bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Epidemic dynamics after the DCC introduction: how to best shape COVID-19 evidence-informed policies
Authors: Priesemann Viola 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
The fourth panelist will present tools utilised assess how COVID-19 dynamics evolved upon the introduction of the Digital COVID Certificate (DCC), aspects that ought to be monitored to inform predictive models, forecasting, foresight studies, etc. Key studies correlating various measures related to this measure, e.g., as for example the effect on the perception of risk (compensatory risk, Peltzmann effect) and change in behaviour. Considerations given variants/escape mutants and an elaboration on the implications to low case number will be presented. A brief overview on the trends to look out for in terms of monitoring will be discussed both in terms of moving towards optimistic endemic scenarios or assessing damage and proposing drastic measures and potential withdrawal of this measure.
Effect of smoking on survival following Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in Ireland
Authors: Havle K , Fitzpatrick P 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
Although Ireland has been to the fore in tobacco control, smoking rates are falling slowly. There is a growing body of evidence that smoking cessation improves outcomes following the diagnosis of several cancers. Notwithstanding the adverse outcomes, a significant number of people who have been diagnosed with cancer continue to smoke. The aim of this study was to determine the role of smoking in overall and 5-year survival in patients diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) between 1996 to 2016 (inclusive) in Ireland.

Methods
Data relating to 12,693 patients diagnosed with NHL was obtained from the National Cancer Registry of Ireland. Kaplan Meier survival analysis with log-rank test was conducted to determine the overall and 5-year survival. Multivariate Cox regression adjusted for age and gender was performed.

Results
Tobacco smoking has a significant influence on survival following NHL (p = 0.001). Young patients and non-smokers had superior 5-year survival at 87.5% and 59% respectively. On univariate analysis, current and ex-smoking were each significantly associated with increased mortality. After adjustment for age and gender, current smoking remained significant with increased mortality risk (HR-1.47, 95% CI = 1.23-1.76).

Conclusions
Smoking status is significantly associated with survival from NHL. Smoking cessation in cancer patients is a key component in the improvement of survival. Targeted smoking cessation services for cancer patients are needed; research on the best approach is currently being conducted by this research group.

Key messages
Current smoking impairs survival from Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Targeted smoking cessation services for cancer patients are required.
Classification of original deprivation indices used in public health
Authors: Zelenina A , Shalnova S , Maksimov S , Drapkina O 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
Many studies around the world have been carried out to establish the association between deprivation and health outcomes. Both separate deprivation indicators (income, education) and indices that include several ones are used. Deprivation indices have been actively used in public health since the mid-80s of the last century. Nowadays, there is no clear classification of deprivation indices.

Methods
In order to create a taxonomy of deprivation indices, scientific publications related to the development and application of indices have been combined, analyzed, and systematized. The search was carried out in two bibliographic databases (PubMed and Google Sholar). After conducting a full-text review and searching and adding relevant papers from the bibliography, and adding papers that were already known to the authors, 61 documents were included in the study. These documents referred to 61 original deprivation indices. Original index is defined as “an index that includes a combination of deprivation indicators that is unique and not repeated in other indices”.

Results
Four key characteristics of the indices included in the classification were determined: type of deprivation, spatial scale, data source and weighting method. To create the taxonomy, an integrative approach was used that allows you to add new classes and subclasses when new information appears. In accordance with the type of deprivation 72% (44 \ 61) socio-economic, 7% (4 \ 61) material deprivation, 5% (3 \ 61) environmental deprivation and 16% (10 \ 61) multidimensional indices were identified.

Conclusions
The terms and definitions introduced during the review are aimed at ensuring uniformity in the taxonomy and finding a common language among researchers and specialists who develop and use indices. We also hope that the data from the study will stimulate the use of a competent approach and will help in resolving conflicts or inconsistencies that arise during the construction and use of indices.

Key messages
Development of the first classification of deprivation indices. Stimulation of the use of competent approach and thus help researchers and public health professionals resolve conflicts or inconsistencies in the construction and use of indices.
Potential alcohol use disorder (AUD) among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Ireland
Authors: Daly FP , O'Donnell K , Davoren MP , Noone C , Weatherburn P , Quinlan M , Foley B , Igoe D , Barrett PM 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
Alcohol consumption is a major public health concern in Ireland. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) appears to disproportionately affect men who have sex with men (MSM). However, little is known about the prevalence of AUD in this group in Ireland specifically, and the characteristics of MSM who may struggle with this.

Methods
The European MSM Internet Survey 2017 was an online, self-completed, anonymous questionnaire among MSM residing in Ireland. Standardised questions were used to explore a variety of topics. The validated CAGE-4 questionnaire was used to screen for potential AUD, defined as a CAGE-4 score of ≥ 2 out of 4. Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with potential AUD.

Results
In total, 1,793 MSM met inclusion criteria, and 31% screened positive for AUD. We observed higher odds of possible AUD among MSM who were bisexual (vs. gay/homosexual) (aOR 1.48 95%CI 1.01-2.18), native to Ireland (vs. non-native) (aOR 1.49 95%CI 1.12-1.96), unemployed (vs. employed) (aOR 1.80 95%CI 1.02-3.16), had used illicit drugs in the previous year (vs. none) (cannabis only, aOR 1.74 95%CI 1.14-2.63) (other illicit drugs, aOR 2.28 95%CI 1.67-3.09), reported anxiety/depression (vs. none) (aOR 1.73 95%CI 1.12-2.66), and MSM who experienced homophobic abuse (vs. never) (aOR 1.55 95%CI 1.09-2.22). Student MSM were less likely to screen positive for AUD (vs. employed) (aOR 0.65 95%CI 0.46-0.93).

Conclusions
The prevalence of AUD appears to be higher in the MSM population compared to the general male population in Ireland. Targeted interventions may be warranted to reduce the burden of AUD among MSM.

Key messages
The prevalence of AUD appears to be higher in the MSM population compared to the general male population in Ireland. Targeted interventions may be warranted to reduce the burden of AUD among MSM.
Body image and weight control in sexual minority and non-minority youth in Ireland
Authors: Költő A , Kelly C , Nic Gabhainn S 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
Sexual minority young people have higher rates of eating disorders and disordered eating behaviours than their heterosexual peers. However, research in this area is rare in Europe, and the existing studies rarely disaggregate youth exclusively attracted to the same-gender (lesbian/gay) or both-gender partners (bisexual).

Methods
In this study we compared happiness with self, satisfaction with one's body and weight control attempts among 4,816 opposite-, same-, both-gender attracted and non-attracted young people, aged 14-18 (mean age: 15.74±1.09, percentage girls: 55.4), participating in the 2018 data collection round of the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children study in Ireland. These groups were compared across the outcome variables using Chi-square tests and binary logistic regression, adjusted for gender and social class.

Results
Both-gender attracted youth were less likely than the other groups to be happy with the way they are (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.33, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.25-0.45). Both- (aOR = 0.55, CI: 0.43-0.70) and same-gender attracted (aOR = 0.68, CI: 0.48-0.96) youth were less likely than their heterosexual peers to feel their body is about the right size, which was mostly attributable to feeling too fat. Both minority groups were more likely than heterosexual youth to try to reduce their weight (aOR = 1.75, CI: 1.12-2.75 for same-gender attracted and aOR = 1.44, CI: 1.05-1.98 for both-gender attracted youth, respectively). All effects were significant (p &lt; .05).

Conclusions
Sexual minority youth in Ireland, especially those attracted to both-gender partners, are more likely to report body dissatisfaction and weight control behaviours than their same-gender attracted or non-minority peers. This calls for interventions which increase self-acceptance and body positivity among sexual minority young people and promote healthy ways of maintaining a healthy weight such as physical activity.

Key messages
Sexual minority young people are disproportionately affected by body dissatisfaction and restrictive weight control, compared to their heterosexual peers. Interventions that increase self-acceptance and body positivity among sexual minority youth should be a priority for public health.
Design, implementation and assessment of a drive-through flu mass-vaccination program in Italy
Authors: Pompili E , Catozzi D , Cigliano F , Siliquini R 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Problem
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has completely changed health systems around the world.
As part of a mass immunization campaign with COVID-19 vaccines, it was necessary to study new methods to vaccinate a large number of people in a short time and in complete safety.

Description of the problem
To ensure the requirements of speed, safety and low cost, we therefore designed an EBM model of drive-through flu-vaccination, built in the city of Rivalta di Torino (about 20,000 inhabitants), in Northern Italy, on two Saturdays in November 2020. The project was created by Public Health Residents with the collaboration of the Municipality, a team of Family Doctors and Civil Protection.

Results
We measured driving time for each vehicle from the check-in station to the parking zone designed for the 15min post-vaccination follow-up. We calculated the mean length of stay time (LOS) and the mean time per person based on the number of individual vaccinations given per vehicle. In two days, 1539 vaccines were administered. Flows were only timed on the first day (417 vehicles and 672 vaccines). The highest percentage of cars (47%) received only one vaccination per vehicle, followed by 2 (45.8%), 3 (6.2%), and 4 (1%) vaccines per vehicle. The optimal number of vaccinations per vehicle to maximize efficiency was 4: the average LOS per vaccination decreased from 2.54 minutes per person (1 vehicle=1 person) to 0.34 seconds per person (1 vehicle=4 people). The mean LOS time was 3.06min (SD1.11).

Lessons
This model appeared as a real possibility to start a rapid, effective, safe and low-cost mass-vaccination program in the Italian setting. It also seems to be appreciated by the population, not only in terms of novelty but also for the sense of security and speed of the process. For this reason, in April 2021, the same model was successfully applied in the same area for COVID-19 vaccination.

Key messages
The drive-through model appeared as a real possibility to start a rapid, effective, safe and low-cost mass-vaccination program in the Italian setting. The Pandemic has changed the needs and methods of carrying out common health practices: the drive-through model has proved to be a valuable resource for mass vaccination.
Attitudes and beliefs regarding current vaccines among Tunisian cancer patients
Authors: Cherif I , Khiari H , M’ghirbi F , Mallekh R , Mezlini A , Hsairi M 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
Vaccines constitute a successful and cost-effective public health tool. Whereas, skepticism regarding their safety and efficacy remains prevalent. We aimed in this study to assess attitudes and beliefs regarding current vaccines among cancer patients in a national Tunisian center for cancer care.

Methods
A cross sectional study was conducted, during the month of February 2021, among hospitalized patients in the oncology unit of the Salah Azaiez Institute of cancer. We included patients who were aged 18 years and over and who were able to respond to the questionnaire. A standardized questionnaire was administered to patients to assess their attitudes and beliefs regarding current vaccines. Chi square test was used for comparing percentages and a p value &lt;0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results
A total of 200 patients were included with a mean age of 54.4±12.7 years. The willingness to receive influenza and COVID-19 vaccine were respectively of 39.0% and 35.0%. A higher proportion of 69.0% was observed for the willingness to receive vaccines against other infectious diseases. Among surveyed patients, the high majority (81.0%) agreed with the fact that there is no need to be vaccinated because native immunity exits and or because vaccines are unsafe. This belief was significantly associated to patients' unacceptance of COVID-19 (91.3% vs 63.8%, p &lt; 0.001), influenza (86.8% vs 72.7%, p = 0.013) and other infectious diseases vaccines (93.5% vs 75.9%, p = 0.003).

Conclusions
This study reported low acceptance proportions of influenza and COVID-19 vaccines and that false beliefs constitute a threat to vaccine acceptance. Healthcare professionals should educate and encourage cancer patients to be vaccinated, especially against COVID-19, influenza and pneumococcal infections.

Key messages
Low acceptance proportions of influenza and COVID-19 vaccines, were found in this study. Improving communication strategies in order to redress false beliefs and increase vaccine acceptance is recommended.
COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among Tunisian cancer patients in the Salah Azaeiz Institute of Cancer
Authors: Cherif I , Khiari H , M'ghirbi F , Mallekh R , Mezlini A , Hsairi M 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 is the most effective way to stop the pandemic and to avoid its related deaths. COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, represent now a major hurdle to achieve herd immunity. Cancer patients constitute a prioritized group for COVID-19 vaccination as they are particularly vulnerable to severe infection and death. The aim of this study was to assess vaccine hesitancy among cancer patients of the Salah Azaiez Institute (SAI) of cancer and to identify its knowledge and attitudes associated factors.

Methods
A cross sectional study was conducted among all inpatients aged above 18 years old during the month of February 2021. Participants were asked according to a well-structured questionnaire about knowledge (vaccine literacy) and attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccine. Vaccine literacy was assed using two scales (functional and interactive-critical scales) for which a global score was calculated ranging from 1 to 4. A lower score corresponding to lower vaccine literacy. Chi square test and student's t test were used to identify knowledge and attitudes associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. A p value equal or less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results
Two hundred cancer patients were included with a mean age of 54.4±12.7 and a gender ratio equal to 0.5. Sixty-five percent reported that they would not receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Vaccine hesitancy was associated with lower interactive vaccine literacy score (1.6±0.8 vs 2.0, p = 0.002), skepticism regarding COVID-19 vaccine efficacy and safety (73.8% vs 38.5%, p &lt; 0.001) and believing that health authorities will not be able to vaccinate the majority of the population (71,2% vs 55.7% p = 0.037).

Conclusions
The proportion of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among cancer patients is high. Mass media campaigns for vaccine promotion should be enhanced. Physicians and health care workers play a key role in increasing acceptance and uptake of COVID-19 vaccine among high risk patients.

Key messages
Majority of cancer patients were unwilling to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Patient education about the benefits of vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 should be an integral part of oncology visits.
Building resilience through integrated health systems strengthening: policy and planning analysis
Authors: Mustafa S , McDarby G 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Health system strengthening towards universal health coverage and health security are key objectives promoted by health policy actors. However, bringing together these agendas has presented challenges. Health investments are often reactive and siloed e.g. emergency and humanitarian response programmes. There has been disinvestment in public health and primary health care (PHC), and limited linkages with allied sectors (e.g. environmental and animal health). There is a need to better understand policies that promote integration and enable effective response to threats such as COVID-19 in tandem with maintaining routine health system functions (e.g. PHC and essential individual and population health services). We conducted document analysis of national health sector, security and public health policies and plans and drew on perspectives of key stakeholders to investigate integration using a health systems resilience framework. We examined the extent and manner in which policies are integrated to enable national and subnational systems to prepare for, prevent and adapt to shocks while maintaining routine and essential functions. While we identified a recognition of the need for better integration to promote health security within health systems strengthening efforts and vice versa including strengthening governance, accountability and capacity for stewardship within national and local health and allied authorities, evidence of such an approach was limited. National laws to support IHR (2005) implementation were often outdated and insufficient to produce the policy environment for multi-sectoral working. In 2020, only 47% of national COVID-19 plans from 106 countries considered the maintenance of non-COVID-19 essential health services - a key component of health systems resilience. Policies which strengthen PHC services and preventative interventions can be cost-effective and efficient whilst bridging pandemic response and other essential functions of the health system.

Key messages
COVID-19 is an opportunity to promote and sustain greater integration and inter- and multisectoral engagement. Everyone can play a role to foster an integrated approach focussing on preventative, cost-effective health services to ensure health systems resilience.
Workplace mobbing and organizational intelligence - healthcare risk management in a crisis
Authors: Dimitrova D 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Issue
Mobbing is the old syndrome of the new age. A phenomenon of invisible systemic group pressure on a selected dissident victim and a visible harassment that sticks strongly in a crisis. A victim with a strong character, a person competent and leadership skills to a degree that exceeds another placed leader, as an expression of his fear and frustration. The presence of mobbing is always an expression of a bad organizational culture. The opportunities for risk reduction are based in the creation of a highly effective, tactical-strategic flexibility and creative program of control, mediation and modeling of the risk factors leading to mobbing.

Description of the problem
A particularly interesting scene for the manifestation of mobbing is the academic environment. The manifestation of mobbing leads to serious losses, social isolation and has health consequences on the attacked and subjected to emotional pressure member of the team. A creative scientist and charismatic teacher, a wonderful and eroded specialist does not go unnoticed by the more mediocre. Circles are formed with different scope and degrees of trust in the initiator of the mobbing, who generates and manages directly several with the role of accomplices and indirectly dozens to hundreds of cowardly and sufficiently obedient performers.

Results
Basic human rights are violated and the organizational culture of the institution is compromised through mobbing. A process of a cyclical nature in which only the victim changes. The implementation of a policy of zero tolerance for mobbing is a starting point, but it is not enough for a lasting solution to a problem with the volume and nature of a socio-economic disaster.

Lessons
Mobbing is a conflict of interest in which the better prepared fall victim to the more mediocre. Insufficiently good level of management at all levels in the institution leads to mobbing when a competent and eroded member of the team appears.

Key messages
No one is protected from mobbing in bad and destructive management. A mobbing risk reduction program is applicable to each prevention indication at each level.
Predictors of hypertension self-care practice in primary health-care facilities of Sfax
Authors: Ketata N , Ben Ayed H , Ben Hmida M , Maaamri H , Yaich S , Kassis M , Feki H , Damak J 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Introduction
Unmanaged hypertension is usually accompanied with complications leading to disability in older adults. It has been demonstrated that self-care practice is essential for blood pressure control and reduction of hypertension complications. This study aimed to estimate the level of implementation of HTN self-care practice and to identify their associated factors in Sfax, Southern Tunisia.

Methods
It was a cross-sectional study conducted in Sfax, Southern Tunisia from March to April 2020. A total of 6 primary health care facilities was approached for the study participants according to a single-stage cluster sample, by selecting six grapes randomly. A total of 270 participants were recruited, among whom 250 cases (92.6%) completed the questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS.24.

Results
A total of 250 hypertensive patients were included in the study, giving a male to female ratio of 0.77. There were 125 participants (50%) aged over 65 years. Overall, 137 cases (54.8%) had a high total self-care practice score. The independent factors of good HTN self-care practice were age over 65 (AOR=9.5; p &lt; 0.001), university educational level of the participants (AOR=21.2; p &lt; 0.001), as well as receiving a health education, by healthcare providers (AOR=2.5; p = 0.012) and family members (AOR=4.36; p = 0.004). Advanced hypertension stage (II and III) (AOR=0.45; p = 0.032) and chronic pulmonary diseases, including asthma (AOR=0.42; p = 0.027) and COPD (AOR=0.27; p = 0.016) were independently associated with poor HTN self-care practice.

Conclusions
Advanced hypertension stage, pulmonary co-morbidities, education level and lack of self-care education were predictive factors of poor self-care practice. These findings suggested that such factors should be considered when planning hypertension self-care education

Key messages
Hypertension self-care practice. Hypertensive patients.