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, SCIE and SSCI (Web of Science), PubMed, MEDLINE, PMC, GEOBASE, Embase, CAPlus / SciFinder, and many other databases.
Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Public, Environmental & Occupational Health) / 2020 CiteScore - Q2 (Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health)
Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision provided to authors approximately 17.4 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2020).
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 authors say about IJERPH
Sections: published in twenty-six topical sections
Companion journals for IJERPH include: Dermatopathology, Sexes, Disabilities, Trauma Care, Adolescents, Nursing Reports and Journal of Ageing and Longevity.

Impact Factor: 2.849 (2019) ; 5-Year Impact Factor: 3.127 (2019)

Imprint Information Journal Flyer Open Access ISSN: 1660-4601

Latest Articles

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Motor Imagery in Predicting Motor Skills in Young Male Soccer Players

Dariusz Zapała

Emilia Zabielska-Mendyk

Andrzej Cudo

Marta Jaśkiewicz

Marcin Kwiatkowski

and

Agnieszka Kwiatkowska

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6316; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126316 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

The study aimed to find out whether the imagery ability within the two subcomponents of motor imagery (visual and kinesthetic) allows predicting the results in simple response time task and eye–hand coordination task in a group of young male soccer players (9–15 years old). Non-specific simple response time and eye–hand coordination play a key role in predicting specific sports performance level. Participants performed Reaction Time Task, Eye–Hand Coordination Task, and completed Motor Imagery Questionnaire–Revised. Data were submitted to the structural equations analysis based on the maximum likelihood method in order to estimate a structural model of relationship between variables. Results indicate visual rather than kinesthetic motor imagery is associated with non-specific motor skills. Higher scores on the visual motor imagery scale were observed to correlate with faster reaction times and better coordination in the study group. This supports the idea that during learning a new perceptual-motor-task the visual control is required. Results provide the evidence for the specific role of the third-person perspective imagery in young athletes playing soccer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Translational Aspects of Motor Imagery)

Open AccessArticle

Dog Walking before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown: Experiences of UK Dog Owners

Sara C. Owczarczak-Garstecka

Taryn M. Graham

Debra C. Archer

and

Carri Westgarth

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6315; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126315 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

Background: This study investigated the impacts of the first COVID-19 UK lockdown on dog walking and ownership. Methods: An online survey was circulated via social media (May–June 2020). Completed responses (n = 584) were analysed using within- and between-group comparisons, and multivariable linear and logistic regression models were created. Open-ended data were coded into key themes. Results: During lockdown, dogs were walked less frequently, yet for a similar duration per week and closer to home. Dogs whose owners lived alone, or whose owners or household members had heightened vulnerability to COVID-19 were walked less than before, as were high-energy dogs. A minority of owners continued dog walking despite exhibiting symptoms or needing to self-isolate, justifying lack of help, dog behavioural problems, living in less populated areas, and the importance of outdoor exercise for their mental health. Dog ownership had multiple benefits (companionship, purpose and motivation; break from bad; positive to focus on) as well as challenges (changes in dog behaviour, balancing dog needs with public health guidance, accessing pet food/supplies and services, and sharing crowded outdoor spaces with others). Most did not have an emergency care plan for their pet before the pandemic and only a handful developed one. Conclusions: Findings can be used to inform public health and dog welfare strategies for future lockdown situations or other disasters and emergencies likely to impact on daily routines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Active and Healthy Confinement Lifestyle (AHCL): Cross-Disciplinary Approach to Be Better Prepared for Future Pandemics)

Open AccessArticle

Get Close to the Robot: The Effect of Risk Perception of COVID-19 Pandemic on Customer–Robot Engagement

Jifei Wu

Xiangyun Zhang

Yimin Zhu

and

Grace Fang Yu-Buck

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6314; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126314 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on customer–robot engagement in the Chinese hospitality industry. Analysis of a sample of 589 customers using service robots demonstrated that the perceived risk of COVID-19 has a positive influence on customer–robot engagement. The positive effect is mediated by social distancing and moderated by attitudes towards risk. Specifically, the mediating effect of social distancing between the perceived risk of COVID-19 and customer–robot engagement is stronger for risk-avoiding (vs. risk-seeking) customers. Our results provide insights for hotels when they employ service robots to cope with the shock of COVID-19 pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19 Outbreak and Beyond: Psychological and Behavioral Responses and Future Perspectives)

Open AccessArticle

An Integrated Approach to Hygiene, Sanitation, and Storage Practices for Improving Microbial Quality of Drinking Water Treated at Point of Use: A Case Study in Makwane Village, South Africa

Resoketswe Charlotte Moropeng

Phumudzo Budeli

and

Maggy Ndombo Benteke Momba

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6313; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126313 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

This study assessed the impact of sanitation practices, hygienic and storage conditions on the quality of drinking water treated at point-of-use in Makwane Village. Subsequent to implementation of low-cost Household Water Treatment Devices which are the biosand filter with zeolite-silver (BSZ-SICG) and silver-impregnated porous pot (SIPP) filters in Makwane village, a structured questionnaire was designed to collect the following information: age of caretakers, number of children under the age of five, water storage conditions, sanitation amenities, and hygiene practices. Water quality from the sources to household level was assessed using culture-based and molecular techniques. The results revealed a significant association between the presence of Escherichia coli in treated drinking water with the age group of caregivers and the number of children ofless than the age of five [OR (95% CI) = 8.4737 (0.147–3.3497), p = 0.0141923 and OR (95% CI) = 9.1667 (0.1848–3.0159); p = 0.0165830, respectively]. Moreover, significant association was noted between hygiene practices (washing of hands with/without soap) and water quality in storage containers [OR (95% CI) = 16.000 (0.6763–3.9495), p = 0.0000125]. These findings further prove that there is still a dire need for reconsidering hygiene education in rural areas as the health benefits of water treated at point of use (POU) coupled with safe-storage condition interventions might not be guaranteed without proper hygiene. The results further highlighted the importance of washing hands in improving microbial quality of drinking water, which is the key factor for fighting against infectious diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Trends in Drinking Water Quality)

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Open AccessReview

SARS-CoV-2: An Overview of Virus Genetics, Transmission, and Immunopathogenesis

Mohamed A. Farrag

Haitham M. Amer

Rauf Bhat

Maaweya E. Hamed

Ibrahim M. Aziz

Ayman Mubarak

Turki M Dawoud

Sami G Almalki

Fayez Alghofaili

Ahmad K. Alnemare

Raid Saleem Al-Baradi

Bandar Alosaimi

and

Wael Alturaiki

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6312; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126312 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

The human population is currently facing the third and possibly the worst pandemic caused by human coronaviruses (CoVs). The virus was first reported in Wuhan, China, on 31 December 2019 and spread within a short time to almost all countries of the world. Genome analysis of the early virus isolates has revealed high similarity with SARS-CoV and hence the new virus was officially named SARS-CoV-2. Since CoVs have the largest genome among all RNA viruses, they can adapt to many point mutation and recombination events; particularly in the spike gene, which enable these viruses to rapidly change and evolve in nature. CoVs are known to cross the species boundaries by using different cellular receptors. Both animal reservoir and intermediate host for SARS-CoV-2 are still unresolved and necessitate further investigation. In the current review, different aspects of SARS-CoV-2 biology and pathogenicity are discussed, including virus genetics and evolution, spike protein and its role in evolution and adaptation to novel hosts, and virus transmission and persistence in nature. In addition, the immune response developed during SARS-CoV-2 infection is demonstrated with special reference to the interplay between immune cells and their role in disease progression. We believe that the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak will not be the last and spillover of CoVs from bats will continue. Therefore, establishing intervention approaches to reduce the likelihood of future CoVs spillover from natural reservoirs is a priority. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Development of the Adult Pandemic Attitude Scale (A-PAS)

Mihyeon Seong

Juyoung Park

Soojin Chung

and

Sohyune Sok

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6311; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126311 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

This study aimed to develop an instrument for measuring the attitudes that reflect the characteristics of the pandemic (Adult Pandemic Attitude Scale (A-PAS)) and verifying its validity and reliability. This study used a methodological research design and was conducted with a development step and an evaluation step. The development step included development of preliminary items, content validity, face validity, and preliminary investigation. The evaluation step included item analysis, construct validity, convergent validity, discriminant validity, criterion validity, factor naming, reliability, and completion of the final instrument. The A-PAS developed in this study consisted of a total of 20 items in five dimensions. The internal consistency of 20 items of the A-PAS, Cronbach’s α was 0.92 for 20 items, Cronbach’s α for each factor, a subscale of instrument, was 0.61~0.87 and Raykov’s p coefficient of each factor, which is a subscale of the tool, was found to be 0.60 to 0.88. Analysis of construct validity showed the results as follows: χ²(p) = 134.05 (p < 0.001), RMSEA = 0.02, RMR = 0.02, GFI = 0.94, CFI = 0.99. The study findings suggest that the developed instrument can be utilized to measure the attitudes of adults toward pandemics, and reflect the reality of the pandemic situation. The outcomes can be used as valuable data for intervention, prevention activities, and policy preparation. The instrument will be applied in the event of a pandemic, such as COVID-19, and will be helpful in promoting the health of the people. Full article

Open AccessArticle

Diagnostic Accuracy of a New Antigen Test for SARS-CoV-2 Detection

Marina Di Domenico

Alfredo De Rosa

Francesca Di Gaudio

Pietro Internicola

Cinzia Bettini

Nicola Salzano

Davide Castrianni

Andrea Marotta

and

Mariarosaria Boccellino

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6310; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126310 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

Background and aims: Quick and reliable diagnostic tools play an important role in controlling the spread of the SARS-Cov-2 pandemic. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of a new cyto-salivary antigen test aimed at detecting the presence of antigens for SARS-CoV-2, as compared by the gold standard RT-PCR and a lateral flow test. Methods: A total of 433 healthy volunteers were enrolled in the study and the sensitivity and specificity of the new cyto-salivary antigen test were calculated, as compared to the RT-PCR nasopharyngeal swab and to the lateral flow test. Results: A total of 433 samples were collected and tested at the Mediterranean Fair in Palermo from February 2021 until April 2021. The new cyto-salivary antigen had a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 94.2%. The sensitivity and the specificity of the lateral flow test were 55% and 100%, respectively. Conclusions: The new cyto-salivary antigen test detected more positive cases than the RT-PCR in a sample of asymptomatic subjects, demonstrating to be a promising tool for a more sensitive diagnosis of COVID-19. Further studies are warranted to better characterize its diagnostic accuracy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Basics of Hygiene in Public Health and Health Promotion)

Open AccessArticle

The Pathways Linking to Sleep Habits among Children and Adolescents: A Complete Survey at Setagaya-ku, Tokyo

Shingo Noi

Akiko Shikano

Ryo Tanaka

Kosuke Tanabe

Natsuko Enomoto

Tetsuhiro Kidokoro

Naoko Yamada

and

Mari Yoshinaga

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6309; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126309 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

It has been noted that Japanese children sleep the least in the world, and this has become a major social issue. This study examined the pathways linked to sleep habits (SH) among children and adolescents. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted in March 2019 on children and their parents at all 63 public elementary and 29 public junior high schools in Setagaya-ku, Tokyo. For the analysis, 22,385 pairs of children–parent responses (valid response rate: 68.8%) with no missing data were used. This survey collected data on SH, physical activity (PA), screen time (ST) for the child, and lifestyle and neighborhood social capital (NSC) for the parents. Moreover, the pathways linking ‘NSC’ → ‘parental lifestyle’ → ‘child’s PA/ST’ →‘child’s SH’ were examined through structural equation modeling. The results indicated that children’s SH were affected by their PA and ST and influenced by the lifestyle of their parents and the NSC that surrounds them. Thus, we concluded that it is necessary to provide direct interventions and take additional measures with regard to parent lifestyle and their NSC to solve persistent sleep problems in children. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sleep in Children)

Open AccessArticle

Boredom Makes Me Sick: Adolescents’ Boredom Trajectories and Their Health-Related Quality of Life

Manuel M. Schwartze

Anne C. Frenzel

Thomas Goetz

Reinhard Pekrun

Corinna Reck

Anton K. G. Marx

and

Daniel Fiedler

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6308; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126308 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

Existing research shows consistent links between boredom and depression, somatic complaints, substance abuse, or obesity and eating disorders. However, comparatively little is known about potential psychological and physical health-related correlates of academic boredom. Evidence for such a relationship can be derived from the literature, as boredom has adverse consequences in both work and achievement-related settings. The present study investigates latent correlations of 1.484 adolescents’ (M_age = 13.23) mathematics boredom scores at three time points during a semester in 2018/19 and their Rasch scaled health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Moreover, we applied latent growth curve modeling to estimate boredom trajectories across the semester and determined the relationship between the latent growth parameters of student boredom and HRQoL in bivariate correlation analyses. Our results show that boredom is significantly negatively linked with all HRQoL dimensions (physical well-being, psychological well-being, autonomy and parent relation, social support and peers, school environment [SCH], and general HRQoL [GH]). Furthermore, stronger increases in boredom across the semester were negatively associated with SCH scores and GH. In conclusion, given that boredom is negatively linked with HRQoL and that stronger boredom growth is linked with more severe health-related problems, signs of academic boredom could be an early warning signal for adolescents’ potentially severe problems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Boredom in Health, Education and Sports)

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship between Nutrition Knowledge and Nutrition Facts Table Use in China: A Structural Equation Model

Zeying Huang

Beixun Huang

and

Jiazhang Huang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6307; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126307 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

Since 2013, China has implemented a nutrition label regulation that aims to provide essential nutrition information through nutrition facts tables labeled on the back of food packages. Yet, the relationship between people’s nutrition knowledge and their nutrition label use remains less clear. This study adopted the structural equation modeling approach to analyze a nationally representative survey of 1500 Chinese individuals through the cognitive processing model, interrelated nutrition knowledge, attention to nutrition information on the nutrition facts table, comprehension of nutrition information, food choice and dietary intake. It was found that nutrition knowledge positively influenced attention to nutrition information; a better comprehension of nutrition information, which could benefit healthier food choices, did not relate to a higher level of attention to that information; dietary intake was affected significantly by nutrition knowledge, but it had little impact on food choice. The results signify that nutrition knowledge hardly supports nutrition facts table use among the Chinese people, mainly due to incomprehensible labeled information. Therefore, it emphasizes the need to enhance people’s comprehension through front-of-package labels and corresponding smartphone applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Health Behavior, Chronic Disease and Health Promotion)

Open AccessStudy Protocol

Improving Depressive Symptoms through Personalised Exercise and Activation (IDEA): Study Protocol for a Randomised Controlled Trial

Aitana García-Estela

Natalia Angarita-Osorio

Sandra Alonso

Maria Polo

Maria Roldán-Berengué

Monique Messaggi-Sartor

Estanislao Mur-Mila

Laura Vargas-Puertolas

Víctor Pérez

Esther Duarte

and

Francesc Colom

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6306; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126306 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

Individuals who suffer from depressive symptoms experience a substantial impact on psychosocial functioning, physical health, mortality, and quality of life. In the search for therapeutic strategies, exercise has been found to play a relevant part in its treatment. However, the promotion of exercise entails adherence difficulties that arose out of the tendency towards sedentarism led by symptomatology. Personalised exercise plans on top of usual care have the potential to enhance behavioural changes and mental health. The present study aims at evaluating the changes in functioning deriving from a blended intervention merging a psychological intervention with a personalised exercise programme based on medical assessment. We will conduct a three-arm randomised controlled trial in which 172 participants suffering from mild–moderate depressive symptoms will be allocated to Intervention A (personalised exercise group programme + app with motivational messages), B (personalised exercise group programme + app with no motivational messages) or control group (app with no motivational messages). Data regarding global functioning, well-being, symptoms, physical activity, and exercise capacity will be collected at baseline, 4, 12, and 36 weeks. The results of this trial will provide information about whether this physical activity support programme may be efficient for improving mental and physical health outcomes. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04857944 (accessed on 15 April 2021). Registered April 2021. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychosocial Treatments in Routine Mental Health Care)

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Open AccessArticle

Using Intervention Mapping to Develop a Media Literacy-Based Smoking Prevention Program for Female Adolescents

Sookyung Kim

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6305; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126305 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

Smoking prevalence among female adolescents in South Korea has increased gradually, despite a decreasing trend seen for male adolescents. Smoking scenes or cigarette advertisements in the media have influenced female adolescents’ initiation into smoking. It is therefore crucial to develop a smoking prevention program to enhance female adolescents’ smoking media literacy by implementing gender-specific interventions. The purpose of this study is to describe how intervention mapping protocol (IMP) was used to develop a media literacy-based smoking prevention program (MLSP) for female adolescents. The IMP was used in six steps: needs assessment (literature review and focus groups comprising 24 female adolescents and 12 teachers), program goal setting, selection of intervention methods, production of program components and materials, program implementation planning, and program evaluation by ten experts and three adolescents. Six performance objectives and 14 change objectives were generated. Each module consisted of theory-based methods such as raising consciousness. Half of the modules covered topics regarding smoking media literacy, while half covered topics related to gender-specific intervention. The major advantages of utilizing IMP are that MLSP has been developed to reflect multiple perspectives, including of adolescents, teachers, and professors through a systematic process, and identified to be acceptable and valid. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development, Adaptation and Evaluation of Public Health Interventions: A Complex Systems Perspective)

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Open AccessBrief Report

Potential Improvement in Rehabilitation Quality of 2019 Novel Coronavirus by Isometric Training System; Is There “Muscle-Lung Cross-Talk”?

Hadi Nobari

Mohamad Fashi

Arezoo Eskandari

Jorge Pérez-Gómez

and

Katsuhiko Suzuki

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6304; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126304 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

The novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis is now present in more than 200 countries. It started in December 2019 and has, so far, led to more than 149, 470,968 cases, 3,152,121 deaths, and 127,133,013 survivors recovered by 28 April 2021. COVID-19 has a high morbidity, and mortality of 2%, on average, whereas most people are treated after a period of time. Some people who recover from COVID-19 are left with 20 to 30% decreased lung function. In this context, exercise focused on skeletal muscle with minimal lung involvement could potentially play an important role. Regular exercise protects against diseases associated with chronic low-grade systemic inflammation. This long-term effect of exercise may be ascribed to the anti-inflammatory response elicited by an acute bout of exercise, which is partly mediated by muscle-derived myokines. The isometric training system seems to have this feature, because this system is involved with the skeletal muscle as the target tissue. However, no studies have examined the effect of exercise on the treatment and recovery of COVID-19, and, more importantly, “muscle–lung cross-talk” as a mechanism for COVID-19 treatment. It is suggested that this theoretical construct be examined by researchers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Training for Optimal Sports Performance and Health)

Open AccessArticle

Occupational Heat Stress: Multi-Country Observations and Interventions

Leonidas G. Ioannou

Konstantinos Mantzios

Lydia Tsoutsoubi

Eleni Nintou

Maria Vliora

Paraskevi Gkiata

Constantinos N. Dallas

Giorgos Gkikas

Gerasimos Agaliotis

Kostas Sfakianakis

Areti K. Kapnia

Davide J. Testa

Tânia Amorim

Petros C. Dinas

Tiago S. Mayor

Chuansi Gao

Lars Nybo

and

Andreas D. Flouris

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6303; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126303 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

Background: Occupational heat exposure can provoke health problems that increase the risk of certain diseases and affect workers’ ability to maintain healthy and productive lives. This study investigates the effects of occupational heat stress on workers’ physiological strain and labor productivity, as well as examining multiple interventions to mitigate the problem. Methods: We monitored 518 full work-shifts obtained from 238 experienced and acclimatized individuals who work in key industrial sectors located in Cyprus, Greece, Qatar, and Spain. Continuous core body temperature, mean skin temperature, heart rate, and labor productivity were collected from the beginning to the end of all work-shifts. Results: In workplaces where self-pacing is not feasible or very limited, we found that occupational heat stress is associated with the heat strain experienced by workers. Strategies focusing on hydration, work-rest cycles, and ventilated clothing were able to mitigate the physiological heat strain experienced by workers. Increasing mechanization enhanced labor productivity without increasing workers’ physiological strain. Conclusions: Empowering laborers to self-pace is the basis of heat mitigation, while tailored strategies focusing on hydration, work-rest cycles, ventilated garments, and mechanization can further reduce the physiological heat strain experienced by workers under certain conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prevention of Adverse Health Outcomes Related to Heat Exposure in Working Populations)

Open AccessArticle

Estimating Need for Glasses and Hearing Aids in The Gambia: Results from a National Survey and Comparison of Clinical Impairment and Self-Report Assessment Approaches

Dorothy Boggs

Abba Hydara

Yaka Faal

John Atta Okoh

Segun Isaac Olaniyan

Haruna Sanneh

Abdoulie Ngett

Isatou Bah

Mildred Aleser

Erima Denis

Ian McCormick

Tess Bright

Suzannah Bell

Minjung Kim

Allen Foster

Hannah Kuper

Matthew J. Burton

Islay Mactaggart

and

Sarah Polack

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6302; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126302 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

Few estimates are available of the need for assistive devices (ADs) in African settings. This study aimed to estimate population-level need for glasses and hearing aids in The Gambia based on (1) clinical impairment assessment, and (2) self-reported AD awareness, and explore the relationship between the two methods. The Gambia 2019 National Eye Health Survey is a nationally representative population-based sample of 9188 adults aged 35+ years. Participants underwent standardised clinical vision assessments including the need for glasses (distance and near). Approximately 25% of the sample underwent clinical assessment of hearing and hearing aid need. Data were also collected on self-reported awareness, need and access barriers to vision and hearing ADs. Overall, 5.6% of the study population needed distance glasses (95% CI 5.0–6.3), 45.9% (95% CI 44.2–47.5) needed near glasses and 25.5% (95% CI 22.2–29.2) needed hearing aids. Coverage for each AD was very low (<4%). The agreement between self-report and clinical impairment assessment for AD need was poor. In conclusion, there is high prevalence and very low coverage for distance glasses, near glasses and hearing aids in The Gambia. Self-report measures alone will not provide an accurate estimate of AD need. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assistive Technology and Support Services for People with Disabilities in Low Resource Settings)

Open AccessArticle

A Descriptive Analysis of Transitions from Smoking to Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS) Use: A Daily Diary Investigation

Tamlin S. Conner

Jiaxu Zeng

Mei-Ling Blank

Vicky He

and

Janet Hoek

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6301; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126301 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

Objectives: We aimed to examine patterns in smoking and electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) use over an extended period of time (up to 20 weeks) in people who smoked and who had never previously made a successful quit attempt using an ENDS. Design and setting: We conducted a longitudinal mixed-methods study in Dunedin, New Zealand, during 2018 and 2019. Participants: Purposively selected participants (N = 45; age (≥18 years), gender, ethnicities, cigarettes/day) who wished to quit smoking. Interventions: Participants were provided with a second-generation ENDS device (vape pen or starter “tank” device) at the start of their quit attempt, and asked to complete smartphone-based daily diary surveys assessing smoking and ENDS use. Outcome measures: Sunburst plots and a sequence plot were used to describe weekly and daily patterns of smoking and ENDS use (smoking only, ENDS use only, dual use, abstinent). Results: The most frequently reported movements among participants, classified according to their study week behaviour, occurred between dual use and exclusive ENDS use (and vice versa). A smaller group reported moving from dual use to exclusive smoking (and often back to dual use), and a small number reported moving between abstinence and different ENDS and smoked tobacco usage behaviours. Data visualisations focussing on those participants who had provided data during each of weeks 9–12 indicate that only a minority reported sustained dual use; instead, most participants indicated varied smoked tobacco and ENDS use, which included periods of dual use. Conclusions: The considerable variety observed within and between study participants suggests that high variability is typical rather than exceptional. Transitions from smoking to ENDS use may involve considerable periods of dual use, which is likely to be dynamic and potentially sustained over several months. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Effects of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS): What Can Be Learned from Human and Experimental Studies?)

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Open AccessArticle

Selective Inhibitory Control in Middle Childhood

Irene Rincón-Pérez

Alberto J. Sánchez-Carmona

Susana Arroyo-Lozano

Carlos García-Rubio

José Antonio Hinojosa

Alberto Fernández-Jaén

Sara López-Martín

and

Jacobo Albert

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6300; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126300 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

The main aim of this study was to investigate the development of selective inhibitory control in middle childhood, a critical period for the maturation of inhibition-related processes. To this end, 64 children aged 6–7 and 56 children aged 10–11 performed a stimulus-selective stop-signal task, which allowed us to estimate not only the efficiency of response inhibition (the stop-signal reaction time or SSRT), but also the strategy adopted by participants to achieve task demands. We found that the adoption of a non-selective (global) strategy characterized by stopping indiscriminately to all stimuli decreased in older children, so that most of them were able to interrupt their ongoing responses selectively at the end of middle childhood. Moreover, compared to younger children, older children were more efficient in their ability to cancel an initiated response (indexed by a shorter SSRT), regardless of which strategy they used. Additionally, we found improvements in other forms of impulsivity, such as the control of premature responding (waiting impulsivity), and attentional-related processes, such as intra-individual variability and distractibility. The present results suggest that middle childhood represents a milestone in the development of crucial aspects of inhibitory control, including selective stopping. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Executive Control and Emotion Regulation in Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults)

Open AccessArticle

Precarious Employment and Increased Incidence of Musculoskeletal Pain among Wage Workers in Korea: A Cross-Sectional Study

Sungjin Park

and

Junehee Lee

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6299; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126299 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

The number of precarious workers is increasing globally, and precarious employment is becoming a public concern in terms of workers’ health. However, sufficient research on precarious employment and its impact on musculoskeletal pain (MSP) is lacking. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between precarious employment and the risk of MSP among Korean wage workers. After merging the data from the 4th and 5th Korean Working Conditions Surveys, 59,644 wage workers were analyzed. The control group comprised full-time permanent workers, and precarious employment was defined as workers involved in temporary or daily employment, or part-time workers. The outcome variable was the summed number of MSP in three anatomical sites (back, neck and upper limb, lower limb). Zero-inflated negative binomial analyses were selected to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) between precarious employment and MSP. In adjusted models with age, sex, educational level, income level, weekly working hours, and occupation, precarious employment was significantly associated with an increased risk of both MSP (OR 1.66 95% CI 1.56–1.77) and work-related MSP (OR 1.18 95% CI 1.11–1.25). Given the job insecurity and health inequity associated with precarious employment, special attention on precarious workers’ health is needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical and Mental Health in the Workplace)

Open AccessArticle

Factor Structure of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale in a Sample of Postpartum Slovak Women

Zuzana Škodová

Ľubica Bánovčinová

Eva Urbanová

Marián Grendár

and

Martina Bašková

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6298; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126298 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

Background: Postpartum depression has a negative impact on quality of life. The aim of this study was to examine the factor structure and psychometric properties of the Slovak version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Methods: A paper and pencil version of the 10-item EPDS questionnaire was administered personally to 577 women at baseline during their stay in hospital on the second to fourth day postpartum (age, 30.6 ± 4.9 years; 73.5% vaginal births vs. 26.5% operative births; 59.4% primiparas). A total of 198 women participated in the online follow-up 6–8 weeks postpartum (questionnaire sent via e-mail). Results: The Slovak version of the EPDS had Cronbach’s coefficients of 0.84 and 0.88 at baseline (T1) and follow-up, respectively. The three-dimensional model of the scale offered good fit for both the baseline (χ²_{(df = 28)} = 1339.38, p < 0.001; CFI = 0.99, RMSEA = 0.02, and TLI = 0.99) and follow-up (χ²_{(df = 45)} = 908.06, p < 0.001, CFI = 0.93, RMSEA = 0.09, and TL = 0.90). A risk of major depression (EPDS score ≥ 13) was identified in 6.1% in T1 and 11.6% in the follow-up. Elevated levels of depression symptoms (EPDS score ≥ 10) were identified in 16.7% and 22.7% of the respondents at baseline and follow-up, respectively. Conclusions: The Slovak translation of the EPDS showed good consistency, convergent validity, and model characteristics. The routine use of EPDS can contribute to improving the quality of postnatal health care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Screening and Treatment of Perinatal Depression and Anxiety)

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Open AccessArticle

Personality Determinants of Success in Men’s Sports in the Light of the Big Five

Paweł Piepiora

and

Zbigniew Piepiora

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6297; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18126297 - 10 Jun 2021

Abstract

The aim of the study is to describe personality profiles and determinants of success in sports in relation to the Big Five Personality Model. In order to achieve this aim, personality profiles of players from various sports disciplines was set against the personality profile of champions—players who are considerably successful in sports competitions. Subsequently, an attempt was made to determine which personality traits significantly determine belonging to the group of champions—and therefore determine success in sport. The participants were men aged between 20 and 29 from the Polish population of sportsmen. A total of 1260 athletes were tested, out of whom 118 were qualified to the champions sample—those athletes had significant sports achievements. The research used the NEO-FFI Personality Questionnaire. Basic descriptive statistics, a series of Student’s t-tests for independent samples using the bootstrapping method, as well as a logistic regression model were performed. In relation to other athletes, champions were characterized by a lower level of neuroticism and a higher level of extraversion, openness to experience, agreeableness, and conscientiousness. An important personality determinant was neuroticism: the lower the level of neuroticism, the greater the probability of an athlete being classified as a champion. There are differences between champions and other athletes in all personality dimensions in terms of the Big Five. Based on the result of the research, it can be stated that personality differences should be seen as a consequence of athletes’ success, rather than as a reason for athletes’ success, based on their age between 20 and 29. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Factors and Their Effect on the Health, Well-Being and Performance of Athletes)