bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Digital Health Literacy during COVID-19: gender differences from a Florentine University experience
Authors: Guida A , Morittu C , Gallinoro V , Ferro Allodola V , Okan O , Dadaczynski K , Lorini C , Lastrucci V , Bonaccorsi G 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Gender appears to be a strong predictor of online health information-seeking behaviour (OHISB). Gender differences in OHISB have been studied in different countries with different results, but no studies investigated gender-specific behaviour among University students during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has brought with it a consequential infodemic. We sought to investigate any gender differences in OHISB in the period between the first and the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. A questionnaire promoted by the COVID-HL network was administered to 2996 students of all the courses at the University of Florence. It included existing validated scales adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic and newly developed scales. Gender differences were tested using the χ2 test or the Mann-Whitney U test, where appropriate. Male students reported a higher score in DHL than females (p &lt; 0.001). However, female students reported using more often different sources for online information seeking (p &lt; 0.05, except for YouTube), searching more corona-related topics (p &lt; 0.05, except for economic and social consequences) and considering ‘‘very important'’ each item in the ‘‘Importance of internet information search'’ section (p &lt; 0.05). Furthermore, female students are more likely to be ‘‘often dissatisfied'’ or ‘‘partly satisfied'’ with information about COVID-19 (p &lt; 0.001) and to search more often for information for themselves and other people. Our study confirmed that gender could affect the way students search for health information on the Internet. Since students, in particular females, have been affected by stress and anxiety during the pandemic, these findings could help institutions to promote gender-specific education programmes to improve students’ DHL and their mental health outcomes, as well as to provide health information that fit specific gender needs.

Key messages
• Gender influences how university students search on the Internet for health information.
• This should guide institutions to better address educational programmes to improve their Digital Health Literacy.
Impact of community outreach programme on improving cancer related preventive health behaviour
Authors: Niranjan V , Fitzpatrick P , Morrogh R , O’Hagan K 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Cancer services were negatively affected due to the Covid-19 pandemic and will have likely delayed early detection and diagnosis. The Irish Cancer Society (ICS) planned and delivered a number of cancer roadshow events in 4 deprived regions in Ireland to address improvements in awareness of cancer signs, importance of screening, positive lifestyle changes and encourage medical care-seeking behaviour. Health checks (blood pressure, BMI & CO2 monitoring) and motivational interviews were carried out by ICS nurses and trained ICS volunteers. Data was collected via anonymous questionnaire from participants and volunteers. SPSS was used for analysis. 98 people (54 male, 44 female) participated; 87.7% found the information provided useful, 84.7% approved of the health check and 72.5% stated that they would likely make changes to their current lifestyle to reduce their cancer risk. Moderate/high understanding of cancer signs and symptoms and moderate/high awareness of cancer risk factors both rose post event (from 62.2% to 81.6% (p &lt; 0.001) and from 49% to 61.2% (p &lt; 0.001) respectively). If symptomatic for cancer 77.6% of participants would likely visit their GP and 73.5% would likely contact ICS. Younger people (aged ≤40 years) were more likely to consider consulting a healthcare professional if symptomatic (p = 0.027) and to contact the ICS (p = 0.007) for more information. High numbers of participants (98.9%) and volunteers (95.2%) recommended a nationwide roll out. Volunteers reported moderate/high levels of public engagement; the most common topics discussed were own treatment experience, cancer screening, information on making lifestyle changes and ICS services. Volunteers reported the need for more training and improvements to some organisational aspects. More rigorous cancer health promotion programmes are required to counter disrupted cancer services. Our results suggest such cancer roadshow events are both feasible and beneficial at this time post pandemic.

Key messages
• Health literacy is continuous process to achieve positive health outcomes.
• Reaching out to people in different setting is acceptable and potentially effective.
What influences the intention to get vaccinated against COVID-19 in the Western Balkans?
Authors: Jeremic Stojkovic V , Cvjetkovic S , Stevanovic A , Jankovic J , Matovic-Miljanovic S 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
Although effective vaccines against COVID-19 have been developed with the unprecedented speed, insufficient vaccine uptake suggests that many people are unwilling to get vaccinated worldwide. The aim of this study was to assess factors influencing intention to get vaccinated against COVID-19 in five Western Balkans countries.

Methods
Total of 700 unvaccinated respondents aged 18-75 participated in the study. Intention was assessed by a single item gauging the likelihood of getting vaccinated on a 5-points Likert scale. Multiple linear regression was used to determine whether socio-demographics (gender, age, religiousness, educational level, employment status, presence of chronic diseases) and attitudes towards vaccination predict intention to get vaccinated.

Results
Proportion of respondents willing to get vaccinated against COVID-19 ranged from 22.6% in Serbia to 40.4% in Montenegro. In Bosnia and Herzegovina and Albania stronger intention to get vaccinated in the future was associated with confidence in vaccine safety (β=.24, p&lt;.01 and β=.20, p&lt;.01 respectively) and efficacy (β=.28, p&lt;.01 and β=.26, p&lt;.001), higher feeling of danger of the disease (β=.21, p&lt;.05 and β=.17, p&lt;.05) and higher social responsibility (β=.35, p&lt;.001 and β=.18, p&lt;.01). Confidence in vaccine efficacy (β=.34, p&lt;.001) and social responsibility (β=.24, p&lt;.01), accompanied with higher sense of susceptibility to the disease (β=.13, p&lt;.05), were significant predictors of intention in Serbia. In North Macedonia willingness to get the vaccine was significantly associated only with social responsibility (β=.09, p&lt;.001), while in Montenegro age was the single predictor (β=-.32, p&lt;.001);

Conclusions
Results of this study suggest that vaccination campaigns should focus on specific set of socio-psychological factors in each country, enhancing confidence in vaccine efficacy and appealing to collective responsibility as most prevalent determinants of vaccination intention in Western Balkans.

Key messages
• Specific set of socio-psychological factors influenced vaccination intention in each country.
• Most prevalent factors influencing intention to get vaccinated against COVID-19 were confidence in vaccine efficacy and social responsibility.
Coronavirus-related health literacy and knowledge among German fourth-graders
Authors: Bollweg T , Okan O 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
Little is known about how easy it is for children to deal with coronavirus-related information, or to what degree children have accurate knowledge about the virus. However, both might influence children’s preventive behaviors. Thus, this study explores children’s coronavirus-related health literacy (CHL) and related knowledge.

Methods
In a classroom survey among fourth graders’ in North-Rhine Westphalia, Germany (07/21 - 11/21), 4 items were used to assess CHL. 5 items were used to measure coronavirus knowledge, while also assessing the frequency of speaking about the coronavirus with parents. Sociodemographic characteristics were recorded, including family affluence (FAS). Bivariate correlations are reported.

Results
n = 364 students are included (49.5% female), the mean age is 9.5 years (SD=.69). 47.5% of the sample find it rather difficult or very difficult to find information about the coronavirus, while this share is 36.1% for understanding, and 39.1% for appraising coronavirus information. 22.4% say it’s difficult to not infect themselves or others (applying information). Dealing with coronavirus-related information is more difficult for children who less frequently talk to their parents about the virus (ρ = 0.166, p&lt;.01) and have lower family affluence (r=.119, p&lt;.05). While certain misbeliefs are rare (“the coronavirus doesn't exist”; 3.9% agreement; “Children can't get infected”; 3.0%), the belief that eating healthy prevents an infection (15.6%), that all infected people have coughs and fever (62.8%), and that a face mask doesn't help prevent an infection (44.3%) are more prevalent. Children who have a home language other than German state more inaccurate knowledge (p&lt;.05).

Conclusions
This study suggests that children’s needs for accessible and understandable information on the coronavirus were met only party. Also, certain misbeliefs are prevalent which might undermine adherence to preventive measures. More research is needed to verify these findings.

Key messages
• In our sample, children’s needs for accessible and understandable information on the coronavirus were met only party.
• Misbeliefs about the coronavirus are prevalent which might undermine preventive measures.
Longitudinal analysis of Israeli nurses’ perceptions, trust & emotions during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Bord S , Shaharabani S , Baruch H , Admi H 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
The nursing sector is the largest human resource in the healthcare system providing direct patient care. The Covid-19 pandemic has forced nursing teams into a sustained state of emergency, and with it, much uncertainty and risk taking.

Aims
Examining the emotions, risk and threat perceptions, trust in the healthcare system and compliance with Ministry of Health (MOH) regulations among nurses at two points in time during the COVID-19 pandemic in Israel.

Methods
Research questionnaires were distributed to nurses at the height of the pandemic’s first wave (March-May 2020). Among the respondents, 140 agreed to continue with the follow-up study. During the pandemic’s third wave (January 2021), the research questionnaire was re-sent to these respondents. Of these, 80 filled-in the second questionnaire.

Findings
Naturally, there was a higher level of experience among the nursing staffs in dealing with the virus in the second as compared to the first period in time. During the first wave, approximately a fifth of the participants (21%) reported that they had cared for patients who had been confirmed as having COVID-19, while during the third wave, most of the participants (66%) reported caring for people who had been confirmed as having contracted the virus. The findings demonstrate significantly lower levels of compliance with regulations and risk perception, and a significantly higher level of emotions in the third wave as compared to the first. However, there was no change in the level of trust in the healthcare system or in the pandemic-related threat perception.

Conclusions
The findings provide us with some information regarding the process the nursing staffs have undergone (and are still undergoing) in dealing with the pandemic, and may point at a ‘pandemic fatigue’ amongst them. This concept relates to progressively lower regulation compliance levels appearing over time, affected by the target population’s emotions, experiences and perceptions.

Key messages
• It is important to assist the nurses’ emotional regulation with the help of professionals in the organization, form colleagues’ support groups and ensure management recognition of the situation.
• Resilience-raising steps should be taken, for example by ensuring rest times and sufficient medical and protective equipment.
Transformation-oriented leadership in German hospitals: beneficial attributes and competencies
Authors: Kleine J , Köppen J , Maier C 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Introduction
Due to a shortage of health professionals and economic pressure, many German hospitals are required to transform the clinical work environment to increase job satisfaction, but also to attract and retain health professionals. Leadership is a key factor for the successful implementation of organization-wide change. The aim of this study was to identify the attributes and competencies among leaders that are beneficial for implementing and managing hospital-wide transformations.

Methods
A qualitative study design. In 2020, 18 face-to-face, semi-structured interviews were conducted with chief nursing officers, ward managers, nurses and physicians in five German hospitals which have started implementing a hospital-wide transformation (e.g. Magnet® or Pathway®). Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed in Atlas.ti using the content analysis method according to Mayring.

Results
Results show five beneficial leadership elements to instigate and steer hospital-wide transformation: (1) Charismatic leaders are role models and idealists with well-communicated visions that are grounded in clinical practice and reflect the clinical practitioners. (2) Mentally strong leaders have courage, stamina, and are resilient. (3) Empowering leaders are highly supportive and increase the intrinsic motivation of employees. (4) Imparting interprofessional appreciation refers to leaders who cultivate a respectful relationship with persons from other professional groups and recognize their daily performance. (5) Agile leaders are well and quickly accessible for employees and respond situationally to changing demands in everyday work.

Conclusions
Interviewees described characteristics of hospital leaders as success factors for establishing and maintaining continuous change processes. Charismatic and supportive leaders are critical to transform the hospitals’ culture and values. In addition, equitable interprofessional collaboration is of utmost importance.

Key messages
• Charismatic, agile, empowering leaders can have a positive impact on system-wide change processes.
• The successful transformation of hospitals’ work environment needs interprofessional appreciation and the mutual acknowledgement of competences.
Migration from Latin America to Italy and EU: the issue of health professionals
Authors: De Caro W , Corvo E 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Introduction
The estimated shortage of more than 15 million health and social care professionals, including over 6 million nurses, together with the significant phenomenon of international migration of such professionals, emerged, during COVID-19, with even more evidence. During the pandemic the danger of a collapse of health systems in many areas due to a shortage of staff was manifest. This leads, among other reasons for several professionals to migrate from South America to Italy and Europe.

Methods
an integrative review analysis (2011-2021), of trend in terms of legislation and policy documents were conducted using health and social database and gray literature. 34 different documents were included in this review.

Results
Several initiatives have been developed to establish international and/or bilateral obligations among countries in terms; however, this showed to be insufficient. There is confusion in terms of the necessity of harmonizing rules, nursing curricula, monitor systems, and innovative rules for recognition. With covid-19 and the increase in shortage of health professionals, a number of countries decide to reduce the general criteria of recognition.

Conclusions
It is time to develop specific actions aimed at setting up a passport for public health and health care professionals which allows guaranteeing prior certification and accreditation of skills by independent agencies. There is the need to set up a joint effort/actions among different stakeholders such as Government, Higher Education institutions, International Labor health market actors, and NGOs in the field of migration, labor, and training of public health and health care professionals to better meet health needs worldwide

Key messages
• it is necessary balancing the rights of individuals to migrate with the potential loss of essential health care services in source countries.
• migration and shortage of nurses is a serious ethical issues.
Determination of Admission Criteria for Global Public Health Master at the University of Georgia
Authors: Lobjanidze T , Skhvitaridze N , Antia K , Lobjanidze M , Nonikashvili M , Shakarishvili G 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
Recent events in the world, wars, pandemics, have once again raised the issue of the need for competent human resources in global public health (GPH). In Georgia, there are master’s degree programs in public health where global health is mostly offered as an elective or core course of the curriculum. University of Georgia (UG) is involved in the ERASMUS + project in GPH (BACE). UG initiated to create new GPH Master Program, which will be response towards local, regional and international challenges and demand.

Objective
Main objective of developing GPH program was to address and meet national and international global health education needs and challenges. The aim of the study was to identify evidence-based prerequisites for the MPH in GPH (UG). We conducting document review based on the GPH competency model (GPHCM) and evaluated: 1) GPH & MPH programs of the top 20 world university ranking (THE/2022); 2) CUGH associated programs; 3) Georgian MPH programs; 4) Georgian education documents (such as Georgian National Qualifications Framework (GNQF)); 5) Main directions of career development in global health. In addition, interviews with national experts were conducted (in education, employment, program leaders) using the Delph method.

Results
Study found that depending on the scope and content of the program, prerequisites for obtaining MPH in GPH varies. In addition to English competence and a high GPA, working or research experience or interviews or additional exams or other are required. In Georgia, there is no adopted GPHCM, but GNQF allows the establishment of MPH in GPH. UG new Master program (120 ECTS) will include 99 ECTS core (including research practicum & thesis) and 21 ECTS elective courses based on 6 domains of GPHCM. The program will mostly focus on population health management at a global level.

Conclusions
Study findings suggest any undergraduates with appropriate conditions could be eligible for admission to the UG (MPH in GPH).

Key messages
• UG admission prerequisites for Health Science undergraduates: National entrance exam, English proficiency B2, working experience and motivation letter.
• UG additionally admission prerequisites for Health Science undergraduates: basic knowledge epidemiology and medical terminology (if credits available or test).
Prevalence and risk factors of hepatitis C virus infection in Armenia, 2021
Authors: Demirchyan A , Sahakyan S , Aslanyan L , Mushegyan L , Muradyan D , Mozalevskis A , Sargsyants N , Ghukasyan G , Petrosyan V 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
Liver damage caused by hepatitis C virus (HCV) is common, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Chronic HCV infection is among the leading causes of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Data on prevalence and risk factors of HCV infection are important for planning effective interventions to fight the virus. This study investigated the prevalence of HCV, its genotypes and factors associated with chronic HCV infection in Armenia.

Methods
The study included 3838 individuals 18 years and older selected via stratified two-stage cluster sampling from all regions of Armenia. Anti-HCV antibodies were detected using a third generation immunoassay. Those testing positive were further tested by Polymerase Chain Reaction and genotyping. Shortly after testing, the participants underwent a telephone survey. Logistic regression model was fitted to identify factors associated with chronic HCV infection.

Results
The participants mean age was 49.5 years, 70.0% were female. The prevalence of HCV antibodies weighted by age and sex was 1.9% (95% CI 1.5, 2.3), and chronic HCV infection - 0.7% (95% CI 0.4, 0.9), with genotype 3 being the most common (41.7%), followed by genotypes 2 (37.5%) and 1 (20.8%). The prevalence of both antibodies and chronic infection were higher among 50-69 years old (3.4% and 1.3%, respectively). In weighted analysis, the risk factors for chronic HCV infection included male sex (95% CI 1.23, 11.59), having tattoos (95% CI 1.10, 7.80), and reporting liver disease (95% CI 1.24, 14.61). Being employed was protective (95% CI 0.14, 0.93).

Conclusions
This study was the first attempt to measure the prevalence of HCV infection among the general population of Armenia, creating prerequisites for estimating the HCV-related disease burden and developing strategies to cope with it. The identified risk factors demonstrate that there is still room for strengthening safety measures to prevent the transmission of HCV in Armenia.

Key messages
• The prevalence of HCV antibodies is 1.9% among adult population of Armenia, increasing with age. Over one-third of seropositive cases have chronic infection caused by HCV genotypes 3, 2 or 1.
• Having tattoos is associated with higher risk of being infected with HCV, demonstrating the need for strengthening safety measures during similar procedures to prevent viral transmission.
Costs of delivering human papillomavirus vaccination in Tanzania
Authors: Struckmann V , Stephani V , Hsiao A , Mbbando D , Changalucha J , Baisley K , Levin A , Hutubessy R , Watson-Jones D , Quentin W 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
Cervical cancer caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most frequent cancer in women in many low-income countries.Tanzania implemented a national HPV vaccination program in 2018 using a two-dose quadrivalent HPV vaccine. This study aimed to (1) estimate financial and economic costs of a two-dose vaccination program based on experiences with the national vaccination program, (2) estimate costs of a one-dose vaccination schedule to enable future cost-effectiveness analyses, and (3) assess the effect of alternative assumptions for future vaccination coverage rates on estimated costs of vaccination.

Methods
The WHO Cervical Cancer Prevention and Control Costing (C4P) tool was used to estimate the incremental costs of the national vaccination programme from the perspective of the Tanzanian government using data collected via surveys, workshops, and interviews with local stakeholders. Deterministic sensitivity analyses were performed to estimate the effect of alternative assumptions for coverage rates and delivery strategies and to assess the impact of a potential one-dose vaccination schedule.

Results
The total financial and economic costs were US$10,117,455 and US$45,683,204, respectively, at a financial cost of $5.17 per two-dose fully immunized girl (FIG), and an economic cost of $23.34 per FIG. Under the assumption of a one-dose vaccination schedule, costs per FIG would reduce to financial costs of $2.51 and economic costs of $12.18.

Conclusions
The overall cost of Tanzania’s HPV vaccination program was lower per vaccinee than previous demonstration projects in the region suggest. These data provide important baseline data for Tanzania’s HPV vaccination program to date and may serve as a guide for improving coverage going forward. The findings may also aid in the prioritization of funding for countries that have not yet added HPV vaccines to their routine immunizations.

Key messages
• If a single dose regimen were found to be as effective as a two-dose series, it would result in significant cost savings as well as an increase in the number of girls that could be reached.
• School-based vaccinations resulted in the lowest price per fully immunized girl, but other settings are needed to achieve equitable high coverage of HPV vaccination in Tanzania.