International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

10 pages, 1763 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Developing a Water Quality Index (WQI) for an Irrigation Dam

by Celia De La Mora-Orozco^1,*

, Hugo Flores-Lopez¹, Hector Rubio-Arias², Alvaro Chavez-Duran¹ and Jesus Ochoa-Rivero³

¹ National Research Institute for Forestry, Agriculture and Animal Production, Km 8 Tepatitlan-Lagos de Moreno, Jalisco, 47600 Tepatitlan de Morelos, Jalisco, Mexico

² Faculty of Animal Science and Ecology of the Autonomous University of Chihuahua, Periferico Francisco R. Almada, km 1, Carretera Chihuahua-Cuauhtémoc, Colonia Zootecnia, 31031 Chihuahua, Mexico

³ Experimental Center La Campana, National Research Institute on Forestry, Agriculture and Animal Production, Km 33.3 Carretera Chihuahua-Ojinaga, Aldama, 32910 Chihuahua, Mexico

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 439; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050439 - 29 Apr 2017

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 7402

Abstract

Pollution levels have been increasing in water ecosystems worldwide. A water quality index (WQI) is an available tool to approximate the quality of water and facilitate the work of decision-makers by grouping and analyzing numerous parameters with a single numerical classification system. The [...] Read more.

Pollution levels have been increasing in water ecosystems worldwide. A water quality index (WQI) is an available tool to approximate the quality of water and facilitate the work of decision-makers by grouping and analyzing numerous parameters with a single numerical classification system. The objective of this study was to develop a WQI for a dam used for irrigation of about 5000 ha of agricultural land. The dam, La Vega, is located in Teuchitlan, Jalisco, Mexico. Seven sites were selected for water sampling and samples were collected in March, June, July, September, and December 2014 in an initial effort to develop a WQI for the dam. The WQI methodology, which was recommended by the Mexican National Water Commission (CNA), was used. The parameters employed to calculate the WQI were pH, electrical conductivity (EC), dissolved oxygen (DO), total dissolved solids (TDS), total hardness (TH), alkalinity (Alk), total phosphorous (TP), Cl⁻, NO₃, SO₄, Ca, Mg, K, B, As, Cu, and Zn. No significant differences in WQI values were found among the seven sampling sites along the dam. However, seasonal differences in WQI were noted. In March and June, water quality was categorized as poor. By July and September, water quality was classified as medium to good. Quality then decreased, and by December water quality was classified as medium to poor. In conclusion, water treatment must be applied before waters from La Vega dam reservoir can be used for irrigation or other purposes. It is recommended that the water quality at La Vega dam is continually monitored for several years in order to confirm the findings of this short-term study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Proceedings from the 13th International Symposium on Recent Advances in Environmental Health Research)

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10 pages, 313 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Taekwondo Training on Peripheral Neuroplasticity-Related Growth Factors, Cerebral Blood Flow Velocity, and Cognitive Functions in Healthy Children: A Randomized Controlled Trial

by Su-Youn Cho¹, Wi-Young So²

and Hee-Tae Roh^3,*

¹ Department of Taekwondo, Youngsan University, Yangsan-si 50510, Korea

² Sports and Health Care Major, College of Humanities and Arts, Korea National University of Transportation, Chungju-si 27469, Korea

³ Department of Physical Education, College of Arts and Physical Education, Dong-A University, Busan 49315, Korea

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 454; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050454 - 25 Apr 2017

Cited by 50 | Viewed by 7222

Abstract

Although regular Taekwondo (TKD) training has been reported to be effective for improving cognitive function in children, the mechanism underlying this improvement remains unclear. The purpose of the present study was to observe changes in neuroplasticity-related growth factors in the blood, assess cerebral [...] Read more.

Although regular Taekwondo (TKD) training has been reported to be effective for improving cognitive function in children, the mechanism underlying this improvement remains unclear. The purpose of the present study was to observe changes in neuroplasticity-related growth factors in the blood, assess cerebral blood flow velocity, and verify the resulting changes in children’s cognitive function after TKD training. Thirty healthy elementary school students were randomly assigned to control (n = 15) and TKD (n = 15) groups. The TKD training was conducted for 60 min at a rating of perceived exertion (RPE) of 11–15, 5 times per week, for 16 weeks. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels were measured by blood sampling before and after the training, and the cerebral blood flow velocities (peak systolic [MCAs], end diastolic [MCAd], mean cerebral blood flow velocities [MCAm], and pulsatility index [PI]) of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) were measured using Doppler ultrasonography. For cognitive function assessment, Stroop Color and Word Tests (Word, Color, and Color-Word) were administered along with other measurements. The serum BDNF, VEGF, and IGF-1 levels and the Color-Word test scores among the sub-factors of the Stroop Color and Word Test scores were significantly higher in the TKD group after the intervention (p < 0.05). On the other hand, no statistically significant differences were found in any factors related to cerebral blood flow velocities, or in the Word test and Color test scores (p > 0.05). Thus, 16-week TKD training did not significantly affect cerebral blood flow velocities, but the training may have been effective in increasing children’s cognitive function by inducing an increase in the levels of neuroplasticity-related growth factors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

8 pages, 284 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exclusive Breastfeeding Practice and Its Association among Mothers of under 5 Children in Kwango District, DR Congo

by Sarita Dhakal^1,2, Tae Ho Lee^1,2 and Eun Woo Nam^1,2,*

¹ Yonsei Global Health Center, Yonsei University, Wonju, Gangwon-do 26493, Korea

² Department of Health Administration, Graduate School, Yonsei University, Wonju, Gangwon-do 26493, Korea

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 455; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050455 - 25 Apr 2017

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 6897

Abstract

The benefit of the breastfeeding has been well-established. In comparison to partial breast feeding, exclusive breastfeeding has even more benefits. The aim of this study was to identify the factors associated with breastfeeding exclusivity during the first 6 months of life in order [...] Read more.

The benefit of the breastfeeding has been well-established. In comparison to partial breast feeding, exclusive breastfeeding has even more benefits. The aim of this study was to identify the factors associated with breastfeeding exclusivity during the first 6 months of life in order to better target public health interventions in this community towards healthier infant nutrition and address child mortality in this population. A cross-sectional survey among 1145 random households was conducted in the Kwango district of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) during 2 November 2015 to 13 November 2015. Women of reproductive age from 15–49 years and having less than 5 years old child were selected for the study. Chi-squared test and bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed using SPSS. A major finding of this study is 49.2% of the mothers are exclusively breastfeeding their children, and marital status, literacy, place of delivery, knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding and access to radio are the key indicators for exclusive breastfeeding. Exclusive breastfeeding rate is almost equivalent to the national prevalence rate for the DRC. Providing adequate knowledge to raise awareness of exclusive breast feeding and increase involvement of health care providers in enhancing knowledge through antenatal care and during delivery and postnatal care will be the best approaches to increase exclusive breastfeeding practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

12 pages, 1247 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Levels and Distribution of Pollutants in the Waters of an Aquatic Ecosystem in Northern Mexico

by Jesús Manuel Ochoa-Rivero¹

, Ana Victoria Reyes-Fierro², Ma. Del Rosario Peralta-Pérez², Francisco Javier Zavala-Díaz de la Serna², Lourdes Ballinas-Casarrubias², Ivan Salmerón², Héctor Rubio-Arias³ and Beatriz A. Rocha-Gutiérrez^2,*

¹ Sitio Experimental la Campana, CIRNOC, Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias (INIFAP), Km. 33.3 Carretera Chihuahua-Ojinaga. Aldama, Chihuahua C.P. 32910, Mexico

² Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua, Campus Universitario #2, Circuito Universitario, Chihuahua, Chihuahua C.P. 31125, Mexico

³ Facultad de Zootecnia y Ecología, Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua, Periférico. R. Almada, km. 1. Chihuahua, Chihuahua C.P. 31453, Mexico

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 456; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050456 - 25 Apr 2017

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 6174

Abstract

The availability of good quality water resources is essential to ensure healthy crops and livestock. The objective of this study was to evaluate the level of pollution in Bustillos Lagoon in northern Mexico. Physical-chemical parameters like sodium, chloride, sulfate, electrical conductivity, nitrates, and [...] Read more.

The availability of good quality water resources is essential to ensure healthy crops and livestock. The objective of this study was to evaluate the level of pollution in Bustillos Lagoon in northern Mexico. Physical-chemical parameters like sodium, chloride, sulfate, electrical conductivity, nitrates, and the pesticide dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) were analyzed to determine the water quality available in the lagoon. Although DDT has been banned in several countries, it is still used for agricultural purposes in Mexico and its presence in this area had not been analyzed previously. Bustillos Lagoon was divided into three zones for the evaluation: (1) industrial; (2) communal lands; and (3) agricultural. The highest concentrations of sodium (2360 mg/L) and SAR (41 meq/L) reported in the industrial zone are values exceeding the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) irrigation water quality guidelines. DDT and its metabolites were detected in all of the 21 sites analyzed, in the agricultural zone ∑DDTs = 2804 ng/mL, this level is much higher than those reported for other water bodies in Mexico and around the world where DDT has been used heavily. The water in the communal zone is the least contaminated, but can only be recommended for irrigation of plants with high stress tolerance and not for crops. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Proceedings from the 13th International Symposium on Recent Advances in Environmental Health Research)

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8 pages, 1029 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Designing Fit for Purpose Health and Social Services for Ageing Populations

by Jean Woo

CUHK Jockey Club Institute of Aging and Department of Medicine & Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 457; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050457 - 25 Apr 2017

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 9010

Abstract

Population ageing is occurring in all countries, regardless of the level of economic development. While the rising burden of chronic diseases and disabilities as a consequence of this demographic transition is well recognized, the increasing prevalence of geriatric syndromes as a public health [...] Read more.

Population ageing is occurring in all countries, regardless of the level of economic development. While the rising burden of chronic diseases and disabilities as a consequence of this demographic transition is well recognized, the increasing prevalence of geriatric syndromes as a public health issue is not as well recognized. Recently the World Health Organization’s World Health and Ageing Report emphasized functional ability as an important outcome for aging populations, highlighting the concept of raising intrinsic capacity throughout the life course. The complementary perspective is the prevention of frailty, which has physical, cognitive, social and psychological dimensions. Therefore, services for older people should encompass medical as well as social components. The need and evolution for a transition in health and social services in Hong Kong, a special administrative region of China which has a population with the world’s highest life expectancy, is presented as an example of how one developed economy attempts to meet the challenges of population ageing. There is a need to shift to integrated care in the community instead of specialty dominated hospital care, and to establish regular activities in the community to adopt and maintain a lifestyle that reduces frailty and disability (or promotes intrinsic capacity). A top down approach with financial incentives, together with public education to help drive policy changes, are key drivers of change. It is expected that there will be much heterogeneity between different countries in terms of barriers and facilitators, such that each country needs to document their needs and design appropriate services. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ageing Well: The Role of Age-Friendly Environments)

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12 pages, 782 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Sleep and Body Weight: A Panel Data Model Based on a Retrospective Longitudinal Cohort of Chinese Infants

by Tingting Sha, Yan Yan^*, Xiao Gao, Shiting Xiang, Guangyu Zeng, Shiping Liu and Qiong He

Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 458; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050458 - 25 Apr 2017

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6037

Abstract

The focus of this article is on sleep duration and sleep problems in infants and their association with body weight. A retrospective birth cohort of 519 infants was enrolled in a community-based study conducted in Changsha, China. Infant weight and other health-related information [...] Read more.

The focus of this article is on sleep duration and sleep problems in infants and their association with body weight. A retrospective birth cohort of 519 infants was enrolled in a community-based study conducted in Changsha, China. Infant weight and other health-related information were collected during regular standard checkups at the Community Health Service Centers when infants were 1, 3, 6, 8, and 12 months old. The sleep duration and sleep problems of infants were assessed by maternal self-reports. Panel data model was used to evaluate the association of sleep duration and sleep problems with infant body weight. Significant relevance between self-reported sleep duration and weight of infants has been reported in the literature tested by the fixed effects model (p < 0.01). However, this study indicated that sleep problems of infants had no effect on their weight (p = 0.151), after adjusting feeding patterns and socioeconomic factors of their families. This paper argues that, as a potentially modifiable risk factor, infant sleep duration deserves more attention from their parents and families in order to prevent and control overweight or obesity in infants as well as reducing the incidence of obesity in adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Health Behavior and Public Health)

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14 pages, 303 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Immunization Strategies Targeting Newly Arrived Migrants in Non-EU Countries of the Mediterranean Basin and Black Sea

by Cristina Giambi^1,*, Martina Del Manso¹, Maria Grazia Dente¹

, Christian Napoli²

, Carmen Montaño-Remacha³, Flavia Riccardo¹, Silvia Declich¹ and Network for the control of cross-border health threats in the Mediterranean Basin and Black Sea for the ProVacMed project⁴

¹ National Center for Epidemiology, Surveillance and Health Promotion, National Institute of Health (Istituto Superiore di Sanità, ISS), viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy

² Department of Medical Surgical Sciences and Traslational Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Via di Grottarossa, 1035/1039, 00189 Rome, Italy

³ Department of Epidemiology, Andalusian Regional Ministry of Health, Avenida de la innovaciòn s/n, 41020 Sevilla, Spain

⁴ Network for the Control of Cross-Border Health Threats in the Mediterranean Basin and Black Sea for the ProVacMed Project—Coordination Centre, National Institute of Health (Istituto Superiore di Sanità, ISS), viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 459; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050459 - 25 Apr 2017

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 7667

Abstract

Background: The World Health Organization recommends that host countries ensure appropriate vaccinations to refugees, asylum seekers and migrants. However, information on vaccination strategies targeting migrants in host countries is limited. Methods: In 2015–2016 we carried out a survey among national experts [...] Read more.

Background: The World Health Organization recommends that host countries ensure appropriate vaccinations to refugees, asylum seekers and migrants. However, information on vaccination strategies targeting migrants in host countries is limited. Methods: In 2015–2016 we carried out a survey among national experts from governmental bodies of 15 non-EU countries of the Mediterranean and Black Sea in order to document and share national vaccination strategies targeting newly arrived migrants. Results: Four countries reported having regulations/procedures supporting the immunization of migrants at national level, one at sub-national level and three only targeting specific population groups. Eight countries offer migrant children all the vaccinations included in their national immunization schedule; three provide only selected vaccinations, mainly measles and polio vaccines. Ten and eight countries also offer selected vaccinations to adolescents and adults respectively. Eight countries provide vaccinations at the community level; seven give priority vaccines in holding centres or at entry sites. Data on administered vaccines are recorded in immunization registries in nine countries. Conclusions: Although differing among countries, indications for immunizing migrants are in place in most of them. However, we cannot infer from our findings whether those strategies are currently functioning and whether barriers to their implementation are being faced. Further studies focusing on these aspects are needed to develop concrete and targeted recommendations for action. Since migrants are moving across countries, development of on-line registries and cooperation between countries could allow keeping track of administered vaccines in order to appropriately plan immunization series and avoid unnecessary vaccinations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Refugee Health)

11 pages, 578 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hyponatremia Is Associated with Worse Outcomes from Fall Injuries in the Elderly

by Spencer C. H. Kuo¹, Pao-Jen Kuo², Cheng-Shyuan Rau³, Shao-Chun Wu⁴

, Shiun-Yuan Hsu¹ and Ching-Hua Hsieh^1,*

¹ Division of Trauma Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Niao-Song District, Kaohsiung City 833, Taiwan

² Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung City 833, Taiwan

³ Department of Neurosurgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung City 833, Taiwan

⁴ Department of Anesthesiology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung City 833, Taiwan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 460; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050460 - 26 Apr 2017

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 5600

Abstract

Background: Hyponatremia has been proposed as a contributor to falls in the elderly, which have become a major global issue with the aging of the population. This study aimed to assess the clinical presentation and outcomes of elderly patients with hyponatremia admitted [...] Read more.

Background: Hyponatremia has been proposed as a contributor to falls in the elderly, which have become a major global issue with the aging of the population. This study aimed to assess the clinical presentation and outcomes of elderly patients with hyponatremia admitted due to fall injuries in a Level I trauma center. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed data obtained from the Trauma Registry System for trauma admissions from January 2009 through December 2014. Hyponatremia was defined as a serum sodium level <135 mEq/L, and only patients who had sustained a fall at ground level (<1 m) were included. We used Chi-square tests, Student t-tests, and Mann-Whitney U tests to compare elderly patients (age ≥65 years) with hyponatremia (n = 492) to those without (n = 2002), and to adult patients (age 20–64 years) with hyponatremia (n = 125). Results: Significantly more elderly patients with hyponatremia presented to the emergency department (ED) due to falls compared to elderly patients without hyponatremia (73.7% vs. 52.6%; OR: 2.5, 95% CI: 2.10–3.02; p < 0.001). Elderly patients with hyponatremia presented with a worse outcome, measured by significantly higher odds of intubation (OR: 2.4, 95% CI: 1.15–4.83; p = 0.025), a longer in-hospital length of stay (LOS) (11 days vs. 9 days; p < 0.001), higher proportion of intensive care unit (ICU) admission (20.9% vs. 16.2%; OR: 1.4, 95% CI: 1.07–1.76; p = 0.013), and higher mortality (OR: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.53–3.96; p < 0.001), regardless of adjustment by Injury Severity Scores (ISS) (AOR: 2.4, 95% CI: 1.42–4.21; p = 0.001). Conclusions: Our results show that hyponatremia is associated with worse outcome from fall-related injuries in the elderly, with an increased ISS, longer LOS, and a higher risk of death. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

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16 pages, 569 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association of Long-Term Near-Highway Exposure to Ultrafine Particles with Cardiovascular Diseases, Diabetes and Hypertension

by Yu Li¹

, Kevin J. Lane^2,3, Laura Corlin⁴

, Allison P. Patton^4,5

, John L. Durant⁴

, Mohan Thanikachalam⁶, Mark Woodin⁴, Molin Wang^7,8,9 and Doug Brugge^4,6,10,*

¹ Department of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA

² Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA

³ Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA

⁴ Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155, USA

⁵ Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA

⁶ Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA

⁷ Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA

⁸ Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA

⁹ Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA

¹⁰ Jonathan M. Tisch College of Civic Life, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 461; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050461 - 26 Apr 2017

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 7526

Abstract

Ultrafine particle (UFP) concentrations are elevated near busy roadways, however, their effects on prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and hypertension are not well understood. To investigate these associations, data on demographics, diseases, medication use, and time of activities were collected by in-home surveys [...] Read more.

Ultrafine particle (UFP) concentrations are elevated near busy roadways, however, their effects on prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and hypertension are not well understood. To investigate these associations, data on demographics, diseases, medication use, and time of activities were collected by in-home surveys for 704 participants in three pairs of near-highway and urban background neighborhoods in and near Boston (MA, USA). Body mass index (BMI) was measured for a subset of 435 participants. Particle number concentration (PNC, a measure of UFP) was collected by mobile monitoring in each area. Intra-neighborhood spatial-temporal regression models (approximately 20 m resolution) were used to estimate hourly ambient PNC at the residences of participants. We used participant time activity information to adjust annual average residential PNC values and assign individualized time activity adjusted annual average PNC exposures (TAA-PNC). Using multivariate logistic regression models, we found an odds ratio (OR) of 1.35 (95% CI: 0.83, 2.22) of TAA-PNC with stroke and ischemic heart diseases (S/IHD), an OR of 1.14 (95% CI: 0.81, 1.62) with hypertension, and an OR of 0.71 (95% CI: 0.46, 1.10) for diabetes. A subset analysis controlling for BMI produced slightly stronger associations for S/IHD (OR = 1.61, 95% CI: 0.88, 2.92) and hypertension (OR = 1.28, 95% CI: 0.81, 2.02), and no association with diabetes (OR = 1.09, 95% CI = 0.61, 1.96). Further research is needed with larger sample sizes and longitudinal follow-up. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Toxicology, Exposure Assessment and Epidemiology of Primary and Secondary Ultrafine Particles)

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14 pages, 5414 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Land Use on PM_2.5 Pollution in a Representative City of Middle China

by Haiou Yang^1,2,3, Wenbo Chen^2,* and Zhaofeng Liang²

¹ College of Forestry, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China

² Key Laboratory of Landscape and Environment, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China

³ College of Tourism and Territorial Resources, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang 332005, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 462; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050462 - 26 Apr 2017

Cited by 64 | Viewed by 6596

Abstract

Fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) pollution has become one of the greatest urban issues in China. Studies have shown that PM_2.5 pollution is strongly related to the land use pattern at the micro-scale and optimizing the land use pattern has been [...] Read more.

Fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) pollution has become one of the greatest urban issues in China. Studies have shown that PM_2.5 pollution is strongly related to the land use pattern at the micro-scale and optimizing the land use pattern has been suggested as an approach to mitigate PM_2.5 pollution. However, there are only a few researches analyzing the effect of land use on PM_2.5 pollution. This paper employed land use regression (LUR) models and statistical analysis to explore the effect of land use on PM_2.5 pollution in urban areas. Nanchang city, China, was taken as the study area. The LUR models were used to simulate the spatial variations of PM_2.5 concentrations. Analysis of variance and multiple comparisons were employed to study the PM_2.5 concentration variances among five different types of urban functional zones. Multiple linear regression was applied to explore the PM_2.5 concentration variances among the same type of urban functional zone. The results indicate that the dominant factor affecting PM_2.5 pollution in the Nanchang urban area was the traffic conditions. Significant variances of PM_2.5 concentrations among different urban functional zones throughout the year suggest that land use types generated a significant impact on PM_2.5 concentrations and the impact did not change as the seasons changed. Land use intensity indexes including the building volume rate, building density, and green coverage rate presented an insignificant or counter-intuitive impact on PM_2.5 concentrations when studied at the spatial scale of urban functional zones. Our study demonstrates that land use can greatly affect the PM_2.5 levels. Additionally, the urban functional zone was an appropriate spatial scale to investigate the impact of land use type on PM_2.5 pollution in urban areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)

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20 pages, 357 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does an Empty Nest Affect Elders’ Health? Empirical Evidence from China

by Min Gao^1,†

, Yanyu Li^2,†, Shengfa Zhang¹, Linni Gu¹, Jinsui Zhang¹, Zhuojun Li¹, Weijun Zhang^1,* and Donghua Tian^1,*

¹ School of Social Development and Public Policy, China Institute of Health, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China

² School of Humanities and Social Sciences, North China Electric Power University, Baoding 071000, China

^† These authors contribute equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 463; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050463 - 27 Apr 2017

Cited by 67 | Viewed by 8061

Abstract

The “empty-nest” elderly family has become increasingly prevalent among old people in China. This study aimed to explore the causality between empty nests and elders’ health using effective instrumental variables, including “whether old parents talk with their families when they are upset” and [...] Read more.

The “empty-nest” elderly family has become increasingly prevalent among old people in China. This study aimed to explore the causality between empty nests and elders’ health using effective instrumental variables, including “whether old parents talk with their families when they are upset” and “ownership of housing”. The results showed that empty nests had a significantly adverse influence on elders’ physical health, cognitive ability and psychological health. Furthermore, urban elders’ cognitive ability was more influenced by empty nests than that of rural elders. Additionally, the effects of an empty nest on elders” health were more significant among female, single elders and senior rural elders. “Living resources”, “availability of medical treatment” and “social activity engagement” were found to be significant mediators between empty nests and elders’ health, accounting for 35% of the total effect. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Health Promotion)

17 pages, 787 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Diabetes and Factors Associated with Foregoing Medical Care among Persons with Diabetes: Disparities Facing American Indian/Alaska Native, Black, Hispanic, Low Income, and Southern Adults in the U.S. (2011–2015)

by Samuel D. Towne^1,*, Jane Bolin², Alva Ferdinand², Emily Joy Nicklett³

, Matthew Lee Smith^1,4 and Marcia G. Ory¹

¹ Department of Health Promotion and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77846, USA

² Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77846, USA

³ School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA

⁴ Institute of Gerontology, Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 464; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050464 - 26 Apr 2017

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 16969

Abstract

Objective: Identify individual- and place-based factors associated with diagnosed diabetes and forgone medical care among those diagnosed with diabetes. Background: Diabetes affects millions of individuals globally. In the U.S. alone the prevalence rate of diagnosed diabetes has more than doubled over [...] Read more.

Objective: Identify individual- and place-based factors associated with diagnosed diabetes and forgone medical care among those diagnosed with diabetes. Background: Diabetes affects millions of individuals globally. In the U.S. alone the prevalence rate of diagnosed diabetes has more than doubled over the past 20 years (4.2% in 1994 to 10% in 2014). Methods: The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (2011–2015) was used to identify factors associated with self-reported diabetes diagnoses (ever diagnosed) among U.S. adults. Logistic regression modeled: (1) the likelihood of having diabetes; (2) the likelihood of forgone medical care among those with diabetes, given appropriate medical care has been linked to preventing complications associated with diabetes. Results: Rates of diabetes remained relatively stable from 2011 to 2015. The likelihood of diabetes was higher (p < 0.01) among racial and ethnic minority groups, men, those with lower incomes and those with lower education. Place-based disparities indicating a higher likelihood of having a diagnosis of diabetes were found for those living in rural areas (urban versus rural, unadjusted OR = 0.844–0.908; p < 0.01) and those living in the South (North, Midwest, and Western/Pacific regions versus the South, unadjusted OR = 0.794–0.889; p < 0.01). Similar results were found with forgone medical care among those diagnosed with diabetes being more likely in the South (North, Midwest, and Western/Pacific regions versus the South, unadjusted OR = 0.542–0.819). In fully-adjusted analyses, the prevalence of diabetes and forgone medical care among those diagnosed with diabetes was higher for those with lower incomes, from several racial/ethnic minority groups, and in the South versus most other regions. Conclusions: Identifying at-risk groups informs targets for prevention and assists efforts to address chronic disease self-management among those already diagnosed with diabetes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Health Promotion)

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10 pages, 1390 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence and Correlates of Suspected Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Chinese Children

by Peige Song^1,2, Jinyue Yu³, Manli Wang¹, Xinlei Chang¹, Jiawen Wang⁴ and Lin An^1,*

¹ Department of Child, Adolescent and Women’s Health, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China

² Centre for Population Health Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9AG, UK

³ Division of Medicine, School of Life and Medical Science, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK

⁴ Institute of Medical Humanities, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 465; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050465 - 27 Apr 2017

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 5653

Abstract

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become a serious public health problem worldwide; however, the availability of information on the prevalence of NAFLD in the general pediatric population is still limited. The primary aim of this study was to reveal the prevalence and [...] Read more.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become a serious public health problem worldwide; however, the availability of information on the prevalence of NAFLD in the general pediatric population is still limited. The primary aim of this study was to reveal the prevalence and correlates of suspected NAFLD in Chinese children at the national level. Data from the China Health and Nutrition Surveys (CHNS) was used. Weight, height, waist circumference (WC), blood pressure (BP) were measured for children aged 7–18 years. Blood samples were collected and analyzed. Children were classified as having suspected NAFLD if common causes of liver disease were excluded, and serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) values were above the established thresholds (>22.1 IU/L for girls and >25.8 IU/L for boys). A percentage of 9.03% (75 out of 831) of Chinese children was found to have suspected NAFLD. Overweight and obesity according to BMI percentiles, abdominal obesity, hyperuricemia (uric acid (UA) > 327 μmol/L), and elevated total cholesterol (TC) were all detected as the correlates of childhood suspected NAFLD when adjusting for other factors. Our study revealed the prevalence of suspected NAFLD in general Chinese children at the national level for the first time. Our findings indicate that suspected NAFLD in children is associated with increasing childhood morbidities, further studies are needed to better understand the prevalence of childhood NAFLD and its correlates, and large-scale programs should be launched to screen NAFLD in the pediatric population in China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

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11 pages, 313 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Determinants of Work Performance in Workers with Depression and Anxiety: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Ivana Ivandic^1,*, Kaloyan Kamenov², Diego Rojas³, Gloria Cerón³, Dennis Nowak⁴ and Carla Sabariego¹

¹ Department of Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology–IBE, Chair for Public Health and Health Services Research, Research Unit for Biopsychosocial Health, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU), Marchioninistr. 17, 81377 Munich, Germany

² Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Diego de León 62, 28006 Madrid, Spain

³ Departamento de Estudios, Servicio Nacional de la Discapacidad (Senadis), Ministerio de Desarrollo Social, Catedral 1575, 8340309 Santiago, Chile

⁴ Institute and Outpatient Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU), Ziemssenstr. 1, 80336 Munich, Germany

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 466; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050466 - 26 Apr 2017

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 9745

Abstract

Depression and anxiety are highly prevalent disorders with an impact on existential aspects of person’s life, including employment i.e., work performance (WP). In order to develop appropriate strategies, it is essential to identify determinants of WP. The objective of this study was to [...] Read more.

Depression and anxiety are highly prevalent disorders with an impact on existential aspects of person’s life, including employment i.e., work performance (WP). In order to develop appropriate strategies, it is essential to identify determinants of WP. The objective of this study was to identify the built, social, attitudinal and health system-related environmental determinants of WP in workers with anxiety or depression in total (N = 1211) and regarding the level of disability. Hierarchical binary logistic regression was performed on data obtained from implementation of the WHO Model Disability Survey (MDS) in Chile in 2015. Hindering aspects of means of transportation and workplace, and the use of personal assistance were determinants of WP for all workers with anxiety or depression. Results differed with level of disability. Hindering aspects of means of transportation and workplace, and discrimination were determinants of WP for persons with mild to moderate disability, while hindering aspects of the workplace and dwelling, and the use of personal assistance were determinants of WP for persons with severe disability. Our results emphasize the need for a broader understanding of determinants of WP and the requirement for an integrative approach in developing both universal and specific strategies that go beyond workplace settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

8 pages, 1873 KiB

Open AccessShort Note

Viability of Legionella pneumophila in Water Samples: A Comparison of Propidium Monoazide (PMA) Treatment on Membrane Filters and in Liquid

by Sara Bonetta^1,*,†

, Cristina Pignata^1,†

, Silvia Bonetta¹

, Lorenza Meucci², Donatella Giacosa², Elena Marino², Giorgio Gilli¹ and Elisabetta Carraro¹

¹ Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Torino, P.zza Polonia 94, 10126 Torino, Italy

² Società Metropolitana Acque Torino S.p.A., C.so XI Febbraio, 14, 10152 Torino, Italy

^† These authors contributed equally to the work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 467; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050467 - 27 Apr 2017

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5883

Abstract

Legionella pneumophila is a ubiquitous microorganism widely distributed in aquatic environments and can cause Legionellosis in humans. A promising approach to detect viable cells in water samples involves the use of quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in combination with photoactivatable DNA intercalator propidium [...] Read more.

Legionella pneumophila is a ubiquitous microorganism widely distributed in aquatic environments and can cause Legionellosis in humans. A promising approach to detect viable cells in water samples involves the use of quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in combination with photoactivatable DNA intercalator propidium monoazide (PMA). However, the PMA efficiency could be different depending on the experimental conditions used. The aim of this study was to compare two PMA exposure protocols: (A) directly on the membrane filter or (B) in liquid after filter washing. The overall PMA-induced qPCR means reductions in heat-killed L. pneumophila cells were 2.42 and 1.91 log units for exposure protocols A and B, respectively. A comparison between the results obtained reveals that filter exposure allows a higher PMA-qPCR signal reduction to be reached, mainly at low concentrations (p < 0.05). This confirms the potential use of this method to quantify L. pneumophila in water with low contamination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)

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19 pages, 601 KiB

Open AccessReview

Assessing Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Health Co-Benefits: A Structured Review of Lifestyle-Related Climate Change Mitigation Strategies

by Vivian G. M. Quam^1,2, Joacim Rocklöv¹

, Mikkel B. M. Quam¹ and Rebekah A. I. Lucas^1,3,*

¹ Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden

² College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA

³ School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 468; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050468 - 27 Apr 2017

Cited by 70 | Viewed by 12842

Abstract

This is the first structured review to identify and summarize research on lifestyle choices that improve health and have the greatest potential to mitigate climate change. Two literature searches were conducted on: (1) active transport health co-benefits, and (2) dietary health co-benefits. Articles [...] Read more.

This is the first structured review to identify and summarize research on lifestyle choices that improve health and have the greatest potential to mitigate climate change. Two literature searches were conducted on: (1) active transport health co-benefits, and (2) dietary health co-benefits. Articles needed to quantify both greenhouse gas emissions and health or nutrition outcomes resulting from active transport or diet changes. A data extraction tool (PRISMA) was created for article selection and evaluation. A rubric was devised to assess the biases, limitations and uncertainties of included articles. For active transport 790 articles were retrieved, nine meeting the inclusion criteria. For diet 2524 articles were retrieved, 23 meeting the inclusion criteria. A total of 31 articles were reviewed and assessed using the rubric, as one article met the inclusion criteria for both active transport and diet co-benefits. Methods used to estimate the effect of diet or active transport modification vary greatly precluding meta-analysis. The scale of impact on health and greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE) outcomes depends predominately on the aggressiveness of the diet or active transport scenario modelled, versus the modelling technique. Effective mitigation policies, infrastructure that supports active transport and low GHGE food delivery, plus community engagement are integral in achieving optimal health and GHGE outcomes. Variation in culture, nutritional and health status, plus geographic density will determine which mitigation scenario(s) best suit individual communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change and Human Health)

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11 pages, 279 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prospective Study on the Impact of Fear of Falling on Functional Decline among Community Dwelling Elderly Women

by Kyungwon Choi¹, Gyeong-Suk Jeon^2,* and Sung-il Cho³

¹ Department of Nursing, Korea National University of Transportation, 61 Daehak-ro, Jeungpyeong-gun Chungbuk 27909, Korea

² Department of Nursing, Mokpo National University, 1666 Yeongsan-ro, Cheonggye-myeon, Muan-gun, Jeollanam-do 534-729, Korea

³ Graduate School of Public Health and Institute of Health and Environment, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, Korea

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 469; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050469 - 27 Apr 2017

Cited by 63 | Viewed by 6992

Abstract

Fear of falling (FOF) is expected to have effects on functional decline in the elderly. In this study, we examined over 2 years the effect of change in FOF on functional decline in community dwelling elderly. We conducted a secondary analysis using data [...] Read more.

Fear of falling (FOF) is expected to have effects on functional decline in the elderly. In this study, we examined over 2 years the effect of change in FOF on functional decline in community dwelling elderly. We conducted a secondary analysis using data from elderly women, 70 years of age and older, who participated in the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (KLoSA). Participants were divided into four categories according to change in FOF between the 2010 and 2012 surveys. Multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted regarding the effects of changes in FOF on functional decline after controlling for variables as known risk factors for functional decline. Rates of functional decline were highest in the “consistently having FOF” group, whereas they were lowest in the “consistently no FOF” group in both 2010 and 2012. Characteristics independently associated with functional decline were change in FOF, depressive symptoms, low frequency of meeting friends, and fear-induced activity avoidance. Longer exposure to FOF was associated with an increased risk of functional decline. FOF is an important health problem that deserves attention in its own right. Public health approaches for elderly persons should address early detection, prevention, and intervention programs for FOF. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

14 pages, 308 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does Unstable Employment Have an Association with Suicide Rates among the Young?

by Chungah Kim¹ and Youngtae Cho^2,*

¹ Department of Health Policy, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada

² Department of Public Health Science, School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-172, Korea

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 470; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050470 - 28 Apr 2017

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5870

Abstract

Although a growing body of literature has indicated that unemployment has a positive association with suicide, the dynamic aspects of unstable employment have not yet been considered in suicidology. This study explored the association between employment stability and completed suicide among people aged [...] Read more.

Although a growing body of literature has indicated that unemployment has a positive association with suicide, the dynamic aspects of unstable employment have not yet been considered in suicidology. This study explored the association between employment stability and completed suicide among people aged 25–34 years in 20 OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) countries with time-series data (1994–2010). In order to consider the different aspects of unstable employment, we tested the impacts of employment protection legislation indicators as another proxy of job insecurity (employed, but unstable) apart from unemployment rates. Covariates, including economic growth rates, GDP per capita, fertility rates, and divorce rate, were controlled for. The analysis was designed to be gender- and age-specific, where observations with ages of 25–29 were separated from those with ages of 30–34. Random effect models were applied to examine changes over time in suicide rates, and other models were presented to check robustness. The results showed that it is a low level of employment protection, rather than unemployment itself, that was associated with increased suicide rates among all of the studied populations. The magnitude of the effect differed by gender. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Understanding Suicide Risk to Preventing Suicide)

18 pages, 3086 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship of PM Variation with Visibility and Mixing-Layer Height under Hazy/Foggy Conditions in the Multi-Cities of Northeast China

by Hujia Zhao^1,2, Huizheng Che^1,*

, Yanjun Ma², Yangfeng Wang², Hongbin Yang², Yuche Liu², Yaqiang Wang¹, Hong Wang¹ and Xiaoye Zhang¹

¹ State Key Laboratory of Severe Weather (LASW) and Institute of Atmospheric Composition, Chinese Academy of Meteorological Sciences, CMA, Beijing 100081, China

² Institute of Atmospheric Environment, China Meteorological Administration, Shenyang 110016, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 471; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050471 - 29 Apr 2017

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 5334

Abstract

The variations of visibility, PM-mass concentration and mixing-layer height (MLH) in four major urban/industry regions (Shenyang, Anshan, Benxi and Fushun) of central Liaoning in Northeast China are evaluated from 2009 to 2012 to characterize their dynamic effect on air pollution. The annual mean [...] Read more.

The variations of visibility, PM-mass concentration and mixing-layer height (MLH) in four major urban/industry regions (Shenyang, Anshan, Benxi and Fushun) of central Liaoning in Northeast China are evaluated from 2009 to 2012 to characterize their dynamic effect on air pollution. The annual mean visibilities are about 13.7 ± 7.8, 13.5 ± 6.5, 12.8 ± 6.1 and 11.5 ± 6.8 km in Shenyang, Anshan, Benxi and Fushun, respectively. The pollution load (PM × MLH) shows a weaker vertical diffusion in Anshan, with a higher PM concentration near the surface. High concentrations of fine-mode particles may be partially attributed to the biomass-burning emissions from September in Liaoning Province and surrounding regions in Northeast China as well as the coal burning during the heating period with lower MLH in winter. The visibility on non-hazy fog days is about 2.5–3.0 times higher than that on hazy and foggy days. The fine-particle concentrations of PM_2.5 and PM_1.0 on hazy and foggy days are ~1.8–1.9 times and ~1.5 times higher than those on non-hazy foggy days. The MLH declined more severely during fog pollution than in haze pollution. The results of this study can provide useful information to better recognize the effects of vertical pollutant diffusion on air quality in the multi-cities of central Liaoning Province in Northeast China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)

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9 pages, 1040 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Care-Seeking Patterns and Direct Economic Burden of Injuries in Bangladesh

by Yira Natalia Alfonso^1,*, Olakunle Alonge², Dewan Md Emdadul Hoque³, Md Kamran Ul Baset⁴, Adnan A. Hyder²

and David Bishai¹

¹ Department of Population Family and Reproductive health, International Injury Research Unit, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA

² Department of International Health, International Injury Research Unit, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA

³ Maternal and Child Health Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh

⁴ Centre for Injury Prevention and Research, Dhaka 1206, Bangladesh

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 472; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050472 - 29 Apr 2017

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5649

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive review of the care-seeking patterns and direct economic burden of injuries from the victims’ perspective in rural Bangladesh using a 2013 household survey covering 1.17 million people. Descriptive statistics and bivariate analyses were used to derive rates and [...] Read more.

This study provides a comprehensive review of the care-seeking patterns and direct economic burden of injuries from the victims’ perspective in rural Bangladesh using a 2013 household survey covering 1.17 million people. Descriptive statistics and bivariate analyses were used to derive rates and test the association between variables. An analytic model was used to estimate total injury out-of-pocket (OOP) payments and a multivariate probit regression model assessed the relationship between financial distress and injury type. Results show non-fatal injuries occur to 1 in 5 people in our sample per year. With average household size of 4.5 in Bangladesh--every household has an injury every year. Most non-fatally injured patients sought healthcare from drug sellers. Less than half of fatal injuries sought healthcare and half of those with care were hospitalized. Average OOP payments varied significantly (range: $8–$830) by injury type and outcome (fatal vs. non-fatal). Total injury OOP expenditure was $355,795 and $5000 for non-fatal and fatal injuries, respectively, per 100,000 people. The majority of household heads with injuries reported financial distress. This study can inform injury prevention advocates on disparities in healthcare usage, OOP costs and financial distress. Reallocation of resources to the most at risk populations can accelerate reduction of preventable injuries and prevent injury related catastrophic payments and impoverishment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection A Million Person Household Survey: Understanding the Burden of Injuries in Bangladesh)

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10 pages, 972 KiB

Open AccessArticle

6MWT Performance and its Correlations with VO₂ and Handgrip Strength in Home-Dwelling Mid-Aged and Older Chinese

by Qing Zhang^†, Hailin Lu^†, Shiqin Pan, Yuan Lin, Kun Zhou and Li Wang^*

¹ School of Nursing, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 473; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050473 - 29 Apr 2017

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 6542

Abstract

Six-minute walk test (6MWT) performance is more commonly used in clinic patients with chronic cardiopulmonary diseases but not in home-dwelling individuals of similar age, and its correlations with oxygen uptake (VO₂) and muscle strength require further investigation. The current study determined [...] Read more.

Six-minute walk test (6MWT) performance is more commonly used in clinic patients with chronic cardiopulmonary diseases but not in home-dwelling individuals of similar age, and its correlations with oxygen uptake (VO₂) and muscle strength require further investigation. The current study determined the 6MWT performance of 106 home-dwelling residents (mean age of 62 years) in Suzhou, China. VO₂ at a respiratory exchange ratio (R) of 1 was measured through graded cycling exercise tests on 46 participants. Handgrip strength of all participants was tested. 6MWT distance measured 543.4 ± 67.2 m (total work 351.0 ± 62.8 kJ) with similar distances ambulated each minute. Heart rate, blood pressure, and rate of perceived exertion scores significantly increased after 6MWT. VO₂ at R = 1 reached 1238 ± 342 mL/min (18.6 ± 4.7 mL/kg/min), whereas handgrip strength totaled 29.8 ± 9.6 kg. 6MWT distance showed strong correlations with VO₂ (r = 0.549, p ≤ 0.001) and handgrip strength (r = 0.359, p < 0.001). Aside from providing reference values for 6MWT performance (~543 m, ~559 m in males and ~533 in females) for home-dwelling Chinese residents, our results suggest that as a parameter of exercise endurance, 6MWT performance correlates with both aerobic capacity and muscle fitness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impacts of Physical Activity on Chronic Disease Prevention and Population Health)

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9 pages, 1050 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Accessing Disadvantaged Pregnant Women in Houston, Texas, and Characterizing Biomarkers of Metal Exposure: A Feasibility Study

by Kristina W. Whitworth^1,2,*, Inkyu Han^2,3, Masoud Afshar^2,3, Yuan Mei³, Pamela D. Berens⁴, Shreela V. Sharma³ and Elaine Symanski^2,3

¹ Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, UTHealth School of Public Health in San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA

² Southwest Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, UTHealth School of Public Health, Houston, TX 78030, USA

³ Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, UTHealth School of Public Health, Houston, TX 78030, USA

⁴ Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, UTHealth McGovern Medical School, Houston TX 78030, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 474; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050474 - 29 Apr 2017

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4309

Abstract

Abstract: Communities of color or low socioeconomic status are disproportionately affected by metal exposure given spatial variability of the ambient levels of these contaminants. Despite this, there is little research characterizing metal concentrations in blood among disadvantaged populations in the U.S., especially [...] Read more.

Abstract: Communities of color or low socioeconomic status are disproportionately affected by metal exposure given spatial variability of the ambient levels of these contaminants. Despite this, there is little research characterizing metal concentrations in blood among disadvantaged populations in the U.S., especially among pregnant women who are particularly vulnerable and difficult to access. Thus, we conducted a pilot study among disadvantaged pregnant women in Houston, Texas to assess willingness to participate in key activities of an epidemiologic study and characterize exposures to 16 metals. Thirty-one women attending a Medicaid-serving prenatal clinic were included in this pilot study and completed an interviewer-administered questionnaire. We obtained and measured metal compounds in whole blood samples for 22 of these women during third-trimester prenatal visits. Median whole blood concentrations of Ni, As, Cd, and Pb were 27, 1.4, 0.6, and 6.3 µg/L, respectively. Most women were willing to participate in critical aspects of a research study, including wearing a personal air-sampling badge for 2–3 days (87.1%), receiving ultrasounds (83.9%), and providing blood draws (64.5%). Despite the small sample, our results provide evidence of women’s metal exposure and their willingness to participate in future research studies to elucidate exposure pathways and explore related health effects experienced among this population of disadvantaged pregnant women. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

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14 pages, 1023 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stress in School. Some Empirical Hints on the Circadian Cortisol Rhythm of Children in Outdoor and Indoor Classes

by Ulrich Dettweiler^1,*, Christoph Becker²

, Bjørn H. Auestad³, Perikles Simon⁴ and Peter Kirsch⁵

¹ Department of Cultural Studies and Languages, University of Stavanger, 4036 Stavanger, Norway

² Department of Sports and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Arcisstr. 21, 80333 Munich, Germany

³ Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Stavanger, 4036 Stavanger, Norway

⁴ Faculty of Social Science, Media and Sport, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz Saarstr. 21, 55099 Mainz, Germany

⁵ Department of Clinical Psychology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, J 5, 68159 Mannheim, Germany

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 475; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050475 - 30 Apr 2017

Cited by 69 | Viewed by 17444

Abstract

This prospective longitudinal survey compared the stress levels of students taught using an outdoor curriculum in a forest, with children in a normal school setting. We were especially interested in the effect outdoor teaching might have on the children’s normal diurnal cortisol rhythm. [...] Read more.

This prospective longitudinal survey compared the stress levels of students taught using an outdoor curriculum in a forest, with children in a normal school setting. We were especially interested in the effect outdoor teaching might have on the children’s normal diurnal cortisol rhythm. 48 children (mean age = 11.23; standard deviation (SD) = 0.46) were enrolled, with 37 in the intervention group (IG), and 11 in the control group (CG). The intervention consisted of one full school day per week in the forest over the school year. Stress levels were measured in cortisol with three samples of saliva per day. Furthermore, the data allowed for statistical control of physical activity (PA) values. For data analysis, we used a linear mixed-effects model (LMM) with random intercept and general correlation matrix for the within-unit residuals. The LMM yields that IG have expected greater decline of cortisol compared to CG; rate 0.069 µg/L vs. 0.0102 µg/L (log-units/2 h), p = 0.009. PA does not show a statistically significant interaction with cortisol (p = 0.857), despite being higher in the intervention group (p < 0.001). The main effect in our measures was that the IG had a steady decline of cortisol during the school day. This is in accordance with a healthy child’s diurnal rhythm, with a significant decline of cortisol from morning to noon. This effect is constant over the school year. The CG does not show this decline during either measurement day. Further research is needed to fully explain this interesting phenomenon. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)

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24 pages, 1818 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Individuals’ Acceptance to Free-Floating Electric Carsharing Mode: A Web-Based Survey in China

by Yun Wang¹, Xuedong Yan^1,*

, Yu Zhou¹, Qingwan Xue¹ and Li Sun²

¹ MOE Key Laboratory for Urban Transportation, Complex System Theory and Technology, School of Traffic and Transportation, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing 100044, China

² School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, No.1 Zhanlanguan Road, Xicheng District, Beijing 100044, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 476; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050476 - 2 May 2017

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 6576

Abstract

Carsharing is growing rapidly in popularity worldwide. When the vehicles involved are Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV), carsharing has been proven to remarkably contribute to easing energy and environment crises. In this study, individuals’ acceptance to carsharing in China was measured from three aspects: [...] Read more.

Carsharing is growing rapidly in popularity worldwide. When the vehicles involved are Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV), carsharing has been proven to remarkably contribute to easing energy and environment crises. In this study, individuals’ acceptance to carsharing in China was measured from three aspects: carsharing mode choice behavior, highest acceptable price to use carsharing, and willingness to forgo car purchases. The data were collected by a web-based survey. The hierarchical tree-based regression (HTBR) method was applied to explore the effects of potential influencing factors on individuals’ acceptance, and some interesting findings were obtained: participants who know about carsharing were more likely to use carsharing, pay higher prices and forgo car purchases; the most competitive trip purpose and trip distance for choosing carsharing were, respectively, business activities and 11–20 km; most participants (47.1%) were willing to pay 1–2 Yuan per minute to use carsharing, and males or participants with higher income-level could accept higher price; and when car purchase restrain policy (CPRP) was carried out in a city or the urban public transport service level (UPTSL) was high, participants were more willing to forgo car purchases. Based on the above findings, corresponding policies were proposed to provide guidance for successful establishment of carsharing in China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Transportation and Health)

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11 pages, 310 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Epidemiology and Management of Acute Haematogenous Osteomyelitis in a Tertiary Paediatric Center

by Elena Chiappini^1,*, Caterina Camposampiero¹, Simone Lazzeri², Giuseppe Indolfi³, Maurizio De Martino⁴ and Luisa Galli¹

¹ Paediatric Infectious Disease Unit, Anna Meyer Children’s University Hospital, Florence 50100, Italy

² Orthopedics and Traumatology Department, Anna Meyer Children’s University Hospital, Florence 50100, Italy

³ Department of Pediatrics, Anna Meyer Children’s University Hospital, Florence 50100, Italy

⁴ Meyer Health Campus, Anna Meyer Children’s University Hospital, Florence 50100, Italy

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 477; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050477 - 4 May 2017

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 5932

Abstract

Background: Paediatric acute hematogenous osteomyelitis (AHOM) is a serious disease requiring early diagnosis and treatment. To review the clinical presentation, management and organisms responsible for AHOM, and to explore risk factors for complicated AHOM, a large cohort referring to a single center [...] Read more.

Background: Paediatric acute hematogenous osteomyelitis (AHOM) is a serious disease requiring early diagnosis and treatment. To review the clinical presentation, management and organisms responsible for AHOM, and to explore risk factors for complicated AHOM, a large cohort referring to a single center over a 6-year period was evaluated. Methods: Data from children with AHOM, hospitalized between 2010 and 2015, and aged > 1 month, were retrospectively collected and analyzed. Results: 121 children (median age 4.8 years; 55.4% males) were included. Fever at onset was present in 55/121 children (45.5%); the lower limb was most frequently affected (n = 68/121; 56.2%). Microbiological diagnosis (by culture and/or polymerase chain reaction (PCR)) was reached in 33.3% cases. Blood and pus/biopsy culture sensitivities were 32.4% and 46.4%, respectively. PCR sensitivity was 3.6% (2/55) on blood, and 66.6% (16/24) on pus/biopsy sample. Staphylococcus aureus was the most commonly identified pathogen (n = 20); no methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was isolated, 10.0% (n = 2) strains were Panton-Valentine-Leukocidin (PVL) producer; 48.8% (59/121) cases were complicated. At univariate analysis, factors associated with complicated AHOM were: recent fever episode, fever at onset, upper limb involvement, white blood count (WBC) ≥ 12,000/µL, C reactive protein (CRP) ≥ 10 mg/L, S. aureus infection. At multivariate analyses S. aureus infection remained the only risk factor for complicated AHOM (aOR = 3.388 (95%CI: 1.061–10.824); p-value = 0.039). Conclusions: In this study microbiological diagnosis was obtained in over one third of cases. Empiric treatment targeting methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus seems to be justified by available microbiological data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

18 pages, 1297 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Australian National Pollutant Inventory Fails to Fulfil Its Legislated Goals

by Nathan Cooper^1,2,*, Donna Green^1,2

and Katrin J. Meissner^1,2

¹ Climate Change Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Kensington, Sydney 2052, Australia

² Australian Research Council’s (ARC) Centre of Excellence for Climate System Science, Canberra 2601, Australia

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 478; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050478 - 4 May 2017

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4874

Abstract

Publically accessible pollution databases, such as the Australian National Pollutant Inventory, contain information on chemical emissions released by industrial facility and diffuse sources. They are meant to enable public scrutiny of industrial activity, which in turn, is meant to lead to industries reducing [...] Read more.

Publically accessible pollution databases, such as the Australian National Pollutant Inventory, contain information on chemical emissions released by industrial facility and diffuse sources. They are meant to enable public scrutiny of industrial activity, which in turn, is meant to lead to industries reducing their pollution. In Australia, however, concerns have been consistently raised that this process is not occurring. To assess whether Australia’s National Pollutant Inventory is fulfilling its legislated goals, we examined the accuracy and consistency of the largest facility and diffuse source of airborne lead, a major pollutant of concern for public health. Our analysis found that the emissions estimates provided by the Inventory were not accurate and were not consistent with other sources of emissions within the Inventory, potentially distorting any user interpretation of emissions estimates provided by the National Pollutant Inventory. We conclude that for at least these important public health pollution sources, the Inventory does not fulfil its legislated goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)

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11 pages, 1986 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bacterial Pollution in River Waters and Gastrointestinal Diseases

by Lilia Rodríguez-Tapia^* and Jorge A. Morales-Novelo

Economic’s Department, Metropolitan Autonomous University, Av. San Pablo No. 180, Colonia Reynosa Tamaulipas, C.P. 02200, CDMX, Mexico

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 479; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050479 - 4 May 2017

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 7622

Abstract

Currently, one of Mexico’s most severe environmental problems is the high levels of pollution of many of its rivers. The present article focuses on the relationship between total coliform bacteria levels and the increase of human digestive tract diseases in the highly polluted [...] Read more.

Currently, one of Mexico’s most severe environmental problems is the high levels of pollution of many of its rivers. The present article focuses on the relationship between total coliform bacteria levels and the increase of human digestive tract diseases in the highly polluted Atoyac River in the central Mexican states of Puebla and Tlaxcala. Pollution has become a potential health hazard for people living in nearby river communities. Based on data collected from six of the most contaminated riverside municipalities, two environmental models were developed taking into consideration the health of the entire population, not simply that of its individual members. Such models estimate a health-disease function that confirm the link between Atoyac River pollution and the incidence of gastrointestinal diseases. The causal relation between pollution and gastrointestinal disease incentivizes the creation of epidemiological and public health programs aimed at reducing the environmental health impact of the pollution associated with the Atoyac River. The results presented here are the first of their kind of this river and will serve as basis for future research exploring other similarly contaminated riparian communities. As the causes of pollution are directly related to the economic development and population growth of the region, further research should be conducted for prevention of diseases, educational programs, water remediation and conservation programs that will have a positive impact on the quality of life of the population presently at risk. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Pollution and Human Health Risk)

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11 pages, 3215 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Methods for Decontamination of Microcystin in Water Using Cold Plasma and UV with Reusable TiO₂ Nanoparticle Coating

by Xuewen Jiang¹, Seungjun Lee², Chulkyoon Mok³ and Jiyoung Lee^1,2,3,*

¹ Department of Food Science and Technology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA

² Environmental Science Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA

³ Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Gachon University, Seongnam 13557, Korea

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 480; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050480 - 5 May 2017

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 5646

Abstract

Microcystins (MCs) are a family of cyanotoxins and pose detrimental effects on human, animal, and ecological health. Conventional water treatment processes have limited success in removing MCs without producing harmful byproducts. Therefore, there is an urgent need for cost-effective and environmentally-friendly methods for [...] Read more.

Microcystins (MCs) are a family of cyanotoxins and pose detrimental effects on human, animal, and ecological health. Conventional water treatment processes have limited success in removing MCs without producing harmful byproducts. Therefore, there is an urgent need for cost-effective and environmentally-friendly methods for treating MCs. The objective of this study was to develop sustainable and non-chemical-based methods for controlling MCs, such as using cold plasma and ultra violet (UV) light with titanium dioxide (TiO₂) coating, which can be applied for diverse scale and settings. MCs, extracted from Microcystis aeruginosa, were treated with cold plasma or UV at irradiance of 1470 μW/cm² (high) or 180 μW/cm² (low). To assess synergistic effects, the outside of the UV treatment chamber was coated with nanoparticles (TiO₂) prior to irradiation, which can be reused for a long time. The degradation efficiency of UV was enhanced by the reusable TiO₂ coating at lower irradiance (70.41% [UV] vs. 79.61% [UV+TiO₂], 120 min), but no significant difference was observed at higher irradiance. Cold plasma removed MCs rapidly under experimental conditions (92%, 120 min), indicating that it is a promising candidate for controlling MCs in water without generating harmful disinfection byproducts. It can be also easily and practically used in household settings during emergency situations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)

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2 pages, 217 KiB

Open AccessComment

Comment on Sundseth et al. Global Sources and Pathways of Mercury in the Context of Human Health. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14, 105

by S. M. J. Mortazavi¹

, Ghazal Mortazavi² and Maryam Paknahad^3,*

¹ Diagnostic Imaging Center, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA

² Ionizing and Non-ionizing Radiation Protection Research Center (INIRPRC), Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7134845794, Iran

³ Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology Department, School of Dentistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 713451836, Iran

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 481; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050481 - 5 May 2017

Viewed by 3612

Abstract

It was with great interest that we read the article by Sundseth et al. [1] entitled Global Sources and Pathways of Mercury in the Context of Human Health which is published in the Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14, [...] Read more.

It was with great interest that we read the article by Sundseth et al. [1] entitled Global Sources and Pathways of Mercury in the Context of Human Health which is published in the Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14, 105; doi:10.3390/ijerph14010105.[...] Full article

11 pages, 1420 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence of Rotavirus Genogroup A and Norovirus Genogroup II in Bassaseachic Falls National Park Surface Waters in Chihuahua, Mexico

by Ma. Carmen E. Delgado-Gardea^1,2, Patricia Tamez-Guerra²

, Ricardo Gomez-Flores², Aurora Mendieta-Mendoza¹, Francisco Javier Zavala-Díaz de la Serna¹, Juan Francisco Contreras-Cordero², Gilberto Erosa-de la Vega¹, María Concepción Pérez-Recoder³, Blanca Sánchez-Ramírez¹

, Carmen González-Horta¹ and Rocío Infante-Ramírez^1,*

¹ Laboratorio de Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua, Circuito Nuevo Campus Universitario No.1, Chihuahua 31125, Mexico

² Departamento de Microbiología e Inmunología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Ave. Universidad s/n, San Nicolás de los Garza 66455, Mexico

³ Comisión Nacional de Áreas Naturales Protegidas, Dirección Regional Norte y Sierra Madre Occidental, Parque Nacional Cascada de Bassaseachic, Ocampo, Chihuahua 31203, Mexico

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 482; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050482 - 5 May 2017

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5393

Abstract

In areas lacking potable water treatment, drinking contaminated water may represent a public health threat. In addition to enteropathogenic bacteria and parasites, fecal contamination in water environments is associated with the transmission of enteric viruses and other causal agents of infectious disease. Rotavirus [...] Read more.

In areas lacking potable water treatment, drinking contaminated water may represent a public health threat. In addition to enteropathogenic bacteria and parasites, fecal contamination in water environments is associated with the transmission of enteric viruses and other causal agents of infectious disease. Rotavirus and norovirus are the main enteric viral agents responsible for diarrheic outbreaks. The aim of the present study was to detect seasonal variation of rotavirus and norovirus in the surface water at Bassaseachic Falls National Park during 2013. Rivers and streams within and nearby this park were sampled once in each season during 2013. Viral concentration was carried out by a handmade filtration equipment, using a commercial electropositive membrane coupled with the virus absortion elution technique (VIRADEL©). Detection of rotavirus and norovirus was performed by SYBR Green reverse transcription-real time polymerase chain reaction (SYBR GREEN© RT-qPCR) analyses. Norovirus genogroup II was detected in samples collected in June and October 2013. In the case of rotavirus, genogroup A was detected in March and June. The presence of rotavirus and norovirus was related to viral acute diarrhea in children less than five years of age, who were inhabiting the sampled areas. This may indicates that the contaminated water was potentially a risk factor for regional diarrheic outbreaks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Proceedings from the 13th International Symposium on Recent Advances in Environmental Health Research)

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9 pages, 284 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Dog-Assisted Intervention on Student Well-Being, Mood, and Anxiety

by Dasha Grajfoner^*, Emma Harte, Lauren M. Potter and Nicola McGuigan

Department of Psychology, Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, UK

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 483; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050483 - 5 May 2017

Cited by 91 | Viewed by 27398

Abstract

This novel, exploratory study investigated the effect of a short, 20 min, dog-assisted intervention on student well-being, mood, and anxiety. One hundred and thirty-two university students were allocated to either an experimental condition or one of two control conditions. Each participant completed the [...] Read more.

This novel, exploratory study investigated the effect of a short, 20 min, dog-assisted intervention on student well-being, mood, and anxiety. One hundred and thirty-two university students were allocated to either an experimental condition or one of two control conditions. Each participant completed the Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale (WEMBS), the State Trait Anxiety Scale (STAI), and the UWIST Mood Adjective Checklist (UMACL) both before, and after, the intervention. The participants in the experimental condition interacted with both the dogs and their handlers, whereas the control groups interacted with either the dog only, or the handler only. The analyses revealed a significant difference across conditions for each measure, with those conditions in which a dog was present leading to significant improvements in mood and well-being, as well as a significant reduction in anxiety. Interestingly, the presence of a handler alongside the dog appeared to have a negative, and specific, effect on participant mood, with greater positive shifts in mood being witnessed when participants interacted with the dog alone, than when interacting with both the dog and the handler. These findings show that even a short 20 min session with a therapy dog can be an effective alternative intervention to improve student well-being, anxiety, and mood. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Assisted Interventions and Activities for Health and Wellbeing)

16 pages, 1460 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modeling Geospatial Patterns of Late-Stage Diagnosis of Breast Cancer in the US

by Lee R. Mobley^1,*, Tzy-Mey Kuo², Lia Scott³

, Yamisha Rutherford³ and Srimoyee Bose³

¹ School of Public Health and Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, Georgia State University, 1 Park Place, Atlanta, GA 30304, USA

² Lineberger Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA

³ School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30304, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 484; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050484 - 5 May 2017

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 6724

Abstract

In the US, about one-third of new breast cancers (BCs) are diagnosed at a late stage, where morbidity and mortality burdens are higher. Health outcomes research has focused on the contribution of measures of social support, particularly the residential isolation or segregation index, [...] Read more.

In the US, about one-third of new breast cancers (BCs) are diagnosed at a late stage, where morbidity and mortality burdens are higher. Health outcomes research has focused on the contribution of measures of social support, particularly the residential isolation or segregation index, on propensity to utilize mammography and rates of late-stage diagnoses. Although inconsistent, studies have used various approaches and shown that residential segregation may play an important role in cancer morbidities and mortality. Some have focused on any individuals living in residentially segregated places (place-centered), while others have focused on persons of specific races or ethnicities living in places with high segregation of their own race or ethnicity (person-centered). This paper compares and contrasts these two approaches in the study of predictors of late-stage BC diagnoses in a cross-national study. We use 100% of U.S. Cancer Statistics (USCS) Registry data pooled together from 40 states to identify late-stage diagnoses among ~1 million new BC cases diagnosed during 2004–2009. We estimate a multilevel model with person-, county-, and state-level predictors and a random intercept specification to help ensure robust effect estimates. Person-level variables in both models suggest that non-White races or ethnicities have higher odds of late-stage diagnosis, and the odds of late-stage diagnosis decline with age, being highest among the <age 50 group. After controlling statistically for all other factors, we examine place-centered isolation and find for anyone living in an isolated Asian community there is a large beneficial association (suggesting lower odds of late-stage diagnosis) while for anyone living in an isolated White community there is a large detrimental association (suggesting greater odds of late-stage diagnosis). By contrast, living in neighborhoods among others of one’s own race or ethnicity (person-centered isolation) is associated with greater odds of late-stage diagnosis, as this measure is dominated by Whites (the majority). At the state level, living in a state that allows unfettered access to a specialist is associated with a somewhat lower likelihood of being diagnosed at a late stage of BC. Geographic factors help explain the likelihood of late-stage BC diagnosis, which varies considerably across the U.S. as heterogeneous compositional and contextual factors portray very different places and potential for improving information and outcomes. The USCS database is expanding to cover more states and is expected to be a valuable resource for ongoing and future place-based cancer outcomes research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geographical Variation in Breast Cancer Outcomes)

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20 pages, 763 KiB

Open AccessReview

Effects of Regular Classes in Outdoor Education Settings: A Systematic Review on Students’ Learning, Social and Health Dimensions

by Christoph Becker^1,*

, Gabriele Lauterbach¹, Sarah Spengler¹, Ulrich Dettweiler² and Filip Mess¹

¹ Department of Sports and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Arcisstr. 21, 80333 Munich, Germany

² Department of Cultural Studies and Languages, University of Stavanger, 4036 Stavanger, Norway

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 485; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050485 - 5 May 2017

Cited by 214 | Viewed by 48589

Abstract

Background: Participants in Outdoor Education Programmes (OEPs) presumably benefit from these programmes in terms of their social and personal development, academic achievement and physical activity (PA). The aim of this systematic review was to identify studies about regular compulsory school- and curriculum-based OEPs, [...] Read more.

Background: Participants in Outdoor Education Programmes (OEPs) presumably benefit from these programmes in terms of their social and personal development, academic achievement and physical activity (PA). The aim of this systematic review was to identify studies about regular compulsory school- and curriculum-based OEPs, to categorise and evaluate reported outcomes, to assess the methodological quality, and to discuss possible benefits for students. Methods: We searched online databases to identify English- and German-language peer-reviewed journal articles that reported any outcomes on a student level. Two independent reviewers screened studies identified for eligibility and assessed the methodological quality. Results: Thirteen studies were included for analysis. Most studies used a case-study design, the average number of participants was moderate (mean valued (M) = 62.17; standard deviation (SD) = 64.12), and the methodological quality was moderate on average for qualitative studies (M = 0.52; SD = 0.11), and low on average for quantitative studies (M = 0.18; SD = 0.42). Eight studies described outcomes in terms of social dimensions, seven studies in learning dimensions and four studies were subsumed under additional outcomes, i.e., PA and health. Eleven studies reported positive, one study positive as well as negative, and one study reported negative effects. PA and mental health as outcomes were underrepresented. Conclusion: Tendencies were detected that regular compulsory school- and curriculum-based OEPs can promote students in respect of social, academic, physical and psychological dimensions. Very little is known concerning students’ PA or mental health. We recommend conducting more quasi-experimental design and longitudinal studies with a greater number of participants, and a high methodological quality to further investigate these tendencies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)

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14 pages, 942 KiB

Open AccessReview

Assessing the Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Breast Cancer Mortality in the United States

by Clement G. Yedjou^1,*

, Paul B. Tchounwou¹

, Marinelle Payton², Lucio Miele³, Duber D. Fonseca¹, Leroy Lowe⁴ and Richard A. Alo⁵

¹ Natural Chemotherapeutics Research Laboratory, Research Centers in Minority Institutio (RCMI)-Center for Environmental Health, College of Science, Engineering and Technology, Jackson State University, 1400 Lynch Street, Box 18750, Jackson, MS 39217, USA

² Center of Excellence in Minority Health and Health Disparities, School of Public Health, Jackson State University, Jackson Medical Mall-Thad Cochran Center, 350 West Woodrow Wilson Avenue, Jackson, MS 39213, USA

³ Department of Genetics, LSU Health Sciences Center, School of Medicine, 533 Bolivar Street, Room 657, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA

⁴ Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4YW, UK

⁵ Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, College of Science, Engineering and Technology, Jackson State University, 1400 Lynch Street, Box 18750, Jackson, MS 39217, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 486; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050486 - 5 May 2017

Cited by 130 | Viewed by 16166

Abstract

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths among women aged 40–55 in the United States and currently affects more than one in ten women worldwide. It is also one of the most diagnosed cancers in women both in wealthy [...] Read more.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths among women aged 40–55 in the United States and currently affects more than one in ten women worldwide. It is also one of the most diagnosed cancers in women both in wealthy and poor countries. Fortunately, the mortality rate from breast cancer has decreased in recent years due to increased emphasis on early detection and more effective treatments in White population. Although the mortality rates have declined in some ethnic populations, the overall cancer incidence among African American and Hispanic populations has continued to grow. The goal of the present review article was to highlight similarities and differences in breast cancer morbidity and mortality rates primarily among African American women compared to White women in the United States. To reach our goal, we conducted a search of articles in journals with a primary focus on minority health, and authors who had published articles on racial/ethnic disparity related to breast cancer patients. A systematic search of original research was conducted using MEDLINE, PUBMED and Google Scholar databases. We found that racial/ethnic disparities in breast cancer may be attributed to a large number of clinical and non-clinical risk factors including lack of medical coverage, barriers to early detection and screening, more advanced stage of disease at diagnosis among minorities, and unequal access to improvements in cancer treatment. Many African American women have frequent unknown or unstaged breast cancers than White women. These risk factors may explain the differences in breast cancer treatment and survival rate between African American women and White women. New strategies and approaches are needed to promote breast cancer prevention, improve survival rate, reduce breast cancer mortality, and ultimately improve the health outcomes of racial/ethnic minorities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Eliminating Health Disparities through Multi-Trans-Disciplinary Approaches)

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12 pages, 425 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Patterns and Obesity among Chinese Adults: Results from a Household-Based Cross-Sectional Study

by Yan Zou

, Ronghua Zhang, Shichang Xia^*, Lichun Huang, Jia Meng, Yueqiang Fang and Gangqiang Ding

Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 3399 Binsheng Road, Hangzhou 310051, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 487; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050487 - 5 May 2017

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 4789

Abstract

The key dietary pattern other than dietary factors influencing obesity has been reported by several large epidemiological studies. This study was carried out between 2010 and 2012 including 1613 adult residents in Zhejiang Province. Dietary patterns were extracted by factor analysis based on [...] Read more.

The key dietary pattern other than dietary factors influencing obesity has been reported by several large epidemiological studies. This study was carried out between 2010 and 2012 including 1613 adult residents in Zhejiang Province. Dietary patterns were extracted by factor analysis based on 24-h dietary recall. Associations with dietary patterns and obesity were examined and adjusted for age and gender by logistic regression. Five dietary patterns were identified by factor analysis with their eigenvalues greater than 1: ‘cereal, animal, and plant food’, ‘high protein food’, ‘plant food’, ‘poultry’, and ‘beverage’. After adjustment for age and gender, the ‘cereal, animal, and plant food’ and ‘beverage’ pattern was associated with obesity (OR = 2.924, 3.257; 95% CI = 1.147–7.463, 1.372–7.692). In conclusion, ‘cereal, animal, and plant food’ and ‘beverage’ dietary patterns may be associated with increased risk of obesity. ‘Cereal, animal, and plant food’ dietary patterns may be associated with increased risk of obesity resulting from increased total energy intake by increased protein and fat intake; while a ‘beverage’ dietary pattern may be associated with increased risk of obesity resulting from increased total energy intake by increased carbohydrate intake. The findings are valuable in targeting future nutrition education. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

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11 pages, 454 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Epidemiology of Drowning in Bangladesh: An Update

by Aminur Rahman^1,*

, Olakunle Alonge², Al-Amin Bhuiyan¹

, Priyanka Agrawal²

, Shumona Sharmin Salam³, Abu Talab¹, Qazi Sadeq-ur Rahman³ and Adnan A. Hyder²

¹ Centre for Injury Prevention and Research, Bangladesh (CIPRB), House B162, Road 23, New DOHS, Mohakhali, Dhaka 1206, Bangladesh

² Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA

³ Centre for Child and Adolescent Health, icddr,b. 68 Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Sarani, Mohakhali, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 488; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050488 - 5 May 2017

Cited by 50 | Viewed by 10723

Abstract

Over one-quarter of deaths among 1–4 year-olds in Bangladesh were due to drowning in 2003, and the proportion increased to 42% in 2011. This study describes the current burden and risk factors for drowning across all demographics in rural Bangladesh. A household survey [...] Read more.

Over one-quarter of deaths among 1–4 year-olds in Bangladesh were due to drowning in 2003, and the proportion increased to 42% in 2011. This study describes the current burden and risk factors for drowning across all demographics in rural Bangladesh. A household survey was carried out in 51 union parishads of rural Bangladesh between June and November 2013, covering 1.17 million individuals. Information on fatal and nonfatal drowning events was collected by face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. Fatal and non-fatal drowning rates were 15.8/100,000/year and 318.4/100,000/6 months, respectively, for all age groups. The highest rates of fatal (121.5/100,000/year) and non-fatal (3057.7/100,000/6 months) drowning were observed among children 1 to 4 years of age. These children had higher rates of fatal (13 times) and non-fatal drowning (16 times) compared with infants. Males had slightly higher rates of both fatal and non-fatal drowning. Individuals with no education had 3 times higher rates of non-fatal drowning compared with those with high school or higher education. Non-fatal drowning rates increased significantly with decrease in socio-economic status (SES) quintiles, from the highest to the lowest. Drowning is a major public health issue in Bangladesh, and is now a major threat to child survival. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection A Million Person Household Survey: Understanding the Burden of Injuries in Bangladesh)

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10 pages, 449 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Survival Analysis of Coal Workers’ Pneumoconiosis (CWP) Patients in a State-Owned Mine in the East of China from 1963 to 2014

by Lei Han^1,2,†, Qianqian Gao^1,†, Jingjin Yang^2,3,†, Qiuyun Wu², Baoli Zhu¹, Hengdong Zhang¹, Bangmei Ding¹ and Chunhui Ni^2,*

¹ Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing 210028, China

² Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China

³ Division of Health Risk Factor Monitoring and Control, Shanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai 200336, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 489; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050489 - 6 May 2017

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 5953

Abstract

To investigate the mortality probability, life expectancy of coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (CWP), and related factors of life expectancy, a total of 495 patients with CWP were diagnosed and reported from 1963 to 2014 in a state-owned mine in the east of China. The [...] Read more.

To investigate the mortality probability, life expectancy of coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (CWP), and related factors of life expectancy, a total of 495 patients with CWP were diagnosed and reported from 1963 to 2014 in a state-owned mine in the east of China. The life table method, log rank method, and Cox regression model were used for survival analysis. 95 out of 495 CWP died during this period. The mortality rate was 19.19%. The average life span was 12.1 (0.0–33.2) years and average death age was 57.4 (33.0–83.0) years. The life table indicated that overall mortality probability increased with the age of CWP patients. Life expectancy of CWP patients was prolonged to 4.3, 1.4, 1.2, and 1.4 years without death caused by pneumoconiosis, tuberculosis, lung cancer, and pulmonary heart disease respectively. The survival curve of CWP patients without pulmonary tuberculosis was higher (average 37.9 years) than patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (average 34.1 years). There was significant difference observed (χ² = 6.196, p < 0.05). Three risk factors that include initial dust exposure year, age of onset, and first diagnostic stage were put into the Cox regression model for evaluation. The data indicated that prevention and treatment of CWP complication is important to improve patients’ survival rates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

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15 pages, 481 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Childhood Attachment to Pets: Associations between Pet Attachment, Attitudes to Animals, Compassion, and Humane Behaviour

by Roxanne D. Hawkins^1,*, Joanne M. Williams¹ and Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Scottish SPCA)²

¹ Clinical and Health Psychology, School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Medical School, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH8 9AG, UK

² Kingseat Road, Halbeath, Dunfermline KY11 8PQ, Fife, UK

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 490; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050490 - 6 May 2017

Cited by 107 | Viewed by 34675

Abstract

Attachment to pets has an important role in children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development, mental health, well-being, and quality of life. This study examined associations between childhood attachment to pets and caring and friendship behaviour, compassion, and attitudes towards animals. This study also [...] Read more.

Attachment to pets has an important role in children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development, mental health, well-being, and quality of life. This study examined associations between childhood attachment to pets and caring and friendship behaviour, compassion, and attitudes towards animals. This study also examined socio-demographic differences, particularly pet ownership and pet type. A self-report survey of over one thousand 7 to 12 year-olds in Scotland, UK, revealed that the majority of children are strongly attached to their pets, but attachment scores differ depending on pet type and child gender. Analysis revealed that attachment to pets is facilitated by compassion and caring and pet-directed friendship behaviours and that attachment to pets significantly predicts positive attitudes towards animals. The findings have implications for the promotion of prosocial and humane behaviour. Encouraging children to participate in pet care behaviour may promote attachment between children and their pet, which in turn may have a range of positive outcomes for both children (such as reduced aggression, better well-being, and quality of life) and pets (such as humane treatment). This study enhances our understanding of childhood pet attachment and has implications for humane education and promoting secure emotional attachments in childhood. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Assisted Interventions and Activities for Health and Wellbeing)

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13 pages, 938 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nocturnal Road Traffic Noise Exposure and Children’s Sleep Duration and Sleep Problems

by Kjell Vegard Weyde^1,*, Norun Hjertager Krog¹, Bente Oftedal¹, Jorunn Evandt¹, Per Magnus^2,3, Simon Øverland^4,5, Charlotte Clark⁶, Stephen Stansfeld⁶ and Gunn Marit Aasvang^1,*

¹ Department of Air Pollution and Noise, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Pb 4404 Nydalen, 0403 Oslo, Norway

² Domain of Health Data and Digitalization, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Pb 4404 Nydalen, 0403 Oslo, Norway

³ Institute of Health and Society, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Pb 1130 Blindern, 0318 Oslo, Norway

⁴ Division of Mental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Zander Kaaes gate 7, 5015 Bergen, Norway

⁵ Faculty of Psychology, University of Bergen, Pb 7807, 5020 Bergen, Norway

⁶ Centre for Psychiatry, Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, UK

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 491; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050491 - 6 May 2017

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 8786

Abstract

Almost half of the European Union (EU)’s population is exposed to road traffic noise above levels that constitute a health risk. Associations between road traffic noise and impaired sleep in adults have consistently been reported. Less is known about effects of noise on [...] Read more.

Almost half of the European Union (EU)’s population is exposed to road traffic noise above levels that constitute a health risk. Associations between road traffic noise and impaired sleep in adults have consistently been reported. Less is known about effects of noise on children’s sleep. The aim of this study was to examine the association between nocturnal road traffic noise exposure and children’s parental-reported sleep duration and sleep problems. The present cross-sectional study used data from The Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study. Parental report of children’s sleep duration and sleep problems at age 7 was linked to modelled levels of residential night-time road traffic noise. The study population included 2665 children from Oslo, Norway. No association was found between road traffic noise and sleep duration in the total study population (odds ratio (OR): 1.05, 95% confidence interval (CI): [0.94, 1.17]), but a statistically significant association was observed in girls (OR: 1.21, 95% CI: [1.04, 1.41]). For sleep problems, the associations were similar (OR: 1.36, 95% CI: [0.85, 2.16]) in girls. The ORs are presented for an increase of 10 dB. The findings suggest there is an association between road traffic noise and sleep for girls, underlining the importance of protecting children against excessive noise levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Transportation and Health)

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12 pages, 298 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perception, Knowledge and Behaviors Related to Typhoon: A Cross Sectional Study among Rural Residents in Zhejiang, China

by Wenchao Zhang¹

, Wei Wang², Junfen Lin², Ying Zhang³, Xiaopeng Shang², Xin Wang⁴, Meilin Huang⁵, Shike Liu⁵ and Wei Ma^1,6,*

¹ Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China

² Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou 310051, Zhejiang, China

³ School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia

⁴ Bureau of human resources and social security of Fengtai District of Beijing, Beijing 100073, China

⁵ Ninghai County Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Ningbo 315600, Zhejiang, China

⁶ Shandong University Climate Change and Health Center, Jinan 250012, Shandong, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 492; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050492 - 6 May 2017

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 7668

Abstract

(1) The objective of this study was to assess the risk perceptions, attitudes, knowledge, and behaviors related to typhoon among rural residents in Zhejiang province of China. A cross-sectional study was conducted among rural residents in Zhejiang province, China. Information was collected from [...] Read more.

(1) The objective of this study was to assess the risk perceptions, attitudes, knowledge, and behaviors related to typhoon among rural residents in Zhejiang province of China. A cross-sectional study was conducted among rural residents in Zhejiang province, China. Information was collected from 659 participants using a structured questionnaire. Univariate analysis and multivariable analysis were used to analyze the data. Participants were most concerned about property damage, followed by their health and life. Television, short message service (SMS), relatives and friends were the most common information sources. Most people had not been educated with disaster prevention measures. The complementary log–log (CLL) model showed that understanding typhoon warning signal, preparation time, risk perception of health damage and life threat, and fears of typhoon were independent predictors of adoption of coping behaviors. We found that: 1. Residents’ risk perception of health and life threat caused by typhoon is inadequate; 2. There is a gap between residents’ cognition or knowledge and behavior in rural areas; 3. The government should further make strategies to develop educational activities, in order to eliminate the gap and improve the ability of preparing for typhoon among rural residents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

11 pages, 334 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Beverage Intake, Smoking Behavior, and Alcohol Consumption in Contemporary China—A Cross-Sectional Analysis from the 2011 China Health and Nutrition Survey

by Yen-Han Lee^1,*,†, Zhi Wang¹, Timothy C. Chiang² and Ching-Ti Liu³

¹ School of Public Health, Department of Applied Health Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA

² College of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, PA 17033, USA

³ School of Public Health, Department of Biostatistics, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA

^† Current email address: leeyen@umail.iu.edu.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 493; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050493 - 7 May 2017

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 6367 | Correction

Abstract

Chinese residents enjoy various types of beverages in their daily life. With the rapid Westernization of contemporary China, several adverse health concerns—such as diabetes linked to sweetened beverages—have emerged. Until now, no research that examines associations between beverage consumption and smoking/drinking behaviors has [...] Read more.

Chinese residents enjoy various types of beverages in their daily life. With the rapid Westernization of contemporary China, several adverse health concerns—such as diabetes linked to sweetened beverages—have emerged. Until now, no research that examines associations between beverage consumption and smoking/drinking behaviors has been made available, despite the large Chinese populations partaking in such activities. We conducted a cross-sectional study to explore the association between beverage intake frequencies and smoking/drinking behaviors in 12,658 adult respondents who participated in the latest wave (2011) of the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS). Further, we applied Tukey’s Honest Significance test for pairwise comparisons. We defined the consumption categories as daily (at least one serving per day), weekly (less than one serving per day, at least one serving per week), monthly (less than one serving per week, at least one serving per month), and less than monthly or none—for sweetened beverage, water, tea, and coffee consumptions. The data showed that both tea and sweetened beverages are associated with smoking/drinking behaviors. Compared to respondents who consume tea and sweetened beverages daily, the odds of smoking behaviors are lower for those who consume such beverages less frequently. Further policy implications are discussed, including higher taxes on sweetened beverages and lessons from other countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Health Behavior and Public Health)

11 pages, 475 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Infectious Diseases and Tropical Cyclones in Southeast China

by Jietao Zheng¹

, Weixiao Han¹, Baofa Jiang^1,2, Wei Ma^1,2,* and Ying Zhang^2,3,*

¹ Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan 250012, China

² Climate Change and Health Center, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan 250012, China

³ School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 494; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050494 - 7 May 2017

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 6282

Abstract

Southeast China is frequently hit by tropical cyclones (TCs) with significant economic and health burdens each year. However, there is a lack of understanding of what infectious diseases could be affected by tropical cyclones. This study aimed to examine the impacts of tropical [...] Read more.

Southeast China is frequently hit by tropical cyclones (TCs) with significant economic and health burdens each year. However, there is a lack of understanding of what infectious diseases could be affected by tropical cyclones. This study aimed to examine the impacts of tropical cyclones on notifiable infectious diseases in southeast China. Disease data between 2005 and 2011 from four coastal provinces in southeast China, including Guangdong, Hainan, Zhejiang, and Fujian province, were collected. Numbers of cases of 14 infectious diseases were compared between risk periods and reference periods for each tropical cyclone. Risk ratios (RRs) were calculated to estimate the risks. TCs were more likely to increase the risk of bacillary dysentery, paratyphoid fever, dengue fever and acute hemorrhagic conjunctivitis (ps < 0.05) than to decrease the risk, more likely to decrease the risk of measles, mumps, varicella and vivax malaria (ps < 0.05) than to increase the risk. In conclusion, TCs have mixed effects on the risk of infectious diseases. TCs are more likely to increase the risk of intestinal and contact transmitted infectious diseases than to decrease the risk, and more likely to decrease the risk of respiratory infectious diseases than to increase the risk. Findings of this study would assist in developing public health strategies and interventions for the reduction of the adverse health impacts from tropical cyclones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extreme Weather and Public Health)

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16 pages, 1629 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hospitalizations in Pediatric and Adult Patients for All Cancer Type in Italy: The EPIKIT Study under the E.U. COHEIRS Project on Environment and Health

by Prisco Piscitelli^1,*

, Immacolata Marino², Andrea Falco¹, Matteo Rivezzi¹, Roberto Romano³, Restituta Mazzella³, Cosimo Neglia³, Giulia Della Rosa³, Giuseppe Pellerano³, Giuseppe Militerno⁴, Adriana Bonifacino⁵

, Gaetano Rivezzi⁶, Roberto Romizi⁷, Giuseppe Miserotti⁸, Maurizio Montella⁹, Fabrizio Bianchi¹⁰, Alessandra Marinelli¹¹, Antonella De Donno¹²

, Giovanni De Filippis¹³, Giuseppe Serravezza¹³, Gianluca Di Tanna¹⁴, Dennis Black¹⁵, Valerio Gennaro¹⁶

, Mario Ascolese¹⁷, Alessandro Distante³, Ernesto Burgio^18,†, Massimo Crespi^19,§ and Annamaria Colao^20,‡ Show full author list Hide full author list

¹ Medicina Futura Research, Southern Italy Hospital Institute (IOS), Centro Direzionale, Isola E3, Palazzo Avalon, 80143 Naples, Italy

² Department of Economics and Statistics and CSEF, University Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy

³ Euro Mediterranean Scientific Bio-Medical Institute, ISBEM, 72023 Mesagne (Brindisi), Italy

⁴ Local Health Authority ASL Napoli 3 South, 80100 Naples, Italy

⁵ St. Andrea Hospital, La Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy

⁶ Division of Neonatology, St. Anna & St. Sebastiano Hospital, 81100 Caserta, Italy

⁷ Local Health Authority USL 8, 52100 Arezzo, Italy

⁸ Local Health Authority USL Piacenza, 29121 Piacenza, Italy

⁹ IRCCS G. Pascale Foundation, National Cancer Institute, 80131 Naples, Italy

¹⁰ National Research Council, CNR-IFC, 56121 Pisa, Italy

¹¹ Department of Experimental Medicine, Second University of Naples (SUN), 80138 Naples, Italy

¹² Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (DISTEBA), University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy

¹³ Local Health Authority ASL LE, 73100 Lecce, Italy

¹⁴ Centre of Primary Care and Public Health, Queen Mary University of London, London E14NS, UK

¹⁵ Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA 94158, USA

¹⁶ National Cancer Institute IRCCS San Martino, 16121 Genova, Italy

¹⁷ Division of Pediatric Surgery, Salerno University Hospital “Ruggi D’Aragona”, 84100 Salerno, Italy

¹⁸ European Cancer and Environment Research Institute (ECERI), 21004 Bruxelles, Belgium

¹⁹ Collegium Ramazzini, Bologna 40010, Italy

²⁰ Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy

^† In memory of Prof. Massimo Crespi for his outstanding contribution to Epidemiology and Public Health throughout all his life.

^‡ On behalf of the EPIKIT (Epidemiology of Cancer in Italy) Study Group under COHEIRS Project on Precautionary Principle (Europe for Citizens Program 2013–2014).

^§ Deceased in September 2015.

Show full affiliation list Hide full affiliation list

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 495; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050495 - 9 May 2017

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5760

Abstract

Background: Cancer Registries (CRs) remain the gold standard for providing official epidemiological estimations. However, due to CRs’ partial population coverage, hospitalization records might represent a valuable tool to provide additional information on cancer occurrence and expenditures at national/regional level for research purposes. [...] Read more.

Background: Cancer Registries (CRs) remain the gold standard for providing official epidemiological estimations. However, due to CRs’ partial population coverage, hospitalization records might represent a valuable tool to provide additional information on cancer occurrence and expenditures at national/regional level for research purposes. The Epidemiology of Cancer in Italy (EPIKIT) study group has been built up, within the framework of the Civic Observers for Health and Environment: Initiative of Responsibility and Sustainability (COHEIRS) project under the auspices of the Europe for Citizens Program, to assess population health indicators. Objective: To assess the burden of all cancers in Italian children and adults. Methods: We analyzed National Hospitalization Records from 2001 to 2011. Based on social security numbers (anonymously treated), we have excluded from our analyses all re-hospitalizations of the same patients (n = 1,878,109) over the entire 11-year period in order to minimize the overlap between prevalent and incident cancer cases. To be more conservative, only data concerning the last five years (2007–2011) have been taken into account for final analyses. The absolute number of hospitalizations and standardized hospitalization rates (SHR) were computed for each Italian province by sex and age-groups (0–19 and 20–49). Results: The EPIKIT database included a total of 4,113,169 first hospital admissions due to main diagnoses of all tumors. The annual average number of hospital admissions due to cancer in Italy has been computed in 2362 and 43,141 hospitalizations in pediatric patients (0–19 years old) and adults (20–49 years old), respectively. Women accounted for the majority of cancer cases in adults aged 20–49. As expected, the big city of Rome presented the highest average annual number of pediatric cancers (n = 392, SHR = 9.9), followed by Naples (n = 378; SHR = 9.9) and Milan (n = 212; SHR = 7.3). However, when we look at SHR, minor cities (i.e., Imperia, Isernia and others) presented values >10 per 100,000, with only 10 or 20 cases per year. Similar figures are shown also for young adults aged 20–49. Conclusions: In addition to SHR, the absolute number of incident cancer cases represents a crucial piece of information for planning adequate healthcare services and assessing social alarm phenomena. Our findings call for specific risk assessment programs at local level (involving CRs) to search for causal relations with environmental exposures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Diseases)

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23 pages, 7777 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Drought Implications on Ecosystem Services: Freshwater Provisioning and Food Provisioning in the Upper Mississippi River Basin

by Ping Li^1,2,*, Nina Omani², Indrajeet Chaubey^2,3 and Xiaomei Wei¹

¹ College of Water Resources and Architectural Engineering, Northwest A&F University, 23 Weihui Road, Yangling 712100, China

² Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences, Purdue University, 550 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA

³ Department of Agriculture and Biological Engineering, Purdue University, 225 South University Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 496; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050496 - 8 May 2017

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 6515

Abstract

Drought is one of the most widespread extreme climate events with a potential to alter freshwater availability and related ecosystem services. Given the interconnectedness between freshwater availability and many ecosystem services, including food provisioning, it is important to evaluate the drought implications on [...] Read more.

Drought is one of the most widespread extreme climate events with a potential to alter freshwater availability and related ecosystem services. Given the interconnectedness between freshwater availability and many ecosystem services, including food provisioning, it is important to evaluate the drought implications on freshwater provisioning and food provisioning services. Studies about drought implications on streamflow, nutrient loads, and crop yields have been increased and these variables are all process-based model outputs that could represent ecosystem functions that contribute to the ecosystem services. However, few studies evaluate drought effects on ecosystem services such as freshwater and food provisioning and quantify these services using an index-based ecosystem service approach. In this study, the drought implications on freshwater and food provisioning services were evaluated for 14 four-digit HUC (Hydrological Unit Codes) subbasins in the Upper Mississippi River Basin (UMRB), using three drought indices: standardized precipitation index (SPI), standardized soil water content index (SSWI), and standardized streamflow index (SSI). The results showed that the seasonal freshwater provisioning was highly affected by the precipitation deficits and/or surpluses in summer and autumn. A greater importance of hydrological drought than meteorological drought implications on freshwater provisioning was evident for the majority of the subbasins, as evidenced by higher correlations between freshwater provisioning and SSI12 than SPI12. Food provisioning was substantially affected by the precipitation and soil water deficits during summer and early autumn, with relatively less effect observed in winter. A greater importance of agricultural drought effects on food provisioning was evident for most of the subbasins during crop reproductive stages. Results from this study may provide insights to help make effective land management decisions in responding to extreme climate conditions in order to protect and restore freshwater provisioning and food provisioning services in the UMRB. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)

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18 pages, 2614 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chemical Characterization of the Indoor Air Quality of a University Hospital: Penetration of Outdoor Air Pollutants

by Paul T. J. Scheepers^1,*, Luuk Van Wel^1,2, Gwendolyn Beckmann¹ and Rob B. M. Anzion¹

¹ Research Lab Molecular Epidemiology, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboudumc, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands

² Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Yalelaan 2, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 497; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050497 - 8 May 2017

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 7273

Abstract

For healthcare centers, local outdoor sources of air pollution represent a potential threat to indoor air quality (IAQ). The aim of this study was to study the impact of local outdoor sources of air pollution on the IAQ of a university hospital. IAQ [...] Read more.

For healthcare centers, local outdoor sources of air pollution represent a potential threat to indoor air quality (IAQ). The aim of this study was to study the impact of local outdoor sources of air pollution on the IAQ of a university hospital. IAQ was characterized at thirteen indoor and two outdoor locations and source samples were collected from a helicopter and an emergency power supply. Volatile organic compounds (VOC), acrolein, formaldehyde, nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), respirable particulate matter (PM-4.0 and PM-2.5) and their respective benz(a)pyrene contents were determined over a period of two weeks. Time-weighted average concentrations of NO₂ (4.9–17.4 μg/m³) and formaldehyde (2.5–6.4 μg/m³) were similar on all indoor and outdoor locations. The median concentration VOC in indoor air was 119 μg/m³ (range: 33.1–2450 μg/m³) and was fivefold higher in laboratories (316 μg/m³) compared to offices (57.0 μg/m³). PM-4.0 and benzo(a)pyrene concentration were lower in buildings serviced by a >99.95% efficiency particle filter, compared to buildings using a standard 80–90% efficiency filter (p < 0.01). No indications were found that support a significant contribution of known local sources such as fuels or combustion engines to any of the IAQ parameters measured in this study. Chemical IAQ was primarily driven by known indoor sources and activities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indoor Air Quality and Health 2016)

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21 pages, 343 KiB

Open AccessReview

Dogs in the Workplace: A Review of the Benefits and Potential Challenges

by Anne M. Foreman^1,*, Margaret K. Glenn², B. Jean Meade³ and Oliver Wirth¹

¹ National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA

² College of Education and Human Services, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA

³ Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 498; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050498 - 8 May 2017

Cited by 53 | Viewed by 36925

Abstract

Pet dogs, therapy dogs, and service dogs can be seen in workplaces with increasing frequency. Although dogs may provide many benefits to employees and employers, their presence may introduce additional hazards and concerns to the work environment. Therefore, decisions to accept dogs in [...] Read more.

Pet dogs, therapy dogs, and service dogs can be seen in workplaces with increasing frequency. Although dogs may provide many benefits to employees and employers, their presence may introduce additional hazards and concerns to the work environment. Therefore, decisions to accept dogs in the workplace may include many considerations including the health, safety, and well-being of employees, legal and cultural sensitivities, and animal welfare. The present paper serves to introduce the issue of dogs in the workplace and outline the potential benefits and challenges to their presence. The legal accommodations afforded to certain types of dogs in workplace settings are discussed, and the research findings pertaining to the potential benefits of dogs on human health and well-being are summarized. The paper concludes with considerations for human resource management personnel in the areas of diversity, employee relations, ethics and corporate responsibility, organizational and employee development, safety and security, and legal considerations, as well as suggested topics for future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Assisted Interventions and Activities for Health and Wellbeing)

7 pages, 605 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pattern of Visits to Older Family Physicians in Taiwan

by Hao-Yen Liu¹

, Cheng-Chieh Liu¹, Tzu-Hsiang Shen¹, Yi-Jen Wang¹

, Jui-Yao Liu^1,2,*, Tzeng-Ji Chen^1,2

, Li-Fang Chou³ and Shinn-Jang Hwang^1,2

¹ Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, No. 201, Sec. 2, Shi-Pai Road, Taipei 112, Taiwan

² School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, No. 155, Sec. 2, Linong Street, Taipei 112, Taiwan

³ Department of Public Finance, National Chengchi University, No. 64, Sec. 2, Zhi-Nan Road, Taipei 116, Taiwan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 499; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050499 - 8 May 2017

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4319

Abstract

Many family physicians still practice at an old age. Nevertheless, their practice patterns have scarcely been studied. To address this lack of research, the current study analyzed claims data for a total of 2,018,440 visits to 171 family physicians in 2011 sourced from [...] Read more.

Many family physicians still practice at an old age. Nevertheless, their practice patterns have scarcely been studied. To address this lack of research, the current study analyzed claims data for a total of 2,018,440 visits to 171 family physicians in 2011 sourced from Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Research Database. Family physicians aged 65 years and over had fewer patients (mean: 2330, standard deviation (SD): 2019) and visits (mean: 9220, SD: 8600) than younger physicians had. Furthermore, the average age of the patients who visited physicians aged 65 years and over was 51.9 (SD: 21.5) years, significantly higher than that of patients who visited younger physicians. However, the proportions of visits for upper respiratory tract infections, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia did not differ significantly among different age groups of physicians. In the future, the manpower planning of physicians should take into consideration the age structure and work profile of physicians. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

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11 pages, 4721 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Presence of Anti-Angiotensin II Type-1 Receptor Antibodies Adversely Affect Kidney Graft Outcomes

by Jian Zhang^1,2,3,†, Mingxu Wang^3,†, Jun Liang^3,†, Ming Zhang^4,*, Xiao-Hong Liu^1,* and Le Ma^3,5,*

¹ The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University College of Medicine, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi’an 710061, China

² Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China

³ School of Public Health, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, 76 Yanta West Road, Xi’an 710061, China

⁴ Xi’an Honghui Hospital, 555 Friendship Road, Xi’an 710054, China

⁵ Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases (Xi’an Jiaotong University), Ministry of Education of China, Xi’an 710061, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 500; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050500 - 9 May 2017

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3992

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine whether anti-angiotensin type 1 receptor antibodies (AT1R-Abs) are related to acute rejection (AR) and kidney graft failure in renal transplantation. We searched electronic databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the ISI Web of Science databases for [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to determine whether anti-angiotensin type 1 receptor antibodies (AT1R-Abs) are related to acute rejection (AR) and kidney graft failure in renal transplantation. We searched electronic databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the ISI Web of Science databases for all studies on the association between anti-angiotensin type 1 receptor antibodies and kidney allograft outcomes updated to November 2016. Reference lists from included articles were also reviewed. The pooled relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were extracted or calculated using a random-effects model. The potential sources of heterogeneity and publication bias were estimated. Nine studies enrolling 1771 subjects were retrieved in the meta-analysis. AT1R-Abs showed significant associations with increased risk of AR (RR = 1.66; 95% CI, 1.23–2.09). In addition, a significant relationship was found between AT1R-Abs and kidney graft failure compared with AR (RR = 3.02; 95% CI, 1.77–4.26). The results were essentially consistent among subgroups stratified by participant characteristics. These results demonstrated that the AT1R-Abs were associated with an elevated risk of kidney allograft outcomes, especially with kidney graft failure. Large-scale studies are still required to further verify these findings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

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9 pages, 309 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Break in Sedentary Behavior Reduces the Risk of Noncommunicable Diseases and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors among Workers in a Petroleum Company

by Chutima Jalayondeja^1,*, Wattana Jalayondeja¹, Keerin Mekhora¹, Petcharatana Bhuanantanondh¹, Asadang Dusadi-Isariyavong²

and Rujiret Upiriyasakul¹

¹ Faculty of Physical Therapy, Mahidol University, Salaya 73170, Thailand

² Medical and Occupational Health, PTT Exploration and Production Public Company Limited, Bangkok 10900, Thailand

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 501; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050501 - 9 May 2017

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 6430

Abstract

Although prolonged sitting appears as a novel risk factor related to health outcomes for all ages, its association needs to be replicated in occupational conditions. This study explored the associations between sedentary behavior and four noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) as well as two cardiometabolic [...] Read more.

Although prolonged sitting appears as a novel risk factor related to health outcomes for all ages, its association needs to be replicated in occupational conditions. This study explored the associations between sedentary behavior and four noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) as well as two cardiometabolic risk factors (CMRFs) among workers in a petroleum company, Thailand. All workers were invited to complete the online self-report questionnaire. Sedentary behavior was measured as the amount of time sitting at work, during recreation, and while commuting. Out of 3365 workers contacted, 1133 (34%) participated. Prevalence of NCDs and CMRFs was 36% and was positively associated with sedentary behavior. After adjusting for age, BMI, and exercise, the risk of NCDs and CMRFs for sedentary office work was 40% greater compared with more active field work. Those who took a break without sitting more than twice a day and commuted by walking or cycling had less risk of NCDs and CMRFs. The total duration of sedentary behavior was 10 h/day, and two-thirds of that total was workplace sitting. This was significantly associated with NCDs and CMRFs (p < 0.001). Day-and-night rotating shiftwork was negatively associated with NCDs and CMRFs (p < 0.001). Sedentary behavior should be considered a health risk among workers. Hence, to promote a healthy lifestyle and safe workplace, organizations should encourage standing activities during break and physically active commutes, and have workers avoid prolonged sitting. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impacts of Physical Activity on Chronic Disease Prevention and Population Health)

9 pages, 284 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differences in Sleep Duration among Four Different Population Groups of Older Adults in South Africa

by Karl Peltzer^1,2

¹ HIV/AIDS/STIs and TB (HAST), Human Sciences Research Council, Pretoria 0001, South Africa

² Department of Research and Innovation, University of Limpopo, Sovenga 0727, South Africa

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 502; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050502 - 9 May 2017

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4669

Abstract

The study aims to investigate sleep duration in four different population groups in a national probability sample of older South Africans who participated in the Study of Global Ageing and Adult Health (SAGE) Wave 1. A national population-based cross-sectional study with a sample [...] Read more.

The study aims to investigate sleep duration in four different population groups in a national probability sample of older South Africans who participated in the Study of Global Ageing and Adult Health (SAGE) Wave 1. A national population-based cross-sectional study with a sample of 3284 aged 50 years or older in South Africa was conducted in 2008. The questionnaire included socio-demographic characteristics, health variables, and self-reported sleep duration. Results indicate that White Africans compared to other population groups had the lowest mean sleep duration (7.88 h among men and 7.46 h among women). The prevalence of short sleep was the highest among both men and women among the White African (18.8% in men and 16.9% in women) and Indian or Asian African population groups (14.5% in men and 17.1% in women), and lowest among both men and women in the Black African (7.0% in men and 6.5% in women) and multi-ancestry population groups (15.6% in men and 12.7% in women). The prevalence of long sleep was among both men and women the highest in the Black African population group (56.2% in men and 58.5% in women), and the lowest in the White African population group (36.4% in men and 24.3% in women). In a Poisson regression model, adjusted for sociodemographics and chronic disease status, coming from the male and female White African population group was associated with short sleep. In addition, coming from the Indian or Asian African population group was associated with short sleep. No population group differences were found regarding long sleep prevalence. White Africans reported more short sleep duration than the other population groups, while there were no racial or ethnic differences in long sleep. White Africans are more likely to have sleep durations that are associated with negative health outcomes. An explanation of the high short sleep prevalence among White Africans may be related to their racial or ethnic minority status in South Africa. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sleep Health)

13 pages, 1324 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Extensions to Multivariate Space Time Mixture Modeling of Small Area Cancer Data

by Rachel Carroll^1,*

, Andrew B. Lawson¹, Christel Faes²

, Russell S. Kirby³

, Mehreteab Aregay¹ and Kevin Watjou²

¹ Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, 135 Cannon St, Charleston, SC 29425, USA

² Interuniversity Institute for Statistics and Statistical Bioinformatics, Hasselt University, 3500 Hasselt, Belgium

³ Department of Community and Family Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 503; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050503 - 9 May 2017

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4103

Abstract

Oral cavity and pharynx cancer, even when considered together, is a fairly rare disease. Implementation of multivariate modeling with lung and bronchus cancer, as well as melanoma cancer of the skin, could lead to better inference for oral cavity and pharynx cancer. The [...] Read more.

Oral cavity and pharynx cancer, even when considered together, is a fairly rare disease. Implementation of multivariate modeling with lung and bronchus cancer, as well as melanoma cancer of the skin, could lead to better inference for oral cavity and pharynx cancer. The multivariate structure of these models is accomplished via the use of shared random effects, as well as other multivariate prior distributions. The results in this paper indicate that care should be taken when executing these types of models, and that multivariate mixture models may not always be the ideal option, depending on the data of interest. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Modelling for Public Health Research)

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11 pages, 288 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship between Environmental Tobacco Smoke Exposure and Cardiovascular Disease and the Potential Modifying Effect of Diet in a Prospective Cohort among American Indians: The Strong Heart Study

by Sarah Rajkumar¹, Amanda M. Fretts², Barbara V. Howard^3,4, Fawn Yeh⁵ and Maggie L. Clark^1,*

¹ Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA

² Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA

³ Medstar Health Research Institute, Hyattsville, MD 20782, USA

⁴ Georgetown/Howard Universities Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Washington, DC 20007, USA

⁵ Center for American Indian Health Research, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73190, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 504; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050504 - 9 May 2017

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4624

Abstract

American Indians experience high rates of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) has been linked to CVD, possibly due to pro-inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways. We examined the relationship between self-reported exposure to ETS and fatal and nonfatal CVD incidence using Cox [...] Read more.

American Indians experience high rates of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) has been linked to CVD, possibly due to pro-inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways. We examined the relationship between self-reported exposure to ETS and fatal and nonfatal CVD incidence using Cox proportional hazards models among 1843 non-smoking American Indians participating in the Strong Heart Study. We also evaluated potential modifying effects of several dietary nutrients high in anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties with ETS exposure on fatal and nonfatal CVD by creating interaction terms between ETS exposure and the dietary variable. Participants exposed to ETS had a higher hazard (hazard ratio: 1.22; 95% confidence interval, 1.03 to 1.44) for developing CVD compared to persons not exposed. Interaction analyses suggested stronger effects of ETS on CVD incidence among those consuming diets lower in vitamin E as compared to those consuming higher amounts, particularly on the additive scale. Additional research is recommended to clarify whether public health prevention strategies should simultaneously target reductions in ETS exposures and improvements in diets that may exceed the expected benefits of targeting these risk factors separately. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)

10 pages, 318 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Apolipoprotein C-I Polymorphism and Its Association with Serum Lipid Levels and Longevity in the Bama Population

by You Li^1,†, Yongquan Huang^2,†, Xue Liang², Bingshuang Long², Shiyi Chen², Jiahao Lian², Yi Wei², Zhiyong Zhang^2,* and Jian Qin^2,*

¹ Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Faculty of Public Health, Dali University, Dali 671000, China

² Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Shuangyong Road No.22, Nanning 530021, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 505; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050505 - 9 May 2017

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3997

Abstract

This study aims to determine the association between the apolipoprotein C-I polymorphism and the longevity and genetic variants in ApoC-I that can influence the serum lipid levels in Bama. ApoC-I genotypes were determined by Taqman single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping assays in 178 [...] Read more.

This study aims to determine the association between the apolipoprotein C-I polymorphism and the longevity and genetic variants in ApoC-I that can influence the serum lipid levels in Bama. ApoC-I genotypes were determined by Taqman single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping assays in 178 long-lived inhabitants (longevity group aged from 90 to 110 years), 147 healthy controls (Control 1 group aged from 40 to 79 years old) from Bama County, and 190 healthy controls (Control 2 group aged from 40 to 79 years old) from Nandan County without a family history of longevity. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS 16.0. All genotype distributions of rs584007 and rs4420638 were consistent with the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (p > 0.05). Significant differences were observed in the frequencies of the three genotypes (GG, AG, and AA) among the longevity and the two control groups (χ² = 11.238, p = 0.024) for rs584007. No significant differences were observed in the frequencies of the three genotypes (GG, AG, and AA) among the longevity and the two control groups (χ² = 4.587, p = 0.318) for rs4420638. The levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-c), and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-c) were not different among the three genotypes of rs584007 in the three groups. The levels of HDL-c for GG, AG, and AA were significantly different (the highest being in the longevity group), while the levels of TG for AA and AG genotypes (the lowest being in the longevity group) and the levels of LDL-c for AG were significantly different (p < 0.05) among the three groups for rs584007. The levels of TG and HDL-c were significantly different among the three rs4420638 genotypes in the longevity group. The levels of TC for GG, AG, and AA were significantly different in the Control 2 group, while the levels of TG and HDL-c for AA and AG genotypes were significantly different (p < 0.05) among the three groups for rs4420638. The level of HDL-c was highest in the longevity group for AA and AG genotypes, and the level of TG was highest in the Control 2 group for rs4420638. Serum lipid parameters were related to environmental factors, including age, gender, BMI, DBP, SBP, rs4420638, and rs584007. The ApoC-I polymorphism might be one of the genetic factors of longevity in Bama. The ApoC-I rs4420638 and rs584007 SNPs are associated with serum TG and HDL-c levels in the longevous population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

20 pages, 2301 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Pesticide Profiles Used on Agricultural Fields near Maternal Residences during Pregnancy and IQ at Age 7 Years

by Eric Coker^1,*, Robert Gunier¹, Asa Bradman¹, Kim Harley¹

, Katherine Kogut¹, John Molitor²

and Brenda Eskenazi¹

¹ School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94703, USA

² College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 506; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050506 - 9 May 2017

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 9100

Abstract

We previously showed that potential prenatal exposure to agricultural pesticides was associated with adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in children, yet the effects of joint exposure to multiple pesticides is poorly understood. In this paper, we investigate associations between the joint distribution of agricultural use [...] Read more.

We previously showed that potential prenatal exposure to agricultural pesticides was associated with adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in children, yet the effects of joint exposure to multiple pesticides is poorly understood. In this paper, we investigate associations between the joint distribution of agricultural use patterns of multiple pesticides (denoted as “pesticide profiles”) applied near maternal residences during pregnancy and Full-Scale Intelligence Quotient (FSIQ) at 7 years of age. Among a cohort of children residing in California’s Salinas Valley, we used Pesticide Use Report (PUR) data to characterize potential exposure from use within 1 km of maternal residences during pregnancy for 15 potentially neurotoxic pesticides from five different chemical classes. We used Bayesian profile regression (BPR) to examine associations between clustered pesticide profiles and deficits in childhood FSIQ. BPR identified eight distinct clusters of prenatal pesticide profiles. Two of the pesticide profile clusters exhibited some of the highest cumulative pesticide use levels and were associated with deficits in adjusted FSIQ of −6.9 (95% credible interval: −11.3, −2.2) and −6.4 (95% credible interval: −13.1, 0.49), respectively, when compared with the pesticide profile cluster that showed the lowest level of pesticides use. Although maternal residence during pregnancy near high agricultural use of multiple neurotoxic pesticides was associated with FSIQ deficit, the magnitude of the associations showed potential for sub-additive effects. Epidemiologic analysis of pesticides and their potential health effects can benefit from a multi-pollutant approach to analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Chemical Mixture at Low Concentration and Children’s Health)

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14 pages, 1008 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Human Indoor Exposure to Airborne Halogenated Flame Retardants: Influence of Airborne Particle Size

by Mark J. La Guardia^1,*, Erika D. Schreder², Nancy Uding² and Robert C. Hale¹

¹ College of William & Mary, Virginia Institute of Marine Science, P.O. Box 1346, Gloucester Point, VA 23062, USA

² Toxic-Free Future, 4649 Sunnyside Ave N, Suite 540, Seattle, WA 98103, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 507; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050507 - 9 May 2017

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 6193

Abstract

Inhalation of halogenated flame-retardants (HFRs) released from consumer products is an important route of exposure. However, not all airborne HFRs are respirable, and thus interact with vascular membranes within the gas exchange (alveolar) region of the lung. HFRs associated with large (>4 µm), [...] Read more.

Inhalation of halogenated flame-retardants (HFRs) released from consumer products is an important route of exposure. However, not all airborne HFRs are respirable, and thus interact with vascular membranes within the gas exchange (alveolar) region of the lung. HFRs associated with large (>4 µm), inhalable airborne particulates are trapped on the mucosal lining of the respiratory tract and then are expelled or swallowed. The latter may contribute to internal exposure via desorption from particles in the digestive tract. Exposures may also be underestimated if personal activities that re-suspend particles into the breathing zone are not taken into account. Here, samples were collected using personal air samplers, clipped to the participants’ shirt collars (n = 18). We observed that the larger, inhalable air particulates carried the bulk (>92%) of HFRs. HFRs detected included those removed from commerce (i.e., polybrominated diphenyl ethers (Penta-BDEs: BDE-47, -85, -100, -99, and -153)), their replacements; e.g., 2-ethylhexyl 2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate (TBB or EH-TBB); bis(2-ethylhexyl) 3,4,5,6-tetrabromophthalate (TBPH or BEH-TEBP) and long-produced chlorinated organophosphate-FRs (ClOPFRs): tris(2-chloroethyl)phosphate (TCEP), tris(1-chloro-2-propyl)phosphate (TCPP or TCIPP), and tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl)phosphate (TDCPP or TDCIPP). Our findings suggest estimates relying on a single exposure route, i.e., alveolar gas exchange, may not accurately estimate HFR internal dosage, as they ignore contributions from larger inhalable particulates that enter the digestive tract. Consideration of the fate and bioavailability of these larger particulates resulted in higher dosage estimates for HFRs with log K_oa < 12 (i.e., Penta-BDEs and ClOPFRs) and lower estimates for those with log K_oa > 12 (i.e., TBB and TBPH) compared to the alveolar route exposure alone. Of those HFRs examined, the most significant effect was the lower estimate by 41% for TBPH. The bulk of TBPH uptake from inhaled particles was estimated to be through the digestive tract, with lower bioavailability. We compared inhalation exposure estimates to chronic oral reference doses (RfDs) established by several regulatory agencies. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) RfD levels for several HFRs are considered outdated; however, BDE-99 levels exceeded those suggested by the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) by up to 26 times. These findings indicate that contributions and bioavailability of respirable and inhalable airborne particulates should both be considered in future risk assessments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indoor Air Quality and Health 2016)

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14 pages, 4640 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Analysis of Ambient PM_2.5 Exposure and Bladder Cancer Mortality in Taiwan

by Hsin-Ling Yeh¹

, Shang-Wei Hsu², Yu-Chia Chang², Ta-Chien Chan³

, Hui-Chen Tsou¹, Yen-Chen Chang¹ and Po-Huang Chiang^1,4,*

¹ Institute of Population Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan 350, Taiwan

² Department of Healthcare Administration, Asia University, Taichung 413, Taiwan

³ Research Center for Humanities and Social Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan

⁴ Department of Public Health, China Medical University, Taichung 400, Taiwan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 508; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050508 - 10 May 2017

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 7051

Abstract

Fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) is an air pollutant that is receiving intense regulatory attention in Taiwan. In previous studies, the effect of air pollution on bladder cancer has been explored. This study was conducted to elucidate the effect of atmospheric PM [...] Read more.

Fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) is an air pollutant that is receiving intense regulatory attention in Taiwan. In previous studies, the effect of air pollution on bladder cancer has been explored. This study was conducted to elucidate the effect of atmospheric PM_2.5 and other local risk factors on bladder cancer mortality based on available 13-year mortality data. Geographically weighted regression (GWR) was applied to estimate and interpret the spatial variability of the relationships between bladder cancer mortality and ambient PM_2.5 concentrations, and other variables were covariates used to adjust for the effect of PM_2.5. After applying a GWR model, the concentration of ambient PM_2.5 showed a positive correlation with bladder cancer mortality in males in northern Taiwan and females in most of the townships in Taiwan. This is the first time PM_2.5 has been identified as a risk factor for bladder cancer based on the statistical evidence provided by GWR analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Policy Focused Approach to Public Health and Air, Water and/or Soil Pollution)

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12 pages, 423 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Underweight, Stunting and Wasting among Children in Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania; a Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study

by Melina Mgongo^1,2,*, Nikolas A. S. Chotta¹, Tamara H. Hashim^2,3, Jacqueline G. Uriyo^1,2, Damian J. Damian^4,5, Babill Stray-Pedersen^1,2,6, Sia E. Msuya^2,4,5, Margareta Wandel³ and Siri Vangen^1,6,7

¹ Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, 0863 Oslo, Norway

² Better Health for African Mother and Child, P.O. Box 8418, Moshi, Tanzania

³ Department of Nutrition, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1046, 0317 Oslo, Norway

⁴ Institute of Public Health, Department of Community Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, P.O. Box 2240, Moshi, Tanzania

⁵ Institute of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, P.O. Box 2240, Moshi, Tanzania

⁶ Division of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, 0863 Oslo, Norway

⁷ Norwegian National Advisory Unit for Women’s Health, 0863 Oslo, Norway

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 509; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050509 - 10 May 2017

Cited by 41 | Viewed by 10613

Abstract

This study assessed the prevalence and risk factors associated with underweight, stunting and wasting among children aged 0–24 months in six districts of Kilimanjaro region, northern Tanzania. A cross-sectional population-based study using a multistage, proportionate to size sampling was conducted from June 2010 [...] Read more.

This study assessed the prevalence and risk factors associated with underweight, stunting and wasting among children aged 0–24 months in six districts of Kilimanjaro region, northern Tanzania. A cross-sectional population-based study using a multistage, proportionate to size sampling was conducted from June 2010 to March 2011. A structured questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic, economic, feeding and child information. Anthropometric data were collected by trained field workers, and the data were used to assess child nutritional status. A total of 1870 children were enrolled in this study. The prevalence of children classified as underweight was 46.0%, stunting was 41.9%, and wasting was 24.7%. About 33% were both underweight and stunted, and 12% had all three conditions. In a multivariate logistic regression, child age, child being ill and birth weight were associated with all anthropometric indices. Child being breastfed was associated with being underweight and wasting. Mother’s education was associated with being underweight and stunting. Fathers aged 35+ years, and living in the Hai district was associated with stunting, and being female was associated with wasting. The prevalence of child undernutrition is high in this region. Strategies that target each risk factor for child undernutrition may help to reduce the problem in the region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

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16 pages, 2828 KiB

Open AccessArticle

What Type of Transitional Care Effectively Reduced Mortality and Improved ADL of Stroke Patients? A Meta-Analysis

by Yuncui Wang^1,†, Fen Yang^1,†, Hao Shi², Chongming Yang³ and Hui Hu^1,*

¹ School of Nursing, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Hong Shan District, Wuhan 430065, China

² Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, and the Ministry of Education Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China

³ Research Support Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA

^† These two authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 510; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050510 - 10 May 2017

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 6605

Abstract

Stroke is a major cause of disability and mortality worldwide; yet; prior to this study; there had been no sufficient evidence to support the effectiveness of various transitional care interventions (TCI) on the disability and mortality of stroke survivors. This meta-analysis aimed to [...] Read more.

Stroke is a major cause of disability and mortality worldwide; yet; prior to this study; there had been no sufficient evidence to support the effectiveness of various transitional care interventions (TCI) on the disability and mortality of stroke survivors. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the effectiveness of TCI in reducing mortality and improving the activities of daily life (ADL) of stroke patients. PubMed; Web of Science; OVID; EMBASE; CINAHL; and Sino-Med were searched for articles published before November 2016. Thirty-one randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified in the study. This analysis showed that the total effect of TCI on reducing mortality was limited (Risk Ratio (RR) = 0.86; 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.75–0.98); that only home-visiting programs could reduce mortality rates (RR = 0.34; 95% CI: 0.17–0.67) compared with usual care; and that the best intervention was led by a multidisciplinary team (MT) ≤3 months (RR = 0.19; 95% CI: 0.05–0.71). In addition; home-visiting programs also produced ADL benefit (RR = 0.56; 95% CI: 0.31–0.81). Overall; there was a statistically significant difference in improving patients’ independence between TCI and usual care (RR = 1.12; 95% CI: 1.02–1.23). However; none of the interventions was effective when they were differentiated in the analysis. It is the conclusion of this study that home-visiting programs; especially those led by MTs; should receive the greatest consideration by healthcare systems or providers for implementing TCI to stroke survivors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

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13 pages, 3682 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Validity of Research-Grade Actigraphy Unit for Measuring Exercise Intensity

by Ke-Tsung Han¹ and Po-Ching Wang^2,*

¹ Department of Landscape Architecture, National Chin-Yi University of Technology, 57 Sec. 2, Zhongshan Rd., Taichung City 41170, Taiwan

² Department of Landscape Architecture, National Chiayi University, 300 Syuefu Rd., Chiayi City 60004, Taiwan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 511; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050511 - 10 May 2017

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5447

Abstract

This study was conducted in a free-living setting to investigate the measurement validity of a research-based actigraph for strolling and jogging, and to provide a reference for actual practice and research. Because inadequate physical activity (PA) or sedentary lifestyle has become the fourth [...] Read more.

This study was conducted in a free-living setting to investigate the measurement validity of a research-based actigraph for strolling and jogging, and to provide a reference for actual practice and research. Because inadequate physical activity (PA) or sedentary lifestyle has become the fourth leading risk factor for mortality worldwide, many countries have been vigorously promoting the concept of “active living”, and the public has been investing greater effort into intensifying their PA. Although research-grade actigraphs have been widely applied to evaluate PA in routine environments, the measurement results may not accurately reflect the wearers’ PA. Unlike most relevant research, which is conducted in well-controlled laboratory environments, the present study was implemented in the field to examine the sensitivity and convergent validity of the MicroMini Motionlogger^® Actigraph during strolling and jogging. The following results were revealed: (1) Although the exercise movement speed while jogging was significantly faster than that while strolling, the actigraph readings showed no significant difference between strolling and jogging; (2) The actigraph readings were (significantly or nonsignificantly) negatively correlated with metabolic heat and nonsignificantly correlated with movement speeds. Hence, the actigraph validity for measuring PA intensity while strolling and jogging remains debatable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impacts of Physical Activity on Chronic Disease Prevention and Population Health)

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17 pages, 2217 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study Protocol for Applying User Participation and Co-Learning—Lessons Learned from the eBalance Project

by Anna Cristina Åberg^1,2,*, Kjartan Halvorsen³, Ingrid From¹, Åsa Bergman Bruhn¹, Lars Oestreicher⁴ and Anita Melander-Wikman⁵

¹ School of Education, Health and Social Studies, Dalarna University, SE-79188 Falun, Sweden

² Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Division of Geriatrics, Uppsala University, SE-75185 Uppsala, Sweden

³ Department of Information Technologies, Division of Systems and Control, Uppsala University, SE-75105 Uppsala, Sweden

⁴ Department of Information Technology, Division of Visual Information and Interaction, Uppsala University, SE-75105 Uppsala, Sweden

⁵ Department of Health Sciences, Division of Health and Rehab, Luleå University of Technology, SE-97187 Luleå, Sweden

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 512; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050512 - 10 May 2017

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 6738

Abstract

The eBalance project is based on the idea that serious exergames—i.e., computer gaming systems with an interface that requires physical exertion to play—that are well adapted to users, can become a substantial part of a solution to recognized problems of insufficient engagement in [...] Read more.

The eBalance project is based on the idea that serious exergames—i.e., computer gaming systems with an interface that requires physical exertion to play—that are well adapted to users, can become a substantial part of a solution to recognized problems of insufficient engagement in fall-prevention exercise and the high levels of fall-related injuries among older people. This project is carried out as a collaboration between eight older people who have an interest in balance training and met the inclusion criteria of independence in personal activities of daily living, access to and basic knowledge of a computer, four staff working with the rehabilitation of older adults, and an interdisciplinary group of six research coordinators covering the areas of geriatric care and rehabilitation, as well as information technology and computer science. This paper describes the study protocol of the project’s initial phase which aims to develop a working partnership with potential users of fall-prevention exergames, including its conceptual underpinnings. The qualitative methodology was inspired by an ethnographical approach implying combining methods that allowed the design to evolve through the study based on the participants’ reflections. A participatory and appreciative action and reflection (PAAR) approach, accompanied by inquiries inspired by the Normalization Process Theory (NPT) was used in interactive workshops, including exergame testing, and between workshop activities. Data were collected through audio recordings, photos, and different types of written documentation. The findings provide a description of the methodology thus developed and applied. They display a methodology that can be useful for the design and development of care service and innovations for older persons where user participation is in focus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Health Promotion)

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12 pages, 857 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hydration, Fluid Intake, and Related Urine Biomarkers among Male College Students in Cangzhou, China: A Cross-Sectional Study—Applications for Assessing Fluid Intake and Adequate Water Intake

by Na Zhang^1,2

, Songming Du³, Zhenchuang Tang⁴, Mengqi Zheng⁵, Ruixia Yan⁶, Yitang Zhu⁷ and Guansheng Ma^1,2,*

¹ Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China

² Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, School of Public Health, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China

³ Chinese Nutrition Society, 6 Guang An Men Nei Street, Xicheng District, Beijing 100053, China

⁴ Institute of Food and Nutrition Development, Ministry of Agriculture, 12 Zhong Guan Cun Nan Street, Haidian District, Beijing 100181, China

⁵ National Institute for Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 29 Nan Wei Road, Xicheng District, Beijing 100050, China

⁶ Department of Health Management and Service, Cangzhou Medical College, Higher Education District, Cangzhou 061000, China

⁷ Clinical Laboratory, Cangzhou Central Hospital, Xinhua District, Cangzhou 061000, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 513; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050513 - 11 May 2017

Cited by 41 | Viewed by 7831

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to assess the associations between fluid intake and urine biomarkers and to determine daily total fluid intake for assessing hydration status for male college students. A total of 68 male college students aged 18–25 years recruited from [...] Read more.

The objectives of this study were to assess the associations between fluid intake and urine biomarkers and to determine daily total fluid intake for assessing hydration status for male college students. A total of 68 male college students aged 18–25 years recruited from Cangzhou, China completed a 7-day cross-sectional study. From day 1 to day 7; all subjects were asked to complete a self-administered 7-day 24-h fluid intake record. The foods eaten by subjects were weighed and 24-h urine was collected for three consecutive days on the last three consecutive days. On the sixth day, urine osmolality, specific gravity (USG), pH, and concentrations of potassium, sodium, and chloride was determined. Subjects were divided into optimal hydration, middle hydration, and hypohydration groups according to their 24-h urine osmolality. Strong relationships were found between daily total fluid intake and 24-h urine biomarkers, especially for 24-h urine volume (r = 0.76; p < 0.0001) and osmolality (r = 0.76; p < 0.0001). The percentage of the variances in daily total fluid intake (R²) explained by PLS (partial least squares) model with seven urinary biomarkers was 68.9%; two urine biomarkers—24-h urine volume and osmolality—were identified as possible key predictors. The daily total fluid intake for assessing optimal hydration was 2582 mL, while the daily total fluid intake for assessing hypohydration was 2502 mL. Differences in fluid intake and urine biomarkers were found among male college students with different hydration status. A strong relationship existed between urine biomarkers and fluid intake. A PLS model identified that key variables for assessing daily total fluid intake were 24-h urine volume and osmolality. It was feasibility to use total fluid intake to judge hydration status. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

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7 pages, 274 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Two Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (rs2431697 and rs2910164) of miR-146a Are Associated with Risk of Coronary Artery Disease

by Yaqin Wang^1,2, Xintong Wang^1,2, Zhenyu Li³, Lulu Chen^1,2, Luping Zhou^1,2, Chaopeng Li^1,2 and Dong-sheng Ouyang^1,2,*

¹ Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China

² Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China

³ Department of Cardiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 514; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050514 - 10 May 2017

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 4590

Abstract

The coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the most severe cardiovascular diseases. MicroRNA-146a (miR-146a) influences the pathology of cardiovascular diseases. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of miR-146a (rs2431697 and rs2910164) have been reported to alter the function or expression of microRNA. The [...] Read more.

The coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the most severe cardiovascular diseases. MicroRNA-146a (miR-146a) influences the pathology of cardiovascular diseases. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of miR-146a (rs2431697 and rs2910164) have been reported to alter the function or expression of microRNA. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the association between miR-146a gene polymorphism and the risk of CAD in the Chinese population. A total of 353 CAD patients and 368 controls were recruited, and SNPs were analyzed by the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry and Sequenom MassARRAY system. The gene frequencies of rs2431697 and rs2910164 were significantly different between the two groups. The mutant type (T allele) of rs2431697 and wild type (C allele) of rs2910164 were more frequent in CAD patients. T allele carriers in rs2431697 had an increased CAD risk, while G allele of rs2910164 decreased the risk of CAD significantly. In conclusion, we found that the T allele of rs2431697 was a risk factor of CAD in the Chinese population. Meanwhile, we demonstrated that the G allele of rs2910164 decreased the susceptibility of CAD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

12 pages, 310 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Caregiver Supervision Practices and Risk of Childhood Unintentional Injury Mortality in Bangladesh

by Khaula Khatlani^1,2, Olakunle Alonge^1,*, Aminur Rahman³, Dewan Md. Emdadul Hoque⁴

, Al-Amin Bhuiyan³

, Priyanka Agrawal¹

and Fazlur Rahman³

¹ Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA

² Department of Preventive Medicine, Griffin Hospital, Derby, CT 06418, USA

³ Centre for Injury Prevention and Research, Bangladesh (CIPRB), Dhaka 1206, Bangladesh

⁴ International Centre for Diarrheal Diseases Research in Bangladesh (ICDDR,B), Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 515; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050515 - 11 May 2017

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6782

Abstract

Unintentional injury-related mortality rate, including drowning among children under five, is disproportionately higher in low- and middle-income countries. The evidence links lapse of supervision with childhood unintentional injury deaths. We determined the relationship between caregiver supervision and unintentional injury mortality among children under [...] Read more.

Unintentional injury-related mortality rate, including drowning among children under five, is disproportionately higher in low- and middle-income countries. The evidence links lapse of supervision with childhood unintentional injury deaths. We determined the relationship between caregiver supervision and unintentional injury mortality among children under five in rural Bangladesh. We conducted a nested, matched, case-control study within the cohort of a large-scale drowning prevention project in Bangladesh, “SOLID—Saving of Children’s Lives from Drowning”. From the baseline survey of the project, 126 cases (children under five with unintentional injury deaths) and 378 controls (alive children under five) were selected at case-control ratio of 1:3 and individually matched on neighborhood. The association between adult caregiver supervision and fatal injuries among children under five was determined in a multivariable conditional logistic regression analysis, and reported as adjusted matched odds ratio (MOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Children under five experiencing death due to unintentional injuries, including drowning, had 3.3 times increased odds of being unsupervised as compared with alive children (MOR = 3.3, 95% CI: 1.6–7.0), while adjusting for children’s sex, age, socioeconomic index, and adult caregivers’ age, education, occupation, and marital status. These findings are concerning and call for concerted, multi-sectoral efforts to design community-level prevention strategies. Public awareness and promotion of appropriate adult supervision strategies are needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection A Million Person Household Survey: Understanding the Burden of Injuries in Bangladesh)

13 pages, 317 KiB

Open AccessReview

Nasal Irrigation: An Imprecisely Defined Medical Procedure

by Nicola Principi¹ and Susanna Esposito^2,*

¹ Pediatric Highly Intensive Care Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milan, Italy

² Pediatric Clinic, Università degli Studi di Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 516; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050516 - 11 May 2017

Cited by 65 | Viewed by 19218

Abstract

Nasal irrigation (NI) is an old practice of upper respiratory tract care that likely originated in the Ayurvedic medical tradition. It is used alone or in association with other therapies in several conditions—including chronic rhinosinusitis and allergic rhinitis—and to treat and prevent upper [...] Read more.

Nasal irrigation (NI) is an old practice of upper respiratory tract care that likely originated in the Ayurvedic medical tradition. It is used alone or in association with other therapies in several conditions—including chronic rhinosinusitis and allergic rhinitis—and to treat and prevent upper respiratory tract infections, especially in children. However, despite it being largely prescribed in everyday clinical practice, NI is not included or is only briefly mentioned by experts in the guidelines for treatment of upper respiratory tract diseases. In this review, present knowledge about NI and its relevance in clinical practice is discussed to assist physicians in understanding the available evidence and the potential use of this medical intervention. Analysis of the literature showed that NI seems to be effective in the treatment of several acute and chronic sinonasal conditions. However, although in recent years several new studies have been performed, most of the studies that have evaluated NI have relevant methodologic problems. Only multicenter studies enrolling a great number of subjects can solve the problem of the real relevance of NI, and these studies are urgently needed. Methods for performing NI have to be standardized to determine which solutions, devices and durations of treatment are adequate to obtain favorable results. This seems particularly important for children that suffer a great number of sinonasal problems and might benefit significantly from an inexpensive and simple preventive and therapeutic measure such as NI. Full article

15 pages, 2436 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synthetic Receptors Induce Anti Angiogenic and Stress Signaling on Human First Trimester Cytotrophoblast Cells

by Ahmed F. Pantho¹, Mason Price², AHM Zuberi Ashraf³, Umaima Wajid³, Maryam Emami Khansari⁴, Afsana Jahan⁴, Syeda H. Afroze⁵, Md Mhahabubur Rhaman⁴, Corey R. Johnson⁴, Thomas J. Kuehl^3,6, Md. Alamgir Hossain^4,* and Mohammad Nasir Uddin^3,6,7,*

¹ Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA

² Department of Biology, Angelo State University, San Angelo, TX 76904, USA

³ Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Baylor Scott & White Health, Temple/Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine, Temple, TX 76508, USA

⁴ Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Jackson State University, Jackson, MS 39217, USA

⁵ Medical Physiology, Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine, Temple, TX 76504, USA

⁶ Department of Pediatrics, Baylor Scott & White Health, Temple/Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine, Temple, TX 76508, USA

⁷ Internal Medicine, Baylor Scott & White Health, Temple/Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine, Temple, TX 76508, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 517; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050517 - 11 May 2017

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 5123

Abstract

The cytotrophoblast (CTB) cells of the human placenta have membrane receptors that bind certain cardiotonic steroids (CTS) found in blood plasma. One of these, marinobufagenin, is a key factor in the etiology of preeclampsia. Herein, we used synthetic receptors (SR) to study their [...] Read more.

The cytotrophoblast (CTB) cells of the human placenta have membrane receptors that bind certain cardiotonic steroids (CTS) found in blood plasma. One of these, marinobufagenin, is a key factor in the etiology of preeclampsia. Herein, we used synthetic receptors (SR) to study their effectiveness on the angiogenic profile of human first trimester CTB cells. The humanextravillous CTB cells (Sw.71) used in this study were derived from first trimester chorionic villus tissue. Culture media of CTB cells treated with ≥1 nM SR level revealed sFlt-1 (Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1) was significantly increased while VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) was significantly decreased in the culture media (* p < 0.05 for each) The AT₂ receptor (Angiotensin II receptor type 2) expression was significantly upregulated in ≥1 nM SR-treated CTB cells as compared to basal; however, the AT₁ (Angiotensin II receptor, type 1) and VEGFR-1 (vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1) receptor expression was significantly downregulated (* p < 0.05 for each). Our results show that the anti-proliferative and anti-angiogenic effects of SR on CTB cells are similar to the effects of CTS. The observed anti angiogenic activity of SR on CTB cells demonstrates that the functionalized-urea/thiourea molecules may be useful as potent inhibitors to prevent CTS-induced impairment of CTB cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

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12 pages, 1038 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Barriers to Participation of Preschool Children with and without Physical Disabilities

by Lin-Ju Kang^1,2, Ming-Chieh Hsieh¹, Hua-Fang Liao³ and Ai-Wen Hwang^1,2,*

¹ Graduate Institute of Early Intervention, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, 259 Wen-Hwa 1st Road, Kwei-Shan, Tao-Yuan City 333, Taiwan

² Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, 5 Fu-Xing St., Kwei-Shan, Tao-Yuan City 333, Taiwan

³ School and Graduate Institute of Physical Therapy, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, 17 Xuzhou Road, Taipei City 100, Taiwan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 518; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050518 - 11 May 2017

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 8136

Abstract

Environment plays a vital role in affecting participation of young children in home, school, and community. Knowledge of environmental barriers helps to develop solutions or strategies that enable participation. The study compared the environmental barriers perceived by parents of preschool children with physical [...] Read more.

Environment plays a vital role in affecting participation of young children in home, school, and community. Knowledge of environmental barriers helps to develop solutions or strategies that enable participation. The study compared the environmental barriers perceived by parents of preschool children with physical disabilities (PD, n = 142) and with typical development (TD, n = 192) in Taiwan. Parents identified environmental barriers by structured interview using the Chinese version of the Child and Adolescent Scale of Environment (CASE-C). The CASE-C is an 18-item measure of the impact of problems with physical, social, and attitudinal environmental features. Differences between the PD and TD groups in the summary scores for the CASE-C and the percentages of parents who perceived a problem for each item were examined by the analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and Chi-square test. Parents of children with PD more often identified barriers related to family resources and community programs or services, social attitudes, assistance and supports outside of home, physical design of home and community, transportation, and assistive devices or equipment. Greater impacts of barriers were also reported by parents of preschool children with PD. Our findings provide evidence of environmental barriers that inform practice and policies to modify the barriers and provide an accessible and inclusive environment for families with young children. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Influences on Maternal and Child Health)

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27 pages, 533 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Mercury in Children: Current State on Exposure through Human Biomonitoring Studies

by Flavia Ruggieri, Costanza Majorani, Francesco Domanico and Alessandro Alimonti^*

Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 519; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050519 - 12 May 2017

Cited by 57 | Viewed by 7698

Abstract

Mercury (Hg) in children has multiple exposure sources and the toxicity of Hg compounds depends on exposure routes, dose, timing of exposure, and developmental stage (be it prenatal or postnatal). Over the last decades, Hg was widely recognized as a threat to the [...] Read more.

Mercury (Hg) in children has multiple exposure sources and the toxicity of Hg compounds depends on exposure routes, dose, timing of exposure, and developmental stage (be it prenatal or postnatal). Over the last decades, Hg was widely recognized as a threat to the children’s health and there have been acknowledgements at the international level of the need of a global policy intervention—like the Minamata treaty—aimed at reducing or preventing Hg exposure and protecting the child health. National human biomonitoring (HBM) data has demonstrated that low levels of exposure of Hg are still an important health concern for children, which no one country can solve alone. Although independent HBM surveys have provided the basis for the achievements of exposure mitigation in specific contexts, a new paradigm for a coordinated global monitoring of children’s exposure, aimed at a reliable decision-making tool at global level is yet a great challenge for the next future. The objective of the present review is to describe current HBM studies on Hg exposure in children, taking into account the potential pathways of Hg exposure and the actual Hg exposure levels assessed by different biomarkers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mercury and Health: Current Perspectives and Future Directions)

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8 pages, 4640 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Health Risk of Cd Released from Low-Cost Jewelry

by Miloslav Pouzar^1,2, Magdalena Zvolská^1,*, Oldřich Jarolím³ and Lenka Audrlická Vavrušová¹

¹ Institute of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Technology, University of Pardubice, Studentska 573, 532 10 Pardubice, Czech Republic

² Center of Materials and Nanotechnologies (CEMNAT), Faculty of Chemical Technology, University of Pardubice, Nam. Cs. Legii 565, 530 02 Pardubice, Czech Republic

³ Department of Waste Management, Czech Environmental Inspectorate, Na Břehu 267, 190 00 Praha 9, Czech Republic

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 520; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050520 - 12 May 2017

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4686

Abstract

The composition of the surface layer of 13 low-cost jewelry samples with a high Cd content was analyzed using an energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (ED XRF). The analyzed jewels were obtained in cooperation with the Czech Environmental Inspectorate. The jewels were leached in [...] Read more.

The composition of the surface layer of 13 low-cost jewelry samples with a high Cd content was analyzed using an energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (ED XRF). The analyzed jewels were obtained in cooperation with the Czech Environmental Inspectorate. The jewels were leached in two types of artificial sweat (acidic and alkaline) for 7 days. Twenty microliters of the resulting solution was subsequently placed on a paper carrier and analyzed by an LIBS (Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectrometry) spectrometer after drying. The Cd content in the jewelry surface layer detected by using ED XRF ranged from 13.4% to 44.6% (weight per weight—w/w). The samples were subsequently leached in artificial alkaline, and the acidic sweat and leachates were analyzed using laser-induced breakdown spectrometry (LIBS). The amount of released Cd into alkaline sweat ranged from 24.0 to 370 µg Cd per week, respectively 3.23–61.7 µg/cm²/week. The amount of released Cd into acidic sweat ranged from 16.4 to 1517 µg Cd per week, respectively 3.53–253 µg/cm²/week. The limit of Cd for dermal exposure is not unequivocally determined in the countries of the EU (European Union) or in the U.S. Based on the US EPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency) approach used to establish the reference dose (RfD) for Cd contained in food and information about the bioavailability of Cd after dermal exposure, we assessed our own value of dermal RfD. The value was compared with the theoretical amount of Cd, which can be absorbed into the organism from jewelry in contact with the skin. The calculation was based on the amount of Cd that was released into acidic and alkaline sweat. The highest amount of Cd was released into acidic sweat, which represents 0.1% of dermal RfD and into alkaline sweat, 0.5% of dermal RfD. These results indicate that the analyzed jewelry contains Cd over the limit for composition of jewelry available within the territory of the EU. The determined amount of Cd in analyzed jewelry does not, however, pose a threat in terms of non-carcinogenic toxic effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)

10 pages, 312 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nutritional Potential of Selected Insect Species Reared on the Island of Sumatra

by Anna Adámková¹, Jiří Mlček^2,*, Lenka Kouřimská³, Marie Borkovcová⁴, Tomáš Bušina⁵, Martin Adámek⁶, Martina Bednářová⁷ and Jan Krajsa⁸

¹ Department of Quality of Agricultural Products, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, 165 21 Prague, Czech Republic

² Department of Food Analysis and Chemistry, Tomas Bata University in Zlin, 760 01 Zlin, Czech Republic

³ Department of Microbiology, Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, 165 21 Prague, Czech Republic

⁴ Department of Zoology, Fisheries, Hydrobiology and Apiculture, Mendel University, 613 00 Brno, Czech Republic

⁵ Department of Husbandry and Ethology of Animals, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, 165 21 Prague, Czech Republic

⁶ Department of Microelectronics, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Communication, Brno University of Technology, 616 00 Brno, Czech Republic

⁷ Department of Information Technology, Mendel University, 613 00 Brno, Czech Republic

⁸ Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, 601 77 Brno, Czech Republic

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 521; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050521 - 12 May 2017

Cited by 90 | Viewed by 8541

Abstract

Inhabitants of the Indonesian island of Sumatra are faced with the problem of insufficient food supplies and the consequent risk of undernourishment and health issues. Edible insects as a traditional and readily available food source could be part of the solution. The nutritional [...] Read more.

Inhabitants of the Indonesian island of Sumatra are faced with the problem of insufficient food supplies and the consequent risk of undernourishment and health issues. Edible insects as a traditional and readily available food source could be part of the solution. The nutritional value of insects depends on many factors, e.g., species, developmental stage, sex, diet, and climatic conditions. However, edible insects bred in Sumatra for human consumption have never before been assessed with regard to their nutritional value. Our study involved analyses of crude protein, chitin, fat and selected fatty acid contents of giant mealworm larvae (Zophobas morio), larvae of the common mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) and nymphs of the field cricket (Gryllus assimilis). Crude protein content in the samples ranged from 46% to 56%. Highest (35%) and lowest (31%) amounts of fat were recorded in giant mealworm larvae and larvae of the common mealworm, respectively. Chitin amounts ranged from 6% to 13%. Based on these values, which are comparable to those known from other food insects reared in different regions of the world, the edible species bred in Sumatra could become food sources with a potential to help stave off hunger and undernourishment. Full article

22 pages, 1107 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Replication of High Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Prevalence Rates, Child Characteristics, and Maternal Risk Factors in a Second Sample of Rural Communities in South Africa

by Philip A. May^1,2,3,*, Marlene M. De Vries², Anna-Susan Marais²

, Wendy O. Kalberg³, David Buckley³, Colleen M. Adnams⁴, Julie M. Hasken¹, Barbara Tabachnick⁵, Luther K. Robinson⁶, Melanie A. Manning⁷, Heidre Bezuidenhout², Margaret P. Adam⁸

, Kenneth L. Jones⁹, Soraya Seedat², Charles D.H. Parry^2,10

and H. Eugene Hoyme^11,12,13

¹ Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 28081, USA

² Department of Psychiatry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7599, South Africa

³ Center on Alcoholism, Substance Abuse and Addictions, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA

⁴ Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7700, South Africa

⁵ Emerita of Psychology, California State University, Northridge, Los Angeles, CA 91330, USA

⁶ Department of Pediatrics, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14222, USA

⁷ Departments of Pathology and Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA

⁸ Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA

⁹ Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA

¹⁰ Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town 7501, South Africa

¹¹ Department of Pediatrics, University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, Sioux Falls, SD 57105, USA

¹² Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA

¹³ Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA

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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 522; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050522 - 12 May 2017

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 11262

Abstract

Background: Prevalence and characteristics of fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) and total fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) were studied in a second sample of three South African rural communities to assess change. Methods: Active case ascertainment focused on children with height, weight [...] Read more.

Background: Prevalence and characteristics of fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) and total fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) were studied in a second sample of three South African rural communities to assess change. Methods: Active case ascertainment focused on children with height, weight and/or head circumference ≤25th centile and randomly-selected children. Final diagnoses were based on dysmorphology, neurobehavioral scores, and maternal risk interviews. Results: Cardinal facial features, head circumference, and total dysmorphology scores differentiated specific FASD diagnostic categories in a somewhat linear fashion but all FASD traits were significantly worse than those of randomly-selected controls. Neurodevelopmental delays were significantly worse for children with FASD than controls. Binge alcohol use was clearly documented as the proximal maternal risk factor for FASD, and significant distal risk factors were: low body mass, education, and income; high gravidity, parity, and age at birth of the index child. FAS rates continue to extremely high in these communities at 89–129 per 1000 children. Total FASD affect 196–276 per 1000 or 20–28% of the children in these communities. Conclusions: Very high rates of FASD persist in these general populations where regular, heavy drinking, often in a binge fashion, co-occurs with low socioeconomic conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

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3 pages, 221 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Geographical Variation in Breast Cancer Outcomes

by Peter Baade

Cancer Research Centre, Cancer Council Queensland, P.O. Box 201, Spring Hill, QLD 4004, Australia

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 523; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050523 - 12 May 2017

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 7588

Abstract

Among females worldwide, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer, accounting for 25% of all new diagnoses in 2012, and is the leading cause of cancer mortality (15% of total cancer deaths), particularly among less developed nations [1].[...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geographical Variation in Breast Cancer Outcomes)

10 pages, 1922 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Income-Related Inequalities in Access to Dental Care Services in Japan

by Akemi Nishide¹, Misuzu Fujita^1,*, Yasunori Sato², Kengo Nagashima²

, Sho Takahashi³ and Akira Hata¹

¹ Department of Public Health, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba 260-8670, Japan

² Department of Global Clinical Research, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba 260-0870, Japan

³ Clinical Research Center, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba 260-0870, Japan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 524; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050524 - 12 May 2017

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 6493

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to evaluate whether income-related inequalities in access to dental care services exist in Japan. Methods: The subjects included beneficiaries of the National Health Insurance (NHI) in Chiba City, Japan, who had been enrolled from 1 April 2014 [...] Read more.

Background: This study aimed to evaluate whether income-related inequalities in access to dental care services exist in Japan. Methods: The subjects included beneficiaries of the National Health Insurance (NHI) in Chiba City, Japan, who had been enrolled from 1 April 2014 to 31 March 2015. The presence or absence of dental visits and number of days spent on dental care services during the year were calculated using insurance claims submitted. Equivalent household income was calculated using individual income data from 1 January to 31 December 2013, declared for taxation. Results: Of the 216,211 enrolled subjects, 50.3% had dental care during the year. Among those with dental visits, the average number of days (standard deviation) spent on dental care services per year was 7.7 (7.1). Low income was associated with a decreased rate of dental care utilization regardless of age and sex. However, there was a significant inverse linear association between the number of days spent on dental care services and income levels for both sexes. Conclusions: There were income-related inequalities in access to dental care services, regardless of the age group or sex, within the Japanese universal health insurance system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology and Determinants of Dental Caries in Children)

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11 pages, 1053 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Risk of Hg Exposure Associated with Rice Consumption in a Typical City (Suzhou) in Eastern China

by Gang Wang¹, Yu Gong¹, Yi-Xin Zhu², Ai-Jun Miao¹, Liu-Yan Yang^1,* and Huan Zhong^1,*

¹ State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China

² CQC Intime Testing Technology Co. Ltd., Suzhou 210023, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 525; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050525 - 12 May 2017

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5401

Abstract

Recent studies have revealed that not only fish but also rice consumption may significantly contribute to human exposure to mercury (Hg) in Asian countries. It is therefore essential to assess dietary exposure to Hg in rice and its associated health risk. However, risk [...] Read more.

Recent studies have revealed that not only fish but also rice consumption may significantly contribute to human exposure to mercury (Hg) in Asian countries. It is therefore essential to assess dietary exposure to Hg in rice and its associated health risk. However, risk assessments of Hg in rice in non-contaminated areas are generally lacking in Asian countries. In the present study, Hg concentrations were measured in rice samples collected from markets and supermarkets in Suzhou, a typical city in Eastern China. In addition, the rice ingestion rates (IR) were assessed via a questionnaire-based survey of Suzhou residents. The data were then used to assess the risk of Hg exposure associated with rice consumption, by calculating the hazard quotient (HQ). Hg contents in rice samples were well below the national standard (20 μg/kg), ranging from 1.46 to 8.48 ng/g. They were also significantly (p > 0.05) independent of the area of production and place of purchase (markets vs. supermarkets in the different districts). Our results indicate a low risk of Hg exposure from rice in Suzhou (HQ: 0.005–0.05), despite the generally high personal IR (0.05–0.4 kg/day). The risk of Hg associated with rice consumption for Suzhou residents was not significantly affected by the age or sex of the consumer (p > 0.05). Overall, our results provide a study of human exposure to Hg in rice in Chinese cities not known to be contaminated with Hg. Future studies should examine Hg exposure in different areas in China and in potentially vulnerable major food types. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Pollution and Human Health Risk)

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19 pages, 679 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Risk Assessment of Florists Exposed to Pesticide Residues through Handling of Flowers and Preparing Bouquets

by Khaoula Toumi^1,*, Laure Joly², Christiane Vleminckx² and Bruno Schiffers¹

¹ Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech/ULg—Pesticide Science Laboratory, Passage des Déportés 2, 5030 Gembloux, Belgium

² Operational Direction Food, Medecines and Consumer Safety, Institut Scientifique de Santé Publique, Rue Juliette Wytsman 14, 1050 Brussels, Belgium

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 526; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050526 - 13 May 2017

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 17572

Abstract

Flowers are frequently treated with pesticides and, as a result, florists handling daily a large number of flowers can be exposed to pesticide residues. A study was conducted among twenty volunteer florists located in Namur Province and in the Brussels Capital Region of [...] Read more.

Flowers are frequently treated with pesticides and, as a result, florists handling daily a large number of flowers can be exposed to pesticide residues. A study was conducted among twenty volunteer florists located in Namur Province and in the Brussels Capital Region of Belgium in order to assess their potential dermal exposure to dislodgeable pesticide residues transferred from flowers to hands. Two pairs of cotton gloves were worn during two consecutive half days while handling flowers and preparing bouquets (from min 2 h to max 3 h/day). The residual pesticide deposits on the glove samples were extracted with a multi-residue Quick Easy Cheap Effective Rugged Safe (QuEChERS) method and analyzed by a combination of gas and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS) by an accredited laboratory. A total of 111 active substances (mainly insecticides and fungicides) were detected, with an average of 37 active substances per sample and a total concentration per glove sample of 22.22 mg/kg. Several predictive levels of contamination were considered to assess the risk. The potential dermal exposures (PDE) of florists were estimated at the average, for different percentiles, and at the maximum concentration of residues in samples. At the PDE P90 and at the PDE_MAX (or worst case) values, three and five active substances respectively exceed the Acceptable Operator Exposure Level (AOEL), indicating risk situations. For the systemic exposure (SE), one active substance (clofentezine) exceeds the AOEL at the P90 predictive level. In the worst case, SE_MAX (at the maximum concentrations), four active substances (clofentezine, famoxadone, methiocarb, and pyridaben) exceed their respective AOEL values. Among the 14 most frequently detected active substances, two have SE_MAX values exceeding the AOEL. Exposure could be particularly critical for clofentezine with an SE_MAX value four times higher than the AOEL (393%). The exposure of florists appeared to be an example of a unique professional situation in which workers are exposed regularly to both a very high number of toxic chemicals and rather high concentration levels. Therefore the priority should be to raise the level of awareness among the florists who must change their habits and practices if they want to minimize their exposure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecological and Human-Health Effects of Pesticides in the Environment)

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9 pages, 1420 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A New Method for the Fast Analysis of Trihalomethanes in Tap and Recycled Waters Using Headspace Gas Chromatography with Micro-Electron Capture Detection

by Lydon D. Alexandrou¹, Barry J. Meehan², Paul D. Morrison¹ and Oliver A. H. Jones^1,*

¹ Australian Centre for Research on Separation Science (ACROSS), School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, VIC 3001, Australia

² School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, VIC 3001, Australia

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 527; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050527 - 15 May 2017

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 7024

Abstract

Chemical disinfection of water supplies brings significant public health benefits by reducing microbial contamination. The process can however, result in the formation of toxic compounds through interactions between disinfectants and organic material in the source water. These new compounds are termed disinfection by-products [...] Read more.

Chemical disinfection of water supplies brings significant public health benefits by reducing microbial contamination. The process can however, result in the formation of toxic compounds through interactions between disinfectants and organic material in the source water. These new compounds are termed disinfection by-products (DBPs). The most common are the trihalomethanes (THMs) such as trichloromethane (chloroform), dichlorobromomethane, chlorodibromomethane and tribromomethane (bromoform); these are commonly reported as a single value for total trihalomethanes (TTHMs). Analysis of DBPs is commonly performed via time- and solvent-intensive sample preparation techniques such as liquid–liquid and solid phase extraction. In this study, a method using headspace gas chromatography with micro-electron capture detection was developed and applied for the analysis of THMs in drinking and recycled waters from across Melbourne (Victoria, Australia). The method allowed almost complete removal of the sample preparation step whilst maintaining trace level detection limits (>1 ppb). All drinking water samples had TTHM concentrations below the Australian regulatory limit of 250 µg/L but some were above the U.S. EPA limit of 60 µg/L. The highest TTHM concentration was 67.2 µg/L and lowest 22.9 µg/L. For recycled water, samples taken directly from treatment plants held significantly higher concentrations (153.2 µg/L TTHM) compared to samples from final use locations (4.9–9.3 µg/L). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Aquatic Microbial and Chemical Contaminants of Concern and Their Impact on Human Health)

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16 pages, 632 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Family Planning and the Samburu: A Qualitative Study Exploring the Thoughts of Men on a Population Health and Environment Programme in Rural Kenya

by Loren Kock^* and Audrey Prost

Institute for Global Health, University College London, London WC1N 1EH, UK

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 528; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050528 - 13 May 2017

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 8478

Abstract

Population Health and Environment (PHE) strategies are argued to improve ecosystem and human health by addressing family size and its effects on natural resource use, food security, and reproductive health. This study investigates men’s views on a PHE family planning (FP) programme delivered [...] Read more.

Population Health and Environment (PHE) strategies are argued to improve ecosystem and human health by addressing family size and its effects on natural resource use, food security, and reproductive health. This study investigates men’s views on a PHE family planning (FP) programme delivered among the pastoral Samburu tribe in rural northern Kenya. Three focus group discussions and nine semi-structured interviews were conducted with 27 Samburu men. These discussions revealed support for environmentally-sensitised family planning promotion. Men highlighted their dependency on natural resources and challenges faced in providing for large families and maintaining livestock during drought. These practices were said to lead to natural resource exhaustion, environmental degradation, and wildlife dispersal, undermining key economic benefits of environmental and wildlife conservation. Relating family size to the environment is a compelling strategy to improve support for FP among Samburu men. Kenyan policy-makers should consider integrating community-based PHE strategies among underserved pastoral groups living in fragile ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Impact Assessment (HIA))

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18 pages, 311 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perceived Health Benefits and Willingness to Pay for Parks by Park Users: Quantitative and Qualitative Research

by Claire Henderson-Wilson^1,*, Kah-Ling Sia², Jenny Veitch³, Petra K Staiger⁴

, Penny Davidson⁵ and Peter Nicholls⁶

¹ Deakin University, Geelong Australia, Health Nature and Sustainability Research Group, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia

² Deakin University, Geelong Australia, Deakin Health Economics, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia

³ Deakin University, Geelong Australia, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia

⁴ Deakin University, Geelong Australia, School of Psychology, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia

⁵ Parks and Leisure Australia, PLA National Office, 207 The Parade, Norwood, SA 5067, Australia

⁶ Parks and Leisure Australia, P.O. Box 536, Walkerville, SA 5081, Australia

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 529; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050529 - 15 May 2017

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 7654

Abstract

Whilst a growing body of evidence demonstrates people derive a range of health and wellbeing benefits from visiting parks, only a limited number of attempts have been made to provide a complementary economic assessment of parks. The aim of this exploratory study was [...] Read more.

Whilst a growing body of evidence demonstrates people derive a range of health and wellbeing benefits from visiting parks, only a limited number of attempts have been made to provide a complementary economic assessment of parks. The aim of this exploratory study was to directly estimate the perceived health and wellbeing benefits attained from parks and the economic value assigned to parks by park users in Victoria, Australia. The research employed a mixed methods approach (survey and interviews) to collect primary data from a selection of 140 park users: 100 from two metropolitan parks in Melbourne and 40 from a park on the urban fringe of Melbourne, Victoria. Our findings suggest that park users derive a range of perceived physical, mental/spiritual, and social health benefits, but park use was predominantly associated with physical health benefits. Overall, our exploratory study findings suggest that park users are willing to pay for parks, as they highly value them as places for exercising, socialising, and relaxing. Importantly, most people would miss parks if they did not exist. The findings aim to provide park managers, public health advocates, and urban policy makers with evidence about the perceived health and wellbeing benefits of park usage and the economic value park visitors place on parks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)

14 pages, 337 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Mental Health Problems and Related Factors in Ecuadorian College Students

by Claudia Torres^1,*, Patricia Otero², Byron Bustamante¹

, Vanessa Blanco³, Olga Díaz⁴ and Fernando L. Vázquez⁴

¹ Deparment of Psychology, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja 11-01-608, Ecuador

² Deparment of Psychology, University of A Coruña, 15071 A Coruña, Spain

³ Deparment of Evolutive and Educational Psychology, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain

⁴ Deparment of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 530; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050530 - 15 May 2017

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 11007

Abstract

Although the mental health problems of college students have been the subject of increasing research, there are no studies about its prevalence in Ecuadorian college students. The aim of this study was to determine the mental health problems and their associated factors in [...] Read more.

Although the mental health problems of college students have been the subject of increasing research, there are no studies about its prevalence in Ecuadorian college students. The aim of this study was to determine the mental health problems and their associated factors in Ecuadorian freshmen university students. A sample of 1092 students (53.7% women; mean age = 18.3 years) were recruited from the Technical Particular University of Loja (Ecuador). Socio-demographic, academic, and clinical characteristics were gathered, as well as information on the participants’ mental health through a number of mental health screens. Prevalence of positive screens was 6.2% for prevalence of major depressive episodes, 0.02% for generalized anxiety disorders, 2.2% for panic disorders, 32.0% for eating disorders, 13.1% for suicidal risk. Mental health problems were significantly associated with sex, area of study, self-esteem, social support, personality and histories of mental health problems. The findings offer a starting point for identifying useful factors to target prevention and intervention strategies aimed at university students. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)

8 pages, 727 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Self-Management Group Exercise Extends Healthy Life Expectancy in Frail Community-Dwelling Older Adults

by Minoru Yamada^1,* and Hidenori Arai²

¹ Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 3-29-1 Otsuka, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 112-0012, Japan

² National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, 7-430, Morioka-cho, Obu, Aichi 474-8511, Japan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 531; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050531 - 15 May 2017

Cited by 49 | Viewed by 7344

Abstract

Preventing frailty and its adverse health outcomes is crucial in countries with a large elderly population, such as Japan. Since the long-term care insurance (LTCI) system was launched, the number of certified older adults with LTCI service requirement has continued to increase. This [...] Read more.

Preventing frailty and its adverse health outcomes is crucial in countries with a large elderly population, such as Japan. Since the long-term care insurance (LTCI) system was launched, the number of certified older adults with LTCI service requirement has continued to increase. This is a serious problem, because the LTCI service requirement certification is equivalent to disability. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a self-management group intervention on new LTCI service requirement certifications in community-dwelling older adults in Japan. We analyzed the cohort data from a prospective study. In this study, we recruited community-dwelling adults aged 65 years and older who were independent in a city in Kyoto prefecture in 2012. The subjects in the participation group (n = 1620) attended 60-min group training sessions once or twice every two weeks from December 2012 to December 2016. The exercise sessions consisted of mild-intensity aerobic exercise, mild strength training, flexibility and balance exercises, and cool-down activities. These exercise classes were facilitated by well-trained volunteer staff. The outcome measure was the number of new LTCI requirement certifications during a four-year follow-up period. During the four-year follow-up period, 247 subjects (15.2%) in the participation group and 334 (20.6%) in the control group were newly certified for LTCI service requirements. The hazard ratio for new LTCI service requirements in the participation group compared with the control group was 0.73 (95% CI = 0.62–0.86) in the four-year follow-up period. These results indicate the usefulness of self-management group exercise to reduce the incidence of disability in older adults. Thus, increasing self-management group activities in each community should be encouraged. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ageing Well: The Role of Age-Friendly Environments)

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9 pages, 902 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Nano-Hydroxyapatite on the Metal Bioavailability, Plant Metal Accumulation and Root Exudates of Ryegrass for Phytoremediation in Lead-Polluted Soil

by Ling Ding¹, Jianbing Li², Wei Liu¹, Qingqing Zuo¹ and Shu-xuan Liang^1,*

¹ College of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Hebei University, Key Laboratory of Analytical Science and Technology of Hebei Province, Baoding 071002, China

² Environmental Engineering Program, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC V2N4Z9, Canada

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 532; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050532 - 16 May 2017

Cited by 57 | Viewed by 6858

Abstract

Lead is recognized as one of the most widespread toxic metal contaminants and pervasive environmental health concerns in the environment. In this paper, the effects of nano-hydroxyapatite (NHAP) on remediation in artificially Pb-contaminated soils and ryegrass were studied in a pot experiment. The [...] Read more.

Lead is recognized as one of the most widespread toxic metal contaminants and pervasive environmental health concerns in the environment. In this paper, the effects of nano-hydroxyapatite (NHAP) on remediation in artificially Pb-contaminated soils and ryegrass were studied in a pot experiment. The addition of NHAP decreased the water- and acid-soluble, exchangeable, and reducible fractions of Pb, extracted using the Community Bureau of Reference (BCR) method, whilst greatly increasing the residual fraction of Pb. Oxidizable Pb was increased slightly. No significant increase in soil pH was caused by the application of NHAP. Compared to conditions without NHAP, the addition of NHAP decreased the Pb content in ryegrass shoots and roots by 13.19–20.3% and 2.86–21.1%, respectively. Therefore, the application of NHAP reduced the mobility and bioavailability of Pb in the soil. In addition, the application of NHAP improved the fresh weight of shoots and roots, and promoted the growth of ryegrass. NHAP played a positive role in stimulating ryegrass to secrete tartaric acid. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heavy Metals: Environmental and Human Health)

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15 pages, 3345 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Promoting Healthy Lifestyle and Well-Being in Adolescents through Outdoor Physical Activity

by Karel Fromel^1,2, Michal Kudlacek^1,*

, Dorota Groffik²

, Zbynek Svozil¹, Adam Simunek¹ and Wieslaw Garbaciak²

¹ Faculty of Physical Culture, Palacký University Olomouc, 771 11 Olomouc, Czech Republic

² The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, 40-065 Katowice, Poland

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 533; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050533 - 17 May 2017

Cited by 53 | Viewed by 11081

Abstract

Health-enhancing physical activities (PA) performed outdoors could markedly contribute to the adoption of a healthy lifestyle in adolescence. The differences between PA preferences and actual opportunities for these PA are an issue that has received frequent attention. To date, the extent to which [...] Read more.

Health-enhancing physical activities (PA) performed outdoors could markedly contribute to the adoption of a healthy lifestyle in adolescence. The differences between PA preferences and actual opportunities for these PA are an issue that has received frequent attention. To date, the extent to which these differences are reflected in adolescents meeting PA recommendations and their well-being has not been explored. In total, 10,086 respondents took part in an on-line research project regarding PA preferences. Of them, 2446 also completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (Long Form) and the World Health Organization (WHO) W-5 questionnaire to assess well-being. Finally, 1278 of these respondents were involved in objective PA monitoring using pedometers. The study aimed to explore the prevalence and trends regarding outdoor PA. Moreover, we assessed whether the agreement between preferred PA and PA actually undertaken was associated with higher odds for meeting PA recommendations and achieving a higher level of well-being. Of a selection of outdoor activities, Czech and Polish boys preferred cycling, swimming, and downhill skiing, while girls preferred swimming activities, skating, and cycling. The agreement between preferred and PA actually undertaken was associated with higher odds for meeting the weekly PA recommendations and higher levels of well-being both in boys and girls. Evaluation of outdoor PA preferences and taking these preferred activities into account when forming conditions for them was important in the efficient promotion of the physical and mental health of adolescents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social and Environmental Influences on Physical Activity Behaviours)

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16 pages, 340 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Predictors of Segmented School Day Physical Activity and Sedentary Time in Children from a Northwest England Low-Income Community

by Sarah L. Taylor^1,*, Whitney B. Curry¹, Zoe R. Knowles², Robert J. Noonan¹

, Bronagh McGrane³ and Stuart J. Fairclough^1,4

¹ Physical Activity and Health Research Group, Department of Sport and Physical Activity, Edge Hill University, St. Helens Road, Ormskirk, Lancs L39 4QP, UK

² Physical Activity Exchange, Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 2AT, UK

³ School of Arts Education & Movement, Dublin City University Institute of Education, St. Patrick’s Campus, Dublin, Ireland

⁴ Department of Physical Education and Sports Science, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 534; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050534 - 16 May 2017

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 7111

Abstract

Background: Schools have been identified as important settings for health promotion through physical activity participation, particularly as children are insufficiently active for health. The aim of this study was to investigate the child and school-level influences on children′s physical activity levels and sedentary [...] Read more.

Background: Schools have been identified as important settings for health promotion through physical activity participation, particularly as children are insufficiently active for health. The aim of this study was to investigate the child and school-level influences on children′s physical activity levels and sedentary time during school hours in a sample of children from a low-income community; Methods: One hundred and eighty-six children (110 boys) aged 9–10 years wore accelerometers for 7 days, with 169 meeting the inclusion criteria of 16 h∙day⁻¹ for a minimum of three week days. Multilevel prediction models were constructed to identify significant predictors of sedentary time, light, and moderate to vigorous physical activity during school hour segments. Child-level predictors (sex, weight status, maturity offset, cardiorespiratory fitness, physical activity self-efficacy, physical activity enjoyment) and school-level predictors (number on roll, playground area, provision score) were entered into the models; Results: Maturity offset, fitness, weight status, waist circumference-to-height ratio, sedentary time, moderate to vigorous physical activity, number of children on roll and playground area significantly predicted physical activity and sedentary time; Conclusions: Research should move towards considering context-specific physical activity and its correlates to better inform intervention strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Paediatric Exercise Science and Health)

10 pages, 553 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quality over Quantity: Contribution of Urban Green Space to Neighborhood Satisfaction

by Yang Zhang^1,*, Agnes E. Van den Berg², Terry Van Dijk¹ and Gerd Weitkamp²

¹ Department of Spatial Planning & Environment, Faculty of Spatial Sciences, University of Groningen, P.O. Box 800, 9700 AV Groningen, The Netherlands

² Department of Cultural Geography, Faculty of Spatial Sciences, University of Groningen, P.O. Box 800, 9700 AV Groningen, The Netherlands

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 535; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050535 - 16 May 2017

Cited by 210 | Viewed by 14775

Abstract

There is increasing evidence that the quality of green space significantly contributes to neighborhood satisfaction and well-being, independent of the mere amount of green space. In this paper, we examined residents’ perceptions of the quality and beneficial affordances of green space in relation [...] Read more.

There is increasing evidence that the quality of green space significantly contributes to neighborhood satisfaction and well-being, independent of the mere amount of green space. In this paper, we examined residents’ perceptions of the quality and beneficial affordances of green space in relation to objectively assessed accessibility and usability. We used data from a survey in two neighborhoods (N = 223) of a medium-sized city in the Netherlands, which were similar in the amount of green space and other physical and socio-demographic characteristics, but differed in the availability of accessible and usable green spaces. Results show that residents of the neighborhood with a higher availability of accessible and usable green spaces were more satisfied with their neighborhood. This difference was statistically mediated by the higher level of perceived green space quality. Neighborhood satisfaction was significantly positively related to well-being. However, residents of the two neighborhoods did not differ in self-reported well-being and beneficial affordances of green space. These analyses contribute to a further understanding of how the accessibility and usability of green spaces may increase people’s neighborhood satisfaction. It highlights the importance of perceived quality in addition to the amount of green space when examining the beneficial effects of green space. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landscapes and Human Health)

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9 pages, 1841 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Chronic Exposure to Uranium from Gestation: Effects on Behavior and Neurogenesis in Adulthood

by Céline Dinocourt, Cécile Culeux, Marie Legrand, Christelle Elie and Philippe Lestaevel^*

Laboratoire de RadioToxicologie Expérimentale, Service de Radiobiologie et d’Epidémiologie, Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire, B.P.17, 92262 Fontenay aux Roses CEDEX, France

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050536 - 17 May 2017

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5196

Abstract

Uranium exposure leads to cerebral dysfunction involving for instance biochemical, neurochemical and neurobehavioral effects. Most studies have focused on mechanisms in uranium-exposed adult animals. However, recent data on developing animals have shown that the developing brain is also sensitive to uranium. Models of [...] Read more.

Uranium exposure leads to cerebral dysfunction involving for instance biochemical, neurochemical and neurobehavioral effects. Most studies have focused on mechanisms in uranium-exposed adult animals. However, recent data on developing animals have shown that the developing brain is also sensitive to uranium. Models of uranium exposure during brain development highlight the need to improve our understanding of the effects of uranium. In a model in which uranium exposure began from the first day of gestation, we studied the neurobehavioral consequences as well as the progression of hippocampal neurogenesis in animals from dams exposed to uranium. Our results show that 2-month-old rats exposed to uranium from gestational day 1 displayed deficits in special memory and a prominent depressive-like phenotype. Cell proliferation was not disturbed in these animals, as shown by 5-bromo-2′deoxyuridine (BrdU)/neuronal specific nuclear protein (NeuN) immunostaining in the dentate gyrus. However, in some animals, the pyramidal cell layer was dispersed in the CA3 region. From our previous results with the same model, the hypothesis of alterations of neurogenesis at prior stages of development is worth considering, but is probably not the only one. Therefore, further investigations are needed to correlate cerebral dysfunction and its underlying mechanistic pathways. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Neurotoxicology)

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15 pages, 870 KiB

Open AccessReview

Cu Isotopic Composition in Surface Environments and in Biological Systems: A Critical Review

by Zhuhong Wang¹, Jiubin Chen^1,* and Ting Zhang²

¹ State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550081, China

² Institute of Surface-Earth System Science Research, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 538; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050538 - 18 May 2017

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 6486

Abstract

Copper (Cu) is a transition metal and an essential micronutrient for organisms, but also one of the most widespread toxic inorganic contaminants at very high content. The research on Cu isotopes has grown rapidly in the last decade. Hitherto, a large number of [...] Read more.

Copper (Cu) is a transition metal and an essential micronutrient for organisms, but also one of the most widespread toxic inorganic contaminants at very high content. The research on Cu isotopes has grown rapidly in the last decade. Hitherto, a large number of studies have been published on the theoretical fractionation mechanisms, experimental data and natural variations of Cu isotopes in variable environments and ecosystems. These studies reported a large variation of δ⁶⁵Cu (−16.49 to +20.04‰) in terrestrial samples and showed that Cu isotopes could be fractionated by various biogeochemical processes to different extent. Several papers have previously reviewed the coupling of Cu and Zn isotope systematics, and we give here a tentative review of the recent publications only on Cu isotopesin variable surface repositories, animals and human beings, with a goal to attract much attention to research on Cu (and other metals) behaviors in the environment and biological systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)

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10 pages, 610 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inorganic Macro- and Micronutrients in “Superberries” Black Chokeberries (Aronia melanocarpa) and Related Teas

by Iva Juranović Cindrić¹, Michaela Zeiner^2,*

, Darija Mihajlov-Konanov¹ and Gerhard Stingeder²

¹ Division of Analytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Horvatovac 102a, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia

² Department of Chemistry, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Muthgasse 18, Vienna 1190, Austria

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 539; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050539 - 18 May 2017

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 6098

Abstract

Black chokeberries (Aronia melanocarpa) are considered to be functional food containing high amounts of anthocyanins, phenols, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Whereas organic compounds are well studied, there is little research on the mineral composition of the chokeberries. Thus, the presented study [...] Read more.

Black chokeberries (Aronia melanocarpa) are considered to be functional food containing high amounts of anthocyanins, phenols, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Whereas organic compounds are well studied, there is little research on the mineral composition of the chokeberries. Thus, the presented study is focused on the determination of Al, As, Ba, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, Pb, Se, Sr and Zn in black chokeberry fruits and infusions to study the metals’ extractability. The nutrients Ca, K and Mg are present in the fruits (dried matter) at g/kg level, whereas the other elements are present from µg/kg up to mg/kg level. The extraction yields of the metals from the infusion range from 4 (Al, Mn) up to 44% (Na). The toxic elements present do not pose any health risk when berries or infusions are consumed. Concluding, Aronia berries, as well as infusions derived from them, are a good dietary source of essential metals in addition to the organic compounds also contained. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heavy Metals: Environmental and Human Health)

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13 pages, 1083 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is Increasing Coal Seam Gas Well Development Activity Associated with Increasing Hospitalisation Rates in Queensland, Australia? An Exploratory Analysis 1995–2011

by Angela K. Werner^1,*, Cate M. Cameron², Kerrianne Watt³, Sue Vink¹, Paul Jagals⁴

and Andrew Page⁵

¹ Sustainable Minerals Institute, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia

² Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Logan, QLD 4131, Australia

³ College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia

⁴ Children’s Health and Environment Programme, University of Queensland, Centre for Children’s Health Research, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia

⁵ Centre for Health Research, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2150, Australia

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050540 - 18 May 2017

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5672

Abstract

The majority of Australia’s coal seam gas (CSG) reserves are in Queensland, where the industry has expanded rapidly in recent years. Despite concerns, health data have not been examined alongside CSG development. This study examined hospitalisation rates as a function of CSG development [...] Read more.

The majority of Australia’s coal seam gas (CSG) reserves are in Queensland, where the industry has expanded rapidly in recent years. Despite concerns, health data have not been examined alongside CSG development. This study examined hospitalisation rates as a function of CSG development activity in Queensland, during the period 1995–2011. Admissions data were examined with CSG well numbers, which served as a proxy for CSG development activity. Time series models were used to assess changes in hospitalisation rates for periods of “low”, “medium”, “high”, and “intense” activity compared to a period of “very low” activity, adjusting for covariates. “All-cause” hospitalisation rates increased monotonically with increasing gas well development activity in females (324.0 to 390.3 per 1000 persons) and males (294.2 to 335.4 per 1000 persons). Hospitalisation rates for “Blood/immune” conditions generally increased for both sexes. Female and male hospitalisation rates for “Circulatory” conditions decreased with increasing CSG activity. Hospitalisation rates were generally low for reproductive and birth outcomes; no clear associations were observed. This study showed some outcomes were associated with increasing CSG development activity. However, as a condition of data access, the population and outcomes were aggregated to a broad geographic study area rather than using higher geographic resolution data. Higher resolution data, as well as other data sources, should be explored. Further research should be conducted with an expanded time period to determine if these trends continue as the industry grows. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)

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11 pages, 299 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Violence Victimization in Korean Adolescents: Risk Factors and Psychological Problems

by Subin Park^1,*

, Yeeun Lee², Hyesue Jang¹ and Minkyung Jo¹

¹ Department of Research Planning, Mental Health Research Institute, National Center for Mental Health 127, Yongmasan-ro, Gwangin-gu, Seoul 04933, Korea

² Department of Psychology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Korea

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050541 - 19 May 2017

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 6112

Abstract

We examined the risk factors for and psychological problems associated with violence victimization in a nationwide representative sample of Korean adolescents. Data from the 2016 Korean Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey was used. Participants were asked about their experience of being a victim [...] Read more.

We examined the risk factors for and psychological problems associated with violence victimization in a nationwide representative sample of Korean adolescents. Data from the 2016 Korean Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey was used. Participants were asked about their experience of being a victim of violence that required medical treatment during the past 12 months, as well as their perceived health, happiness, sleep satisfaction, stress, depressed mood, and suicidality. The 12-month prevalence of violence victimization requiring medical treatment was 2.4%. The results indicated that adolescents were at an increased risk for violence victimization if they were male, older, had parents of a foreign nationality, did not reside with their family, worked part time, resided in small cities or rural areas, were high or low in socioeconomic status (SES), exhibited high or low levels of academic performance, used alcohol or tobacco, and were sexually active. In addition, while violence victimization was negatively associated with perceived health and happiness, it was positively associated with perceived stress, depressed mood, and suicidality. The results indicate that a social disadvantage, involvement in risky behavior, and psychological problems are associated with violence victimization. Effective violence prevention efforts should thus target high-risk groups, and clinical attention is needed to address the psychological costs associated with violence victimization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Youth Violence as a Public Health Issue)

14 pages, 1118 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Birth Outcomes after the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Disaster: A Long-Term Retrospective Study

by Claire Leppold^1,2,*, Shuhei Nomura^3,4, Toyoaki Sawano⁵, Akihiko Ozaki⁵, Masaharu Tsubokura⁶

, Sarah Hill², Yukio Kanazawa⁶ and Hiroshi Anbe⁷

¹ Global Public Health Unit, School of Social and Political Science, University of Edinburgh, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9LD, UK

² Department of Research, Minamisoma Municipal General Hospital, Minamisoma, Fukushima 975-0033, Japan

³ Department of Global Health Policy, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan

⁴ Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK

⁵ Department of Surgery, Minamisoma Municipal General Hospital, Minamisoma, Fukushima 975-0033, Japan

⁶ Department of Radiation Protection, Minamisoma Municipal General Hospital, Minamisoma, Fukushima 975-0033, Japan

⁷ Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Minamisoma Municipal General Hospital, Minamisoma, Fukushima 975-0033, Japan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 542; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050542 - 19 May 2017

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 10422

Abstract

Changes in population birth outcomes, including increases in low birthweight or preterm births, have been documented after natural and manmade disasters. However, information is limited following the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Disaster. In this study, we assessed whether there were long-term [...] Read more.

Changes in population birth outcomes, including increases in low birthweight or preterm births, have been documented after natural and manmade disasters. However, information is limited following the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Disaster. In this study, we assessed whether there were long-term changes in birth outcomes post-disaster, compared to pre-disaster data, and whether residential area and food purchasing patterns, as proxy measurements of evacuation and radiation-related anxiety, were associated with post-disaster birth outcomes. Maternal and perinatal data were retrospectively collected for all live singleton births at a public hospital, located 23 km from the power plant, from 2008 to 2015. Proportions of low birthweight (<2500 g at birth) and preterm births (<37 weeks gestation at birth) were compared pre- and post-disaster, and regression models were conducted to assess for associations between these outcomes and evacuation and food avoidance. A total of 1101 live singleton births were included. There were no increased proportions of low birthweight or preterm births in any year after the disaster (merged post-disaster risk ratio of low birthweight birth: 0.98, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.64–1.51; and preterm birth: 0.68, 95% CI: 0.38–1.21). No significant associations between birth outcomes and residential area or food purchasing patterns were identified, after adjustment for covariates. In conclusion, no changes in birth outcomes were found in this institution-based investigation after the Fukushima disaster. Further research is needed on the pathways that may exacerbate or reduce disaster effects on maternal and perinatal health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)

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11 pages, 295 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is Neighborhood Green Space Protective against Associations between Child Asthma, Neighborhood Traffic Volume and Perceived Lack of Area Safety? Multilevel Analysis of 4447 Australian Children

by Xiaoqi Feng^1,2,3,* and Thomas Astell-Burt^1,2,3

¹ Population Wellbeing and Environment Research Lab (PowerLab), School of Health and Society, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia

² Early Start, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia

³ Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 543; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050543 - 19 May 2017

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 8442

Abstract

Heavy traffic is a source of air pollution and a safety concern with important public health implications. We investigated whether green space lowers child asthma risk by buffering the effects of heavy traffic and a lack of neighborhood safety. Multilevel models were used [...] Read more.

Heavy traffic is a source of air pollution and a safety concern with important public health implications. We investigated whether green space lowers child asthma risk by buffering the effects of heavy traffic and a lack of neighborhood safety. Multilevel models were used to analyze affirmative asthma cases in nationally representative cross-sectional data from 4447 children aged 6–7 years old in Australia. Case-finding was based upon a triangulation of affirmative responses to three questions on doctor-diagnosed asthma, asthma-related medications and illness with wheezing lasting for at least 1 week within the 12 months prior. Among children considered to be exposed to high traffic volumes and areas with 0 to 20% green space quantity, the odds ratio of affirmative asthma was 1.87 (95% CI 1.37 to 2.55). However, the association between heavy traffic and asthma was significantly lower for participants living in areas with over 40% green space coverage (odds ratio for interaction 0.32, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.84). No association between affirmative asthma and green space coverage was observed for participants not exposed to heavy traffic, nor for the area safety variable. Protecting existing and investing in new green space may help to promote child respiratory health through the buffering of traffic-related air pollution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landscapes and Human Health)

25 pages, 336 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Workplace Hazards Faced by Nursing Assistants in the United States: A Focused Literature Review

by AnnMarie Lee Walton^1,* and Bonnie Rogers²

¹ The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing, 4008 Carrington Hall, CB# 7460, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA

² North Carolina Occupational Safety and Health Education and Research Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, 1700 Airport Road Rm 343, CB# 7502, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 544; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050544 - 19 May 2017

Cited by 69 | Viewed by 14813

Abstract

Nursing assistants (NAs) make up a large share of the healthcare provider workforce and their numbers are expected to grow. NAs are predominantly women who earn a low wage and report financial, work, and family demands. Working as a NA is hazardous; this [...] Read more.

Nursing assistants (NAs) make up a large share of the healthcare provider workforce and their numbers are expected to grow. NAs are predominantly women who earn a low wage and report financial, work, and family demands. Working as a NA is hazardous; this manuscript specifically examines the biological/infectious, chemical, enviromechanical, physical and psychosocial hazards that appear in the literature to date. A focused search strategy was used to review literature about hazards that fell into each of the five aforementioned domains. While some hazards that were documented were clear, such as exposure to influenza because of close contact with patients (biological/infectious), or exposure to hazardous drugs (chemical), literature was limited. The majority of the literature we reviewed fell into the domain of psychosocial hazards and centered on stress from workplace organization issues (such as mandatory overtime, lack of managerial support, and feeling rushed). More research is needed to understand which hazards NAs identify as most concerning and tailored interventions are needed for risk mitigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women’s Health and the Work Environment)

16 pages, 326 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Cost-Effectiveness of a Community Exercise and Nutrition Program for Older Adults: Texercise Select

by Olufolake (Odufuwa) Akanni¹

, Matthew Lee Smith^2,3 and Marcia G. Ory^2,*

¹ Department of Economics, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA

² Institute of Gerontology, College of Public Health, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30606, USA

³ Center for Population Health and Aging, Texas A&M School of Public Health, College Station, TX 77842, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 545; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050545 - 20 May 2017

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 8070

Abstract

The wide-spread dissemination of evidence-based programs that can improve health outcomes among older populations often requires an understanding of factors influencing community adoption of such programs. One such program is Texercise Select, a community-based health promotion program previously shown to improve functional [...] Read more.

The wide-spread dissemination of evidence-based programs that can improve health outcomes among older populations often requires an understanding of factors influencing community adoption of such programs. One such program is Texercise Select, a community-based health promotion program previously shown to improve functional health, physical activity, nutritional habits and quality of the life among older adults. This paper assesses the cost-effectiveness of Texercise Select in the context of supportive environments to facilitate its delivery and statewide sustainability. Participants were surveyed using self-reported instruments distributed at program baseline and conclusion. Program costs were based on actual direct costs of program implementation and included costs of recruitment and outreach, personnel costs and participant incentives. Program effectiveness was measured using quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained, as well as health outcomes, such as healthy days, weekly physical activity and Timed Up-and-Go (TUG) test scores. Preference-based EuroQol (EQ-5D) scores were estimated from the number of healthy days reported by participants and converted into QALYs. There was a significant increase in the number of healthy days (p < 0.05) over the 12-week program. Cost-effectiveness ratios ranged from $1374 to $1452 per QALY gained. The reported cost-effective ratios are well within the common cost-effectiveness threshold of $50,000 for a gained QALY. Some sociodemographic differences were also observed in program impact and cost. Non-Hispanic whites experienced significant improvements in healthy days from baseline to the follow-up period and had higher cost-effectiveness ratios. Results indicate that the Texercise Select program is a cost-effective strategy for increasing physical activity and improving healthy dietary practices among older adults as compared to similar health promotion interventions. In line with the significant improvement in healthy days, physical activity and nutrition-related outcomes among participants, this study supports the use of Texercise Select as an intervention with substantial health and cost benefits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Health Promotion)

10 pages, 1290 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Occurrence and Diversity of Waterborne Fungi in African Aquatic Systems: Their Impact on Water Quality and Human Health

by Nontokozo M. Magwaza, Edward N. Nxumalo, Bhekie B. Mamba and Titus A. M. Msagati^*

Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability Research Unit, College of Science Engineering and Technology, University of South Africa, Roodepoort, 1710 Johannesburg, South Africa

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 546; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050546 - 20 May 2017

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 6290

Abstract

Currently, there is a worldwide growing interest in the occurrence and diversity of fungi and their secondary metabolites in aquatic systems, especially concerning their role in water quality and human health. However, this concern is hampered by the scant information that is available [...] Read more.

Currently, there is a worldwide growing interest in the occurrence and diversity of fungi and their secondary metabolites in aquatic systems, especially concerning their role in water quality and human health. However, this concern is hampered by the scant information that is available in the literature about aquatic fungi and how they affect water quality. There are only few published reports that link certain species of aquatic fungi to human health. The common aquatic fungal species that have been reported so far in African aquatic systems belong to the hyphomycetes kingdom. This paper thus aims to survey the information about the occurrence and factors that control the distribution of different species of fungi in African aquatic systems, as well as their effect on water quality and the possible metabolic pathways that lead to the formation of toxic secondary metabolites that are responsible for the deterioration of water quality. This review will also investigate the analytical and bioanalytical procedures that have been reported for the identification of different species of waterborne fungi and their secondary metabolites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Aquatic Microbial and Chemical Contaminants of Concern and Their Impact on Human Health)

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17 pages, 1575 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A qPCR-Based Tool to Diagnose the Presence of Harmful Cyanobacteria and Cyanotoxins in Drinking Water Sources

by Yi-Ting Chiu¹

, Yi-Hsuan Chen¹, Ting-Shaun Wang¹, Hung-Kai Yen² and Tsair-Fuh Lin^1,*

¹ Department of Environmental Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan

² Department of Biological Science and Technology, Meiho University, Pingtung 91202, Taiwan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 547; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050547 - 20 May 2017

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 6327

Abstract

Harmful cyanobacteria have been an important concern for drinking water quality for quite some time, as they may produce cyanotoxins and odorants. Microcystis and Cylindrospermopsis are two common harmful cyanobacterial genera detected in freshwater lakes and reservoirs, with microcystins (MCs) and cylindrospermopsin (CYN) [...] Read more.

Harmful cyanobacteria have been an important concern for drinking water quality for quite some time, as they may produce cyanotoxins and odorants. Microcystis and Cylindrospermopsis are two common harmful cyanobacterial genera detected in freshwater lakes and reservoirs, with microcystins (MCs) and cylindrospermopsin (CYN) as their important metabolites, respectively. In this study, two sets of duplex qPCR systems were developed, one for quantifying potentially-toxigenic Microcystis and Microcystis, and the other one for cylindrospermopsin-producing cyanobacteria and Cylindrospermopsis. The duplex qPCR systems were developed and validated in the laboratory by using 338 samples collected from 29 reservoirs in Taiwan and her offshore islands. Results show that cell numbers of Microcystis and Cylindorspermopsis enumerated with microscopy, and MCs and CYN concentrations measured with the enzyme-linked immuno-sorbent assay method, correlated well with their corresponding gene copies determined with the qPCR systems (range of coefficients of determination R² = 0.392−0.740). The developed qPCR approach may serve as a useful tool for the water industry to diagnose the presence of harmful cyanobacteria and the potential presence of cyanotoxins in source waters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Pollution and Human Health Risk)

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16 pages, 1082 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Drinking Water Disinfectant Byproducts Compliance Data as an Indirect Measure for Short-Term Exposure in Humans

by Shahid Parvez^1,*

, Kali Frost¹ and Madhura Sundararajan²

¹ Department of Environmental Health Science, Indiana University Fairbanks School of Public Health, 1050 Wishard Boulevard, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA

² Department of Epidemiology, Indiana University Fairbanks School of Public Health, 1050 Wishard Boulevard, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 548; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050548 - 20 May 2017

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5157

Abstract

In the absence of shorter term disinfectant byproducts (DBPs) data on regulated Trihalomethanes (THMs) and Haloacetic acids (HAAs), epidemiologists and risk assessors have used long-term annual compliance (LRAA) or quarterly (QA) data to evaluate the association between DBP exposure and adverse birth outcomes, [...] Read more.

In the absence of shorter term disinfectant byproducts (DBPs) data on regulated Trihalomethanes (THMs) and Haloacetic acids (HAAs), epidemiologists and risk assessors have used long-term annual compliance (LRAA) or quarterly (QA) data to evaluate the association between DBP exposure and adverse birth outcomes, which resulted in inconclusive findings. Therefore, we evaluated the reliability of using long-term LRAA and QA data as an indirect measure for short-term exposure. Short-term residential tap water samples were collected in peak DBP months (May–August) in a community water system with five separate treatment stations and were sourced from surface or groundwater. Samples were analyzed for THMs and HAAs per the EPA (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) standard methods (524.2 and 552.2). The measured levels of total THMs and HAAs were compared temporally and spatially with LRAA and QA data, which showed significant differences (p < 0.05). Most samples from surface water stations showed higher levels than LRAA or QA. Significant numbers of samples in surface water stations exceeded regulatory permissible limits: 27% had excessive THMs and 35% had excessive HAAs. Trichloromethane, trichloroacetic acid, and dichloroacetic acid were the major drivers of variability. This study suggests that LRAA and QA data are not good proxies of short-term exposure. Further investigation is needed to determine if other drinking water systems show consistent findings for improved regulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)

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20 pages, 6358 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Ensemble Spatiotemporal Model for Predicting PM_2.5 Concentrations

by Lianfa Li^1,2,*,†, Jiehao Zhang^1,2,†, Wenyang Qiu^1,2, Jinfeng Wang^1,2 and Ying Fang^1,2

¹ State Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental Information Systems, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No A11, Datun Road, Beijing 100101, China

² University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China

^† The authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 549; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050549 - 22 May 2017

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 6129

Abstract

Although fine particulate matter with a diameter of <2.5 μm (PM_2.5) has a greater negative impact on human health than particulate matter with a diameter of <10 μm (PM₁₀), measurements of PM_2.5 have only recently been performed, and [...] Read more.

Although fine particulate matter with a diameter of <2.5 μm (PM_2.5) has a greater negative impact on human health than particulate matter with a diameter of <10 μm (PM₁₀), measurements of PM_2.5 have only recently been performed, and the spatial coverage of these measurements is limited. Comprehensively assessing PM_2.5 pollution levels and the cumulative health effects is difficult because PM_2.5 monitoring data for prior time periods and certain regions are not available. In this paper, we propose a promising approach for robustly predicting PM_2.5 concentrations. In our approach, a generalized additive model is first used to quantify the non-linear associations between predictors and PM_2.5, the bagging method is used to sample the dataset and train different models to reduce the bias in prediction, and the variogram for the daily residuals of the ensemble predictions is then simulated to improve our predictions. Shandong Province, China, is the study region, and data from 96 monitoring stations were included. To train and validate the models, we used PM_2.5 measurement data from 2014 with other predictors, including PM₁₀ data, meteorological parameters, remote sensing data, and land-use data. The validation results revealed that the R² value was improved and reached 0.89 when PM₁₀ was used as a predictor and a kriging interpolation was performed for the residuals. However, when PM₁₀ was not used as a predictor, our method still achieved a CV R² value of up to 0.86. The ensemble of spatial characteristics of relevant factors explained approximately 32% of the variance and improved the PM_2.5 predictions. The spatiotemporal modeling approach to estimating PM_2.5 concentrations presented in this paper has important implications for assessing PM_2.5 exposure and its cumulative health effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Modelling for Public Health Research)

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12 pages, 454 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Early Childhood Dental Caries, Mouth Pain, and Malnutrition in the Ecuadorian Amazon Region

by Marvin So^1,*,†

, Yianni A. Ellenikiotis^2,†, Hannah M. Husby³, Cecilia Leonor Paz⁴, Brittany Seymour^5,‡ and Karen Sokal-Gutierrez^6,‡

¹ Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA

² Harvard School of Dental Medicine, 188 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA

³ University of California Los Angeles Fielding School of Public Health, 650 Charles E. Young Drive S., Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA

⁴ Doctor en Odontología General, Quito, Ecuador

⁵ Department of Oral Health Policy and Epidemiology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, 188 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA

⁶ University of California, Berkeley-University of California San Francisco Joint Medical Program, University of California, Berkeley School of Public Health, 570 University Hall, MC 1190, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA

^† Joint First Authors.

^‡ Joint Senior Authors.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 550; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050550 - 22 May 2017

Cited by 41 | Viewed by 9344

Abstract

Malnutrition and dental caries in early childhood remain persistent and intertwined global health challenges, particularly for indigenous and geographically-remote populations. To examine the prevalence and associations between early childhood dental caries, parent-reported mouth pain and malnutrition in the Amazonian region of Ecuador, we [...] Read more.

Malnutrition and dental caries in early childhood remain persistent and intertwined global health challenges, particularly for indigenous and geographically-remote populations. To examine the prevalence and associations between early childhood dental caries, parent-reported mouth pain and malnutrition in the Amazonian region of Ecuador, we conducted a cross-sectional study of the oral health and nutrition status of 1407 children from birth through age 6 in the “Alli Kiru” program (2011–2013). We used multivariate regression analysis to examine relationships between severe caries, parent-reported mouth pain measures, and nutritional status. The prevalence of dental caries was 65.4%, with 44.7% of children having deep or severe caries, and 33.8% reporting mouth pain. The number of decayed, missing and filled teeth (dmft) increased dramatically with age. Malnutrition was prevalent, with 35.9% of children stunted, 1.1% wasted, 7.4% underweight, and 6.8% overweight. As mouth pain increased in frequency, odds for severe caries increased. For each unit increase in mouth pain frequency interfering with sleeping, children had increased odds for being underweight (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR): 1.27; 95% CI: 1.02–1.54) and decreased odds for being overweight (AOR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.58–0.97). This relationship was most pronounced among 3–6 year-olds. Early childhood caries, mouth pain and malnutrition were prevalent in this sample of young children. Parent-reported mouth pain was associated with severe caries, and mouth pain interfering with sleeping was predictive of poor nutritional status. We demonstrate the utility of a parsimonious parent-reported measure of mouth pain to predict young children’s risk for severe early childhood caries and malnutrition, which has implications for community health interventions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology and Determinants of Dental Caries in Children)

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13 pages, 302 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in Objectively-Determined Walkability and Physical Activity in Adults: A Quasi-Longitudinal Residential Relocation Study

by Gavin R. McCormack^*, Lindsay McLaren, Grazia Salvo and Anita Blackstaffe

Department of Community Health Science, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 551; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050551 - 22 May 2017

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 5627

Abstract

Causal evidence for the built environment’s role in supporting physical activity is needed to inform land use and transportation policies. This quasi-longitudinal residential relocation study compared within-person changes in self-reported transportation walking, transportation cycling, and overall physical activity during the past 12 months [...] Read more.

Causal evidence for the built environment’s role in supporting physical activity is needed to inform land use and transportation policies. This quasi-longitudinal residential relocation study compared within-person changes in self-reported transportation walking, transportation cycling, and overall physical activity during the past 12 months among adults who did and did not move to a different neighbourhood. In 2014, a random sample of adults from 12 neighbourhoods (Calgary, AB, Canada) with varying urban form and socioeconomic status provided complete self-administered questionnaire data (n = 915). Participants, some of whom moved neighbourhood during the past 12 months (n = 95), reported their perceived change in transportation walking and cycling, and overall physical activity during that period. The questionnaire also captured residential self-selection, and sociodemographic and health characteristics. Walk Scores^® were linked to each participant’s current and previous neighbourhood and three groups identified: walkability “improvers” (n = 48); “decliners” (n = 47), and; “maintainers” (n = 820). Perceived change in physical activity was compared between the three groups using propensity score covariate-adjusted Firth logistic regression (odds ratios: OR). Compared with walkability maintainers, walkability decliners (OR 4.37) and improvers (OR 4.14) were more likely (p < 0.05) to report an increase in their transportation walking since moving neighbourhood, while walkability decliners were also more likely (OR 3.17) to report decreasing their transportation walking since moving. Walkability improvers were more likely than maintainers to increase their transportation cycling since moving neighbourhood (OR 4.22). Temporal changes in neighbourhood walkability resulting from residential relocation appear to be associated with reported temporal changes in transportation walking and cycling in adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social and Environmental Influences on Physical Activity Behaviours)

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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health, Volume 14, Issue 5 (May 2017) – 99 articles

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