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Sprint Biomechanics in Fatigue Condition: Group Versus Individual Response
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Food Addiction Problems in College Students
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Innovative Methods Used in Monitoring COVID-19 in Europe: A Multinational Study
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Promoting Environmental Attitudes and Environmental Knowledge with a Mudflat Hiking Tour
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Perception and Knowledge of Portuguese Veterinarians about the Zoonotic Transmission of Helicobacter pylori and Helicobacter suis: The Need for One Health Intervention
Journal Description
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
is an interdisciplinary, peer-reviewed, open access journal published semimonthly online by MDPI. It covers Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Public Health, Environmental Health, Occupational Hygiene, Health Economic and Global Health Research, etc. The International Society Doctors for the Environment (ISDE) and Italian Society of Environmental Medicine (SIMA) are affiliated with IJERPH and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, PubMed, MEDLINE, PMC, Embase, GEOBASE, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: CiteScore - Q1 (Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 20.1 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.8 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2022).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Testimonials: See what our editors and authors say about IJERPH.
- Sections: published in 38 topical sections.
- Companion journals for IJERPH include: Dermatopathology, Sexes, Disabilities, Trauma Care, Adolescents, Nursing Reports, Journal of Ageing and Longevity, and Air.
Latest Articles
Salivary Adiponectin and Albumin Levels on the Gingival Conditions of Patients Undergoing Bariatric Surgery: A Cohort Study
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5261; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075261 (registering DOI) - 24 Mar 2023
Abstract
This study analyzed the salivary proteomics, adiponectin and albumin, related to weight loss and periodontitis in patients undergoing bariatric surgery. This study included fourteen patients with morbid obesity (body mass index, BMI > 40 kg/m2) who underwent bariatric surgery Roux-en-Y gastric
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This study analyzed the salivary proteomics, adiponectin and albumin, related to weight loss and periodontitis in patients undergoing bariatric surgery. This study included fourteen patients with morbid obesity (body mass index, BMI > 40 kg/m2) who underwent bariatric surgery Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) in System Health Public in Brazil. Data on demographic and anthropometric measures were extracted from medical records preoperatively and 6 and 12 months post-surgery. The variables assessed were: probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), bleeding on probing (BOP), and stimulated whole-mouth saliva. In this study, saliva samples were analyzed by electrophoresis and immunoblotting. The ELISA kit was used to measure the MMP8 levels to determine potential markers for obesity. Adiponectin and albumin levels were also evaluated. Weight loss was associated with significant changes in patients’ periodontal clinical data. Although 7 out of 10 periodontal patients showed an increase in salivary adiponectin levels after root planning treatment, when analyzed by Western blotting, the increase was not statistically significant (21.1 ± 4.8 to 26.3 ± 9.4 arbitrary units, p > 0.99). There was no correlation between albumin levels and salivary adiponectin pre-surgery, nor 6 months or 12 months after surgery. Weight loss was not improved by low-grade inflammation in bariatric patients, since albumin levels were similar between periods. Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease that is modulated by several factors, among which adiponectin plays an important role for the treatment of periodontal disease.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Global Health and the Trigger between Obesity, COVID-19 and Oral Health: Risk and Challenges)
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Open AccessArticle
Influence of Provider and Leader Perspectives about Concurrent Tobacco-Use Care during Substance-Use Treatment on Their Tobacco Intervention Provision with Clients: A Mixed-Methods Study
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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5260; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075260 (registering DOI) - 24 Mar 2023
Abstract
People with substance-use disorders have elevated rates of tobacco use compared with the general population, yet rarely receive tobacco-dependence treatment within substance-use treatment settings (SUTS). One barrier to delivering evidence-based interventions in SUTS is providers’ misconception that treating tobacco use and non-nicotine substance
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People with substance-use disorders have elevated rates of tobacco use compared with the general population, yet rarely receive tobacco-dependence treatment within substance-use treatment settings (SUTS). One barrier to delivering evidence-based interventions in SUTS is providers’ misconception that treating tobacco use and non-nicotine substance use concurrently jeopardizes clients’ substance-use recovery, although research indicates that it enhances support for recovery and relapse prevention. A total of 86 treatment providers employed in SUTS (i.e., 9 Federally Qualified Health Centers, 16 Local Mental Health Authorities (LMHAs), 6 substance-use treatment programs in LMHAs, and 55 stand-alone substance-use treatment centers) in Texas, USA, answered survey questions about their (1) thoughts about treating tobacco during substance-use treatment, and (2) delivery of the 5A’s tobacco-use intervention (Ask, Advise, Assess, Assist, Arrange). Twenty-six providers and leaders were interviewed about attitudes toward tobacco-free workplace policies and tobacco dependence and the relative importance of treating tobacco (vs. other substance-use disorders) at their center. Providers who did not believe tobacco use should be addressed as soon as clients begin treatment (i.e., endorsed responses of after 1 year, it depends on the client, or never) had lower odds of Asking clients about their tobacco use (OR = 0.195), Advising clients to quit smoking (OR = 0.176), and Assessing interest in quitting smoking (OR = 0.322). Qualitative results revealed barriers including beliefs that clients need to smoke to relieve the stress of substance-use recovery, are disinterested in quitting, fears that concurrent treatment would jeopardize substance use, and limited resources; additional training and education resources was the key facilitator theme. The results demonstrate a critical need to eliminate barriers to tobacco-treatment provision for clients in SUTS through education to correct misperceptions, specialized training to equip providers with knowledge and skills, and resources to build center capacity. Integrating evidence-based smoking interventions into routine care is key to support the recovery efforts of clients in SUTS.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inequalities and Tobacco Use)
Open AccessArticle
Doctors’ Professional and Personal Reflections: A Qualitative Exploration of Physicians’ Views and Coping during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5259; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075259 (registering DOI) - 24 Mar 2023
Abstract
Numerous studies have examined the risks for anxiety and depression experienced by physicians during the COVID-19 pandemic. Still, qualitative studies investigating physicians’ views, and their discovered strengths, are lacking. Our research fills this gap by exploring professional and personal reflections developed by physicians
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Numerous studies have examined the risks for anxiety and depression experienced by physicians during the COVID-19 pandemic. Still, qualitative studies investigating physicians’ views, and their discovered strengths, are lacking. Our research fills this gap by exploring professional and personal reflections developed by physicians from various specialties during the pandemic. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with physicians practicing in the province of Saskatchewan, Canada, during November 2020–July 2021. Thematic analysis identified core themes and subthemes. Seventeen physicians, including nine males and eight females, from eleven specialties completed the interviews. The pandemic brought to the forefront life’s temporality and a new appreciation for life, work, and each other. Most physicians found strength in values, such as gratitude, solidarity, and faith in human potential, to anchor them professionally and personally. A new need for personal fulfilment and hybrid care emerged. Negative feelings of anger, fear, uncertainty, and frustration were due to overwhelming pressures, while feelings of injustice and betrayal were caused by human or system failures. The physicians’ appreciation for life and family and their faith in humanity and science were the primary coping strategies used to build adaptation and overcome negative emotions. These reflections are summarized, and implications for prevention and resilience are discussed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Interventions to Prevent Anxiety and Depression)
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Salus Platform: A Digital Health Solution Tool for Managing Syphilis Cases in Brazil—A Comparative Analysis
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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5258; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075258 (registering DOI) - 24 Mar 2023
Abstract
(1) Introduction: Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that constitutes a serious public health problem in Brazil and worldwide; (2) Methods: This was a descriptive and exploratory study that sought to analyze and compare the characteristics of Brazilian health systems with a
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(1) Introduction: Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that constitutes a serious public health problem in Brazil and worldwide; (2) Methods: This was a descriptive and exploratory study that sought to analyze and compare the characteristics of Brazilian health systems with a new platform (Salus) developed by the Laboratory of Technological Innovation in Health in the scope of notification and management of disease data, including syphilis. In addition, this analysis aimed to assess whether Salus fully meets the necessary data management fields and can be indicated as a tool to improve health management in the context of syphilis in Brazil. (3) Results: In this study, the Salus functionalities were demonstrated and compared with the current Brazilian systems by discovering the existing gaps in the evaluated systems. The gaps found may explain the delay in meeting demands, the difficulty of making routine therapeutic follow-ups, in addition to interference with the vital purpose of follow-up in the epidemiological surveillance of diseases. As a result, Salus demonstrates functionalities that surpass all others and meet case management demands in a superior way to the systems currently used in the country. (4) Conclusions: The Brazilian health information systems related to the response to syphilis do not fulfill the purpose for which they were developed. Instead, they contribute to the fragmentation of health data and information, delays in diagnosis, incomplete case management, and loss of data due to inconsistencies and inadequate reporting. In addition, they are systems without interconnection, which do not articulate epidemiological surveillance actions with primary health care. All these factors may be obscuring accurate data on syphilis in Brazil, resulting in high and unnecessary public spending and late care for users of the Unified Health System (SUS).
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Improving Healthcare Quality)
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Open AccessArticle
NHANES 2011–2014 Reveals Decreased Cognitive Performance in U.S. Older Adults with Metabolic Syndrome Combinations
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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5257; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075257 - 24 Mar 2023
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A relationship between metabolic syndrome and cognitive impairment has been evidenced across research; however, conflicting results have been observed. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 3179 adults older than 60 from the 2011–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to analyze the
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A relationship between metabolic syndrome and cognitive impairment has been evidenced across research; however, conflicting results have been observed. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 3179 adults older than 60 from the 2011–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to analyze the relationship between metabolic syndrome and cognitive impairment. In our results, we found that adults with abdominal obesity, high triglycerides, and low HDL cholesterol had 4.39 fewer points in the CERAD immediate recall test than adults without any metabolic syndrome factors [Beta = −4.39, SE = 1.32, 17.75 (1.36) vs. 22.14 (0.76)]. In addition, people with this metabolic syndrome combination exhibited 2.39 fewer points in the CERAD delayed recall test than those without metabolic syndrome criteria [Beta = −2.39, SE = 0.46, 4.32 (0.49) vs. 6.71 (0.30)]. It was also found that persons with high blood pressure, hyperglycemia, and low HDL–cholesterol levels reached 4.11 points less in the animal fluency test than people with no factors [Beta = −4.11, SE = 1.55, 12.67 (2.12) vs. 16.79 (1.35)]. These findings suggest that specific metabolic syndrome combinations are essential predictors of cognitive impairment. In this study, metabolic syndrome combinations that included obesity, fasting hyperglycemia, high triglycerides, and low HDL–cholesterol were among the most frequent criteria observed.
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Open AccessArticle
Inequalities in Violent Death across Income Levels among Young Males and Females in Countries of the Americas
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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5256; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075256 - 24 Mar 2023
Abstract
Background: Violent deaths (i.e., those due to road traffic injury, homicide, and suicide) are among the most important causes of premature and preventable mortality in young people. This study aimed at exploring inequalities in violent death across income levels between males and females
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Background: Violent deaths (i.e., those due to road traffic injury, homicide, and suicide) are among the most important causes of premature and preventable mortality in young people. This study aimed at exploring inequalities in violent death across income levels between males and females aged 10 to 24 years from the Americas in 2015, the SDG baseline year. Methods: In a cross-sectional ecological study design, eleven standard summary measures of health inequality were calculated separately for males and females and for each cause of violent death, using age-adjusted mortality rates and average income per capita for 17 countries, which accounted for 87.9% of the target population. Results: Premature mortality due to road traffic injury and homicide showed a pro-poor inequality pattern, whereas premature mortality due to suicide showed a pro-rich inequality pattern. These inequalities were statistically significant (p < 0.001), particularly concentrated among young males, and dominated by homicide. The ample array of summary measures of health inequality tended to generate convergent results. Conclusions: Significant inequalities in violent death among young people seems to be in place across countries of the Americas, and they seem to be socially determined by both income and gender. These findings shed light on the epidemiology of violent death in young people and can inform priorities for regional public health action. However, further investigation is needed to confirm inequality patterns and to explore underlying mechanisms, age- and sex-specific vulnerabilities, and gender-based drivers of such inequalities.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Measuring Inequalities in Health: Innovative Approaches and Applications)
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The Switch to Online Learning during the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Interplay between Personality and Mental Health on University Students
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5255; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075255 (registering DOI) - 24 Mar 2023
Abstract
The switching from traditional to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic was challenging for students, determining an increase in physical and mental health problems. The current paper applied a two-step cluster analysis in a large sample of n = 1028 university students (Mage
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The switching from traditional to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic was challenging for students, determining an increase in physical and mental health problems. The current paper applied a two-step cluster analysis in a large sample of n = 1028 university students (Mage = 21.10 years, SD = 2.45 years; range: 18–30 years; 78.4% females). Participants responded to an online survey exploring neuroticism, trait/state anxiety, general self-efficacy, academic motivation, fear of COVID-19, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on physical and mental health, and the help requests. Results showed two significant clusters of students having a Maladaptive Academic Profile (n = 456; 44.4%) or an Adaptive Academic Profile (n = 572; 55.6%). Significant differences were found between the two clusters, where students belonging to the Maladaptive Academic Profile reported higher levels of neuroticism, higher dispositional and situational anxiety, and fear of COVID-19, and lower self-efficacy and academic motivation than students of the Adaptive Academic Profile cluster. In addition, more physical or mental health problems and help requests, mainly to partners during the COVID-19 pandemic, were found in the Maladaptive Academic Profile cluster compared to the Adaptive Academic Profile. Finally, the practical implications of the study’s results in implementing university counseling services as protective measures to contrast psychological distress in the long-term COVID-19 pandemic are discussed.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emotional Well-Being and Coping Strategies during the COVID-19 Crisis)
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National and Regional Rates of Chronic Diseases and All-Cause Mortality in Saudi Arabia—Analysis of the 2018 Household Health Survey Data
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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5254; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075254 - 24 Mar 2023
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The disease burden and mortality were estimated in Saudi Arabia between 2010 and 2017 but were unknown in 2018. This study aims to assess the 2018 national and regional rates of chronic diseases and all-cause mortality among the total and Saudi populations. In
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The disease burden and mortality were estimated in Saudi Arabia between 2010 and 2017 but were unknown in 2018. This study aims to assess the 2018 national and regional rates of chronic diseases and all-cause mortality among the total and Saudi populations. In this descriptive cross-sectional study, we obtained data from 24,012 households from the 2018 household health survey. We included doctor-diagnosed chronic conditions such as diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension (HTN), cardiovascular diseases (CAD), and cancer (CN). A secondary analysis was performed by the total and Saudi populations. Both citizens and residents comprised the total population. Makkah and Al-Medina had greater rates among the total population; however, Al-Baha and Ha’il had high rates of chronic diseases and related mortality in the Saudi population. Age-adjusted mortality rates were 286 per 100,000 population-year. The age-adjusted mortality rate among those aged 65 and above was 3428 per 100,000 population in the same age group. Men had a rate of 1779 per 100,000 men, which was higher than the rate of 1649 for women. In 2018, most citizens in Ha’il had DM, most Al-Baha had HTN and CAD, and most Al-Qassim had CN. People aged 65 and older had the highest death rate.
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Open AccessArticle
Ultrastructural Alterations of the Glomerular Filtration Barrier in Fish Experimentally Exposed to Perfluorooctanoic Acid
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5253; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075253 - 24 Mar 2023
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Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances can be referred to as the most critical group of contaminants of emerging concern. They can accumulate in high concentration in the kidney and are known to potentially affect its function. Nonetheless, there is a lack of knowledge about
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Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances can be referred to as the most critical group of contaminants of emerging concern. They can accumulate in high concentration in the kidney and are known to potentially affect its function. Nonetheless, there is a lack of knowledge about their morphopathological effect on the glomerular filtration barrier. Since previous research suggests perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) induces glomerular protein leakage, the glomerular filtration barrier of 30 carp from the same parental stock (10 unexposed; 10 exposed to 200 ng L−1 of PFOA; and 10 exposed to 2 mg L−1 of PFOA for 56 days) was screened for possible PFOA-induced ultrastructural lesions in order to shed light on the related pathophysiology. PFOA exposure affected the glomerular filtration barrier in carp experimentally exposed to 2 mg L−1, showing ultrastructural alterations compatible with glomerulonephrosis: podocyte effacement, reduction of filtration slits and filtration slit diaphragms, basement membrane disarrangement, and occurrence of proteinaceous material in the urinary space. The results of the present research confirm the glomerular origin of the PFOA-induced protein leakage and can contribute to the mechanistic comprehension of PFOA’s impact on renal function and to the assessment of the exposure effect of environmental pollutants on animals and humans, according to the One Health approach.
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Open AccessSystematic Review
The Impact of Mode of Birth, and Episiotomy, on Postpartum Sexual Function in the Medium- and Longer-Term: An Integrative Systematic Review
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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5252; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075252 - 24 Mar 2023
Abstract
(1) Background: Sexual function can be affected up to and beyond 18 months postpartum, with some studies suggesting that spontaneous vaginal birth results in less sexual dysfunction. This review examined the impact of mode of birth on sexual function in the medium- (≥6
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(1) Background: Sexual function can be affected up to and beyond 18 months postpartum, with some studies suggesting that spontaneous vaginal birth results in less sexual dysfunction. This review examined the impact of mode of birth on sexual function in the medium- (≥6 months and <12 months postpartum) and longer-term (≥12 months postpartum). (2) Methods: Literature published after January 2000 were identified in PubMed, Embase and CINAHL. Studies that compared at least two modes of birth and used valid sexual function measures were included. Systematic reviews, unpublished articles, protocols and articles not written in English were excluded. Quality was assessed using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale. (3) Results: In the medium-term, assisted vaginal birth and vaginal birth with episiotomy were associated with worse sexual function, compared to caesarean section. In the longer-term, assisted vaginal birth was associated with worse sexual function, compared with spontaneous vaginal birth and caesarean section; and planned caesarean section was associated with worse sexual function in several domains, compared to spontaneous vaginal birth. (4) Conclusions: Sexual function, in the medium- and longer-term, can be affected by mode of birth. Women should be encouraged to seek support should their sexual function be affected after birth.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Women's Health)
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Characteristics of Fatal, Pedestrian-Involved, Motor Vehicle Crashes in West Virginia: A Cross-Sectional and Spatial Analysis
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5251; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075251 - 24 Mar 2023
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Fatal, pedestrian-involved, motor vehicle collisions are increasing in the United States yet remain lower in rural states such as West Virginia. This study’s purpose was to investigate the overall risk factors of pedestrian fatalities by rurality and sex in West Virginia. Data were
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Fatal, pedestrian-involved, motor vehicle collisions are increasing in the United States yet remain lower in rural states such as West Virginia. This study’s purpose was to investigate the overall risk factors of pedestrian fatalities by rurality and sex in West Virginia. Data were obtained from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System. The fatality had to occur within West Virginia between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2019. Risk factors of rural vs. urban and male vs. female crashes were determined using multivariable logistic regression models. Clustering of crash locations was analyzed using kernel density estimation and Ripley’s K. Among the 254 fatalities, most victims were male (70%). Most crashes occurred at night (76%), on highways (73%), on level (71%), non-curved (84%), dry (82%) roads during fair weather conditions (82%). Nearly 34% of the victims tested positive for alcohol. Men were 2.5 times as likely to be hit in a rural area (OR = 2.5; 95% CI 1.2, 5.4), on curved roads, and 57% less likely (OR = 0.43; 95% CI 0.2, 0.9) to test positive for drugs compared to women. Crash characteristics, including location, were similar between the sexes. As many risk factors were modifiable behaviors, public health interventions to ensure pedestrian safety may be necessary.
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Open AccessArticle
The Importance of a Distance between the Lines Encircling Pulmonary Veins in Atrial Fibrillation Ablation on First-Pass Isolation Ratio and Clinical Outcomes
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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5250; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075250 - 24 Mar 2023
Abstract
Introduction: How wide the encircling line is made may influence the outcomes of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). In the present study we hypothesised that the distance between the lines encircling the pulmonary veins may correspond with the extent of wide antral circumferential ablation
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Introduction: How wide the encircling line is made may influence the outcomes of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). In the present study we hypothesised that the distance between the lines encircling the pulmonary veins may correspond with the extent of wide antral circumferential ablation (WACA). The aim of the study was to assess the impact of the distance and the area between the lines on the posterior wall of the left atrium on first-pass isolation rate and 12-month freedom from atrial arrhythmia in patients undergoing PVI ablation. Methods and results: One hundred sixteen patients underwent circumferential ablation index (AI)-guided PVI. The distance between the encircling ablation lines was measured off-line between the uppermost points (right and left) and the lowest points and as the area between the encircling lines on the posterior wall. The first-pass isolation rate and 12-month freedom from atrial arrhythmia were 59% and 73%, respectively. Distance between the encircling lines measured linearly or as the area of the posterior wall, assessed as direct values or indexed to left atrial dimensions, did not differ between patients with and without first-pass isolation or between patients with and without recurrences of atrial arrhythmia. Conclusions: The distance between the ablation lines did not influence the rate of first-pass isolation and arrhythmia recurrence in the long-term follow-up after PVI procedures incorporating the ablation index protocol.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Cardiovascular Disease Research and Treatment Strategies)
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Attachment in Couples Coping with Cancer: Associations with Observed Communication and Long-Term Health
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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5249; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075249 - 24 Mar 2023
Abstract
Cancer poses a threat to well-being that may activate the attachment system and influence interpersonal dynamics, such as communication. Research indicates that avoidant and anxious attachment, as well as communication, are independently associated with poorer psychosocial well-being, yet studies examining links between attachment,
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Cancer poses a threat to well-being that may activate the attachment system and influence interpersonal dynamics, such as communication. Research indicates that avoidant and anxious attachment, as well as communication, are independently associated with poorer psychosocial well-being, yet studies examining links between attachment, communication, and long-term physical well-being are lacking. We examined (a) associations between patient and partner attachment (measured with the adult attachment scale [AAS-Revised]) and observed communication (across affect [the Relational Affective Topography System (RATS) coding system] and behavior [the Asymmetric Behavior Coding System (ABCS) coding system]) and (b) the extent to which attachment and communication independently predicted long-term physical well-being (measured by the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General Population [FACT-GP]). Participants were 134 couples [mean age 53.9 (SD = 13.4), 86.2% Caucasian, 66% of patients, 36% of partners female]. Patient participants had either breast, colorectal, or lung cancer. Couples individually completed self-report measures of attachment (baseline) and physical well-being (baseline and 4, 8, and 12 months later). At baseline, couples engaged in a 15 min videorecorded cancer-related conversation coded for communication behavior and affective expression. Patients and partners with higher anxious and avoidant attachment exhibited more negative affect and negative approach behaviors. A greater avoidant attachment was associated with less positive affective expression. Attachment insecurity and affective expression were prospectively linked with physical well-being. Findings indicate that attachment is associated with overt communication behaviors and that insecure attachment and affective expression may be risk factors for poorer health outcomes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Close Relationships and Health)
Open AccessArticle
Lessons (Not) Learned: Chicago Death Inequities during the 1918 Influenza and COVID-19 Pandemics
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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5248; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075248 - 23 Mar 2023
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During historical and contemporary crises in the U.S., Blacks and other marginalized groups experience an increased risk for adverse health, social, and economic outcomes. These outcomes are driven by structural factors, such as poverty, racial residential segregation, and racial discrimination. These factors affect
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During historical and contemporary crises in the U.S., Blacks and other marginalized groups experience an increased risk for adverse health, social, and economic outcomes. These outcomes are driven by structural factors, such as poverty, racial residential segregation, and racial discrimination. These factors affect communities’ exposure to risk and ability to recover from disasters, such as pandemics. This study examines whether areas where descendants of enslaved Africans and other Blacks lived in Chicago were vulnerable to excess death during the 1918 influenza pandemic and whether these disparities persisted in the same areas during the COVID-19 pandemic. To examine disparities, demographic data and influenza and pneumonia deaths were digitized from historic weekly paper maps from the week ending on 5 October 1918 to the week ending on 16 November 1918. Census tracts were labeled predominantly Black or white if the population threshold for the group in a census tract was 40% or higher for only one group. Historic neighborhood boundaries were used to aggregate census tract data. The 1918 spatial distribution of influenza and pneumonia mortality rates and cases in Chicago was then compared to the spatial distribution of COVID-19 mortality rates and cases using publicly available datasets. The results show that during the 1918 pandemic, mortality rates in white, immigrant and Black neighborhoods near industrial areas were highest. Pneumonia mortality rates in both Black and immigrant white neighborhoods near industrial areas were approximately double the rates of neighborhoods with predominantly US-born whites. Pneumonia mortality in Black and immigrant white neighborhoods, far away from industrial areas, was also higher (40% more) than in US-born white neighborhoods. Around 100 years later, COVID-19 mortality was high in areas with high concentrations of Blacks based on zip code analysis, even though the proportion of the Black population with COVID was similar or lower than other racial and immigrant groups. These findings highlight the continued cost of racial disparities in American society in the form of avoidable high rates of Black death during pandemics.
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Open AccessArticle
Using Relational Community Engagement within the Digital Health Intervention (DHI) to Improve Access and Retention among People Living with HIV (PLWH): Findings from a Mixed-Method Study in Cambodia
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5247; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075247 - 23 Mar 2023
Abstract
We examined the impact of COVID-19-associated restrictive measures on the HIV care system in Cambodia through a complexity lens and aimed to use the findings to integrate social and relational processes into the design and implementation of proposed solutions that could support program
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We examined the impact of COVID-19-associated restrictive measures on the HIV care system in Cambodia through a complexity lens and aimed to use the findings to integrate social and relational processes into the design and implementation of proposed solutions that could support program outcomes during these times. Through a mixed-method design, we generated data on the strength of connection and quality of relationships between stakeholders and how this, in turn, provided a more holistic understanding of the challenges experienced during a pandemic. We interviewed 43 HIV care providers and 13 patients from eight HIV clinics and 13 policy-level stakeholders from relevant institutions involved in HIV care from April to May 2021. We identified several challenges, as well as an opportunity to improve HIV care access that built upon a strong foundation of trust between the HIV care providers and receivers in Cambodia. Trusting relationships between providers and patients provided the basis for intervention development aiming to improve the care experience and patients’ engagement in care. Iterative research processes could better inform the intervention, and communication resources provided through relational skills training are key to their application and sustainability.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Eliminating HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections)
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Smartphone Apps for Domestic Violence Prevention: A Systematic Review
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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5246; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075246 - 23 Mar 2023
Abstract
Smartphone applications or apps are increasingly being produced to help with protection against the risk of domestic violence. There is a need to formally evaluate their features. Objective: This study systematically reviewed app-based interventions for domestic violence prevention, which will be helpful for
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Smartphone applications or apps are increasingly being produced to help with protection against the risk of domestic violence. There is a need to formally evaluate their features. Objective: This study systematically reviewed app-based interventions for domestic violence prevention, which will be helpful for app developers. Methods: We overviewed all apps concerning domestic violence awareness and prevention without language restrictions, collating information about features and limitations. We conducted searches in Google, the Google Play Store, and the App Store (iOS) covering a 10-year time period (2012–2022). We collected data related to the apps from the developers’ descriptions, peer reviewed research articles, critical reviews in blogs, news articles, and other online sources. Results: The search identified 621 potentially relevant apps of which 136 were selected for review. There were five app categories: emergency assistance (n = 61, 44.9%), avoidance (n = 29, 21.3%), informative (n = 29, 21.3%), legal information (n = 10, 7.4%), and self-assessment (n = 7, 5.1%). Over half the apps (n = 97, 71%) were released in 2020–22. Around a half were from north-east America (n = 63, 46.3%). Where emergency alerts existed, they required triggering by the potential victim. There was no automation. Content analysis showed 20 apps with unique features, including geo-fences, accelerometer-based alert, shake-based alert, functionality under low resources, alert auto-cancellation, anonymous communication, and data encryption. None of the apps deployed artificial intelligence to assist the potential victims. Conclusions: Apps currently have many limitations. Future apps should focus on automation, making better use of artificial intelligence deploying multimedia (voice, video, image capture, text and sentiment analysis), speech recognition, and pitch detection to aid in live analysis of the situation and for accurately generating emergency alerts.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses in Public Health)
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Open AccessArticle
Family Bonds with Pets and Mental Health during COVID-19 in Australia: A Complex Picture
by
, , , , and
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5245; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075245 - 23 Mar 2023
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has drawn attention to the health-promoting features of human-animal relationships, particularly for families with children. Despite this, the World Health Organization’s (1986) Ottawa Charter remains human-centric. Given the reciprocal health impacts of human-animal relationships, this paper aims to (i) describe
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The COVID-19 pandemic has drawn attention to the health-promoting features of human-animal relationships, particularly for families with children. Despite this, the World Health Organization’s (1986) Ottawa Charter remains human-centric. Given the reciprocal health impacts of human-animal relationships, this paper aims to (i) describe perceived pet-related benefits, worries, and family activities; and to (ii) examine differences in perceived benefits, worries, and activities for parents and children with and without clinical mental health symptoms. We recruited 1034 Australian parents with a child < 18 years and a cat or dog via a national online survey between July and October 2020. Most parents reported their pet was helpful for their own (78%) and their child’s mental health (80%). Adjusted logistic regression revealed parents with clinical psychological distress were 2.5 times more likely to be worried about their pet’s care, well-being, and behaviour (OR = 2.56, p < 0.001). Clinically anxious children were almost twice as likely to live in a family who engages frequently in pet-related activities (e.g., cooked treats, taught tricks, OR = 1.82, p < 0.01). Mental health and perceived benefits of having a pet were not strongly associated. Data support re-framing the Ottawa Charter to encompass human-animal relationships, which is an often-neglected aspect of a socioecological approach to health.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue “Moving into the Future”: Reconceiving (WHO) Health Promotion to Encompass Human-Animal Relationships)
Open AccessArticle
Pain and Motor Function in Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1: A Cross-Sectional Study
by
, , , , , , and
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5244; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075244 - 23 Mar 2023
Abstract
Pain is an underestimated finding in myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1). We provide a characterization of pain in terms of functional implications through a multidimensional assessment in patients with DM1, focusing on gender differences. We assessed pain through the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI)
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Pain is an underestimated finding in myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1). We provide a characterization of pain in terms of functional implications through a multidimensional assessment in patients with DM1, focusing on gender differences. We assessed pain through the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) and its indexes (the Severity Index (SI) and the Interference Index (II)), balance/gait (the Tinetti Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA)), functional abilities (the Functional Independence Measure (FIM)), and fatigue (the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS)). We divided our sample into a mild (<4) and a moderate–severe group (≥4) based on BPI indexes. A between-group analysis was performed. We recruited 23 males and 22 females with DM1. A statistically significant difference was found for the FSS and the BPI-SI ≥ 4, and for all outcomes in the BPI-II ≥ 4 (p ≤ 0.003). In the female group, all outcomes except for the FIM were statistically significantly worse (p ≤ 0.004). Dividing our sample into four groups based on gender and the BPI, a statistically significant difference was found for FSS between the two groups with BPI-II ≥ 4 (with worsen score in the female one) (p < 0.002). Pain in DM1 patients is highly reported and gender related, with increased fatigue and poor balance/gait in the female group.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognitive and Motor Function Crosstalk in Motor Control Research)
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Open AccessArticle
Correlation between Dietary Intake of Vitamins and Oral Health Behaviors: A Cross-Sectional Study
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5243; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075243 - 23 Mar 2023
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate whether oral health behaviors were related to the dietary intake of vitamins. In this cross-sectional study, we included respondents of the 2016 national health and nutrition examination survey, and dental diseases from Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. Data on sociodemographic
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This study aimed to investigate whether oral health behaviors were related to the dietary intake of vitamins. In this cross-sectional study, we included respondents of the 2016 national health and nutrition examination survey, and dental diseases from Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, findings of blood tests related to metabolic syndrome, dietary intake, oral health status, and behaviors were collected. Participants were divided into two groups based on their oral health behavior: the yes group (performed interdental cleaning or tongue brushing) and the no group (did not perform the behaviors). The study included 218 participants (male: 107, female: 111) aged 64.5 (range, 22–93) years. There were 133 (61.0%) and 85 (39.0%) participants in the yes and no groups, respectively. The daily intake of vitamins A, B2, B6, E, and K, folic acid, and niacin in the yes group was significantly higher than that in the no group. Oral health behavior correlated with the intake of vitamin B2 (p = 0.029), folic acid (p = 0.006), and vitamin K (p = 0.043) after adjusting for possible confounders. Oral health behavior (interdental cleaning or tongue brushing) correlated with the daily intake of vitamins B2, K, and folic acid.
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(This article belongs to the Section Oral Health)
Open AccessReview
Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: Which Patients Will Benefit from Physiotherapy Exercise Programs? A Narrative Review
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5242; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075242 - 23 Mar 2023
Abstract
Massive irreparable rotator cuff tears can cause significant shoulder pain, disability and reduction in quality of life. Treatment approaches can be operative or non-operative. Operative approaches include reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, arthroscopic debridement, partial rotator cuff repair, subacromial balloon spacers, superior capsule reconstruction,
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Massive irreparable rotator cuff tears can cause significant shoulder pain, disability and reduction in quality of life. Treatment approaches can be operative or non-operative. Operative approaches include reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, arthroscopic debridement, partial rotator cuff repair, subacromial balloon spacers, superior capsule reconstruction, and tendon transfer procedures. Non-operative approaches include physiotherapy exercise programs and corticosteroid injections. There are no randomized controlled trials comparing the different treatment approaches. It is therefore challenging for clinicians to advise patients on what is their best treatment pathway. Physiotherapy exercise programs are less expensive and have lower risks for patients than surgical approaches. However, the success of physiotherapy in patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears is highly variable with published success rates of 32–96%. Several cohort studies have sought to identify if certain factors are predictive of success with physiotherapy. Several biomechanical factors were identified as possibly being related to a successful or unsuccessful outcome following physiotherapy, with complete tear of subscapularis demonstrating the strongest evidence. However, there were no appropriately designed prognostic studies. There has been a strong emphasis on biomechanical factors. Other domains such as psychosocial factors, which are important in similar patient populations, have not been explored. We recommend that further research is needed in this area and should include randomized controlled trials comparing treatment approaches and longitudinal prospective prognostic studies to identify predictors of treatment success.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Physiotherapy)
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