bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Feasibility of using comparative risk assessment for chemical burden of disease assessments
Authors: Plass D , Beloconi A , Bessems J , Buekers J , Kienzler S , Purece A , Sanchez G , Vounatsou P 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
According to the WHO, about 22% of global disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) can be attributed to environmental risks. However, comprehensive DALY estimates for chemicals are still lacking. In this study, we present a first assessment of the disease burden due to chemicals performed within the European Topic Centre on Human Health and the Environment. We selected the chemicals (groups) lead, cadmium, PFAS, pyrethroids, phthalates, and bisphenol A and estimated the disease burden for 15 risk-outcome pairs. The feasibility of using the comparative risk assessment (CRA) approach was tested, and where possible, DALYs were calculated. Data gathered within HBM4EU were used for exposure assessment. For the case studies, we selected countries with available data on both exposure and health effects. It was feasible to use the CRA, however, a major limitation was the availability of exposure data from human biomonitoring studies in EU countries. E.g. for lead, the disease burden was only calculated for a maximum of 3 countries per health outcome. Here, for mild intellectual disability, the highest number of DALYs was estimated for Germany, with 950 DALYs/1 m. persons aged 3-11 years. For PFAS, a larger set of countries was considered with the highest burden estimated for IQ-loss with 437 YLDs/1 m. babies born in France. Further, the burden due to phthalates was estimated for selected metabolites in up to 19 countries. The highest burden was estimated for the metabolite DEHP and diabetes mellitus, with about 1,324 YLDs/1 m. women in Poland (≥ 25 years). The experience from the analyses supported the feasibility of using CRA for quantifying the burden of disease due to chemicals based on HBM data. The results show that a significant burden can be attributed to the 6 chemicals in the selected European countries. However, exposure data are available only for a small group of European countries, which hampered a European-wide assessment.
Alcohol policy and alcohol-attributed disease burden in Finland and the Baltic countries 1995-2019
Authors: Månsson A , van der Velde L , Karlsson T , Beekmann L , Jonsson Stenberg E , Haagsma J , Castelpietra G , Agardh E , Allebeck P 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Alcohol remains a significant contributor to mortality and morbidity in Finland and the Baltic countries, particularly among men. This study aimed to assess alcohol policy restrictiveness in this region from 1995 to 2019 using a modified version of the Bridging the Gap (BtG-M) policy scale and examine its association with alcohol-related disease burden.

Methods
The study utilised national statutory laws to score policy restrictiveness (higher BtG-M scores mean stricter policies) and age-standardised rates of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), years of life lost (YLLs), years lived with disability (YLDs) and deaths per 100,000 from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD). Spearman correlation tests and panel data regression models were applied to assess the association between policy scores and burden of disease.

Results
Finland maintained a high BtG-M score, while the Baltic countries experienced recent increases from initially lower scores. Alcohol-related disease burden showed an inverse association with policy changes in these countries. Strongest association was seen between the BtG-M score and DALY rates attributed to injuries. Premature mortality among men constituted the largest proportion of disease burden. Discussion and

Conclusions
Despite challenges in accessing and comparing policy data over time, we showed a strong association between alcohol policy and alcohol-related harm in Finland and the Baltic countries. This study is one of the first to use the BtG-M scale to monitor changes in alcohol policies over time and their relationship to alcohol-related harm using GBD methodology. The study highlights the effects of national alcohol policies on levels of alcohol-related harm.

Key messages
• This study stands out due to its longitudinal study design, which quantitatively compares the level of alcohol policy restrictiveness in Finland and the Baltic countries from 1995 to 2019.
• Our study suggests that shifts towards more restrictive alcohol policies are linked to reduction in alcohol-related harm in Finland and the Baltic countries.
Commercialization of scientific misconduct: the challenge of paper mills
Authors: Abalkina A 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
According to an estimate, there are at least 400,000 papers in the scientific literature originating from paper mills, which are for-profit companies that guarantee the publication of low-quality papers. There is evidence that such papers are accompanied by various forms of scientific misconduct, including plagiarism, image duplication, falsification, and fabrication of data. These papers are cited and included in systematic reviews and meta-analyses, which have negative consequences for science and related disciplines. The scientific community has fragmented knowledge on paper mills, and many paper mills go undetected. Current resources of stakeholders are not sufficient to detect and prevent journals from publishing fraudulent papers. The goal of this presentation is to raise awareness of the paper mills problem and to discuss general ‘red flags’ of such papers, as well as possible measures to prevent editors and journals from publishing them. These measures may include open peer review, editor training, research on paper mills, improvement of detection methods, and united actions by stakeholders.
Training and capacity building on the effects of climate change on health: a need to up-scaling
Authors: Chambaud L 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The need to develop training on the effects of climate change on health is obvious, as the awareness on this topic is growing but the knowledge is not enough disseminated. ASPHER has taken several initiatives to address this subject. Among them, three activities deserve to be highlighted: in cooperation with the GCCHE, we have set up an intensive online course with a great success (nearly 1.000 participants in each of the 10 sessions). With the same partner we have conducted a survey in all SPHs members of our network, to be able to map training activities in the European Region and follow their development. We also work with the European Observatory on climate change and health to reinforce capacity building at European level.
But this is not enough and we have to go faster and further in several directions:
- by linking more closely multidisciplinary research and training, as knowledge is evolving quickly;
- by developing specific training for all public health trainees. This is why we need to incorporate this topic in public health core curriculum;
- by having some modules tailored to different publics: public health professionals, health professionals, but also local, national and European decision-makers and stakeholders.
To conduct these activities, we have to reinforce our different partnerships and create a powerful alliance at the European level.
Frequent park use is associated with reduced stress after citywide park renovation
Authors: Thompson R L , Wyka K E , Huang TTK 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Quality parks have the potential to promote well-being in urban communities through reduced stress. The impact of parks on stress may be greater among individuals who use parks frequently. Using pre- and post-renovation data from the Physical Activity and Redesigned Community Spaces (PARCS) study, we evaluated the role of citywide park renovation in the association between park use and perceived stress.

Methods
PARCS evaluated the impact of the NYC Community Parks Initiative, which led to the renovation of dozens of previously disinvested neighborhood parks throughout NYC. Longitudinal data on park use and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) from 162 adults residing within 0.3 miles of 31 renovated park sites and 151 adults living near 21 socio-demographically matched control parks were analyzed. Linear mixed-effects difference-in-difference (DID) regression was used to assess the association between park use frequency at follow-up and change in PSS over time in intervention vs. control conditions (2- and 3-way interactions). Models were adjusted for age, education, children in household, marital status, and public housing.

Results
Both intervention and control groups experienced significant declines in PSS over the study period (2016-2022) [Intervention= -2.88 (95% CI -4.10,-1.67), Control=-3.16 (95% CI -4.43,-1.90)]. We found no net difference in change in PSS between the intervention and control groups overall [DID=0.28 (95% CI -1.47,2.03)]. However, there was a significant 3-way interaction of time x park use x intervention (p &lt; 0.05). Among participants in the intervention group, those who had high park use at follow-up experienced a significantly larger decrease in PSS compared to those with low park use [DID=-2.92 (95% CI -5.34,-0.49)]. Within the control group, there was no difference in PSS change by park use frequency [DID=1.05 (95% CI -1.48,3.59)].

Conclusions
Park renovation was a pre-condition to the benefit of frequent park use on stress reduction.
Clinical recommendations for polygenic risk score-enhanced breast cancer screening: Can.Heal project
Authors: Taha A , Matt McCrary J , van Rooij J , Lahousse L , Paoletti F , Pascucci E , Vaht M , Pastorino R , Pezzullo A M , Boccia S 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
The application of polygenic risk score (PRS) in breast cancer (BC) screening presents promising opportunities. Developing recommendations for future use and research on this topic is a key focus of the EU4Health project: Building the EU cancer and public health genomics platform (Can.Heal). We aim to provide these recommendations based on the analysis of available evidence through a transparent and rigorous development process.

Methods
The recommendations adopt the GRADE evidence to decision methodology, leveraging an evidence review team and a multidisciplinary panel of nine experts. A systematic review is being conducted to evaluate the evidence for PRS in BC screening, in the domains of benefits and harms, acceptability, feasibility, equity and cost-effectiveness.

Results
Regarding benefits and harms of adding PRS to BC standard screening, we identified 63 relevant articles. Forty-five (71%) discussed benefits, while 14 (22%) addressed harms. Forty-two (67%) were observational studies, 18 (28%) modeling studies and 1 non-randomised control trial (2%) that examined the diagnostic accuracy of PRS-enhanced screening for relative BC risk prediction using measures such as net reclassification index and area under the curve. Lastly, two modeling studies (3%) assessed the clinical utility of PRS-enhanced screening in terms of life years gained, BC deaths averted. The other domains are under examination. The panel convened to redefine the research question and outcomes of interest and will reconvene to assess the certainty of evidence collected, and subsequently to draft recommendations.

Conclusions
The integration of PRS into BC screening shows potential benefits in improving risk prediction. Ongoing trials, such as Wisdom and MyPEBS, are studying the clinical utility of integrating PRS in BC screening. The approach taken by the Can.Heal aims to ensure that the recommendations are based on a thorough and balanced evaluation of the available evidence.

Key messages
• The Can.Heal project aims to formulate policy and research recommendations for breast cancer screening using PRS through a thorough evidence review.
• Upcoming PRS recommendations rely on expert opinion and modeling studies.
Can mobile apps facilitate more sustainable and healthier diets? A systematic review
Authors: Curtin E , Green R , Brown K A , Scheelbeek P 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
One third of all greenhouse gas emissions come from the food system, and current diets are insufficient to meet environmental and public health goals. Digital health apps offer promise to change behaviour, but little is known about the effects of different types of apps. This systematic review assessed the effectiveness of mobile apps in facilitating dietary changes across adults from high-income countries.

Methods
Seven electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Global Health, GreenFILE, Web of Science), two trial registries (Cochrane Trials and Clinicaltrials.gov), and Google were systematically searched for intervention studies aiming to facilitate dietary change. Interventions were characterised by their use of messaging (e.g., motivational statements) and personalised features (e.g., tailored nutrition advice). Outcomes for three food groups were synthesised through meta-analysis.

Results
Of the 5261 identified records, 21 met the eligibility criteria and were included. Interventions, recruiting 73,973 participants in total, lasted from three days to six months. Overall positive changes were observed in daily servings of fruit and vegetables (0.59, 95% CI 0.20, 0.99), legumes (0.05, 95% CI 0.01, 0.08), and meat (-0.14, 95% CI -0.23, -0.05), remaining significant after removing non-randomised controlled trials. Changes in fruit and vegetable intake were more pronounced for users of apps with messaging components (0.75, 95% CI 0.18, 1.32) and personalisation (0.67, 95% CI 0.16, 1.19), and meat intake changes were larger for messaging-based apps (-0.21, 95% CI -0.27, -0.15) than apps without these features.

Conclusions
Our findings suggest to practitioners and policymakers that mobile apps could be a useful and innovative way to change behaviour. Within a wider behaviour change approach, apps could help facilitate diets that meet food-based dietary guidelines, are predominantly plant-based, and are protective of environmental and human health.

Key messages
• Overall, the results from 21 studies showed positive dietary changes towards more fruits, vegetables, and legumes and less meat consumption following the use of mobile apps.
• Apps including messaging and personalised elements appeared most effective and may be important for driving changes in fruits, vegetables, and meat consumption.
Antidepressant medication before and after exiting paid work: a population-based study from Sweden
Authors: Lallukka T , Alexandersson K , Farrants K 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Exiting paid work can be linked to changes in mental health. However, antidepressant medication as an indicator of mental disorder has not been studied in a population that continues working longer. We aimed to explore trajectories of antidepressant medication before and after exiting paid work, among people in paid work at least until age 66. We then examined how sociodemographic factors and prior sickness absence and disability pension (SADP) were associated with such trajectories.

Methods
We included all people living in Sweden 2005-2020, aged 65-70 and in paid work 2010 based on income (N = 32,849, 39% women). All participants were in paid work at least 2005-2011, exited work during 2012-2015 and were not in paid work 2016-2020. We used register microdata for five years before and five years after exiting paid work and included a range of sociodemographic factors at the exit year as well as number of SADP days/year due to mental diagnosis (ICD-10) prior to work exit. We used group-based trajectory modelling to examine developmental patterns in antidepressant medication (ATC-code N06A) and average marginal effects to study factors that were associated with each trajectory.

Results
A majority, 89.5% did not have any antidepressant medication during the study period. Among those with such medication, two latent trajectories were identified: 94% had constant use and 6% increasing use. Having any SADP due to mental diagnoses before work exit was the most consistent determinant of belonging to the trajectories of increasing or of constant use of antidepressant medication, even after full adjustments. Older age at work exit was associated with a lower likelihood of belonging to increasing antidepressant medication trajectory.

Conclusions
Exit from paid work did not result in any major changes in the developmental patterns in antidepressant medication. Prior SADP was the most consistent determinant of antidepressant medication even after exit from paid work.

Key messages
• Most people working until aged 66 or older had no antidepressant use and among those who did, the use was stable. Only in a small group such medication increased, already before their work exit.
• Sickness absence or disability pension days with mental diagnoses before work exit was associated with both increasing and constant antidepressant medication trajectories after the work exit.
The “noise” of suicide attempts – relating LGBTQ+-specific vs. non-specific factors
Authors: Pfister A , Bomolo N J , Kuhnert T , Guillet R , Kupferschmid S , Bourquin C , Michaud L 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Despite the numerous research on the determinants and risk factors of suicide attempts, an understanding of suicide attempts as a process that holistically captures the perspectives of the actors involved is still lacking. Our study, therefore, aimed to better understand, from different perspectives, how (process) and why (subjective meaning, patterns of interpretation) (a) suicide attempt(s) among LGBTQ+ youth happen and to relate LGBTQ+-specific vs. non-specific factors.

Methods
From 2021 to 2024, we interviewed LGBTQ+ youth in Switzerland who had attempted suicide between the ages of 14 and 25. As part of a multi-perspective approach, we also interviewed people from their social environment where possible. Data were collected and analysed using Grounded Theory Methodology, including theoretical sampling. The final sample consisted of 41 people: 7 bisexual/lesbian cis women, 4 bisexual/gay cis men, 15 trans/non-binary people of different sexual orientations, 3 heterosexual cis people, and 12 people from their social environment.

Results
Sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) emerged as either background or foreground “music” of the suicidal processes. In some LGBTQ+ youth, SOGI were key factors influencing their suicidality, e.g. experiencing a major lack of acceptance and barriers to accessing gender-affirming transition (foreground music type). In others, suicidality was mainly related to other aspects than SOGI, especially fundamental ones such as unsafe familial circumstances or sexualised violence, which were accentuated by SOGI-related factors e.g. feeling a lack of belonging (background music type). Further, a mixed type was identified, with SOGI and non-SOGI-related factors being equally important for suicide attempt(s).

Conclusions
Our study implies the need to adapt health promotion, suicide prevention, and early detection and intervention strategies according to the identified types of suicidal processes.
A call to action about promoting healthy sleep among children
Authors: Keys Elizabeth 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Infancy is an ideal time to engage parents in foundational sleep health promotion, as many parents have concerns about infant sleep. However, recent work suggests most Canadian public health resources on infant sleep does not meet clear communication criteria and that these resources often only focus on sleep safety, rather than broader sleep health. Information is also limited with respect to how parents can manage infant sleep difficulties. While eHealth intervention programs can increase the accessibility of evidence-based pediatric sleep health information, recent parental feedback indicates that usability, personalization, and flexibility are key factors in facilitating use. Additional co-design workshops with care providers and parents provided critical guidance on the need to develop more inclusive infant sleep interventions, consistent with previous literature. This guidance suggests infant sleep interventions should be culturally humble and non-judgmental, inclusive of parenting partners, and provide credible, timely, and meaningful information.
Strengthening Global Health Security: The Role of the International Health Regulations in Monitoring and Controlling Vector-Borne Diseases
Authors: Subtil I , Estrada J , Gomes L , Morais M , Correia M , Correia P , Durão J , Quelhas Q , Adrego T , Alho A M 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Vector-borne diseases pose a significant global threat, with approximately 500 million reported cases annually, affecting previously unaffected regions due to climate change and increased international travel. This presentation brings insights from two scoping reviews examining the implementation and operationalization of the International Health Regulations (IHR) in preventing the spread of vector-borne diseases. The first review analysed strategies and policies adopted at continental and national levels and identified four major categories of measures: surveillance and epidemic intelligence, Declaration of Public Health Emergency of International Concern, measures in Points of Entry, and vaccination status. Surveillance systems vary widely across countries, with severe asymmetries in their implementation. The COVID-19 pandemic facilitated the adoption of screening measures and collaboration with airlines and travel agencies, highlighting the importance of early detection and response. An additional review focused on the contribution of IHR to public health action in monitoring and controlling vector-borne diseases. It emphasised the prioritisation of preventive measures related to travel and borders, including vector surveillance. Environmental changes, particularly socio-ecological and climate factors, influence the recurrence of outbreaks, creating the need for enhanced epidemic intelligence. Both reviews underscored the importance of cooperation between institutions and countries in effectively monitoring and controlling vector-borne diseases. Assessing core capacities under the IHR enables readiness levels in outbreak response to be measured, promoting concerted action tailored to each epidemiological context. As the world faces ongoing health challenges, it is imperative for State Parties to refine their core capacities in alignment with the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring a robust global response to future infectious disease outbreaks.