bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Physical Activity Patterns of Primary School Teachers in a District in Istanbul, Turkey
Authors: Surmen A , Ay P , Hidiroglu S , Karavus M 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
Physical inactivity (PI) is determined as the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality. Insufficient physical activity is prevalent in Turkey; approximately 4 in 10 adults are physically inactive and have less than 150 minutes of moderate activity per week. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of PI and the factors associated with it among primary school teachers in a district in Istanbul, Turkey.

Methods
This was a cross-sectional study conducted in a district in Istanbul, Turkey. Sample size was calculated as 434 assuming a PI prevalence of 70% with a 95% confidence level, margin of error of 0.05 and a design effect of 2. Twenty out of 39 schools were selected randomly. PI was assessed through using International Physical Activity Questionnaire short form. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the variables associated with PI.

Results
A total of 345 teachers participated in the study (response rate: 79.5%). Among the participants the mean age was 45.6± 8.3 and %74.1 were women. PI prevalence was 49.2% (95%CI: 43.6%-54.7%). PI was significantly associated with having chronic disease (OR: 1.8, 95%CI:1.0-3.0), having children (OR: 2.9, 95%CI:1.5-5.7), using motor vehicles for transportation (OR:4.1, 95%CI:1.5-11.0) and using elevators (OR:4.4, 95%CI:1.7-11.4). Among women, PI was significantly associated with having children (OR: 10.3, %95CI:1.2-87.1) and using elevators (OR: 8.4, 95%CI: 2.3-30.8).

Conclusions
Approximately half of the teachers were physically inactive. As having children is an important determinant of PI, we need to adopt appropriate conditions so that parents, particularly women can engage in physical activity together with their children. Active transportation and use of elevators should be encouraged. Special attention should be paid to adults having chronic diseases.

Key messages
PI is highly prevalent among school teachers, particularly among the ones who have chronic diseases. Strategies supporting parents especially women to engage in physical activity together with their children, encouraging active transportation and use of elevators should be implemented.
Improving participation of hard-to-reach older people in diet interventions: the INVITE strategy
Authors: Bocquier A , Dubois C , Verger P , Darmon N ,   INVITE study group
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
A lot of behavioural interventions promoting healthy eating and physical activity are focusing older people, but, among them, individuals from low socioeconomic status and/or experiencing social isolation participate less. The aim of the present study was to design, pilot and perform a formative evaluation of an active recruitment strategy called ’INVITE’. This strategy aimed to improve participation of hard-to-reach older people in existing collective workshops combining diet and physical activities dedicated to older people.

Methods
We co-constructed this strategy, based on results from a literature review, qualitative interviews with older people and professionals using the Behaviour Change Wheel framework as a guide. INVITE includes 5 steps: i) identification of socially deprived/isolated people aged 60-85 years in retirement fund databases; ii) postal invitation letter; iii) phone call; iv) home visit by a social worker. The formative evaluation used questionnaires (closed and open-ended questions) completed by 2 social workers in April 2019.

Results
Among the 54 older people selected in the databases, 29 could be reached by phone. Among these 29 persons, 25 reported being interested by the collective workshops; 17 refused the home visit (main reasons: not available during the workshops period, current health problems); 12 accepted the home visit, but only 10 could be visited at home (one was ill; one cancelled the visit). Nine out of these 10 persons accepted to participate to the workshops. The main motivating factors were that workshops were: free; perceived as friendly; and as an opportunity to “go out” and to receive diet counselling to improve diet quality with no additional cost.

Conclusions
The INVITE strategy was perceived positively but adjustments are needed to improve home visits acceptation rate (e.g., by revising the criteria used to identify people in the databases). We will now evaluate the attendance rate to the collective workshop.

Key messages
The INVITE strategy was designed to improve participation of hard-to-reach older people in combined diet and physical activity collective workshops. This strategy was perceived positively by most older people contacted and both social workers.
Romanian students’ attitude and opinion about the smoke-free indoors law
Authors: Prejbeanu I M , Pita O , Cara M L 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

The Romanian Parliament approved the first piece of legislation regarding smoking in public places in 2002; smoking was banned in most indoors but allowed in bars and restaurants. The law has been amended several times; the 2016 amendment banned smoking in nearly all indoor public spaces, in indoor workplaces, in playgrounds and on public transport; there are only two exceptions to the law - cells in maximum security prisons and designated rooms in the transit areas of international airports.
In this context, we asked 498 students (in Law, Business Administration, Electronics, Languages, Sciences, Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy or Nursing), aged 21.93 ± 4.21 years, males and females, to answer a 23-item questionnaire on cigarettes smoking; the questionnaire included seven questions related to the Romanian smoke-free indoors law.
A number of 131 students (26.3%) are cigarettes-smokers; there are statistically significant differences among the faculties subgroups (p &lt; 0.01), the highest percent of smokers being in Dentistry (50%) and the lowest - in Languages (13%). Most of the students (N = 466 - 93.6%) agree with the smoke-free indoors law; the disagreement is registered among the smokers (27 vs. 5 non-smokers, p &lt; 0.001). A number of 360 subjects (72.29%) mention they met situations of smoking in public places: in bars/clubs/restaurants (73.3%), staircases of blocks of flats (56.1%), public transport or taxis (44.1%), even hospitals (8.3%) and classrooms (7.7%). In 75.8% out of these situations nobody took attitude; 40 students (11.1%) acted themselves and drew attention (most often successfully) to the smokers about breaking the law. One fifth of the smokers of the group have also smoked/intended to smoke in public places; most of them are students in Electronics and just one - in Law (p &lt; 0.05).
Romanian students seem to be content with the ban of indoor smoking. Actions to reduce consumption of tobacco products and to protect public health have to be continued.

Key messages
Romanian young people seem to be content with the decrease of second hand smoke in indoor public spaces. Intense actions to combat the tobacco epidemic are still needed in Romania.
Sleep problems among Dutch higher educational students, working towards solutions
Authors: Van Der Heijde C , Van Weeren M , Vonk P 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
Lately, attention for the role of sleep in health and wellbeing has increased. Short sleep duration and poor quality of sleep are associated with a higher chance at several (mental) health issues, including a higher mortality risk. Furthermore it is associated with attention problems and lower academic achievement. Poor sleep has a high prevalence, especially among students. We aim to provide (policy) recommendations from studying the associated factors on an individual and social level with poor sleep and its consequences.

Methods
In a cross-sectional survey design (N = 493), the extent of sleep problems and its associated factors was studied amongst a group of Dutch students. The Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used. Linear regression analysis was performed. Participants were recruited through social media and e-mail (Male 43%; Female 57%; mean age, 22 years).
Additionally, experts were questioned in a small survey to come up with solutions (N = 24).

Results
59% of higher educational students suffer from poor sleep quality. Factors that were significantly associated with worse sleep quality were: sleep need, behavior and psychology (effects stress overload), having a paid job in the evening/night, loneliness, having the Chinese and other ethnicity and having a sleep-related disorder. Sleep was significantly associated with worse mental health, vitality and drug use. Additionally, sleep was a significant predictor for attention problems and worse academic performance in the current academic year.

Conclusions
Nearly 2 out of 3 students suffered from poor sleep quality, reconfirming the high prevalence amongst higher educational students in other studies. Universities can contribute to better sleep quality of their students by educating their students more about sleep hygiene (including effects of drugs and how to deal with high work pressures), and make them more aware of the availability of student psychologists and student general practitioners.

Key messages
Students in higher education are a population at high risk for poor sleep quality. More attention for the importance of sleep for health, wellbeing and academic achievements should be implemented in the university institutional context.
Evolution of Healthcare-associated infections over five years: results of prevalence surveys
Authors: Ghali H , Ben Cheikh A , Bhiri S , Khefacha Aissa S , Dhidah L , Ben Rejeb M , Said Latiri H 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
Tunisia is not spared from the scourge of healthcare associated infections (HAIs). National surveys on the prevalence of HAIs on a given day have regularly taken place in health facilities. We aimed to describe bacteriological profile as well as treatment modalities of HAIs in Sahloul Hospital for the last five years.

Methods
We conduct every year a prevalence survey, as part of the program for the prevention and control of HAI at Sahloul Hospital. It is a cross-sectional study of one-day prevalence with a single pathway. All departments were included in the survey, except emergency and hemodialysis services due to their very short length of stay. Data collection was carried out using NosoTun plug (national HAI prevalence survey).

Results
Over five years, prevalence of HAI ranged from 11.4% in 2014 to 7.1% in 2018. In 2014, bacteriological analysis was performed in 55.8% of HAI cases. In 66.6% of cases (n = 16), isolated bacteria were gram negative bacilli, the most frequent were Pseudomonas aeroginosa. In 2015, 17 germs were identified, and in 88.2% of cases (n = 5), isolated pathogens were also gram-negative bacilli, the most frequent were Pseudomonas aeroginosa (n = 4) and Acinetoobacter baumanii (n = 3). Besides, cephalosporin 3rd generation was the most frequent antibiotic used for the treatment. However, in 2016, Klebsiella Pneumoniae was the most frequent germ isolated. Among those infected patients, 26 were treated (92.8%). In 2017, 26 germs were identified, the most frequent were Gram Negative Bacilli (53.8%), mostly Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aerginosa, followed by Acinetobacter baumanii. in 2018, 16 germs were identified, the most frequent were Gram Negative Bacilli (55.5%), mostly Klebsiella Pneumoniae.

Conclusions
The challenges for the future are to minimize infection with gram-negative bacilli while limiting the emergence of antibiotic resistant organisms.

Key messages
Our study helped us to have an insight into the most common isolates identified throughout the last five years. An incidence survey was carried out to better highlight the impact of healthcare associated infections in our hospital.
A systematic review of prediction models used in tuberculosis contact tracing
Authors: Kidy F , Bruno-McClung E , Shantikumar S , Proto W , Oyebode O 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
Contact tracing forms a key part of tuberculosis (TB) control in high-income, low-incidence settings. It aims to reduce morbidity, mortality and onward transmission of TB. Contact tracing is a complex and resource intensive intervention. Risk assessment of contacts is needed to ensure appropriate allocation of resources and greatest possible impact. Current prioritisation procedures are based on expert opinion and consensus. Prognostic prediction models offer a way to synthesise evidence about this decision.

Methods
We searched Medline, Embase, BNI, CINAHL, HMIC, and the Cochrane Library for peer reviewed publications in English about TB contact tracing prediction models. Studies were included if there was statistical combination of predictors. No date, age or other restrictions were applied. Study selection was carried out by two independent reviewers. Data were extracted using the CHARMS checklist and studies evaluated for risk of bias using PROBAST.

Results
Five reports were selected from a total of 16,585 non-identical returns. Each study was carried out in demographically distinct settings (Peru, USA, France, Taiwan). The choice and definition of outcomes and predictors varied. All the models included external validation and some included internal validation. Calibration and discrimination measures were variably reported. The models were at high risk of bias due to challenges in defining TB disease and due to statistical approaches taken: there was poor reporting of sample size considerations, universal use of univariable analysis to select predictors, and dichotomisation of data. There were some concerns about applicability due to differing populations and diagnostic approaches. None of the models included social risk factors.

Conclusions
The use of existing models is problematic. There are constraints upon resources which means that contact tracing needs to be carried out efficiently. A robust prediction model is urgently needed to achieve this.

Key messages
Contact tracing for tuberculosis would benefit from more robust prioritisation tools to save resources and increase impact. Existing prognostic prediction models are at high risk of bias and there are concerns about applicability in high-income, low-incidence settings.
Measles situation in Ukraine during the period 2017-2019
Authors: Rodyna R 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
Measles remains a significant cause of death among children globally, despite the availability of effective vaccine. While global measles deaths have decreased by 84% worldwide from 2000 to 2016, measles is still common in many countries, particularly in Africa and Asia: during 2016 7 million people were affected. In Ukraine 12,000 people suffered from measles in 2012. The last outbreak in Ukraine started in 2017, continued in 2018 and it is ongoing in 2019. Totally about 100,000 people fell ill, 31 died and it is one of the biggest outbreaks in Europe in the last 20 years. Our work was aimed to analyze the measles outbreak in Ukraine and find out its causes in 2017-2019.

Methods
We conducted an analysis of measles incidences in Ukraine during the period 2017 - 2019 using analytical and epidemiological methods.

Results
The number of reported measles cases was: in 2017 - 4782 in 2018 - 53,219, 3 month of 2019 - 34,188. In 2016 the number of measles cases was 102. The incidence rates of measles per 100,000 population were: in 2016 - 0,24; in 2017 - 11,2; in 2018 - 125,2; in 2019 (3 month) - 80,4. Comparatively to the 2016 incidence rates increased 46 times in 2017 and 521 times in 2018. The percentage of children among suffered people was: in 2017 - 66,6%; in 2018 - 55,3%; in 2019 - 47,8%. According to the national vaccination schedule, 1 dose of MMR (MMR1) vaccine children get in 12-month age, the second dose (MMR2) - in 6-years age. Vaccination coverage of MMR1 and MMR2 vaccines has significantly decreased during the period 2008-2016 from 96% to 45% due to challenges in the procurement of vaccines in the country and antivaccination campaigns.

Conclusions
Measles epidemic situation was caused by accumulation of a significant pockets of non-immune population.

Key messages
Measles epidemic situation was caused by accumulation of a significant pockets of non-immune population. The robust supplementary vaccination campaign among children and adult will allow to overcome measles outbreak in Ukraine.
Influenza vaccine among future health care workers: a cohort study on Italian medical students
Authors: Corradi A , Bert F , Pompili E , Catozzi D , Hordila A , Voglino G , Gualano M R , Siliquini R 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
Flu vaccination rates among health workers remain low and very variable between European countries despite the recommendations. Medical schools could be the best phase to educate health workers toward flu vaccine. This study aims to evaluate flu vaccine “prejudice” and vaccine hesitancy in medical students (MSs).

Methods
In 2018/19 flu season a cohort study was conducted at the School of Medicine of Turin, parallel to the flu vaccination campaign. Students were surveyed for sociodemographic variables, knowledge, attitudes and practices toward vaccination, adverse reactions, overall satisfaction toward received vaccination. Data was collected from 377 students. Multivariable logistic regressions were performed. The significance level was p ≤ 0.05.

Results
Females were 70% and median age was 24 (IQR 22.5-25). The 73.2% of the sample was vaccinated in the campaign, although the 60% of this had never been vaccinated before. Poor knowledge on flu vaccine, both self- and objectively assessed, was associated with lower vaccination rate (OR 0.23, p = 0.006; OR 0.15, p &lt; 0.001 respectively). Vaccination was more likely in those who had been vaccinated in the last 3 years (OR 9.14, p &lt; 0.001). Among non-vaccinated students, most frequent reasons to not undergo vaccination was not feeling at risk of contagion (48%). Vaccine decreased flu prevalence (OR 0.33, p = 0.039). Among vaccinated students, the persuasion that vaccination should be mandatory for health workers (OR 5.91, p = 0.039) was associated with higher vaccine satisfaction score while self-diagnosis of flu was associated with a lower score (OR 0.009, p &lt; 0.001).

Conclusions
Lack of flu vaccination among health workers increases flu prevalence and multiplies possible carriers in health facilities. European Medical Schools should start yearly vaccination campaigns to promote good habits in MSs. In parallel, more must be done to teach MSs the benefits of flu vaccination and thus increasing willingness to being vaccinated.

Key messages
Feeling poorly informed and being poorly informed about influenza vaccine significatively decrease likeliness of vaccination in medical students. Students do not feel at risk of contagion. Influenza vaccine uptake is a habitual behavior that should be promoted as early as possible among European health workers, possibly during Medical School.
Community engagement in public health emergency preparedness
Authors: Takacs J , Ciotti M , Tsolova S , Wiltshire E , Baka A , Kinsman J , de Vries D , Cremers L , Rios M , Angrén J 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
Communities that could be affected by infectious disease outbreaks are increasingly recognised as resources that may be effectively utilized by the authorities during public health emergencies.

Methods
This case study project, aiming to identify synergies between communities and authorities, was based on qualitative sources of evidence, including document and media review, stakeholder mapping, interviews and FGDs (N = 137). Four countries were selected for inclusion: Spain and the Netherlands on the basis of emerging tick-born disease incidents; Iceland and Ireland on the basis of acute gastroenteritis outbreaks.

Results
In the Netherlands and Spain strong synergies were identified in tick surveillance activities, and the value of pre-existing networks of interest groups for preparedness and response activities was recognised. The Icelandic norovirus event was unexpected and fast-moving, while VTEC in Ireland is a familiar and slower-burning challenge. As a relatively common disease in Ireland, VTEC-protocols are closely followed, while a generic all-hazards approach was taken in Iceland. There was considerable community support in the responses in both countries., and in Iceland community representatives also actively participated in producing institutional post-event evaluations.

Conclusions
An over-riding principle emerging from this study is that an informed, at-risk community understands the challenges to adopting effective preventive practices for themselves better than anyone. Additional good practices included the utilisation of pre-existing stakeholder networks for information dissemination; and of monitoring community perceptions of any public health incident, including through social media, in order to identify and manage misperceptions. Efforts to build on the community engagement activities that are already in place in the four countries could contribute to better preparedness planning and more efficient and timely responses in future outbreaks.

Key messages
Recognise the community as a real partner in outbreak preparedness, response, and recovery. Optimise communications with communities who may be affected by outbreaks.
Information sources and attitudes of Polish migrants accepting or declining vaccination in Scotland
Authors: Gorman D R , Bielecki K , Willocks L , Pollock K , Munshaw J , Larson H 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
Poland has the lowest EU vaccine confidence scores. The Polish are the largest migrant group in Scotland (91,000) with a high decline rate of nasal influenza vaccination. A new Polish language information leaflet in the 2018 school influenza programme saw consent form return increase but uptake remained low. We compare vaccination attitudes of accepting and declining parents.

Methods
A questionnaire to 365 Polish parents after vaccination asked about the leaflet, vaccination, time in UK and included WHO Vaccine Hesitancy statements. Accepting and declining parents were compared.

Results
128 (37%) responded - 42% of vaccinating and 39% declining parents. 90% were long term UK resident, 72% speak Polish at home. Previous experience had most influence in vaccination decision-making, with social media and personal contacts in Poland and Scotland also key. Decliners were more likely to cite social media than accepters. Concerns about new vaccines, side effects and ’currently uncommon conditions’ are high in the Polish community and decliners hold more negative and scientifically ’incorrect’ opinions. Parents know that Polish and UK immunisation schedules differ for influenza, a condition thought less serious in Poland than UK.

Conclusions
Polish norms strongly influence this migrant group. Differences in how Polish migrants who accept or decline the vaccination respond to vaccine hesitancy statements plus knowing that Polish media and the Polish community shape their views can be used by health authorities to target health messages. It is important to be aware of immunisation status and vaccination beliefs of mobile migrant groups, such as the Polish, to prevent spread of vaccine preventable diseases in Europe. Linking vaccine hesitancy statement responses and behaviour can highlight national characteristics and particular concerns of vaccine hesitant parents. This information could be used to improve vaccine uptake rates among different ethnic minorities.

Key messages
Polish migrant children have low nasal influenza vaccine uptake. Vaccine hesitancy statements show decliners are particularly likely to distrust new vaccines and worry about vaccine side effects. Migrants access Polish social media and information and retain vaccination beliefs and norms post migration. Knowing this allows targeting of information campaigns to increase uptake.