bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Public perceptions uncovered: engaging in decision-making regarding non-pharmaceutical interventions
Authors: Kemper S , Bongers MEJ , Kupper JFH , De Vries M , Timen A 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
To control the COVID-19 pandemic, non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) were implemented worldwide, that heavily impacted the daily lives of citizens. Occasionally, the public expressed discontent about NPIs, as NPIs did not always corresponded with their preferences. The question is if and how public engagement (PE) could aid in development and implementation of NPIs, in order to improve legitimacy, quality and compliance.

Methods
An online survey was conducted from 27 October to 9 November 2021, with a representative sample of the public in the Netherlands on gender, age, education, place of residency and migration background. In total 4981 respondents participated. Perceptions and preferences about PE in decision-making on NPIs to control COVID-19 was collected. Four NPIs were used: Nightly curfew (NC); Digital Covid Certificate (DCC); Closure of schools and daycares (CSD); and 1.5meter social distance.

Results
Around 25% of respondents expressed a desire to engage in decision-making, as it would increase understanding and quality of NPIs, and their trust in the government. Especially for the NPIs DCC and NC, respondents found it valuable to engage, by providing their perspective on certain trade-offs in values in decision-making (e.g. opening up society vs division in society by vaccination status). The public could play a role by giving feedback on bottlenecks during decision-making, however overall responsibility should stay with experts and policy-makers. Desire for engagement was lowest for CSD. Around 50% of the respondents did not want to engage, as they felt they were not knowledgeable enough to do so and did not perceive a need to engage. The other 25% had a neutral disposition.

Conclusions
Engagement was not self-evident for most respondents, yet the ones willing to engage revealed important possibilities for future outbreaks. Next, a deliberative process for PE in decision-making could be executed, in order to implement our findings in practice.

Key messages
Impact of the kidney transplantation moratorium in France because of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Bonnemains V , Le Borgne F , Savoye E , Legeai C , Pastural M , Bayat-Maokei S , Lenain R , Leffondré K , Couchoud C , Foucher Y 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in worldwide kidney transplantation (KT) moratoriums. The impacts of these moratoriums on the life expectancy of KT candidates remain unclear.

Methods
We simulated the evolution of several French candidate populations for KT using a multistate semi-Markovian approach and according to moratorium durations ranging from 0 to 24 months. The transition rates were modeled from the 63,927 French patients who began dialysis or were registered on the waiting list for KT between 2011 and 2019.

Results
Among the 8,350 patients active on the waiting list at the time of the French KT moratorium decided on March 16, 2020, for 2.5-months, we predicted 4.0 additional months [CI: 2.8, 5.0] on the waiting list and 42 additional deaths [CI: -70, 150] up to March 16, 2030. In this population, we reported a significant impact for a 9-month moratorium duration: 135 attributable deaths [CI: 31, 257] up to March 16, 2030. Patients who became active on the list after March 2020 were less impacted.

Interpretation
The temporary moratorium of KT during a COVID-19 peak in order to free up hospitals’ resources doesn't impact patients’ 10-year survival if the moratorium does not exceed a prolonged period.
Funding. French National Research Agency (ANR-20-COV8-0002-01).

Key messages
Immune Response After Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 in the Elderly in the Czech Republic
Authors: Tomaskova H , Martinek J , Janosek J , Zelena H , Kloudova A , Jezo E , Kral V , Sturcova H , Pohorska J , Madar R 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background and Aims
Elderly, especially those with chronic diseases, are a population at high risk of a severe course of the SARS-CoV-2 infection. The study aimed to investigate the complex immune response after vaccination in nursing home residents older than 65 years depending on the previous COVID-19 status and vaccine brand.

Methods
375 participants participated in the study in September-October 2021. IgG antibodies against spike protein and nucleocapsid protein, the titer of virus neutralization antibodies, and cellular immunity (interferon-gamma release assay) were tested in elderly nursing home residents vaccinated with Pfizer, Moderna 30-31 weeks after the completion of vaccination and in those vaccinated with AstraZeneca 23 weeks before sampling. The prevalence with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was evaluated in Stata version 17.

Results
In total, 95.2% (95% CI: 92.5%-97.1%) of samples had positive results of anti-S IgG, 92.8% (95% CI: 89.7%-95.2%) were positive in virus neutralization assay and 89.0% (95% CI: 84.5%-92.5%) in the interferon-gamma-releasing assay (indicator of cellular immunity). Even though the immune response to the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines were evaluated after a longer period than AstraZeneca, the immune response in residents vaccinated with these vaccines were superior. All immune parameters in vaccinated individuals were significantly higher in convalescent residents than in those who had not been infected with COVID. No case of COVID-19 occurred during the vaccination-to-test period.

Conclusions
High immune response was found in elderly nursing homes residents (65 years and older) after 5-7 months after vaccination against SARS-CoV-2. In particular, vaccinated convalescents showed high immune responses. It appears that such residents are much better protected from COVID-19 than those who are only vaccinated.

Key messages
Vaccination policy strategies before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: an overview
Authors: Garlasco J , Charrier L , Thomas R , Gardois P , Bo M , Zotti CM 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
The debate on vaccination strategies has been periodically involving researchers, policymakers, and also the population. Interest waves have occurred both after a revival of childhood infectious diseases in 2016-2017, due to low vaccine coverages, and during the recent Coronavirus outbreak. This study aimed at overviewing vaccination strategies (and corresponding vaccine coverages) for childhood vaccinations and SARS-CoV-2.

Methods
Measles was chosen as a childhood vaccination indicator. Policy data were retrieved from health institutions (either European or national/regional) and, for COVID-19, also from press agencies and newspaper websites. Vaccine coverage data were retrieved from the World Bank, World Health Organisation, and UNICEF databases (for childhood vaccines), and from the “Our World in Data” platform for SARS-CoV-2. A qualitative comparison was performed between the two contexts.

Results
Unlike childhood vaccinations, few countries (and only Austria in Europe) imposed generalised COVID-19 mandates, most countries preferring targeted mandates for higher-risk groups. Many countries confirmed their traditional voluntary vaccination approach also for COVID-19, while countries historically relying on compulsory vaccination strategies, such as Slovenia and Hungary, surprisingly opted for voluntary SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, with unsatisfactory results. However, no tangible crude association was generally found between vaccination policies and achieved coverages, although factors such as cultural background, education, and religion appeared to influence the impact of vaccination policies.

Conclusions
The COVID-19 experience has enriched pre-existent vaccination strategy debates by adding interesting elements concerning attitudes toward vaccines in a novel context. Reading the available results in the frame of vaccine hesitancy determinants can help to understand the relationship between policies and actual coverages.

Key messages
Interaction between MTNR1B polymorphisms and lifestyle intervention on pregnancy outcomes
Authors: van Poppel M , Corcoy R , Simmons D , Desoye G , Mendizabal L , Zulueta M 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
Interactions between polymorphisms of the melatonin receptor 1B gene (MTNR1B) and lifestyle intervention for gestational diabetes have been described. Whether these are specific for physical activity or healthy eating intervention is unknown.

Objectives
To assess the interaction between MTNR1B rs10830962 and rs10830963 polymorphisms and lifestyle interventions during pregnancy.

Methods
Women with a BMI of ≥ 29 kg/m2 (n = 436) received counseling on healthy eating (HE), physical activity (PA) or both. The control group received usual care. The analysis had a factorial design with comparison of HE versus no HE and PA versus no PA. Maternal outcomes at 24-28 weeks were gestational weight gain (GWG), maternal fasting glucose, insulin, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and development of GDM. Interaction between receiving either HE or PA intervention and genotypes of both rs10830962 and rs10830963 was assessed using multilevel regression analysis.

Results
GDM risk was increased in women homozygous for the G allele of rs10830962 or rs10830963 (OR 2.60 [95% CI 1.34, 5.06] and 2.83 [1.24, 6.47], respectively). Significant interactions between rs10830962 and interventions were found: In women homozygous for the G allele, but not in the other genotypes, the PA intervention reduced maternal fasting insulin (beta -0.16 [95%CI -0.33, 0.02], p = 0.08) and HOMA-IR (-0.17 [-0.35, 0.01], p = 0.06). In heterozygous women, HE intervention had no effect, whereas in women homozygous for the C allele, HE intervention reduced GWG (-1.6 kg [-2.4, -0.8]).

Discussion
In women homozygous for the risk allele of MTNR1B rs10830962, GDM risk was increased and PA intervention might be more beneficial than HE intervention for reducing maternal insulin resistance.

Key messages
Impact of COVID-19 on maternal and neonatal outcomes: a population-based cohort study in Latvia
Authors: Zile-Velika I , Gavare I , Veisa V , Rezeberga D 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Introduction
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has affected many pregnant women worldwide. Pregnant women with COVID-19 infection belong to a vulnerable group with concerns about the effect of the disease on maternal and neonatal health.

Objectives
To assess association of COVID-19 on maternal and neonatal outcomes in Latvia.

Methods
Data source was Medical Birth Register. A total of 17206 birth data for 2021 were included in the data analysis.

Results
2.1% (n = 358) women with COVID-19 (U07.1; U07.2) during pregnancy or delivery. COVID-19 infection was related to the following conditions during pregnancy - gestation diabetes (10.6% to 4.6%; p &lt; 0.001); placental abruption (1.7% to 0.6%; p &lt; 0.05). Birth outcomes for COVID-19 infected women showed that infection has led to the increased caesarean section (27.7% to 22.0%; p &lt; 0.01), preterm birth (12.8% to 5.3%; p &lt; 0.001); low birth weight ≤2499g rate (10.1% to 3.9%; p &lt; 0.001); stillbirths (2.8% to 0.4%; p &lt; 0.001) and newborn infections specific to the perinatal period (P35-P39) (9.5% to 5.2%; p &lt; 0.05). Increased BMI (8.9% to 6.8%), fetal distress (3.9% to 2.4%); preeclampsia, eclampsia (3.2% to 2.1%), hypertension (2.8% to 2.0%), gestational hypertension (5.0% to 3.8%) more frequently were observed among COVID-19 infected patients but the difference was not statistically significant. COVID-19 associated with higher odds (adjusted by mother age, multiple births, gestational age, mode of delivery) of gestational diabetes (ORadj 2.3; 95%CI 1.7-3.4; p &lt; 0.001), newborn infections specific to the perinatal period (ORadj 1.7; 95%CI 1.2-2.4; p &lt; 0.01) and stillbirth (ORadj 4.0; 95%CI 1.9-8.2; p &lt; 0.001).

Conclusions
COVID- 19 during pregnancy is associated with higher risk of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes. The study results of short-term pregnancy outcomes show importance of implementation of all recommended COVID-19 prophylactic measures by public health specialists and clinicians during antenatal care.

Key messages
Knowledge, beliefs and experience of adopting healthy habits in pregnancy: a mixed methods study
Authors: Kolokotroni O , Economou M , Koutrouba A , Prokou M , Derlagen A , Zadeh P Enayati , Philippou E , Hileti D , Quattrocchi A , Mosquera MC 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
Early life exposures affect a child's obesity risk. The EARLY START uses participatory action research to develop an intervention for reducing early life obesogenic exposures. The initial phase uses a mixed methods approach to investigate pregnant mothers’ knowledge, beliefs, and experience of adopting healthy dietary and physical activity (PA) habits.

Methods
Cypriot pregnant women in 2021 completed a web-based questionnaire on: a) Adherence to Mediterranean diet (MD) (MEDAS tool); b) knowledge, beliefs on diet and PA. A subgroup participated in a structured focus group discussion of their experience/needs in adopting healthy habits. Data were analyzed using Descriptive and Thematic Content methods.

Results
Ninety-seven women participated, 73% &lt;35 y.o., 49% primigravida, 92% with tertiary education. Adherence to MD was moderate (median 6/14, IQR 2.5), 90% were eating &lt;3 portions of fruit/vegetables daily, 50% believed their diet was healthy and did not change habits in pregnancy. Most had access to information (94%), internet was the commonest source (74%), and the doctor the most trusted (47%). Mild and moderate-intensity PA were considered appropriate by many (60%) for the first and second half of pregnancy, respectively. Most (90%) were aware of the risks of excessive weight gain in pregnancy. Qualitative analysis showed that women value diet as “the main driver to holistically achieving a healthy pregnancy”. The main barrier was the “struggle between the will and ability”. PA was considered a “therapy” but the challenge was “to achieve the right balance”. Internet was described as “accessible but unreliable information source”. Women believed that needs can be met by “early, holistic recommendation-based interventions run by professionals”.

Conclusions
A huge gap exists between knowledge, beliefs, and practice of healthy behaviours in pregnancy. New interventions should meet gaps and needs using contextualized, timely, holistic, and reliable approaches.

Key messages
International Horizon Scanning the impact of Covid-19 on increasing the health gap and vulnerability
Authors: Instone A , Stielke A , Allen J , Cotter-Roberts A , Bainham B , Couzens L , Beynon C , Dyakova M , Green L 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented challenges for populations, health systems and governments worldwide, which have resulted in lasting economic, social and health impacts. The results of such have been felt disproportionately throughout society and existing vulnerabilities have been highlighted and heightened. A clear understanding of the extent of these vulnerabilities is needed in order to fully address the problem. The World Health Organization Collaborating Centre on Investment for Health and Well-being (WHOCC), Public Health Wales has developed a summary report focusing on the existing and emerging inequalities resulting from the pandemic, as identified through international evidence and learning from the International Horizon Scanning Reports. These reports, undertaken between May 2020 - August 2021, are based upon rapid evidence synthesis reviews of international literature. The summary report focuses on global learning and best practices in order to better understand and address the unequal impacts of the pandemic. The information has been categorised according to the five essential conditions required to enable a healthy life as presented within the WHO health equity conditions framework. The report provides evidence on groups most vulnerable to both direct and indirect impacts of the pandemic as well as promising practice to address the resulting inequity. Inequalities and related factors explored within the report include but are not limited to, level of deprivation and education. Taking a global perspective, this report summarises international evidence to support inclusive, sustainable, and equitable solutions, such as protecting economic well-being and taking an intergenerational lens in both response and recovery. To address and mitigate the impact of the pandemic upon vulnerable groups, collating and sharing international evidence and best practice has proven to support equitable long-term socio-economic and environmental recovery.

Key messages
• International learning provides vital insights to support recovery in Wales and beyond.
• Responses to the pandemic should address the needs of the vulnerable to reduce existing health gaps.
Healthy ageing: Herpes zoster infection and the role of the adjuvanted recombinant zoster vaccine
Authors: Curran D , Doherty TM , Lecrenier N , Breuer T 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
Increases in life expectancy over the last 50 years has been matched by an increase in the burden of diseases (e.g. herpes zoster (HZ)) in adults ≥50 years of age (YOA). Without intervention, around 30% of individuals can expect to develop HZ in their lifetime, which would impact their daily activities and healthy ageing.

Methods
We conducted a narrative review on published literature on the impact of developing HZ on healthy ageing and the ability of vaccination to prevent the burden of disease due to HZ. Specifically, we describe HZ impact on quality of life (QoL), and impact of the adjuvanted recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) on reducing the burden of HZ in adults ≥50 YOA.

Results
In adults ≥50 YOA with HZ, 65.1% and 15.8% reported severe pain and worst imaginable pain, respectively. Pain persisted for up to 90 days (defined as post-herpetic neuralgia) in 10-20% of HZ patients, and occasionally for years after initial symptoms. Pain due to HZ impacted all domains of QoL (psychological, physical and social). Evidence suggested that RZV reduced HZ burden of illness and burden of interference on daily activities by &gt; 90%. Reports also suggested that RZV retained vaccine efficacy of &gt; 90% in all frailty subgroups, who typically respond poorly to other vaccinations. Long-term follow-up data reported vaccine efficacy against HZ of 84.1% (95% confidence interval, 64.4% - 94.0%), 8 years post-vaccination. Modelling studies demonstrated that vaccination resulted in reduced hospitalization and other healthcare visits related to HZ.

Conclusions
Vaccination with RZV can protect older adults from HZ, thus maintaining QoL and promoting active and healthy ageing.

Key messages
• There is significant burden of disease due to HZ among adults ≥50 YOA due to ageing and immunosenescence.
• Vaccination can reduce burden of disease among the elderly and frail individuals and maintain QoL.
Stylish UV-C lamp for disinfecting household objects
Authors: Iannaccone R , Nante N , De Palma I , Amodeo D , Messina G 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
Considering the current pandemic situation, the growing problem of antibiotic resistance and the increase in healthcare costs, attention to daily disinfection is becoming increasingly important. This study aimed to evaluate the bactericidal efficacy of a modern and stylish UV-C device designed for the home environment.

Methods
The experimental study was conducted between July-August 2020 on four bacterial strains: Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhymurium, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli. The UV-C device consist of a protective dome with a reflective coating, a UV-C lamp (placed in the device base) and three reflective holders. Different positions and exposure times were tested using two different carriers holder for the bacterial inoculum (plastic and stainless steel) to estimate the germicidal efficency related to UV-C lamp exposure, with direct and reflected (from the dome coating) light.

Results
The experiment showed that the higher bacterial inactivation effect (3.5 to 7 log10) was achieved for all four strains at 3 minutes, but even at 1 minute, there is a marked reduction in the bacterial load with the only exception of Klebsiella pneumoniae. After 45 and 30 seconds, steel carriers contaminated by Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus on the opposite side of the UV-C source showed significant reductions in the range between 99 and 99,9%.

Conclusions
The device has proven to be effective for the disinfection of various everyday objects placed into the lamp and introduces beauty to the household environment.

Key messages
• In this study, UV-C device proved to be a valuable tool for disinfecting household items and enhancing safety for everyday health.
• UV-C device proved to be a valuable tool for disinfecting household items and enhancing safety for everyday health.
Promoting positive masculinities among young people in Stockholm, Sweden. A mixed-methods study
Authors: Salazar M , Cerdán-Torregrosa A 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
Despite policies aiming to curtail men’s violence against women (VAW) in Sweden, one in three women have experience physical/sexual VAW. Promoting anti-VAW masculinities among young men is a key intervention to reduce VAW; yet little is known about what actions could be used to effectively do so in Sweden. This study aims to: 1. Identify actions that young people (men and women), and stakeholders believe can be used to promote anti-VAW masculinities and 2. Quantify the relationship, coherence and patterns of importance and applicability between the different identified actions.

Methods
A mixed-methods study was conducted in Stockholm in 2019. In-depth interviews with young people aged 18-24 years (men= 16, women=12) and stakeholders (n = 12) were used to identify actions to promote anti-VAW masculinities. Then, an online survey with 83 people (77 young people) was conducted asking participants to sort the actions and rate them in terms of importance and applicability. Multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis were used to create clusters maps. Each cluster was rated in terms of importance and applicability.

Results
Six clusters were identified: 1.own self-reflection and change, 2. actions in leisure-cultural spaces, 3. mandatory education on gender-VAW, 4. positive role models in public arenas, 5. support civil society and 6. strengthen government, police, and legal response. The clusters of mandatory education on gender-VAW and own self-reflection and change were rated higher in importance (mean 5.1 and 4.8 respectively). Mandatory education on gender-VAW and actions in leisure-cultural spaces were rated higher in applicability (mean 4.6 and 4.7 respectively). Correlation between importance and applicability was low (rho=0.16).

Conclusions
Promoting anti-VAW masculinities to tackle VAW should be done in multiple arenas. Mandatory education on gender-VAW in schools and leisure spaces are key strategies to promote anti-VAW masculinities.

Key messages
• Preventing VAW by focusing on masculinities requires the involvement of various social spheres.
• Mandatory education on gender and VAW is considered key in curtailing men’s VAW in Sweden.