bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Diet and physical activity during the first COVID-19 lockdown in France (March-May 2020)
Authors: Deschasaux-Tanguy M , Druesne-Pecollo N , Esseddik Y , Szabo de Edelenyi F , Charreire H , Oppert JM , Hercberg S , Touvier M 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
To counter the spread of COVID-19 and avoid overwhelmed health-care systems and numerous deaths, strict lockdown measures were adopted by many countries, causing an unprecedented disruption of daily life. Our objective was to explore the changes in dietary intakes, physical activity, body weight, and food supply occurring during the first lockdown in France (March-May 2020), in light of individual characteristics.

Methods
37,252 adults from the French web-based NutriNet-Santé cohort completed lockdown-specific questionnaires. Nutrition-related changes and their sociodemographic and lifestyle correlates were investigated using multi-adjusted logistic regressions. Clusters of participants were defined combining multiple correspondence analyses and an ascending hierarchical classification.

Results
During the lockdown, trends of unfavorable changes were observed: decreased physical activity (53% of the participants), increased sedentary time (63%), increased snacking, decreased consumption of fresh food (especially fruit and fish), and increased consumption of sweets, cookies, and cakes. Yet, the opposite trends were also observed: increased home cooking (40%) and increased physical activity (19%). Additionally, 35% of the participants gained weight (mean weight gain in these individuals:1.8kg (SD:1.3) and 23% lost weight (2kg (SD:1.4)). All of these trends displayed associations with sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics.

Conclusions
These results suggest that nutrition-related changes occurred during the lockdown in both unfavorable and favorable directions, and differed according to individual characteristics.

Key messages
COVID-19-related lockdown in France led to nutritional changes in both unfavorable and favorable directions, linked to sociodemographic and lifestyle inequalities. Unfavorable changes should be considered to inform future lockdown decisions and monitored to prevent a future increase in the nutrition-related burden of disease.
There is no planet B: masks UVC disinfection to rise to the environmental challenge during COVID-19
Authors: Amodeo D , Marconi D , De Palma I , Petri C , Nante N , Messina G 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
Since the outbreak of Sars-CoV-2 public health measures have been adopted globally, most notably the use of face masks has become essential and often mandatory. As a result, about 3.4 billion single-use face masks are estimated to be discarded daily worldwide. Due to waste mismanagement, the COVID-19 pandemic is severely impacting the environment, the ecosystem and therefore human health. We aimed to assess if UV-C light is an efficient tool for proper mask disinfection, to guarantee their safe reuse and reduce their waste.

Methods
In October 2020 we conducted a cross sectional study on KN95 masks. Various operators wore the masks during their shift in the laboratory for 8, 16 and 24h. Contact plates were used to measure microbial contamination on both surfaces of the masks at time T(0). Then, masks were placed into a UV-C box (volume of 0.012 m3, 40 UVC LED at 270nm at 3mW) for a treatment of 3 minutes. We repeated the sampling at time T(1). We incubated all plates at 36 °C and read them after 48h. We performed descriptive and inferential (Wilcoxon matched pair test) analysis with Stata. Significance level was set at p &lt; 0.05.

Results
We always observed greater contamination on internal surfaces than external ones. At T(0) the medians of CFU on samples of internal surface were 212.7 (CI 95% 0-480.2) at 8h, 311.7 (0-683.1) at 16h and 404.7 (0-736.1) at 24h; at T(1), CFU reduced (p &lt; 0.05) and were respectively 3.2 (0-6.2), 2 (0-5.9) and 50.6 (0-164.7). At T(0) the medians of CFU on external surface were 23.7 (0-48.4), 53.2 (0-143) and 24.3 (0-71.8); at T(1) they respectively reduced (p &lt; 0.05) to 8.7 (0-25.2), 18.2 (0-70), 2.3 (0-6.1).

Conclusions
Results showed that UV-C is effective in mask disinfection although an uncomplete abatement of the microbial load. It could be due to the limited UV-C dose or to its difficulty to penetrate among the meshes of the mask. Further investigation is needed to find a sustainable solution for mask use.

Key messages
UV-C seems a valid disinfection tool for used KN95 masks. The development of strategies for proper disinfection of masks should be carried out to guarantee reusability and reduce waste production.
Self-reported mask wearing, social distancing and COVID-19 among middle-aged and older Europeans
Authors: O'Donovan MR , O'Caoimh R 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
Two of the most important recommendations for preventing the spread of COVID-19 are mask wearing and social distancing. This study assesses the prevalence of these behaviors and their cross-sectional association with COVID-19 among middle-aged and older adults in Europe.

Methods
This study presents findings from the Survey of Health Aging and Retirement in Europe COVID-19 interviews conducted in 26 European countries in 2020. Frequent mask wearing and social distancing outside the home were categorised as “always” or “often” compared with “sometimes” or “never”. COVID-19 status (positive test or hospitalisation) was self-reported. Participants were excluded if they were nursing homes residents, aged &lt;50 years or reported never leaving their home. A further 403 with missing data were removed. SPSS complex samples was used to adjust for survey weights and design. Logistic regression was used to adjust for potential confounding (country of residence, having close contacts with COVID-19 and household size).

Results
The sample (n = 40,647 aged 50-101), with survey weighting, had a mean age of 66 years, 52% were female and 0.8% reported positive for COVID-19. Frequent mask wearing was reported by 82% (range: 2% in Sweden to 99% in Czech Republic), and frequent social distancing by 96% (range: 82% in Slovakia to 99% in Spain). According to unweighted adjusted odds ratios frequent social distancing was associated with lower self-reported COVID-19 (OR: 0.43 95% CI: 0.24-0.76, p = 0.004). Applying survey weighting the adjusted odds ratios were 4.19 (3.07-5.71, p &lt; 0.001) and 0.36 (0.09-1.47, p = 0.156] for mask wearing and social distancing, respectively.

Conclusions
The self-reported frequency of adherence to public health recommendations (mask wearing and social distancing) by middle-aged and older Europeans varied significantly between countries in the first year of the pandemic. Social distancing measures may be most effective in this population.

Key messages
This large survey found that the frequency of mask wearing and social distancing for adults aged ≥50 varied significantly across 26 European countries in the first year of the pandemic. Frequent self-reported social distancing was cross-sectionally associated with reduced self-reported COVID-19 infection. Further longitudinal research is needed.
Factors predicting loneliness among ageing populations in the Baltic states during Covid-19
Authors: Reine I 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

During Covid-19 social isolation has become more common worldwide, and elderly people might have experienced dramatically limited communication. The study was based on a sample of individuals aged 50+ from wave 7, wave 8 and Covid-19 add-on of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) between 2017-2020. The sample size consisted of 4429 respondents from Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania. In order to assess the effects of factors associated with the first wave of Covid-19 predicting an increase in the intensity of loneliness symptoms, a multivariate binary logistic regression was used, including several health determinants in the model. The results indicated that in Latvia, the main predictive factors for the increase in the intensity of loneliness, by the adjustment for other factors, were increased nervousness (OR 44.39; 95%CI 41.06-48.00) and interrupted or reduced contact with children (OR 1.82; 95%CI 1.76-1.88). In Lithuania, the main predictors for the increase in the intensity of loneliness were high levels of nervousness (OR 6.80; 95%CI 6.56-7.04), deterioration of health (OR 2.51; 95%CI 2.44-2.59) and limited daily activity due to health conditions (OR 2.11; 95%CI 2.05-2.18). In Estonia, the most relevant predictive factors for the increase in the intensity of loneliness were financial difficulties (OR 5.65; 95%CI 4.76-6.71), interrupted or reduced contact with parents (OR 5.42; 95%CI 4.38-6.71), increased nervousness (OR 4.15; 95%CI 3.50-4.92) and limited daily activity due to health (adjusted OR 7.75; 95%CI 6.60-9.11). A relationship between an increase in the intensity of loneliness was mainly related to increased nervousness during the first wave of Covid-19 in all Baltic states. However, reduced or interrupted social contacts and health related factors were also found to be important predictors for loneliness.
The study was performed within the project No. 1.1.1.2/VIAA/3/19/540 ‘Challenges of ageing in the Baltic Sea region'.

Key messages
Public health incentives should be aimed towards reducing Covid-19 related stress among ageing populations. Promotion of skills and access to digital communication would reduce loneliness among elderly.
Knowledge and attitudes related to the COVID-19: role of media communication and emotional factors
Authors: Covolo L , Della Vedova AM , Croce M , Zamperoni S , Nanni A , Sorosina S , Gelatti U 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
The COVID-19 pandemic was characterized by difficult communication challenges due also to scientific uncertainty regarding the nature and management of the new coronavirus. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of media information on the population's COVID-19-related knowledge, behavior and emotional state.

Methods
In a cross-sectional study, data from July to September 2020 was collected via survey posted on social media (SM). It included also an analysis of participants' e-health literacy (e-HEALS), and depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms using DASS-21 tool.

Results
Of the 2,140 subjects, as a main source of information, 69% indicated institutional websites and 26% SM. Fifty-four percent believed expert information to be crucial in changing their behavior. However 30% of health professionals (HP) and 37% of non-HP found expert (scientists) communication hard to understand. Despite high education level (44.3% graduates), 19% denied knowing of the virus origin. Others believed the human manipulation theory (33% of the total and 29% of HP). The e-HEALS score in these subjects was lower than those reporting the natural origin of virus (28.4 ± 6.2 vs 30.5 ± 6.1, p&lt;.001). Young people aged &lt;35 y reported signs of depression (41%), anxiety (28%) and stress (36%) more than older participants (p=.0001). As for infection concern, it was higher in females (58% p&lt;.001), those not living alone (56% p&lt;.01), those living with a senior (62% p&lt;.01) or with those at high risk of COVID-19 (64%p&lt;.001). Greater worry meant stricter guideline adherence (hand washing 56% p&lt;.0001; surface sanitation 42% p&lt;.0001; social distancing 77% p&lt;.0001) and mask usage before mandate (45% p&lt;.0001).

Conclusions
Although the sample was overall well informed and followed preventive measures, institutional communication was found to be confusing especially by experts. The findings highlighted the strong psychological impact on the community, young people especially.

Key messages
The study confirms the importance of putting effort on population health literacy and more effective institutional communication strategies. Proactive and timely psychological interventions should be provided to address the mental health needs of the population resulting from the pandemic.
Mental health and lifestyle changes during the first month of lockdown in Greece
Authors: Papadakaki M , Tzamalouka G , Tzamaloukas D , Vasilakis E , Chliaoutakis J 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Objective
The current study aimed to explore the views and perceptions of Greek citizens regarding the impact of the pandemic on various health, mental health, and social behavior parameters.

Methods
An online questionnaire was distributed in April 2020 to the general population in Greece, via university networks and popular social media.

Results
A total of 1045 participants completed the questionnaire (men 34.0%; mean age 40.3 years) from all geographical regions of Greece. Satisfaction was high with the overall governmental response to the pandemic (71.0%). Lack of confidence was noted by many respondents regarding the national health system's preparedness to meet the increased needs of patients during the crisis (44.7%) and mistrust was reported by a high percentage of participants for the media with the way they delivered the news (80.0%). “Fear” and “sleep disorders” were very prevalent psychological reactions to the pandemic (70.7%, 59.3% respectively). An increase was reported by many respondents regarding the use of new technologies (65.8%), social interactions via internet (54.8%), food consumption (32.7%) and care for personal health (31.0%). A decrease in sexual interaction with the partner (47.0%) and relaxation practices (31.0%) was reported by a significant number of respondents. Despite the huge impact on daily life, many participants (60.8%) reported their intention to comply with future restrictions, if necessary.

Conclusions
The pandemic has greatly impacted various aspects of daily life. Policy makers need to reconsider future action upon considering the huge societal costs against perceived benefits.

Key messages
COVID-19 outbreak placed a substantial burden on the mental health of the Greek population. Identifying individuals most at risk of serious mental health conditions, seems vital.
Croatian blood collection system amid the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Miskulin M , De Marchi P , Domacinovic T , Pavlovic N , Nujic D , Miskulin I 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
Croatian blood collection system is based on voluntary donation, according to the recommendations of the World Health Organisation and the Council of Europe. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has influenced all the dimensions of human lives and the functional pattern of the health care systems in the whole world. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of ongoing COVID-19 pandemic on Croatian blood collection system and to evaluate the main factors that influence voluntary blood donation practice in blood donors (BDs).

Methods
This cross-sectional questionnaire study was conducted in convenient sample of voluntary BDs from Split-Dalmatia County during the May 2020 to December 2020.

Results
The study sample consisted of 479 regular BDs, 88.5% males and 11.5% females, mean age 39.8±10.8 years. Majority of them had high school education and living with the partner (67.4% and 74.5%, respectively). During COVID-19 pandemic 71.0% of them continued with regular donations while 29% of them postponed their donation. According to the BDs knowledge regarding COVID-19 infection there were 88.9% of those with unsatisfactory and only 11.1% of those with satisfactory knowledge regarding this infection. The study revealed that females, BDs living alone and younger BDs (aged 18 to 43 years) had more frequently postponed blood donation during COVID-19 pandemic (P &lt; 0.0001, P = 0.004 and P = 0.017, respectively). The study further showed that there was no correlation between BDs knowledge about COVID-19 infection and their blood donation practice during ongoing pandemic.

Conclusions
The study revealed that ongoing COVID-19 pandemic impacted the Croatian blood collection system via reduction in the practice of voluntary blood donations. Sociodemographic characteristics of BDs were the main factors that influence Croatian BDs voluntary blood donation practice during pandemic while their knowledge about COVID-19 infection was not correlated with their behaviour.

Key messages
The sustainability of the health care system during a pandemic depends significantly on the blood supply, which is why it is necessary to ensure that blood collection system is continually maintained. The knowledge of blood donors about COVID-19 infection needs to be improved in order to prevent spreading of the infection generally and especially within this highly important population subgroup.
Use of information from social networks and acceptance of the vaccine for SARS-COV2
Authors: Villegas Dominguez J , Ceballos Jimenez UR , Fragozo Espinoza NJ , Gasperin Islas J , Quevedo Flores M , Sanchez Soto S , Marquez Celedonio FG 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
During the SARS-COV 2 pandemic, Mexico has dealt with different manifestations unrelated to the information that is disseminated in different media based on scientific evidence, which has generated anti-vaccine expressions based on information of dubious scientific quality.

Objective
To determine the association between the use of information from social networks and the acceptance of the vaccine for SARS-COV2. A comparative, observational, cross-sectional and prospective study was carried out in Veracruz, Mexico, between January and April 2021, including residents of this city over 18 years of age through a non-probability sampling through virtual surveys conducted in Google forms.

Results
704 subjects were included in the study, of which 426 (60.6%) were women. 93.9% of the participants stated that they would agree to be vaccinated when appropriate. The source of information most used by those who accept the vaccination were social networks (43%), and of these, Facebook is the one they use the most (42.7%) and where they find more information about COVID (52.0%), without However, the social network in which they most frequently take your information into account is tweeter (29.4%). The OR for not accepting to be vaccinated was 0.2 (95% CI 0.08-0.6) for those who use information mainly from tweeters, as well as for those whose neighbors are their main source of information OR 17.6 (95% CI 5.4-57.4), both with value of p &lt; 0.05. Having as the main source of information other social networks, television, radio, medical or newspaper personnel, resulted in p values&gt; 0.05 for not accepting the vaccine.

Key messages
Informal information decreases the likelihood of accepting the sarscov2 vaccine. Tweeter is a source of information that favors vaccination.
Evaluating adherence to future COVID-19 vaccination among elderly population in Israel
Authors: Halperin D , Schor A , Mashiach-Eizenberg M , Satran C , Ali Saleh O , Inchi L , Bord S 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
On March 2020, COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic. It was perceived as an elderly issue in face of the high morbidity and mortality rates among people over 60 years old. Instructions regarding protective and preventative conduct were issued by the Israeli ministry of health, with emphasis concerning the elderly population. This study aimed at examining the adherence for future Covid-19 vaccine and its predicting factors among the elderly population in Israel.

Methods
A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in April 2020 among 1,797 Israeli respondents, aged 60 and above, via social media. The questionnaire assessed intentions to being vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus, attitudes and subjective norms regarding the disease and instructions issued by the ministry of health, adhering to these instructions, perception of threat, trust in the healthcare system, negative emotions and social support.

Results
Levels of willingness to future vaccination were extremely high (92%). Multiple logistic regression analysis found gender, level of religiosity, socio-economic status, perception of threat, social support, trust in the healthcare system, negative emotions and subjective norms regarding social distancing, as predictors of probability for future adherence to the vaccine.

Conclusions
The study findings point to future intention, in a time when an atmosphere of uncertainty regarding COVID-19 and its consequences is prevalent around the world. The adherence predictors are in concurrence with elements of the Health Belief Model and the Theory of Reasoned Action. Identifying the factors that predict future willingness to be vaccinated, may assist in developing ways to promote vaccination adherence against COVID-19, as well as against other illnesses.

Key messages
The results emphasize the importance of creating a supportive environment and shaping health-promoting attitudes among the elderly, as well as balanced and reliable threat communication of epidemics. Actual vaccination would depend on factors such as the pandemic severity at that time.
Brazil: The profile of COVID-19 deaths among Nurses
Authors: Guimarães-Teixeira E , Machado MH , Freire N , Barros AC , Costa R , Mello e Silva G , Pinto C , Sperry M 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Health-care workers (HCWs) on the frontlines have a high risk of acquiring and dying from covid-19. Nursing professionals (NP) represent over half of HCWs in Brazil, a country with high morbidity and mortality from covid-19, above all in 2021. The absenteeism and death of nursing professionals due to covid-19 have a major impact on the workforce. As part of the research by Fiocruz on working conditions among HCWs, including those considered “invisible,” we have conducted this study of death among graduated nurses. Although they represent 4 out of 5 members of nursing teams in Brazil, the technicians and assistant nurses remains largely unseen and are covered by the “invisible” HCW study. We analyzed data from Federal Council of Nurses, publicized at the website Observatorio da Enfermagem. The sociodemographic profile, professional category and timeline of nursing professional deaths were considered. The time period of the study was from March 2020 to March 2021. A total of 670 professionals of the nursing team died, 200 of these were nurses. Among nurses: 59.5% were female and 81.5% were up to 60 years old. Our study registers a concentration of deaths in the North region. Despite having fewer registered professionals, it had the highest number of deaths (29.5%), and the Southeast had the second highest percentage (26.5%). A slow decline was observed until December, when Brazil experienced a “second wave” of Covid-19. Vaccination of Nurses began in late January 2021; therefore, there was not enough time to assess the impact on morbidity and mortality. The results of a study of almost 50 professional categories are under analysis and will be published shortly.

Key messages
This study is about death by COVID-19 among nurses in Brazil. This study is part of a large one on professional categories, essentials to supporting health care system, conducted by FIOCRUZ.