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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health, Volume 19, Issue 20 (October-2 2022) – 731 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): Tourism in national parks and nature provides a mechanism to bring nature-based therapies into mainstream mental healthcare. This is of major economic importance in global recovery of mental health, which declined severely during the COVID-19 pandemic. Countries have adopted a variety of different approaches. Some, e.g., Australia, are focused on the design of activities; others, e.g., China, on provision of facilities. Research priorities include benefits of tour guides or psychologists, compared to self-guided nature experiences; comparisons between repeated brief visits and one-off nature holidays; relative effects of biodiversity, flagship species, and scenic or wilderness quality; and differences between individuals, depending on personalities, life histories, and mental health status and symptoms. View this paper
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11 pages, 1894 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Taping Improves Landing Biomechanics in Young Volleyball Athletes
by Chih-Kuan Wu, Yin-Chou Lin, Chi-Ping Lai, Hsin-Ping Wang and Tsung-Hsun Hsieh
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13716; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013716 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2802
Abstract
Poor landing biomechanics such as hip adduction, internal rotation, and knee valgus have been recognized as modifiable risk factors of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Dynamic taping is a newly developed technique with better elasticity and extensibility, which could change the landing biomechanics. [...] Read more.
Poor landing biomechanics such as hip adduction, internal rotation, and knee valgus have been recognized as modifiable risk factors of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Dynamic taping is a newly developed technique with better elasticity and extensibility, which could change the landing biomechanics. The purpose of this study was to identify whether dynamic taping could improve lower limb biomechanics in athletes. Forty-two high school volleyball athletes (21 males and 21 females) participated in the study. Biomechanical properties, including the landing error scoring system (LESS) and anterior–posterior knee laxity, were evaluated before and after the application of dynamic tape while athletes performed the jump-landing task. As a result, we found that dynamic tape significantly reduced the faulty landing strategy by an average of 0.64 errors in all volleyball athletes. The effect induced by dynamic tape was more prominent in female athletes and high-risk athletes (1.1 errors). Furthermore, the application of dynamic tape improved anterior–posterior knee laxity, especially in female athletes (p < 0.001). In conclusion, we found that dynamic tape provided a short-term, passive, and clinically significant means to normalize inadequate biomechanics during landing in athlete groups, which could have a protective effect and further alleviate the risk of ACL injury. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine and Sports Science)
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26 pages, 1744 KiB  
Opinion
Contribution of Home Gardens to Sustainable Development: Perspectives from A Supported Opinion Essay
by Mário Santos, Helena Moreira, João Alexandre Cabral, Ronaldo Gabriel, Andreia Teixeira, Rita Bastos and Alfredo Aires
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13715; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013715 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4947
Abstract
Home gardening has a long history that started when humans became sedentary, being traditionally considered an accessible source of food and medicinal plants to treat common illnesses. With trends towards urbanization and industrialization, particularly in the post-World War II period, the importance of [...] Read more.
Home gardening has a long history that started when humans became sedentary, being traditionally considered an accessible source of food and medicinal plants to treat common illnesses. With trends towards urbanization and industrialization, particularly in the post-World War II period, the importance of home gardens as important spaces for growing food and medicinal plants reduced and they began to be increasingly seen as decorative and leisure spaces. However, the growing awareness of the negative impacts of agricultural intensification and urbanization for human health, food quality, ecosystem resilience, and biodiversity conservation motivated the emergence of new approaches concerning home gardens. Societies began to question the potential of nearby green infrastructures to human wellbeing, food provisioning, and the conservation of traditional varieties, as well as providers of important services, such as ecological corridors for wild species and carbon sinks. In this context. and to foster adaptive and resilient social–ecological systems, our supported viewpoint intends to be more than an exhaustive set of perceptions, but a reflection of ideas about the important contribution of home gardens to sustainable development. We envision these humble spaces strengthening social and ecological components, by providing a set of diversified and intermingled goods and services for an increasingly urban population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Sustainability of Agricultural Systems: Concepts, Practices and Drawbacks)
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14 pages, 523 KiB  
Article
Patient Acceptability of Home Monitoring for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration Reactivation: A Qualitative Study
by Seán R. O’Connor, Charlene Treanor, Elizabeth Ward, Robin A. Wickens, Abby O’Connell, Lucy A. Culliford, Chris A. Rogers, Eleanor A. Gidman, Tunde Peto, Paul C. Knox, Benjamin J. L. Burton, Andrew J. Lotery, Sobha Sivaprasad, Barnaby C. Reeves, Ruth E. Hogg, Michael Donnelly and MONARCH Study Group
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13714; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013714 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1699
Abstract
Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) is a chronic, progressive condition and the commonest cause of visual disability in older adults. This study formed part of a diagnostic test accuracy study to quantify the ability of three index home monitoring (HM) tests (one paper-based [...] Read more.
Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) is a chronic, progressive condition and the commonest cause of visual disability in older adults. This study formed part of a diagnostic test accuracy study to quantify the ability of three index home monitoring (HM) tests (one paper-based and two digital tests) to identify reactivation in nAMD. The aim of this qualitative research was to investigate patients’ or participants’ views about acceptability and explore adherence to weekly HM. Semi-structured interviews were held with 78/297 participants (26%), with close family members (n = 11) and with healthcare professionals involved in training participants in HM procedures (n = 9) (n = 98 in total). A directed thematic analytical approach was applied to the data using a deductive and inductive coding framework informed by theories of technology acceptance. Five themes emerged related to: 1. The role of HM; 2. Suitability of procedures and instruments; 3. Experience of HM; 4. Feasibility of HM in usual practice; and 5. Impediments to patient acceptability of HM. Various factors influenced acceptability including a patient’s understanding about the purpose of monitoring. While initial training and ongoing support were regarded as essential for overcoming unfamiliarity with use of digital technology, patients viewed HM as relatively straightforward and non-burdensome. There is a need for further research about how use of performance feedback, level of support and nature of tailoring might facilitate further the implementation of routinely conducted HM. Home monitoring was acceptable to patients and they recognised its potential to reduce clinic visits during non-active treatment phases. Findings have implications for implementation of digital HM in the care of older people with nAMD and other long-term conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Digital Health Approaches for the Management of Chronic Conditions)
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19 pages, 2328 KiB  
Article
Telling You More Fluently: Effect of the Joint Presentation of Eco-Label Information on Consumers’ Purchase Intention
by Xingyuan Wang, Yingying Du, Yun Liu and Shuyang Wang
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13713; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013713 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2708
Abstract
An eco-label is an important tool for identifying green products in the marketplace. Most eco-labels, however, present a single icon that is simple and carries limited information, thus creating cognitive barriers for consumers. As a result, eco-labels might not always effectively promote green [...] Read more.
An eco-label is an important tool for identifying green products in the marketplace. Most eco-labels, however, present a single icon that is simple and carries limited information, thus creating cognitive barriers for consumers. As a result, eco-labels might not always effectively promote green consumption. Based on dual coding theory and the spatial contiguity effect, this study investigated the effect of the “joint presentation of eco-label information” (JPEI), which adds (functional/emotional) descriptive text to eco-labels, on improving consumers’ cognitive fluency in eco-labels and subsequent purchase intention. We conducted three studies and found that, compared with the “single presentation of eco-label information” (SPEI), JPEI improved the cognitive fluency of consumers with low eco-label knowledge. Furthermore, spatially contiguous JPEI was more effective than spatially partitioned JPEI for consumers with low eco-label knowledge. In addition, we specifically explored the information types of JPEI that were effective for consumers with low eco-label knowledge. Low-construal consumers had higher cognitive fluency and higher purchase intentions under functional JPEI, and high-construal consumers had higher cognitive fluency and higher purchase intentions under emotional JPEI. The results of this study enrich eco-label research and can provide theoretical guidance for marketing practices in eco-labels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Energy Efficiency, Environment and Health)
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11 pages, 494 KiB  
Article
Prevalence of Psychopathological Symptoms and Their Determinants in Four Healthcare Workers’ Categories during the Second Year of COVID-19 Pandemic
by Alessandra Gorini, Mattia Giuliani, Elena Fiabane, Alice Bonomi, Paola Gabanelli, Antonia Pierobon, Pasquale Moretta, Giovanna Pagliarulo, Simona Spaccavento, Gaetano Vaudo, Matteo Pirro, Massimo R. Mannarino, Laura Milani, Maria Paola Caruso, Paola Baiardi, Laura Adelaide Dalla Vecchia, Maria Teresa La Rovere, Caterina Pistarini and Damiano Baldassarre
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13712; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013712 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1735
Abstract
Highly stressful situations, such as the current COVID-19 pandemic, induce constant changes in the mental state of people who experience them. In the present study, we analyzed the prevalence of some psychological symptoms and their determinants in four different categories of healthcare workers [...] Read more.
Highly stressful situations, such as the current COVID-19 pandemic, induce constant changes in the mental state of people who experience them. In the present study, we analyzed the prevalence of some psychological symptoms and their determinants in four different categories of healthcare workers during the second year of the pandemic. A total of 265 physicians, 176 nurses, 184 other healthcare professionals, and 48 administrative employees, working in different Italian healthcare contexts, answered a questionnaire including variables about their mental status and experience with the pandemic. The mean scores for anxiety and depressive symptoms measured more than one year after the onset of the pandemic did not reach the pathological threshold. In contrast, post-traumatic and burnout symptoms tended toward the critical threshold, especially in physicians. The main determinant of psychological distress was perceived stress, followed by job satisfaction, the impact of COVID-19 on daily work, and a lack of recreational activities. These results increase the knowledge of which determinants of mental distress would be important to act on when particularly stressful conditions exist in the workplace that persist over time. If well-implemented, specific interventions focused on these determinants could lead to an improvement in employee well-being and in the quality of care provided. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition of Survey about Psychological Health)
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13 pages, 1039 KiB  
Study Protocol
Creation of a Pilot School Health Research Network in an English Education Infrastructure to Improve Adolescent Health and Well-Being: A Study Protocol
by Catherine A. Sharp, Emily Widnall, Patricia N. Albers, Kate Willis, Colin Capner, Judi Kidger, Frank de Vocht, Eileen Kaner, Esther M. F. van Sluijs, Hannah Fairbrother, Russell Jago and Rona Campbell
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13711; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013711 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2088
Abstract
Schools play a significant role in promoting health and well-being and the reciprocal links between health and educational attainment are well-evidenced. Despite recognition of the beneficial impact of school-based health improvement programmes, significant barriers to improving health and well-being within schools remain. This [...] Read more.
Schools play a significant role in promoting health and well-being and the reciprocal links between health and educational attainment are well-evidenced. Despite recognition of the beneficial impact of school-based health improvement programmes, significant barriers to improving health and well-being within schools remain. This study pilots a School Health Research Network in the South West of England (SW-SHRN), a systems-based health intervention bringing together schools, academic health researchers and public health and/or education teams in local authorities to share knowledge and expertise to improve the health and well-being of young people. A maximum of 20 secondary schools will be recruited to the pilot SW-SHRN. All students in Years 8 (age 12–13) and 10 (age 14–15) will be invited to complete a health and well-being questionnaire, generating a cohort of approximately 5000 adolescents. School environment questionnaires will also be completed with each school to build a regional picture of existing school health policies and programmes. Each school will be provided with a report summarising data for their students benchmarked against data for all schools in the network. Quantitative analysis will model associations between health risk behaviours and mental health outcomes and a qualitative process evaluation will explore the feasibility and sustainability of the network. This study will create adolescent health data to help provide schools and local authorities with timely and robust information on the health and well-being of their students and help them to identify areas in which public health interventions may be required. SW-SHRN will also help public health professionals focus their resources in the areas most at need. Full article
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17 pages, 7063 KiB  
Article
Simulation on the Permeability Evaluation of a Hybrid Liner for the Prevention of Contaminant Diffusion in Soils Contaminated with Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon
by Jeongjun Park and Gigwon Hong
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13710; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013710 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1390
Abstract
This study describes the test results to evaluate the impermeability efficiency, according to the total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) reaction time of a hybrid liner for preventing the TPH diffusion, and the numerical analysis results, according to the various TPH reaction times of the [...] Read more.
This study describes the test results to evaluate the impermeability efficiency, according to the total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) reaction time of a hybrid liner for preventing the TPH diffusion, and the numerical analysis results, according to the various TPH reaction times of the hybrid liner. The experimental results indicated that the hybrid liner performed effectively as an impermeable material under the condition of a 4 h reaction time between TPH and the hybrid liner. In other words, the permeability of the hybrid liner was lower than 7.64 × 10−7 cm/s when the reaction time of the TPH and the hybrid liner exceeded 4 h. This means that polynorbornene applied as a reactant becomes completely gelated four hours after it reacts with TPH, demonstrating its applicability as a liner. The numerical analysis results to evaluate the TPH diffusion, according to the hybrid liner-TPH reaction time indicated that the concentration decreased, compared to the initial concentration as the hybrid liner-TPH reaction time increased, regardless of the head-difference and the observation point for all concentration conditions. In addition, the reduction ratio of the concentration, compared to the initial concentration was 99% ~ 100%, when the reaction time of the hybrid liner-TPH was more than 4 h. It was found that the concentration diffusion of TPH reacting with the hybrid liner was decreased when the distance from the hybrid liner and the reaction time of the hybrid liner-TPH were increased. In other words, in the case of a high-TPH condition, the concentration reduction ratio is 12.5~17.8%, 16.9~29.7%, depending on the distance ratio (D/L = 0.06, 0.54, 0.94), respectively, when the reaction time of the hybrid liner-TPH is 0 h and 0.5 h, respectively. In the case of medium- and low-TPH conditions, the concentration reduction ratio, according to the distance ratio is 12.0% to 20.8% and 17.0% to 29.8%, respectively. This result means that a numerical analysis model can be used sufficiently to predict the TPH diffusion, according to the distance from the location where the hybrid liner is installed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecological Restoration of Contaminated Soil)
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9 pages, 651 KiB  
Protocol
DASHES Protocol: Development and Feasibility Testing of a Tailored Community Programme to Support People in Recovery from Problematic Alcohol and Drug Use to Cut Down or Stop Smoking Using Co-Creation
by Fiona Dobbie, Martine Miller, Man Hei Marcus Kam, Aoife McKenna, Claire Glen and Alison McCallum
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13709; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013709 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2310
Abstract
Background: Despite the continued global decline in adult tobacco prevalence, rates continue to be significantly higher in groups with problematic drug or alcohol use (PDA). It is estimated that people with alcohol, drug or mental health problems account for approximately half of all [...] Read more.
Background: Despite the continued global decline in adult tobacco prevalence, rates continue to be significantly higher in groups with problematic drug or alcohol use (PDA). It is estimated that people with alcohol, drug or mental health problems account for approximately half of all smoking deaths. In the UK, there are free stop smoking services for the general population. However, these services have been criticized as unsuitable for people in recovery from PDA due to their design, time-limited support, strict requirement for smoking abstinence and lack of consideration of harm reduction approaches. This has led to calls for alternative approaches to support this marginalized and underserved group. This research study seeks to respond to this call by co-creating and feasibility testing a tailored, trauma-informed service specifically for people seeking help for PDA, who are not in immediate crisis, and who may also want to reduce or stop their tobacco smoking. Methods: The mixed-method study design has two parts. The development study (part one) will use participatory peer research methods to work with the target client group and key stakeholders involved in service delivery, commissioning, and policy to design the service (intervention). The feasibility study (part two) will test the delivery of the intervention protocol and capture data that will enable the assessment of whether progression to a future pilot randomized control trial is merited. Conclusions: The outcome of this study will be a theoretically informed, co-created intervention with the potential to improve population health by supporting people with problematic drug or alcohol use to cut down or stop tobacco smoking. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Implementation and Perspective on Community Based Health Promotion Interventions)
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10 pages, 856 KiB  
Article
Reliability and Validity of the Korean Version of the High-Performance Work System Scale (HPWS-K)
by Hyesun Kim, Kawoun Seo and Taejeong Jang
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13708; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013708 - 21 Oct 2022
Viewed by 1361
Abstract
The application of the concept of high-performance work system (HPWS) to nurses can improve the quality of nursing care by enhancing nurse supply and patient safety culture. This study aimed to test the validity and reliability of the Korean version of the HPWS [...] Read more.
The application of the concept of high-performance work system (HPWS) to nurses can improve the quality of nursing care by enhancing nurse supply and patient safety culture. This study aimed to test the validity and reliability of the Korean version of the HPWS Scale (HPWS-K) and verify its adequacy for measuring HPWS within the context of nurses working in Korean hospitals. Data analyses were performed by using data from 214 nurses engaged in patient care in Korean general hospitals with over 300 beds, with SPSS version 22.0 and AMOS version 26.0 software. The data collected were translated into Korean and the adapted Korean version was back-translated into English by bilingual nursing professionals. The content validity of the HPWS-K was tested by administering it to 10 participants, and the collected data underwent reliability and validity testing. In the exploratory factor analysis, the total variance explained was 49.97%, and the instrument’s reliability (Cronbach’s α) was 0.87. A one-factor confirmatory factor analysis showed an acceptable model fit. The results confirmed the feasibility of using the HPWS-K with Korean nurses, and its application in this context is expected to contribute to creating a safe and effective healthcare environment in Korea. Full article
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16 pages, 513 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Intersections of Migration, Gender, and Sexual Health with Indonesian Women in Perth, Western Australia
by Corie Gray, Gemma Crawford, Bruce Maycock and Roanna Lobo
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13707; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013707 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1954
Abstract
This paper explores the intersections of migration, gender, and sexual health with Indonesian women living in Perth, Western Australia. The study was part of a larger participatory action research project to co-design an intervention to increase HIV testing in migrant Indonesian women. Unstructured [...] Read more.
This paper explores the intersections of migration, gender, and sexual health with Indonesian women living in Perth, Western Australia. The study was part of a larger participatory action research project to co-design an intervention to increase HIV testing in migrant Indonesian women. Unstructured interviews were conducted with adult Indonesian women (n = 10) on their experiences of migration and sexual health. Zimmerman’s migration phases (pre-departure and travel, destination, and return) provided a framework to conceptualize women’s migration journeys. We found that women’s migration journeys were shaped by gender, with male-led migration often reinforcing gender norms. Structural and sociocultural factors (including visa status) influenced women’s sense of belonging while living in Australia, such as help-seeking behaviour and engagement in sexual relationships. Intersecting factors of gender, culture, and the migration process should be considered when designing public health interventions to improve women’s sexual health, in particular migration policies and procedures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Migration, Population Mobility and Public Health: Focus on Vulnerable and Marginalised Populations)
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15 pages, 1046 KiB  
Article
The Effectiveness of Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) Irradiation on the Viability of Airborne Pseudomonas aeruginosa
by Thi Tham Nguyen, Congrong He, Robyn Carter, Emma L. Ballard, Kim Smith, Robert Groth, Esa Jaatinen, Timothy J. Kidd, Thuy-Khanh Nguyen, Rebecca E. Stockwell, George Tay, Graham R. Johnson, Scott C. Bell and Luke D. Knibbs
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13706; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013706 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2159
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) is the predominant bacterial pathogen in people with cystic fibrosis (CF) and can be transmitted by airborne droplet nuclei. Little is known about the ability of ultraviolet band C (UV-C) irradiation to inactivate Pa at doses and conditions [...] Read more.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) is the predominant bacterial pathogen in people with cystic fibrosis (CF) and can be transmitted by airborne droplet nuclei. Little is known about the ability of ultraviolet band C (UV-C) irradiation to inactivate Pa at doses and conditions relevant to implementation in indoor clinical settings. We assessed the effectiveness of UV-C (265 nm) at up to seven doses on the decay of nebulized Pa aerosols (clonal Pa strain) under a range of experimental conditions. Experiments were done in a 400 L rotating sampling drum. A six-stage Andersen cascade impactor was used to collect aerosols inside the drum and the particle size distribution was characterized by an optical particle counter. UV-C effectiveness was characterized relative to control tests (no UV-C) of the natural decay of Pa. We performed 112 tests in total across all experimental conditions. The addition of UV-C significantly increased the inactivation of Pa compared with natural decay alone at all but one of the UV-C doses assessed. UV-C doses from 246–1968 µW s/cm2 had an estimated effectiveness of approximately 50–90% for airborne Pa. The effectiveness of doses ≥984 µW s/cm2 were not significantly different from each other (p-values: 0.365 to ~1), consistent with a flattening of effectiveness at higher doses. Modelling showed that delivering the highest dose associated with significant improvement in effectiveness (984 µW s/cm2) to the upper air of three clinical rooms would lead to lower room doses from 37–49% of the 8 h occupational limit. Our results suggest that UV-C can expedite the inactivation of nebulized airborne Pa under controlled conditions, at levels that can be delivered safely in occupied settings. These findings need corroboration, but UV-C may have potential applications in locations where people with CF congregate, coupled with other indoor and administrative infection control measures. Full article
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6 pages, 278 KiB  
Brief Report
Effect of Academic Self-Efficacy and Career Decision Level on Career Preparation Behavior of South Korean College Students
by Hyemin Kim and Young-An Ra
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13705; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013705 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1616
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the mediating role of the career decision level (decidedness and comfort) of South Korean college students regarding the relationships between academic self-efficacy and career preparation behavior. For this purpose, the study collected and analyzed data [...] Read more.
The purpose of this study was to examine the mediating role of the career decision level (decidedness and comfort) of South Korean college students regarding the relationships between academic self-efficacy and career preparation behavior. For this purpose, the study collected and analyzed data on 296 South Korean college students using SPSS 22.0 and Hayes’ (2013) Process Macro tool. The results of the study are as follows. Academic self-efficacy was positively associated with career decision level and career preparation behavior, and career decision level was positively associated with career preparation behavior. In terms of the mediation effect, the career decision level partially mediated the relationships between academic self-efficacy and career preparation behavior. The results of the study provide useful suggestions for interventions in the career counseling of college students. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Adolescents)
11 pages, 332 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Depressive and Insomnia Symptoms in Quality of Life among Community-Dwelling Older Adults
by Konstantinos Tsaras, Maria Tsiantoula, Dimitrios Papagiannis, Ioanna V. Papathanasiou, Maria Chatzi, Martha Kelesi, Evridiki Kaba and Evangelos C. Fradelos
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13704; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013704 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1785
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of depressive symptoms, insomnia symptoms, and comorbid depressive and insomnia symptoms on the quality of life among community-dwelling older adults in an urban area of central Greece. A cross-sectional study was conducted on [...] Read more.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of depressive symptoms, insomnia symptoms, and comorbid depressive and insomnia symptoms on the quality of life among community-dwelling older adults in an urban area of central Greece. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 older adults (aged ≥ 60) collected from five Open Care Centers for Elderly People of the Municipality of Larissa, Greece. Data were obtained through a questionnaire that included demographic, socioeconomic, and health-related characteristics; the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQoL)-Bref questionnaire; the Geriatric Depression Scale; and the Athens Insomnia Scale. The prevalences of depression, insomnia, and comorbid depression and insomnia were 28% (95% confidence interval (95% CI): 21.8–34.2%), 40.5% (95% CI: 33.7–47.3%), and 19% (95% CI: 13.5–24.5%), respectively. The mean WHOQoL-Bref score for all domains was approximately 14.50, with the highest mean value observed for psychological health (14.79 ± 2.60), followed by the physical health (14.49 ± 2.66), social relationships (14.39 ± 2.03), and environmental domains (14.32 ± 1.90). All WHOQoL-Bref domains were negatively correlated with depression and insomnia. Older adults with depressive symptoms, insomnia symptoms, and comorbid depressive and insomnia symptoms had lower scores in all quality of life dimensions compared with those without. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Health Economics, Social Policy and Health Management)
20 pages, 5019 KiB  
Article
Are Natural or Anthropogenic Factors Influencing Potentially Toxic Elements’ Enrichment in Soils in Proglacial Zones? An Example from Kaffiøyra (Oscar II Land, Spitsbergen)
by Joanna Beata Kowalska, Paweł Nicia, Michał Gąsiorek, Paweł Zadrożny, Michał Hubert Węgrzyn and Jarosław Waroszewski
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13703; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013703 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1508
Abstract
Arctic soils may hold potentially toxic elements (PTE); PTE can provide evidence of past or recent pollution. In this study, five soil profiles located on Oscar II Land (Kaffiøyra) were studied to (i) evaluate the ecological status of Kaffiøyra’s soils based on the [...] Read more.
Arctic soils may hold potentially toxic elements (PTE); PTE can provide evidence of past or recent pollution. In this study, five soil profiles located on Oscar II Land (Kaffiøyra) were studied to (i) evaluate the ecological status of Kaffiøyra’s soils based on the determination of the possible accumulation of PTE using pollution indices; and (ii) determine the possible origin of PTE enrichment (local factors vs. long-range sources) depending on the distance from the sea. The soils were tested with standard soil science methods. The contamination of five soils was assessed by a wide spectrum of pollution soil indices: Enrichment Factor (EF), Geoaccumulation Index (Igeo), Potential Ecological Risk (RI), Pollution Load Index (PLI), and Probability of Toxicity (MERMQ). EF values calculated based on Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb and Zn content indicated an anthropogenic origin of the pollution. Values of Igeo showed the highest pollution with Cd, while CSI and MERMQ values indicated the highest Cd and Pb levels, but only in the soils located closest to the coast. RI values suggested that soils were under a strong or very strong potential ecological risk, whereas PLI confirmed the high probability of soil quality reduction. Enrichment with PTE has been conditioned by both local (natural) and long-distance (anthropogenic) factors. Among the local factors, parent material was highly relevant. The effect of long-distance anthropogenic factors, especially from European, large industrial centres, was manifested by the high content of PTE in soils located closest to the coastlines, delivered by a wet deposition and sea aerosols. The monitoring and assessment of arctic soil quality are useful practices for the verification of the sources of PTE pollution and the development of methods that can contribute to the protection and maintenance of these vulnerable ecosystems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil Pollution Control and Remediation)
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23 pages, 7293 KiB  
Article
Improving Water Quality Index Prediction Using Regression Learning Models
by Jesmeen Mohd Zebaral Hoque, Nor Azlina Ab. Aziz, Salem Alelyani, Mohamed Mohana and Maruf Hosain
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13702; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013702 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5676
Abstract
Rivers are the main sources of freshwater supply for the world population. However, many economic activities contribute to river water pollution. River water quality can be monitored using various parameters, such as the pH level, dissolved oxygen, total suspended solids, and the chemical [...] Read more.
Rivers are the main sources of freshwater supply for the world population. However, many economic activities contribute to river water pollution. River water quality can be monitored using various parameters, such as the pH level, dissolved oxygen, total suspended solids, and the chemical properties. Analyzing the trend and pattern of these parameters enables the prediction of the water quality so that proactive measures can be made by relevant authorities to prevent water pollution and predict the effectiveness of water restoration measures. Machine learning regression algorithms can be applied for this purpose. Here, eight machine learning regression techniques, including decision tree regression, linear regression, ridge, Lasso, support vector regression, random forest regression, extra tree regression, and the artificial neural network, are applied for the purpose of water quality index prediction. Historical data from Indian rivers are adopted for this study. The data refer to six water parameters. Twelve other features are then derived from the original six parameters. The performances of the models using different algorithms and sets of features are compared. The derived water quality rating scale features are identified to contribute toward the development of better regression models, while the linear regression and ridge offer the best performance. The best mean square error achieved is 0 and the correlation coefficient is 1. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Data Science for Environment and Health Applications)
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12 pages, 550 KiB  
Article
The Furr-Recovery Method: Interacting with Furry Co-Workers during Work Time Is a Micro-Break That Recovers Workers’ Regulatory Resources and Contributes to Their Performance
by Ana Junça-Silva
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13701; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013701 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2236
Abstract
Drawing on the conservation of resources theory and the recovery step model our research expands on a cognitive (regulatory resources) mechanism that links human–animal interactions and employee performance. This study aimed to explore whether daily human–animal interactions during worktime would be conceived as [...] Read more.
Drawing on the conservation of resources theory and the recovery step model our research expands on a cognitive (regulatory resources) mechanism that links human–animal interactions and employee performance. This study aimed to explore whether daily human–animal interactions during worktime would be conceived as a daily-recovery process that restores the individual’s daily regulatory resources and, as a result, improves daily adaptive and task performance. To test this, a daily diary study during 10 working days, with 105 teleworkers was performed (N = 105 × 10 = 1050). Multilevel results demonstrated that daily interactions between human and their pets served to recover their daily regulatory resources that, in turn, improved daily task-and-adaptive performance. This research not only expands our theoretical understanding of regulatory resources as a cognitive mechanism that links human-animal interactions to employee effectiveness but also offers practical implications by highlighting the recovery role of interacting with pets during the working day, as a way to restore resources needed to be more effective at work. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rethinking Occupational Fatigue and Recovery: Towards Sustainable Healthy Work)
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13 pages, 857 KiB  
Article
Effect of 8-Week β-Alanine Supplementation on CRP, IL-6, Body Composition, and Bio-Motor Abilities in Elite Male Basketball Players
by Ioan Turcu, Bogdan Oancea, Mihaela Chicomban, Gabriel Simion, Sorin Simon, Codruța Ioana Negriu Tiuca, Mircea Nicolae Ordean, Alexandru Gabriel Petrovici, Nicoleta Adina Nicolescu Șeușan, Petronela Lăcrămioara Hăisan, Ioan Teodor Hășmășan, Alexandru Ioan Hulpuș, Iulian Stoian, Cătălin Vasile Ciocan and Ioana Maria Curițianu
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13700; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013700 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2381
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of 8-week β-alanine supplementation on C-Reactive Protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), body composition, and bio-motor abilities in elite male basketball players. Twenty male basketball players (age: 23 + 0.6 years; body mass: 78.3 + [...] Read more.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of 8-week β-alanine supplementation on C-Reactive Protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), body composition, and bio-motor abilities in elite male basketball players. Twenty male basketball players (age: 23 + 0.6 years; body mass: 78.3 + 4.8 kg; height:185.3 + 5.4 cm, %BF, 15.2 ± 4.8) volunteered to participate in this study. They were divided into a β-alanine group (BG, N = 10) and a placebo group (PG, N = 10). All players were preparing for university competitions and had played for over five years. Players used 6.4 g/d of β-alanine in BG and maltodextrin in PG. The participants were involved in regular basketball training three months before the study. CRP, IL-6, body composition parameters, and bio-motor abilities were measured before starting the exercises and after completing the eight-week training period. The research findings showed a significant decrease in CRP and IL-6 and an increase in anaerobic peak power between the pre-test and post-test, as well as between BG and PG groups (p < 0.05). Although the other measured factors were a relative improvement compared to the pre-test and also compared to PG, these changes were not statistically significant (p < 0.05). Eight weeks of β-alanine supplementation ameliorated increases in IL-6 and CRP associated with in-season physical stressors in collegiate basketball players. These changes in pro-inflammatory cytokines suggest that β-alanine supplementation may be a useful nutritional strategy for immune regulation and can also improve anaerobic performance compared to PG. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional and Non-nutritional Supplements in Sports: The Public Health Impact)
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14 pages, 1506 KiB  
Article
Physical Changes of Preschool Children during COVID-19 School Closures in Fujian, China
by Guobo Li, Le Yang, Xingyan Xu, Mingjun Chen, Yingying Cai, Yeying Wen, Xiaoxu Xie, Xinyue Lu, Suping Luo, Shaowei Lin, Huangyuan Li and Siying Wu
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13699; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013699 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1905
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic may constitute an “obesogenic lifestyle” that results in exacerbating childhood obesity. However, studies investigating regional sociodemographic factors including different age groups or sexes in children with obesity are lacking. We aimed to clarify the high obesity prevalence populations of preschool [...] Read more.
The COVID-19 pandemic may constitute an “obesogenic lifestyle” that results in exacerbating childhood obesity. However, studies investigating regional sociodemographic factors including different age groups or sexes in children with obesity are lacking. We aimed to clarify the high obesity prevalence populations of preschool children to provide a regional basis for children’s health policy during the COVID-19 school closures. From May to September 2019, a total of 29,518 preschool children were included in a large sample, multicenter cross-sectional study to explore physical status in Fujian Province by stratified cluster random sampling. In October 2019 and October 2020, we also conducted a cross-sectional study exploring physical development including changes in height, weight, and BMI of 1688 preschool children in Fuzhou before and after the COVID-19 school closures. Student’ s t-test, Mann–Whitney U test, or chi-square test was used to assess differences in physical development and overweight and obesity rates among preschool children before and after school closures. For regional factors, the weight of urban preschool children of all ages became higher after the outbreak (p (age 3–4) = 0.009; p (age 4–5) < 0.001; p (age 5–6) = 0.002). For sex factors, overweight and obesity in boys had a greater prevalence than in girls before and after the outbreak. In four age groups, overweight and obesity rates in the 5-year-old group (15.5% and 9.9%) were higher than before (11.4% and 6.0%). The weight and BMI of 4- to 5-year-old children also increased faster than before (p < 0.001). The COVID-19 pandemic has promoted the epidemic of childhood obesity. Living in urban/coastal (economically developed) areas, boys, and aged 4–6 years old may be a susceptible population to obesity development after the outbreak. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Sports as Determinants of Health at All Ages from a Biological, Psychosocial, and Environmental Perspective)
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13 pages, 341 KiB  
Article
Navigating Pregnancy and the Healthcare System during COVID-19: A Qualitative Study with Perinatal Women of Color
by Tuyet-Mai H. Hoang, Wan-Jung Hsieh, B. Andi Lee, Kaylee Marie Lukacena and Karen M. Tabb
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13698; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013698 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2556
Abstract
Objective: To address health disparities in the perinatal period (i.e., during pregnancy and through one year after birth) by exploring the intersectional experiences of perinatal Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color (BIPOC) women during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this study, participants were [...] Read more.
Objective: To address health disparities in the perinatal period (i.e., during pregnancy and through one year after birth) by exploring the intersectional experiences of perinatal Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color (BIPOC) women during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this study, participants were asked if and how COVID-19 had impacted their experiences of receiving healthcare, whether they had faced any challenges during this time, how they had navigated these challenges, and what recommendations they had for improving perinatal healthcare. Methods: Between November 2021 and March 2022 our team conducted eight virtual focus groups comprising perinatal BIPOC women. A semi-structured interview protocol was used, and interviews were voice recorded and transcribed verbatim. The data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Three major themes common in BIPOC perinatal healthcare experiences during COVID-19 were generated through engaging in reflexive thematic analysis: (1) an overwhelming lack of support from providers, (2) experiences of blame and shame, and (3) difficulties navigating institutional policies that were unclear or ever-changing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recommendations from participants included greater empathic communication from providers in the face of uncertainty during COVID-19, greater access to information and guidance for caring for themselves and their babies, and an overall request for greater compassion while navigating an exciting and busy time. Relevance: These findings have implications for trauma-informed and inclusive perinatal care that can reduce the impacts of systemic inequalities for perinatal BIPOC women. This study offers a discussion of implications for future training for maternal health providers and implications for community-based programs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prenatal Wellbeing and Maternal and Child Health Outcomes)
14 pages, 569 KiB  
Article
Perceived Crisis Management and Post-Traumatic Growth among Chinese Preschool Teachers during COVID-19: Risk Perception as a Moderator
by Xiumin Hong, Youpeng Liu and Mingzhu Zhang
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13697; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013697 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1320
Abstract
This study explored post-traumatic growth among preschool teachers during COVID-19 and investigated associations among post-traumatic growth, perceived crisis management, and risk perception. The participants were 2921 Chinese preschool teachers (96.5% women). Teachers’ reports of post-traumatic growth, perceived crisis management, and risk perception were [...] Read more.
This study explored post-traumatic growth among preschool teachers during COVID-19 and investigated associations among post-traumatic growth, perceived crisis management, and risk perception. The participants were 2921 Chinese preschool teachers (96.5% women). Teachers’ reports of post-traumatic growth, perceived crisis management, and risk perception were analyzed by multivariate techniques. The results revealed that preschool teachers’ post-traumatic growth was at an intermediate level, and there was no significant difference in post-traumatic growth by risk level area. Post-traumatic growth was significantly related to risk perception and perceived crisis management, and risk perception appeared to moderate the relationship between perceived crisis management and post-traumatic growth. Our findings highlight the importance of considering the roles of perceived crisis management and risk perception in preschool teachers’ post-traumatic growth. Related suggestions for preschool teachers’ mental health are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Traumas)
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11 pages, 362 KiB  
Article
Effects of Aging and Fitness on Hopping Biomechanics
by Horacio Sanchez-Trigo, Jochen Zange, Wolfram Sies, Jonas Böcker, Borja Sañudo and Jörn Rittweger
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13696; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013696 - 21 Oct 2022
Viewed by 1461
Abstract
Physical exercise promotes healthy aging and is associated with greater functionality and quality of life. Muscle strength and power are established factors in the ability to perform daily tasks and live independently. Stiffness, for mechanical reasons, is another important constituent of running performance [...] Read more.
Physical exercise promotes healthy aging and is associated with greater functionality and quality of life. Muscle strength and power are established factors in the ability to perform daily tasks and live independently. Stiffness, for mechanical reasons, is another important constituent of running performance and locomotion. This study aims to analyze the impact of age and training status on one-legged hopping biomechanics and to evaluate whether age-related power decline can be reduced with regular physical exercise. Forty-three male subjects were recruited according to their suitability for one of four groups (young athletes, senior athletes, young controls and senior controls) according to their age (young between 21 and 35, vs. older between 59 and 75) and training status (competing athletes vs. non-physically active). The impact of age and training status on one-legged hopping biomechanics were evaluated using the two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) method. Significant differences among groups were found for hopping height (p < 0.05), ground contact time (p < 0.05), peak ground reaction force (p < 0.05) and peak power (p < 0.01). No differences among groups were found in ground-phase vertical displacement and vertical stiffness (p > 0.05). Young athletes and older non-physically active people achieved the best and worst performance, respectively. Interestingly, there were not any differences found between young non-physically active people and senior athletes, suggesting that chronic training can contribute to partly offset effects that are normally associated with aging. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effect of Physical Activity on Human Fitness)
22 pages, 4869 KiB  
Article
The Perception of Health Professionals in Bangladesh toward the Digitalization of the Health Sector
by Md Shakhawat Hossain, M. M. Mahbubul Syeed, Kaniz Fatema and Mohammad Faisal Uddin
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13695; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013695 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4886
Abstract
Bangladesh is undertaking a major transformation towards digitalization in every sector, and healthcare is no exception. Digitalization of the health sector is expected to improve healthcare services while reducing human effort and ensuring the satisfaction of patients and health professionals. However, for practical [...] Read more.
Bangladesh is undertaking a major transformation towards digitalization in every sector, and healthcare is no exception. Digitalization of the health sector is expected to improve healthcare services while reducing human effort and ensuring the satisfaction of patients and health professionals. However, for practical and successful digitalization, it is necessary to understand the perceptions of health professionals. Therefore, we conducted a cross-sectional survey in Bangladesh to investigate health professionals’ perceptions in relation to various socio–demographic variables such as age, gender, location, profession and institution. We also evaluated their competencies, as digital health-related competencies are required for digitalization. Additionally, we identified major digitalization challenges. Quantitative survey data were analyzed with Python Pandas, and qualitative data were classified using Valence-Aware Dictionary and Sentiment Reasoner (VADER). This study found significant relationships between age χ2(12,N=701)=82.02,p<0.001; location χ2(4,N=701)=18.78,p<0.001; and profession χ2(16,N=701)=71.02,p<0.001; with technical competency. These variables also have similar influences on psychological competency. According to VADER, 88.1% (583/701) of respondents have a positive outlook toward digitalization. The internal consistency of the survey was confirmed by Cronbach’s alpha score (0.746). This study assisted in developing a better understanding of how professionals perceive digitalization, categorizes professionals based on competency, and prioritizes the major digitalization challenges. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evidence-Based Health Policy-Making and Health Outcomes Research)
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25 pages, 2982 KiB  
Article
The Spatial Effect of Air Pollution Governance on Labor Productivity: Evidence from 262 Chinese Cities
by Fei Ren, Yuke Zhu and Dong Le
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13694; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013694 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1468
Abstract
According to epidemiological studies, air pollution can increase the rate of medical visits and morbidity. Empirical studies have also shown that air pollutants are toxic to animals. Using data from 262 Chinese cities for the period 2005 to 2018, this study systematically investigated [...] Read more.
According to epidemiological studies, air pollution can increase the rate of medical visits and morbidity. Empirical studies have also shown that air pollutants are toxic to animals. Using data from 262 Chinese cities for the period 2005 to 2018, this study systematically investigated the spatial spillover effect and transmission mechanism of air pollution governance on urban labor productivity. In this study, we also explored the changing trend of labor productivity in China from a dynamic perspective. Additionally, we selected the air flow coefficient and environmental regulations as two instrumental variables of air pollution governance to effectively alleviate endogenous problems existing in the model. The results show that air pollution governance plays a significant role in promoting the improvement of labor productivity. The effect of air pollution governance on labor productivity in eastern cities is better than that in central and western cities, and its effect in developed cities is better than that in undeveloped cities. With the increased intensity of air pollution governance, its effect on labor productivity is also strengthened. Urban innovation capacity and residents’ health are important channels for air pollution governance in the promotion of labor productivity. Finally, this study proposes policy recommendations, such as implementing a joint prevention and governance mechanism, as well as improving air pollution prevention and government regulations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Frontiers in Air Pollution and Human Health)
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23 pages, 3643 KiB  
Article
Comparing Resampling Algorithms and Classifiers for Modeling Traffic Risk Prediction
by Bo Wang, Chi Zhang, Yiik Diew Wong, Lei Hou, Min Zhang and Yujie Xiang
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13693; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013693 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1525
Abstract
Road infrastructure has significant effects on road traffic safety and needs further examination. In terms of traffic crash prediction, recent studies have started to develop deep learning classification algorithms. However, given the uncertainty of traffic crashes, predicting the traffic risk potential of different [...] Read more.
Road infrastructure has significant effects on road traffic safety and needs further examination. In terms of traffic crash prediction, recent studies have started to develop deep learning classification algorithms. However, given the uncertainty of traffic crashes, predicting the traffic risk potential of different road sections remains a challenge. To bridge this knowledge gap, this study investigated a real-world expressway and collected its traffic crash data between 2013 and 2020. Then, according to the time-spatial density ratio (Pts), road sections were assigned into three classes corresponding to low, medium, and high risk levels of traffic. Next, different classifiers were compared that were trained using the transformed and resampled feature data to construct a traffic crash risk prediction model. Last, but not least, partial dependence plots (PDPs) were employed to interpret the results and analyze the importance of individual features describing the geometry, pavement, structure, and weather conditions. The results showed that a variety of data balancing algorithms improved the performance of the classifiers, the ensemble classifier superseded the others in terms of the performance metrics, and the combined SMOTEENN and random forest algorithms improved the classification accuracy the most. In the future, the proposed traffic crash risk prediction method will be tested in more road maintenance and design safety assessment scenarios. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Road Traffic Safety Risk Analysis)
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17 pages, 2021 KiB  
Article
Feelings of Polish and Palestinian Students after Receiving Vaccinations against COVID-19
by Krzysztof Zdziarski, Katarzyna Karakiewicz-Krawczyk, Mariam S. Awad, Narmeen Qumsieh, Anna Landowska and Beata Karakiewicz
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13692; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013692 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1585
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has limited human freedom in many areas. Developing a COVID-19 vaccine has been a key task to contain the spread of the virus. In many countries, there is increasing concern about anti-vaccines due to complications after receiving the vaccine. The [...] Read more.
The COVID-19 pandemic has limited human freedom in many areas. Developing a COVID-19 vaccine has been a key task to contain the spread of the virus. In many countries, there is increasing concern about anti-vaccines due to complications after receiving the vaccine. The research problem concerns the opinions of Polish and Palestinian students after receiving vaccinations against COVID-19. This study involved 657 respondents (332 from Poland and 325 from Palestine) who completed the original questionnaire online. The respondents present two different cultures, embedded in different existential conditions, also in terms of health care, and especially the availability of vaccines. The obtained data indicate that almost 50% of research participants from both countries believe that vaccines are an effective antidote to the pandemic situation. Respondents in both populations believed that it was their personal choice to undergo vaccinations. The social motivation for vaccination in both groups was the desire to participate in public life, and the possibility of free travel for Poles, and the fear of infecting other people for Palestinians. The most common side effect reported after vaccination was pain at the site of the infection. Medical assistance was more often sought by respondents from Palestine. From an existential, psychosocial and health perspective, vaccines contributed to strengthening the vital forces in a large part of the population, allowed rebuilding social interactions and gave a sense of security in the daily functioning of a person. Full article
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20 pages, 1357 KiB  
Article
Characteristics of Artificial Intelligence Clinical Trials in the Field of Healthcare: A Cross-Sectional Study on ClinicalTrials.gov
by Anran Wang, Xiaolei Xiu, Shengyu Liu, Qing Qian and Sizhu Wu
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13691; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013691 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2615
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) has driven innovative transformation in healthcare service patterns, despite a lack of understanding of its performance in clinical practice. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of AI-related trials in healthcare based on ClinicalTrials.gov, intending to investigate the trial characteristics and AI’s [...] Read more.
Artificial intelligence (AI) has driven innovative transformation in healthcare service patterns, despite a lack of understanding of its performance in clinical practice. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of AI-related trials in healthcare based on ClinicalTrials.gov, intending to investigate the trial characteristics and AI’s development status. Additionally, the Neo4j graph database and visualization technology were employed to construct an AI technology application graph, achieving a visual representation and analysis of research hotspots in healthcare AI. A total of 1725 eligible trials that were registered in ClinicalTrials.gov up to 31 March 2022 were included in this study. The number of trial registrations has dramatically grown each year since 2016. However, the AI-related trials had some design drawbacks and problems with poor-quality result reporting. The proportion of trials with prospective and randomized designs was insufficient, and most studies did not report results upon completion. Currently, most healthcare AI application studies are based on data-driven learning algorithms, covering various disease areas and healthcare scenarios. As few studies have publicly reported results on ClinicalTrials.gov, there is not enough evidence to support an assessment of AI’s actual performance. The widespread implementation of AI technology in healthcare still faces many challenges and requires more high-quality prospective clinical validation. Full article
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13 pages, 818 KiB  
Article
Physical Fitness, Screen Time and Sleep Habits According to Obesity Levels in Schoolchildren: Findings from the Health Survey of the Extreme South of Chile
by Fernanda Carrasco-Marín, Fanny Petermann-Rocha, Miquel Martorell, Yenny Concha-Cisternas, Solange Parra-Soto, Rafael Zapata-Lamana, Javier Albornoz-Guerrero, Guillermo García-Pérez-de-Sevilla, Maria Antonia Parra-Rizo and Igor Cigarroa
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13690; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013690 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2639
Abstract
Obesity is a worry because it is associated with a greater burden of disease, and it has been shown to be related to the health habits and physical condition of children and adolescents. Objective: To associate physical fitness, screen time, and sleep habits [...] Read more.
Obesity is a worry because it is associated with a greater burden of disease, and it has been shown to be related to the health habits and physical condition of children and adolescents. Objective: To associate physical fitness, screen time, and sleep habits with the different categories of obesity in schoolchildren from the extreme south of Chile. Methods: 583 schoolchildren were included in this cross-sectional analysis. The screen time and sleep habits were measured with the Sleep Self-Report questionnaire, while the physical fitness was assessed with the Alpha Fitness test battery. The Body Mass Index/age (BMI/age) and the Waist-to-Height ratio (WtHr) were used to define adiposity using the following categories: healthy weight/low-risk waist-to-height ratio (H/LR), healthy weight/high-risk waist-to-height ratio (H/HR), overweight/low-risk waist to height ratio (O/LR), and overweight/high-risk waist to height ratio (O/HR). Results: A considerable number of schoolchildren (23.2%) presented sleep problems, while the mean screen time was 9.3 (95% CI: 8.4; 10.1) hours/day. Schoolchildren classified as H/HR showed better physical fitness than the O/HR group but worse physical fitness than the H/LR group. Conclusions: Significant differences were evidenced in the physical fitness between the adiposity categories, which could open future lines of research concerning the characterization of the healthy weight-obese adiposity categories in children. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Exercise Physiology and Nutrition to Physical Activity and Health: From Molecular to Clinical Aspects)
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14 pages, 788 KiB  
Review
Predictors of Adherence to Cancer-Related mHealth Apps in Cancer Patients Undergoing Oncological or Follow-Up Treatment—A Scoping Review
by Christoph Armbruster, Marie Knaub, Erik Farin-Glattacker and Rieka von der Warth
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13689; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013689 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2147
Abstract
mHealth interventions in cancer care are being increasingly applied in various settings. Nevertheless, there is a phenomenon wherein individuals show different usage patterns, which could affect the effectiveness of the intervention. In general, it is important to know the predictors of app adherence [...] Read more.
mHealth interventions in cancer care are being increasingly applied in various settings. Nevertheless, there is a phenomenon wherein individuals show different usage patterns, which could affect the effectiveness of the intervention. In general, it is important to know the predictors of app adherence and usage patterns to improve the design and content (i.e., tailoring). The aim of this scoping review was to provide an overview of predictors of adherence to cancer-related mHealth apps in cancer patients. A systematic literature search was conducted in March 2021 in the electronic databases PubMed, CINAHL, and PsychINFO without limitation in year, focusing on cancer patients undergoing oncological or follow-up treatment using mHealth apps. The initial database search yielded a total of N = 8035 records. After title, abstract, and full-text screening, 10 articles met inclusion criteria. Studies were published between 2013 and 2020. Studies focused on children and adolescents (2/10) as well as adults (8/10). The predictors identified could be categorized into sociodemographic variables, cancer-related factors and others. This study provides an initial insight into relevant predictors of app adherence in cancer patients. However, no clear predictor of increased app adherence was found. Further research of usage patterns is therefore needed so that mHealth interventions can be tailored during development. Full article
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44 pages, 1138 KiB  
Review
Aspects of Wellbeing for Indigenous Youth in CANZUS Countries: A Systematic Review
by Kate Anderson, Elaina Elder-Robinson, Alana Gall, Khwanruethai Ngampromwongse, Michele Connolly, Angeline Letendre, Esther Willing, Zaine Akuhata-Huntington, Kirsten Howard, Michelle Dickson and Gail Garvey
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13688; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013688 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3206
Abstract
Indigenous children and young people (hereafter youth) across CANZUS nations embody a rich diversity of cultures and traditions. Despite the immense challenges facing these youth, many harness cultural and personal strengths to protect and promote their wellbeing. To support this for all youth, [...] Read more.
Indigenous children and young people (hereafter youth) across CANZUS nations embody a rich diversity of cultures and traditions. Despite the immense challenges facing these youth, many harness cultural and personal strengths to protect and promote their wellbeing. To support this for all youth, it is critical to understand what contributes to their wellbeing. This review aims to identify components contributing to wellbeing for Indigenous youth in CANZUS nations. Five databases were searched from inception to August 2022. Papers were eligible if they: focused on Indigenous youth in CANZUS nations; included views of youth or proxies; and focused on at least one aspect of wellbeing. We identified 105 articles for inclusion (Canada n = 42, Australia n = 27, Aotearoa New Zealand n = 8, USA n = 28) and our analysis revealed a range of thematic areas within each nation that impact wellbeing for Indigenous youth. Findings highlight the unique challenges facing Indigenous youth, as well as their immense capacity to harness cultural and personal strengths to navigate into an uncertain future. The commonalities of Indigenous youth wellbeing across these nations provide valuable insights into how information and approaches can be shared across borders to the benefit of all Indigenous youth and future generations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health and Wellness for Indigenous Peoples)
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23 pages, 1547 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Health Effects of Real-World Dual Use of Electronic and Conventional Cigarettes versus the Health Effects of Exclusive Smoking of Conventional Cigarettes: A Systematic Review
by Charlotta Pisinger and Sofie K. Bergman Rasmussen
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13687; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013687 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3245
Abstract
Background: A high prevalence of dual use of e-cigarettes and conventional cigarettes has been reported across the world. Methods: A systematic search was carried out. We included original articles on any topic relevant to health, excluding mental health, in all languages. The PRISMA [...] Read more.
Background: A high prevalence of dual use of e-cigarettes and conventional cigarettes has been reported across the world. Methods: A systematic search was carried out. We included original articles on any topic relevant to health, excluding mental health, in all languages. The PRISMA guidelines were followed. Both reviewers independently screened and read all publications. We compared dual use with exclusive smoking of conventional cigarettes (ESCC). Results: Fifty-two publications (49 studies) were included. Thirteen papers/10 studies were prospective. There was great heterogeneity across studies. Many methodological weaknesses, such as inaccurate exposure measurement, lack of adjustment for former tobacco consumption, and lack of significance testing were identified. Most prospective studies found dual use to be at least as harmful as ESCC. The longest follow-up was six years. Most of the best available cross-sectional studies found dual use associated with the same and, in several studies, significantly higher risk of self-reported symptoms/disease than in ESCC. The intensity of cigarette smoking seems associated with worse health. Conclusion: Existing studies indicate that dual use is at least as, or probably even more, harmful than ESCC. Due to the predominance of cross-sectional studies and the methodological weaknesses we judged the overall certainty of the evidence as “low certainty”. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Tobacco Exposure and Health Effects)
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