International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

8 pages, 295 KiB

Open AccessReview

Navigating through COVID-19 Pandemic Period in Implementing Quality Teaching and Learning for Higher Education Programmes: A Document Analysis Study

by Charity Ngoatle, Tebogo M. Mothiba and Modikana A. Ngoepe

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11146; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711146 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1956

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic worldwide, has caused a swift change in the higher education system giving way to a rise in instituting multimodal teaching and learning approaches. These approaches have demonstrated an inadequate capacity for multimodal teaching, particularly through online instruction by many [...] Read more.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic worldwide, has caused a swift change in the higher education system giving way to a rise in instituting multimodal teaching and learning approaches. These approaches have demonstrated an inadequate capacity for multimodal teaching, particularly through online instruction by many institutions. The Department of Higher Education in South Africa did its utmost best to equip the institutions with the required resources to continue with the provision of education. Methods: A descriptive qualitative research design was followed in the study. The study data source included the South African government’s COVID-19 regulations relating to higher education and training. The purposive sampling method was used to select (8) several government documents relating to the regulation of COVID-19 in higher education and training institutions Document analysis technique was used to collect data from the COVID-19 pandemic regulation documents. Results: the study showed that most HEIs in South Africa adhere to safety measures, ensure business continuity in teaching and learning, continued with the distribution of National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) allowances as allocated by the government, and followed procedures for returning certain categories of students on campuses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusions: The study has evaluated the support for quality higher education teaching and learning during the pandemic period in South Africa. The study, therefore, recommends the continuing of online teaching as part of blended learning so that institutions could always be ready should situations like this occurs again in the future and above be in sync with digital transformation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Education and Health)

8 pages, 328 KiB

Open AccessStudy Protocol

Person-Centered Practice in Hospitalized Older Adults with Chronic Illness: Clinical Study Protocol

by Diana Alves Vareta, Filipa Ventura, Carlos Família and Célia Oliveira

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11145; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711145 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1658

Abstract

The aging trend in the population, the high rate of hospitalization, the affliction by multiple chronic illnesses, and the increased vulnerability of older people when hospitalized undoubtedly require a person-centered approach to healthcare—an approach that values a person’s participation in the healthcare relationship, [...] Read more.

The aging trend in the population, the high rate of hospitalization, the affliction by multiple chronic illnesses, and the increased vulnerability of older people when hospitalized undoubtedly require a person-centered approach to healthcare—an approach that values a person’s participation in the healthcare relationship, supports shared decision making and mutual understanding, and respects a person’s values, preferences, and beliefs. However, despite widespread recognition that the adoption of such a clinical practice paradigm is paramount, its implementation and development are still challenging for various health systems and professionals worldwide. The implementation strategy for such a healthcare paradigm must be based on each country’s health system organization and practice contexts, as well as the professionals involved. The present work aims to provide guidelines for the understanding of the state of development of person-centered practice in the daily care of hospitalized older adults with chronic illnesses within the internal medicine department of a secondary hospital in an urban area of Portugal. We focus on the characterization of (i) the perceptions of a multidisciplinary team working at an inpatient hospital department of person-centered practice, (ii) the perceptions of hospitalized older adults with chronic illnesses about person-centered practice, (iii) the work culture of an inpatient hospital department with a high prevalence of older adults with chronic illnesses, (iv) the Person-Centred Practice Framework at the organizational and structural levels of the healthcare system, and (v) the elements that influence the implementation of person-centered practice at the individual, organizational, and structural levels in this specific hospital context. To this end, a mixed-methods analysis with a convergent design was planned to use questionnaire instruments to collect data in parallel and independently from distinct samples of health professionals and older inpatient adults within this department. Furthermore, health policies and strategic plans will be analyzed to identify and evaluate references and guidelines for the practice of person-centered care. Studying the dimensions of clinical practice in this specific healthcare context following the Person-Centred Practice Framework can allow us to understand the extent of its development in terms of prerequisites, care environment, care processes, and the macro-context of the healthcare system. Therefore, it is possible to identify and characterize the dimensions achieved and those that need to be improved and, thus, establish a starting point for the definition of new strategies to advance practice towards person-centeredness and monitor changes in healthcare practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Health Care in Non-communicable Diseases)

17 pages, 1088 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevention from Sharp Injuries in the Hospital Sector: An Italian National Observatory on the Implementation of the Council Directive 2010/32/EU before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Gabriella De Carli, Alessandro Agresta, Maria Giuseppina Lecce, Patrizia Marchegiano, Gianpaolo Micheloni, Dimitri Sossai, Giuseppe Campo, Paola Tomao, Nicoletta Vonesch, Sara Leone, Vincenzo Puro and The Studio Italiano Rischio Occupazionale da HIV (SIROH) Group

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11144; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711144 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2665

Abstract

Sharp injuries, determining the risk of bloodborne infections and psychological distress in healthcare workers, may be prevented by a set of strategies, legally enforced in Europe through the Directive 2010/32/EU. To assess its level of implementation in Italy, a national survey was conducted [...] Read more.

Sharp injuries, determining the risk of bloodborne infections and psychological distress in healthcare workers, may be prevented by a set of strategies, legally enforced in Europe through the Directive 2010/32/EU. To assess its level of implementation in Italy, a national survey was conducted in 2017 and again in 2021, evaluating the progress and possible drawbacks of the COVID-19 pandemic. Altogether, 285 safety managers and 330 nurses from a representative sample of 97 and 117 public hospitals were interviewed using a standardized questionnaire. Knowledge of the Directive requirements decreased significantly, with <60% of participants answering correctly in 2021, and nurses’ attendance in specific courses dropped to 25% in 2021 compared to 54% in 2017. Over 75% of hospitals introduced multiple safety-engineered devices (SED), though total replacement occurred in <50% of cases; routine SED availability increased for blood collection (89%) and venous access devices (83%). Incorrect behaviors in handling sharps decreased significantly over time. Nurses’ HBV vaccination coverage was high (89% in both surveys); in the last year, 97% were vaccinated against COVID, and 47% against influenza. Average annual injuries per hospital did not increase significantly (32 in 2021 vs. 26 in 2017). In 2017, nurses’ perceived safety barriers were working in emergency situations (49%) and lack of resources (40%); in 2021, understaffing (73%), physical fatigue (62%), and handling difficulties while wearing full protective equipment (59%). Safety measures were implemented in Italian hospitals, and although the average injuries per hospital did not show a decrease, these measures could have helped protect healthcare workers during the pandemic, mitigating its potential impact on the increase in situations at risk of injury. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Diseases in the Workplace)

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11 pages, 460 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Joint Association of Daily Rest Periods and Sleep Duration with Worker Health and Productivity: A Cross-Sectional Web Survey of Japanese Daytime Workers

by Hiroki Ikeda, Tomohide Kubo, Shuhei Izawa, Nanako Nakamura-Taira, Toru Yoshikawa and Rie Akamatsu

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11143; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711143 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2204

Abstract

A daily rest period (DRP) is a daily inter-work interval that contains sleep opportunity. This study investigates the joint association of DRP and sleep duration with worker health and productivity. A total of 13,306 Japanese daytime workers participated in this web-based cross-sectional survey. [...] Read more.

A daily rest period (DRP) is a daily inter-work interval that contains sleep opportunity. This study investigates the joint association of DRP and sleep duration with worker health and productivity. A total of 13,306 Japanese daytime workers participated in this web-based cross-sectional survey. Participants reported on their DRPs and sleep duration; moreover, sleep difficulties, mental health, and presenteeism were assessed by the standardized questionnaires. The participants were divided into 10 groups based on their DRPs and sleep duration. Logistic regression analyses showed that the combination of quick return (QR: DRP of <11 h) and short sleep duration (<6 h) was found to be significantly associated with sleep difficulties (odds ratio [OR] = 4.45, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.83–7.01), poor mental health (OR = 3.04, 95% CI = 1.79–5.15), and presenteeism (OR = 2.35, 95% CI = 1.47–3.77) compared with the reference group (the combination of adequate DRP [15 h] and a normal sleep duration [≥6 h]). The combination of QR and normal sleep duration or adequate DRP and short sleep duration was significantly associated with high ORs for the outcomes. QR, short sleep duration, or both negatively affect worker health and productivity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rethinking Occupational Fatigue and Recovery: Towards Sustainable Healthy Work)

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9 pages, 340 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Aerobic Capacity and Restitution Efficiency Level in Relation to the Training Experience and Weekly Training Volume of Male and Female Judo National Team Members in the Cadet Age Group (U18) during the Preparatory Period

by Adam Prokopczyk and Marek Sokołowski

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11142; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711142 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1464

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the relationship between the level of aerobic capacity and post-exercise restitution during the preparation period, with training experience and weekly training volume. All (12) athletes (six women; six men) participating in the training camp of the Polish national [...] Read more.

This study aims to analyze the relationship between the level of aerobic capacity and post-exercise restitution during the preparation period, with training experience and weekly training volume. All (12) athletes (six women; six men) participating in the training camp of the Polish national judo team in the cadet age group were tested. The Maximal Multistage 20-m Shuttle Run Test was used to investigate the level of aerobic capacity, and the Klonowicz coefficient of restitution (COR) 3 min after exercise (COR 3′) and 5 min after exercise (COR 5′) was used to determine the level of post-exercise restitution efficiency. The results showed that higher training experience significantly affected the deterioration of COR 3′ in female athletes and improved the results in the capacity test of male athletes. Female and male athletes with a higher weekly training volume had a higher HR at the end of the performance test. Considering the demonstrated correlations, special attention should be paid to matching the loads in training programs to the age of the athletes, introducing into training programs the teaching of body management during fatigue. Failing to adjust this may make participation impossible in competitions at the international level for older age groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise Strategies to Enhance Physical Performance and Human Health)

11 pages, 987 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Clinical Parameters of Dental Anxiety during Noninvasive Treatments in Dentistry

by Gabriela Gil-Abando, Paula Medina, Carolina Signorini, Elisabeth Casañas, Natalia Navarrete and Marta Muñoz-Corcuera

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11141; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711141 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1614

Abstract

Dental anxiety is a matter of interest for the dentist since an anxious patient is a potential source of complications in the dental office. The main objectives of this study are to describe the correlation between dental anxiety levels and the values of [...] Read more.

Dental anxiety is a matter of interest for the dentist since an anxious patient is a potential source of complications in the dental office. The main objectives of this study are to describe the correlation between dental anxiety levels and the values of physiological parameters related to dental anxiety and to study the evolution of blood pressure and heart rate over time during noninvasive dental treatments, i.e., not requiring local anesthesia. A descriptive, longitudinal, and prospective observational study was designed. The study population consisted of 200 patients who attended a university clinic for dental treatment without local anesthesia. The patients were asked to complete the Corah Dental Anxiety Scale. Afterward, blood pressure and heart rate were measured by means of a digital sphygmomanometer. Blood pressure and heart rate were taken throughout the procedure on four occasions. Most of the patients showed mild dental anxiety (5 [IQR: 3] points on Corah Dental Anxiety Scale). Significant but weak correlations were found between the level of dental anxiety and heart rate (Spearman rho: 0.166 and 0.176; p = 0.019 and 0.013; 3 min before and after treatment, respectively), as well as between the level of dental anxiety and the duration of treatment (Spearman rho: 0.191 3 min; p = 0.007). As for the evolution of physiological parameters, all patients showed a progressive decrease in values at different time points during treatment. When the types of treatment were evaluated separately, it was observed that there were statistically significant differences between them with respect to the level of dental anxiety (p = 0.006). Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Oral Health)

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15 pages, 478 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Complex Media Effects on Civic Participation Intention Amid COVID-19 Pandemic: Empirical Evidence from Wuhan College Students

by Xueyan Li, Ping Fu and Min Li

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11140; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711140 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1317

Abstract

In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, media exposure is crucial to motivate public action for the combat with COVID-19 pandemic. However, media effects on civic participation intention are understudied. This study applied the Differential Susceptibility to Media effects Model (DSMM) to explore [...] Read more.

In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, media exposure is crucial to motivate public action for the combat with COVID-19 pandemic. However, media effects on civic participation intention are understudied. This study applied the Differential Susceptibility to Media effects Model (DSMM) to explore the relations among Wuhan college students’ media use, their pandemic-relevant beliefs, and civic participation intention, with a focus on the possible mediation of pandemic-relevant beliefs. Data of 4355 students from a large-scale cross-sectional survey were analyzed. Results show that traditional media use and online media interaction both directly and indirectly affect civic participation intention via pandemic-relevant beliefs. Pandemic-relevant beliefs distort the relations that direct and indirect effects of new media use on civic participation intention are significant but in opposite directions. The influence of pandemic news on civic participation intention is entirely mediated by pandemic-relevant beliefs. To conclude, during pandemic, the role of traditional media use is unreplaceable in its direct and indirect impact on civic participation intention. Pandemic-relevant beliefs play as a distorter variable. The balance between overexposure and insufficiency of pandemic-relevant news is vital. Online media interaction, as a main trait of new media use, plays a crucial role in civic participation intention, directly and indirectly. Full article

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12 pages, 979 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Attitudes, Perceptions and Practices of Influenza Vaccination in the Adult Population: Results of a Cross-Sectional Survey in Spain

by Camino Prada-García, Virginia Fernández-Espinilla, Cristina Hernán-García, Iván Sanz-Muñoz, José Martínez-Olmos, Jose M. Eiros and Javier Castrodeza-Sanz

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11139; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711139 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2240

Abstract

In Spain, the 2021/22 influenza season overlapped with the sixth wave of the 2019 coronavirus disease pandemic (COVID-19). Influenza is a major public health problem associated with high morbidity and mortality. The objectives of this study were to determine the knowledge, perceptions and [...] Read more.

In Spain, the 2021/22 influenza season overlapped with the sixth wave of the 2019 coronavirus disease pandemic (COVID-19). Influenza is a major public health problem associated with high morbidity and mortality. The objectives of this study were to determine the knowledge, perceptions and practices of influenza vaccination in the Spanish population, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic, with special attention paid to people over 65 years of age. A cross-sectional study was carried out by conducting 2211 telephone interviews. It was observed that 81.6% of people ≥ 65 years were vaccinated annually or with some frequency compared to 35.5% of those under 65 years (p < 0.001). Fifty percent of Spaniards showed an intention to be vaccinated in the 2021/22 campaign, during the SARS-CoV2 pandemic. In the case of people ≥ 65 years old, this figure was 83% compared to 42% of those under 65 years old (p < 0.001). Significant predictors of intention to be vaccinated were age of 65 years or older (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.3–2.5), female sex (OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.5–2.4), belonging to risk groups (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.6–3.1) and having been previously vaccinated (OR 29.7, 95% CI 22.5–39.2). The main reasons for deciding to be vaccinated were the need to be protected against the virus and to be vaccinated annually. On the other hand, lack of recommendation and considering the influenza vaccine as not necessary were the main reasons for not getting vaccinated. In addition, health personnel stood out as the main source of information (32.9%) compared to traditional media (26.9%) and public administration (12.3%). This study aimed to assess and analyse the factors influencing willingness to receive influenza vaccines in the COVID-19 era among Spanish adults, as well as the main information channels and strategies to encourage vaccination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Care for Old Adults)

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11 pages, 382 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Potential Health Risk to Brazilian Infants by Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers Exposure via Breast Milk Intake

by Marília Cristina Oliveira Souza, Paula Pícoli Devóz, João Paulo Bianchi Ximenez, Mariana Zuccherato Bocato, Bruno Alves Rocha and Fernando Barbosa

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11138; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711138 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1477

Abstract

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are ubiquitous flame retardants and are environmentally persistent. PBDEs show endocrine disruption, neurotoxicity, and lower birth weight in infants, and their human body burden has become a public health concern. The infants’ exposure begins in the prenatal period and [...] Read more.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are ubiquitous flame retardants and are environmentally persistent. PBDEs show endocrine disruption, neurotoxicity, and lower birth weight in infants, and their human body burden has become a public health concern. The infants’ exposure begins in the prenatal period and continues via breast milk ingestion, although, little is known about the factors that may influence this exposure. In this study, PBDE levels in Brazilian breast milk were assessed in 200 lactating women. The risk assessment of infants’ exposure to PBDE was performed through the estimated daily intake (EDI) calculation. The geometric mean (GM) of ∑_PBDEs levels was 2.33 (0.14–6.05) ng/g wet weight. At least one PBDE congener was detected in the samples, and the 2,2′,4,4′-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47) showed a 100% of detection rate (GM of 1.05 ng/g). Location of residence, maternal level education, monthly salary, and race were positively associated with PBDE levels (p < 0.05). The EDI of BDE-47 was higher in Belo Horizonte (8.29 ng/kg/day) than in Viçosa (6.36 ng/kg/day), as well as for the ∑_PBDEs (19.77 versus 12.78 ng/kg/day) (p < 0.05). Taking the high detection rate of PBDEs in breast milk and their toxicity, continuous studies on infant exposure, fetal growth, and child neurodevelopment are requested. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)

10 pages, 1630 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Statistical Model of COVID-19 Infection Incidence in the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu

by Tanmay Devi and Kaushik Gopalan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11137; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711137 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1803

Abstract

In this manuscript, we present an analysis of COVID-19 infection incidence in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. We used seroprevalence survey data along with COVID-19 fatality reports from a six-month period (1 June 2020 to 30 November 2020) to estimate age- and [...] Read more.

In this manuscript, we present an analysis of COVID-19 infection incidence in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. We used seroprevalence survey data along with COVID-19 fatality reports from a six-month period (1 June 2020 to 30 November 2020) to estimate age- and sex-specific COVID-19 infection fatality rates (IFR) for Tamil Nadu. We used these IFRs to estimate new infections occurring daily using the daily COVID-19 fatality reports published by the Government of Tamil Nadu. We found that these infection incidence estimates for the second COVID wave in Tamil Nadu were broadly consistent with the infection estimates from seroprevalence surveys. Further, we propose a composite statistical model that pairs a k-nearest neighbours model with a power-law characterisation for “out-of-range” extrapolation to estimate the COVID-19 infection incidence based on observed cases and test positivity ratio. We found that this model matched closely with the IFR-based infection incidence estimates for the first two COVID-19 waves for both Tamil Nadu as well as the neighbouring state of Karnataka. Finally, we used this statistical model to estimate the infection incidence during the recent “Omicron wave” in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Advances in Machine Learning and Biostatistics Approaches in Public Health and Epidemiology)

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16 pages, 1834 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prediction of Wellness Condition for Community-Dwelling Elderly via ECG Signals Data-Based Feature Construction and Modeling

by Yang Zhao, Fan Xu, Xiaomao Fan, Hailiang Wang, Kwok-Leung Tsui and Yurong Guan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11136; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711136 - 05 Sep 2022

Viewed by 1550

Abstract

The accelerated growth of elderly populations in many countries and regions worldwide is creating a major burden to the healthcare system. Intelligent approaches for continuous health monitoring have the potential to promote the transition to more proactive and affordable healthcare. Electrocardiograms (ECGs), collected [...] Read more.

The accelerated growth of elderly populations in many countries and regions worldwide is creating a major burden to the healthcare system. Intelligent approaches for continuous health monitoring have the potential to promote the transition to more proactive and affordable healthcare. Electrocardiograms (ECGs), collected from portable devices, with noninvasive and cost-effective merits, have been widely used to monitor various health conditions. However, the dynamic and heterogeneous pattern of ECG signals makes relevant feature construction and predictive model development a challenging task. In this study, we aim to develop an integrated approach for one-day-forward wellness prediction in the community-dwelling elderly using single-lead short ECG signal data via multiple-features construction and predictive model implementation. Vital signs data from the elderly were collected via station-based equipment on a daily basis. After data preprocessing, a set of features were constructed from ECG signals based on the integration of various models, including time and frequency domain analysis, a wavelet transform-based model, ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD), and the refined composite multiscale sample entropy (RCMSE) model. Then, a machine learning based predictive model was established to map the l-day lagged features to wellness condition. The results showed that the approach developed in this study achieved the best performance for wellness prediction in the community-dwelling elderly. In practice, the proposed approach could be useful in the timely identification of elderly people who might have health risks, and could facilitating decision-making to take appropriate interventions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Technologies for Public Health Promotion)

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17 pages, 3571 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products across Different Water Bodies in Taihu Lake Basin, China: Occurrence, Source, and Flux

by Jichao Huang, Jiannan Ding, Hang Jiang, Zhenguo Wang, Lixing Zheng, Xiaojun Song and Hua Zou

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11135; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711135 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1630

Abstract

Although pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) have attracted great attentions, their occurrence characteristics across different water bodies at a basin scale remain poorly understood. To grasp a more comprehensive understanding of PPCP pollution from the perspective of the whole basin, the occurrence, [...] Read more.

Although pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) have attracted great attentions, their occurrence characteristics across different water bodies at a basin scale remain poorly understood. To grasp a more comprehensive understanding of PPCP pollution from the perspective of the whole basin, the occurrence, spatial and seasonal variation, source, and flux of thirteen PPCPs across the different environmental compartments of the northern Taihu Lake Basin (TLB) were studied. The results showed that the non-therapeutic pharmaceuticals caffeine (CFI) and n, n-diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET) were the main components across the different environmental compartments. The total concentrations of detected PPCPs ranged from 0.2 to 2437.9 ng/L. Higher concentrations of PPCPs were observed in spring and autumn, which were mainly attributed to seasonal differences in PPCP consumption. Generally, pollution level was higher in industry and agriculture area and in the inner bay and southwest of Taihu Lake. Source apportionment indicated that untreated water was the main source of PPCPs in river waters of the northern TLB. Flux estimation showed that the mean annual flux of PPCPs from northern TLB to Taihu Lake in 2021 was 1.6 t/a, which was higher in comparison with other areas. Overall, the resulting data will be useful to enrich the research of PPCPs in freshwater for environmental investigations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecological Risk Assessment of Water Body Pollution)

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13 pages, 3194 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Official Development Assistance for Water and Sanitation and Countries’ Needs from 2002 to 2019

by Sumin Kim, Seungman Cha and Yan Jin

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11134; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711134 - 05 Sep 2022

Viewed by 1586

Abstract

Although an enormous amount of aid has been invested in water and sanitation, few studies have analyzed the criteria used by the international community to select recipient countries and allocate official development assistance (ODA). We examined whether ODA has been allocated in proportion [...] Read more.

Although an enormous amount of aid has been invested in water and sanitation, few studies have analyzed the criteria used by the international community to select recipient countries and allocate official development assistance (ODA). We examined whether ODA has been allocated in proportion to water and sanitation needs and whether this has improved over the past 18 years. For water, 141 low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and least-developed countries (LDCs) were selected, whereas 104 LMICs and LDCs were chosen for sanitation due to a lack of data. For aid disbursement, we used ODA data from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Developments (OECD) Creditor Reporting System (CRS) from 2002 to 2019. OECD CRS data on water and sanitation are available from 2002 onward. For water and sanitation coverage, we collected data from the WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Program from 2002 to 2019. We examined annual ODA trends and performed linear regression analysis adjusted for GNI per capita using log-transformed dependent variables. Neither total ODA nor ODA per capita was found to be associated with countries’ needs for water and sanitation. For instance, no significant association was detected between at least basic water and sanitation coverage and total ODA per capita in 2019 (log coefficient: 0.002, p = 0.52). The global community needs to determine the reasons for and means of addressing this discrepancy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

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21 pages, 1741 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Focus on Self-Presentation on Social Media across Sociodemographic Variables, Lifestyles, and Personalities: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Gunnhild Johnsen Hjetland, Turi Reiten Finserås, Børge Sivertsen, Ian Colman, Randi Træland Hella and Jens Christoffer Skogen

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11133; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711133 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5857

Abstract

Upward social comparison and aspects of self-presentation on social media such as feedback-seeking and strategic self-presentation may represent risk factors for experiencing negative mental health effects of social media use. The aim of this exploratory study was to assess how adolescents differ in [...] Read more.

Upward social comparison and aspects of self-presentation on social media such as feedback-seeking and strategic self-presentation may represent risk factors for experiencing negative mental health effects of social media use. The aim of this exploratory study was to assess how adolescents differ in upward social comparison and aspects of self-presentation on social media and whether these differences are linked to sociodemographic variables, lifestyle, or personality. The study was based on cross-sectional data from the “LifeOnSoMe” study performed in Bergen, Norway, including 2023 senior high school pupils (response rate 54%, mean age 17.4, 44% boys). Nine potentially relevant items were assessed using factor analysis, and latent class analysis was used to identify latent classes with distinct patterns of responses across seven retained items. The retained items converged into one factor, called “focus on self-presentation”. We identified three groups of adolescents with a low, intermediate, and high focus on self-presentation. Associations between identified latent classes and covariates were assessed using regression analyses. Being a girl, higher extraversion, lower emotional stability, more frequent alcohol consumption, and having tried tobacco were associated with membership in the high-focus group. These results suggest some characteristics that are associated with a higher focus on self-presentation and that could inform targeted interventions. Full article

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13 pages, 1004 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hyper-Activity Books and Serious Games: How to Promote Experiential Learning beyond Distance

by Michela Ponticorvo, Elena Dell’Aquila and Raffaele Di Fuccio

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11132; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711132 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1744

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital tools for learning. Experiential learning, a crucial process in the educational pathway, can also be promoted at a distance. This paper describes HAB, hyper-activity books and serious games (SG) as methodologies to be used [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital tools for learning. Experiential learning, a crucial process in the educational pathway, can also be promoted at a distance. This paper describes HAB, hyper-activity books and serious games (SG) as methodologies to be used for assessment and training that overcome physical distancing due to COVID-19 in learning. We introduce some examples of these methodologies. The experiences and results represent a pool of resources for experiential learning in everyday educational practice and not merely for responding to emergencies caused by pandemics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue During and after COVID-19: Challenges and Paths for Psychosocial Well-Being of Young People)

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23 pages, 3684 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Boosting Sustainable Operations with Sustainable Supply Chain Modeling: A Case of Organizational Culture and Normative Commitment

by Sebastjan Lazar, Vojko Potočan, Dorota Klimecka-Tatar and Matevz Obrecht

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11131; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711131 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2790

Abstract

The importance of sustainability in supply chain management is growing worldwide. It is possible to find reasons for this using various phenomena that negatively affect humanity, e.g., climate change, scarce materials, supply disruptions, and complex fossil fuel dependency. Because of that, is extremely [...] Read more.

The importance of sustainability in supply chain management is growing worldwide. It is possible to find reasons for this using various phenomena that negatively affect humanity, e.g., climate change, scarce materials, supply disruptions, and complex fossil fuel dependency. Because of that, is extremely important to constantly look for new ways to systematically increase sustainability in enterprises and their logistics and supply chain processes by considering different stakeholders and influential factors. Therefore, this paper explores how different types of organizational culture and normative commitment impact sustainability and each other in business logistics and supply chains and develops a conceptual model to manage this challenge. Gaining new insights is valuable especially for managers to obtain better information on how to improve sustainability not just by integrating green technologies but mainly by changing culture, attitude, and perception in their enterprises. The research is focused on employees from global logistics or related branches in micro, small, medium, and large enterprises with the primary activity mostly related to manufacturing, transport, and storage. The findings are based on the questionnaire which was sent directly to 1576 employees from 528 enterprises. A total of 516 employees from enterprises that are mostly located in 34 countries responded to requests for participation. The results reveal statistically significant positive and negative impacts, e.g., clan culture has a positive statistically significant impact on the sustainable development of supply chains. Most of the connections to the eighth Sustainable Development Goal by the United Nations (decent work and economic growth) were also found, which was the enterprise’s highest priority with a share of 52.99%. A contribution to the theory development is gained using the developed model that considers both positive and negative statistically significant impacts studied. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Decision Models for Sustainable Development in the Carbon Neutrality Era)

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14 pages, 622 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nurses’ Involvement in the Development and Usability Assessment of an Innovative Peripheral Intravenous Catheterisation Pack: A Mix-Method Study

by Paulo Santos-Costa, Mariana Alves, Carolina Sousa, Liliana B. Sousa, Filipe Paiva-Santos, Rafael A. Bernardes, Filipa Ventura, Anabela Salgueiro-Oliveira, Pedro Parreira, Margarida Vieira and João Graveto

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11130; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711130 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2090

Abstract

Guaranteeing peripheral venous access is one of the cornerstones of modern healthcare. Recent evidence shows that the lack of adequate clinical devices can result in the provision of substandard care to patients who require peripheral intravenous catheterization (PIVC). To address this challenge, we [...] Read more.

Guaranteeing peripheral venous access is one of the cornerstones of modern healthcare. Recent evidence shows that the lack of adequate clinical devices can result in the provision of substandard care to patients who require peripheral intravenous catheterization (PIVC). To address this challenge, we aimed to develop a PIVC pack for adult patients and assess the usability of this new device. Methods: Following a mix-method design, the PIVC pack development and usability assessment were performed in two phases with the involvement of its potential end-users (nurses). In phase one (concept and semi-functional prototype assessment), focus group rounds were conducted, and a usability assessment questionnaire was applied at each stage. In phase two (pre-clinical usability assessment), a two-arm crossover randomised controlled trial (PIVC pack versus traditional material) was conducted with nurses in a simulated setting. Final interviews were conducted to further explore the PIVC pack applicability in a real-life clinical setting. Results: High average usability scores were identified in each study phase. During the pre-clinical usability assessment, the PIVC pack significantly reduced procedural time (Z = −2.482, p = 0.013) and avoided omissions while preparing the required material (Z = −1.977, p = 0.048). The participating nurses emphasised the pack’s potential to standardise practices among professionals, improve adherence to infection control recommendations, and enhance stock management. Conclusions: The developed pack appears to be a promising device that can assist healthcare professionals in providing efficient and safe care to patients requiring a PIVC. Future studies in real clinical settings are warranted to test its cost-effectiveness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Role of the Nursing Research in Patient Care Improvement)

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16 pages, 526 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does Smartphone Use Improve the Dietary Diversity of Rural Residents? Evidence from Household Survey Data from 5 Provinces

by Ting Jin and Lei Li

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11129; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711129 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1536

Abstract

The use of smartphones has profoundly changed the consumption patterns and living conditions of rural residents, but there is little research on how smartphone use affects the food consumption patterns of rural residents. This paper uses survey data from 1047 farmers from five [...] Read more.

The use of smartphones has profoundly changed the consumption patterns and living conditions of rural residents, but there is little research on how smartphone use affects the food consumption patterns of rural residents. This paper uses survey data from 1047 farmers from five Chinese provinces in 2020 to investigate the impact of smartphone use on the dietary diversity of rural residents, the underlying mechanism, and the corresponding group-level heterogeneity. The study finds that smartphone use has a significantly positive effect on the dietary diversity of rural residents and that the dietary diversity scores of rural residents who use smartphones to access the internet are a significant 4.2% higher than those of rural residents who do not. The results are robust to the use of instrumental variables and propensity score matching to account for potential endogeneity. The income effect and the transaction cost effect are the two mechanisms by which smartphone use improves the dietary diversity of rural residents. Compared with elderly residents and members of low-income households, young and middle-aged people and members of high-income households are more likely to use smartphones to improve their dietary diversity. The following recommendations for further improving the dietary diversity of rural residents are made: continue to increase the internet penetration rate and smartphone coverage rate in rural areas, conduct public welfare lectures on smartphone usage and nutrition and health knowledge, and improve the e-commerce distribution infrastructure in rural areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Consumption Behavior and Public Health)

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14 pages, 6065 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Properties and Heavy Metal Solidification Characteristics of Sintered Ceramsites Composed of Magnesite Tailings, Sewage Sludge, and Coal Gangue

by Yanlong Li, Mingyuan Xu, Quan Li, Anjun Gai, Tianhua Yang and Rundong Li

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11128; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711128 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1418

Abstract

With the rapid development of industry, the disposal of industrial solid waste needs to be solved urgently in China. Thus, an effective disposal method should be proposed to recycle these solid wastes in an environmentally friendly and sustainable manner. In this paper, ceramsite [...] Read more.

With the rapid development of industry, the disposal of industrial solid waste needs to be solved urgently in China. Thus, an effective disposal method should be proposed to recycle these solid wastes in an environmentally friendly and sustainable manner. In this paper, ceramsite was prepared from sewage sludge (SS), magnesite tailings (MTs), and coal gangue (CG). The influence of the material ratio and sintering temperature on the properties of the ceramsite was investigated. The results show that the ceramsite had better properties when the following parameters were used: a ratio of SS: CG: MT of 4.5:4:1.5; a sintering temperature of 1250 °C; a compressive strength of 11.2 MPa (or it can be rounded to 11; our major remark relates to significant figures, and they should be up to 2–3 figures, according to measurement errors); a water absorption of 3.54%; and apparent and bulk densities of 1.19 and 0.81 g/cm³, respectively. The strength was superior to more than twice the 900-density grade prescribed by the Chinese national standard. After sintering, most of the heavy metals in the ceramsite mainly existed in the form of residue state (FD), meaning that they were highly stable. The leaching concentrations of Zn and Ni from the ceramsite were 0.72 and 0.25 mg/L lower than the prescribed regulatory limits (2.0 and 0.1 mg/L). The overall pollution toxicity index (OPTI) was only 240, less than that of raw pellets, indicating that the environmental risk is low. Not only did the ceramsite, prepared from SS, CG, and MT, exhibit excellent chemical properties, but it also proved to be an environmentally safe material. Therefore, it is an effective approach to realize the collaborative treatment of SS, CG, and MT by preparing ceramsite. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Air Pollution Control, Solid Waste Treatment, and Environmental Catalysis)

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14 pages, 424 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development and Psychometric Assessment of a Questionnaire for the Detection of Invisible Violence against Women

by Iria Dobarrio-Sanz, Anabel Fernández-Vargas, Alba Fernández-Férez, Diana Patricia Vanegas-Coveña, Otilia Vanessa Cordero-Ahiman, José Granero-Molina, Cayetano Fernández-Sola and José Manuel Hernández-Padilla

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11127; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711127 - 05 Sep 2022

Viewed by 1957

Abstract

Background. Invisible violence against women (IVAW) can be understood as the set of attitudes, behaviors, and subtle beliefs that men use to subordinate women and that are culturally accepted. These behaviors can be a risk factor for intimate partner violence (IPV), so it [...] Read more.

Background. Invisible violence against women (IVAW) can be understood as the set of attitudes, behaviors, and subtle beliefs that men use to subordinate women and that are culturally accepted. These behaviors can be a risk factor for intimate partner violence (IPV), so it is important to design tools that allow us to detect it early. The aim of this study was to design and psychometrically assess a questionnaire for the detection of invisible violence against women (Q-IVAW). Methodology. A descriptive cross-sectional methodological study carried out in three phases: (1) development of the initial version; (2) pilot study (N = 51); and (3) final validation study (N = 990). The tool’s reliability, validity, and legibility were assessed. To assess reliability, the internal consistency (Cronbach’s α) was analyzed. The validity assessment included an analysis of content, criterion, and construct validity. Results. The EFA revealed that the Q-IVAW was comprised of five factors that explained 55.85% of the total variance found. The Q-IVAW showed very high reliability (α = 0.937), excellent content validity, and good construct validity. The criterion validity analysis showed a moderate correlation between A-IPVAW and Q-IVAW (r = 0.30; p < 0.001). Conclusion. The psychometric assessment of the Q-IVAW yielded good results, which could support the tool’s ability to assess how often women are subjected to inviable violent behaviors by their partners. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Holistic Approaches to Understanding and Caring for Vulnerable Populations)

21 pages, 1153 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigating the Risk Factors Associated with Injury Severity in Pedestrian Crashes in Santiago, Chile

by Angelo Rampinelli, Juan Felipe Calderón, Carola A. Blazquez, Karen Sauer-Brand, Nicolás Hamann and José Ignacio Nazif-Munoz

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11126; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711126 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1820

Abstract

Pedestrians are vulnerable road users that are directly exposed to road traffic crashes with high odds of resulting in serious injuries and fatalities. Therefore, there is a critical need to identify the risk factors associated with injury severity in pedestrian crashes to promote [...] Read more.

Pedestrians are vulnerable road users that are directly exposed to road traffic crashes with high odds of resulting in serious injuries and fatalities. Therefore, there is a critical need to identify the risk factors associated with injury severity in pedestrian crashes to promote safe and friendly walking environments for pedestrians. This study investigates the risk factors related to pedestrian, crash, and built environment characteristics that contribute to different injury severity levels in pedestrian crashes in Santiago, Chile from a spatial and statistical perspective. First, a GIS kernel density technique was used to identify spatial clusters with high concentrations of pedestrian crash fatalities and severe injuries. Subsequently, partial proportional odds models were developed using the crash dataset for the whole city and the identified spatial clusters to examine and compare the risk factors that significantly affect pedestrian crash injury severity. The model results reveal higher increases in the fatality probability within the spatial clusters for statistically significant contributing factors related to drunk driving, traffic signage disobedience, and imprudence of the pedestrian. The findings may be utilized in the development and implementation of effective public policies and preventive measures to help improve pedestrian safety in Santiago. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Public Health Statistics and Risk Assessment)

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30 pages, 1019 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Personality and Top Management Support in Continuance Intention to Use Electronic Health Record Systems among Nurses

by Adi Alsyouf, Awanis Ku Ishak, Abdalwali Lutfi, Fahad Nasser Alhazmi and Manaf Al-Okaily

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11125; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711125 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3428

Abstract

This study examines nurses’ Continuance Intention (CI) to use electronic health records (EHRs) through a combination of three conceptual frameworks: the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), the theory of expectation-confirmation (ECT), and the Five-Factor Model (FFM). A model is [...] Read more.

This study examines nurses’ Continuance Intention (CI) to use electronic health records (EHRs) through a combination of three conceptual frameworks: the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), the theory of expectation-confirmation (ECT), and the Five-Factor Model (FFM). A model is developed to examine and predict the determinants of nurses’ CI to use EHRs, including top management support (TMS) and the FFM’s five personality domains. Data were collected from a survey of 497 nurses, which were analyzed using partial least squares. No significant relationship was found between TMS and CI. The study revealed that performance expectancy significantly mediated the influences of two different hypotheses of two predictors: agreeableness and openness to testing CI. A significant moderating impact of conscientiousness was found on the relationship between performance expectancy and CI and the relationship between social influence and CI. The findings of this study indicated that rigorous attention to the personality of individual nurses and substantial TMS could improve nurses’ CI to use EHRs. A literature gap was filled concerning the mediating effects of performance expectancy on the FFM-CI relationship, and the moderation effects of Conscientiousness on UTAUT constructs and CI are another addition to the literature. The results are expected to assist government agencies, health policymakers, and health institutions all over the globe in their attempts to understand the post-adoption use of EHRs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Health and Point of Care: Contributions to the ‘New Normal’ of Healthcare Provision)

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9 pages, 616 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Comparison of ACL Injury Risk, Ski Geometry and Standing Height Parameters between Skiers with Rented and with Owned Skis

by Gerhard Ruedl, Markus Posch, Katja Tecklenburg, Alois Schranz, Martin Faulhaber, Elena Pocecco and Martin Burtscher

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11124; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711124 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1786

Abstract

Aim: to evaluate if ACL injuries are associated with recreational skiers using rented skis and whether individual factors, ski geometry parameters and standing heights differ between skiers who rented or owned skis. A retrospective questionnaire-based, case–control study of ACL-injured and uninjured recreational skiers [...] Read more.

Aim: to evaluate if ACL injuries are associated with recreational skiers using rented skis and whether individual factors, ski geometry parameters and standing heights differ between skiers who rented or owned skis. A retrospective questionnaire-based, case–control study of ACL-injured and uninjured recreational skiers was conducted during six winter seasons. Age, sex, body height, body weight, nationality, ownership of skis, skill level, risk-taking behavior, ski length, side-cut radius, widths of the tip, waist, and tail, and the standing heights at the front and rear components of the ski binding were assessed. Additionally, ratios between ski widths and a standing height ratio were calculated. Altogether, 1780 skiers (48.9% females) with a mean age of 39.2 ± 13.0 years participated, of whom 22.0% sustained an ACL injury and 32.3% rented skis. ACL injury risk was significantly associated with rented skis (OR 3.2, 95% CI 2.5–4.0). Compared to skiers using own skis, participants who rented skis were more likely female, smaller and lighter, tourists, less skilled and more cautious. In comparison to owned skis, rented skis showed significantly lower mean values in ski length, side-cut radius, ski widths, and for the three ski widths ratios. Additionally, standing heights were significantly lower while standing height ratio was higher for rented skis. Beside individual factors, equipment-related factors should be considered when renting skis in order to reduce ACL injury risk. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Traumas)

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12 pages, 9576 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization and Mechanistic Study of Heavy Metal Adsorption by Facile Synthesized Magnetic Xanthate-Modified Chitosan/Polyacrylic Acid Hydrogels

by Liming Dong, Chengyang Shan, Yuan Liu, Hua Sun, Bing Yao, Guizhen Gong, Xiaodong Jin and Shifan Wang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11123; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711123 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 2122

Abstract

A simple method was used to synthesize magnetic xanthate-modified chitosan/polyacrylic acid hydrogels that were used to remove heavy metal ions from an aqueous solution. Xanthate modification of chitosan significantly improved adsorption performance: individual adsorption capacities of the hydrogel for Cu(II), Cd(II), Pb(II), and [...] Read more.

A simple method was used to synthesize magnetic xanthate-modified chitosan/polyacrylic acid hydrogels that were used to remove heavy metal ions from an aqueous solution. Xanthate modification of chitosan significantly improved adsorption performance: individual adsorption capacities of the hydrogel for Cu(II), Cd(II), Pb(II), and Co(II) ions were 206, 178, 168, and 140 mg g⁻¹, respectively. The magnetic hydrogels had good regeneration ability and were effectively separated from the solution by use of a magnet. Adsorption kinetic data showed that the removal mechanism of heavy metal ions from the solution by magnetic hydrogels occurs mainly by chemical adsorption. The equilibrium adsorption isotherms were well-described by the Freundlich and Langmuir equations. Positive values were found for the Gibbs standard free energy and enthalpy, indicating an increase in the disorder at the solid–liquid interface during adsorption. Magnetic xanthate-modified chitosan-based hydrogels that exhibit high adsorption efficiency, regeneration, and easy separation from a solution have broad development prospects in various industrial sewage and wastewater treatment fields. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biological and Chemical Removal of Heavy Metals from Water)

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11 pages, 349 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Migration Intent of Health Care Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Kosovo

by Nora Murataj, Blerim Syla, Yllka Krasniqi, Shegë Bahtiri, Dardan Bekaj, Petrit Beqiri and Ilir S. Hoxha

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11122; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711122 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3400

Abstract

The migration of healthcare workers from developing countries to more economically developed countries is a long-standing and ongoing trend. Loss of qualified staff due to migration can negatively impact healthcare systems. Understanding factors that drive migration is essential to identifying and managing health [...] Read more.

The migration of healthcare workers from developing countries to more economically developed countries is a long-standing and ongoing trend. Loss of qualified staff due to migration can negatively impact healthcare systems. Understanding factors that drive migration is essential to identifying and managing health system needs. Our study explored factors related to the migration intent of healthcare staff in Kosovo, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic. We carried out a cross-sectional survey of healthcare workers from public and private institutions. The survey analysed the prevalence of willingness to migrate and whether willingness was affected by the pandemic, and calculated crude and adjusted odds ratios for variables which may influence migration willingness. 14.43% of healthcare workers reported aspiration to migrate, and 23.68% reported an increased chance of migrating after the pandemic. Dissatisfaction with wages and working conditions, higher education and private sector engagement were associated with increased odds of migration willingness. After the pandemic, factors related to interpersonal relationships and state response gave lower odds of migration intent. These findings point to potential factors associated with the migration of healthcare workers, which can help policymakers address gaps in national health system strategy. Full article

15 pages, 549 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Antecedents of Teachers’ Subjective Career Success

by Tri Muji Ingarianti, Fendy Suhariadi, Fajrianthi Fajrianthi and Ika Febrian Kristiana

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11121; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711121 - 05 Sep 2022

Viewed by 2149

Abstract

Career success is often seen as identical to objective matters such as high income and position. Meanwhile, one can see their success better when they build their own criteria of career success. In this regard, the present study aims to see the effect [...] Read more.

Career success is often seen as identical to objective matters such as high income and position. Meanwhile, one can see their success better when they build their own criteria of career success. In this regard, the present study aims to see the effect of internal (i.e., career commitment and professional commitment) and external variables (leader–member exchange and perceived organizational support) on teachers’ subjective career success. This quantitative study involved 320 teachers as participants, recruited using the accidental sampling technique. The data were collected using The Career Commitment Measure, Professional Commitment Scale, Leader–Member Exchange Multidimensionality, Survey of Perceived Organizational Support, and Subjective Career Success Inventory. The analysis result shows that career commitment, professional commitment, leader–member exchange, and perceived organizational support significantly affect teachers’ career success. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Work)

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12 pages, 349 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Between Healthcare Practitioners and Clergy: Evangelicals and COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy

by Jeanine P. D. Guidry, Carrie A. Miller, Paul B. Perrin, Linnea I. Laestadius, Gina Zurlo, Matthew W. Savage, Michael Stevens, Bernard F. Fuemmeler, Candace W. Burton, Thomas Gültzow and Kellie E. Carlyle

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11120; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711120 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2536

Abstract

Evangelical Christians are among the most hesitant to get the COVID-19 vaccine. This study examined the extent to which COVID-19 vaccination uptake among Evangelicals is explained by demographic characteristics, Health Belief Model constructs, and faith-based support factors. Survey research firm Qualtrics recruited 531 [...] Read more.

Evangelical Christians are among the most hesitant to get the COVID-19 vaccine. This study examined the extent to which COVID-19 vaccination uptake among Evangelicals is explained by demographic characteristics, Health Belief Model constructs, and faith-based support factors. Survey research firm Qualtrics recruited 531 U.S. adults and conducted a survey to explore predictors of COVID-19 vaccine uptake among people who self-identified as Evangelicals in September 2021. A logistic regression showed that those reporting high perceived benefits of the COVID-19 vaccine were more likely to be vaccinated, while those reporting high perceived barriers were less likely to be vaccinated. Those whose healthcare provider asked them about the vaccine were more likely to be vaccinated than those whose healthcare provider did not ask. Finally, while those who reported information seeking from religious leaders were less likely to be vaccinated, those who reported more faith-based support for vaccination were more likely to be vaccinated. In addition to beliefs about benefits and barriers to vaccination, the role of healthcare providers and clergy were important factors influencing vaccination status. Intervention efforts that capitalize on partnerships between health providers and clergy in supportive congregations may be able to reach undecided Evangelicals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccine Hesitancy and COVID-19)

28 pages, 2347 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Innovative Technological Approach for the Cyclic Nutrients Adsorption by Post-Digestion Sewage Sludge-Based Ash Co-Formed with Some Nanostructural Additives under a Circular Economy Framework

by Piotr Sakiewicz, Krzysztof Piotrowski, Mariola Rajca, Izabella Maj, Sylwester Kalisz, Józef Ober, Janusz Karwot and Krishna R. Pagilla

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11119; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711119 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1694

Abstract

This paper presents a new, innovative technological approach, in line with Circular Economy principles, to the effective management of sludge generated during municipal wastewater treatment processes and subsequently used for biogas production. This approach allows for optimal, functional, and controlled cascade-type biotechnological thermal [...] Read more.

This paper presents a new, innovative technological approach, in line with Circular Economy principles, to the effective management of sludge generated during municipal wastewater treatment processes and subsequently used for biogas production. This approach allows for optimal, functional, and controlled cascade-type biotechnological thermal conversion of carbon compounds present in sewage sludge, later in solid digestate residues (after biogas production), and finally in the ash structure (after incineration, purposefully dosed nanostructural additives make the production of a useful solid product possible, especially for cyclic adsorption and slow release of nutrients (N, P, K) in the soil). The idea is generally targeted at achieving an innovative conversion cycle under a Circular Economy framework. In particular, it is based on an energy carrier (methane biogas) and direct energy production. The functionalized combustion by-products can be advantageous in agriculture. The use of ashes with nanostructural additives (halloysite, kaolinite) from combustion of sewage sludge after the anaerobic fermentation as an adsorbent of selected nutrients important in agriculture (Na⁺, K⁺, NO₃⁻, SO₄²⁻, PO₄³⁻, Cl⁻) was verified at laboratory scale. The tests were carried out both for pure ash and for the ash derived from combustion with the purposeful addition of kaolinite or halloysite. The equilibrium conditions for nitrate, potassium, sodium, phosphate(V), sulphate(VI), and chloride ions from aqueous solutions with the use of the three adsorbent structures were determined. The obtained innovative results were interpreted theoretically with adsorption isotherm models (Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, Jovanović). The most spectacular and clearly favorable results related to the influence of nanostructural additives in the process of sludge combustion, and formation of sorption surfaces under high temperature conditions were identified in the case of sorption-based separation of phosphate(V) ions (an increase from 1.13% to 61.24% with the addition of kaolinite, and even up to 76.19% with addition of halloysite). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation in Environmental Protection and Public Health: Social, Economic and Ecological Approaches)

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9 pages, 470 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perception of Tunisian Public Health Practitioners on the Role of Primary Health Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Sarra Melki, Donia Ben Hassine, Dhekra Chebil, Sarra Nouira, Youssef Zanina and Ahmed Ben Abdelaziz

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11118; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711118 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1888

Abstract

Context: Primary Health Care is the first level of healthcare delivery services. Its role in the management of epidemics has been documented especially during the SARS and Ebola epidemics, and more recently during the COVID-19 pandemic. Objective: To describe public health experts’ perceptions [...] Read more.

Context: Primary Health Care is the first level of healthcare delivery services. Its role in the management of epidemics has been documented especially during the SARS and Ebola epidemics, and more recently during the COVID-19 pandemic. Objective: To describe public health experts’ perceptions of the implication of Primary Health Care on managing the COVID-19 pandemic in Tunisia. Methods: This qualitative study was based on a structured interview covering five domains: 1. Preparedness, 2. Implication, 3. Health delivery, 4. Response and 5. Fight against COVID-19 in Primary Health Care in Tunisia. Convenient sampling was done to include public health practitioners and experts. Results: A total of 25 experts were included with a sex ratio that was equal to 0.92, including two international experts, and four that were working in the Ministry of Health. The majority of respondents affirmed that the Tunisian PHC was not prepared to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Concerning the response role of PHC against COVID-19, some experts stated that PHC played an important role in the early stages of the pandemic. Almost all included participants claimed that PHC was marginalized from the national strategy against COVID-19. In addition, all respondents affirmed that there had been a weakening effect of the delivery of the minimum healthcare package that was dispended by the PHC after the pandemic. However, they all expressed the ability of PHC to manage future epidemics. Conclusion: The Tunisian PHC system did not play an efficient role in the current COVID-19 pandemic. However future lessons should be deduced for further implications in potential upcoming epidemics. Full article

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8 pages, 617 KiB

Open AccessArticle

COVID-19 as a Potential Cause of Muscle Injuries in Professional Italian Serie A Soccer Players: A Retrospective Observational Study

by Giuseppe Annino, Vincenzo Manzi, Anas Radi Alashram, Cristian Romagnoli, Mattia Coniglio, Niloofar Lamouchideli, Marco Alfonso Perrone, Dolores Limongi and Elvira Padua

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11117; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711117 - 05 Sep 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2340

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has shocked the entire planet. The soccer world has also suffered major upheavals, and many professional soccer players have been infected with the virus. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of injuries in Italian Serie A [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic has shocked the entire planet. The soccer world has also suffered major upheavals, and many professional soccer players have been infected with the virus. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of injuries in Italian Serie A professional soccer players before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We evaluated the incidence of muscle injuries between four competitive seasons of the Italian Serie A (2016–2017, 2017–2018, and 2018–2019 pre-COVID-19 vs. 2020/2021 post-COVID-19) in professional soccer players. Results: Significant differences were found in muscular injuries between the post-COVID-19 season and the previous seasons (p < 0.001). The median split of the players’ positivity duration was of 15 days. The players’ long positivity (PLP) group showed a significant number of muscular injuries compared to the players’ short positivity (PSP) group (p < 0.0014, ES = 0.81, Large). The total teams’ days of positivity were significantly related to the total team number of muscular injuries (r = 0.86; CI 95% 0.66 to 0.94; p < 0.0001). In conclusion, this data showed that the competitive season post-COVID-19 lockdown has a higher incidence of muscle injuries in Italian Serie A soccer players compared to the pre-pandemic competitive season. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness)

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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health, Volume 19, Issue 17 (September-1 2022) – 684 articles

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