International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

30 pages, 3052 KB

Open AccessReview

Elucidating and Expanding the Restorative Theory Framework to Comprehend Influential Factors Supporting Ageing-in-Place: A Scoping Review

by Anne Johanna Jacoba Grave, Louis Neven and Masi Mohammadi

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6801; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186801 - 21 Sep 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3122

Abstract

Exposure to stress and attention fatigue resulting from changes in capabilities and residing in environments that do not align with individual needs can adversely impact older adults’ mental health and complicate ageing-in-place. Research into the psychological restoration process can help assist in alleviating [...] Read more.

Exposure to stress and attention fatigue resulting from changes in capabilities and residing in environments that do not align with individual needs can adversely impact older adults’ mental health and complicate ageing-in-place. Research into the psychological restoration process can help assist in alleviating these issues. Existing research on restoration perspectives has predominantly centred on university students and lacks comprehensive insights into older adults. Consequently, this study seeks to acquire a deeper understanding of the restorative theory framework within the context of ageing populations. We identified and analysed thirty-nine papers on the restoration process of older adults employing the scoping review method. Our findings indicate that adjustments to the general restorative theory framework are imperative for ageing populations. By incorporating additional features—such as being with and familiarity—the framework can more effectively support the development of age-inclusive neighbourhoods that enhance the mental health of the older population and facilitate healthy ageing-in-place. While more in-depth research is required on the restoration process of older adults, this research marks the initial in adapting the general framework to ageing populations. Furthermore, insight is given into how the adapted framework can contribute to help address the challenges of global ageing and support ageing-in-place. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue An Integrative Approach to Global Ageing: Strategies and Actions Plans)

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19 pages, 411 KB

Open AccessArticle

Commonalities and Differences in the Experiences of Visible Minority Transnational Carer–Employees: A Qualitative Study

by Reemal Shahbaz, Allison Williams, Bharati Sethi and Olive Wahoush

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6800; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186800 - 21 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2330

Abstract

This qualitative study explored the commonalities and differences among the experiences of visible minority Transnational Carer–Employees (TCEs) before and after COVID-19. TCEs are immigrants who live and work in the country of settlement while providing caregiving across international borders. Purposive and snowball sampling [...] Read more.

This qualitative study explored the commonalities and differences among the experiences of visible minority Transnational Carer–Employees (TCEs) before and after COVID-19. TCEs are immigrants who live and work in the country of settlement while providing caregiving across international borders. Purposive and snowball sampling resulted in the participation of 29 TCEs of Pakistani, Syrian, African, and South American origin living in London, Ontario. Thematic analysis of the dataset using the ATLAS.ti software, Version 23.2.1., generated three themes: (1) feelings associated with transnational care; (2) employment experiences of TCEs; and (3) coping strategies for well-being. The results of the secondary analysis conducted herein suggested that there are more similarities than differences across the four cohorts. Many participants felt a sense of satisfaction at being able to fulfill their care obligations; however, a different outlook was observed among some Syrian and African origin respondents, who disclosed that managing care and work is overwhelming. Most TCEs also reported facing limited job options because of language barriers. While various interviewees experienced a lack of paid work and reduced income after COVID-19, a distinct perspective was noted from African descent TCEs as they expressed facing increased work demands after the pandemic. Participants additionally revealed four common coping strategies such as keeping busy, praying, family support, and staying active. Study implications include the promotion of Carer-Friendly Workplace Policies (CFWPs) that can facilitate the welfare of unpaid caregivers. This research is important as it may inform policymakers to create opportunities that may not only foster economic stability of TCEs and the Canadian economy, but also contribute towards a more equitable society. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Work–Life Policies, Employee Health and Well-Being)

12 pages, 1120 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Single Center Observational Study on Clinical Manifestations and Associated Factors of Pediatric Long COVID

by Enrica Mancino, Raffaella Nenna, Luigi Matera, Domenico Paolo La Regina, Laura Petrarca, Elio Iovine, Greta Di Mattia, Antonella Frassanito, Maria Giulia Conti, Enea Bonci, Mattia Spatuzzo, Sara Ialongo, Anna Maria Zicari, Alberto Spalice, Fabio Midulla and on behalf of the Long COVID Research Group

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6799; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186799 - 21 Sep 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2249

Abstract

Children with SARS-CoV-2 are mostly mild symptomatic, but they may develop conditions, such as persisting symptoms, that may put them at greater risk of complications. Our aim was to evaluate the frequency and the presence of risk factors for persisting COVID-19 symptoms in [...] Read more.

Children with SARS-CoV-2 are mostly mild symptomatic, but they may develop conditions, such as persisting symptoms, that may put them at greater risk of complications. Our aim was to evaluate the frequency and the presence of risk factors for persisting COVID-19 symptoms in children. We carried out a prospective observational study of the clinical manifestation of Long COVID at the Department of Maternal Infantile Science of a tertiary University hospital in Rome. We included 697 children (0–18 years), with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. Children and parents were asked questions regarding persistent symptoms of COVID-19. Children with symptoms 30 days after initial diagnosis were 185/697 (26.4%). Moreover, 81/697 (11.6%) patients presented symptoms 90 days after the diagnosis. Thirty-day-persisting symptoms were mostly present in children with anosmia, atopy, asthenia, and cough in the acute phase compared with the asymptomatic children 30 days after infection. After 90 days, symptoms described were mainly neurological (47/697 children, 6.7%), and headache (19/697; 2.7%) was the most frequent manifestation. In conclusion, a relatively large proportion of the patients reported persisting symptoms that seem to be related to the symptom burden and to the atopy. Ninety days after the infection, most of the children had recovered, showing that long-term effects are not frequent. Limitations of the study include the single-center design and the lack of a control group. Full article

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7 pages, 314 KB

Open AccessBrief Report

Trees, Climate Change, and Health: An Urban Planning, Greening and Implementation Perspective

by Alistair Woodward, Andrea Hinwood, Daniel Bennett, Brenton Grear, Sotiris Vardoulakis, Neha Lalchandani, Katrina Lyne and Carmel Williams

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6798; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186798 - 21 Sep 2023

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4718

Abstract

The In Conversation: Boundary, Spanners, Thinkers and Policy Actors Round Table Series provides a platform for researchers, policy actors, and implementation experts to elevate discussion on emerging issues, present new and upcoming research, and facilitate conversations around impacts and possible solutions. This brief [...] Read more.

The In Conversation: Boundary, Spanners, Thinkers and Policy Actors Round Table Series provides a platform for researchers, policy actors, and implementation experts to elevate discussion on emerging issues, present new and upcoming research, and facilitate conversations around impacts and possible solutions. This brief report, on trees, climate change, and health, reflects a conversation between the authors of this paper, along with supporting literature. It explores the potential of green spaces and trees as a viable strategy to address climate change challenges and simultaneously improve population health, well-being, and health equity. In particular, it highlights the public health benefits of trees and green space, the challenges faced in urban areas, and opportunities for the protection, maintenance and regeneration of urban green space. Full article

30 pages, 5002 KB

Open AccessArticle

Measuring Māori Health, Wellbeing, and Disability in Aotearoa Using a Web-Based Survey Methodology

by Tristram R. Ingham, Bernadette Jones, Meredith Perry, Martin von Randow, Barry Milne, Paula T. King, Linda W. Nikora, Andrew Sporle and Te Ao Mārama Study Group

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6797; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186797 - 21 Sep 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3666

Abstract

High-quality evidence on the prevalence and impact of health, wellbeing, and disability among Māori, and other Indigenous peoples, is crucial for mitigating health inequities. Current surveys are predominantly centred within a biomedical paradigm, with the constructs mismatched with Indigenous worldviews. We aimed to [...] Read more.

High-quality evidence on the prevalence and impact of health, wellbeing, and disability among Māori, and other Indigenous peoples, is crucial for mitigating health inequities. Current surveys are predominantly centred within a biomedical paradigm, with the constructs mismatched with Indigenous worldviews. We aimed to develop and deploy an accessible and culturally grounded survey exploring Māori health, wellbeing, and disability using a Kaupapa Māori Research methodology. An extensive codesign process with Māori community partners interrogated all aspects of the design to ensure the process and outcomes met the needs of Māori. A large-scale, nationally representative survey of people of Māori descent was conducted. We used a multi-modal deployment approach that included online and alternate methods of completion. Our analysis included a novel dual-weighting system to ensure generalisability of results to the national Māori population. This achieved a survey of 7230 participants, a sample size comparable with government-administered surveys. The response rate was 11.1%, with 7.3% opting for alternate methods. A high completion rate of 93.4% was observed. This approach demonstrated a high level of engagement, resulting in an unprecedented collection of Māori health, wellbeing, and disability data. This highlights the importance of Indigenous codesign for ensuring accessible and culturally appropriate survey methods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Inequalities in Socially Disadvantaged Communities: 2nd Edition)

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12 pages, 589 KB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in Food Consumption, BMI, and Body Composition in Youth in the US during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Nasreen Moursi, Marian Tanofsky-Kraff, Megan Parker, Lucy Loch, Bess Bloomer, Jennifer Te-Vazquez, Ejike Nwosu, Julia Lazareva, Shanna B. Yang, Sara Turner, Sheila Brady and Jack Yanovski

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6796; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186796 - 21 Sep 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2280

Abstract

Rates of childhood overweight/obesity have risen for decades; however, data show the prevalence increased at a faster rate during the COVID-19 pandemic. Pandemic-associated increases in youth’s body mass index (BMI; kg/m²) have been attributed to decreases in reported physical activity; few [...] Read more.

Rates of childhood overweight/obesity have risen for decades; however, data show the prevalence increased at a faster rate during the COVID-19 pandemic. Pandemic-associated increases in youth’s body mass index (BMI; kg/m²) have been attributed to decreases in reported physical activity; few studies have examined changes in food intake. We therefore examined changes in total energy, nutrient consumption, BMI, BMIz, and adiposity longitudinally over 3 years, comparing healthy youth aged 8–17 years assessed twice prior to the pandemic, to youth seen once before and once during the pandemic. The total energy intake and percent macronutrient consumption were assessed using a standardized, laboratory-based, buffet-style meal. Height and weight were measured and adiposity was collected via dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Generalized linear model univariate analyses investigated differences between groups. One-hundred-fifteen youth (15.6 + 2.8 years 47.8% female; 54.8% White) from the Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia greater metropolitan area participated. In this secondary analysis, neither changes in total energy intake (p = 0.52) nor changes in nutrient consumption were significantly different between the two groups (ps = 0.23–0.83). Likewise, changes in BMI, BMIz, and adiposity (ps = 0.95–0.25) did not differ by group. Further research should investigate food intake and body composition, comparing youth with and without overweight/obesity to better identify those at greatest risk of excess weight gain during the pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Role of Dietary Patterns in Preventing Obesity: Issues and Challenges)

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11 pages, 573 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dental Pain Medication Prescriptions in Minas Gerais, Brazil (2011–2021): A Time-Series Analysis

by Alex Junio Silva Cruz, Maria Auxiliadora Parreiras Martins, Victor Santos Batista, Henrique Pereira de Aguilar Penido, Jacqueline Silva Santos, Thiago Rezende dos Santos, Woosung Sohn, Lia Silva de Castilho and Mauro Henrique Nogueira Guimarães Abreu

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6795; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186795 - 21 Sep 2023

Viewed by 2447

Abstract

To describe trends of dentist-prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and analgesics, from January 2011 to December 2021, as well as to examine the relationship between these trends and characteristics of public oral health services in Minas Gerais, Brazil. In this time-series analysis, all [...] Read more.

To describe trends of dentist-prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and analgesics, from January 2011 to December 2021, as well as to examine the relationship between these trends and characteristics of public oral health services in Minas Gerais, Brazil. In this time-series analysis, all drugs were classified according to the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical classification system. Drugs categorized as NSAIDs (M01A), and other analgesics and antipyretics (N02B) were included for analysis. The outcome was the number of Defined Daily Doses (DDDs)/1000 inhabitants/year for NSAIDs and analgesics in each town. Covariates referred to characteristics of public oral health services, such as coverage, estimates of dental procedures, and frequency of toothache. Linear time-series regression models were used to determine the influence of covariates on the outcome. Overall, there were 58,482 prescriptions of NSAIDs recorded in thirty-eight towns, while 47,499 prescriptions of analgesics in forty-three towns. For each year, there was a 0.38 (p < 0.001), and 0.28 (p < 0.001) increase in the average log of DDD/1000 inhabitants/year for NSAIDs and analgesics, respectively. A positive association was detected between toothache (p < 0.001) and the prescription of NSAIDs. Over the eleven years, there was a general rising trend in the prescriptions. Toothache was the only characteristic of public oral health services associated with the prescription rates of NSAIDs, implying that as the frequency of toothaches increase, so do the prescriptions of NSAIDs in the studied towns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Associated with Oral Pain and Oral Health-Related Consequences)

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13 pages, 1638 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Food Literacy and Food Security through School Gardening in Rural and Regional Communities

by Timothy P. Holloway, Sisitha Jayasinghe, Lisa Dalton, Michelle L. Kilpatrick, Roger Hughes, Kira A. E. Patterson, Robert Soward, Kylie Burgess, Nuala M. Byrne, Andrew P. Hills and Kiran D. K. Ahuja

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6794; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186794 - 21 Sep 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4523

Abstract

A qualitative case study approach with in-depth, semi-structured interviews of key school staff, and student feedback was used to assess a school kitchen and garden program in the regional area of North-West Tasmania, Australia. A detailed program description was produced to conduct a [...] Read more.

A qualitative case study approach with in-depth, semi-structured interviews of key school staff, and student feedback was used to assess a school kitchen and garden program in the regional area of North-West Tasmania, Australia. A detailed program description was produced to conduct a realist evaluation with a Context-Mechanism-Outcome configuration, followed by a program theory evaluation through the construction of a retrospective program logic model. Dedicated kitchen and garden spaces, knowledgeable teachers committed to the program, provision of sufficient materials and consumables, and support from the school and community were found to be the basic requirements to establish a program. Additionally, it is essential to integrate both the kitchen and garden teaching components into the school curriculum. The positive outcomes (e.g., engagement, participation, knowledge, skills, behavioral change) of the program were dependent on the underlying factors, including dedicated support of school leadership, teaching staff, and the parent body for effective student engagement in the teaching spaces and for wider engagement from families and the community. The students’ feedback provided supporting evidence of increased food literacy with improvements in their understanding, abilities, and attitudes towards gardening, producing healthy food, and preparing food. This may further lead to enhanced food security for students’ families and the broader community. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

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23 pages, 4905 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Electrical Brain Activity of Healthy Volunteers Exposed to 3.5 GHz of 5G Signals within Environmental Levels: A Controlled–Randomised Study

by Layla Jamal, Lydia Yahia-Cherif, Laurent Hugueville, Paul Mazet, Philippe Lévêque and Brahim Selmaoui

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6793; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186793 - 21 Sep 2023

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5266

Abstract

Following the recent deployment of fifth-generation (5G) radio frequencies, several questions about their health impacts have been raised. Due to the lack of experimental research on this subject, the current study aimed to investigate the bio-physiological effects of a generated 3.5 GHz frequency. [...] Read more.

Following the recent deployment of fifth-generation (5G) radio frequencies, several questions about their health impacts have been raised. Due to the lack of experimental research on this subject, the current study aimed to investigate the bio-physiological effects of a generated 3.5 GHz frequency. For this purpose, the wake electroencephalograms (EEG) of 34 healthy volunteers were explored during two “real” and “sham” exposure sessions. The electromagnetic fields were antenna-emitted in an electrically shielded room and had an electrical field root-mean-square intensity of 2 V/m, corresponding to the current outdoor exposure levels. The sessions were a maximum of one week apart, and both contained an exposure period of approximately 26 min and were followed by a post-exposure period of 17 min. The power spectral densities (PSDs) of the beta, alpha, theta, and delta bands were then computed and corrected based on an EEG baseline period. This was acquired for 17 min before the subsequent phases were recorded under two separate conditions: eyes open (EO) and eyes closed (EC). A statistical analysis showed an overall non-significant change in the studied brain waves, except for a few electrodes in the alpha, theta, and delta spectra. This change was translated into an increase or decrease in the PSDs, in response to the EO and EC conditions. In conclusion, this studhy showed that 3.5 GHz exposure, within the regulatory levels and exposure parameters used in this protocol, did not affect brain activity in healthy young adults. Moreover, to our knowledge, this was the first laboratory-controlled human EEG study on 5G effects. It attempted to address society’s current concern about the impact of 5G exposure on human health at environmental levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Exposures and the Effects on Human Health)

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16 pages, 1210 KB

Open AccessArticle

Usability and Feasibility Testing of an Atrial Fibrillation Educational Website with Patients Referred to an Atrial Fibrillation Specialty Clinic

by Kathy L. Rush, Lindsay Burton, Cherisse L. Seaton, Peter Loewen, Brian P. O’Connor, Kendra Corman, Robyn Phillips, Lana Moroz and Jason G. Andrade

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6792; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186792 - 21 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2085

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to design, usability test, and explore the feasibility of a web-based educational platform/intervention for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) as part of their virtual AF care. Methods: Participants were patients attending a specialized AF clinic. The [...] Read more.

Background: The purpose of this study was to design, usability test, and explore the feasibility of a web-based educational platform/intervention for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) as part of their virtual AF care. Methods: Participants were patients attending a specialized AF clinic. The multiple mixed-methods design included website design, think-aloud usability test, 1-month unstructured pre-testing analysis using Google Analytics, follow-up interviews, and a non-randomized one-group feasibility test using pre/post online surveys and Google Analytics. Results: Usability testing participants (n = 2) guided adjustments for improving navigation. Pre-testing participants’ (n = 9) website activity averaged four sessions (SD = 2.6) at 10 (SD 8) minutes per session during a 1-month study period. In the feasibility test, 30 patients referred to AF specialty clinic care completed the baseline survey, and 20 of these completed the 6-month follow-up survey. A total of 19 patients accessed the website over the 6 months, and all 30 participants were sent email prompts containing information from the website. Health-related quality of life, treatment satisfaction, household activity, and AF knowledge scores were higher at follow-up than baseline. There was an overall downward trend in self-reported healthcare utilization at follow-up. Conclusions: Access to a credible education website for patients with AF has great potential to complement virtual and hybrid models of care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability: Challenges for Healthcare)

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16 pages, 391 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Association between Sleep Timing, Being Overweight and Meal and Snack Consumption in Children and Adolescents in Southern Brazil

by Denise Miguel Teixeira Roberto, Luciana Jeremias Pereira, Francilene Gracieli Kunradi Vieira, Patricia Faria Di Pietro, Maria Alice Altenburg de Assis and Patrícia de Fragas Hinnig

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6791; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186791 - 21 Sep 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2320

Abstract

Sleep timing is one of the dimensions of sleep that refers to the time of day when sleep occurs. It has been included in sleep-related research because of the potential associations between being overweight and the consumption of meals and snacks. This cross-sectional [...] Read more.

Sleep timing is one of the dimensions of sleep that refers to the time of day when sleep occurs. It has been included in sleep-related research because of the potential associations between being overweight and the consumption of meals and snacks. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate associations between sleep timing, meal and snack consumption and weight status in 1333 schoolchildren aged 7–14 years. The midpoint of sleep was used as a sleep timing measure obtained by the midpoint between bedtime and wake-up time, classified as Early, Intermediate, and Late. Schoolchildren in the Early group were less likely to be overweight (OR: 0.83, 95% CI 0.69; 0.99), and had higher odds of mid-morning snack consumption (OR: 1.95, 95% CI 1.56; 2.44) and lower probability to consume an evening snack (OR: 0.75, 95% CI 0.59; 0.94) compared with the Intermediate group. The Late group had lower odds of mid-morning snack consumption (OR: 0.67, 95% CI 0.55, 0.80) than the Intermediate group. The consumption of mid-morning and evening snacks was associated with the Early and Late midpoints of sleep. These results suggest that bedtime and wake-up time are relevant to consuming meals and snacks and may also be related to a greater probability of being overweight in children and adolescents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Child Welfare and Health Care)

22 pages, 652 KB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in Residential Greenspace and Birth Outcomes among Siblings: Differences by Maternal Race

by Samantha Gailey

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6790; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186790 - 21 Sep 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2168

Abstract

Growing research investigates the perinatal health benefits of greenspace in a mother’s prenatal environment. However, evidence of associations between residential greenspace and birth outcomes remains mixed, limiting the relevance this work holds for urban policy and greening interventions. Past research relies predominantly on [...] Read more.

Growing research investigates the perinatal health benefits of greenspace in a mother’s prenatal environment. However, evidence of associations between residential greenspace and birth outcomes remains mixed, limiting the relevance this work holds for urban policy and greening interventions. Past research relies predominantly on cross-sectional designs that are vulnerable to residential selection bias, and rarely tests effect modification by maternal race/ethnicity, which may contribute to heterogeneous findings. This study uses a rigorous, longitudinal sibling comparison design and maternal fixed effect analyses to test whether increases in maternal exposure to residential greenspace between pregnancies precede improved birth outcomes among non-Hispanic (NH) white (n = 247,285) and Black (n = 54,995) mothers (mean age = 28 years) who had at least two consecutive live births in California between 2005 and 2015. Results show that increases in residential greenspace correspond with higher birthweight (coef. = 75.49, 95% CI: 23.48, 127.50) among Black, but not white (coef. = −0.51, 95% CI: −22.90, 21.90), infants. Additional analyses suggest that prior evidence of perinatal benefits associated with residential greenspace among white mothers may arise from residential selection; no such bias is observed for Black mothers. Taken together, these findings support urban greening initiatives in historically under-resourced neighborhoods. Efforts to evenly distribute residential greenspace may reduce persistent racial disparities in birth outcomes, an important step towards promoting health equity across the life course. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural and Built Outdoor Environments and Children’s Health)

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2 pages, 250 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Metabolic Diseases—A Challenge for Public Health in the 21st Century

by Anna Garus-Pakowska

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6789; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186789 - 20 Sep 2023

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3414

Abstract

Metabolic diseases refer to a broad term that includes all diseases that result from disturbances in the body’s biochemical metabolism [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metabolic Diseases and Their Prevention)

10 pages, 373 KB

Open AccessArticle

Determining Medication Errors in an Adult Intensive Care Unit

by Renata da Nóbrega Souza de Castro, Lucas Barbosa de Aguiar, Cris Renata Grou Volpe, Calliandra Maria de Souza Silva, Izabel Cristina Rodrigues da Silva, Marina Morato Stival, Everton Nunes da Silva, Micheline Marie Milward de Azevedo Meiners and Silvana Schwerz Funghetto

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6788; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186788 - 20 Sep 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3732

Abstract

Introduction: Research addressing the costs of Medication errors (MEs) is still scarce despite issues related to patient safety having significant economic and health impacts, making it imperative to analyze the costs and adverse events related to MEs for a better patient, professional, and [...] Read more.

Introduction: Research addressing the costs of Medication errors (MEs) is still scarce despite issues related to patient safety having significant economic and health impacts, making it imperative to analyze the costs and adverse events related to MEs for a better patient, professional, and institutional safety. Aim: To identify the number of medication errors and verify whether this number was associated with increased hospitalization costs for patients in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Method: This retrospective cross-sectional cohort study evaluated secondary data from patients’ electronic medical records to compile variables, create a model, and survey hospitalization costs. The statistical analysis included calculating medication error rates, descriptive analysis, and simple and multivariate regression. Results: The omission error rate showed the highest number of errors per drug dose (59.8%) and total errors observed in the sample (55.31%), followed by the time error rate (26.97%; 24.95%). The omission error had the highest average when analyzing the entire hospitalization (170.40) and day of hospitalization (13.79). Hospitalization costs were significantly and positively correlated with scheduling errors, with an increase of BRL 121.92 (about USD $25.00) (95% CI 43.09; 200.74), and to prescription errors, with an increase of BRL 63.51 (about USD $3.00) (95% CI 29.93; 97.09). Conclusion: We observed an association between two types of medication errors and increased hospitalization costs in an adult ICU (scheduling and prescription errors). Full article

11 pages, 314 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mental Health Clinician Attitudes about Service User and Family Agency and Involvement in Recovery-Oriented Practice

by Janice Chisholm, Judy Hope, Ellie Fossey and Melissa Petrakis

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6787; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186787 - 20 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3067

Abstract

Background: Recovery-oriented practice (ROP) is a framework focusing on recovery through hope, choice, and meaning, to live with or without enduring symptoms and challenges. Aims: To examine clinicians’ attitudes about the involvement of service users and family or supporters in ROP. Methods: A [...] Read more.

Background: Recovery-oriented practice (ROP) is a framework focusing on recovery through hope, choice, and meaning, to live with or without enduring symptoms and challenges. Aims: To examine clinicians’ attitudes about the involvement of service users and family or supporters in ROP. Methods: A bespoke Qualtrics survey obtained views of mental health clinicians working in an Australian public mental health service about service user and family involvement in ROP, using a five-point Likert scale of agreement and free-text responses. Data were analysed with descriptive statistics and content analysis methods. Results: Two hundred and three clinicians completed the survey. Most (79%) clinicians agreed with the statement that service users want clinicians to use ROP principles, and the majority (63%) also ‘strongly believed’ that ROP made a difference to service users’ mental health outcomes. Only 15% ‘strongly agreed’ and 57% somewhat agreed with the statement that service users know what treatment is best for them, and only 20% of clinicians ‘strongly agreed’ that supporters of service users believed in and wanted ROP for their family member or friend. Future directions: This study adds to the literature on clinicians’ views about ROP and shows that although clinicians are supportive of ROP, they also express substantial ambivalence about whether service users and families know what treatment is best. For ROP implementation to be successful, workforce training needs to support clinicians to reflect on these views with service users and families, and to encourage supported decision making. Future studies should focus on changes in clinicians’ views and practice post ROP training. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Promoting Recovery in Mental Health—Perspectives and Experiences of Professionals and Service Users: 2nd Edition)

16 pages, 889 KB

Open AccessReview

Callous and Unemotional Traits as Precursors to the Development of Female Psychopathy

by Ana Raquel Cardoso, Maria João Costa, Ana Isabel Sani and Diana Moreira

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6786; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186786 - 20 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4185

Abstract

Objective: Conduct a systematic review concerning the literature that reflects whether the callous and unemotional traits present in childhood and/or adolescence are precursors in the development of female psychopathy in adulthood. Materials and Methods: A systematic review involved consulting three databases—EBSCO, the Web [...] Read more.

Objective: Conduct a systematic review concerning the literature that reflects whether the callous and unemotional traits present in childhood and/or adolescence are precursors in the development of female psychopathy in adulthood. Materials and Methods: A systematic review involved consulting three databases—EBSCO, the Web of Science, and PubMed—for peer-reviewed and quantitative studies within the period 2000–2023. Nine articles with quality of three and above were included. Results: The presence of callous and unemotional traits designates a group of youth that show characteristics associated with psychopathy, specifically when predicting a more severe and chronic pattern of antisocial behaviour. Children with high rates of callous and unemotional traits, who show symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in combination with severe conduct problems, are most likely to show features associated with psychopathy. The multidimensional psychopathy construct is considered a better predictor of future and stable antisocial behaviour than the callous and unemotional traits alone model. Conclusions: According to the studies selected, the callous and unemotional traits in childhood seem to be precursors of female psychopathy in adulthood, but only because of the way they seem to enhance conduct problems, disruptive behaviour disorders, and, as a possible outcome, delinquency and antisocial traits, which may be precursors of future psychopathy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Childhood and Adolescent Experience: Deviant Behaviors in Different Contexts)

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17 pages, 898 KB

Open AccessArticle

Knowledge, Attitude, Behavior Practices and Compliance of Workers Exposed to Respirable Dust in a Zambian Copper Mine

by Mwaba Sifanu, Thomas K. Taylor, Kennedy K. Kalebaila, Patrick Hayumbu, Lubinda Nabiwa and Stephanus J. L. Linde

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6785; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186785 - 20 Sep 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3195

Abstract

Work in the copper mining industry is often associated with exposure to respirable dust and respirable crystalline silica. This exposure has the potential to cause silicosis, an incurable occupational respiratory lung disease. This study aimed at establishing the relationship between knowledge, attitudes, work [...] Read more.

Work in the copper mining industry is often associated with exposure to respirable dust and respirable crystalline silica. This exposure has the potential to cause silicosis, an incurable occupational respiratory lung disease. This study aimed at establishing the relationship between knowledge, attitudes, work behavioral practices and compliance with safety standards and workers’ exposure to respirable dust. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted on 528 mine workers. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for the descriptives. Structural equation modeling (SEM) with latent variables and partial least squares (LVPLS) analysis were employed to determine the relationship among these variables. The results indicated that of the four hypotheses, two were supported, and two were rejected, showing that there is a significant relationship between exposure to respirable dust and work behavioral practices, as well as compliance with safety standards. Knowledge and attitudes toward respirable dust exposure did not significantly influence exposure. According to the results from the survey, positive work behavioral practices as well as compliance with safety standards were significantly associated with exposure to respirable dust. It is recommended that mines should focus on the miners’ work behavioral practices and compliance with safety standards. Full article

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11 pages, 804 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Mindset and Breathing Exercises on Physical and Mental Health in Persons with Spinal Cord Injury—A Pilot Feasibility Study

by Sonja de Groot, Frank W. L. Ettema, Christel M. C. van Leeuwen, Wendy J. Achterberg, Thomas W. J. Janssen and Sven P. Hoekstra

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6784; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186784 - 20 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 6546

Abstract

This study investigated the feasibility and efficacy of mindset and breathing exercises (Wim Hof Method (WHM)) on physical and mental health in persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). Ten individuals with SCI participated in this pilot study. These ten participants followed a 4-week [...] Read more.

This study investigated the feasibility and efficacy of mindset and breathing exercises (Wim Hof Method (WHM)) on physical and mental health in persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). Ten individuals with SCI participated in this pilot study. These ten participants followed a 4-week WHM intervention, with one weekly group session in the rehabilitation center and daily practice at home using the WHM app. An in-person exit-interview was conducted post-intervention to collect qualitative information on participants’ experiences, regarding the feasibility and effects of the intervention. Furthermore, tests and questionnaires were administered pre- and post-intervention to assess physical and mental health outcomes. Adherence to the weekly in-person meetings was excellent and no adverse events occurred. Physical and mental health outcomes in this small sample size showed some pre–post differences. This pilot feasibility study provides preliminary evidence supporting the feasibility and efficacy of the WHM, including mindset and breathing exercises, on physical and mental health of people with SCI. These results warrant a randomized-controlled trial, including cold exposure, of this novel intervention in people with SCI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation, Treatment, and Health Related Quality of Life)

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14 pages, 2510 KB

Open AccessArticle

Reaching the Frail Elderly for the Diagnosis and Management of Atrial Fibrillation—REAFEL

by Carsten Bamberg, Caroline Thorup Ladegaard, Mathias Aalling, Dorthea Marie Jensen, Christoffer Læssøe Madsen, Sadaf Kamil, Henrik Gudbergsen, Thomas Saxild, Michaela Louise Schiøtz, Julie Grew, Luana Sandoval Castillo, Iben Tousgaard, Rie Laurine Rosenthal Johansen, Jakob Eyvind Bardram, Anne Frølich and Helena Domínguez

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6783; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186783 - 19 Sep 2023

Viewed by 2093

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Frail elderly patients are exposed to suffering strokes if they do not receive timely anticoagulation to prevent stroke associated to atrial fibrillation (AF). Evaluation in the cardiological ambulatory can be cumbersome as it often requires repeated visits. AIM: To develop and implement [...] Read more.

BACKGROUND: Frail elderly patients are exposed to suffering strokes if they do not receive timely anticoagulation to prevent stroke associated to atrial fibrillation (AF). Evaluation in the cardiological ambulatory can be cumbersome as it often requires repeated visits. AIM: To develop and implement CardioShare, a shared-care model where primary care leads patient management, using a compact Holter monitor device with asynchronous remote support from cardiologists. METHODS: CardioShare was developed in a feasibility phase, tested in a pragmatic cluster randomization trial (primary care clinics as clusters), and its implementation potential was evaluated with an escalation test. Mixed methods were used to evaluate the impact of this complex intervention, comprising quantitative observations, semi-structured interviews, and workshops. RESULTS: Between February 2020 and December 2021, 314 patients (30% frail) were included, of whom 75% had AF diagnosed/not found within 13 days; 80% in both groups avoided referral to cardiologists. Patients felt safe and primary care clinicians satisfied. In an escalation test, 58 primary-care doctors evaluated 93 patients over three months, with remote support from four hospitals in the Capital Region of Denmark. CONCLUSIONS: CardioShare was successfully implemented for AF evaluation in primary care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vascular Disease and Health)

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10 pages, 1605 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploration of the Relationships between Men’s Healthy Life Expectancy in Japan and Regional Variables by Integrating Statistical Learning Methods

by Fumiya Sato and Keiko Nakamura

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6782; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186782 - 19 Sep 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2213

Abstract

A quantitative understanding of the relationship between comprehensive health levels, such as healthy life expectancy and their related factors, through a highly explanatory model is important in both health research and health policy making. In this study, we developed a regression model that [...] Read more.

A quantitative understanding of the relationship between comprehensive health levels, such as healthy life expectancy and their related factors, through a highly explanatory model is important in both health research and health policy making. In this study, we developed a regression model that combines multiple linear regression and a random forest model, exploring the relationship between men’s healthy life expectancy in Japan and regional variables from open sources at the city level as an illustrative case. Optimization of node-splitting in each decision tree was based on the total mean-squared error of multiple regression models in binary-split child nodes. Variations of standardized partial regression coefficients for each city were obtained as the ensemble of multiple trees and visualized on scatter plots. By considering them, interaction terms with piecewise linear functions were exploratorily introduced into a final multiple regression model. The plots showed that the relationship between the healthy life expectancy and the explanatory variables could differ depending on the cities’ characteristics. The procedure implemented here was suggested as a useful exploratory method for flexibly implementing interactions in multiple regression models while maintaining interpretability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Statistical Methods in Social and Environmental Epidemiology)

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12 pages, 1532 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) Boosting and Household Factors on Latrine Ownership in Siaya County, Kenya

by Job Wasonga, Kazuchiyo Miyamichi, Mami Hitachi, Rie Ozaki, Mohamed Karama, Kenji Hirayama and Satoshi Kaneko

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6781; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186781 - 18 Sep 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3846

Abstract

Community-led total sanitation (CLTS) is a widely used approach for enhancing sanitation practices. However, the impact of boosted CLTS on household latrine ownership has not been adequately evaluated. This study aims to investigate the factors associated with latrine possession among households, with a [...] Read more.

Community-led total sanitation (CLTS) is a widely used approach for enhancing sanitation practices. However, the impact of boosted CLTS on household latrine ownership has not been adequately evaluated. This study aims to investigate the factors associated with latrine possession among households, with a specific focus on single and CLTS-boosting implementation. A community-based repeated cross-sectional study was conducted in Siaya County, Kenya, involving 512 households at the baseline and 423 households at the follow-up. Data were analyzed using the mixed-effects logistic regression model. At the baseline, latrine possession was significantly associated with CLTS implementation (adjusted OR [aOR]: 3.01; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.41–6.44), literacy among households (aOR: 1.83; 95% CI: 1.12–2.98) and higher socioeconomic status (SES) (second level: aOR: 2.48; 95% CI:1.41–4.36, third level: aOR: 3.11; 95% CI: 1.76–5.50, fourth level: aOR: 10.20; 95% CI: 5.07–20.54). At follow-up, CLTS boosting (aOR: 7.92; 95% CI: 1.77–35.45) and a higher SES were associated with increased latrine ownership (second level: aOR: 2.04; 95% CI: 0.97–4.26, third level: aOR: 7.73; 95% CI: 2.98–20.03, fourth level: aOR: 9.93; 95% CI: 3.14–28.35). These findings highlight the significant role played by both single and CLST boosting in promoting universal latrine ownership and empowering vulnerable households to understand the importance of sanitation and open defecation-free practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition of Health and Well-Being in Vulnerable Communities)

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25 pages, 2701 KB

Open AccessArticle

Developing and Planning a Protocol for Implementing Health Promoting Animal Assisted Interventions (AAI) in a Tertiary Health Setting

by M. Anne Hamilton-Bruce, Janette Young, Carmel Nottle, Susan J. Hazel, Austin G. Milton, Sonya McDowall, Ben Mani and Simon Koblar

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6780; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186780 - 18 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3267

Abstract

The Ottawa Charter identifies that multiple levels of government, non-government, community, and other organizations should work together to facilitate health promotion, including in acute settings such as hospitals. We outline a method and protocol to achieve this, namely an Action Research (AR) framework [...] Read more.

The Ottawa Charter identifies that multiple levels of government, non-government, community, and other organizations should work together to facilitate health promotion, including in acute settings such as hospitals. We outline a method and protocol to achieve this, namely an Action Research (AR) framework for an Animal Assisted Intervention (AAI) in a tertiary health setting. Dogs Offering Support after Stroke (DOgSS) is an AR study at a major tertiary referral hospital. AAI has been reported to improve mood and quality of life for patients in hospitals. Our project objectives included applying for funding, developing a hospital dog visiting Action Research project, and, subsequent to ethics and governance approvals and finance, undertaking and reporting on the Action Research findings. The Action Research project aimed to investigate whether AAI (dog-visiting) makes a difference to the expressed mood of stroke patients and their informal supports (visiting carers/family/friends), and also the impact these visits have on hospital staff and volunteers, as well as the dog handler and dog involved. We provide our protocol for project management and operations, setting out how the project is conducted from conception to assess human and animal wellbeing and assist subsequent decision-making about introducing dog-visiting to the Stroke Unit. The protocol can be used or adapted by other organizations to try to avoid pitfalls and support health promotion in one of the five important action areas of the Ottawa Charter, namely that of reorienting health services. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue “Moving into the Future”: Reconceiving (WHO) Health Promotion to Encompass Human-Animal Relationships)

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11 pages, 324 KB

Open AccessArticle

Outdoor Time, Space, and Restrictions Imposed on Children’s Play in Australian Early Childhood Education and Care Settings during the COVID Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Survey from Educators’ Perspective

by Junjie Liu, Shirley Wyver, Muhammad Chutiyami and Helen Little

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6779; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186779 - 18 Sep 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4587

Abstract

The study aimed to investigate the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on children’s access to the outdoors in early childhood education and care (ECEC) settings. An online survey comprised of a standardised scale and questions used in previous related studies was completed by 143 [...] Read more.

The study aimed to investigate the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on children’s access to the outdoors in early childhood education and care (ECEC) settings. An online survey comprised of a standardised scale and questions used in previous related studies was completed by 143 early childhood educators across Australia. Participants were asked to report children’s time spent outdoors, access to outdoor space, and restrictions imposed on children’s play during the pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period. The survey responses were imported into SPSS for descriptive, correlation, and ordinal regression analyses. We examined the relationship between children’s outdoor time, space, restrictions imposed on children’s play, and educators’ characteristics, such as qualifications, professional development, and tolerance of risk or staff–child ratios during the pandemic in Australia. Most educators reported that children’s outdoor time and access to outdoor space remained the same compared to before the pandemic, while imposed restrictions on children’s outdoor play increased. The results of ordinal regressions indicated that educators with a higher tolerance of risk were less likely to impose additional restrictions on children’s outdoor play. The findings contribute to the understanding of how educators’ tolerance of risk influences children’s outdoor play opportunities and provide directions for future risk-reframing interventions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Children’s Play: Contributions to Health and Development)

13 pages, 646 KB

Open AccessArticle

“It Comes in Steps and Stages”: Experiences of People Living with HIV in Achieving Employment

by Serena Rajabiun, Joseph S. Lightner, Marena Sullivan, Jessica Flaherty, Chau Nguyen, Joseph Ramirez-Forcier and Janet J. Myers

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6778; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186778 - 18 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2097

Abstract

People living with HIV who are seeking jobs experience unique barriers to obtaining employment at the individual, group, and community levels. Traditional employment assistance programs can provide support but may not be tailored to some people living with HIV who often experience barriers [...] Read more.

People living with HIV who are seeking jobs experience unique barriers to obtaining employment at the individual, group, and community levels. Traditional employment assistance programs can provide support but may not be tailored to some people living with HIV who often experience barriers to work related to their social needs (such as housing instability) or their lack of consistent engagement in the workforce. To understand how people living with HIV return to work, in-depth interviews were conducted with 43 participants enrolled in interventions coordinating HIV care with housing and employment services at eight sites across the US. Four themes emerged on strategies to increase employment: (1) assessing and responding to employment needs that align with their socio-economic environment; (2) using social networks among family and friends for referrals and support; (3) engaging with navigators who are able to connect clients to skills building opportunities and job resources; and (4) addressing the system barriers such as helping with unmet basic needs (e.g. transportation), finding employers who can accommodate workers with income limits associated with public benefits, and helping immigrants, transgender individuals, and people experiencing homelessness secure legal documentsthat facilitate entry into employment by reducing stigmatized identities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Building Integrated and Coordinated Health Systems: Addressing the Social Determinants of Health)

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11 pages, 1001 KB

Open AccessArticle

Satisfied with Life? The Protective Function of Life Satisfaction in the Relationship between Perceived Stress and Negative Mental Health Outcomes

by Anita Padmanabhanunni, Tyrone B. Pretorius and Serena Ann Isaacs

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6777; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186777 - 18 Sep 2023

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 5849

Abstract

Life satisfaction is a key index of well-being, yet few studies have examined its role as a protective factor in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The current study expands the research in this area through an examination of the role of life [...] Read more.

Life satisfaction is a key index of well-being, yet few studies have examined its role as a protective factor in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The current study expands the research in this area through an examination of the role of life satisfaction in the relationship between perceived stress and negative indices of mental health. Participants were university students (N = 322) who completed the Perceived Stress Scale, the Satisfaction with Life Scale, and short forms of the trait scale of the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Center for Epidemiological Depression Scale, and the Beck Hopelessness Scale. The results indicate that life satisfaction had a health-sustaining effect on indices of well-being. It also moderated the relationship between perceived stress, on the one hand, and anxiety and hopelessness, on the other hand. Further, life satisfaction played a partial mediating role in the relationship between perceived stress and indices of mental health. The findings suggest that life satisfaction could be a protective factor in the context of stressful life events. Cultivating life satisfaction through mindfulness training and the enhancement of gratitude could potentially sustain mental health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Focusing on the Cognitive Component of Subjective Well-Being: The Relationship between Life Satisfaction and Psychological Distress)

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11 pages, 312 KB

Open AccessCase Report

An Individual’s Lived Experiences of Taking Cannabis-Based Medicinal Products (CBMPs) to Treat Anxiety

by Samantha Hurn

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6776; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186776 - 18 Sep 2023

Viewed by 3297

Abstract

This report documents the case of a patient (the author) participating in a clinical trial of medical cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.)—the Sapphire Access Scheme, run by the Sapphire Medical Clinic as part of the UK Medical Cannabis Registry—to explore the impacts of [...] Read more.

This report documents the case of a patient (the author) participating in a clinical trial of medical cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.)—the Sapphire Access Scheme, run by the Sapphire Medical Clinic as part of the UK Medical Cannabis Registry—to explore the impacts of cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) on anxiety. For most of my life, I have experienced often very serious bouts of poor mental health arising, in part, from childhood abuse, and have been diagnosed with several mental health conditions which constitute disabilities. I have received various conventional treatments and multiple alternative therapies. However, none of these have enabled me to consistently manage my conditions long-term, and I often suffer relapses. As part of the Sapphire Access Scheme, I complete regular quantitative questionnaires regarding the impacts of the CBMPs on my anxiety and have also obtained the clinic’s permission to qualitatively document and write up the impacts of CBMPs on my mental health. Here, I present a preliminary autoethnographic exploration of my lived experiences of CBMP use over the first four months of the trial, which show that even within such a short space of time, CBMPs have had a positive impact on treating what had previously been treatment-refractive chronic anxiety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Effects of Cannabis Use)

10 pages, 366 KB

Open AccessArticle

Moderating Effects of Emotional Recognition Competency in Rejective Parenting and Adolescent Depression and Aggression

by Jaeeun Shin and Sung Man Bae

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6775; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186775 - 18 Sep 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2240

Abstract

Rejective parenting is a major antecedent of emotional instability and aggressive behavioral problems. Previous studies have reported that emotional problems, such as depression, anxiety, aggression, and conduct problems in children and adolescents, improve through interventions that enhance emotional recognition competency. In this study, [...] Read more.

Rejective parenting is a major antecedent of emotional instability and aggressive behavioral problems. Previous studies have reported that emotional problems, such as depression, anxiety, aggression, and conduct problems in children and adolescents, improve through interventions that enhance emotional recognition competency. In this study, we explored whether the emotional recognition ability levels of individual adolescents moderated the pathway of negative parenting on aggression mediated by depression The moderated mediating effect of emotional recognition competency was investigated through examining 2265 first-year high school students using the 2021 data from the Korean Children and Youth Panel Survey 2018. There was no significant moderating effect on the direct pathway from rejective parenting to aggression. The moderating effect of emotional recognition competency on the indirect pathway leading to aggression through depression in rejective parenting was significant. These results suggest that the ability to correctly understand signals related to the emotions of others can play an important role in reducing depression and aggressive behavior by reducing conflict with people around them and experiencing more support. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Adolescents)

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26 pages, 6064 KB

Open AccessArticle

Environment Degradation, Health Threats, and Legality at the Artisanal Small-Scale Gold Mining Sites in Indonesia

by Ami A. Meutia, Dianto Bachriadi and Nurfitri Abdul Gafur

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6774; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186774 - 17 Sep 2023

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 8478

Abstract

Artisanal Small-scale Gold Mining (ASGM) activities, despite offering numerous economic incentives, inflict negative impacts on the environment and public health due to the use of mercury or cyanide. This study aims to compare three ASGM locations in Indonesia in terms of environmental impacts [...] Read more.

Artisanal Small-scale Gold Mining (ASGM) activities, despite offering numerous economic incentives, inflict negative impacts on the environment and public health due to the use of mercury or cyanide. This study aims to compare three ASGM locations in Indonesia in terms of environmental impacts and potential health problems in the community. As part of this research, field surveys at three ASGM illegal locations with different conditions, observations, literature studies, and interviews with the community and stakeholders were conducted. At each of the survey sites, the potential threat to public health due to the use of mercury was determined to be high. Additionally, many of the environmental impacts detected were deemed to have reached a high-alert stage, in some cases even posing a level of extreme danger. Based on these results, it has become clear that a form of mining management which reduces the negative impacts on the surrounding environment and community health is needed. The suggestions put forward in this paper, including the call for greater control of ASGM, may also be applied in other developing countries which suffer from similar problems and conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) Related Environmental and Health Problems: Second Edition)

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17 pages, 2837 KB

Open AccessArticle

Design of Innovative Clothing for Pressure Injury Prevention: End-User Evaluation in a Mixed-Methods Study

by Anabela Salgueiro-Oliveira, Anderson da Silva Rêgo, Paulo Santos-Costa, Rafael A. Bernardes, Luísa Filipe, Liliana B. Sousa, Rochelne Barboza, Miguel Carvalho, Maria Bouçanova, Maria Clara Ferreira da Graça Lopes, João A. Apóstolo and Pedro Parreira

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6773; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186773 - 17 Sep 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3762

Abstract

The global relevance of pressure injury (PI) prevention technologies arise from their impact on the quality of life of people with limited mobility and the costs associated with treating these preventable injuries. The purpose of this mixed methods study is to evaluate the [...] Read more.

The global relevance of pressure injury (PI) prevention technologies arise from their impact on the quality of life of people with limited mobility and the costs associated with treating these preventable injuries. The purpose of this mixed methods study is to evaluate the design of a prototype integrating Smart Health Textiles for PI prevention based on feedback from specialist nurses who care for individuals who are prone to or have PIs. This is a mixed methods study. A structured questionnaire was conducted as part of an evaluation of a prototype garment for the prevention of PIs. This questionnaire was applied during the evaluation of the prototype and afterwards focus group discussions were held with experts. Descriptive statistics techniques were used to analyze the data and thematic and integrated content analysis was conducted through concomitant triangulation. Nineteen nurses took part, aged 30 to 39 years (52.6%) and with 12.31 ± 8.96 years of experience. Participants showed that the prototype required more manipulation and physical effort, which interfered its usefulness, in addition to presenting difficulties with the openings and the material of the closure system, which interfered with the ease of use and learning. Overall satisfaction with the product was moderate, with some areas for improvement found, such as satisfaction, recommendations to colleagues, and pleasantness of use. It is concluded that areas for improvement have been found in all dimensions, including in the design of openings and the choice of materials. These findings supply significant insights for improving clothing to meet the needs of healthcare professionals and patients. Full article

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13 pages, 458 KB

Open AccessArticle

Improving Purpose in Life in School Settings

by Chiara Ruini, Elisa Albieri, Fedra Ottolini and Francesca Vescovelli

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6772; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186772 - 17 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2539

Abstract

Background and aim: The dimension of purpose in life (PiL) is one of the core features of eudaimonia and plays a crucial role in developmental settings. However, few studies have examined purpose in life in younger generations and verified if it is amenable [...] Read more.

Background and aim: The dimension of purpose in life (PiL) is one of the core features of eudaimonia and plays a crucial role in developmental settings. However, few studies have examined purpose in life in younger generations and verified if it is amenable to improvements following a wellbeing-promoting intervention. The aim of the present investigation is to explore correlates and predictors of purpose in life in school children and to test if it can be ameliorated after school-based wellbeing interventions. Methods: A total of 614 students were recruited in various schools in Northern Italy. Of these, 456 belonged to junior high and high schools and were randomly assigned to receive a protocol of School Well-Being Therapy (WBT) or a psychoeducational intervention (controls). A total of 158 students were enrolled in elementary schools and received a positive narrative intervention based on fairytales or were randomly assigned to controlled conditions. All students were assessed pre- and post- intervention with Ryff scales of eudaimonic wellbeing (short version) and with other self-report measures of anxiety, depression and somatization. Additionally, the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was administered to their schoolteachers as observed–rated evaluation. Results: In both elementary and high schools, purpose in life after the intervention was predicted by initial depressive symptoms and by group assignment (positive interventions vs. controls). In older students, PiL was predicted by female gender and anxiety levels, while no specific strengths identified by teachers were associated with PiL. Conclusions: PiL plays an important and strategic role in developmental settings, where students can develop skills and capacities to set meaningful goals in life. Depressive symptoms and anxiety can be obstacles to developing PiL in students, while positive school-based interventions can promote this core dimension of eudaimonia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Thinking on Psychological Health: Find Purpose and Meaning in Life)

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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health, Volume 20, Issue 18 (September-2 2023) – 90 articles

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