Journal Description
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
is a transdisciplinary, peer-reviewed, open access journal published monthly online by MDPI. It covers Global Health, Healthcare Sciences, Behavioral and Mental Health, Infectious Diseases, Chronic Diseases and Disease Prevention, Exercise and Health Related Quality of Life, Environmental Health and Environmental Sciences. 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 29.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- 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 7 topical sections.
Latest Articles
Evolving Adult ADHD Care: Preparatory Evaluation of a Prototype Digital Service Model Innovation for ADHD Care
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 582; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050582 (registering DOI) - 01 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Given the prevalence of ADHD and the gaps in ADHD care in Australia, this study investigates the critical barriers and driving forces for innovation. It does so by conducting a preparatory evaluation of an ADHD prototype digital service innovation designed to help
[...] Read more.
Background: Given the prevalence of ADHD and the gaps in ADHD care in Australia, this study investigates the critical barriers and driving forces for innovation. It does so by conducting a preparatory evaluation of an ADHD prototype digital service innovation designed to help streamline ADHD care and empower individual self-management. Methods: Semi-structured interviews with ADHD care consumers/participants and practitioners explored their experiences and provided feedback on a mobile self-monitoring app and related service innovations. Interview transcripts were double coded to explore thematic barriers and the enablers for better ADHD care. Results: Fifteen interviews (9 consumers, 6 practitioners) revealed barriers to better ADHD care for consumers (ignorance and prejudice, trust, impatience) and for practitioners (complexity, sustainability). Enablers for consumers included validation/empowerment, privacy, and security frameworks, tailoring, and access. Practitioners highlighted the value of transparency, privacy and security frameworks, streamlined content, connected care between services, and the tailoring of broader metrics. Conclusions: A consumer-centred approach to digital health service innovation, featuring streamlined, private, and secure solutions with enhanced mobile tools proves instrumental in bridging gaps in ADHD care in Australia. These innovations should help to address the gaps in ADHD care in Australia. These innovations should encompass integrated care, targeted treatment outcome data, and additional lifestyle support, whilst recognising the tensions between customised functionalities and streamlined displays.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Mental Health: Changes, Challenges and Success Strategies)
►
Show Figures
Open AccessArticle
Behind the Hospital Ward: In-Hospital Mortality of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients in Indonesia (Analysis of National Health Insurance Claim Sample Data)
by
Ede Surya Darmawan, Vetty Yulianty Permanasari, Latin Vania Nisrina, Dian Kusuma, Syarif Rahman Hasibuan and Nisrina Widyasanti
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 581; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050581 - 01 May 2024
Abstract
The rising global prevalence of diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic disorder, poses significant challenges to healthcare systems worldwide. This study examined in-hospital mortality among patients diagnosed with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) of ICD-10, or Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), in Indonesia, utilizing hospital
[...] Read more.
The rising global prevalence of diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic disorder, poses significant challenges to healthcare systems worldwide. This study examined in-hospital mortality among patients diagnosed with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) of ICD-10, or Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), in Indonesia, utilizing hospital claims data spanning from 2017 to 2022 obtained from the Indonesia Health Social Security Agency or Badan Penyelenggara Jaminan Sosial (BPJS) Kesehatan. The analysis, which included 610,809 hospitalized T2DM patients, revealed an in-hospital mortality rate of 6.6%. Factors contributing to an elevated risk of mortality included advanced age, the presence of comorbidities, and severe complications. Additionally, patients receiving health subsidies and those treated in government hospitals were found to have higher mortality risks. Geographic disparities were observed, highlighting variations in healthcare outcomes across different regions. Notably, the complication of ketoacidosis emerged as the most significant risk factor for in-hospital mortality, with an odds ratio (OR) of 10.86, underscoring the critical need for prompt intervention and thorough management of complications to improve patient outcomes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Health Care and Diabetes)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Diagnosis in Bytes: Comparing the Diagnostic Accuracy of Google and ChatGPT 3.5 as an Educational Support Tool
by
Guilherme R. Guimaraes, Ricardo G. Figueiredo, Caroline Santos Silva, Vanessa Arata, Jean Carlos Z. Contreras, Cristiano M. Gomes, Ricardo B. Tiraboschi and José Bessa Junior
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 580; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050580 - 01 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Adopting advanced digital technologies as diagnostic support tools in healthcare is an unquestionable trend accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, their accuracy in suggesting diagnoses remains controversial and needs to be explored. We aimed to evaluate and compare the diagnostic accuracy of
[...] Read more.
Background: Adopting advanced digital technologies as diagnostic support tools in healthcare is an unquestionable trend accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, their accuracy in suggesting diagnoses remains controversial and needs to be explored. We aimed to evaluate and compare the diagnostic accuracy of two free accessible internet search tools: Google and ChatGPT 3.5. Methods: To assess the effectiveness of both medical platforms, we conducted evaluations using a sample of 60 clinical cases related to urological pathologies. We organized the urological cases into two distinct categories for our analysis: (i) prevalent conditions, which were compiled using the most common symptoms, as outlined by EAU and UpToDate guidelines, and (ii) unusual disorders, identified through case reports published in the ‘Urology Case Reports’ journal from 2022 to 2023. The outcomes were meticulously classified into three categories to determine the accuracy of each platform: “correct diagnosis”, “likely differential diagnosis”, and “incorrect diagnosis”. A group of experts evaluated the responses blindly and randomly. Results: For commonly encountered urological conditions, Google’s accuracy was 53.3%, with an additional 23.3% of its results falling within a plausible range of differential diagnoses, and the remaining outcomes were incorrect. ChatGPT 3.5 outperformed Google with an accuracy of 86.6%, provided a likely differential diagnosis in 13.3% of cases, and made no unsuitable diagnosis. In evaluating unusual disorders, Google failed to deliver any correct diagnoses but proposed a likely differential diagnosis in 20% of cases. ChatGPT 3.5 identified the proper diagnosis in 16.6% of rare cases and offered a reasonable differential diagnosis in half of the cases. Conclusion: ChatGPT 3.5 demonstrated higher diagnostic accuracy than Google in both contexts. The platform showed satisfactory accuracy when diagnosing common cases, yet its performance in identifying rare conditions remains limited.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Artificial Intelligence in Public Health: Current Trends and Future Possibilities)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Spatio-Temporal Variation in the Exceedance of Enterococci in Lake Burley Griffin: An Analysis of 16 Years’ Recreational Water Quality Monitoring Data
by
Ripon Kumar Adhikary, Danswell Starrs, David Wright, Barry Croke, Kathryn Glass and Aparna Lal
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 579; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050579 - 01 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Recreational waterbodies with high levels of faecal indicator bacteria (FIB) pose health risks and are an ongoing challenge for urban-lake managers. Lake Burley Griffin (LBG) in the Australian Capital city of Canberra is a popular site for water-based recreation, but analyses of seasonal
[...] Read more.
Recreational waterbodies with high levels of faecal indicator bacteria (FIB) pose health risks and are an ongoing challenge for urban-lake managers. Lake Burley Griffin (LBG) in the Australian Capital city of Canberra is a popular site for water-based recreation, but analyses of seasonal and long-term patterns in enterococci that exceed alert levels (>200 CFU per 100 mL, leading to site closures) are lacking. This study analysed enterococci concentrations from seven recreational sites from 2001–2021 to examine spatial and temporal patterns in exceedances during the swimming season (October–April), when exposure is highest. The enterococci concentrations varied significantly across sites and in the summer months. The frequency of the exceedances was higher in the 2009–2015 period than in the 2001–2005 and 2015–2021 periods. The odds of alert-level concentrations were greater in November, December, and February compared to October. The odds of exceedance were higher at the Weston Park East site (swimming beach) and lower at the Ferry Terminal and Weston Park West site compared to the East Basin site. This preliminary examination highlights the need for site-specific assessments of environmental and management-related factors that may impact the public health risks of using the lake, such as inflows, turbidity, and climatic conditions. The insights from this study confirm the need for targeted monitoring efforts during high-risk months and at specific sites. The study also advocates for implementing measures to minimise faecal pollution at its sources.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Contingency Management for Dually Diagnosed Inpatients with Psychosis
by
Lise Docx, Marianne Destoop and Geert Dom
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050578 - 01 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Contingency management (CM) is an evidence-based treatment method in substance abuse treatment. However, little is known about its efficacy in dually diagnosed patients with psychosis and in inpatient settings. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy of CM for
[...] Read more.
Contingency management (CM) is an evidence-based treatment method in substance abuse treatment. However, little is known about its efficacy in dually diagnosed patients with psychosis and in inpatient settings. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy of CM for dually diagnosed patients with psychosis in an inpatient setting. Furthermore, we investigate the effect of the nature of the reward used (cash vs. prize) on the efficacy of CM. We made use of an 8-week fish-bowl CM intervention by means of a within-subject reversal design with three treatment phases (baseline—intervention—follow-up). Sixty-seven patients were included in this study, of whom thirty-four completed the protocol. The results show no effect of CM on abstinence nor an interaction with clinical or demographic variables. Cash money is as effective as prizes. Future research should further investigate the effect of psychosis and treatment setting on the efficacy of CM, with special attention for Patient Report Experience and Outcome Measures (PREM/PROM).
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Exploring Secondary School Athletic Trainers’ Perspectives in Managing Mental Health Situations
by
Suhyun Jang, Matthew J. Drescher, Tara A. Armstrong, Elizabeth R. Neil and Lindsey E. Eberman
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 577; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050577 - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Most people believe that student–athletes experience fewer difficulties related to mental health than non-sport participants. However, several studies have shown high depression levels or emotional difficulties in adolescent athletes. Most secondary school students have access to athletic trainers in their schools. Secondary
[...] Read more.
Background: Most people believe that student–athletes experience fewer difficulties related to mental health than non-sport participants. However, several studies have shown high depression levels or emotional difficulties in adolescent athletes. Most secondary school students have access to athletic trainers in their schools. Secondary school athletic trainers (SSATs) are medical professionals who can provide health care for student–athletes, and they could be appropriate supporters in providing mental health management in secondary schools. However, there are no studies that have addressed their preparedness and confidence level to manage potential risk factors and mental health disorders. This study aims to ascertain preparedness and confidence levels from SSATs’ perspectives in handling mental health disorders using a survey based on the mental health management guidelines and consensus statement. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study design. The research team created an online survey questionnaire based on the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) Mental Health Guidelines for Secondary School and Interassociation Recommendation: A Consensus Statement. Utilizing the NATA Research Survey Service, the online survey was emailed to SSATs who self-categorized as secondary school athletic trainers in the NATA membership system. (n = 171, 65% completion rate). SPSS was used to analyze the survey data. Result: This study found that 29.2% of SSATs reported they have policies or guidelines regarding mental health disorders management for minors. The most frequent policy was mandatory reporting in cases in which an individual is being abused or neglected (80.5%). The highest confidence area was aligned with the most frequent policy. The least frequent policy was considering unique stressors and triggers with student–athletes to recognize the potential mechanisms that may cause a mental illness or exacerbate an existing mental illness (58.5%). Even though the least frequent policy was not aligned with the least confidence area, it was the second lowest confidence level. This study identified significant differences between two different employment structures: school-based employment and hospital-based employment structures. Policies were more common in school-based employment than in hospital-based employment structures. Conclusion: This study demonstrated the gap between organizational and individual preparation. The majority of SSATs respondents expressed moderate to high confidence in their ability to manage mental health disorders, despite the lack of mental health policies or procedures in their secondary schools. This study recommends that SSATs create guidelines or procedures in the areas where they are least confident and prepared to offer mental health management for minor student–athletes. They can use the interassociation recommendations and the NATA guidelines for mental health care to close the gap.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research on Mental Health in Sport)
Open AccessArticle
Landscape and Socioeconomic Factors Determine Malaria Incidence in Tropical Forest Countries
by
Allison Bailey and Paula R. Prist
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 576; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050576 - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Deforestation, landscape dynamics, and socioeconomic factors within the tropical Americas, Africa, and Asia may have different impacts on malaria incidence. To evaluate how these drivers affect malaria incidence at the global and regional scale, we collected malaria incidence rates from 2000 to 2019
[...] Read more.
Deforestation, landscape dynamics, and socioeconomic factors within the tropical Americas, Africa, and Asia may have different impacts on malaria incidence. To evaluate how these drivers affect malaria incidence at the global and regional scale, we collected malaria incidence rates from 2000 to 2019 from 67 tropical countries, along with forest loss, land use change types, and socioeconomic elements. LASSO regression, linear mixed effect modeling, and k-fold cross validation were used to create and evaluate the models. Regionality plays a role in the significance of varying risk factors. The Tropical Americas model had the highest coefficient of determination (marginal R2 = 0.369), while the Africa model showed the highest predictive accuracy with only a 17.4% error rate. Strong associations between tree cover loss (β = −4037.73, p < 0.001) and percentage forest area (β = 5373.18, p = 0.012) in Africa, and percent of key biodiversity areas under protection (β = 496.71, p < 0.001; β = 1679.20, p < 0.001) in the tropical Americas and Asia with malaria incidence indicates that malaria risk should be considered during conservation policy development, and recommends that individual approaches to policy and investment be considered when implementing malaria interventions on different spatial scales.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Architectural Layout of Long-Term Care Units: Relationships between Support for Residents’ Well-Being and for Caregivers’ Burnout and Resilience
by
Yifat Rom, Ido Morag, Yuval Palgi and Michal Isaacson
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 575; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050575 - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
With a growing need for long-term care facilities in general, and for specialized dementia units in particular, it is important to ensure that the architectural layouts of such facilities support the well-being of both the residents and the unit caregivers. This study aimed
[...] Read more.
With a growing need for long-term care facilities in general, and for specialized dementia units in particular, it is important to ensure that the architectural layouts of such facilities support the well-being of both the residents and the unit caregivers. This study aimed to investigate correlations between the support provided by the architectural layout of long-term care units for enhancing residents’ well-being and for decreasing unit caregivers’ burnout and increasing their resilience—as layouts may impact each party differently. The Psycho Spatial Evaluation Tool was utilized to assess the support provided by the layouts of seventeen long-term care units (ten regular nursing units and seven specialized dementia units) for the residents’ physical and social well-being (five dimensions); a questionnaire was used to measure the unit caregivers’ burnout and resilience. When analyzing layouts’ support for residents’ physical and social well-being, inconsistencies emerged regarding correlations with caregivers’ burnout and resilience across the two types of long-term care units. Supporting residents’ physical well-being was correlated with increased caregiver resilience in dementia units, and with increased burnout and decreased resilience in regular nursing units. Layouts supporting social well-being showed inconsistent correlations with caregivers’ resilience indexes in dementia units, and with burnout and resilience indexes in regular nursing units. The findings underscore the role of the architectural layout of long-term care units in enhancing residents’ well-being; the results also highlight the possible unintentional yet negative impact of the layout on the caregivers’ burnout and resilience. This study emphasizes the need to identify and rectify design shortcomings as a means of enhancing residents’ well-being, while increasing the unit caregivers’ resilience and decreasing their burnout. These insights should be addressed when developing strategies and interventions for ensuring optimal care environments for all parties involved.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Mental Well-Being of Caregivers: Impacts, Benefits and Advancements)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Surveillance of Bacterial Load and Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria on Surfaces of Public Restrooms
by
Khadega Ibrahim, Maisha Tahsin, Aninda Rahman, Shaikh Mizanoor Rahman and Md Mizanur Rahman
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 574; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050574 - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Public restrooms are often a hub of microbial contamination and the examination of bacterial contamination in these facilities can serve as an important indicator of the transmission of infectious diseases. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of bacterial contamination in public
[...] Read more.
Public restrooms are often a hub of microbial contamination and the examination of bacterial contamination in these facilities can serve as an important indicator of the transmission of infectious diseases. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of bacterial contamination in public restrooms based on the economic class of the building. Samples were collected from various spots in 32 restrooms found in 10 shopping malls, classifying them into two categories: upper-end restrooms and lower-end restrooms. The findings showed that the level of contamination was higher in the lower-end restrooms, with the seat being the most contaminated area. The most dominant Gram-positive bacteria were of the coagulase-negative staphylococci species, making up 86% of the identified Gram-positive isolates. The most dominant Gram-negative bacteria identified were Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa). The antibiotic sensitivity test results revealed the presence of multidrug-resistant bacteria among the Gram-positive and negative isolates, including Staphylococcus haemolyticus (S. haemolyticus), Staphylococcus kloosii (S. kloosii), Acinetobacter baumanii (A. baumanii), and P. aeruginosa. In conclusion, the study underscores the significance of monitoring bacterial contamination in public restrooms and the need for measures to reduce the spread of infectious diseases. Further research is crucial to gain a complete understanding of the bacterial contamination in public restrooms and their resistance patterns, to ensure the safety and health of the public. The implementation of improved cleaning practices and hands-free designs in addition to the installation of antimicrobial surfaces in restrooms can help reduce the risk of cross-contamination and prevent the spread of diseases.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Environmental Aspects in the Maintenance of Human Health)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessCorrection
Correction: Wilderink et al. A Theoretical Perspective on Why Socioeconomic Health Inequalities Are Persistent: Building the Case for an Effective Approach. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19, 8384
by
Lisa Wilderink, Ingrid Bakker, Albertine J. Schuit, Jacob C. Seidell, Ioana A. Pop and Carry M. Renders
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 573; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050573 - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
In the original publication [...]
Full article
Figure 6
Open AccessArticle
Sex Ratio at Birth after Concurrent Events of Earthquakes and the COVID-19 Pandemic in Croatia
by
Dario Pavić
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 572; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050572 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
The sex ratio at birth (ratio of males to females) has been known to be affected by exogenous shocks such as wars, pollution, natural catastrophes, economic crises, and others. Among these stressful events, both earthquakes and the COVID-19 pandemic have been reported to
[...] Read more.
The sex ratio at birth (ratio of males to females) has been known to be affected by exogenous shocks such as wars, pollution, natural catastrophes, economic crises, and others. Among these stressful events, both earthquakes and the COVID-19 pandemic have been reported to lower the sex ratio at birth. In this article, a rather unusual situation of two episodes of simultaneous events of COVID-19 lockdown and earthquakes approximately nine months apart (March and December of 2020) is investigated to assess whether they were associated with a bias in sex ratio at birth 3–5 months later (in utero loss) and 9 months later (loss at conception) in Croatia. The monthly time series of sex ratio at birth, total number of births, and total number of both male and female births from January 2010 to December 2021 were analyzed. Seasonally adjusted autoregressive moving-average models were used to estimate the functional form of the time series from January 2010 to February 2020. These results were used to predict the future values of the series until December 2021 and to compare them with the actual values. For all series used, there was no indication of deviation from the values predicted by the models, neither for 3–5 months nor for 9 months after the COVID-19 lockdown and earthquake events. The possible mechanisms of the absence of bias, such as the threshold of the stressful events and its localized reach, as well as the statistical methods employed, are discussed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Behavioral Ecology and Health Outcomes)
Open AccessArticle
Effect of Peanut Butter Intake on Sleep Health in Firefighters: A Randomized Controlled Trial
by
Tiffany J. Oberther, Andrew R. Moore, Austin A. Kohler, David H. Shuler, Nicole Peritore and Angelia M. Holland-Winkler
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 571; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050571 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Sleep is often impaired in firefighters due to the psychologically and physiologically intense nature of their work and working shift schedules. Peanut butter is affordable and a substantial source of monounsaturated fatty acids, which may aid sleep health. Thus, this study sought to
[...] Read more.
Sleep is often impaired in firefighters due to the psychologically and physiologically intense nature of their work and working shift schedules. Peanut butter is affordable and a substantial source of monounsaturated fatty acids, which may aid sleep health. Thus, this study sought to determine if a daily serving of peanut butter consumed before bedtime for seven weeks altered sleep quality and quantity among full-time firefighters. Forty firefighters (peanut butter group = 20; control group = 20) participated in this eight-week randomized controlled trial. All participants completed a subjective questionnaire on mood, focus, and alertness twice daily and wore an Actigraph wristwatch to measure sleep variables, including latency, efficiency, time in bed, time asleep, wake after sleep onset, number of awakenings, and time spent awake. After a baseline week, the peanut butter group consumed two tablespoons of peanut butter two hours prior to bedtime for seven weeks. Compared to the control group, the peanut butter group did not demonstrate significant changes (p > 0.05) in sleep measures or subjective feelings of mood, focus, or alertness after consuming peanut butter for seven weeks. Therefore, peanut butter as a source of peanuts did not alter sleep quality or quantity in this group of firefighters. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06364202.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Reducing Loneliness through the Power of Practicing Together: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Online Dyadic Socio-Emotional vs. Mindfulness-Based Training
by
Hannah Matthaeus, Malvika Godara, Sarita Silveira, Martin Hecht, Manuel Voelkle and Tania Singer
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 570; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050570 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Loneliness has become a pressing topic, especially among young adults and during the COVID-19 pandemic. In a randomized controlled trial with 253 healthy adults, we evaluated the differential efficacy of two 10-week app-delivered mental training programs: one based on classic mindfulness and one
[...] Read more.
Loneliness has become a pressing topic, especially among young adults and during the COVID-19 pandemic. In a randomized controlled trial with 253 healthy adults, we evaluated the differential efficacy of two 10-week app-delivered mental training programs: one based on classic mindfulness and one on an innovative partner-based socio-emotional practice (Affect Dyad). We show that the partner-based training resulted in greater reductions in loneliness than the mindfulness-based training. This effect was shown on three measures of loneliness: general loneliness assessed with the 20-item UCLA Loneliness Scale, state loneliness queried over an 8-day ecological momentary assessment in participants’ daily lives, and loneliness ratings required before and after daily practice. Our study provides evidence for the higher efficacy of a mental training approach based on a 12 min practice conducted with a partner in reducing loneliness and provides a novel, scalable online approach to reduce the increasing problem of loneliness in society.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health Consequences of Social Isolation and Loneliness)
Open AccessArticle
Association of School Instructional Mode with Community COVID-19 Incidence during August–December 2020 in Cuyahoga County, Ohio
by
Pauline D. Terebuh, Jeffrey M. Albert, Jacqueline W. Curtis, Kurt C. Stange, Suzanne Hrusch, Kevin Brennan, Jill E. Miracle, Wail Yar, Prakash R. Ganesh, Heidi L. Gullett and Johnie Rose
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 569; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050569 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Remote and hybrid modes of instruction were employed as alternatives to in-person instruction as part of early mitigation efforts in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We investigated the impact of a public school district’s instructional mode on cumulative incidence and transmission in the
[...] Read more.
Remote and hybrid modes of instruction were employed as alternatives to in-person instruction as part of early mitigation efforts in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We investigated the impact of a public school district’s instructional mode on cumulative incidence and transmission in the surrounding community by employing a generalized estimating equations approach to estimate the association with weekly COVID-19 case counts by zip code in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, from August to December 2020. Remote instruction only (RI) was employed by 7 of 20 school districts; 13 used some non-remote instruction (NRI) (2–15 weeks). Weekly incidence increased in all zip codes from August to peak in late fall before declining. The zip code cumulative incidence within NRI school districts was higher than in those offering only RI (risk ratio = 1.12, p = 0.01; risk difference = 519 per 100,000, 95% confidence interval (123–519)). The mean effect for NRI on emergent cases 2 weeks after mode exposure, controlling for Social Vulnerability Index (SVI), was significant only for high SVI zip codes 1.30, p < 0.001. NRI may be associated with increased community COVID-19 incidence, particularly in communities with high SVI. Vulnerable communities may need more resources to open schools safely.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Consumption of Food Offered by Delivery Applications (Apps)
by
Jamile Carvalho Tahim, Sara Maria Moreira Lima Verde, Carla Soraya Costa Maia and Ilana Nogueira Bezerra
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 568; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050568 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate whether the use of food delivery applications is related to food consumption practices. Methods: Data collection was carried out between 5 and 20 June 2020 in a Brazilian capital with a final sample of 2113 individuals. The instrument
[...] Read more.
This study aimed to investigate whether the use of food delivery applications is related to food consumption practices. Methods: Data collection was carried out between 5 and 20 June 2020 in a Brazilian capital with a final sample of 2113 individuals. The instrument included questions about socioeconomic characteristics, anthropometric data, and information about eating practices and the use of delivery apps. Logistic regression models were developed with the consumption of each food group as the outcome variable and the use of the application as the exposure variable. Results: Of those interviewed, 78.1% used delivery apps to purchase food. The frequencies of the consumption of foods considered markers of healthy eating were higher for individuals who did not use the applications (59.7% vs. 38.7% for the daily consumption of fresh fruit, respectively, p < 0.0001). The frequencies of the consumption of items considered markers of unhealthy eating were higher for individuals who used apps to purchase food prepared outside the home compared to those who did not (53.7 vs. 38.1 for weekly consumption of hamburgers, respectively, p < 0.0001). Conclusion: The use of delivery applications influenced the users’ eating practices through the acquisition of food within the digital scope and is related to a greater frequency of the consumption of unhealthy items by users.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impact of Health Status and Environmental Factors on Food Intake)
Open AccessArticle
Bodily Practices and Meanings Articulated in the Physical Exercise of Older Adults in Santiago de Chile Post-COVID-19
by
Alexis Sossa Rojas
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 567; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050567 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
This article presents the results of almost nine months of ethnographic research on the relationship between physical exercise and health in older people in the post-COVID-19 context. Via exploratory–descriptive qualitative research and the use of a convenient sample, I shed light on this
[...] Read more.
This article presents the results of almost nine months of ethnographic research on the relationship between physical exercise and health in older people in the post-COVID-19 context. Via exploratory–descriptive qualitative research and the use of a convenient sample, I shed light on this relationship using the stories and life experiences of 40 older people (10 men and 30 women, including two women instructors for senior classes) who exercise regularly. The meanings they attributed to physical exercise during COVID-19 and after it are explained, emphasising first that there is no health in a context of not feeling safe; once there is a feeling of security, the most relevant meanings can be exposed in three directions. First, exercise produces a sense of identity linked to “being an athlete” and “belonging to a group”. Second, exercising is valued as participating in something meaningful (the meanings range from self-realisation, independence, and autonomy to feelings of happiness). Finally, and linked to the sense of identity, those who train alone show more commitment and total hours spent in physical exercise and physical activity than those who train in groups. Even though older people are not a homogeneous group, they generally faced the pandemic as an ageist situation that affected their lives and how they saw sports and health. This article describes the strategies they used during COVID-19 related to exercise and well-being and those used once the pandemic restrictions were no longer present. The qualitative aspects that physical exercise brings to this population are highlighted. The research results give voice to older people, showing their heterogeneity and the meanings and practices that unite them. These inputs are rich material for studies on physical activity, older people, and well-being.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Physical Fitness in an Aged Population)
Open AccessArticle
Prevalence and Clinical Profile of Adults with ADHD Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital for Five Years
by
Rabab Mohammed Bedawi, Yahya Al-Farsi, Hassan Mirza, Salim Al-Huseini, Tamadhir Al-Mahrouqi, Omaima Al-Kiyumi, Mohammed Al-Azri and Samir Al-Adawi
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 566; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050566 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
(1) Objectives: This study aimed to assess the 5-year prevalence and clinical profile of attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) among adult patients seeking care in a tertiary care hospital in Oman. (2) Methods: The data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics and
[...] Read more.
(1) Objectives: This study aimed to assess the 5-year prevalence and clinical profile of attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) among adult patients seeking care in a tertiary care hospital in Oman. (2) Methods: The data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics and standardised prevalence estimates were calculated. (3) Results: Of the 39,881 hospital visits, 1.77% were made by adults with ADHD. This is equivalent to 17.8 visits per 1000 outpatients. The year 2021 saw the highest prevalence among the five years considered, while 2020 had the lowest prevalence. Although the age distribution indicated that the age group ‘under 20’ had the highest prevalence, the gender distribution showed that ADHD was more common among adult men. Among the various subtypes of ADHD, inattention was the most common. (4) Conclusions: This study specifically compared the prevalence and associated factors between an adult cohort with ADHD and those other psychiatric clinic attendees during the same period. The study offers important information on the prevalence and clinical profile of adults with ADHD in the population under consideration.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
A Mixed-Methods Evaluation to Inform the Hawaiʻi Suicide Prevention Strategic Plan
by
Saikaew Dudla, Tarin T. Tanji, Jeanelle Sugimoto-Matsuda, Jane J. Chung-Do, Eric Agluba, Tricia Khun, Shivani Trivedi and Deborah Goebert
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 565; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050565 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
The Prevent Suicide Hawaiʻi Taskforce is a state, public, and private partnership of individuals, organizations, and community groups that leads statewide suicide prevention efforts in Hawaiʻi. The purpose of this evaluation was to identify the progress and barriers of the Taskforce to inform
[...] Read more.
The Prevent Suicide Hawaiʻi Taskforce is a state, public, and private partnership of individuals, organizations, and community groups that leads statewide suicide prevention efforts in Hawaiʻi. The purpose of this evaluation was to identify the progress and barriers of the Taskforce to inform the upcoming 2025 Hawaiʻi Suicide Prevention Strategic Plan in the following areas: Hope, Help, Heal, Research and Evaluation, and Policy and Advocacy. Utilizing a sequential exploratory mixed-methods approach, 18 key informants were interviewed, followed by a 13-question survey sent to the Taskforce member listserv. Results were analyzed using qualitative coding techniques and descriptive statistics. Interview findings contained six themes: importance of community relationships, interconnection of suicide prevention efforts, progress in diversifying training, organizational challenges, adaptations to the COVID-19 pandemic, and funding challenges. Of the 34 survey respondents, most were involved in the area of Hope (91%). The respondents reported the area with most progress was Hope (87%), and the most important area to address was Help (41%). The majority (82%) of the respondents characterized the level of Taskforce communication as Excellent or Good. Interview and survey data corroborated each other and revealed new insights about the successes and barriers of the Taskforce and their progress in implementing the Strategic Plan. Recommendations included advocating for long-term funding for suicide prevention and building community relationships.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Suicide in Asia and the Pacific)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Disclosing Strain: How Psychosocial Risk Factors Influence Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Healthcare Workers Preceding and during the COVID-19 Pandemic
by
Carla Barros and Pilar Baylina
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 564; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050564 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Healthcare workers, particularly nurses, engage in a daily work routine that takes a toll on their emotional well-being, rendering them vulnerable to psychosocial risk factors. This research seeks to analyse the influence of psychosocial risk factors on the occurrence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders
[...] Read more.
Healthcare workers, particularly nurses, engage in a daily work routine that takes a toll on their emotional well-being, rendering them vulnerable to psychosocial risk factors. This research seeks to analyse the influence of psychosocial risk factors on the occurrence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among nurses. An additional analysis was performed to understand the role of age in work-related musculoskeletal disorders and the perception of psychosocial risk factors. The study was conducted during two separate periods—pre-pandemic and pandemic times—involving a sample of 456 nurses from both public and private hospitals in Portugal. The INSAT—Health and Work Survey—was used as measuring instrument. The primary observations indicated a consistency between psychosocial risk factors and the occurrence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. The findings revealed a significant exposure to psychosocial risk factors, with work pace, intensity, work relationships, and emotional demands exhibiting higher global average percentages during both periods, pre-pandemic and pandemic. Nonetheless, we find that the psychosocial risk factors change when we analyse the pre-pandemic and pandemic results. During the period before the pandemic, the psychosocial risk factors that were most commonly reported included the demanding pace of work, long working hours, and emotional demands. Through the pandemic, the most pronounced psychosocial risk factors were work relationships, employment relationships, and ethical and values conflicts. Therefore, research in this domain is essential to understanding psychosocial risk factors and assessing the less obvious links between work and health.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Ergonomics, Human Factors and Safety for Occupational Health)
Open AccessEssay
A Holistic Approach to Early Relational Health: Cultivating Culture, Diversity, and Equity
by
Dominique Charlot-Swilley, Kandace Thomas, Christina F. Mondi, David W. Willis and Marie-Celeste Condon
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 563; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050563 - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Early Relational Health (ERH) is the foundation for infant and child emotional and social wellbeing. ERH is a quality of relationships co-created by infants, caregivers, and other members of their families and communities from pregnancy through childhood. Relationships themselves are not ERH; rather,
[...] Read more.
Early Relational Health (ERH) is the foundation for infant and child emotional and social wellbeing. ERH is a quality of relationships co-created by infants, caregivers, and other members of their families and communities from pregnancy through childhood. Relationships themselves are not ERH; rather, ERH can be a feature of relationships. Those that are characterized by positive, shared emotionality become contexts within which members co-develop mutual capacities that enable them to prevail and flourish. This essay offers a synthesis of current knowledge about ERH in the US and begins to integrate Indigenous and non-Indigenous research and knowledge about ERH in the hope that readers will embrace “Etuaptmumk”—“Two-Eyed Seeing”. The authors maintain that systems of care for infants, families, and their communities must first and foremost attend to revitalization, cultural context, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Authors discuss key concepts in ERH; Indigenous and non-Indigenous research that inform ERH; structural and systemic factors in the US that affect ERH ecosystems; the critical intersections of culture, diversity, equity; the broader concept of village support for fostering ERH; and efforts to revitalize ERH discourse, practices, and policies. The authors advocate for a holistic approach to ERH and suggest future directions for research and advocacy.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Family-Based Treatment Approaches in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- IJERPH Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Society Collaborations
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal Browser-
arrow_forward_ios
Forthcoming issue
arrow_forward_ios Current issue - Vol. 21 (2024)
- Vol. 20 (2023)
- Vol. 19 (2022)
- Vol. 18 (2021)
- Vol. 17 (2020)
- Vol. 16 (2019)
- Vol. 15 (2018)
- Vol. 14 (2017)
- Vol. 13 (2016)
- Vol. 12 (2015)
- Vol. 11 (2014)
- Vol. 10 (2013)
- Vol. 9 (2012)
- Vol. 8 (2011)
- Vol. 7 (2010)
- Vol. 6 (2009)
- Vol. 5 (2008)
- Vol. 4 (2007)
- Vol. 3 (2006)
- Vol. 2 (2005)
- Vol. 1 (2004)
Highly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Energies, IJERPH, Minerals, Mining, Safety
Exploring the Mine Environment, Safety Risk and Occupational Health
Topic Editors: Chengyu Xie, Jian Zhou, Danial Jahed Armaghani, Qingfa Chen, Wei PanDeadline: 30 June 2024
Topic in
Cancers, IJERPH, JCM
Bridging Oral Medicine and Systemic Disease
Topic Editors: Pia Lopez-Jornet, Ivan Alajbeg, Rui Amaral Mendes, Eduardo Pons-FusterDeadline: 7 July 2024
Topic in
Healthcare, IJERPH, Social Sciences
Migration, Health and Equity
Topic Editors: Madhu Sudhan Atteraya, Roman ShersthaDeadline: 31 July 2024
Topic in
IJERPH, Microplastics, Sustainability, Toxics, Water
Microplastics Pollution
Topic Editors: Grigorios L. Kyriakopoulos, Vassilis J. Inglezakis, Antonis A. Zorpas, María Rocío Rodríguez BarrosoDeadline: 31 August 2024
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
IJERPH
A Primary Intervention for Suicidal Behaviors and Depression
Guest Editor: Elvira Ventura SpagnoloDeadline: 2 May 2024
Special Issue in
IJERPH
Applications of Big Data Mining in Healthcare
Guest Editors: Dagang Li, Ying ShenDeadline: 15 May 2024
Special Issue in
IJERPH
Oral Health among the Older Population
Guest Editors: Inger Wårdh, Nivetha GavriilidouDeadline: 31 May 2024
Special Issue in
IJERPH
Using Mobile Technology to Promote Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health
Guest Editor: Judith CorneliusDeadline: 15 June 2024
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
IJERPH
Public Health Surveillance and Infectious Disease Control
Collection Editors: Giovanni Improta, Emma Montella, Giovanni Boccia, Ilaria Loperto
Topical Collection in
IJERPH
A Focus on Healthcare from the Perspective of Gender, Culture, Management, and the Economy
Collection Editors: José Siles Gonzalez, Carmen Solano Ruiz, Paulo Joaquim Pina Queirós, Benito Yañez-Araque
Topical Collection in
IJERPH
Epidemiological Lifestyle Analysis and Infection Prevention in Public Health
Collection Editors: Mariusz Gujski, Mateusz Jankowski