13 pages, 941 KiB  
Article
Assessing COVID-19-Related Excess Mortality Using Multiple Approaches—Italy, 2020–2021
by Emiliano Ceccarelli 1,*, Maria Dorrucci 2, Giada Minelli 1, Giovanna Jona Lasinio 3, Sabrina Prati 4, Marco Battaglini 4, Gianni Corsetti 4, Antonino Bella 2, Stefano Boros 2, Daniele Petrone 2, Flavia Riccardo 2, Antonello Maruotti 5 and Patrizio Pezzotti 2
1 Statistical Service, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
2 Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
3 Department of Statistical Sciences, La Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
4 Division of Population Register, Demographic and Living Conditions Statistics, Italian National Institute of Statistics, 00184 Rome, Italy
5 Dipartimento GEPLI, Libera Università Maria Ss Assunta, 00193 Rome, Italy
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16998; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416998 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2504
Abstract
Introduction: Excess mortality (EM) is a valid indicator of COVID-19’s impact on public health. Several studies regarding the estimation of EM have been conducted in Italy, and some of them have shown conflicting values. We focused on three estimation models and compared their [...] Read more.
Introduction: Excess mortality (EM) is a valid indicator of COVID-19’s impact on public health. Several studies regarding the estimation of EM have been conducted in Italy, and some of them have shown conflicting values. We focused on three estimation models and compared their results with respect to the same target population, which allowed us to highlight their strengths and limitations. Methods: We selected three estimation models: model 1 (Maruotti et al.) is a Negative-Binomial GLMM with seasonal patterns; model 2 (Dorrucci et al.) is a Negative Binomial GLM epidemiological approach; and model 3 (Scortichini et al.) is a quasi-Poisson GLM time-series approach with temperature distributions. We extended the time windows of the original models until December 2021, computing various EM estimates to allow for comparisons. Results: We compared the results with our benchmark, the ISS-ISTAT official estimates. Model 1 was the most consistent, model 2 was almost identical, and model 3 differed from the two. Model 1 was the most stable towards changes in the baseline years, while model 2 had a lower cross-validation RMSE. Discussion: Presently, an unambiguous explanation of EM in Italy is not possible. We provide a range that we consider sound, given the high variability associated with the use of different models. However, all three models accurately represented the spatiotemporal trends of the pandemic waves in Italy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on Overall and Cause-Specific Mortality)
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17 pages, 5555 KiB  
Article
Associations of Indoor Environmental Quality Parameters with Students’ Perceptions in Undergraduate Dormitories: A Field Study in Beijing during a Transition Season
by Dan Miao, Xiaodong Cao * and Wenxin Zuo
School of Aeronautic Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16997; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416997 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3390
Abstract
A healthy and comfortable dormitory environment is crucial to the quality of students’ daily lives. In this field study, the indoor environmental quality (IEQ) parameters of undergraduate dormitories in Beijing were measured, while questionnaire surveys were conducted to evaluate the corresponding subjective perceptions [...] Read more.
A healthy and comfortable dormitory environment is crucial to the quality of students’ daily lives. In this field study, the indoor environmental quality (IEQ) parameters of undergraduate dormitories in Beijing were measured, while questionnaire surveys were conducted to evaluate the corresponding subjective perceptions of students. Integrated environmental monitoring kits were used to collect temperature, relative humidity, CO2, PM2.5, PM10, TVOC, formaldehyde, and noise data in the investigated dormitories, during the transition season from winter to spring. Questionnaires and scales were distributed to obtain the students’ subjective perceptions of and satisfaction with the IEQ, and their health and well-being status. The measured IEQ data showed that the thermal environment tended to be warm and dry during the heating period. The CO2 concentrations seriously exceeded standard levels due to insufficient indoor natural ventilation. Noise exposure could sometimes interfere with students’ rest. The students’ overall satisfaction with the dormitory environment was low, especially in terms of air quality and acoustic environment. The unsatisfactory IEQ factors have led to several health symptoms, poor sleep quality, and slightly lower well-being. Correlations were found between the IEQ parameters and the corresponding subjective perceptions and satisfaction levels. It was speculated that students’ satisfaction and well-being could be effectively improved by appropriately adjusting the corresponding IEQ parameters. Full article
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17 pages, 2393 KiB  
Article
Higher Infection Risk among Health Care Workers and Lower Risk among Smokers Persistent across SARS-CoV-2 Waves—Longitudinal Results from the Population-Based TiKoCo Seroprevalence Study
by Felix Günther 1, Sebastian Einhauser 2, David Peterhoff 2,3, Simon Wiegrebe 4,5, Hans Helmut Niller 2, Stephanie Beileke 6, Philipp Steininger 6, Ralph Burkhardt 7, Helmut Küchenhoff 5, Olaf Gefeller 8, Klaus Überla 6, Iris M. Heid 4,* and Ralf Wagner 2,3,*
1 Department of Mathematics, Stockholm University, Albanovägen 28, 11419 Stockholm, Sweden
2 Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Molecular Microbiology (Virology), University of Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
3 Institute of Clinical Microbiology and Hygiene, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
4 Department of Genetic Epidemiology, University of Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
5 Statistical Consulting Unit StaBLab, Department of Statistics, LMU Munich, Geschwister-Scholl-Platz 1, 80539 Munich, Germany
6 Institute of Clinical and Molecular Virology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schlossgarten 4, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
7 Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
8 Department of Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Waldstr. 6, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16996; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416996 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2247
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence was reported as substantially increased in medical personnel and decreased in smokers after the first wave in spring 2020, including in our population-based Tirschenreuth Study (TiKoCo). However, it is unclear whether these associations were limited to the early pandemic and whether [...] Read more.
SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence was reported as substantially increased in medical personnel and decreased in smokers after the first wave in spring 2020, including in our population-based Tirschenreuth Study (TiKoCo). However, it is unclear whether these associations were limited to the early pandemic and whether the decrease in smokers was due to reduced infection or antibody response. We evaluated the association of occupation and smoking with period-specific seropositivity: for the first wave until July 2020 (baseline, BL), the low infection period in summer (follow-up 1, FU1, November 2020), and the second/third wave (FU2, April 2021). We measured binding antibodies directed to SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein (N), viral spike protein (S), and neutralizing antibodies at BL, FU1, and FU2. Previous infection, vaccination, smoking, and occupation were assessed by questionnaires. The 4181 participants (3513/3374 at FU1/FU2) included 6.5% medical personnel and 20.4% current smokers. At all three timepoints, new seropositivity was higher in medical personnel with ORs = 1.99 (95%-CI = 1.36–2.93), 1.41 (0.29–6.80), and 3.17 (1.92–5.24) at BL, FU1, and FU2, respectively, and nearly halved among current smokers with ORs = 0.47 (95%-CI = 0.33–0.66), 0.40 (0.09–1.81), and 0.56 (0.33–0.94). Current smokers compared to never-smokers had similar antibody levels after infection or vaccination and reduced odds of a positive SARS-CoV-2 result among tested. Our data suggest that decreased seroprevalence among smokers results from fewer infections rather than reduced antibody response. The persistently higher infection risk of medical staff across infection waves, despite improved means of protection over time, underscores the burden for health care personnel. Full article
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15 pages, 359 KiB  
Review
Digital-Based Policy and Health Promotion Policy in Japan, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, and Thailand: A Scoping Review of Policy Paths to Healthy Aging
by Nadila Mulati 1, Myo Nyein Aung 1,2,3,*, Malcolm Field 4,5, Eun Woo Nam 6, Carol Ma Hok Ka 7, Saiyud Moolphate 8, Hocheol Lee 6, Yuki Goto 9,10, Nam Hae Kweun 11, Takumi Suda 1,12, Yuka Koyanagi 1,13, Yuiko Nagamine 14 and Motoyuki Yuasa 1,3
1 Department of Global Health Research, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Hongo 2-1-1, Bunkyo Ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
2 Advanced Research Institute for Health Sciences, Juntendo University, Hongo 2-1-1, Bunkyo Ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
3 Faculty of International Liberal Arts, Juntendo University, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
4 Faculty of Social Sciences, Kyorin University, Tokyo 181-8611, Japan
5 Faculty of International Liberal Arts, Waseda University, Tokyo 169-0051, Japan
6 Department of Health Administration, Software Digital Healthcare Convergence College, Yonsei University, Wonju 26493, Republic of Korea
7 Gerontology Programmes & Senior Fellow (Service-Learning & Community Engagement), Centre for Experiential Learning, S R Nathan School of Human Development, Singapore University of Social Science, 463 Clementi Road, Singapore 599494, Singapore
8 Department of Public Health, Faculty of Science and Technology, Chiang Mai Rajabhat University, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
9 Department of Global Health Promotion, Tokyo Dental and Medical University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
10 Department of Family Medicine, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Dental and Medical University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
11 Department of Preventive Medicine, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
12 Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, 35-2 Sakae-cho, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan
13 Department of Judo Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Tokyo Ariake University of Medical and Health Sciences, Tokyo 135-0063, Japan
14 Division of the Health for the Elderly, Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, 1-2-2 Kasumigaseki Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8916, Japan
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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16995; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416995 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 6374
Abstract
People are living longer, and our life has become more digital. Hence, the benefits from digital technology, including economic growth, increasing labor productivity, and ensuring health equity in the face of an aging population emerged as a vital topic for countries around the [...] Read more.
People are living longer, and our life has become more digital. Hence, the benefits from digital technology, including economic growth, increasing labor productivity, and ensuring health equity in the face of an aging population emerged as a vital topic for countries around the world. Japan, the Republic of Korea (ROK), Singapore, and Thailand are in the top ten rankings in terms of information and communication technology (ICT) development within the Asia Pacific Region and all are facing challenges of population aging. Well-designed national ICT policy and health promotion policies enabled the countries to make significant progress and development in terms of digitalization and healthy aging. This paper aims to answer questions regarding digitization and health promotion: when it started, how it is going, what are the achievements, and what it holds for the future, considering healthy aging and digitalization by reviewing the national ICT policy and health promotion policies of Japan, Korea, Singapore, and Thailand. This paper is expected to help readers build a comprehensive understanding of each country’s journey towards building a healthy aging digital society. Furthermore, we hope this paper can be a source for countries to exchange experiences and learn from each other with a joint goal of building a healthy aging digital society. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Aging)
18 pages, 1690 KiB  
Article
Study of the Phytoextraction and Phytodegradation of Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim from Water by Limnobium laevigatum
by Klaudia Stando 1,*, Aleksandra Czyż 1, Magdalena Gajda 1, Ewa Felis 2,3 and Sylwia Bajkacz 1,2,*
1 Department of Inorganic, Analytical Chemistry and Electrochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Silesian University of Technology, B. Krzywoustego 6 Str., 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
2 Biotechnology Centre, Silesian University of Technology, B. Krzywoustego 8 Str., 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
3 Environmental Biotechnology Department, Faculty of Power and Environmental Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, Akademicka 2 Str., 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16994; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416994 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2979
Abstract
Phytoremediation is an environmentally friendly and economical method for removing organic contaminants from water. The purpose of the present study was to use Limnobium laevigatum for the phytoremediation of water from sulfamethoxazole (SMX) and trimethoprim (TRI) residues. The experiment was conducted for 14 [...] Read more.
Phytoremediation is an environmentally friendly and economical method for removing organic contaminants from water. The purpose of the present study was to use Limnobium laevigatum for the phytoremediation of water from sulfamethoxazole (SMX) and trimethoprim (TRI) residues. The experiment was conducted for 14 days, in which the loss of the pharmaceuticals in water and their concentration in plant tissues was monitored. Determination of SMX and TRI was conducted using liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. The results revealed that various factors affected the removal of the contaminants from water, and their bioaccumulation coefficients were obtained. Additionally, the transformation products of SMX and TRI were identified. The observed decrease in SMX and TRI content after 14 days was 96.0% and 75.4% in water, respectively. SMX removal mainly involved photolysis and hydrolysis processes, whereas TRI was mostly absorbed by the plant. Bioaccumulation coefficients of the freeze-dried plant were in the range of 0.043–0.147 for SMX and 2.369–2.588 for TRI. Nine and six transformation products related to SMX and TRI, respectively, were identified in water and plant tissues. The detected transformation products stemmed from metabolic transformations and photolysis of the parent compounds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Editorial Board Members' Collection Series: Pollution Prevention and Waste Management)
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21 pages, 384 KiB  
Article
Do Environmental Regulations Promote or Inhibit Cities’ Innovation Capacity? Evidence from China
by Xiaowen Zeng 1, Ming Jin 2 and Shuang Pan 3,*
1 The Faculty of Economics, Guangdong University of Finance & Economics, Guangzhou 510320, China
2 School of Economics, Zhejiang University of Finance and Economics, Hangzhou 310018, China
3 School of Accountancy, Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics, Nanchang 330013, China
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16993; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416993 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1838
Abstract
The “Porter Hypothesis” proposes that appropriate environmental regulations would promote firm innovation. This study aims to build a theoretical model for illustrating the impact and mechanism of environmental regulation on urban innovation through a panel of 281 Chinese prefecture-level cities during 2003–2016. The [...] Read more.
The “Porter Hypothesis” proposes that appropriate environmental regulations would promote firm innovation. This study aims to build a theoretical model for illustrating the impact and mechanism of environmental regulation on urban innovation through a panel of 281 Chinese prefecture-level cities during 2003–2016. The results indicated that an increase in environmental regulation markedly suppressed the innovative capacity of Chinese cities during the sample period. This inhibitory effect is primarily transmitted through two mediating variables: lower regional fiscal revenue and reduced manufacturing output. Moreover, improved regional economic development level helps generate positive incentives for environmental regulation and mitigate its inhibitions to innovation. Environmental regulation and urban innovation might have a non-linear U-shape relation, with the former helping improve urban innovation capacity upon reaching a particular level. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Greening Urban Spaces: A Healthy Community Design)
18 pages, 7378 KiB  
Article
Challenges in the Diagnosis of Tertiary Syphilis: Case Report with Literature Review
by Lucyna Jankowska 1, Zygmunt Adamski 1, Adriana Polańska 2, Monika Bowszyc-Dmochowska 1, Katarzyna Plagens-Rotman 3,*, Piotr Merks 4, Magdalena Czarnecka-Operacz 5 and Ryszard Żaba 2
1 Department of Dermatology, Heliodor Święcicki Clinical Hospital, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
2 Department of Dermatology and Venenerology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
3 Center for Pediatric, Adolescent Gynecology and Sexology Division of Gynecology, Department of Perinatology and Gynecology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-758 Poznan, Poland
4 Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski University in Warsaw, 01-938 Warszawa, Poland
5 Allergic and Occupational Skin Diseases Unit, Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Poznań, 60-355 Poznan, Poland
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16992; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416992 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 9203
Abstract
Tertiary syphilis is a large diagnostic challenge. It is rarely the case that it affects the skin, bone tissue and the eyes at the same time. The presented case shows that extensive symptomatology of syphilis poses a challenge in making a proper diagnosis [...] Read more.
Tertiary syphilis is a large diagnostic challenge. It is rarely the case that it affects the skin, bone tissue and the eyes at the same time. The presented case shows that extensive symptomatology of syphilis poses a challenge in making a proper diagnosis in patients whose history does not suspect STDs. The study aims to present the case of a young woman hospitalized with a suspected autoimmune disease, diagnosed with symptomatic late syphilis with involvement of the skin, bones and eyes. Full article
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14 pages, 972 KiB  
Article
Do Homicide Perpetrators Have Higher Rates of Delayed-Suicide Than the Other Offenders? Data from a Sample of the Inmate Population in Italy
by Silvia Raddi 1, Francesca Baralla 2,*, Alberto D’Argenio 3, Simona Traverso 4, Marco Sarchiapone 5 and Marco Marchetti 5
1 Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
2 Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Education—SUSeF, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
3 Department of Neuroscience, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
4 Department of Medical Science, Chirurgical and Neuroscience, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
5 Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16991; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416991 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2196
Abstract
Homicide-suicide can be defined as homicide followed by the suicide of the perpetrator shortly afterward. In the so-called “homicide-delayed suicide”, homicide and suicide occur but within a wide and not strictly defined timeframe. This study analyzes data concerning the suicide of 667 inmates [...] Read more.
Homicide-suicide can be defined as homicide followed by the suicide of the perpetrator shortly afterward. In the so-called “homicide-delayed suicide”, homicide and suicide occur but within a wide and not strictly defined timeframe. This study analyzes data concerning the suicide of 667 inmates in Italy between 2002 and 2015, considering homicide perpetrators compared to all offenders. The analyses revealed that inmates who had committed homicide were more likely to commit suicide (71% versus 45%; χ2 = 10.952, p = 0.001) and the odds of suicide increase concerning 1.58 times among homicide perpetrators. The time-to-suicide interval after homicide ranges between 0 to 9.125 days (mean = 1.687,9; SD = 2.303,1). Moreover, the intimate-homicide offenders who committed suicide had a significantly shorter survival time after the offense than did the other non-intimate offenders who died by suicide (t test, t = −3.56, df = 90, p = 0.001). The link between homicide and higher suicide risk in homicide perpetrators should be highlighted because of all the homicide offenders passing through the criminal justice system. Superior knowledge about the path of homicide-delayed suicide will be of particular use to professionals in evaluating and treating homicide inmates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Forensic Pathology: Reviews, Case Reports, Rare Diseases, and Experimental Research)
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18 pages, 426 KiB  
Article
Does Online Implementation Make a Difference in the Effects of a Mental Health Curriculum at Schools?
by Margarida Frade dos Santos 1,*, Celeste Simões 1,2, Anabela Caetano Santos 1,2, Paula Lebre 1,3 and Ilaria Grazzani 4
1 Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, 1495-751 Lisbon, Portugal
2 Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
3 Instituto de Etnomusicologia INET-MD, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, 1495-751 Lisbon, Portugal
4 Department of Human Science for Education “R. Massa”, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20126 Milan, Italy
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16990; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416990 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2752
Abstract
COVID-19 changed and challenged education, with schools obliged to adapt to online settings. This study aims to evaluate the impact of a mental health curriculum implemented at schools, considering the implementation settings: online, onsite, and mixed (online and onsite). From kindergarten to high [...] Read more.
COVID-19 changed and challenged education, with schools obliged to adapt to online settings. This study aims to evaluate the impact of a mental health curriculum implemented at schools, considering the implementation settings: online, onsite, and mixed (online and onsite). From kindergarten to high school, 933 students were evaluated by teachers regarding their social and emotional learning, strengths and difficulties, and academic outcomesin two measuring times: pre- and post-test. A qualitative analysis of teachers’ adaptations to the online implementation was also conducted. Results revealed a positive impact with both mixed and onsite implementation. However, the mixed format demonstrated significant positive changes between the pre—and post-test, namely in relationship skills, responsible decision-making, internalized problems, and academic achievement. The mixed format with few online activities appears to have a more positive impact on students. Nevertheless, implementing social and emotional skills (SES) activities exclusively online seems to positively affect some SES domains more than onsite and mixed formats. Teachers used synchronous (e.g., digital platforms) and asynchronous (e.g., extra resources) adaptations for the implementation. This study shows that implementing mental health programs at schools, in this case, PROMEHS, is beneficial for students, even amidst the pandemic, and regardless of the implementation settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Mental Health: Innovative Technology and Service)
14 pages, 1755 KiB  
Article
RGB-Depth Camera-Based Assessment of Motor Capacity: Normative Data for Six Standardized Motor Tasks
by Hanna Marie Röhling 1,2,3,4,*, Karen Otte 1,2,3,4, Sophia Rekers 5,6, Carsten Finke 5,6, Rebekka Rust 1,2,3,7, Eva-Maria Dorsch 1,2,3,5, Behnoush Behnia 8, Friedemann Paul 1,2,3,5,7 and Tanja Schmitz-Hübsch 1,2,3,7,*
1 Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13125 Berlin, Germany
2 Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 13125 Berlin, Germany
3 Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125 Berlin, Germany
4 Motognosis GmbH, 10119 Berlin, Germany
5 Department of Neurology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
6 Berlin School of Mind and Brain, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
7 NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
8 Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, 12203 Berlin, Germany
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16989; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416989 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2124
Abstract
Background: Instrumental motion analysis constitutes a promising development in the assessment of motor function in clinical populations affected by movement disorders. To foster implementation and facilitate interpretation of respective outcomes, we aimed to establish normative data of healthy subjects for a markerless RGB-Depth [...] Read more.
Background: Instrumental motion analysis constitutes a promising development in the assessment of motor function in clinical populations affected by movement disorders. To foster implementation and facilitate interpretation of respective outcomes, we aimed to establish normative data of healthy subjects for a markerless RGB-Depth camera-based motion analysis system and to illustrate their use. Methods: We recorded 133 healthy adults (56% female) aged 20 to 60 years with an RGB-Depth camera-based motion analysis system. Forty-three spatiotemporal parameters were extracted from six short, standardized motor tasks—including three gait tasks, stepping in place, standing-up and sitting down, and a postural control task. Associations with confounding factors, height, weight, age, and sex were modelled using a predictive linear regression approach. A z-score normalization approach was provided to improve usability of the data. Results: We reported descriptive statistics for each spatiotemporal parameter (mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, quartiles). Robust confounding associations emerged for step length and step width in comfortable speed gait only. Accessible normative data usage was lastly exemplified with recordings from one randomly selected individual with multiple sclerosis. Conclusion: We provided normative data for an RGB depth camera-based motion analysis system covering broad aspects of motor capacity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neuromuscular Control of Human Movement)
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10 pages, 1560 KiB  
Article
Perception and Knowledge of Dental Ergonomics among Romanian Dental Students
by Ioana Cristina Talpos-Niculescu 1,†, Andrei Zoltan Farkas 2,*,†, Diana Lungeanu 3,4, Veronica Argeşanu 2, Mirella Dorina Anghel 1 and Riham Nagib 5
1 Ergonomics Department, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
2 Mechatronics Department, Polytechnic University, 300222 Timisoara, Romania
3 Center for Modeling Biological Systems and Data Analysis, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
4 Department of Functional Sciences, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
5 Orthodontic Research Center “ORTHO-CENTER”, Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
† These authors contributed equally to this work.
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16988; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416988 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2790
Abstract
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among leading factors for early retirement of dental practitioners while the application of ergonomic principles is often overlooked during dental education. The article aims to assess the need for dental ergonomics modules as an integrated part of the dental [...] Read more.
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among leading factors for early retirement of dental practitioners while the application of ergonomic principles is often overlooked during dental education. The article aims to assess the need for dental ergonomics modules as an integrated part of the dental school curriculum and to quantify the significance and role of ergonomics in reducing musculoskeletal stress generated while undergoing dental training. The study design consisted of a three-part original close-ended multiple-choice questionnaire carried out among 75 sixth year students from “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timişoara, Romania. Questions focused on the basic knowledge of theoretical ergonomics, the ISO 11226 standard and means of improvement in undergraduate ergonomics training. Most students had an average level of knowledge regarding dental ergonomic principles. Data analysis showed that 62.16% agree that the information received in the second-year dental ergonomics course was helpful in regard to time organization. A high percentage (86%) also understood the correct positioning of the patient while performing dental procedures. Although implementation of ergonomic principles in the early dental training years has a high influence in the prevention of MSDs, students do not fully understand the impact this subject has on their future careers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Health: Safety Management, Safety Human Factors and Ergonomics)
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13 pages, 2542 KiB  
Article
Effects of Sulfide Input on Arsenate Bioreduction and Its Reduction Product Formation in Sulfidic Groundwater
by Yang Yang 1, Xi Xie 2, Mengna Chen 1, Zuoming Xie 1,3,* and Jia Wang 4
1 Hubei Key Laboratory of Yangtze Catchment Environmental Aquatic Science, School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China
2 School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832003, China
3 State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China
4 Changjiang River Scientific Research Institute, Wuhan 430014, China
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16987; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416987 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1917
Abstract
Microbes have important impacts on the mobilization of arsenic in groundwater. To study the effects of sulfide on As(V) bioreduction in sulfidic groundwater, Citrobacter sp. JH012-1 isolated from sediments in the Jianghan Plain was used in a microcosm experiment. The results showed that [...] Read more.
Microbes have important impacts on the mobilization of arsenic in groundwater. To study the effects of sulfide on As(V) bioreduction in sulfidic groundwater, Citrobacter sp. JH012-1 isolated from sediments in the Jianghan Plain was used in a microcosm experiment. The results showed that sulfide significantly enhanced As(V) bioreduction as an additional electron donor. The reduction rates of As(V) were 21.8%, 34.5%, 73.6% and 85.9% under 0, 15, 75 and 150 µM sulfide inputting, respectively. The main products of As(V) bioreduction were thioarsenite and orpiment and the concentration of thioarsenite reached to 5.5 and 7.1 µM in the solution with the initial 75 and 150 µM sulfide, respectively. However, under 0 and 15 µM sulfide inputting, the dominant product was arsenite with no thioarsenite accumulation. The decrease in pH enhanced the bioreduction of As(V) and promoted the formation of thioarsenite and orpiment. In addition, the percentage of thioarsenite in total arsenic decreased with the decrease in the ratio of sulfur to arsenic, indicating that the formation of thioarsenite was limited by the concentration of initial sulfide. Therefore, the presence of sulfide had a significant effect on the transformation of arsenic in groundwater. This study provides new insights into the bioreduction of As(V) and the formation of thioarsenite in sulfidic groundwater. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecotoxicological Effects and Risk Assessment of Pollutants)
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11 pages, 382 KiB  
Commentary
A Call for Action on Chronic Respiratory Diseases within Physical Activity Policies, Guidelines and Action Plans: Let’s Move!
by Mark W. Orme 1,2,*, Akila R. Jayamaha 1,3, Lais Santin 4, Sally J. Singh 1,2 and Fabio Pitta 4
1 Department of Respiratory Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
2 Centre for Exercise and Rehabilitation Science, NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre-Respiratory, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester LE3 9QP, UK
3 Department of Research and Development, Faculty of Nursing, KAATSU International University, Battaramulla 10120, Sri Lanka
4 Laboratory of Research in Respiratory Physiotherapy, Health Sciences Center, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina 86057-970, Brazil
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16986; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416986 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2463
Abstract
Global policy documents for the promotion of physical activity (PA) play an important role in the measurement, evaluation, and monitoring of population PA levels. The World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines include, for the first time, recommendations for specific populations, including individuals living with [...] Read more.
Global policy documents for the promotion of physical activity (PA) play an important role in the measurement, evaluation, and monitoring of population PA levels. The World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines include, for the first time, recommendations for specific populations, including individuals living with a range of non-communicable diseases. Of note, is the absence of any chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) within the recommendations. Globally, CRDs are highly prevalent, are attributable to significant individual and societal burdens, and are characterised by low PA. As a community, there is a need to come together to understand how to increase CRD representation within global PA policy documents, including where the evidence gaps are and how we can align with PA research in other contexts. In this commentary, the potential for synergy between evidence into the relationships between PA in CRDs globally and the relevance to current policies, guidelines and action plans on population levels of PA are discussed. Furthermore, actions and considerations for future research, including the need to harmonize and promote PA assessment (particularly in low- and middle-income countries) and encompass the synergistic influences of PA, sedentary behaviour and sleep on health outcomes in CRD populations are presented. Full article
12 pages, 2041 KiB  
Article
Epidemiology and Management of Proximal Femoral Fractures in Italy between 2001 and 2016 in Older Adults: Analysis of the National Discharge Registry
by Umile Giuseppe Longo 1,2,†, Marco Viganò 3,†, Laura de Girolamo 3,*, Giuseppe Banfi 3, Giuseppe Salvatore 1,2 and Vincenzo Denaro 1,2
1 Research Unit of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy
2 Research Unit of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Rome, Italy
3 IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Via Riccardo Galeazzi 4, 20161 Milano, Italy
† These authors contributed equally to this work.
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16985; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416985 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2309
Abstract
This study aims to determine the annual incidence of proximal femoral fractures in Italy in the period between 2001 and 2016 among older adults, and to describe the trends in the clinical management of these cases. Data were retrieved from the National Hospital [...] Read more.
This study aims to determine the annual incidence of proximal femoral fractures in Italy in the period between 2001 and 2016 among older adults, and to describe the trends in the clinical management of these cases. Data were retrieved from the National Hospital Discharge records issued by the Italian Ministry of Health and from the Italian Institute for Statistics. The number of hospitalizations increased between 2001 and 2016, while the age-adjusted yearly incidence decreased from 832.2 per 100,000 individuals to 706.2. The median age was 83 years (IQR 78–88) with a large majority of females (76.6%). The type of fracture varied with age in female subjects, with older women more frequently reporting pertrochanteric fractures. Therapeutic strategies for the different types of fracture depended on patients’ age. During the study years, improvements in fracture classification and management strategies were observed, with a clear decreasing trend for non-operative solutions. In conclusion, the number of proximal femur fractures in older adults is growing, even if at a lower rate compared to population aging. The Italian surgical practice changed during the study period towards the implementation of the most recent guidelines. Full article
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10 pages, 459 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Electrical-Stimulation-Induced Emotion on Time Perception: A Time-Reproduction Task
by Chunni Zhao 1,* and Qing Zeng 2,*
1 School of Marxism, Foshan University, Foshan 528011, China
2 School of Marxism, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16984; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416984 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2202
Abstract
Duration cognition refers to an individual’s cognition for the duration of a given stimulus. Previous studies have explored the effect of emotions on duration perception; however, the results remain controversial. To explore the characteristics of college students’ time perception under electrical stimulation, this [...] Read more.
Duration cognition refers to an individual’s cognition for the duration of a given stimulus. Previous studies have explored the effect of emotions on duration perception; however, the results remain controversial. To explore the characteristics of college students’ time perception under electrical stimulation, this study used a time-reproduction task and a within-subject design with electrical-stimulation conditions and target duration as independent variables. Additionally, this study used the average temporal reproduction and the reproduction coefficient of variation as dependent variables; the subjective arousal degree, value, and electrical activity under electric stimulation were recorded simultaneously. The results indicated a significant main effect of electrical stimulation. Compared to non-electrical stimulation, the average temporal reproduction of participants under electrical stimulation was significantly shorter. Additionally, the interaction between electrical stimulation and target duration was significant. Furthermore, with the increase in the target duration, the shortening degree of the average temporal reproduction under the electrical stimulation increased significantly. Additionally, the participants’ subjective arousal with electrical stimulation was higher than that without an electrical shock, and the valence with electrical stimulation was lower than that without electrical stimulation. These results suggest that the emotions induced by electrical stimulation increase the internal-clock speed, which leads to the relative overestimation of time perception. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Individual Differences and Sustainable Behavior)
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