bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are Socialized Services of Agricultural Green Production Conducive to the Reduction in Fertilizer Input? Empirical Evidence from Rural China
Authors: Yang Chunfang , Zeng Hengyuan , Zhang Yifeng
Published: November 2022

Reducing the use of chemical fertilizers in agricultural production is an inevitable requirement for achieving carbon neutrality and coping with global warming, and it is also an important measure for achieving green and sustainable agricultural development. Furthermore, the development of socialized services of green production provides a new approach to effectively reducing the use of fertilizers. Based on the survey data of 2202 rice growers in Jiangsu Province in 2021, this paper empirically analyzed the effects of socialized services of green production and social network on the reduction in fertilizer application by farmers. The results showed that both the socialized services of green production and social networks could significantly promote the reduction in fertilizer application by farmers. Social networks have a moderating effect between socialized services of green production and reduction in fertilizer application and can enhance the promotion of farmers’ adoption of socialized services of green production to reduce the application of fertilizers. With consideration of the potential endogenous problems of the model and the robustness test by replacing the key explanatory variables and the explained variables, all of the results were stable. Therefore, it is emphasized that the government should cultivate the main body of agricultural socialized services, improve the socialized service system of green production, and promote the green development of agriculture by service scale operation. Equally, it is necessary to strengthen the construction of rural social networks for the exchange of fertilization experience and give full play to the positive role of social networks in the reduction in fertilizer application by farmers.
Aging in the Right Place for Older Adults Experiencing Housing Insecurity: An Environmental Assessment of Temporary Housing Program
Authors: Mahmood Atiya , Patille Rachelle , Lam Emily , Mora Diana Juanita , Gurung Shreemouna , Bookmyer Gracen , Weldrick Rachel , Chaudhury Habib , Canham Sarah L.
Published: November 2022

Research on programs offering senior-specific housing supports and enabling “aging in the right place” (AIRP) for “older persons with experiences of homelessness” (OPEH) is limited. This paper presents an environmental assessment of a “transitional housing program” (THP) in Metro Vancouver, Canada, for OPEH to AIRP. Data were collected using Aging in the Right Place Environmental (AIRP-ENV) and Secondary Observation (AIRP-ENV-SO) audit tools designed to evaluate multi-unit housing for OPEH. The 241-item AIRP-ENV tool was used to assess the built environmental features of four multi-unit buildings of the THP. The AIRP-ENV-SO tool was used to collect contextual data on the function, safety, and land use of the surrounding neighborhood. Findings identified built environment and urban design features that support THP residents’ safety, security, accessibility, functionality, social activity, autonomy, and identity. The THP buildings were rated ‘Good’ for accessibility, functionality, autonomy and identity, while ‘Satisfactory’ or ‘Poor’ for safety, security, and social activity. Findings point to the built environmental features (e.g., size and layout of spaces) required in the THP to create opportunities for increased social engagement among residents and enhanced safety and security. The AIRP-ENV and AIRP-ENV-SO audit tools can help inform programs across the housing continuum to develop supportive built environments that promote AIRP for OPEH.
Development of a Japanese Healthy Diet Index: The Fukushima Health Management Survey 2011
Authors: Ma Enbo , Ohira Tetsuya , Yasumura Seiji , Hosoya Mitsuaki , Miyazaki Makoto , Okazaki Kanako , Nagao Masanori , Hayashi Fumikazu , Nakano Hironori , Eguchi Eri , Funakubo Narumi , Shimabukuro Michio , Yabe Hirooki , Maeda Masaharu , Ohto Hitoshi , Kamiya Kenji
Published: November 2022

A novel healthy diet index for dietary quality can be used to assess food intake. After the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, the Fukushima Health Management Survey collected dietary data using a short-form food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The current study included eligible participants (n = 64,909) aged 16–84 years who answered the FFQ in 2011. The year- and sex-specific dietary patterns were determined via principal component analysis. Based on the typical Japanese, juice/dairy, and meat patterns, healthy diet index (HDI) scores were assigned for food items, resulting in Spearman’s correlation coefficients of 0.730, −0.227, and −0.257, respectively. The mean (standard deviation) of the HDI scores (range: 1–18) were 9.89 (2.68) in men and 9.96 (2.58) in women. Older individuals, women, nonsmokers, those in good health and with regular physical exercise, and those who did not transfer residences had a high HDI score. In the confirmatory analysis, the adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of the highest vs. the lowest quartiles of HDI scores was 0.87 (0.80, 0.94) for overweight, 0.89 (0.81, 0.97) for large waist circumference, and 0.73 (0.66, 0.80) for dyslipidemia. The HDI score obtained using the FFQ can be applied to evaluate dietary profiles.
Using Moralization as a Persuasion Strategy in Public Health Messages: A Cross-Sectional, Experimental Study on Vaping
Authors: Arhiri Laura , Gherman Mihaela Alexandra , Holman Andrei Corneliu
Published: November 2022

Using moralization in anti-vaping public health messages as a persuasion strategy was recently recommended to address the current vaping epidemic. However, previous findings indicated this could lead to moralized attitudes in the general population, which can be very difficult to change and could severely affect social cohesion and distort risk perception. Since the safety and efficiency of using electronic cigarettes as smoking cessation devices are still being investigated, we conducted a cross-sectional, experimental study on a convenience sample of 612 Romanian never vapers, never smokers to assess how exposure to moralizing public health messages about vaping might influence their trust in future scientific results about this topic. Participants were randomized into six groups according to the type of message (“moral,” “immoral,” “neutral”) and the type of effects of vaping on smokers’ health, documented in a future fictitious study (“health benefits,” “health risks”). Results showed that the type of message moderated trust in future scientific results after controlling for participants’ general trust in science. When vaping was framed as immoral, trust in future scientific results showing health benefits was decreased, and vice versa. Implications are discussed for using moralization strategically in public health messaging to curtail or promote certain health behaviors.
Evaluation of Synchronous and Asynchronous Telemedical Applications in Primary Care in Rural Regions of Northern Germany—Results and Lessons Learned from a Pilot Study
Authors: Waschkau Alexander , Traulsen Pia , Steinhäuser Jost
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: Telemedical applications (TAs) that are centered around General practitioners’ (GP) practices could be beneficial for patients in rural areas in order to better their access to care. This could become more and more relevant as specialists favor practicing in more urban regions, leaving GPs as the first medical contact of patients in rural areas. (2) Methods: Three TAs, one synchronous, one asynchronous and one used in delegation were implemented and evaluated in ten GP practices and two specialists’ practices in rural areas of northern Germany. (3) Results: Overall satisfaction with the TAs was generally high. GPs as well as specialists were especially satisfied with asynchronous TAs. A number of valuable “Lesson learned” were obtained and can be used as recommendations for further studies, e.g., taking time to identify market-ready technologies prior to implementation, developing dedicated trainings for users, and preparation of a technical support plan. Overall, the benefits of the TAs were rated high for the patients by the medical professionals. (4) Conclusion: Especially asynchronous TAs that are based on existing technology can be successfully implemented into a developing digital health care system such as the one in Germany. The impact on treatment of those TAs needs to be further investigated.
The Cost-Effectiveness of the SMART Work & Life Intervention for Reducing Sitting Time
Authors: Cox Edward , Walker Simon , Edwardson Charlotte L. , Biddle Stuart J. H. , Clarke-Cornwell Alexandra M. , Clemes Stacy A. , Davies Melanie J. , Dunstan David W. , Eborall Helen , Granat Malcolm H. , Gray Laura J. , Healy Genevieve N. , Maylor Benjamin D. , Munir Fehmidah , Yates Thomas , Richardson Gerry
Published: November 2022

Sedentary behaviours continue to increase and are associated with heightened risks of morbidity and mortality. We assessed the cost-effectiveness of SMART Work & Life (SWAL), an intervention designed to reduce sitting time inside and outside of work, both with (SWAL-desk) and without (SWAL-only) a height-adjustable workstation compared to usual practice (control) for UK office workers. Health outcomes were assessed in quality-adjusted life-years (QALY) and costs in pound sterling (2019–2020). Discounted costs and QALYs were estimated using regression methods with multiply imputed data from the SMART Work & Life trial. Absenteeism, productivity and wellbeing measures were also evaluated. The average cost of SWAL-desk was £228.31 and SWAL-only £80.59 per office worker. Within the trial, SWAL-only was more effective and costly compared to control (incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER): £12,091 per QALY) while SWAL-desk was dominated (least effective and most costly). However, over a lifetime horizon, both SWAL-only and SWAL-desk were more effective and more costly than control. Comparing SWAL-only to control generated an ICER of £4985 per QALY. SWAL-desk was more effective and costly than SWAL-only, generating an ICER of £13,378 per QALY. Findings were sensitive to various worker, intervention, and extrapolation-related factors. Based on a lifetime horizon, SWAL interventions appear cost-effective for office-workers conditional on worker characteristics, intervention cost and longer-term maintenance in sitting time reductions.
Comprehensive Assessment of Tailing Dumps’ Impact on Water Quality of Rivers, Lakes, and Wells from Mining Areas
Authors: Murarescu Ovidiu , Radulescu Cristiana , Dulama Ioana Daniela , Muratoreanu George , Pehoiu Gica , Stirbescu Raluca Maria , Bucurica Ioan Alin , Stanescu Sorina Geanina , Ionescu Constantin Aurelian , Banica Andreea Laura
Published: November 2022

This study is the third in a series of investigations conducted by the authors, and certainly the most comprehensive research regarding the former uranium, copper, and charcoal mines from a particular geographical area of Romania. In this respect, the present scientific incursion focused on two areas containing former extraction uranium ore sites, Ciudanovita and Lisava, as well as copper ore from Moldova Noua and charcoal mines from Anina, Banat Region, Romania. It highlighted that, for the first time, the heavy metal concentration was correlated with the values of physicochemical indicators of water (i.e., EC, DO, pH, resistivity, salinity, and ORP), by using multivariate analysis, to shape a regional based model on spatial distributions and the variability of toxic contaminants from the hydrographic basin of Banat, Romania, as a consequence of former uranium, copper, and charcoal mines. In this regard, 11 metals including Al, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Co, Cu, Zn, Sr, Cd, and Pb from different water samples (well, spring, river, and lake), collected from three mining areas (uranium, copper, and coal mines) were investigated. Non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks of seven heavy metals were assessed using the EDI, DIM, and THQ. The obtained THQ values were within the acceptable limits for cancer risks for adults, but as regards children, eight samples out of 18 proved toxic. However, the HRI and THQ average values for Cd (0.265 adults/0.996 children) and Pb (0.025 adults/0.095 children) for children were 3–4 times higher than those for adults. This is a source of concern as their prevalence in well water exposes children and residents in the Banat Region to the risk of various types of cancers.
Cultivated Land Input Behavior of Different Types of Rural Households and Its Impact on Cultivated Land-Use Efficiency: A Case Study of the Yimeng Mountain Area, China
Authors: Yu Yuanhe , Lin Jinkuo , Zhou Peixiang , Zheng Shuwei , Li Zijun
Published: November 2022

Analyzing cultivated land input behavior (CLIB) at the scale of rural households links with cultivated land-use efficiency (CLUE), this study examined the Yimeng Mountain area in northern China, supported by field survey data from 737 rural households. This research systematically analyzed the characteristics of CLIB of different types of rural households, measured the CLUE of different types of rural households by using a data envelopment analysis (DEA) model, and explored the influence of CLIB on CLUE based on the Tobit regression model. The results show (1) significant differences in the characteristics of the CLIB of different types of rural households in the Yimeng Mountain area. Among them, the highest land, labor, and capital inputs were I part-time rural households (I PTRH), followed by full-time rural households (FTRH). In contrast, II part-time rural households (II PTRH) and non-agricultural rural households (NARH) had higher levels of non-agricultural employment; however, their input levels gradually declined. (2) The CLUE of the sample rural households was generally low and had considerable potential for improvement. Regarding the types of rural households, as the degree of part-time employment increased, the CLUE showed an inverted U-shaped trend of first increased and then decreased, namely, I PTRH > FTRH > II PTRH > NARH. This finding indicates that appropriate part-time employment could help to promote investment in agricultural production and improve the CLUE. (3) The CLIB of rural households had significant effects on CLUE; the literacy of the agricultural labor force, yield-increasing input per unit area, per capita household income, share of agricultural income, operation scale of cultivated land, effective irrigation rate of cultivated land, and soil and water conservation rate of cultivated land had positive effects on improving CLUE. Even so, there was still significant heterogeneity in the degree of influence of different rural household types. The study concluded with some policy recommendations from the perspective of different rural household types to provide references for optimizing farming inputs and improving CLUE.
Use of Alcohol, Cannabinoids, Psychostimulants, and Sedatives before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic among Students in 40 European Countries
Authors: Babicki Mateusz
Published: November 2022

In March 2020, the WHO announced the COVID-19 pandemic, which has been ongoing for over 2 years. To stop the spread of the virus, the governments of many countries decided to introduce reasonable social restrictions that were suitable for pandemic waves. This led to radical changes in people’s lives, especially among students, who are very active in society. Before COVID-19, being of student age was associated with the highest frequency of stimulants use. It is important to note that drugs are taken disparately in various areas. Therefore, using the Computer-Assisted Web Interview type of study, the impact of the pandemic on the use of alcohol, cannabinoids, psychostimulants (e.g., amphetamine, methamphetamine, ecstasy) and sedatives (e.g., zolpidem, zopiclone, alprazolam, lorazepam, etc.) was assessed among students from European countries. The questionnaire included single- and multiple-answer questions. The first part concerned sociodemographic questions, while the second included questions about the use of stimulants in the last 3 months prior to participation in the study. Distribution of the survey covered the period from 31 January 2016 to 30 April 2021. A total of 17,594 European students participated in the study. The vast majority of participants were women (80.4%) and students of non-medical universities (77.2%) living in Eastern European countries (86.1%). Of all students, 15,613 (89.6%) reported alcohol drinking, 2538 (14.1%) the use of cannabinoids, 650 (3.6%) psychostimulants, and 2252 (12.5%) sedatives in the past three months. It has been shown that women are far less likely to use alcohol (OR 0.81), psychostimulants (OR 0.44) and cannabinoids (OR 0.49), while they are more likely to use sedatives (OR 1.41). During the COVID-19 pandemic, the consumption of alcohol (OR 0.55) and psychostimulants (OR 0.72) decreased and that of sleep medications increased (OR 1.17). To conclude, the COVID-19 pandemic influenced the pattern of stimulants used by students in European countries. The restriction of social interactions contributed to the decrease in the consumption of alcohol and psychostimulants but increased the use of sedatives and the frequency of their use. Women were found to use sedatives more often, while men preferred to drink alcohol and use cannabinoids or psychostimulants. It has also been shown that students of Central and Eastern Europe more often use alcohol and sedatives, while in Southern European countries psychostimulants and cannabinoids are preferred.
Monkeypox Mysteries of the New Outbreak in Non-Endemic Areas
Authors: Antunes Francisco , Virgolino Ana
Published: November 2022

Monkeypox virus (MPXV) was declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) in mid-2022 to be a public health emergency of international concern, following its spread around the world after circulating in Western and Central Africa. This new outbreak is concentrated in men who have sex with men (MSM). Moreover, beyond the epidemiological change, compared with endemic countries, differences in clinical features and many other aspects have also been detected. These and other characteristics are unusual and still unclear. Based on the available data, the authors try to help to clarify some of the current major gaps in monkeypox knowledge to strengthen the outbreak response.
Identification of Socio-Economic Impacts as the Main Drivers of Carbon Stocks in China’s Tropical Rainforests: Implications for REDD+
Authors: Liu Guifang , Li Jie , Ren Liang , Lu Heli , Wang Jingcao , Zhang Yaxing , Zhang Cheng , Zhang Chuanrong
Published: November 2022

Active incentives or compensation measures plus conservation, sustainable management of forests, and enhancement of forest carbon stocks (denoted together as “REDD+”) should be adopted in developing countries to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions caused by deforestation and forest degradation. Identification and analysis of the driving forces behind carbon stocks are crucial for the implementation of REDD+. In this study, the principal component model and the stepwise linear regression model were used to analyze the social and economic driving forces of stocks in three important types of forest change: deforestation, forestland transformation, and forest degradation in China’s tropical rainforests of Xishuangbanna, based on the combination of satellite imagery and the normalized difference vegetation index. The findings show that there are different key driving forces that lead to carbon stock changes in the forest land conversion of Xishuangbanna. In particular, the agricultural development level is the main cause of emissions from deforestation, whereas poor performance of protection policies is the main cause of emissions from forest degradation. In contrast, the rural economic development interventions are significantly positive for emissions from forestland transformation. It is crucial to pay attention to distinguishing the driving forces behind carbon stock changes from forest degradation, deforestation, and transformation for optimizing REDD+ implementation and ensuring the effectiveness of REDD+.
Prevalence of Lyme Carditis in Patients with Atrioventricular Blocks
Authors: Kaczmarek Krzysztof A. , Szwabe Katarzyna , Urbanek Irmina , Ptaszynski Pawel , Strzelecki Aleksander , Wranicz Jerzy K. , Cygankiewicz Iwona
Published: November 2022

Infections with Borrelia may cause cardiac conduction system abnormalities, including atrioventricular blocks (AVBs). Therefore, we aimed to identify patients in whom Lyme carditis (LC) could be considered as the initial diagnosis among consecutive subjects who were referred for implantation of a permanent pacemaker due to symptomatic AVBs. To date, such a systematic evaluation has not been reported yet. Validation of the Suspicious Index for Lyme Carditis (SILC) in our study population was considered as an additional goal. We investigated consecutive patients with AVB admitted to our department for a pacemaker implantation. Serological diagnostic tests against Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (Bbsl) were performed in those with no obvious cardiac causes of AVB. The final study population consisted of 130 patients (80 M, mean age 67.4 ± 17.6). Lyme carditis was assumed as the initial diagnosis in 16 patients (12%) based on ABV and IgM Bbsl seropositivity. The patients with LC were younger and more frequently manifested constitutional symptoms of infection and fluctuating AVB. The highest prognostic value for identification of LC patients was obtained for the modified SILC, which included the following parameters: (1) age lower than 75 years; (2) risky outdoor activity and living in the countryside; (3) tick bite; (4) constitutional symptoms of Lyme disease; (5) erythema migrans; (6) male sex and (7) fluctuating atrioventricular block. We concluded that diagnostics for LC should be routinely considered in patients with advanced AVB. Modified SILC may identify the patients at risk of LC.
Acquired and Transmitted Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis among the Incarcerated Population and Its Determinants in the State of Paraná—Brazil
Authors: Santos Márcio Souza dos , Pieri Flávia Meneguetti , Berra Thaís Zamboni , Scholze Alessandro Rolim , Ramos Antônio Carlos Vieira , de Almeida Crispim Juliane , Giacomet Clóvis Luciano , Alves Yan Mathias , da Costa Fernanda Bruzadelli Paulino , Moura Heriederson Sávio Dias , Teibo Titilade Kehinde Ayandeyi , Alonso Jonas Bodini , Freitas Giselle Lima de , Arcêncio Ricardo Alexandre
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: Tuberculosis remains a public health problem in the world. The study analyzed the factors associated with drug-resistant tuberculosis in the prison population of the state of Paraná. (2) Methods: Ecological study of drug-resistant tuberculosis cases registered in the Paraná Information System, Brazil (2008 to 2018). We performed descriptive statistics of quantitative parameters calculated with absolute frequencies. Additionally, we used binary regression logistics, where the odds ratio with its respective confidence interval was calculated. (3) Results: Of the 653 cases registered as cases of tuberculosis in the incarcerated population, 98 were drug-resistant tuberculosis. We observed that educational level of up to 8 to 11 years of schooling, negative bacterial culture (test outcome) and no tobacco use were factors associated with the non-development of drug-resistant tuberculosis, while clinically confirmed pulmonary TB and positive sputum smear microscopy in the fourth month of follow-up showed an association for the development of drug resistance. (4) Conclusions: The study showed that clinically confirmed pulmonary TB and a positive sputum smear microscopy in the fourth month of follow-up were associated with drug-resistant tuberculosis.
Planktothrix agardhii versus Planktothrix rubescens: Separation of Ecological Niches and Consequences of Cyanobacterial Dominance in Freshwater
Authors: Lenard Tomasz , Poniewozik Małgorzata
Published: November 2022

Cyanobacteria dominate lakes under diverse trophic conditions. Of these, two harmful filamentous cyanobacterial species, namely Planktothrix agardhii and P. rubescens, occupy completely different ecological niches in which they can form dense populations. In the present study, we investigated the effects of environmental conditions on the growth and vertical distribution of these species in lakes of different trophic statuses. Moreover, we underscored certain inconveniences in the assessment of the ecological status of lakes according to the European Union Water Framework Directive. The highest biomass of P. agardhii was recorded in eutrophic lake at a depth of 0.5–1 m, under high light intensity. Meanwhile, the highest biomass of P. rubescens, at which the deep chlorophyll maximum was recorded, was observed in mesotrophic lakes at a depth of 11–12 m, often below the euphotic zone under very low light intensity. P. rubescens, but not P. agardhii, exerted a strong allelopathic effect on the diversity and biomass of phytoplankton. Moreover, both species utilised different dissolved nitrogen fractions for their growth; specifically, P. agardhii used ammonium nitrogen, whilst P. rubescens used nitrate nitrogen. Furthermore, dissolved phosphorus produced a potentially limiting effect on P. rubescens growth. Overall, the tested Polish PMPL, German PSI, and Estonian phytoplankton indices were indeed useful in the assessment of the ecological status of lakes, albeit limited to the eutrophic lake with a high biomass of cyanobacteria (P. agardhii) in the upper water layers. However, problems arose in the proper assessment of lakes with a high biomass of cyanobacteria (P. rubescens) with a deep chlorophyll maximum outside the range of the euphotic zone. In such cases, two of the tested indices, namely the Polish and German indices, allowed sample collection from the euphotic layers, which significantly affected the number of samples included in the calculation. Consequently, the correct calculation of the ecological status of the lake was uncertain. Only the Estonian index allowed for a sample collection from two to three thermal layers of water, including the bloom layer of P. rubescens. Hence, the Estonian index offered the best fit for calculations.
Pulmonary and Functional Rehabilitation Improves Functional Capacity, Pulmonary Function and Respiratory Muscle Strength in Post COVID-19 Patients: Pilot Clinical Trial
Authors: Hockele Luana Fagherazzi , Sachet Affonso João Vitor , Rossi Danusa , Eibel Bruna
Published: November 2022

Background: Patients affected by COVID-19 may develop an impaired lung function, with reduced lung capacities and volumes, respiratory muscle weakness, changes in radiographic and tomographic findings, limitations in exercising, decreased functional capacity, depression, anxiety and reduced quality of life. Thus, we aimed to analyze the effects of a pulmonary and functional rehabilitation program on the functional capacity, lung function and respiratory muscle strength in patients who were affected by COVID-19 syndrome. Methods: This is a pilot clinical trial, composed of post-COVID-19 patients with mild, moderate or severe involvement, in which, they underwent a pulmonary and functional rehabilitation program. Patients were evaluated for functional capacity by the 6 min walk test, pulmonary function by spirometry, respiratory muscle strength by manovacuometry, handgrip strength by dynamometry, quality of life by the COPD Assessment Test and functional status by the PCFS. After the initial assessments, the patients performed the rehabilitation protocol in 16 sessions (inspiratory muscle training, aerobic exercise and peripheral muscle strength) and, at the end, they were evaluated again. Results: A total of 29 patients completed the program (12.7 ± 2.7 sessions). The functional capacity increased in meters walked from 326.3 ± 140.6 to 445.4 ± 151.1 (p < 0.001), with an increase in the predicted value from 59.7% to 82.6% (p < 0.001). The lung function increased in liters from 2.9 ± 0.8 to 3.2 ± 0.8 (p = 0.004) for forced vital capacity and from 2.5 ± 0.7 to 2.7 ± 0.7 (p = 0.001) for forced expiratory volume in the first second. The respiratory muscle strength increased in cmH2O from 101.4 ± 46.3 to 115.8 ± 38.3 (p = 0.117) for inspiratory pressure and from 85.8 ± 32.8 to 106.7 ± 36.8 (p < 0.001) for expiratory pressure. Conclusions: The pulmonary and functional rehabilitation program provided an improvement in the functional capacity, pulmonary function and respiratory muscle strength in post-COVID-19 patients, restoring their quality of life.
Consistency of Delivery Mode Increases Chinese Mothers’ Maternal Satisfaction: The Effect of Perception of Support from Medical Staff and Mothers’ Self-Efficacy
Authors: Zhang Nan , An Shanshan
Published: November 2022

Maternal satisfaction is essential for women. Extant research has focused on how a practical delivery method effects maternal satisfaction. This article tried to explore the effect of the consistency of delivery mode between mothers’ expectations and their experience of maternal satisfaction and proposed the mediating effect of the perception of support from medical staff and the moderated mediation effect of maternal self-efficacy. Based on two studies, this article found that the consistency of the delivery mode has a positive effect on maternal satisfaction, and women’s perception of support from medical staff mediated the above relationship. The maternal perception of self-efficacy has a moderated mediation effect; specifically, for women with a high level of self-efficacy, the positive effect of the consistency of the delivery mode on maternal satisfaction through perception support from medical staff is stronger. This article highlights the importance of the consistency of the delivery mode between women’s expectations and the experience of maternal satisfaction and the psychological mechanisms involved. The results extend the theoretical research on ethics in childbirth and provide implications for improving women’s maternal satisfaction from medical staff and themselves.
The Feasibility and Impact of Practising Online Forest Bathing to Improve Anxiety, Rumination, Social Connection and Long-COVID Symptoms: A Pilot Study
Authors: McEwan Kirsten , Collett Harriet , Nairn Jean , Bird Jamie , Faghy Mark A. , Pfeifer Eric , Jackson Jessica E. , Cook Caroline , Bond Amanda
Published: November 2022

Background: Long-COVID affects over 144 million people globally. In the absence of treatments, there is a need to establish the efficacy of therapies that improve patient outcomes. Forest bathing has been demonstrated to improve physical and mental outcomes but there is no evidence in Long-COVID patients. Accordingly, this pilot study sought to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of online forest bathing in adults with Long-COVID. Methods: Feasibility was assessed by monitoring retention rates and participant feedback. In a waitlist controlled, repeated measures design, 22 Long-COVID patients completed weekly online surveys during a four-week waitlist control period, before engaging in four weekly online forest bathing sessions, completing post-intervention surveys following each session. Results: In terms of retention, 27% did not provide post-intervention data, reasons for non-adherence were: feeling too ill, having medical appointments, or having career responsibilities. Compared with the waitlist control period, there were statistically significant improvements in Anxiety (49% decrease), Rumination (48% decrease), Social Connection (78% increase), and Long-COVID symptoms (22% decrease). Written qualitative comments indicated that participants experienced feelings of calm and joy, felt more connected socially and with nature, and experienced a break from the pain and rumination surrounding their illness. Conclusions: Online Forest bathing resulted in significant improvements in well-being and symptom severity and could be considered an accessible and inexpensive adjunct therapy for Long-COVID patients. Where people have limited access to in-person nature, virtual nature may offer an alternative to improve health and well-being outcomes.
Comparisons of Trunk Motions and Low Back Injury Risk between Alternative Hotel Room Cleaning Methods
Authors: Allread W. Gary , Vossenas Pamela
Published: November 2022

Hotel room cleaners frequently report job-related pain, with high rates of work-related musculoskeletal disorder injuries established for this group of workers. Surprisingly, there is limited published research documenting the impact of interventions to reduce ergonomic-related injury risks specific to hotel room cleaners’ job tasks. In this study focused on hotel bathroom-cleaning and furniture-dusting tasks, twelve experienced hotel room cleaners used their standard method and a risk-reduction method—a tool with a handle that could extend, to perform these tasks. The female study participants’ average age was 45.3 (SD 8.7) years with an average of 10 years of work experience as cleaners (range: 0.8–26.0 years). Trunk kinematics and a low back injury risk assessment were measured using the Lumbar Motion Monitor. All study metrics were significantly reduced when cleaning tasks involved use of adjustable, long-handled tools (p < 0.05). This study demonstrated that commonly available cleaning and dusting tools with extendable handles can significantly reduce low back injury risk among hotel room cleaners and potentially reduce injury risk to other body parts known to be the site of musculoskeletal disorders in this workforce. The study findings suggest that cleaning or housekeeping jobs in other industries where these same tasks are performed could benefit from use of extended-handle tools like those investigated here.
Being Physically Active Leads to Better Recovery Prognosis for People Diagnosed with COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Gomide Euripedes Barsanulfo Gonçalves , Mazzonetto Lisa Fernanda , Cordeiro Jéssica Fernanda Corrêa , Cordeiro Daniella Corrêa , Oliveira Alcivandro de Sousa , Fioco Evandro Marianetti , Venturini Ana Claudia Rossini , Abdalla Pedro Pugliesi , Da Silva Leonardo Santos Lopes , Tasinafo Júnior Márcio Fernando , De Andrade Denise , Bohn Lucimere , Machado Dalmo Roberto Lopes , Dos Santos André Pereira
Published: November 2022

The regular practice of physical activity helps in the prevention and control of several non-communicable diseases. However, evidence on the role of physical activity in mitigating worsening clinical outcomes in people with COVID-19 is still unclear. The aim of this study was to verify whether different levels of physical activity provide protection for clinical outcomes caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 509 adults (43.8 ± 15.71 years; 61.1% female) with a positive diagnosis of COVID-19 residing in Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil. Participants were interviewed by telephone to determine the severity of the infection and the physical activity performed. Binary logistic regression was used to indicate the odds ratio (OR) of active people reporting less harmful clinical outcomes from COVID-19. Active people had a lower chance of hospitalization, fewer hospitalization days, less respiratory difficulty and needed less oxygen support. The results suggest that active people, compared to sedentary people, have a lower frequency of hospitalization, length of stay, breathing difficulty and need for oxygen support. These results corroborate the importance of public policies to promote the practice of physical activity, in order to mitigate the severity of the clinical outcomes of COVID-19.
Transition Interventions for Adolescents on Antiretroviral Therapy on Transfer from Pediatric to Adult Healthcare: A Systematic Review
Authors: Jegede Olubukola , van Wyk Brian
Published: November 2022

Globally, adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) experience poor health outcomes such as low retention in care, ART non-adherence and viral non-suppression. These outcomes coincide with the period during and after their transition from pediatric to adult healthcare. This study aimed to systematically describe the compendium of transition interventions and synthesize the effects of such transition interventions on adherence to ART, retention in care and viral load suppression. Seven databases and Google Scholar were searched and the review findings were reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items Stipulated for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. The risk of bias and the strength of evidence were assessed using the National Institutes of Health quality assessment tool for observational cohort and cross-sectional studies. Seven studies (two cross-sectional, two retrospective cohort and three prospective cohort studies), with sample sizes ranging from 13 to 192, were included in the narrative synthesis. There was high-quality evidence that these interventions—Individualized care plans, communication, psychological support, and health and sexual education and mHealth—improved adherence, retention in care and viral load suppression at post-transition over the short and long term. In contrast, group transition intervention produced weak quality evidence. Hence, transition interventions including a combination of the high-quality evidenced interventions mentioned above can improve treatment outcomes for adolescents on ART.
Factors Associated with Number of Prenatal Visits in Northeastern Brazil: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Teixeira Gracimary A. , Holanda Norrara S. O. , Azevedo Ingrid G. , Moura Julia R. , de Carvalho Jovanka B. L. , Pereira Silvana A.
Published: November 2022

The aim of this study is to assess factors associated with the number of prenatal visits of women who delivered in a public maternity hospital in northeastern Brazil. This cross-sectional study focused on 380 puerperal women who gave birth at a public maternity hospital in northeastern Brazil. Prenatal and perinatal data were collected in the immediate postpartum period by interviewing mothers and using medical records. Chi-square/Fisher exact test compared the data, and a logistic regression model estimated the association between birth weight and number of prenatal visits. As a result, the sample was composed of 175 women with <37 weeks of gestational age and 205 women with ≥37 weeks of gestational age. Women with less than four prenatal visits were more likely to give birth to low birth weight (<2500 g) and preterm infants (<37 weeks of gestational age) than those with more than four prenatal visits (p = 0.001). The subjects with less than four prenatal visits had a 2.76-fold higher odds of giving birth to infants weighing less than 2500 g (p = 0.03; 95%CI = 1.05–7.30), without relation to maternal and gestational ages. In conclusion, women with less than four prenatal visits had higher odds of giving birth to low birth infants, independently of maternal and gestational ages, and were more likely to give birth to premature babies.
Performance and Enhancement of Various Fillers Guiding Vanadium (V) Bioremediation
Authors: Hao Liting , Li Lin , Wang Bangyan , Wang Xinli , Shi Jinkai , Shi Chen , Hao Xiaodi
Published: November 2022

Bioremediation of vanadium (V) pollution in groundwater is an emerging topic. However, knowledge of V in a biogeochemical process is limited and long-term effective removal methods are lacking. V(V) remediation processes by various kinds of auxiliary fillers (maifanite-1, maifanite-2, volcanic rock, green zeolite and ceramsite), agricultural biomass and microbial enhancing were explored in this study. In tests without inocula, the V(V) removal efficiencies of ceramsite (inert filler) and maifanite-2 (active filler) were 84.9% and 60.5%, respectively. When inoculated with anaerobic sludge, 99.9% of V(V) could be removed with the synergistic performance of straw and maifanite-2. TOC (Total Organic Carbon), trace elements and three-dimensional fluorescence analyses confirmed that maifanite-2 was the most suitable among various fillers in biological V(V) removal systems with straw. This study provides a collaborative method (adsorption–biology) by using straw with maifanite-2 in V(V)-contaminated groundwater. The knowledge gained in this study will help develop permeable reactive barrier technology to repair polluted groundwater to put forward a reasonable, effective and sustainable environmental treatment strategy.
Comparison of the Effect of Endurance, Strength and Endurance-Strength Training on Glucose and Insulin Homeostasis and the Lipid Profile of Overweight and Obese Subjects: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jamka Małgorzata , Makarewicz-Bukowska Aleksandra , Bokayeva Kamila , Śmidowicz Angelika , Geltz Jakub , Kokot Marta , Kaczmarek Nina , Żok Agnieszka , Kononets Victoria , Cielecka-Piontek Judyta , Mądry Edyta , Walkowiak Jarosław
Published: November 2022

The most effective type of training to improve cardiometabolic parameters in overweight subjects is unknown. This meta-analysis compared the effect of endurance, strength and combined training on glucose, insulin metabolism and the lipid profile of overweight and obese adults. The Cochrane, PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases were searched to identify randomised trials assessing the effect of training intervention on fasting and 2 h glucose and insulin levels, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA), C-peptide, total cholesterol (TC), low- (LDL-C) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides (TG). Forty-six studies were included showing that endurance training more favourably reduced HbA1c (p = 0.044), and LDL-C (p = 0.021) than strength training. Endurance-strength training more effectively decreased glucose (p = 0.002), HbA1c (p = 0.032), HOMA (p = 0.002), TC (p = 0.039), LDL-C (p = 0.046), HDL (p = 0.036) and TG levels (p = 0.025) than strength training. Combined training significantly reduced the HOMA index (p = 0.009) and TG levels (p = 0.039) compared with endurance training. Endurance and endurance-strength training have a more favourable effect on glucose and insulin homeostasis and lipid profile than strength training in overweight and obese adults. However, the results from this meta-analysis should be interpreted cautiously due to significant heterogeneity among included studies.
Groundwater Quality Modeling and Mitigation from Wastewater Used in Irrigation, a Case Study of the Nile Delta Aquifer in Egypt
Authors: Abd-Elaty Isamil , Abd-Elmoneem Shaimaa M. , Abdelaal Gamal M. , Vrána Jakub , Vranayová Zuzana , Abd-Elhamid Hany F.
Published: November 2022

Groundwater is an essential freshwater source because traditional sources of freshwater, such as rainfall and rivers, are unable to provide all residential, industrial, and agricultural demands. Groundwater is replenished by different sources: rivers, canals, drains, and precipitation. This research aims to apply numerical models for a real case study (Bahr El Baqar drain) in the Eastern Nile aquifer to monitor groundwater quality due to the use of wastewater from drains directly in irrigation due to the shortage of freshwater in this area. In addition, the effect of over-pumping from the aquifer is studied to show the extent of contaminants in groundwater. Moreover, a management strategy was achieved through mixing treated wastewater with freshwater to reduce the contamination of groundwater and overcome water shortage. Visual MODFLOW is used to simulate groundwater flow and contaminant transport into the Eastern Nile aquifer (ENDA), Egypt. In this study, three stages including 15 scenarios (five scenarios for each stage) were settled to achieve the study objectives. The first stage was carried out to investigate the impact of using untreated wastewater for irrigation due to the shortage of freshwater in this area. The results of this stage showed that increasing the use of untreated wastewater increased the contamination of the aquifer. The average COD concentrations in the five scenarios reached 23.73, 33.76, 36.49, 45.13, and 53.15 mg/L. The second stage was developed to evaluate the impact of over-pumping and using untreated wastewater for irrigation due population increase and a reduction of freshwater in the Nile Delta. The results revealed that over-pumping has increased the contamination of the aquifer and the average COD concentrations increased to 25.3, 33.34, 40.66, 48.6, and 54.17 mg/L. The third stage was applied to investigate the impact of mixing treated wastewater with freshwater for irrigation to support the freshwater quantity. The results of this stage led to enhanced water quality in the aquifer and the average COD concentrations decreased to 20.26, 23.13, 26.03, 30, and 32.83 mg/L. The results showed that mixing freshwater with treated wastewater has a good influence on water quality, can be safely used in irrigation and reduces the effects on farmers’ health and life.
Lifestyle, Type of Work, and Temporary Disability: An Incidence Study of the Working Population
Authors: Jiménez-Mérida Rocío , Romero-Saldaña Manuel , de-Pedro-Jiménez Domingo , Alcaide-Leyva José Manuel , Cantón-Habas Vanesa , Álvarez-Fernández Carlos , Vaquero-Abellán Manuel
Published: November 2022

The objective of the study was to identify lifestyles associated with loss of health among workers. A retrospective longitudinal incidence study was carried out over a three-year period (2015, 2016, and 2017) among the working population. A total of 240 workers were analysed using information from occupational health assessments. The outcome variable was loss of health due to common illness or workplace injury, quantified by the number of days each episode lasted. Predictor variables were age, gender, type of work, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, physical activity (IPAQ), and adherence to the Mediterranean diet (AMD). An adjusted multiple linear regression was performed, determining the goodness of fit of the final model using the coefficient of determination adjusted r2. During the study, 104 men (58.8%) and 25 women (39.7%) suffered an episode of illness or workplace injury (p < 0.05). The overall incidence was 17.9% people/year 95% CI [15, 21.3]. 4.6% of the workers were sedentary or engaged in light physical activity, and 59.2% maintained an adequate AMD. Workers who engaged in high levels of physical activity had an average of 36.3 days of temporary disability compared to 64.4 days for workers with low-moderate levels of physical activity (p < 0.01).
Prevalence of Fast Food Intake among a Multi-Ethnic Population of Young Men and Its Connection with Sociodemographic Determinants and Obesity
Authors: AlTamimi Jozaa Z. , Alshwaiyat Naseem M. , Alkhalidy Hana , AlFaris Nora A. , AlKehayez Nora M. , Alsemari Malak A. , Alagal Reham I.
Published: November 2022

Fast food is commonly consumed by young adults. Eating fast food is connected with the risk of obesity and other related diseases. The present study examines the prevalence of fast food intake in a diverse sample of young men. This cross-sectional study included 3600 young men (20–35 years) who resided in Riyadh, KSA. The frequency of fast food intake was assessed using a valid and reliable questionnaire. Weekly and daily intake of fast food were the two outcome variables adopted to assess the intake frequency. Weight and height were measured. Fast food was eaten by 88.8% and 50.1% of participants weekly and daily, respectively. Fast food intake was predicted by the nationality of participants. The highest prevalence of weekly fast food intake (99.7%) was observed among Saudi, Egyptian, and Indian participants, while the lowest rate was observed among Sudanese participants (48.6%). The highest and lowest rates of daily intake were seen among Filipino (83.4%) and Bangladeshi (6.3%) participants. Obesity was another predictor of fast food intake. Obese participants had a significantly higher odds ratio of weekly (OR = 2.89, p = 0.006) and daily (OR = 1.39, p = 0.021) fast food intake than non-overweight/non-obese participants. In conclusion, fast food is frequently consumed by young men in KSA. Our findings link the likelihood of fast food intake to sociodemographic determinants and obesity.