bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The impact of misinformation on social media in the context of natural disasters
Authors: Hilberts S , Evers SMAA , Govers M , Petelos E 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Rapid dissemination of information during natural disasters plays a crucial role in managing public responses and ensuring safety. Social media can be a tool to disseminate lifesaving information but is also a ground for the propagation of misinformation. This study examines the impact of misinformation spread through social media in the context of natural disasters and explores related dynamics, effects, and countermeasures.

Methods
Cochrane and PRISMA recommendations were used for protocol development and sound reporting. Key terms related to misinformation, social media and natural disasters were used, with the search conducted in PubMed, and without time limitation for adequate capture. Only research papers in English were eligible for inclusion. Journal and article quality were considered. No restriction was imposed on country or age of target populations.

Results
Findings reveal significant influence of misinformation on public behaviour during disasters, often leading to panic and hindering effective disaster management. Specific characteristics of misinformation were identified, incl. its origins and spread mechanisms; proximity -both spatial and social- was found to be a critical factor in terms of spread and reach. Emerging evidence highlights the importance of trusted sources to effectively counter misinformation, yet response time remains a critical challenge. Technical detection of misinformation can help combat it but requires further enhancements for real-time application in diverse disaster scenarios.

Conclusions
Misinformation on social media poses complex challenges to disaster management, affecting both individual and societal resilience. Proactive communication strategies are critical, as is the development of advanced verification tools, and public education strategies to combat misinformation. Future research should focus on refining strategies to enhance disaster preparedness and response, ensuring a resilient and well-informed public.
Primary health care models for refugees and the involvement of nurses: A systematic review
Authors: Gold A W , Perplies C , Biddle L , Bozorgmehr K 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Primary health care is key to address the health and social needs of refugees. Nurses are often part of multidisciplinary teams in primary health care, but little is known about their roles and responsibilities in refugee health. Our systematic review aimed to synthesise the existing knowledge about models of care (MoC) for refugees in primary care settings and the involvement of nurses in these models.

Methods
We searched PubMed, CINAHL and Web of Science for literature published in English, Spanish, French and German. For grey literature, we additionally searched Google Search and Scholar, Microsoft Bing and DuckDuckGo. Eligible publications reported on MoC for refugees in a primary care setting and the involvement of nurses. We extracted and synthesised information about the structure of these models as well as the roles and responsibilities of nurses within these.

Results
112 publications met our inclusion criteria. Our narrative synthesis focuses on 61 publications with in-depth insights into existing MoC and nurse involvement. We identified 45 MoC, mainly originating from high-income-countries and with almost a third from Australia. The majority of MoC set up a parallel health care structure that refugees could access for a limited period of time. In most MoC, the role of the nurse is described with a relatively high degree of autonomy and with clear areas of responsibility. Clinical and administrative tasks are only part of the nurse’s role, while educational and coordinating activities are often equally important.

Conclusions
Despite the significant number of refugees in European countries we identified only few reports on MoC specifically addressing their needs. While parallel care structures may be an appropriate approach for a short period of time, integration of refugees into the regular health system is key. Specially trained nurses are well placed to support refugees through a range of measures, including health education and case management.

Key messages
• Models of Care for refugees could help to navigate within a new healthcare system and ensure that no one is left behind. However, development of and research on such structures are still scarce.
• Specially trained nurses are well placed to care for refugees and to support their integration into regular health systems through a range of measures, including health education and case management.
Educational achievement and health during adolescence in second generation immigrants in Sweden
Authors: Agnafors S , Bladh M , Sydsjö G , Svedin C G 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Over the last decades, immigration have increased markedly in Sweden. Educational achievement is essential for successful integration; however, second generation immigrants have been shown to lag behind. There is a complex intertwinement between educational attainment and health outcomes. Thus, schooling is crucial in terms of integration but also from a public health perspective. We aim to compare school performance and health in children of immigrant parents and children of parents born in Sweden.

Methods
In this population-based cohort study, 1723 children were followed from birth to age 20. Of these 246 (14.3%) had at least one parent born abroad. Logistic regression was performed controlling for gender, language spoken at home and sociodemographic data obtained at 3 months, 3-, 12- and 20 years. Outcome measures were school performance at age 12 (n = 984), grades from compulsory and upper secondary school (n = 1668) and register data on psychiatric diagnoses (n = 737). Self-response questionnaires on general health, long term health problems and psychiatric conditions were administered at age 20 (n = 731).

Results
There were no differences in reading (p = 0.676) or mathematics (p = 0.324) at age 12, eligibility to upper secondary school (p = 0.298) or university (p = 0.232) between second generation immigrants and children of native-born parents. No differences in frequency of psychiatric diagnoses (p = 0.112), presence of long-term health problems (p = 0.267) or self-reported health (p = 0.595) were shown.

Conclusions
The results indicate that young adults born in Sweden in the middle of the 1990’s with immigrant parents perform similarly in school compared to children of parents born in Sweden. They are not at increased risk for mental illness, long-term health conditions and report their general health equivalently to children of native-born. The comprehensive school system and child health programs used in Sweden are likely important factors to promote education and health.

Key messages
• In a birth-cohort of children followed into early adulthood, no difference in educational achievement or health was shown between second generation immigrants and children of parents born in Sweden.
• International comparative studies are needed to highlight the importance of underlying structural and socio-cultural factors.
4.P. Round table: Advancing genomic diagnostics for rare genetic diseases: a focus on non-clinical domains of HTA
Authors:   Organised by: EUPHA-HTA, -PHG, -ETH, -ECO, -HSR,   Chair persons: Chiara de Waure (EUPHA-HTA), Giovanna Elisa Calabrò (Italy)
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Genetic rare diseases are a burning global public health issue requiring a thorough assessment of the related burden. Unfortunately, curative therapies are oftentimes unavailable for genetic rare diseases; nevertheless, a prompt diagnosis could allow clinicians to elaborate supportive care plans for patients and their caregivers, determine the best care setting, and potentially consider enrolling them in clinical trials, if suitable. Innovative, effective, and sustainable diagnostic techniques, such as Whole genome sequencing (WGS), are needed to address this growing health concern. At global level, there is a paucity of research that specifically investigates the implementation of WGS into clinical practice which is even more constrained at the European level. Furthermore, given the current challenges impacting pediatric patients suspected of having genetic diseases without a definitive diagnosis, there is an urgent need to improve the diagnostic workflow based on genomic techniques, such as WGS. Delving into this topic could contribute valuable insights that can inform policymakers, at macro-level, and health professionals, at micro-level, on how to develop suited genomic policies and clinical guidelines for the proper adoption of WGS within the daily clinical practice. From an international standpoint, it could be argued that these considerations resonate with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (i.e., “Good health and well-being”) and 10 (i.e., “Reduced inequalities”), as a priority for research and action. Notwithstanding, the broader implementation of WGS encounters hindrances owing to its complexity and the multifaceted social, economic, organizational, and ethical implications. In view of these challenges, Health Technology Assessment (HTA), as an integrated and multidisciplinary process, provides a comprehensive framework for the evaluation of these dimensions. This round table is intended to provide attendees with insights into nonclinical domains of HTA of WGS which, unlike clinical domains, demand a nuanced approach within the framework of the HTA. The intended objective is pursued through the initial presentation of a case study on the evaluation of WGS in paediatric genetic disorders from the Italian National Health Service perspectives followed by an open discussion with experts. The discussion will delve into issues related to economics, genomics, health services organization and ethics.

Key messages
• For pediatric patients suspected of having a genetic disease, WGS could shorten the so-called diagnostic odyssey.
• Context-depending aspects of implementing WGS should be properly taken into account through HTA.
Building Resilience: Strengthening European public health workforce through ECDC Fellowship Programs
Authors: Danis K , Stefanoff P 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) Fellowship programmes offer a two-year training in field epidemiology (EPIET) and in public health microbiology (EUPHEM) aiming to create and maintain a network of highly trained field epidemiologists and public health microbiologists and strengthen the public health epidemiology workforce in the European Union (EU) and beyond. The Mediterranean and Black Sea Programme for Intervention Epidemiology Training (MediPIET) also aims to strengthen the public health workforce in countries neighboring the EU. During the training, fellows who are based in different public health institutes in the EU and neighboring countries, set-up, implement and evaluate surveillance of communicable diseases, investigate outbreaks and conduct operational research directly linked to public health actions. The programmes facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration across borders, building a foundation for participants and their institutions and promoting long-term collaboration through the alumni network. Participants from diverse disciplinary and cultural backgrounds enable interdisciplinary and multi-sectoral knowledge transfer, enhancing the effectiveness of public health responses. By facilitating collaboration and networking, exchanging experiences, disseminating best practices and assimilating lessons learned, these programmes contribute to addressing contemporary health challenges, including emerging vector-borne diseases and strengthening public health systems in Europe and neighboring regions. In the face of global challenges such as climate change and globalization, the fellowships exemplify how collaboration can strengthen Europe’s defenses against emerging health threats.
Comparing Aedes-borne disease surveillance systems in Southern Europe: France, Italy and Portugal
Authors: Fotakis E A , Grau-Pujol B , Kelly D , Charles T , Vasconcelos P , Vieira Martins J , Pezzotti P , Riccardo F , Ramalli L , Calba C 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Colonization by the Aedes albopictus vector, alongside rising autochthonous dengue cases in France and Italy and imported dengue cases in Portugal reflect the emergent risk of Aedes-borne diseases in Southern Europe. In view of improving surveillance, preparedness, and response against Aedes-borne diseases in Europe, we aimed to systematically describe and compare the respective surveillance systems and response measures in place across France, Italy, and Portugal.

Methods
We employed a benchmarking analysis using a comprehensive set of surveillance system descriptors based on the ECDC document “Data quality monitoring and surveillance system evaluation”. We collected data from key-informant interviews, national guidelines and literature, and ensured data collection harmonization through a consensus decision-making process.

Results
Each country has an integrated surveillance system for Aedes-borne diseases. The 3 countries share similarities in surveillance type (passive, compulsory, comprehensive, year-round operating systems), geographic coverage (national), case definitions (adapted EU case definitions), and notification processes. France also practices active surveillance and Italy and Portugal event-based surveillance to complement routine surveillance. Common response measures include visiting affected areas, active case-finding, and blood safety measures. France and Italy responses largely focus on vector control, while Italy and Portugal monitor pathogens in vectors.

Conclusions
Surveillance systems in France, Italy, and Portugal are similar, while their response measures vary, likely reflecting different epidemiological and entomological context. Implementation of harmonised, risk-based surveillance systems across southern Europe and enhanced cross-border collaboration may improve preparedness, control and response to Aedes-borne diseases.
5.D. Scientific session: Climate Change and Inequalities: Addressing Intersections and Impacts
Authors:   Organised by: EUPHA-ENV, -LAW,   Chair persons: Marija Jevtic (EUPHA-ENV), Brigit Toebes (Netherlands)
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Climate change poses one of the greatest challenges of our time, with far-reaching implications for environmental sustainability, social equity, and economic development. In recent years, growing attention has been paid to the intersecting dynamics between climate change and inequalities, recognizing that vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected by climate-related risks and impacts. This workshop aims to explore the multifaceted relationship between climate change and inequalities and examine the root causes of disparities. In this workshop we will explore intersectionality by examining how climate change intersects with various forms of inequality, including socio-economic and health status, gender, age, indigenous status, and geography, shaping differential vulnerabilities and experiences of climate impacts. This workshop aims to facilitate dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collaboration among public health researchers and professionals. We offer a unique opportunity to deepen our understanding of the complex interplay between climate change and inequalities, shedding light on overlooked aspects [?]. By bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise, the workshop aims to generate actionable insights and solutions that promote social justice, sustainability, and human rights in the face of climate change. The presentations in this workshop are thematically interconnected, addressing key aspects of climate change and inequalities from multiple angles. Topics include: Gender and climate justice, Climate change adaptation equity, Legal perspectives on climate change and inequalities and Climate Change Impacts on Respiratory Health. In conclusion, this workshop serves as a critical platform for advancing understanding, dialogue, and action on the intersection of climate change and inequalities.

Key messages
• Climate change interacts with socio-economic, health, gender, age, indigenous status, and geography, influencing vulnerabilities and impacts.
• Vulnerable populations bear a disproportionate burden of climate change effects, including individuals with pre-existing lung conditions and children.
Legal perspectives on climate change and inequalities
Authors: Patterson D , Hesselman M , Tahzib F 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
In many areas of public health policy, litigation has delivered significant, long-lasting impacts. Examples include tobacco control, increasing access to treatments for HIV, and addressing air pollution and climate change. Litigation is an established part of public health’s advocacy toolbox in national courts, and increasingly in international courts and tribunals. In responding to climate change, in addition to potential policy and law reform, climate change litigation creates opportunities for public scrutiny and debate by raising awareness of inaction or harm caused by governments or private sector polluters, and sparking wider community mobilisation for climate action. Where climate change litigation is based on human rights claims, credible science-based evidence of the health and other human rights impacts of climate change is essential. Public health professionals are increasingly involved in assembling and presenting such evidence, often focusing on vulnerable populations. However, the multiple intersecting identities of vulnerable populations have not been sufficiently explored. For example, how does intersectional disadvantage influence the ways in which evidence of the impact of climate change is assembled and assessed? How are these issues addressed in the courts? Examples include older women (KlimaSeniorinnen v. Switzerland), young people, from both the global South and global North, in urban or remote areas, or with different pre-existing health conditions (Sacchi et al. v. Argentina et al), and Indigenous people, including women and children (Daniel Billy and others v. Australia; Teitiota and others v. New Zealand). Multiple identities can compound vulnerability. For example, young people may be more vulnerable both due to their physical immaturity and due to eco-anxiety and other mental health impacts. This presentation will explore these issues, and the critical role of public health professionals in legal action to address climate change.
Mediterranean Diet, ultra-processed food consumption and semen quality in healthy young men
Authors: Iacoviello L , Bonaccio M , Ceretti E , Donato F , Lorenzetti S , Marullo M , Ruggiero E , Viola GCV , Zani D , Montano L 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Diet quality can have beneficial effects on male reproductive health, although studies are still limited, and little is known on the potential impact of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) on semen quality parameters.

Methods
A cross-sectional analysis was run on 126 participants (mean age 20.0 ± 1.2 y) from the FAST randomized controlled trial in 2018-2019. Food intake was assessed through a FFQ. UPF was defined following the Nova classification and calculated as the ratio (weight ratio) between UPF (g/d) and total food (g/d). Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (MD) was ascertained by the Mediterranean Diet Score (MDS). The semen analyses were performed using a microscope for optical evaluation with a Makler counting chamber and two automated semen analysers. The primary outcomes were sperm volume, concentration, motility and morphology. A hierarchical mixed model approach was utilized to accommodate the within-subject correlation arising from the triple temporal repetition of measurements.

Results
Highest UPF consumption (Q4), compared to lowest (Q1), was associated with lower sperm concentration (β=-54.1×106 spz./ml; 95%CI: -92.9 to -15.4; p-trend=0.002 across quarters), and progressive motility (β=-14.2%; 95%CI: -28.2 to -0.09; p-trend=0.036). The percentage of cells with normal morphology tended to be reduced in young men consuming more UPF compared to lowest intake (β=-2.93%; 95%CI: -6.22 to 0.37; p-trend=0.071). The MDS was not associated with any of the parameters under study.

Conclusions
A larger dietary share of UPF was inversely associated with sperm concentration and progressive motility in young men of reproductive age. MD adherence was not associated with semen quality parameters, and this is possibly due to the low variability of MD adherence in this sample. Dietary recommendations for improving sperm health should prioritize limiting UPF in the diet.

Key messages
• Ultra-processed food (UPF) intake was unfavourably associated with semen quality parameters amongst young men.
• Dietary recommendations for improving sperm health should recommend limiting UPF.
Unlocking adolescent dietary behaviours: the causal role of social contexts
Authors: Dierckens M , Van Cauwenberg J , Delaruelle K , De Clercq B , Clays E , Deforche B 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Using a causal inference framework, our study aimed to extend previous work in providing a comprehensive understanding of the role various social contexts across different levels can play in predicting adolescent dietary behaviours.

Methods
Data came from the 2017/18 Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) survey in Flanders (Belgium). The sample included representative data from 8,702 adolescents in 165 schools. Social factors at individual-level (family meals, family, peer, student and teacher support) and at contextual-level (school culture of student and teacher support and school-level socioeconomic status [SES]) were considered. Multilevel logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results
At individual-level, family meals and family and student support were positively associated with fruit and vegetable consumption, family meals with sweet consumption too. Student and teacher support showed positive associations solely with fruit consumption. At contextual-level, adolescents attending schools with a lower school-SES demonstrated lower vegetable consumption. Culture of teacher support was negatively associated with sweets but also vegetable consumption. For culture of student support no associations were found.

Conclusions
The study mainly provide cues for strengthening family social ties as dietary health promotion initiatives, with some evidence supporting the role of beneficial peer and school social factors. Mixed results for contextual school-level social factors warrant further research to identify additional school-related influences on adolescent dietary behaviours to advance current understandings.

Key messages
• Family meals and support promote healthy eating in adolescents, emphasising the health promoting role of family social ties in dietary habits.
• Mixed findings on school-level social factors call for more research on school health policies.