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Volume 19
Issue 6
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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health, Volume 19, Issue 6 (March-2 2022) – 600 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): More electric air vehicles such as drones could bring important environmental and societal benefits, such as medical deliveries to remote areas or reduction of carbon footprint in parcel delivery. A scenario with drones inundating our skies is therefore more likely than ever.  However, community noise impact is one of the main barriers putting the wider adoption of drones at risk. This paper presents the results of a subjective experiment to investigate noise perception of a comprehensive set of drone sounds encompassing different flying operations, size, weight, and distance from the received. The findings of this paper can facilitate a better understanding of the key psychoacoustic factors to account for when planning drone operations, to mitigate community noise impact. View this paper
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19 pages, 7369 KiB  
Article
Exposure and Risk Assessment of Second- and Third-Hand Tobacco Smoke Using Urinary Cotinine Levels in South Korea
by Jiyeon Yang, Shervin Hashemi, Wonseok Han, Yoojin Song and Youngwook Lim
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3746; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063746 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3788
Abstract
Exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) is the reason for approximately 1% of global mortality. ETS exposure can happen either as inhalation of direct cigarette smoke (second-hand smoke) or its associated residue particles (third-hand smoke), especially when living with a smoker in the [...] Read more.
Exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) is the reason for approximately 1% of global mortality. ETS exposure can happen either as inhalation of direct cigarette smoke (second-hand smoke) or its associated residue particles (third-hand smoke), especially when living with a smoker in the same family. This study investigated the association between the urinary cotinine levels, as biomarkers of exposure to tobacco smoke, of smokers and those exposed to second-hand and third-hand smoke while living in the same family, through a Korean nationwide survey. Direct assessment of ETS exposure and its lifetime effect on human health is practically difficult. Therefore, this study evaluated the internal estimated daily intake (I-EDI) of nicotine and equivalent smoked cigarette per day (CPD). The carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic inhalation risks of ETS exposure were assessed by considering the calculated equivalent CPD and composition of cigarette smoke of high-selling cigarette brands in South Korea. The results show that there is a statistically significant positive correlation between the cotinine levels of smokers and those of the non-smokers living in the same family. The risk assessment results yielded that hazard index (HI) and total excess lifetime cancer risk (ECR) for both second-hand and third-hand smoke exposure can exceed 1 and 1 × 10−6, respectively, especially in women and children. In the composition of the cigarette smoke, 1,3-butadiene and acrolein substances had the highest contribution to HI and ECR. Consequently, the provision of appropriate plans for smoking cessation as a strategy for the prevention of ETS exposure to women and children is deemed necessary. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)
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10 pages, 303 KiB  
Article
The Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Pediatric Physician Wellness: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Joshua Belfer, Lance Feld, Sophia Jan, Joanna Fishbein, John Q. Young and Stephen Barone
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3745; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063745 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2179
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has provided challenges to all healthcare workers. While the brunt of treating COVID-19 patients fell upon adult providers, pediatricians also experienced significant stressors and disruptions. Academic pediatricians and trainees (fellows and residents) were redeployed to manage adult patients in hospitalist [...] Read more.
The COVID-19 pandemic has provided challenges to all healthcare workers. While the brunt of treating COVID-19 patients fell upon adult providers, pediatricians also experienced significant stressors and disruptions. Academic pediatricians and trainees (fellows and residents) were redeployed to manage adult patients in hospitalist and intensive care settings and/or had major changes to their clinical schedules. In this study, we aimed to describe levels of self-reported depression, anxiety, and burnout in pediatric physicians following the initial wave of the pandemic at the largest integrated health system in New York State. A cross-sectional study was conducted among pediatric physicians who cared for patients during the COVID-19 pandemic within the Northwell Health System as part of the Northwell Wellbeing Registry, a longitudinal registry assessing the psychological impact of COVID-19 on healthcare providers. A total of 99 pediatric physician respondents were included in this study; 72% of whom were attendings, 28% of whom were trainees. Compared to attendings, trainees reported significantly higher proportions of burnout–emotional exhaustion (p = 0.0007) and burnout–depersonalization (p = 0.0011) on the Abbreviated Maslach Burnout Inventory. There was not a similar trend in probable depression or probable anxiety using the Patient Health Questionnaire. In a multivariable logistic regression model, being a trainee was significantly associated with increased odds of burnout–emotional exhaustion (OR 5.94, 95% Confidence Interval: 1.85–19.02). These findings suggest that fellows and residents were a vulnerable population during the COVID-19 pandemic. Training programs should pay special attention to their trainees during times of crisis, and future studies can help to identify protective factors to reduce the risk of burnout during these times. Full article
19 pages, 10150 KiB  
Article
Utilization Intention of Community Pharmacy Service under the Dual Threats of Air Pollution and COVID-19 Epidemic: Moderating Effects of Knowledge and Attitude toward COVID-19
by Yueen-Mei Deng, Hong-Wei Wu and Hung-En Liao
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3744; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063744 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1892
Abstract
The utilization of pharmacy services in response to the threat of COVID-19 infection remains unclear in areas suffering from air pollution, and little is known regarding the effects of knowledge and attitude (KA) toward COVID-19 on this preventive behavior. This study aimed to [...] Read more.
The utilization of pharmacy services in response to the threat of COVID-19 infection remains unclear in areas suffering from air pollution, and little is known regarding the effects of knowledge and attitude (KA) toward COVID-19 on this preventive behavior. This study aimed to explore how the residents perceived and reacted to the new threats of the epidemic and how KA may affect the correlation. Based on the health belief model (HBM), this research took the pharmacy service utilization (PSU) as an example to explain the preventive behavior. The samples were 375 respondents recruited from five districts near the industrial parks. T-test, ANOVA, and regression analyses of SPSS 22.0 were used to analyze the data. Test results show that self-efficacy was the strongest predictor, followed by the net perceived benefit. KA moderated the association of perceived threat and PSU intention. The levels of air pollution of a district may not be a good predictor for the preventive behavior against COVID-19. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Air Pollution during the COVID-19 Pandemic)
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9 pages, 341 KiB  
Article
Physical Function in Amateur Athletes with Lumbar Disc Herniation and Chronic Low Back Pain: A Case-Control Study
by Diego Miñambres-Martín, Patricia Martín-Casas, Ibai López-de-Uralde-Villanueva, César Fernández-de-las-Peñas, Juan Antonio Valera-Calero and Gustavo Plaza-Manzano
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3743; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063743 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2849
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze if chronic low back pain (LBP) and lumbar disc herniation induce biomechanics, flexibility, body balance, physical activity, and muscular function alterations compared to a similar asymptomatic cohort. Fifty male volunteers (n = 25 with chronic LBP and [...] Read more.
This study aimed to analyze if chronic low back pain (LBP) and lumbar disc herniation induce biomechanics, flexibility, body balance, physical activity, and muscular function alterations compared to a similar asymptomatic cohort. Fifty male volunteers (n = 25 with chronic LBP and lumbar disc herniation and n = 25 pain-free subjects) were enrolled. Range of motion (internal and external hip rotation, ankle dorsiflexion, and active straight leg raise, ASLR), trunk flexibility (finger–floor distance), body balance (Y-balance test) and muscle function (Biering–Sorensen test, prone and lateral bridges) outcomes were assessed. Comparative analyses between sides and group were conducted. Results: Patients showed greater weight and BMI compared with controls (p < 0.05). None of the outcomes bilaterally assessed showed side-to-side differences for pain-free participants (all, p > 0.05) or LBP patients (all, p > 0.05). Regarding the differences between groups, LBP patients showed limited internal hip rotation (p < 0.001), finger–floor distance (p < 0.001), body balance (p < 0.001), and muscle endurance (planks p < 0.001; Biering–Sorensen test p < 0.05). External hip rotation, ASLR, and ankle dorsiflexion range of movement were comparable in both groups (p > 0.05). The sample of pain-free amateur athletes showed greater range of movement for internal hip rotation, lower finger–floor distance, better body balance, and muscle function. However, the external hip rotation, ankle dorsiflexion, and ASLR tests showed no difference between cases and controls. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prevalence, Evaluation and Management of Chronic Spinal Pain and Musculoskeletal Disorders)
14 pages, 6421 KiB  
Article
Global Trends and Research Hotspots in Long COVID: A Bibliometric Analysis
by Hongxia Jin, Lu Lu and Haojun Fan
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3742; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063742 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3163
Abstract
Long COVID is a condition distinguished by long-term sequelae that occur or persist after the convalescence period of COVID-19. During the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more people who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 experienced long COVID, which attracted the attention of researchers. This study [...] Read more.
Long COVID is a condition distinguished by long-term sequelae that occur or persist after the convalescence period of COVID-19. During the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more people who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 experienced long COVID, which attracted the attention of researchers. This study aims to assess the pattern of long COVID research literature, analyze the research topics, and provide insights on long COVID. In this study, we extracted 784 publications from Scopus in the field of long COVID. According to bibliometric analysis, it is found that: developed countries in Europe and America were in leading positions in terms of paper productivity and citations. The International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health and the Journal of Clinical Medicine were leading journals in the perspective of publications count, and Nature Medicine had the highest number of citations. Author Greenhalgh T has the highest number of papers and citations. The main research topics were: pathophysiology, symptoms, treatment, and epidemiology. The causes of long COVID may be related to organ injury, inflammation, maladaptation of the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) pathway, and mental factors. The symptoms are varied, including physical and psychological symptoms. Treatment options vary from person to person. Most patients developed at least one long-term symptom. Finally, we presented some possible research opportunities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Fighting against COVID-19: Latest Advances, Challenges and Methodologies)
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12 pages, 1488 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of the Pathogenic-Mixed Biofilm Formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa/Staphylococcus aureus and Treatment with Limonene on Three Different Materials by a Dynamic Model
by Edvige Gambino, Angela Maione, Marco Guida, Luisa Albarano, Federica Carraturo, Emilia Galdiero and Valeria Di Onofrio
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3741; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063741 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2853
Abstract
Background: Biofilms have been found growing on implantable medical devices. This can lead to persistent clinical infections. The highly antibiotic-resistant property of biofilms necessitates the search for both potent antimicrobial agents and novel antibiofilm strategies. Natural product-based anti-biofilm agents were found to be [...] Read more.
Background: Biofilms have been found growing on implantable medical devices. This can lead to persistent clinical infections. The highly antibiotic-resistant property of biofilms necessitates the search for both potent antimicrobial agents and novel antibiofilm strategies. Natural product-based anti-biofilm agents were found to be as efficient as chemically synthesized counterparts with fewer side effects. In the present study, the effects of limonene as an antibiofilm agent were evaluated on Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formed on different surfaces using the CDC model system in continuous flow. The flgK gene and the pilA gene expression in P. aeruginosa, and the icaA gene and eno gene in S. aureus, which could be considered as efficient resistance markers, were studied. Methods: Mono- and dual-species biofilms were grown on polycarbonate, polypropylene, and stainless-steel coupons in a CDC biofilm reactor (Biosurface Technologies, Bozeman, MT, USA). To evaluate the ability of limonene to inhibit and eradicate biofilm, a sub-MIC concentration (10 mL/L) was tested. The gene expression of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus was detected by SYBR Green quantitative Real-Time PCR assay (Meridiana Bioline, Brisbane, Australia). Results: The limonene added during the formation of biofilms at sub-MIC concentrations works very well in inhibiting biofilms on all three materials, reducing their growth by about 2 logs. Of the same order of magnitude is the ability of limonene to eradicate both mono- and polymicrobial mature biofilms on all three materials. Greater efficacy was observed in the polymicrobial biofilm on steel coupons. The expression of some genes related to the virulence of the two microorganisms was differently detected in mono- and polymicrobial biofilm. Conclusions: These data showed that the limonene treatment expressed different levels of biofilm-forming genes, especially when both types of strains alone and together grew on different surfaces. Our findings showed that limonene treatment is also very efficient when biofilm has been grown under shear stress causing significant and irreversible damage to the biofilm structure. The effectiveness of the sanitation procedures can be optimized by applying antimicrobial combinations with natural compounds (e.g., limonene). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbial Biofilms-Implications for Healthcare and Environment)
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16 pages, 978 KiB  
Study Protocol
The Current Practice of Gradual Return to Work in Germany: A Qualitative Study Protocol
by Inga L. Schulz, Ralf Stegmann, Uta Wegewitz and Matthias Bethge
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3740; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063740 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2621
Abstract
(1) Background: The increase in working age and long-term illnesses is a challenge for society to maintain the health of employees and to support their work participation. In many countries, such as Germany, a gradual return to work (GRTW) is used frequently to [...] Read more.
(1) Background: The increase in working age and long-term illnesses is a challenge for society to maintain the health of employees and to support their work participation. In many countries, such as Germany, a gradual return to work (GRTW) is used frequently to support returning employees, but little is known about its facilitators and obstacles. This protocol aims to provide an overview of the national state of the art in workplace adjustments during return to work and to outline the design of a qualitative study examining current GRTW practices in Germany. (2) Methods: Our qualitative study will examine the current implementation of GRTW by means of 32 narrative interviews and 10 group discussions from different perspectives. Therefore, we will ask returning employees as well as organisational stakeholders and external experts about their experiences with GRTW and attitudes towards the measure. The verbal data obtained will be analysed using the documentary method of interpretation. (3) Discussion: This study will reveal facilitating and hindering factors for the implementation of GRTW in Germany. The findings of the study may contribute to an improved implementation of GRTW not only in Germany. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Frontiers in Workplace Health Management)
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15 pages, 1771 KiB  
Article
Knowledge and Practice of Antibiotic Management and Prudent Prescribing among Polish Medical Doctors
by Wojciech Stefan Zgliczyński, Jarosław Bartosiński and Olga Maria Rostkowska
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3739; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063739 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2281
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an urgent public health issue. The role of medical doctors in proper antibiotic use is crucial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge and practices of Polish doctors of antimicrobial prescribing and antibiotic resistance. The study [...] Read more.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an urgent public health issue. The role of medical doctors in proper antibiotic use is crucial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge and practices of Polish doctors of antimicrobial prescribing and antibiotic resistance. The study group consisted of 504 medical doctors with an average age 32.8 ± 5.9 years, mostly women (65%). The paper questionnaire was developed on the basis of a survey tool developed by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and Public Health England (PHE). According to our study, physicians were aware that: taking antibiotics has side effects, antibiotics cannot be used against viruses, unnecessary use of antibiotics leads to AMR and that healthy people can carry resistant bacteria (each item ≥98% correct responses). Only 47% of respondents knew that the use of antibiotics as growth stimulants in livestock is illegal in the EU. Of the respondents, 98.61% saw the connection between prescribing antibiotics and AMR. However, 65.28% of the respondents reported a lack of appropriate materials on AMR counseling. Nearly 92.5% of participants “never” or “rarely” gave out resources on prudent antibiotic use. Physicians in Poland underestimate the role of hand hygiene in stimulating antibiotic resistance (ABR) (74.4%), while demonstrating satisfying knowledge about antimicrobial use, the clinical application of antimicrobial guidelines and prevention of ABR. However, educational interventions are needed to help lead challenging communication with assertive patients. Appropriate patient resources would be helpful in reaching this goal. Full article
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11 pages, 811 KiB  
Article
The Influence of Research Follow-Up during COVID-19 Pandemic on Mental Distress and Resilience: A Multicenter Cohort Study of Treatment-Resistant Depression
by Pham Thi Thu Huong, Chia-Yi Wu, Ming-Been Lee, Wei-Chieh Hung, I-Ming Chen and Hsi-Chung Chen
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3738; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063738 - 21 Mar 2022
Viewed by 2099
Abstract
Background: During the COVID-19 outbreak, patients with mental disorders have faced more negative psychological consequences than the public. For people with treatment-resistant depression (TRD), it is unclear whether research engagement would protect them from the deterioration of their symptoms. The study aimed to [...] Read more.
Background: During the COVID-19 outbreak, patients with mental disorders have faced more negative psychological consequences than the public. For people with treatment-resistant depression (TRD), it is unclear whether research engagement would protect them from the deterioration of their symptoms. The study aimed to examine if chronic depressive patients would have improved resilience and mental distress levels after follow-up interviews during an observation period under COVID-19. Methods: The study was nested within a three-year prospective cohort study. A two-group comparison design was conducted, i.e., the follow-up group with regular research interviews every three months after baseline assessment and the control group with one assessment-only interview. The two groups were compared with demographics, psychosocial, and suicide information. Results: Baseline assessments were not significantly different in sociodemographic variables, suicide risks, mental distress, and resilience between groups. Significant differences were detected in resilient coping and mental distress levels (p < 0.05). The follow-up group (n = 46) experienced a higher level of resilient coping (37% vs. 25%) and lower level of mental distress (47.8% vs. 64.7%) than the control group (n = 68). Conclusions: Findings highlight under universal government strategy against COVID-19, TRD patients receiving regular research follow-ups exhibited better resilience and less mental distress than those without regular support from healthcare providers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Burden of COVID-19 in Different Countries)
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25 pages, 828 KiB  
Review
Exposure to Antineoplastic Drugs in Occupational Settings: A Systematic Review of Biological Monitoring Data
by Veruscka Leso, Cristina Sottani, Carolina Santocono, Francesco Russo, Elena Grignani and Ivo Iavicoli
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3737; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063737 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4100
Abstract
The high toxicity of antineoplastic drugs (ADs) makes them dangerous not only for patients, but also for exposed workers. Therefore, the aim of this review was to provide an updated overview of the biological monitoring of occupational AD exposure in order to extrapolate [...] Read more.
The high toxicity of antineoplastic drugs (ADs) makes them dangerous not only for patients, but also for exposed workers. Therefore, the aim of this review was to provide an updated overview of the biological monitoring of occupational AD exposure in order to extrapolate information useful to improve risk assessment and management strategies in workplaces. Several studies demonstrated that remarkable portions of healthcare workers may have traces of these substances or their metabolites in biological fluids, although with some conflicting results. Nurses, directly engaged in AD handling, were the occupational category at higher risk of contamination, although, in some cases, personnel not involved in AD-related tasks also showed quantifiable internal doses. Overall, further research carried out on greater sample sizes appears necessary to gain deeper insight into the variability retrieved in the reported results. This may be important to understand the impact of the extent of ADs use, different handling, procedures, and cleaning practices, spill occurrence, training of the workforce, as well as the adoption of adequate collective and personal protective equipment in affecting the occupational exposure levels. This may support the achievement of the greatest clinical efficiency of such therapies while assuring the health and safety of involved workers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Exposure to Antineoplastic Drugs)
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17 pages, 942 KiB  
Article
Residents’ Support for Tourism Amidst the COVID-19 Era: An Application of Social Amplification of Risk Framework and Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Theory
by Ke Shen and Jian Yang
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3736; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063736 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2599
Abstract
Given that the concept of risk perception stems primarily from consumer behaviour, tourism research has tended to address the issue from tourists’ perspective, resulting in a lack of consideration of destination residents’ risk perception and its impact on their attitudes and subsequent behaviour. [...] Read more.
Given that the concept of risk perception stems primarily from consumer behaviour, tourism research has tended to address the issue from tourists’ perspective, resulting in a lack of consideration of destination residents’ risk perception and its impact on their attitudes and subsequent behaviour. Based on the social amplification of risk framework (SARF) and the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) theory, this study constructed a theoretical model to deepen the understanding of destination residents’ support for tourism. Results indicate that residents’ social media use, knowledge of COVID-19 and attitudes to tourism and tourists are all positively related to their support for tourism. Furthermore, residents’ risk perception is negatively associated with their attitudes to tourism, attitudes to tourists and support for tourism. However, the relationship between residents’ social media use and risk perception was not confirmed. Theoretical and managerial implications were discussed. Full article
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20 pages, 2543 KiB  
Article
Depressive Symptoms and Their Associated Factors in Vocational–Technical School Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic
by Michele da Silva Valadão Fernandes, Thays Martins Vital da Silva, Priscilla Rayanne e Silva Noll, Alexandre Aparecido de Almeida and Matias Noll
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3735; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063735 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2745
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to compare the prevalence of depressive symptoms, behavioral habits, and QoL in students from two vocational–technical schools, and to determine the association of depressive symptoms with behavioral habits and quality of life (QoL) in these students during [...] Read more.
The objectives of this study were to compare the prevalence of depressive symptoms, behavioral habits, and QoL in students from two vocational–technical schools, and to determine the association of depressive symptoms with behavioral habits and quality of life (QoL) in these students during the COVID-19 pandemic. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with students attending the institution of the Brazilian Federal Network of Professional, Scientific and Technological Education. The students answered a questionnaire on sociodemographic variables, situations related to the COVID-19 pandemic, behavioral habits, QoL, and depressive symptoms. The outcome variable was the presence of depressive symptoms, assessed using the Children’s Depression Inventory (CDI). Poisson regression analysis with robust variance was performed. A total of 343 students participated in this study (women, 55.7%; mean age of 16.1 ± 0.93 years). The prevalence of depressive symptoms among students was 43.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 38.0–49.0), and these symptoms were significantly associated with being female (prevalence ratio [PR] 1.72; 95% CI: 1.31–2.27); being in the 10th grade (PR: 1.80; 95% CI: 1.18–2.76) and 9th grade (PR 2.08; 95% CI: 1.37–3.18); social isolation (PR: 2.04; 95% CI: 1.00–4.14); hunger due to a lack of food at home (PR: 1.78; 95% CI: 1.33–2.39); low physical activity levels (PR: 1.68; 95% CI: 1.09–2.59); and moderate (PR: 2.87, 95% CI: 1.68–4.89) and low QoL (PR: 5.66; 95% CI: 3.48–9.19). The results emphasize the importance of interventions aimed mainly at female students and those in the initial years of high school, in addition to the importance of physical activity, food safety, and QoL to improve the mental health of students. Full article
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18 pages, 416 KiB  
Article
Mental Well-Being and Job Satisfaction of Hospital Physicians during COVID-19: Relationships with Efficacy Beliefs, Organizational Support, and Organizational Non-Technical Skills
by Vincenza Capone, Roberta Borrelli, Leda Marino and Giovanni Schettino
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3734; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063734 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 4764
Abstract
The COVID-19 outbreak has led worldwide governments to take preventive measures to contain the spread of the virus and its extraordinary demands upon healthcare workers. Consequently, healthcare workers have been under high pressures, putting them at risk of developing adverse outcomes. The present [...] Read more.
The COVID-19 outbreak has led worldwide governments to take preventive measures to contain the spread of the virus and its extraordinary demands upon healthcare workers. Consequently, healthcare workers have been under high pressures, putting them at risk of developing adverse outcomes. The present study aims to investigate the psychological and organizational factors that contributed to physicians’ well-being during the pandemic. A total of 78 Italian physicians participated in the study. They completed a self-report questionnaire measuring efficacy beliefs, orientation towards patient engagement, job satisfaction, non-technical skills, organizational support, sense of belonging to the hospital, job satisfaction, and mental well-being. Physicians’ sense of belonging to their hospital, efficacy beliefs about their organizations and communication with patients, as well as non-technical skills related to communication and risk awareness were positively associated with job satisfaction. In addition, the latter and sense of belonging to own hospital were positively associated with mental well-being. These findings may guide policymakers and healthcare organizations managers to consider the potential psychosocial factors related to physicians’ well-being and the required preventive measures that can help in enhancing their human and organizational resources to cope with stressful situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health of Health Care Workers in the COVID-19 Pandemic)
19 pages, 6246 KiB  
Article
Parental Views on the Acceptability and Feasibility of Measurement Tools Used to Assess Movement Behaviour of Pre-School Children: A Qualitative Study
by Sophie M. Phillips, Carolyn Summerbell, Kathryn R. Hesketh, Sonia Saxena and Frances C. Hillier-Brown
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3733; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063733 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3005
Abstract
Movement behaviours (physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and sleep) are important for the health and development of pre-school children (aged 3–4 years). There is limited qualitative research examining the acceptability and feasibility of tools used to assess movement behaviours in pre-schoolers. This study explored [...] Read more.
Movement behaviours (physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and sleep) are important for the health and development of pre-school children (aged 3–4 years). There is limited qualitative research examining the acceptability and feasibility of tools used to assess movement behaviours in pre-schoolers. This study explored parental views on various measurement tools in three deprived areas in England, UK (West Yorkshire, County Durham and Northumberland). The study consisted of a demonstration of the different tools (accelerometers, a diary and a questionnaire), directly followed by focus group discussions. Three focus group discussions with a total of eleven parents and carers were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed four main themes: (1) importance of contextual information when using any measurement tool (e.g., child illness, capturing different routines); (2) practical issues associated with devices (e.g., aversion to devices being attached directly to the skin of their child; concern of larger devices during sleep time); (3) encouraging children to wear a device (e.g., making devices attractive to children—‘superpowers’); and (4) presentation of diaries and questionnaires (e.g., age-appropriate movement activities, preference for real-time recording over recall). Practical recommendations for the use of the tools to measure movement behaviours of pre-school children are provided. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Children's Health)
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20 pages, 1518 KiB  
Article
Variables Influencing Professors’ Adaptation to Digital Learning Environments during the COVID-19 Pandemic
by Diego Vergara-Rodríguez, Álvaro Antón-Sancho and Pablo Fernández-Arias
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3732; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063732 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 41 | Viewed by 3884
Abstract
This paper conducts quantitative research on the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the adaptation to digital learning environments (DLE) of a group of 908 university professors. We compared the perceptions of participants who were digital natives (born before 1980) with those of [...] Read more.
This paper conducts quantitative research on the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the adaptation to digital learning environments (DLE) of a group of 908 university professors. We compared the perceptions of participants who were digital natives (born before 1980) with those of digital immigrants (born after 1980). For this purpose, a validated survey was used and the obtained responses statistically analyzed. The results show a negative correlation between pandemic stress and the digital competence of professors and their adaptation skills to digital environments, which although weak for both of the two groups compared are stronger for digital immigrants. Both self-confidence and digital competence show a positive influence on the perception of adaptation of skills to DLE, and this is weaker in digital natives. Gaps were identified by gender and area of knowledge of the participants; consequently, the need to carry out training actions for university faculty on skills linked to their digital competence in teaching is clear. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Teaching and Learning Process: Psychological Variables in Education, New Applied Technologies and Physical Activity)
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10 pages, 627 KiB  
Article
Quality of Life in Patients with Pancreatic Cancer before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic
by Andrea Alexander, Stephen Fung, Martin Eichler, Nadja Lehwald-Tywuschik, Vasuki Uthayakumar, Sami-Alexander Safi, Christian Vay, Hany Ashmawy, Sinan Kalmuk, Alexander Rehders, Sascha Vaghiri and Wolfram Trudo Knoefel
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3731; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063731 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2667
Abstract
Background: Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) substantially affects cancer patients due to adverse outcomes and disruptions in cancer care. Recent studies have indicated the additional stress and anxiety burden arising from the pandemic and impairing quality of life in this vulnerable group of patients. [...] Read more.
Background: Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) substantially affects cancer patients due to adverse outcomes and disruptions in cancer care. Recent studies have indicated the additional stress and anxiety burden arising from the pandemic and impairing quality of life in this vulnerable group of patients. However, patients with cancer represent a heterogenous group. Therefore, we conducted a study on patients with pancreatic cancer, requiring demanding surgical interventions and chemotherapy regimens due to its aggressive tumor biology, to explore the pandemic’s impact on quality of life within this homogenous cohort. Methods: In a descriptive observational study, the quality of life of patients who had undergone pancreatic surgery for tumor resection at our institution between 2014 and the beginning of the pandemic in March 2020 was assessed. For HRQoL measurement, we used the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Core Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30), comparing their situation before the pandemic and since its beginning. An additional self-developed questionnaire was applied to assess the life circumstances during the pandemic. Results: Our cohort included 26 patients. Scores from the survey in HRQoL revealed no significant changes over time between before and during the pandemic. A medium deterioration in HRQoL was apparent in social functioning, as well as a small deterioration in role functioning and emotional functioning. Worries concerning a potential impact of COVID-19 on personal health were expressed. Psychological limitations in QoL were mainly attributed to the pandemic, whereas physical limitations in QoL were rather associated with the underlying disease of pancreatic cancer. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic is causing considerable social and emotional distress among pancreatic cancer patients. These patients will benefit from psychological support during the pandemic and beyond. Long-time survivors of pancreatic cancer, such as those included in our cohort, appear to have improved resilience facing the psychosocial challenges of the pandemic. For pancreatic cancer, surgical care is considered the cornerstone of treatment. Prolonged delays in healthcare cause serious damage to mental and physical health. To date, the longer-term clinical consequences are not known and can only be estimated. The potential tragic outcome for the vulnerable group of pancreatic cancer patients highlights the urgency of timely healthcare decisions to be addressed in the future. Full article
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15 pages, 500 KiB  
Article
Examining the Impact of Stressors during COVID-19 on Emergency Department Healthcare Workers: An International Perspective
by Elizabeth Keller, Meghan Widestrom, Jory Gould, Runcheng Fang, Kermit G. Davis and Gordon Lee Gillespie
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3730; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063730 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2988
Abstract
Emergency department healthcare workers are known to face a unique combination of pressures from their careers and work environments regularly. Caring for dying patients and making difficult lifesaving decisions not only continued but also became more prevalent for emergency department healthcare workers during [...] Read more.
Emergency department healthcare workers are known to face a unique combination of pressures from their careers and work environments regularly. Caring for dying patients and making difficult lifesaving decisions not only continued but also became more prevalent for emergency department healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. A growing body of literature revealed that the mental and emotional toll of COVID-19 has been tremendous. However, the burden of COVID-19 on the overall physical health and work–life balance on this group needs to be understood. This study aimed to describe the impact of stress on wellbeing and health across the globe among emergency department healthcare workers. A cross-sectional survey comprising work–family and family–work conflict scale, work–life balance, physical symptoms inventory, Oldenburg Burnout Inventory, satisfaction with job and life, and life change index scale was distributed to a convenience sample through listservs and social media. In total, 287 participants responded, 109 completing all questions. Fatigue was the most common symptom reported to occur daily (28.4%, n = 31), followed by muscle pain (13.8%, n = 15) and backache (11.9%, n = 13). Nurse practitioners reported the highest number of physical symptoms and the highest average scores and counts of stressful life events, while registered nurses indicated the highest work–family conflict levels. Linear regressions showed that stressful life events are significantly associated with both physical symptoms and work–family conflict. Results underscore the need to better support emergency department workers to mitigate the risks associated with occupational stress. Protective organizational policies and increased support strategies may be employed to improve wellbeing and cultivate a more sustainable workforce. Full article
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19 pages, 3517 KiB  
Article
Designing of a Recombinant Multi-Epitopes Based Vaccine against Enterococcus mundtii Using Bioinformatics and Immunoinformatics Approaches
by Metab Alharbi, Abdulrahman Alshammari, Abdullah F. Alasmari, Salman Mansour Alharbi, Muhammad Tahir ul Qamar, Asad Ullah, Sajjad Ahmad, Muhammad Irfan and Atif Ali Khan Khalil
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3729; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063729 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 3227
Abstract
Enterococcus species are an emerging group of bacterial pathogens that have a significant role in hospital-associated infections and are associated with higher mortality and morbidity rates. Among these pathogens, Enterococcus mundtii is one of the causative agents of multiple hospital associated infections. Currently, [...] Read more.
Enterococcus species are an emerging group of bacterial pathogens that have a significant role in hospital-associated infections and are associated with higher mortality and morbidity rates. Among these pathogens, Enterococcus mundtii is one of the causative agents of multiple hospital associated infections. Currently, no commercially available licensed vaccine is present, and multi-drug resistant strains of the pathogen are prominent. Due to several limitations of experimental vaccinology, computational vaccine designing proved to be helpful in vaccine designing against several bacterial pathogens. Herein, we designed a multi-epitope-based vaccine against E. mundtii using in silico approaches. After an in-depth analysis of the core genome, three probable antigenic proteins (lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase, siderophore ABC transporter substrate-binding protein, and lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase) were shortlisted for epitope prediction. Among predicted epitopes, ten epitopes—GPADGRIAS, TTINHGGAQA, SERTALSVTT, GDGGNGGGEV, GIKEPDLEK, KQADDRIEA, QAIGGDTSN, EPLDEQTASR, AQWEPQSIEA, QPLKFSDFEL—were selected for multi-epitope vaccine construct designing. The screened B- and T-cell epitopes were joined with each other via specific linkers and linked to the cholera toxin B subunit as an adjuvant to enhance vaccine immune protection efficacy. The designed vaccine construct induced cellular and humoral immune responses. Blind docking with immune cell receptors, followed by molecular dynamic simulation results confirms the good binding potency and stability of the vaccine in providing protection against the pathogen. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases)
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22 pages, 931 KiB  
Article
Effects of Classical Breathing Exercises on Posture, Spinal and Chest Mobility among Female University Students Compared to Currently Popular Training Programs
by Éva Csepregi, Zsuzsanna Gyurcsik, Ilona Veres-Balajti, Attila Csaba Nagy, Zoltán Szekanecz and Sándor Szántó
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3728; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063728 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4203
Abstract
Worldwide, university students’ physical health and posture are declining due to a sedentary lifestyle. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effectiveness of physiotherapeutic breathing exercises on posture and spinal mobility among healthy female university students compared to other training methods. [...] Read more.
Worldwide, university students’ physical health and posture are declining due to a sedentary lifestyle. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effectiveness of physiotherapeutic breathing exercises on posture and spinal mobility among healthy female university students compared to other training methods. Sixty-one female students of the University of Debrecen were assigned to breathing exercise (BE; n = 15), yoga (Y; n = 16), Pilates (P; n = 15) programmes and interval-training (IT; n = 15). Each training session lasted one hour, performed twice a week for 7 weeks. Students were assessed using standardized clinical tests. All programmes resulted in significant improvement in chest expansion. Results of Schober’s test showed substantial improvement using BE (p < 0.05), Y, P (p ≤ 0.01) programmes. Significant changes in occiput-to-wall distance (Y, P p ≤ 0.01) (BE p ≤ 0.001) were observed in three groups except the IT group. Fingertip-to-floor test (Y, P p < 0.05) results showed significant changes in two groups. The most outstanding effects on lateral flexion were achieved using BE (right, left p ≤ 0.001) programme. A comparison with results achieved using yoga and Pilates revealed that the physiotherapeutic breathing exercise programme is an equally effective method to significantly improve spinal mobility and correct postural problems in healthy young women. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity in Women)
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11 pages, 880 KiB  
Article
Choices of Specialties and Training Sites among Taiwanese Physicians Graduating from Polish Medical Schools
by Tzu-Ling Weng, Feng-Yuan Chu, Chiao-Lin Li and Tzeng-Ji Chen
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3727; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063727 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1721
Abstract
Taiwanese students who graduated from Polish medical schools (P-IMGs) accounted for the second-largest group of international medical graduates in Taiwan. In 2009, domestic medical students in Taiwan staged mass demonstrations against P-IMG’s exemption from the qualifying test before the licensing exam. Although medical [...] Read more.
Taiwanese students who graduated from Polish medical schools (P-IMGs) accounted for the second-largest group of international medical graduates in Taiwan. In 2009, domestic medical students in Taiwan staged mass demonstrations against P-IMG’s exemption from the qualifying test before the licensing exam. Although medical circles in Taiwan might still hold prejudices against P-IMGs, little is known about their career development. This study will analyze P-IMGs’ choices of specialties and training sites from 2000 to 2020 using data from the membership section of the Taiwan Medical Journal, the monthly official publication of the Taiwan Medical Association. Of 372 P-IMGs, 34.2% chose internal medicine and 17.1% surgery. Although academic medical centers offered 76% of all available trainee positions in a year, only 49.3% of P-IMGs received training there. By contrast, 20.9% of P-IMGs were trained at nonmetropolitan hospitals that altogether accounted for only 5.8% of trainee positions. In conclusion, P-IMGs had their residency training at less favorable specialties and sites. Their long-term career development deserves further study. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Workforce and the Challenges of Health Care Systems)
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14 pages, 1306 KiB  
Article
Handgrip Strength-Related Factors in a Colombian Hypertensive Population: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Yulieth Rivas-Campo, Elsa Patricia Muñoz-Laverde, Agustín Aibar-Almazán, José Daniel Jiménez-García, Antonio Martínez-Amat, Patricia Alexandra García-Garro, Juan Miguel Muñoz-Perete, Manuel Garcia-Sillero and Yolanda Castellote-Caballero
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3726; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063726 - 21 Mar 2022
Viewed by 1787
Abstract
(1) Background: This study determined the factors associated with manual grip strength in people with high blood pressure (HBP); (2) Methods: 219 subjects participated in this cross-sectional study, which evaluated muscle strength (manual dynamometer), sociodemographic factors, clinical characteristics, level of physical activity (International [...] Read more.
(1) Background: This study determined the factors associated with manual grip strength in people with high blood pressure (HBP); (2) Methods: 219 subjects participated in this cross-sectional study, which evaluated muscle strength (manual dynamometer), sociodemographic factors, clinical characteristics, level of physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire-IPAQ score), and depression (Zung’s Depression Self-Rating Scale); (3) Results: The bivariate analysis found that handgrip strength in people with HPB was associated with sex (p = 0.000), age (p = 0.000), ethnicity (p = 0.019), smoking habits (p = 0.037), alcohol consumption (p = 0.004), diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.012), weight (p = 0.000), height (p = 0.000), measurement of waist circumference (p = 0.002), depression (p = 0.041), and IPAQ score (p = 0.000). Regardless of being male or female, handgrip strength was associated with age (p = 0.009), IPAQ (p = 0.000), weight (p = 0.038), height (p = 0.000), DPB units (p = 0.043), and depression (p = 0.020). The multivariate generalized linear gamma regression model showed that the coefficient with the greatest weight, regardless of sex, was age (p = 0.043), level of physical activity (24% more at high level than at low level, p = 0.031), and depression (moderate/severe depression level) associated with lower handgrip strength (p = 0.025); (4) Conclusions: Handgrip strength showed an association with level of physical activity, age, and level of depression in a middle-aged population with HBP. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Muscle Strength and Fall Prevention)
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16 pages, 366 KiB  
Article
Developmental Disorder Probability Scores at 6–18 Years Old in Relation to In-Utero/Peripartum Antiretroviral Drug Exposure among Ugandan Children
by Jorem Emmillian Awadu, Alla Sikorskii, Sarah Zalwango, Audrey Coventry, Bruno Giordani and Amara E. Ezeamama
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3725; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063725 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1856
Abstract
(1) We examined the hypothesis that in utero/peripartum antiretroviral (IPA) exposure may affect the likelihood of developmental disorders—i.e., attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and functional impairment (FI). (2) Children and their primary caregivers were enrolled and followed for [...] Read more.
(1) We examined the hypothesis that in utero/peripartum antiretroviral (IPA) exposure may affect the likelihood of developmental disorders—i.e., attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and functional impairment (FI). (2) Children and their primary caregivers were enrolled and followed for 12 months. The sample included 250 children perinatally HIV-infected (CPHIV), 250 children HIV-exposed and uninfected (CHEU) of women living with HIV, and 250 children HIV unexposed and uninfected (CHUU) at 6–18 years of age. CHEU’s IPA exposure -type was established via medical records and categorized as no IPA, single-dose nevirapine with/without zidovudine (SdNVP ± AZT), SdNVP + AZT + Lamivudine (3TC), or combination ART (cART). Developmental disorders were assessed at months 0, 6, and 12 per caregiver response to standardized questions from the third edition of Behavioral Assessment System for Children. Multivariable repeated measures linear regression models estimated standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) according to the IPA exposure type relative to CHUU with adjustment for the dyad’s sociodemographic and psychosocial factors. (3) Relative to the CHUU, outcomes were similar for CPHIV/CHEU with cART, SdNVP ± AZT, and no anti-retroviral drug exposure in the peripartum period. For CHEU relative to CHUU, SdNVP + AZT + 3TC exposure was associated with lower resiliency (SMD = −0.26, 95% CI: −0.49, −0.51), and elevated scores on ADHD (SMD = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.12, 0.70), ASD (SMD = 0.40, 95% CI: 0.19, 0.61), and EBD (SMD = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.08, 0.56) probability and functional impairment (SMD = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.18, 0.61) index scores. With the exception of ADHD, the adverse association between SdNVP + AZT + 3TC and outcomes were replicated for CPHIV vs. CHUU. (4) The results provided reassuring evidence that cART exposure in the peripartum period is unlikely to be adversely associated with developmental disorder probability scores in late childhood and adolescent years. However, the peripartum SdNVP + AZT + 3TC exposure associated elevation in developmental disorder probability and functional limitation at 6–18 years of life is a concern. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Consequences of Prenatal Exposure to Adverse Environmental Factors in Infants and Children)
22 pages, 3488 KiB  
Article
A New Academic Quality at Work Tool (AQ@workT) to Assess the Quality of Life at Work in the Italian Academic Context
by Margherita Brondino, Fulvio Signore, Agnese Zambelli, Emanuela Ingusci, Silvia Pignata, Amelia Manuti, Maria Luisa Giancaspro, Alessandra Falco, Damiano Girardi, Dina Guglielmi, Marco Depolo, Barbara Loera, Daniela Converso, Sara Viotti, Andreina Bruno, Silvia Gilardi, Michela Cortini, Francesco Pace, Vincenza Capone, Silvia Platania, Margherita Zito, Margherita Pasini, Massimo Miglioretti, Giuseppina Dell’Aversana, Giuseppe Carrus and Paola Spagnoliadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3724; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063724 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3030
Abstract
The present study provides evidence for a valid and reliable tool, the Academic Quality at Work Tool (AQ@workT), to investigate the quality of life at work in academics within the Italian university sector. The AQ@workT was developed by the QoL@Work research team, namely [...] Read more.
The present study provides evidence for a valid and reliable tool, the Academic Quality at Work Tool (AQ@workT), to investigate the quality of life at work in academics within the Italian university sector. The AQ@workT was developed by the QoL@Work research team, namely a group of expert academics in the field of work and organizational psychology affiliated with the Italian Association of Psychologists. The tool is grounded in the job demands-resources model and its psychometric properties were assessed in three studies comprising a wide sample of lecturers, researchers, and professors: a pilot study (N = 120), a calibration study (N = 1084), and a validation study (N = 1481). Reliability and content, construct, and nomological validity were supported, as well as measurement invariance across work role (researchers, associate professors, and full professors) and gender. Evidence from the present study shows that the AQ@workT represents a useful and reliable tool to assist university management to enhance quality of life, to manage work-related stress, and to mitigate the potential for harm to academics, particularly during a pandemic. Future studies, such as longitudinal tests of the AQ@workT, should test predictive validity among the variables in the tool. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Psychosocial Issues in Occupational Disease and Occupational Health)
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12 pages, 837 KiB  
Article
Correlation between Salivary Levels of IGF-1, IGFBP-3, IGF-1/IGFBP3 Ratio with Skeletal Maturity Using Hand-Wrist Radiographs
by Abdullah Almalki, Julie Toby Thomas, Abdul Rehman Ahmed Khan, Basim Almulhim, Abdullah Alassaf, Sara Ayid Alghamdi, Betsy Joseph, Ali Alqerban and Saud Alotaibi
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3723; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063723 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5792
Abstract
Objective: The relevance of growth determination in orthodontics is driving the search for the most precise and least invasive way of tracking the pubertal growth spurt. Our aim was to explore whether minimally invasive salivary estimation of biomarkers Insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) and [...] Read more.
Objective: The relevance of growth determination in orthodontics is driving the search for the most precise and least invasive way of tracking the pubertal growth spurt. Our aim was to explore whether minimally invasive salivary estimation of biomarkers Insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) and Insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) could be used to estimate skeletal maturity for clinical convenience, especially in children and adolescent age groups. Materials and Method: The cross-sectional study was conducted on 90 participants (56 girls and 34 males) with ages ranging from 6 to 25 years. Each subject’s hand-wrist radiograph was categorized based on skeletal maturity, and saliva samples were estimated for IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 using the respective ELISA kits. Kruskal–Wallis nonparametric ANOVA was applied to compare different skeletal stages. Results: The study demonstrated low salivary IGF-1 levels at the prepubertal stage, with increase during pubertal onset and peak pubertal stage followed by a decline during pubertal deceleration to growth completion. Spearman’s correlation coefficient demonstrated a strong positive association (r = 0.98 p < 0.01) between salivary IGF/IGFBP-3 ratio and different stages of skeletal maturity. Conclusion: Salivary IGF-1, IGFBP-3, and IGF/IGFBP-3 ratio could serve as a potential biochemical marker for predicting the completion of skeletal maturity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oral Health — Prevention, Diagnostics, Therapy and Quality of Life)
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14 pages, 351 KiB  
Article
Patient Safety and Staff Well-Being: Organizational Culture as a Resource
by Luo Lu, Yi-Ming Ko, Hsing-Yu Chen, Jui-Wen Chueh, Po-Ying Chen and Cary L. Cooper
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3722; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063722 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 6431
Abstract
The present study examines the relationship between patient safety culture and health workers’ well-being. Applying the conservation of resources mechanism, we tested theory-based hypotheses in a large cross-disciplinary sample (N = 3232) from a Taiwanese metropolitan healthcare system. Using the structural equation modeling [...] Read more.
The present study examines the relationship between patient safety culture and health workers’ well-being. Applying the conservation of resources mechanism, we tested theory-based hypotheses in a large cross-disciplinary sample (N = 3232) from a Taiwanese metropolitan healthcare system. Using the structural equation modeling technique, we found that patient safety culture was negatively related to staff burnout (β = −0.74) and could explain 55% of the total variance. We also found that patient safety culture was positively related to staff work–life balance (β = 0.44) and could explain 19% of the total variance. Furthermore, the above relationships were invariant across groups of diverse staff demography (gender, age, managerial position, and incident reporting) and job characteristics (job role, tenure, and patient contact). Our findings suggest that investing in patient safety culture can be viewed as building an organizational resource, which is beneficial for both improving the care quality and protecting staff well-being. More importantly, the benefits are the same for everyone in the healthcare services. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exclusive Papers Collection of Editorial Board Members in Section "Occupational Safety and Health")
14 pages, 6949 KiB  
Article
Distribution Patterns of Degeneration of the Lumbar Spine in a Cohort of 200 Patients with an Indication for Lumbar MRI
by Philipp Näther, Jan Felix Kersten, Ingmar Kaden, Kemal Irga and Albert Nienhaus
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3721; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063721 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4898
Abstract
Lower back pain is one of the most common causes of a reduced quality of life. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the best suited imaging technique to detect causes of that pain. We retrospectively evaluated the MRIs of the lumbar spine for 200 [...] Read more.
Lower back pain is one of the most common causes of a reduced quality of life. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the best suited imaging technique to detect causes of that pain. We retrospectively evaluated the MRIs of the lumbar spine for 200 patients in order to describe the distribution of signs of degeneration with regard to age, sex, and position of the disc affected. The number of spinal segments affected by degeneration increased with age, as did the number of signs of degeneration per segment. In patients aged between 21 and 30, 38.8% of discs were affected, while for patients aged between 51 and 60, 91.6% of discs were affected. There was no statistically significant gender difference. The lower two segments were most commonly affected by degeneration. The most common were structural changes to the discs, which affected 88.4% of patients over 50. Spondylosis was the most common bone-related change, found in 60.4% of patients over the age of 50. A reduction in disc height increases the likelihood of structural changes to the disc and bone-related changes. When investigating risk factors for developing disc-related diseases, the complex disc degeneration patterns described here should be taken into account. Full article
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12 pages, 936 KiB  
Review
Identifying Organizational Stressors That Could Be a Source of Discomfort in Police Officers: A Thematic Review
by Daniela Acquadro Maran, Nicola Magnavita and Sergio Garbarino
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3720; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063720 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3209
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to highlight the organizational factors that might influence perceived discomfort in police officers. The studies included in the thematic review referred to specific factors, not the general terms “organizational stressors” or “workplace stressors”. It is important to [...] Read more.
The aim of this paper is to highlight the organizational factors that might influence perceived discomfort in police officers. The studies included in the thematic review referred to specific factors, not the general terms “organizational stressors” or “workplace stressors”. It is important to emphasize this distinction because most studies use the general term “organizational stressor” (referring to context) to distinguish from “operational stressor” (referring to content, such as exposure to danger, threat, and trauma). For our purposes, we selected the studies that examined specific organizational factors. The results indicate that organizational social support, organizational culture, leadership, and bureaucracy are the organizational factors associated with police officers’ perceived discomfort. These organizational factors could have negative impacts on individuals, perceptions of stigma when contacting support services, anxiety and depressive symptoms, burnout, PTSD, and suicidal thoughts, among others. Full article
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19 pages, 1210 KiB  
Article
Examining the Relationship between COVID-19 Related Job Stress and Employees’ Turnover Intention with the Moderating Role of Perceived Organizational Support: Evidence from SMEs in China
by Hongshan Lai, Md Altab Hossin, Jieyun Li, Ruping Wang and Md Sajjad Hosain
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3719; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063719 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4571
Abstract
The outbreak of COVID-19 has exerted an enormous impact on society, enterprises, and individuals. It has affected the work attitudes and psychology of employees to a certain extent and their job stress (JS) has also augmented accordingly, leading to increased turnover intention (TI). [...] Read more.
The outbreak of COVID-19 has exerted an enormous impact on society, enterprises, and individuals. It has affected the work attitudes and psychology of employees to a certain extent and their job stress (JS) has also augmented accordingly, leading to increased turnover intention (TI). With the survey responses of 720 employees of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in China as the sample, we studied the impact of COVID-19 related JS and TI with the moderating effect of perceived organizational support (POS). We utilized linear and multiple regression analysis using Windows SPSS 25. The research findings indicated that the JS caused by COVID-19 in the first affected region (Hubei) was significantly stronger than that in other regions (non-Hubei). JS had a significant positive relationship with employees’ TI, while POS had a significant negative connection with employees’ TI. We also identified that POS weakened the positive association between JS and employees’ TI. These findings are expected to be conducive to and conductive for the upcoming theoretical and empirical investigations as the founding guidelines, as well as for managers in formulating effective policies to curb JS, which would ultimately be helpful in reducing TI. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Crisis: The Economic, Health and Environmental Impacts)
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15 pages, 1149 KiB  
Article
Impact of Industrial Structure Upgrading on Green Total Factor Productivity in the Yangtze River Economic Belt
by Jinhua Sun, Decai Tang, Haojia Kong and Valentina Boamah
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3718; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063718 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 30 | Viewed by 2227
Abstract
The Yangtze River economic belt is an inland river economic belt with international influence composed of 11 provinces and municipalities in the Yangtze River Basin. This paper uses the super-efficiency model to calculate the green total factor productivity of 11 provinces and municipalities [...] Read more.
The Yangtze River economic belt is an inland river economic belt with international influence composed of 11 provinces and municipalities in the Yangtze River Basin. This paper uses the super-efficiency model to calculate the green total factor productivity of 11 provinces and municipalities in the Yangtze River economic belt (YREB). Then we establish a model to study the impact of industrial structure upgrading, industrial structure rationalization, and environmental regulation on green total factor productivity (GTFP). Empirical analysis shows that the industrial structure upgrading and environmental regulation have a significant impact on GTFP and show regional characteristics. The more developed the economy and the higher the industrial structure, the greater the impact of upgrading and environmental regulation on GTFP. Compared with other control variables, the urbanization rate impacts GTFP, followed by regional economic development. Full article
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17 pages, 1241 KiB  
Article
Work–Family Interaction, Self-Perceived Mental Health and Burnout in Specialized Physicians of Huelva (Spain): A Study Conducted during the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic
by Francisco-Javier Gago-Valiente, Emilia Moreno-Sánchez, Alba Santiago-Sánchez, David Gómez-Asencio, María-de-los-Ángeles Merino-Godoy, Estefanía Castillo-Viera, Emília Isabel Costa, Adrián Segura-Camacho, Luis-Carlos Saenz-de-la-Torre and María-Isabel Mendoza-Sierra
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3717; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063717 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2430
Abstract
Background: The medical staff who work in specialized healthcare are among the professionals with a greater risk of presenting negative indicators of mental health. These professionals are exposed to numerous sources of stress that can have a negative influence on their personal life. [...] Read more.
Background: The medical staff who work in specialized healthcare are among the professionals with a greater risk of presenting negative indicators of mental health. These professionals are exposed to numerous sources of stress that can have a negative influence on their personal life. Currently, SARS-CoV-2 poses an additional and relevant source of stress. The aim of this study was to identify the interactions between the work and family environments, as well as to analyze self-perceived mental health and burnout in physicians who, during the COVID-19 pandemic, carried out their jobs in public health in Huelva (Spain), also considering a series of sociodemographic variables. Methods: This is a descriptive, cross-sectional study. Information from 128 participants was collected using the SWING, MBI-HSS and GHQ-12 questionnaires, along with sociodemographic data and possible situations of contact with SARS-CoV-2. The data were analyzed, and correlations were established. Results: Most of the sample obtained a positive interaction result of work over family. Those who had been in contact with SARS-CoV-2 represented higher percentages of a positive result in GHQ-12, negative work–family interaction, burnout, emotional exhaustion and depersonalization. In general, the men showed a worse mental health state than women. Conclusions: The medical staff of Huelva who had been in contact with situations of SARS-CoV-2 in their work environment presented worse indicators of mental health and greater negative interaction of work over family than those who had not been in contact with these situations. Full article
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