihisa ,   on behalf of The CORoNaWork Project
Published: March 2022

The effect of workplace infection control measures required by the COVID-19 pandemic on the association between long working hours and psychological distress has not yet been fully revealed. This study investigated the effect of requesting to stay home when sick (RSH) on the association between long working hours and psychological distress. We conducted a cross-sectional survey in December 2020 among participants who had previously registered with a Japanese web survey company. A total of 27,036 workers completed a self-administered questionnaire which assessed usual daily overtime work hours. RSH was assessed using an original single-item scale, while psychological distress was measured with the K6 scale. After the interaction effect of overtime work hours and RSH on psychological distress was tested, we conducted stratified analyses using RSH. The statistical analysis demonstrated a significant interaction effect (p for interaction < 0.001). When we conducted stratified analyses, the odds ratios increased with longer working hours, both with and without RSH groups; however, the risk of long working hours causing psychological distress was greater in the latter group (odds ratio = 1.95 [95% confidence interval: 1.62–2.36] than in the former group (odds ratio = 1.73 [95% confidence interval: 1.55–1.93]). We found that working without RSH could strengthen the association between long working hours and psychological distress. Our findings contribute to preventing the deterioration of mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Understanding the Role of Nature Engagement in Supporting Health and Wellbeing during COVID-19
Authors: Darcy Patricia M. , Taylor Jennifer , Mackay Lorna , Ellis Naomi J. , Gidlow Christopher J.
Published: March 2022

The importance of natural environments in supporting health and wellbeing has been well evidenced in supporting positive mental and physical health outcomes, including during periods of crisis and stress. Given the disproportionate impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have been greatest for those who are most vulnerable, understanding the role of natural environment and alternative forms of nature engagement in supporting health and wellbeing for vulnerable groups is important. This study explored how nature engagement supported health and wellbeing in those with a pre-existing health condition during the first UK lockdown. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 adults with a pre-existing health condition and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Four themes were identified: COVID-19 versus nature; Nature as an extension and replacement; Nature connectedness; and Therapeutic nature. The findings show the importance of nature in supporting health and wellbeing in those with a pre-existing health condition through engagement with private and public natural environments, micro-restorative opportunities, nature connection as an important pathway, and the therapeutic benefits of nature engagement. The present research extends the evidence-base beyond patterns of nature engagement to a deeper understanding of how those with existing health conditions perceived and interacted with nature in relation to their health and wellbeing during the first UK lockdown. Findings are discussed in relation to health supporting environments, micro-restorative opportunities, and policy implications.
Dengue Fever in Mainland China, 2005–2020: A Descriptive Analysis of Dengue Cases and Aedes Data
Authors: Yue Yujuan , Liu Qiyong , Liu Xiaobo , Zhao Ning , Yin Wenwu
Published: March 2022

Dengue fever occurs throughout mainland China, except in the Tibet Autonomous Region. During 2005–2020, there were 12,701 imported cases and 81,653 indigenous cases recorded. The indigenous cases were mainly clustered in Guangdong (74.0%) and Yunnan provinces (13.7%). Indigenous dengue fever is a seasonal illness in mainland China, manifesting predominantly in summer and autumn. Indigenous dengue fever cases tend to peak every 5years and have shown a substantial increase during the period 2005–2020. During the study period, indigenous dengue fever occurred more than ten times in each of the seven counties of Guangdong Province. Indigenous dengue fever has spread from low to high latitudes; that is, from the southwestern, southern, and southeastern areas to the central and northern regions, and from border ports and cities to rural areas. Aedes aegypti has become widespread in Yunnan Province but has diminished in Guangxi, Guangdong, and Hainan provinces in recent years. Aedes albopictus is distributed throughout mainland China, spanning 25 provinces and municipalities. To maintain effective public health prevention and control, it is important to monitor dengue occurrence, provide dengue classification guidance, and ensure sustainable vector management of Aedes.
Integrating Gestures and Words to Communicate in Full-Term and Low-Risk Preterm Late Talkers
Authors: Suttora Chiara , Guarini Annalisa , Zuccarini Mariagrazia , Aceti Arianna , Corvaglia Luigi , Sansavini Alessandra
Published: March 2022

Young children use gestures to practice communicative functions that foster their receptive and expressive linguistic skills. Studies investigating the use of gestures by late talkers are limited. This study aimed to investigate the use of gestures and gesture–word combinations and their associations with word comprehension and word and sentence production in late talkers. A further purpose was to examine whether a set of individual and environmental factors accounted for interindividual differences in late talkers’ gesture and gesture–word production. Sixty-one late talkers, including 35 full-term and 26 low-risk preterm children, participated in the study. Parents filled out the Italian short forms of the MacArthur–Bates Communicative Development Inventories (MB–CDI), “Gesture and Words” and “Words and Sentences” when their children were 30-months-old, and they were then invited to participate in a book-sharing session with their child. Children’s gestures and words produced during the book-sharing session were transcribed and coded into CHAT of CHILDES and analyzed with CLAN. Types of spontaneous gestures (pointing and representational gestures) and gesture–word combinations (complementary, equivalent, and supplementary) were coded. Measures of word tokens and MLU were also computed. Correlational analyses documented that children’s use of gesture–word combinations, particularly complementary and supplementary forms, in the book-sharing session was positively associated with linguistic skills both observed during the session (word tokens and MLU) and reported by parents (word comprehension, word production, and sentence production at the MB–CDI). Concerning individual factors, male gender was negatively associated with gesture and gesture–word use, as well as with MB–CDI action/gesture production. In contrast, having a low-risk preterm condition and being later-born were positively associated with the use of gestures and pointing gestures, and having a family history of language and/or learning disorders was positively associated with the use of representational gestures. Furthermore, a low-risk preterm status and a higher cognitive score were positively associated with gesture–word combinations, particularly complementary and supplementary types. With regard to environmental factors, older parental age was negatively associated with late talkers’ use of gestures and pointing gestures. Interindividual differences in late talkers’ gesture and gesture–word production were thus related to several intertwined individual and environmental factors. Among late talkers, use of gestures and gesture–word combinations represents a point of strength promoting receptive and expressive language acquisition.
Aseptic Meningitis in Oral Medicine: Exploring the Key Elements for a Challenging Diagnosis: A Review of the Literature and Two Case Reports
Authors: Leuci Stefania , Coppola Noemi , Cantile Tiziana , Calabria Elena , Mihai Laurenta Lelia , Mignogna Michele Davide
Published: March 2022

Aseptic meningitis (AM) is a potentially severe and life-threatening disease characterized by meningeal inflammation, usually with mononuclear pleocytosis. It represents a challenging and controversial issue in medicine for multiple etiologies, classification, and difficult diagnosis in the face of nonspecific sets of signs and symptoms. In the area of interest of oral medicine, in specific clusters of patients, even if rare, the occurrence of aseptic meningitis can pose a diagnostic and management dilemma in the following potential etiologies: (i) systemic diseases with oral and meningeal involvement, which include Behçet’s disease and Sjögren syndrome; (ii) drug-induced aseptic meningitis; (iii) aseptic viral meningitis, mostly related to herpes simplex virus infection and hand, foot, and mouth disease, caused by enteroviruses. In this review, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methodologies, incidence, treatment, and prognosis for each of these clinical entities are provided. Furthermore, two illustrative case reports are described: a patient suffering from recurrent oral ulcers, in which a sudden onset of AM allows us to diagnose Neuro Behçet’s disease, and a patient affected by pemphigus vulgaris, manifesting a drug-induced AM. Exploring this complex clinical entity scenario, it is clear that an oral medicine specialist has a place on any multidisciplinary team in making such a challenging diagnosis.
ARCCH Model of Resilience: A Flexible Multisystemic Resilience Framework
Authors: Wojciak Armeda Stevenson , Powers Jan , Chan Athena Chung Yin , Pleggenkuhle Allison L. , Hooper Lisa M.
Published: March 2022

The increasing prevalence and impact of trauma, such as adverse childhood experiences, race-based trauma, and a global pandemic, highlight the critical need for a flexible multisystemic framework of resilience. This manuscript outlines the universality of trauma and resilience and also provides a description of the gaps in existing resilience frameworks that led to the development of a flexible multisystemic resilience framework entitled the ARCCH Model of Resilience. Attachment, Regulation, Competence, Culture, and Health are elements of personal and cultural identities, families, communities, and systems that can be used to evaluate strengths, identify areas that need support, and provide steps for culturally responsive and ecologically valid interventions. A multisystemic application of ARCCH is provided.
Ageing Well in Small Villages: What Keeps Older Adults Happy? Environmental Indicators of Residential Satisfaction in Four Dutch Villages
Authors: Moor Nienke J. A. , Hamers Kim , Mohammadi Masi
Published: March 2022

This article aims to contribute to the existing literature about liveability in rural areas by explicitly focusing on the level of residential satisfaction of older adults (55+) in four small Dutch villages. We strive not only to identify the key indicators of residential satisfaction among older villagers but also to better understand how these indicators affect their (daily) life. Moreover, in line with the person–environment fit tradition, we differentiate according to the capabilities and vulnerabilities of older villagers. To this end, we use a mixed-method approach, in which we combine survey data with qualitative data collected with photovoice in the four villages. The findings indicate that older adults’ perceptions of spatial, social and functional aspects of the living environment are related to the degree of residential satisfaction overall. However, these perceptions appear to be strongly intertwined, especially perceptions about spatial characteristics, local identity and connectedness. Older adults who are hindered by health problems in undertaking daily activities experience a lower level of person–environment fit, which is reflected in a lower level of residential satisfaction. However, this relationship between subjective health and residential satisfaction can only be partially explained by different perceptions of the spatial, social and functional environment.
Physicochemical, Nutritional, Microstructural, Surface and Sensory Properties of a Model High-Protein Bars Intended for Athletes Depending on the Type of Protein and Syrup Used
Authors: Małecki Jan , Terpiłowski Konrad , Nastaj Maciej , Sołowiej Bartosz G.
Published: March 2022

The main objective of this study was to investigate the possibility of using a combination of vegetable proteins from soybean (SOY), rice (RPC), and pea (PEA) with liquid syrups: tapioca fiber (TF), oligofructose (OF), and maltitol (ML) in the application of high-protein bars to determine the ability of these ingredients to modify the textural, physicochemical, nutritional, surface properties, microstructure, sensory parameters, and technological suitability. Ten variants of the samples were made, including the control sample made of whey protein concentrate (WPC) in combination with glucose syrup (GS). All combinations used had a positive effect on the hardness reduction of the bars after the storage period. Microstructure and the contact angle showed a large influence on the proteins and syrups used on the features of the manufactured products, primarily on the increased hydrophobicity of the surface of samples made of RPC + ML, SOY + OF, and RPC + TF. The combination of proteins and syrups used significantly reduced the sugar content of the product. Water activity (<0.7), dynamic viscosity (<27 mPas∙g/cm3), and sensory analysis (the highest final ratings) showed that bars made of RPC + OF, SOY + OF, and SOY + ML are characterized by a high potential for use in this type of products.
A Fresh Look at Mouthwashes—What Is Inside and What Is It For?
Authors: Radzki Dominik , Wilhelm-Węglarz Marta , Pruska Katarzyna , Kusiak Aida , Ordyniec-Kwaśnica Iwona
Published: March 2022

Mouthwashes are a very popular additional oral hygiene element and there are plenty of individual products, whose compositions are in a state of flux. The aim of our study was to investigate the compositions of mouthwashes and their functions, as well as to discuss their effectiveness in preventing and curing oral diseases and side effects. We searched for mouthwashes available on the market in Poland. We identified 241 individual mouthwash products. The extraction of compositions was performed and functions of the ingredients were assessed. Then, analysis was performed. The evaluation revealed that there are plenty of ingredients, but a typical mouthwash is a water–glycerine mixture and consists of additional sweetener, surfactant, preservative, and some colourant and flavouring agent, as well as usually having two oral health substances, anticaries sodium fluoride and antimicrobial essential oils. The effectiveness or side effects of several substances of mouthwashes were thoroughly discussed. We recommend not multiplying individual mouthwash products and their ingredients beyond medical or pharmaceutical necessity, especially without scientific proof.
Testing a New Protocol of Nature-Based Intervention to Enhance Well-Being: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Ho Po Lam , Li Tsz Wai , Liu Huinan , Yeung Tsun Fung , Hou Wai Kai
Published: March 2022

This study aims to test the associations of nature contact with multiple dimensions of psychological functioning. A total of 90 university employees were randomly assigned to spend their lunch breaks on (1) a 30-min structured protocol of nature contact and (2) a control group for 10 consecutive weekdays. Psychological distress, psychological well-being, and work-related psychological outcomes were assessed at baseline (T1), the day after the 10-day intervention (T2), and three months after the intervention (T3). Mixed-design analyses of variance (ANOVA) were conducted. Overall, significant intervention effects were found in the structured protocol of nature contact on psychological distress, well-being outcomes, and work engagement (all p < 0.05), whereas the 3-month post-intervention effects were non-significant. Our study showed that nature-based activities during lunch breaks could enhance office workers’ mental health in general, but the effects could be short-lived, calling for regular nature-based programs in occupational settings.