International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

20 pages, 3410 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification and Assessment of the Driving Forces behind Changes in the Foothill Landscape: Case Studies of the Mysłakowice and Jelenia Góra Communities in Poland

by Piotr Krajewski, Monika Lebiedzińska and Iga Kołodyńska

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10462; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610462 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2122

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to determine the driving forces behind landscape change and the perceptions of change by the residents of selected research areas. The communities used for the study were Mysłakowice and Jelenia Góra, located in the Lower Silesia [...] Read more.

The main objective of this study was to determine the driving forces behind landscape change and the perceptions of change by the residents of selected research areas. The communities used for the study were Mysłakowice and Jelenia Góra, located in the Lower Silesia region in Poland. Mysłakowice is a rural community, and Jelenia Góra is an urban community. The landscape of both municipalities is dominated by forest-covered mountains surrounding dispersed built-up and agricultural areas. The time range of the analysis was 2005–2020, covering the period after Poland’s accession to the European Union, and was divided into the following three time periods: 2005–2010, 2010–2015, and 2015–2020. The research methodology consisted of the following three stages: (1) the identification of landscape changes on the basis of land cover data and the calculation of the landscape change index (LCI), (2) the characterization and classification of the identified landscape changes, and (3) the identification of the driving forces of landscape changes through surveys with the residents of both municipalities. The results obtained based on the surveys were often consistent with the results from the GIS analysis. The respondents were able to identify the most important changes and proposed the driving forces affecting them. According to the residents of Mysłakowice and Jelenia Góra, the changes in the landscape between 2005 and 2020 were primarily the result of political and socio-economic driving forces, accompanied by forces from other groups. However, each time period was distinctive. The analysis showed which types of changes in the landscape were viewed positively and negatively by the people during the analyzed periods of time, and what the influence of the different driving forces was on the formation of changes in the landscape. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impacts of Human Activities and Climate Change on Landscape)

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12 pages, 1735 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characteristics of Homebirth in Hungary: A Retrospective Cohort Study

by Girma A. Wami, Viktória Prémusz, György M. Csákány, Kovács Kálmán, Viola Vértes and Péter Tamás

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10461; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610461 - 22 Aug 2022

Viewed by 2406

Abstract

Homebirth is legal and has been regulated by law in Hungary since 2012. Despite the obvious advantages of homebirth, it has not yet been broadly accepted, due to various opinions related to safety and risks associated with giving birth outside of a hospital. [...] Read more.

Homebirth is legal and has been regulated by law in Hungary since 2012. Despite the obvious advantages of homebirth, it has not yet been broadly accepted, due to various opinions related to safety and risks associated with giving birth outside of a hospital. Our study aimed at exploring both real maternal and feto-neonatal characteristics associated with Hungarian homebirths. A total of 2997 cases were considered in support of our retrospective cohort study. In the examined period, there was a significant, continual rise in the number of homebirths by a rate of 0.22% on average per year. Aggregated maternal complications (primary uterine inertia, prolonged second stage labour, and third stage haemorrhage) were prevalent among homebirth cases (1.29% vs. 0.72%, p < 0.05) and were associated with an average of 11.77% rate of transfer to a health care institution. On the other hand, the rate of operative (vaginal or caesarean) delivery was 26.31% among institutionalized births. A slightly better Apgar score and relatively high rate (20%) of caesarean deliveries were correlated with institutionalized births (p < 0.05). However, the overall intervention rate was lower among homebirths (0.11% vs. 42.57%) than institutional birth cases (p < 0.001). Overall, homebirth is a reliable option for childbirth for healthy and low-risk mothers with uncomplicated pregnancies, which is reflected in the increasing number of deliveries at home in Hungary. Furthermore, utilizing the experiences of countries where homebirth is a long-established method may further improve the outcome of homebirths in Hungary. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maternal, New-Born and Child Health)

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13 pages, 2748 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Soil at Different Depths under a Long-Term Experiment Depending on Fertilization

by Sławomir Józef Krzebietke, Ewa Mackiewicz-Walec, Stanisław Sienkiewicz, Jadwiga Wierzbowska, Dariusz Załuski and Agata Borowik

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10460; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610460 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2147

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of long-term fertilization with manure and mineral fertilizers on the content and distribution of selected polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)—the content of a sum of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, light and heavy PAHs in [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of long-term fertilization with manure and mineral fertilizers on the content and distribution of selected polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)—the content of a sum of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, light and heavy PAHs in two soil layers (0–30 cm and 30–60 cm). The material for the study was composed of soil samples collected from the sixth rotation in a long-term, controlled field experiment, conducted in Bałcyny since 1986. The content of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons was determined on a gas chromatographer coupled with an FID detector. In order to evaluate the significance of differences between the mean effects on the tested characteristics, a non-parametric Mann–Whitney U test for two independent samples was applied. A higher content of the sum (16) of PAHs was found in the 0–30 cm than in the 30–60 cm soil layer. The research results also demonstrated a higher content of the sum of light PAHs in the 30–60 cm than in the 0–30 cm soil layer. The content of heavy PAHs, in turn, was significantly higher in the upper than in the deeper soil layer. This dependence appeared in both the soil fertilized with manure and soil nourished only with mineral fertilizers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture: Soil Health and Waste Management)

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15 pages, 1184 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Technology and Quality of Life of Older People in Times of COVID: A Qualitative Study on Their Changed Digital Profile

by Alicia Murciano-Hueso, Antonio-Víctor Martín-García and Ana Paula Cardoso

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10459; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610459 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3158

Abstract

The situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic brought negative consequences such as social isolation, limited access to routine health and social care services, and lack of self-esteem, especially for older people. In this context, technology took on an important role as the main [...] Read more.

The situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic brought negative consequences such as social isolation, limited access to routine health and social care services, and lack of self-esteem, especially for older people. In this context, technology took on an important role as the main means of communication and service delivery. The main objective of this study is to analyze the situation of the elderly and their access to technological resources in the time of COVID-19. Based on a qualitative methodology, 58 semi-structured interviews were conducted with people between 65 and 90 years old in Portugal. The results reveal specific difficulties in the use of this type of digital devices and a change in the digital use profile of this age group, characterized by more frequent use of digital devices such as smartphones, the incorporation of certain services such as video calls, and uses associated with communication and entertainment. This study shows that attitudes toward technology among the elderly should be studied further, and these results should be considered to develop and implement training programs specially designed for this age group in order to contribute to their well-being and quality of life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Aging)

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18 pages, 729 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sex Differences between Urinary Phthalate Metabolites and Metabolic Syndrome in Adults: A Cross-Sectional Taiwan Biobank Study

by Ya-Ling Shih, Chia-Jung Hsieh, Tso-Ying Lee, Pei-Hung Liao, Hao-Ting Wu and Chieh-Yu Liu

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10458; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610458 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2429

Abstract

Background: Phthalates are widely used in consumer products, food packaging, and personal care products, so exposure is widespread. Several studies have investigated the association of phthalate exposure with obesity, insulin resistance, and hypertension. However, little is known about the associations of phthalate exposure [...] Read more.

Background: Phthalates are widely used in consumer products, food packaging, and personal care products, so exposure is widespread. Several studies have investigated the association of phthalate exposure with obesity, insulin resistance, and hypertension. However, little is known about the associations of phthalate exposure with sex, age, and menopausal status in metabolic syndrome (MetS). The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between 11 urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations and metabolic syndrome in adults. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 1337 adults aged 30–70 years from the Taiwan Biobank 2016–2020. Prevalence odds ratios (POR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using logistic regression and stratified by sex, age, and menopausal status. Results: Participants with MetS comprised 16.38%. Higher concentrations of MEP metabolites were associated with more than two- to three-fold increased odds of MetS in males and males ≥ 50 years (adj. POR Q3 vs. Q1 = 2.13, 95% CI: 1.01, 4.50; p = 0.047 and adj. POR Q2 vs. Q1 = 3.11, 95% CI: 0.13, 8.63; p = 0.029). When assessed by menopausal status, postmenopausal females with higher ∑DEHP concentrations had more than nine-fold higher odds of MetS compared with postmenopausal females with the lowest ∑DEHP concentrations (adj. POR Q3 vs. Q1 = 9.58, 95% CI: 1.18, 77.75; p = 0.034). Conclusions: The findings suggest differential associations between certain phthalate metabolites and MetS by sex, age, and menopausal status. Full article

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16 pages, 5468 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Making Pb Adsorption-Saturated Attapulgite with Excellent Photocatalysis Properties through a Vulcanization Reaction and Its Application for MB Wastewater Degradation

by Xiao Zhang, Chen Chen, Ting Cheng, Mingyue Wen, Lei Wang and Fenxu Pan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10457; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610457 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 1886

Abstract

Attapulgite (AT) is a clay mineral with rich reserves in China, and it has good adsorption activity for Pb-containing wastewater. However, as a hazardous waste, the treatment of Pb adsorption-saturated attapulgite was quite difficult. In this work, through a simple vulcanization reaction, the [...] Read more.

Attapulgite (AT) is a clay mineral with rich reserves in China, and it has good adsorption activity for Pb-containing wastewater. However, as a hazardous waste, the treatment of Pb adsorption-saturated attapulgite was quite difficult. In this work, through a simple vulcanization reaction, the waste Pb adsorption-saturated attapulgite (AT@Pb) was transformed into composite materials (AT@PbS) with good photocatalytic performance. After comprehensive material characterization (including XRD, TEM, XPS, and UV-Vis), the photocatalytic degradation performance and mechanism of AT@PbS for methylene blue (MB) were investigated. The results revealed that AT@PbS was a composite material of attapulgite nanorods (500–600 nm) and nanosquare PbS particles (80–100 nm). Additionally, AT@PbS displayed good visible light absorption, improved photo-electric properties, excellent photodegradation performance for MB, and recycling stability. Moreover, the energy band range of AT@PbS was about −0.043 V to 1.367 V. The photo-generated holes and their derived hydroxyl radicals were the main active species for MB degradation. This work not only provides a new approach to construct the composite photocatalyst, but also demonstrates the possibility of the comprehensive utilization of heavy metal adsorbents for wastewater degradation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Application of Advanced Oxidation Technology in Water Purification and Treatment)

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24 pages, 1098 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cohort Profile: The Assessing Economic Transitions (ASSET) Study—A Community-Based Mixed-Methods Study of Economic Engagement among Inner-City Residents

by Lindsey Richardson, Anita Minh, Deb McCormack, Allison Laing, Skye Barbic, Kanna Hayashi, M.-J. Milloy, Kimberly R. Huyser, Kathleen Leahy and Johanna Li

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10456; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610456 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2666

Abstract

The Assessing Economic Transitions (ASSET) study was established to identify relationships between economic engagement, health and well-being in inner-city populations given that research in this area is currently underdeveloped. This paper describes the objectives, design, and characteristics of the ASSET study cohort, an [...] Read more.

The Assessing Economic Transitions (ASSET) study was established to identify relationships between economic engagement, health and well-being in inner-city populations given that research in this area is currently underdeveloped. This paper describes the objectives, design, and characteristics of the ASSET study cohort, an open prospective cohort which aims to provide data on opportunities for addressing economic engagement in an inner-city drug-using population in Vancouver, Canada. Participants complete interviewer-administered surveys quarterly. A subset of participants complete nested semi-structured qualitative interviews semi-annually. Between April 2019 and May 2022, the study enrolled 257 participants ages 19 years or older (median age: 51; 40% Indigenous, 11.6% non-Indigenous people of colour; 39% cis-gender women, 3.9% transgender, genderqueer, or two-spirit) and 41 qualitative participants. At baseline, all participants reported past daily drug use, with 27% currently using opioids daily, and 20% currently using stimulants daily. In the three months prior to baseline, more participants undertook informal income generation (75%) than formal employment (50%). Employed participants largely had casual jobs (42%) or jobs with part-time/varied hours (35%). Nested qualitative studies will focus on how inner-city populations experience economic engagement. The resulting evidence will inform policy and programmatic initiatives to address socioeconomic drivers of health and well-being. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Work, Health, and Equity)

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17 pages, 1398 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimation of Tinnitus-Related Socioeconomic Costs in Germany

by Konstantin Tziridis, Jana Friedrich, Petra Brüeggemann, Birgit Mazurek and Holger Schulze

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10455; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610455 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2321

Abstract

Despite the high prevalence of tinnitus in Germany of nearly 12% of the general population, there have been no systematic studies on the socioeconomic costs for German society caused by tinnitus so far. Here we analyzed data from 258 chronic tinnitus patients—namely tinnitus [...] Read more.

Despite the high prevalence of tinnitus in Germany of nearly 12% of the general population, there have been no systematic studies on the socioeconomic costs for German society caused by tinnitus so far. Here we analyzed data from 258 chronic tinnitus patients—namely tinnitus severity and health utility index (HUI)—and correlated them with their tinnitus-related public health care costs, private expenses, and economic loss due to their tinnitus percept as assessed by questionnaires. We found correlations of the HUI with health care costs and calculated the mean socioeconomic costs per tinnitus patient in Germany. According to our most conservative estimate, these sum up to EUR 4798.91 per year. Of that EUR 2206.95 account for the public health care, EUR 290.45 are carried by the patient privately and the remaining EUR 2301.51 account for economical loss due to sick leave. With a prevalence of 5.5% with at least bothersome tinnitus, this sums up to 21.9 billion Euro per year and with 25.82 sick leave days; tinnitus patients miss work more than double the time of the average German employee (10.9 days). The findings fit within the cost ranges of studies from other European countries and the USA and show that the socioeconomic burden of this disease-like symptom is a global problem. In comparison with the costs of other major chronic diseases in Germany—such as chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (ca. 16 billion Euro) or diabetes mellitus (ca. 42 billion Euro)—the relevance of the ‘symptom’ tinnitus for the German social economy becomes even more obvious. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Health Economics)

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7 pages, 328 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimating the 18-Year Threshold with Third Molars Radiographs in the Southern Italy Population: Accuracy and Reproducibility of Demirjian Method

by Mario Caggiano, Giuseppe Scelza, Alessandra Amato, Raffaele Orefice, Simona Belli, Stefano Pagano, Chiara Valenti and Stefano Martina

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10454; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610454 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1743

Abstract

The estimation of the age of the majority of living subjects is widely required nowadays due to the presence of unidentifiable individuals, without documents and general information, involved in migration or legal procedures. Dental age estimation (DAE) is a valid method for investigating [...] Read more.

The estimation of the age of the majority of living subjects is widely required nowadays due to the presence of unidentifiable individuals, without documents and general information, involved in migration or legal procedures. Dental age estimation (DAE) is a valid method for investigating the age of subjects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of the Demirjian method in a limited age group (16–24 years) in differentiating between older and younger than 18 years. From an initial sample of 17,594 radiographs, 460 were selected meeting the inclusion criteria. Two dentists provided the age estimate according to the Demirjian method, with a simplified approach based on the development of the third molars. The presence of a developmental stage of H for at least one third molar allowed to establish the major age if the other third molars, inferior or superior, have reached a stage equal or superior to F, with an accuracy of 90.2% and a predictive positive value of 91.6%. Thirty-three patients showed the development of at least one third molar (Stage H) before the age of 18 years while six patients showed the development of all four third molars with root completion (stage H) before the age of 18 years. When all third molars reached stage H an individual was over 18 years old in 97.4% of cases. In presence of one third molar on stage H and a stage equal or superior to F for the other third molars the probability of being of major age was 91.6%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Vulnerability and Health Care: Analysis and Intervention)

19 pages, 2627 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanism of Enterprise Green Innovation Behavior Considering Coevolution Theory

by Xingwei Li, Jiachi Dai, Jinrong He, Jingru Li, Yicheng Huang, Xiang Liu and Qiong Shen

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10453; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610453 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2628

Abstract

Enterprise green innovation behavior is necessary for the transformation of enterprises and the enhancement of green development. However, the inconsistency of existing studies on the behavioral mechanism has not been effectively addressed. The purpose of this paper is to reveal a mechanism for [...] Read more.

Enterprise green innovation behavior is necessary for the transformation of enterprises and the enhancement of green development. However, the inconsistency of existing studies on the behavioral mechanism has not been effectively addressed. The purpose of this paper is to reveal a mechanism for enterprise green innovation behavior, taking the coevolutionary theory. Based on the coevolution theory model, this study screened 16 high-quality studies covering 11 countries and regions with 5471 independent samples from six major databases (Web of Science Core Collection (SCIE & SSCI), Science Direct, Springer Link, Wiley, Taylor & Francis, and Sage journals). The included literature was coded and tested. Meta-analysis was used to clarify the direction and intensity of the behavioral antecedent and outcome variables to explore the mechanism of enterprise green innovation behavior. Furthermore, this study also explores the moderating effect of regional heterogeneity on behavior. The results are as follows: (1) The economic, political, social, and technological environments significantly and positively influence enterprise green innovation behavior. (2) Enterprises’ green innovation behavior significantly and positively influences environmental performance. (3) Regional heterogeneity can moderate the effects of enterprise green innovation behavior and antecedent and consequence variables. Then, this study proposes countermeasures based on government and enterprise perspectives. This study provides both theoretical and empirical referents for enterprises to better adopt green innovation behaviors and enhance their green development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Clean Production and Green Development on Environment Ecology)

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17 pages, 2195 KiB

Open AccessReview

Family and Educational Strategies for Cyberbullying Prevention: A Systematic Review

by Pamela Tozzo, Oriana Cuman, Eleonora Moratto and Luciana Caenazzo

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10452; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610452 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 11782

Abstract

Cyberbullying can be described as a form of bullying carried out by an individual or a group through digital media with the intention to harm others. It has been recognized as a public health issue recently; however, of the vast literature published in [...] Read more.

Cyberbullying can be described as a form of bullying carried out by an individual or a group through digital media with the intention to harm others. It has been recognized as a public health issue recently; however, of the vast literature published in recent years on the phenomenon, only a small part concerns strategies adopted to prevent and combat cyberbullying, and the effectiveness of these strategies appears to be scarce. We conducted a systematic review of the literature published in the last five years about different interventions studied to prevent and contrast cyberbullying. Our results show how most of the strategies currently developed focus on the educational aspect, involving schools and families. Other authors describe technology-based practices to set programs to reduce and prevent cyberbullying through the usage of digital instruments, the same used by minors themselves. Finally, remaining tactics use a more comprehensive approach, mixing tools already in use in the aforementioned strategies. Cyberbullying requires wide-ranging methods to combat it, involving the contribution of mental health professionals, educators, and digital experts cooperating synergically. Prevention and contrast instruments should be defined, implemented, tested, and combined in order to deal with cyberbullying. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bullying and Cyberbullying: Definition, Prevalence Rates, Risk/Protective Factors, and Interventions)

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13 pages, 2909 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Different Exercise Modes on Inflammatory Response in the Elderly

by Haotian Zhao, Zhijian He, Hezhang Yun, Ruifu Wang and Chang Liu

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10451; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610451 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2964

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different exercise modes on improving inflammatory response in the elderly. For the research methodology, databases such as CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure), Wanfang Data, Pubmed, Web of Science, and EBSCO were selected [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different exercise modes on improving inflammatory response in the elderly. For the research methodology, databases such as CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure), Wanfang Data, Pubmed, Web of Science, and EBSCO were selected for searching. The Cochrane Risk of Bias (ROB) tool was used to evaluate the methodological quality of the included studies, and RevMan5.4.1 analysis software was applied for the statistical analysis. A total of 31 studies (20 randomized controlled trials and 11 self-controlled trials) with 1528 subjects were included. The results of this meta-analysis showed that aerobic exercise, resistance exercise, aerobic + resistance exercise, and HIIT all significantly reduced the levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and CRP in the elderly, and the improvement effects of aerobic + resistance exercise on IL-6, HIIT on TNF-α, and resistance exercise on CRP in the elderly were better than those of the other three exercise modes, respectively. In conclusion, aerobic exercise, resistance exercise, aerobic + resistance exercise, and HIIT all contribute to ameliorating the inflammatory status of the elderly, among which resistance exercise is a noteworthy exercise mode for the elderly to improve inflammatory status. Full article

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12 pages, 990 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Proprietary Model of Qualification for In-Hospital Rehabilitation after COVID-19

by Jan Szczegielniak, Anna Szczegielniak, Jacek Łuniewski and Katarzyna Bogacz

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10450; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610450 - 22 Aug 2022

Viewed by 1866

Abstract

Background: Since the beginning of the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic in Poland, 6,128,006 people have been diagnosed, of which 116,798 died. Patients who recovered from COVID-19 and require rehabilitation due to varied impairments should be provided an opportunity to participate in an individualized, complex rehabilitation [...] Read more.

Background: Since the beginning of the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic in Poland, 6,128,006 people have been diagnosed, of which 116,798 died. Patients who recovered from COVID-19 and require rehabilitation due to varied impairments should be provided an opportunity to participate in an individualized, complex rehabilitation program starting from acute care and being continued in the post-acute and long-term rehabilitation phase. It is recommended to offer out-patient and in-hospital rehabilitation procedures depending on the type and persistence of symptoms and dysfunctions. The aim of this paper is to present the qualification process of post-COVID19 patients for an in-hospital complex rehabilitation program developed on the basis of pulmonary physical therapy. Methods: The presented qualification program was developed on the basis of clinical experience of over 2000 patients participating in the pilot program of in-hospital rehabilitation launched in September 2020 and based on the Regulation of the Polish Minister of Health of 13 July 2020. Results: The proposed model of patients’ qualification rests on well-known and validated tools for functional assessment: exercise tolerance assessment, dyspnea intensity assessment, functional fitness assessment, assessment of arterial blood saturation, lung ventilation function assessment, assessment of long-lasting COVID-19 symptoms, and patient’s basic mental health condition. Conclusions: The proposed qualification model for the post-COVID rehabilitation program allows us to introduce adequate qualifications followed by much needed assessment of the health effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19 Pandemics and Public Health)

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14 pages, 610 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antimicrobial, Multi-Drug and Colistin Resistance in Enterobacteriaceae in Healthy Pigs in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana, 2022: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Rita Ohene Larbi, Wisdom Adeapena, Matilda Ayim-Akonor, Ebenezer D. O. Ansa, Hannock Tweya, Robert Fraser Terry, Appiah-Korang Labi and Anthony D. Harries

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10449; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610449 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2748

Abstract

There is little published information on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in animals in Ghana. We determined the prevalence and factors associated with AMR, multi-drug resistance (MDR-resistance to ≥3 antimicrobial classes) and colistin resistance in Enterobacteriaceae in healthy pigs in Accra, Ghana. Rectal swabs obtained [...] Read more.

There is little published information on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in animals in Ghana. We determined the prevalence and factors associated with AMR, multi-drug resistance (MDR-resistance to ≥3 antimicrobial classes) and colistin resistance in Enterobacteriaceae in healthy pigs in Accra, Ghana. Rectal swabs obtained from the pigs on 20 farms from January to March 2022, were examined for Escherichia coli, Enterobacter spp. and Klebsiella pneumoniae. AMR was determined using standard microbiological techniques and the mcr-1 gene detected through molecular analysis. Enterobacteriaceae were isolated from 197 of 200 pigs: these comprised 195 E. coli isolates, 38 Enterobacter spp. and 3 K. pneumoniae, either singly or combined. Over 60% of E. coli were resistant to tetracycline, with 27% and 34% being resistant to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and ampicillin, respectively; 23% of E. coli and 5% of Enterobacter spp. exhibited MDR phenotypes. Phenotypic colistin resistance was found in 8% of E. coli and Enterobacter spp., with the mcr-1 gene detected in half. Our study findings should be incorporated into on-going AMR, MDR and colistin resistance surveillance programs in Ghana. We further advocate for tailored-specific education for pig farmers on animal antimicrobial use and for strengthened regulatory policy on antimicrobial usage and monitoring in the animal production industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Operational Research to Tackle Antimicrobial Resistance in Ghana)

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9 pages, 478 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Assessment of Viscoelastic Parameters of Muscles in Children Aged 4–9 Months with Minor Qualitative Impairment of the Motor Pattern after Vojta Therapy Implementation

by Agnieszka Ptak, Agnieszka Dębiec-Bąk and Małgorzata Stefańska

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10448; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610448 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1811

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess if there are any objective changes in the viscoelastic parameters of the erector spinae muscle after Vojta stimulation. The study involved 22 healthy children at an average age of 7 months and with an Apgar [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to assess if there are any objective changes in the viscoelastic parameters of the erector spinae muscle after Vojta stimulation. The study involved 22 healthy children at an average age of 7 months and with an Apgar score of 8–10 points, who were referred for rehabilitation due to a slight delay in the phases of psychomotor development. The first group consisted of 11 children with increased muscle tone (IMT) and the second group consisted of 11 children with non-increased muscle tone (nonIMT). All study participants received a one-time Vojta therapy session, which was continued for 4 weeks by parents at home. The viscoelastic parameters of the dorsal extensor muscle were measured three times. In the first study group, changes in the viscoelastic parameters of the extensor muscles of the back occurred immediately after the therapy at the first examination, whereas changes in the supporting and extensor function of the limbs occurred in both groups at the second examination. Analysis featuring an objective assessment allows physiotherapists to diagnose local changes in the viscoelastic parameters after the implementation of therapy. These studies are the first pilot studies to be continued with a 30- or 60-day follow-up. Full article

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12 pages, 1583 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Obesity, Burden of Ischemic Heart Diseases and Their Ecological Association: The Case of Uzbekistan

by Murodkhon Marufkhonovich Usmanov, Odgerel Chimed-Ochir, Bilegt Batkhorol, Yui Yumiya, Lola Mamazairovna Hujamberdieva and Tatsuhiko Kubo

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10447; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610447 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2157

Abstract

Ischemic heart diseases are the leading cause of death in Uzbekistan. There are numerous risk factors affecting ischemic heart disease, and obesity is one of the major independent risk factors. This study is the first attempt to estimate the ecological association between obesity [...] Read more.

Ischemic heart diseases are the leading cause of death in Uzbekistan. There are numerous risk factors affecting ischemic heart disease, and obesity is one of the major independent risk factors. This study is the first attempt to estimate the ecological association between obesity prevalence and the burden of ischemic heart disease between 1990 and 2019 in Uzbekistan. To define the prevalence of all obesity types, death, and incidences of ischemic heart disease for certain periods, the Joinpoint regression tool was used. A separate linear regression analysis was performed to analyze the relationship between obesity and ischemic heart disease mortality and morbidity. A positive linear relation was found between the prevalence of obesity types and incidence/death rates for both sexes (r = 0.59–0.87). All types of obesity were highly significant positive predictors of incidence of and death from ischemic heart disease (p < 0.0001). The slope (B1) suggested that for an increment in obesity prevalence of 1% among adults aged over 20, the incidence of ischemic heart disease increased by 40.2 (p < 0.0001) and 38.3 (p < 0.0001) per 100,000 persons for men and women, respectively. The current country-level conclusions are valuable, because it allows decision makers to draw specific conclusions, applicable at the state and local level for policymaking. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prevalence and Risk Factors of Obesity and Hypertension)

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12 pages, 1894 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reducing the Effectiveness of Ward Particulate Matter, Bacteria and Influenza Virus by Combining Two Complementary Air Purifiers

by Bingliang Zhou, Tiantian Liu, Siqi Yi, Yuanyuan Huang, Yubing Guo, Si Huang, Chengxing Zhou, Rong Zhou and Hong Cao

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10446; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610446 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2533

Abstract

Air purifiers should pay much attention to hospital-associated infections, but the role of a single air purifier is limited. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the combined application of the nonequilibrium positive and negative oxygen ion purifier (PNOI) [...] Read more.

Air purifiers should pay much attention to hospital-associated infections, but the role of a single air purifier is limited. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the combined application of the nonequilibrium positive and negative oxygen ion purifier (PNOI) and the high-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA) on a complex, polluted environment. Two of the better performing purifiers were selected before the study. The efficacy of their use alone and in combination for purification of cigarette particulate matter (PM), Staphylococcus albicans, and influenza virus were then evaluated under a simulated contaminated ward. PNAI and HEPA alone are deficient. However, when they were combined, they achieved 98.44%, 99.75%, and 100% 30 min purification rates for cigarette PM, S. albus, and influenza virus, respectively. The purification of pollution of various particle sizes and positions was optimized and reduced differentials, and a subset of airborne influenza viruses is inactivated. Furthermore, they were superior to ultraviolet disinfection for microbial purification in air. This work demonstrates the strong purification capability of the combined application of these two air purifiers for complex air pollution, which provides a new idea for infection control in medical institutions. Full article

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13 pages, 1483 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Noise Can Influence Experience-Based Decision-Making under Different Types of the Provided Information

by Youyu Sheng, Di Dong, Gang He and Jingyu Zhang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10445; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610445 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2542

Abstract

Pervasive noise undermines many cognitive processes. Across two studies, we examined how noise influences experience-based decision-making and whether the nature of the information provided moderates this influence. Study 1 used the repeated choice paradigm and found that noise can significantly reduce people’s performance [...] Read more.

Pervasive noise undermines many cognitive processes. Across two studies, we examined how noise influences experience-based decision-making and whether the nature of the information provided moderates this influence. Study 1 used the repeated choice paradigm and found that noise can significantly reduce people’s performance in experience-based decision-making by increasing the likelihood of choosing the option with the lower expected value. This negative influence can be attenuated when experience-congruent suggestions are provided, but significantly worsened when experience-incongruent suggestions are provided. Study 2 investigated how noise influences decision-making performance in two experience-incongruent conditions differing in error salience. By replicating noise’s general negative effect, we found that the noise effect could be attenuated when incongruent suggestions were obvious. We suggest that noise can undermine the information updating and integration process, which is necessary for experience-based decision-making. We also discuss the principles for designing better information aids based on these findings. Full article

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11 pages, 1133 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fatty Liver Change in Korean Adults in a Systematic Social Distancing System Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Multicenter Analysis

by Ji-Hee Haam, Yang-Im Hur, Young-Sang Kim, Kyoung-Kon Kim, Jee-Hyun Kang, Hae-Jin Ko, Yoon Jeong Cho, Hye-In Choi, Kyu Rae Lee, Jung Ha Park, Soo Hyun Cho, Jong-Koo Kim, Taesic Lee, Myung-Jae Seo, Yeong Sook Yoon, Yoobin Seo, Ga Eun Nam and Sun Hyun Kim

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10444; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610444 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2110

Abstract

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Korean government implemented policies including the systematic social distancing (SSD) system which started on 28 June 2020. The present study investigated the development and aggravation of fatty liver measured using ultrasonography during the transition period (from [...] Read more.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Korean government implemented policies including the systematic social distancing (SSD) system which started on 28 June 2020. The present study investigated the development and aggravation of fatty liver measured using ultrasonography during the transition period (from pre-SSD to SSD) compared to the fatty liver changes during the pre-SSD period. Changes in fatty liver and liver enzymes were assessed in different groups stratified by alcohol consumption. Our retrospective cohort analysis included 5668 participants who underwent health checkups at 13 university hospitals during the SSD period and two or more checkups before the SSD period. Fatty liver developed and aggravated more in the transition period (13.6% development and 12.0% aggravation) than in the pre-SSD period (10.8% development and 10.1% aggravation) in the alcohol consumption group. This finding was more prominent in women than in men. Abnormal alanine transaminase levels were more often developed in the transition period than in the pre-SSD period, especially in men (11.1% vs. 8.6% in each period). In conclusion, the SSD system may contribute to fatty liver changes in individuals who regularly consume alcohol. Further research of the post-pandemic period is needed to assess long-term changes in fatty liver disease. Full article

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

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19 pages, 2939 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perceived Past and Current COVID-19-Stressors, Coping Strategies and Psychological Health among University Students: A Mediated-Moderated Model

by Maria Clelia Zurlo, Federica Vallone and Maria Francesca Cattaneo Della Volta

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10443; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610443 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2734

Abstract

The COVID-19-pandemic entailed abrupt/long-lasting changes in university students’ lives, resulting in growing stress and stress-related outcomes. Although nowadays the pre-pandemic-life is gradually re-establishing, past-COVID-19-stressful experiences and strategies adopted to adjust to this condition may significantly impact students’ current experiences. Therefore, the development of [...] Read more.

The COVID-19-pandemic entailed abrupt/long-lasting changes in university students’ lives, resulting in growing stress and stress-related outcomes. Although nowadays the pre-pandemic-life is gradually re-establishing, past-COVID-19-stressful experiences and strategies adopted to adjust to this condition may significantly impact students’ current experiences. Therefore, the development of research exploring the complex interplay between perceived past/present COVID-19-related experiences, coping strategies, and psychological health currently reported by students is needed. This study simultaneously tests the associations between Past-COVID-19-stressors and Current-COVID-19-stressors as moderated by Coping Strategies and the associations between Past-COVID-19-stressors and Psychological Symptoms as mediated by Current-COVID-19-stressors. A mediated-moderated model was tested on 355 university students. COVID-19-Student-Stress-Questionnaire (CSSQ) was used to assess COVID-19-stressors. Two CSSQ-versions were used, one of which was adjusted to assess Past-COVID-19-stressors recalled from previous restrictive pandemic phases. Coping-Orientation-to-Problem-Experienced-New-Italian-Version and Symptom-Checklist-90-Revised were used to assess, respectively, Coping Strategies and Psychological Symptoms. Findings confirmed the hypothesized Mediated-Moderated Model. The effects of Past-COVID-19-stressors on Current-COVID-19-stressors were moderated by Coping Strategies, and the effects of Past-COVID-19-stressors on Psychological Symptoms were mediated by Current-COVID-19-stressors. Unique psychopathological risk profiles deriving from the interplay between specific past/present stressors and coping strategies were found. Researchers and clinicians can use these findings to develop updated research and timely evidence-based interventions fostering students’ adjustment in the current period. Future research should further explore the impact of the complex interplay between perceived past/present COVID-19-related experiences and individual characteristics on psychological health conditions reported by people in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Disorders and Coping Strategies in COVID-19)

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15 pages, 623 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Promoting University Students’ Mental Health through an Online Multicomponent Intervention during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Anne Theurel, Arnaud Witt and Rebecca Shankland

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10442; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610442 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4547

Abstract

The mental health of university students is a serious public health issue. The alarming trend of high levels of untreated psychological distress observed during the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the need for prevention programs. Digital tools are a promising means of delivering such programs. [...] Read more.

The mental health of university students is a serious public health issue. The alarming trend of high levels of untreated psychological distress observed during the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the need for prevention programs. Digital tools are a promising means of delivering such programs. Web-based programs are acceptable and effective at improving mental health problems and general mental well-being. However, the usefulness of such digital prevention approaches to address the multiple issues raised by the COVID-19 pandemic needs to be tested. The current study assessed the effectiveness of an 8-week online intervention, integrating a variety of evidence-based strategies for improving French university students’ mental health. Students were assigned to: (1) the online self-help program ETUCARE (n = 53), or (2) the control condition (n = 50). All the participants completed pre- and post-intervention questionnaires that assessed mental health problems and psychological well-being. The findings revealed that, compared to the control group, participation in the online program was associated with higher levels of psychological well-being post-test and fewer clinical symptoms of psychological distress, anxiety, and alcohol consumption. These preliminary findings suggest that the ETUCARE program is a promising multicomponent intervention to buffer the mental health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic in French university students. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Students' Adjustment and Mental Health)

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14 pages, 4691 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of the Referral System on the Accessibility of Healthcare Services: A Case Study of the Wuhan Metropolitan Development Zone

by Ying Chen and Jiale Wu

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10441; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610441 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2297

Abstract

The geographical accessibility of public healthcare institutions is the key factor affecting the equity of healthcare services. Based on the hierarchical medical system and referral system in China, we analyzed the referral accessibility of hospitals in the Wuhan Metropolitan Development Zone. Before the [...] Read more.

The geographical accessibility of public healthcare institutions is the key factor affecting the equity of healthcare services. Based on the hierarchical medical system and referral system in China, we analyzed the referral accessibility of hospitals in the Wuhan Metropolitan Development Zone. Before the implementation of the referral system, only 7.91% of the total communities met the accessibility standard for secondary and tertiary hospitals, which meant that there was significant inequality in high-level healthcare. Moreover, 5.4% of the total communities did not meet the accessibility standard for primary hospitals, which meant that there were insufficient primary hospitals. After the implementation of the referral system, the proportions of communities meeting the accessibility standards for the first-stage referral, second-stage referral and cross-level referral were 92.6%, 99.9% and 98.3%, respectively. The results show that the referral system has improved the accessibility of healthcare, but it has not completely solved healthcare inequality. The first-stage referral accessibility of healthcare services in the northern, western and eastern groups does not meet the accessibility standard, which is due to the inefficient layout of secondary hospitals. The Wuhan government should construct secondary hospitals in these groups and primary hospitals in the central urban area and the southeastern, southern, western and eastern groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban-Rural Integration and Ecological Environment Change)

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16 pages, 712 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Impacts of Individual and Organizational Factors on South Korea Hotels’ Green Performance Using the AMO Model

by Taeuk Kim

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10440; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610440 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2970

Abstract

The goal of this study is to investigate the influence relationship between AMO applied green HRM and employees’ green OCB. This study also attempted to verify the relationship between employees’ green OCB and green performance management. Specifically, we tried to define the effects [...] Read more.

The goal of this study is to investigate the influence relationship between AMO applied green HRM and employees’ green OCB. This study also attempted to verify the relationship between employees’ green OCB and green performance management. Specifically, we tried to define the effects of green awareness and green psychological climate on green HRM and green OCB. Moreover, we examined the mediating effect of green CSR perception on the relationship between green OCB and green performance management. To do so, we surveyed Rooms and F&B employees from nine global chain hotels in South Korea that actively contribute to a green package. An “actively contributing hotel” is one that has leadership in energy and environmental design certification. Further, employees of such hotels consider them proenvironmental hotels. For data analysis, we carried out SEM and factor analysis using SPSS 18.0 and Amos 20.0 (IBM, Armonk, NY, USA). All hypotheses were adopted as having significantly positive (+) effects. Hypotheses 4, 7, and 11 predicted partial mediating effects. The findings of the study have significant theoretical and practical ramifications for corporate environmental strategic performance management. Specifically, this study identified the relationship between the mediation variables on green OCB and green PM, as demonstrated in previous studies. Additionally, these results provide an effective employee management strategy for the green HRM of green hotels by providing concrete data. First, green hotels need to raise employees’ green awareness and green psychological climate to increase their green OCB. Second, employees themselves ultimately have to enhance the green CSR perception to raise green PM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Corporate Social Responsibility and Value Co-creation for Society)

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15 pages, 388 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Smartphone Addiction among University Students in Light of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Prevalence, Relationship to Academic Procrastination, Quality of Life, Gender and Educational Stage

by Ismael Salamah Albursan, Mohammad Farhan Al. Qudah, Hafidha Sulaiman Al-Barashdi, Salaheldin Farah Bakhiet, Eqbal Darandari, Sumayyah S. Al-Asqah, Heba Ibraheem Hammad, Mohammed M. Al-Khadher, Saleem Qara, Sultan Howedey Al-Mutairy and Huthaifa I. Albursan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10439; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610439 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 8366

Abstract

The current study aims to identify the level and proportions of smartphone addiction, and academic procrastination among university students in the light of the Corona pandemic; identify the differences in smartphone addiction, academic procrastination, and quality of life according to gender and stage [...] Read more.

The current study aims to identify the level and proportions of smartphone addiction, and academic procrastination among university students in the light of the Corona pandemic; identify the differences in smartphone addiction, academic procrastination, and quality of life according to gender and stage of study; and revealing the predictive ability of academic procrastination and quality of life for smartphone addiction. Methods: 556 male and female students from Saudi universities participated in the study, whose ages ranged from 18 to 52 years. Measures of academic procrastination and quality of life were used, in addition to the Italian scale of smartphone addiction, which was translated and checked for validity and reliability. Results: The results revealed that 37.4% of the sample were addicted to smartphone use, while 7.7% had a high level of procrastination, and 62.8% had an average level of procrastination. The results did not show statistically significant differences in smartphone addiction and quality of life according to gender and educational stage, while there were statistically significant differences in academic procrastination according to gender in favor of males, and according to stage of education in favor of undergraduate students. The results also revealed a statistically significant positive relationship between academic procrastination and smartphone addiction, and a statistically significant negative relationship between smartphone addiction and quality of life. A negative relationship between quality of life and academic procrastination was found. The results also revealed that addiction to smartphones could be predicted through academic procrastination and quality of life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19, Healthcare Quality, Patient Safety and Quality of Life)

18 pages, 1659 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship between Depressive Symptoms, Loneliness, Self-Control, and Gaming Disorder among Polish Male and Female Gamers: The Indirect Effects of Gaming Motives

by Andrzej Cudo, Marcin Wojtasiński, Przemysław Tużnik, Agnieszka Fudali-Czyż and Mark D. Griffiths

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10438; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610438 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4283

Abstract

The present study analyzed the relationship between gaming disorder (GD), motives for gaming, and psychological problems in daily life (i.e., depression, loneliness, and self-control deficits) among Polish gamers. More specifically, the purpose of the present study was to analyze the indirect effects between [...] Read more.

The present study analyzed the relationship between gaming disorder (GD), motives for gaming, and psychological problems in daily life (i.e., depression, loneliness, and self-control deficits) among Polish gamers. More specifically, the purpose of the present study was to analyze the indirect effects between GD and psychological problems in daily life via motives for gaming among male and female gamers. Additionally, the present study examined gender differences in motives for gaming and the relationship between the analyzed variables. The sample comprised 652 gamers (233 females; M = 28.77 years; SD = 7.18; age range: 18–48 years). The nine-item Internet Gaming Disorder Scale-Short Version (IGDS9-SF) was used to assess GD. The motives for gaming were assessed using the Motives for Online Gaming Questionnaire (MOGQ). The nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) was used to assess depressive symptoms, and the Brief Self-Control Scale (BSCS) was used to assess self-control. Loneliness was assessed using the De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale. In order to examine the relationship between the study variables, path analysis and indirect effects analysis were performed among both male and female gamers. The present study showed that depressive symptoms and self-control exerted a significant indirect effect on GD via escape and fantasy motives for gaming. Additionally, there was an indirect effect between depressive symptoms and GD via social motives for gaming. However, these indirect effects were found among male gamers only. The present study also showed gender differences in all analyzed gaming motives except escape (males scoring higher on all of them) and in the relationship between depressive symptoms and escape. These findings contribute to a better understanding of GD development mechanisms, which are associated with psychological problems in daily life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Underlying Mechanisms in Behavioral Addictions and Their Meaning for Prevention and Intervention Strategies)

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15 pages, 3509 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Carbon Quantum Dots-Functionalized UiO-66-NH₂ Enabling Efficient Infrared Light Conversion of 5-Hydroxymethylfurfuryl with Waste Ethanol into 5-Ethoxymethylfurfural

by Hong Xiao, Yunting Zhang, Junran Gong, Kexin Li, Xing Chen, Dexin Fang, Guochun Lv, Ganxue Wu, Shihuai Deng and Zhenxing Zeng

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10437; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610437 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2223

Abstract

The catalytic etherification of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) with the waste ethanol into high-energy-density 5-ethoxymethylfurfural (EMF) has been considered as a promising way to simultaneously alleviate the energy crisis and environmental pollution. However, the energy consumption is rather high as the synthesis of EMF requires [...] Read more.

The catalytic etherification of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) with the waste ethanol into high-energy-density 5-ethoxymethylfurfural (EMF) has been considered as a promising way to simultaneously alleviate the energy crisis and environmental pollution. However, the energy consumption is rather high as the synthesis of EMF requires a high temperature to open the etherification reaction. Herein, we demonstrate a clever design and construction of acidified biomass-derived carbon quantum dots (BCQDs)-modified UiO-66-NH₂ that is immobilized on cermasite (H⁺/BCQDs/UiO-66-NH₂@ceramsite), which can use the IR light as driven energy and wasted ethanol to trigger the catalytic conversion of HMF into EMF. The temperature on the surface of the immobilized catalyst could reach as high as 139 °C within 15 min IR irradiation. Due to the aforementioned advantages, the as-prepared catalyst exhibited excellent IR-triggered catalytic performance toward EMF production, where the EMF yields and selectivity were as high as 45% and 65%, respectively. The high catalytic performance originates from the outstanding photo-to-thermal conversion by the introduction of BCQDs, as well as the strong interactions between BCQDs and UiO-66-NH₂ that boosts the etherification reactions. The immobilization of catalyst on cermasite not only benefits catalyst recycling, but more importantly reduces catalyst loss during practical applications. The conceptual study shown here provides new viewpoints in designing energy-effective materials for the conversion of wastes into high-value-added resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Functional Materials for Liquid Waste Disposal)

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17 pages, 763 KiB

Open AccessReview

Physical Activity and Public Health among People with Disabilities: Research Gaps and Recommendations

by Gregory W. Heath and David Levine

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10436; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610436 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3580

Abstract

Physical activity has become an integral component of public health systems modeling the public health core functions of assessment, policy development, and assurance. However, people with disabilities have often not been included in public health efforts to assess, develop policies, or evaluate the [...] Read more.

Physical activity has become an integral component of public health systems modeling the public health core functions of assessment, policy development, and assurance. However, people with disabilities have often not been included in public health efforts to assess, develop policies, or evaluate the impact of physical activity interventions to promote health and prevent disease among people with disabilities. Addressing the core function of assessment, current physical activity epidemiology, and surveillance among people with disabilities across the globe highlights the paucity of surveillance systems that include physical activity estimates among people with disabilities. The status of valid and reliable physical activity measures among people with condition-specific disabilities is explored, including self-report measures along with wearable devices, and deficiencies in measurement of physical activity. The core functions of policy development and assurance are described in the context of community-based intervention strategies to promote physical activity among people with disabilities. The identification of research gaps in health behavior change, policy, and environmental approaches to promoting physical activity among people with disabilities is explored, along with recommendations based on the principles of inclusive and engaged research partnerships between investigators and the members of the disability community. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Public Health: Addressing Gaps in Research for Special Population Subgroups)

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17 pages, 890 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Uncertainty and Well-Being amongst Homeworkers in the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Longitudinal Study of University Staff

by Stephen Wood, George Michaelides, Kevin Daniels and Karen Niven

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10435; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610435 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2099

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic heightened uncertainties in people’s lives—and was itself a source of fresh uncertainty. We report a study of homeworkers on whether such uncertainties, and particularly those related to their work environment, are associated with lower levels of well-being and whether this [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic heightened uncertainties in people’s lives—and was itself a source of fresh uncertainty. We report a study of homeworkers on whether such uncertainties, and particularly those related to their work environment, are associated with lower levels of well-being and whether this association is exacerbated by prior poor well-being. We focus on five uncertainties surrounding the pandemic and employment—the virus, the job quality, workload, logistics of work lives, and support from the employer. Our empirical tests show that uncertainties around the virus, employer support, and their job quality have the strongest negative associations with well-being. These are based on data collected over three time periods in the first year of the pandemic from a sample of university staff (academics and non-academics) and well-being is measured on two continua, anxiety–contentment and depression–enthusiasm. The effects of uncertainties around workload and logistics are less pronounced, but more apparent among employees with better (not poorer) past well-being, at various times of the recession. The study adds to our understanding of the pandemic and highlights the need to link uncertainty to mental health more than it has in the past. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19 in the Workplace: Observations, Research, and Lessons Learned)

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9 pages, 333 KiB

Open AccessStudy Protocol

Manual and Mechanical Induced Peri-Resuscitation Injuries—Post-Mortem and Clinical Findings

by Daniel Gödde, Florian Bruckschen, Christian Burisch, Veronika Weichert, Kevin J. Nation, Serge C. Thal, Stephan Marsch and Timur Sellmann

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10434; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610434 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2108

Abstract

(1) Background: Injuries related to resuscitation are not usually systematically recorded and documented. By evaluating this data, conclusions could be drawn about the quality of the resuscitation, with the aim of improving patient care and safety. (2) Methods: We are planning to conduct [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Injuries related to resuscitation are not usually systematically recorded and documented. By evaluating this data, conclusions could be drawn about the quality of the resuscitation, with the aim of improving patient care and safety. (2) Methods: We are planning to conduct a multicentric, retrospective 3-phased study consisting of (1) a worldwide literature review (scoping review), (2) an analysis of anatomical pathological findings from local institutions in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany to assess the transferability of the review data to the German healthcare system, and (3) depending on the results, possibly establishing potential prospective indicators for resuscitation-related injuries as part of quality assurance measures. (3) Conclusions: From the comparison of literature and local data, the picture of resuscitation-related injuries will be focused on and quality indicators will be derived. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiometabolic Health and Lifestyle Behaviors in Young People)

15 pages, 1046 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of COVID-19 on University Students: An Analysis of Its Influence on Psychological and Academic Factors

by Gerardo Gómez-García, Magdalena Ramos-Navas-Parejo, Juan-Carlos de la Cruz-Campos and Carmen Rodríguez-Jiménez

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10433; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610433 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 3946

Abstract

The irruption of COVID-19 has had different consequences on mental health in the youth population. Specifically, the sector made up of university students has suffered an abrupt change of teaching modality because of the pandemic. As such, this paper aims to analyze the [...] Read more.

The irruption of COVID-19 has had different consequences on mental health in the youth population. Specifically, the sector made up of university students has suffered an abrupt change of teaching modality because of the pandemic. As such, this paper aims to analyze the impact that COVID-19 has had on different personal factors of students: (i) satisfaction with life; (ii) lived uncertainty; (iii) depression, anxiety, and stress, as well as factors related to academic development; (iv) motivation and the creation of teaching and learning strategies during this period; and (v) the perception of the degree of adaptability to the new scenario brought about by the university system. For this purpose, a cross-sectional quantitative design was advocated through the elaboration of an SEM model, which included 1873 university students from Andalusian Universities (Spain). The results reflected the strong negative impact that the pandemic had, especially on the levels of life satisfaction and the indices of depression, anxiety, and stress of the students. Likewise, the findings reflected the relevance of the correct adaptability on the part of the university to these new circumstances. It is necessary for university institutions to focus their efforts on quality attention to students, in order to establish fluid communication with them and to adapt to their academic and personal needs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Promotion in the Educational World：An Integrative Vision in Times of Pandemic)

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