bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A mapping review of study designs and statistical methods used in early COVID-19 impact research
Authors: Feteira-Santos R , Jorge Nogueira P 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
The COVID-19 Pandemic has prompted a significant amount of research investigating the direct and indirect impacts of the disease on the population's health and well-being. However, the plethora of published literature on the topic requires its analysis to identify commonalities and potential areas for improvement. This study aims to describe the use of study designs and statistical methods in COVID-19 research to inform evidence-based decision-making.

Methods
PubMed was searched using “covid-19” and “data” terms to retrieve records until November 2020. Articles reporting direct or indirect impacts of COVID-19 were included based on predefined criteria, and their methods sections were analysed using the R software. The full text was considered if the methods section could not be found parsed. Text-mining-related R packages were used to identify terms reporting study designs and statistical methods.

Results
Of the 19837 records retrieved, 5473 were included after the screening stage, and 4463, for which the full text or methods section could be fetched, were analysed. Direct impacts of COVID-19 were reported in 2771 articles (62.1%) and indirect in 1692 (37.9%). Surveys, cohorts, trials, and cross-sectional designs were the most used in early COVID-19 research, with their frequencies differing between studies assessing direct and indirect impacts. Descriptive statistics were the most mentioned statistical method (88% of studies, n = 3937), followed by student's t-test (25.5%, n = 1138), logistic regression (23.3%, n = 1038) and chi-square test (22.3%, n = 997).

Conclusions
This comprehensive overview of methodologies of early COVID-19 research highlights potential implications for the level of evidence produced by studies investigating the direct and indirect impact of the disease. The findings can guide policymakers and stakeholders on which evidence can support recommendations and which research gaps need to be addressed for better preparedness in future pandemics.

Key messages
• Early COVID-19 research employed different study designs and statistical methods in studies assessing its direct or indirect impacts, with potential implications in the evidence produced.
• A comprehensive overview of methodologies used in early COVID-19 research can help evidence-based decision-making, address research gaps, and better prepare for future pandemics.
Heat health action plans: a European perspective
Authors: Lampl C , Schmidt A E , Brugger K , Kendrovski V 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
With average temperatures on the rise, collaboration of European countries regarding climate change adaptation and climate resilience of their health systems is becoming an important lever for protecting older people, while recognising the diversity of older people's living environments, socio-economic conditions, as well as intersectionalities with gender and race within different subgroups of older people. Heat-health action plans (HHAPs) are one example where a common European framework (e.g. within the WHO-European region) may guide general measures, yet without being able to account for context-specific, geographic and population-specific conditions in each country, or at the subnational level.

Objective
Along WHO-Europe's framework for HHAP, this presentation aims to provide an overview of the core elements in place at the European level that public health officials can utilise to protect older people from heat and/or prevent heat impacts on older people, and will highlight the barriers and enablers for action. The presentation will also examine current levers and assets that exist at European, sub-national and local/municipal level to strengthen responses.

Results
Using examples from across European countries, the presentation summarises the current strategic and policy context framing responses to heat health for older people and will highlight what has worked well and where further work needs to be done. The presentation will also inspire dialogue among attendees, sharing knowledge from their countries and contexts.

Conclusions
A more targeted approach leveraging existing strategies and assets is needed to support policy-makers in implementing interventions to protect older people within the context of current HHAPs at different governance levels.
How to evaluate small-scale interventions in deprived neighborhoods?
Authors: Vendrig-de Punder YMR , Koops-van Hoffen H E , Borlee F , Droomers M , Seeleman M C , Kamphuis CBM , van Lenthe F J , Vermeulen RCH , Jambroes M 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
In deprived neighborhoods there is not only an accumulation of public health problems, but also an accumulation of small-scale interventions to address these problems. For evidence based public health policy it is important to know which interventions are most effective. However, many small-scale interventions are not well evaluated because standard research methods are not sufficient to provide information about the vulnerable target group. Therefore in the IGLO Utrecht study we developed an evaluation method for small scale interventions in the living environment of deprived neighborhoods.

Methods
Principles from the quadruple helix approach were combined with core components of a methodology for reaching a hard to reach population. This was applied in three studies in a deprived neighborhood in Utrecht: health evaluation of the renovation of a social housing flat, a study about redevelopment in the neighborhood and a study about health-related reasons to visit nature. The intervention and the geographical area of the expected effect on residents health were discussed with professionals. Details about the personal approach, choice of words in the announcement letter and questionnaire were developed in collaboration with an advisory group of residents.

Results
Linking the study to the intervention in the neighorhood was helpful in making contact with residents. The response rate of the questionnaire was 49% (86/174) with reach out by telephone, 34% (140/414) with a combination of telephone and door-to-door and 31% (64/209) with a reach out door-to-door. Participants were representative for the neighborhood regarding migration background and education level. Field notes about the informal contact provided additional information to the questionnaires.

Conclusions
Close collaboration with professionals and residents contributes to a high response in the health evaluation of small-scale interventions. The personal approach is very time-consuming.

Key messages
• Close collaboration with professionals and residents contributes to a targeted approach and higher response in the health evaluation of small scale interventions in deprived neighborhoods.
• A thorough evaluation of small-scale interventions in deprived neighborhoods is possible, when enough time, budget and capacity can be made available.
Disparities in HIV Testing among Adults with Adverse Childhood Experiences
Authors: Gupta S 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
It is estimated that more than 13% of persons 13 years and older living with HIV are unaware of their status. 80 percent of new HIV infections are transmitted by people who are not aware they have HIV or not receiving any HIV care in the US, presenting a major public health concern and stressing the importance of enhanced HIV screening. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) have been shown to be risk factors for HIV transmission and studying the relationship of ACEs and the likelihood of HIV screening is thus important to explore.

Methods
Using combined data (2019-2021) from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) dataset, adjusted analyses models were constructed to determine the likelihood of adults receiving HIV testing and their past history of ACEs.

Results
Overall, compared to individuals reporting no ACES, individuals reporting 1 to 3 ACEs were significantly more likely to be tested for HIV. However, despite higher prevalence of ACEs, significantly higher prevalence of men who have sex with men (MSM) remained unaware of their HIV status. Significant disparities in HIV testing were also observed by socio demographic characteristics.

Conclusions
Healthy People 2030 aims to increase the proportion of persons who know their HIV status to at least 95% by 2025. Our findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions that target high risk groups, promote testing benefits, and encourage increased testing among individuals with a history of ACEs. Given the importance of testing to HIV prevention outcomes, more research is needed to unpack the relationship between HIV risk and HIV testing for individuals with a history of childhood adversity.

Key messages
• New trauma-informed training programs for health care providers are needed to facilitate targeted HIV testing.
• Ongoing research is critical to unpack the relationship between HIV risk and HIV testing for individuals with a history of childhood adversity.
Community Interpreting in Germany - Interpreters’ working conditions and qualification
Authors: Hanft-Robert S , Kreienbrink A , Mösko M 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
Community Interpreters (CI) play a crucial role in multilingual communication in health care and community services. Since CIs in Germany are mainly organized on a regional basis, there are no nationwide data available. The aim of this explorative cross-sectional study is to gain a better understanding of the work of CIs in Germany.

Methods
In cooperation with the Federal Chamber of Psychotherapists and the Federal Association of Non-statutory Welfare, a nationwide online survey was conducted between June and August 2022. Interpreters’ working conditions and qualification were assessed. Interpreters were recruited primarily through interpreter pools and training institutions in Germany.

Results
Across all 16 federal states, n = 1199 people clicked on the survey, of which n = 873 responses were usable for analysis. Most of the participants are female (74%) and born abroad (77%). The average work experience as interpreters is MED = 6 years (IQR = 3-10). 44% reported interpreting every now and then in their leisure time. The median hours of interpreting per month is 10 hours (IQR = 5-30). Most often they interpret in person (MED = 90%, IQR = 80-100%). They work in MED = 4 different areas (e.g. health care, education, social services, authority, court or police). 27% stated interpreting in six or more different settings. 69% have attended interpreting training (MED = 20 hours, IQR = 10-70), 29% of them passed a final exam. Of those who have never attended any training, 69% consider themselves as rather/very competent in interpreting.

Conclusions
This study provides a first national data basis for the group of CIs in Germany. People who work as CIs work in various fields. A large percentage do not interpret on a full-time basis. Most interpreters lack formal training for interpreting.

Key messages
• Community Interpreters in Germany lack formal training and qualification for interpreting.
• Interpreting in health and community services is primarily a job that is done on the side.
Early life factors and grip strength at older ages in two distinct populations in China and England
Authors: Chisala M , Leah L 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
Early life factors are associated with poor physical and mental outcomes in late life. However how these are associated with grip strength, an objective measure of physical capacity and therefore morbidity and mortality in late life unclear. This analysis therefor explores the long-term effects of adverse childhood socioeconomic experiences and health on grip strength in late life, and how these are mediated by adult factors.

Methods
Data on early life events, health and socioeconomic factors and grip strength were collected from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) and English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA). Participants’ first entry into the survey from waves 1-3 in CHARLS and waves 1-9 in ELSA were included in the analysis. Sex stratified linear regression models were used to explore how early life factors affect grip strength. Childhood events included parental socioeconomic position and childhood health.

Results
17,205 participants from CHARLS and 6,692 participants from ELSA were included in this analysis. Unlike ELSA, participants from CHARLS were younger, had lower education, low-income occupation and obese. Low parental education and poor child health perception were negatively associated with grip strength even after controlling for childhood and adult factors (adult socioeconomic position, adult body size, adult health and lifestyle) in men from both studies. While parental occupation was associated with grip strength for both males and females in both studies. Association of SEP and health in childhood with grip strengths at older ages were however explained by body size and adult health factors, and not adult SEP.

Key messages
• Early life socioeconomic position has a persistent effect of late physical health, even after considering adult health, socioeconomic position and lifestyle.
• Early intervention in socioeconomic inequalities might improve health outcomes across the life course.
Effective promotion of sustainable wellbeing among older people: the social quality approach
Authors: Mäki-Opas T 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
Social quality approach examines the elements of social and health policies that should constitute a decent society that quarantines sustainable wellbeing for all. We co-developed and evaluated the effectiveness of a comprehensive intervention for promotion social quality among older people to answer their multiple wellbeing needs.

Methods
Participatory workshops were held for older people aged 70+ years (N = 76) and for public-private-NGOs (n = 35) working with them in Finland. The co-develop model was piloted and evaluated using quasi-experimental design with 4 months follow-up measurements. Qualitative interview data were collected from older people and managers. Thematic analyses was applied using the elements of social quality: socioeconomic security, social empowerment, social inclusion, and cohesion.

Results
Older people reported having poor socioeconomic security (unequal access of multidisciplinary services), poor empowerment (insufficient skills to use the digital services), and low cohesion (lack of trust to local service providers). The developed intervention effectively supported older people's perceived social quality: socioeconomic security, empowerment and cohesion.

Conclusions
Sustainable wellbeing promotion among older people should constitute from the socioeconomic security but also empower and build trust to public stakeholders. The co-developed intervention group model could be one solution for this and to support older people to live a healthy and meaningful life at home.

Key messages
• The inclusive approach to wellbeing promotion could help to health and social service provided to answer the multiple health and wellbeing need of the older people.
• The wide stakeholder collaboration between public, private and non-governmental organizations is essential in developing, producing and evaluating the multidisciplinary services for older people.
Semmelweis Caring University Model Program: A Holistic Approach to Promoting Healthy Ageing through a Longitudinal Cohort Study, Preventive Services and Workplace Health Promotion
Authors: Ungvári Z , Adany R , Tabak A , Purebl G , Kaposvari C , Fazekas-Pongor V , Östlin P , Yon Y , Voko Z , Merkely B 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Hungary is facing an alarming public health situation due to the unhealthy ageing of its population, calling for innovative and effective approaches to promote healthy ageing. This presentation showcases the Semmelweis Caring University Model Program, a unique and holistic program developed by the leading health sciences university in Hungary to address this societal challenge. The program serves as a model for the ongoing primary care reform, which incorporates preventive services, the first study to address determinants of unhealthy ageing in Hungary, and includes a workplace-based health promotion program that could be implemented nationally. The Semmelweis Caring University Model Program aims to promote the health and wellbeing of its 8500 employees and provides potential answers to the unfavorable public health situation in Hungary. The Semmelweis Study, a longitudinal occupational cohort of university employees, investigates the complex relationships between lifestyle, environmental, and occupational risk factors and the development and progression of chronic age-associated diseases. Data is collected through computer-assisted questionnaires, physical health examination, physiological measurements, biomarker assessment and data linkage to national registers. The results of the Semmelweis Study inform the development of the Centre of Preventive Services (CPS), which provides health risk assessment, screening, and counseling services to employees, with medical specialists in preventive medicine and primary care, public health professionals, dieticians, physiotherapists, and psychologists. The CPS units also serve as practical training sites for medical and health sciences students. The Semmelweis Workplace Health Promotion Program is a personalized public health model program that utilizes infrastructure and human resources of Semmelweis University to encourage healthy behaviors and environments in the workplace, with a potential for nationwide implementation.
School toilets use: the perspective of French school doctors
Authors: Godeau E 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
Access to school toilets, seems no more an issue in France. However, presence does not mean use. We will illustrate the underuse of school toilets by pupils from the perspective of school doctors (SD). In France, prior being in post, SD are trained for a year, during which they have to work on a relevant school health topic, here school toilets.

Results
Almost 40 years ago, visiting over 500 rural primary schools, a SD found 14% of toilets in an &lt;&lt; intolerable state &gt;&gt;. Children complaints were in accordance. Twenty years later, in a questionnaire (126 girls; urban secondary school), another SD found that 31% do not use school toilets, 45% do not feel secure, 91% find them dirty and smelly, 9,5% experience bladder weakness. Daily observations of toilets revealed a conflict between disciplinary rules and students’ fundamental needs. In 2018, 2119 questionnaires of parents about their children's behaviours and perceptions about school toilets found an overall use of 87% while 69% of pupils had an appropriate use for urine. The main obstacles reported to use were lack of hygiene and comfort (51%), lack of security or privacy (33%) and limited accessibility (28%). Last, in 2022, 24 SD conducted a collaborative project on school toilets. In a health promotion perspective, they collected data from 164 adults and 225 pupils. They agreed on one global aim: “School toilets, a place of challenges and a reflection of the well-being of each and every one”; one health priority: “Ensuring appropriate and respectful access for pupils’ needs”, and one general objective: “Mobilize all actors to ensure access to toilets and uses that respect the basic needs of pupils”. Currently two SD are developing a questionnaire assessing the state of schools toilets.

Conclusions
still and even in France, pupils underuse school toilets, causing medical problems, lowering school well-being with the risk to endanger learning availability, confirming that this is a true public health issue.
Active commuting and low-grade inflammation: a population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Allaouat S , Halonen J I , Jussila J J , Tiittanen P , Ervasti J , Ngandu T , Mikkonen S , Jousilahti P , Lanki T 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
Active commuting (i.e., walking and cycling to work) could have public health benefits while simultaneously fostering climate change mitigation. Current evidence suggests that regular physical activity decreases circulating C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. Yet, it is unclear whether active commuting is associated with lower CRP levels. Study aims: To explore the association between active commuting and CRP levels in working Finnish residents. Our hypothesis is that CRP levels are lower in active commuters than passive commuters.

Methods
A total of 6208 working Finnish residents were drawn from the FINRISK population surveys of years 1997, 2002, 2007 and 2012. We cross-sectionally analysed the association between active commuting, defined as the time spent walking or cycling to work daily, and high sensitivity (hs-) CRP serum levels in this sample. For the analyses, we used linear and additive models, and we adjusted for potential confounders.

Results
Participants who engaged in a minimum of 45 minutes of daily active commuting had 16.8% (95% confidence interval, CI: -25.6%, -7.0%) lower hs-CRP than passive commuters. The direction of the association in the main model was the same when active commuting lasted 15-29 minutes daily (% mean difference: -7.4; 95% CI: -14.1, -0.2), but the estimates lacked precision after adjusting for leisure-time physical activity and diet. In subgroup analyses, we observed associations for women.

Conclusions
High level of active commuting, at least 45 minutes a day, was associated with reduced low-grade inflammation; the association was driven by women.

Key messages
• Promoting active commuting could help reduce many chronic diseases.
• Active modes of transport, such as walking and cycling, may not only be an alternative to motorized vehicles to decrease emissions, but they may also have public health benefits.
Impact of air pollution on mortality: geo-epidemiological study in French-speaking Africa
Authors: Capitanio L , Josseran L , Ratte S , Gautier S 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

According to the WHO, air pollution is responsible for 90% of deaths in Africa. However, few data on exposure to air pollution is available, and studies are rare, particularly in French-speaking Africa. This study aims to investigate the impact of air pollution on mortality in 13 French-speaking African countries (Algeria, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Guinea, Madagascar, Mali, Morocco, Democratic Republic of Congo, Senegal, Tunisia). Using data from the IHME, annual concentrations of the PM2.5 pollutant from different cities were integrated into a spatial interpolation model (IDW) at the scale of each country. The interpolation was validated using cross-validation models. For each of the considered cardiorespiratory diseases (LRI, stroke, COPD, IHD), the attributable mortality fraction was estimated using literature data and population exposure calculated using demographic data from each country. Large variations in concentration between the 13 countries are observed, with concentrations ranging from 1.76µg/m3 in Morocco to 67.03µg/m3 in Benin. Concentrations are higher in West Africa than in Central or North Africa. In 2019, 291,417 deaths attributable to air pollution were recorded in the 13 countries: 19.7% for ischemic heart disease, 6.5% for lower respiratory infections, 3.6% for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and 18.8% for stroke. Our model allowed us to obtain a spatial distribution and the number of deaths related to air pollution. However, the health impact of pollution could be improved by more systematic and comprehensive data collection through a system for monitoring concentrations of atmospheric pollutants.

Key messages
• This study estimates the number of deaths attributable to air pollution in 13 French-speaking African countries using a spatial interpolation model.
• This study highlights the need for more data on air pollution exposure in French-speaking Africa.