Are work organization interventions effective in preventing or reducing work-related musculoskeletal disorders? A systematic review of the literature

Objectives We sought to determine whether interventions that target work organization or the psychosocial work environment are effective in preventing or reducing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) compared to usual work. Methods We systematically reviewed the 2000–2015 English and French language scientific literature, including studies evaluating the effectiveness of an organizational or psychosocial work intervention on incidence, prevalence or intensity of work-related musculoskeletal pain or disorders in the neck, shoulders, upper limbs and/or back or of work absence due to such problems, among non-sick-listed workers. We excluded rehabilitation and individual-level behavioral interventions and studies with >50% attrition. We analyzed medium- and high-quality studies and synthesized the evidence using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development & Evaluation (GRADE) approach. An analysis of key workplace intervention elements supplemented interpretation of results. Results We identified 884 articles; 28 met selection criteria, yielding 2 high-quality, 10 medium-quality and 16 low-quality studies. There was moderate evidence that supplementary breaks, compared to conventional break schedules, are effective in reducing symptom intensity in various body regions. Evidence was low- to very low-quality for other interventions, primarily due to risk of bias related to study design, high attrition rates, co-interventions, and insensitive indicators. Most interventions lacked key intervention elements, such as work activity analysis and ergonomist guidance during implementation, but the relation of these elements to intervention effectiveness or ineffectiveness remains to be demonstrated. Conclusions Targeting work–rest cycles may reduce WMSD. Better quality studies are needed to allow definitive conclusions to be drawn on the effectiveness of other work organizational or psychosocial interventions to prevent or reduce WMSD. by Stock SR, Nicolakakis N, Vézina N, Vézina M, Gilbert L, Turcot A, Sultan-Taïeb H, Sinden K, Denis M-A, Delga C, Beaucage C. doi:10.5271/sjweh.3694

http://ift.tt/2zCNEV8

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1486: A Comprehensive Approach to Motorcycle-Related Head Injury Prevention: Experiences from the Field in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Uganda

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1486: A Comprehensive Approach to Motorcycle-Related Head Injury Prevention: Experiences from the Field in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Uganda

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121486

Authors: Greig Craft Truong Van Bui Mirjam Sidik Danielle Moore David Ederer Erin Parker Michael Ballesteros David Sleet

Motorcyclists account for 23% of global road traffic deaths and over half of fatalities in countries where motorcycles are the dominant means of transport. Wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by as much as 69% and death by 42%; however, both child and adult helmet use are low in many countries where motorcycles are a primary mode of transportation. In response to the need to increase helmet use by all drivers and their passengers, the Global Helmet Vaccine Initiative (GHVI) was established to increase helmet use in three countries where a substantial portion of road users are motorcyclists and where helmet use is low. The GHVI approach includes five strategies to increase helmet use: targeted programs, helmet access, public awareness, institutional policies, and monitoring and evaluation. The application of GHVI to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Uganda resulted in four key lessons learned. First, motorcyclists are more likely to wear helmets when helmet use is mandated and enforced. Second, programs targeted to at-risk motorcyclists, such as child passengers, combined with improved awareness among the broader population, can result in greater public support needed to encourage action by decision-makers. Third, for broad population-level change, using multiple strategies in tandem can be more effective than using a single strategy alone. Lastly, the successful expansion of GHVI into Cambodia and Uganda has been hindered by the lack of helmet accessibility and affordability, a core component contributing to its success in Vietnam. This paper will review the development of the GHVI five-pillar approach in Vietnam, subsequent efforts to implement the model in Cambodia and Uganda, and lessons learned from these applications to protect motorcycle drivers and their adult and child passengers from injury.

http://ift.tt/2zSaSLk

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1484: Health Challenges in Refugee Reception: Dateline Europe 2016

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1484: Health Challenges in Refugee Reception: Dateline Europe 2016

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121484

Authors: Brad Blitz Alessio d’Angelo Eleonore Kofman Nicola Montagna

The arrival of more than one million migrants, many of them refugees, has proved a major test for the European Union. Although international relief and monitoring agencies have been critical of makeshift camps in Calais and Eidomeni where infectious disease and overcrowding present major health risks, few have examined the nature of the official reception system and its impact on health delivery. Drawing upon research findings from an Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) funded project, this article considers the physical and mental health of asylum–seekers in transit and analyses how the closure of borders has engendered health risks for populations in recognised reception centres in Sicily and in Greece. Data gathered by means of a survey administered in Greece (300) and in Sicily (400), and complemented by in-depth interviews with migrants (45) and key informants (50) including representatives of government offices, humanitarian and relief agencies, NGOs and activist organisations, are presented to offer an analysis of the reception systems in the two frontline states. We note that medical provision varies significantly from one centre to another and that centre managers play a critical role in the transmission of vital information. A key finding is that, given such disparity, the criteria used by the UNHCR to grade health services reception do not address the substantive issue that prevent refugees from accessing health services, even when provided on site. Health provision is not as recorded in UNHCR reporting but rather there are critical gaps between provision, awareness, and access for refugees in reception systems in Sicily and in Greece. This article concludes that there is a great need for more information campaigns to direct refugees to essential services.

http://ift.tt/2iqZ8Ys

De Gruyter to acquire Deutscher Kunstverlag

DKV will be strengthened; brand to be a De Gruyter imprint

http://ift.tt/2irSDVq

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1482: Multi-Source Generation Mechanisms for Low Frequency Noise Induced by Flood Discharge and Energy Dissipation from a High Dam with a Ski-Jump Type Spillway

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1482: Multi-Source Generation Mechanisms for Low Frequency Noise Induced by Flood Discharge and Energy Dissipation from a High Dam with a Ski-Jump Type Spillway

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121482

Authors: Jijian Lian Xiaoqun Wang Wenjiao Zhang Bin Ma Dongming Liu

As excess water is discharged from a high dam, low frequency noise (air pulsation lower than 10 Hz, LFN) is generated and propagated in the surrounding areas, causing environmental hazards such as the vibration of windows and doors and the discomfort of local residents. To study the generation mechanisms and key influencing factors of LFN induced by flood discharge and energy dissipation from a high dam with a ski-jump type spillway, detailed prototype observations and analyses of LFN are carried out. The discharge flow field is simulated and analyzed using a gas-liquid turbulent flow model. The acoustic response characteristics of the air cavity, which is formed between the discharge nappe and dam body, are analyzed using an acoustic numerical model. The multi-sources generation mechanisms are first proposed basing on the prototype observation results, vortex sound model, turbulent flow model and acoustic numerical model. Two kinds of sources of LFN are studied. One comes from the energy dissipation of submerged jets in the plunge pool, the other comes from nappe-cavity coupled vibration. The results of the analyses reveal that the submerged jets in the plunge pool only contribute to an on-site LFN energy of 0–1.0 Hz, and the strong shear layers around the high-velocity submerged jets and wall jet development areas are the main acoustic source regions of LFN in the plunge pool. In addition, the nappe-cavity coupled vibration, which is induced when the discharge nappe vibrates with close frequency to the model frequency of the cavity, can induce on-site LFN energy with wider frequency spectrum energy within 0–4.0 Hz. By contrast, the contribution degrees to LFN energy from two acoustic sources are almost same, while the contribution degree from nappe-cavity coupled vibration is slightly higher.

http://ift.tt/2BByWiP

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1483: Microbial Insight into a Pilot-Scale Enhanced Two-Stage High-Solid Anaerobic Digestion System Treating Waste Activated Sludge

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1483: Microbial Insight into a Pilot-Scale Enhanced Two-Stage High-Solid Anaerobic Digestion System Treating Waste Activated Sludge

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121483

Authors: Jing Wu Zhiping Cao Yuying Hu Xiaolu Wang Guangqi Wang Jiane Zuo Kaijun Wang Yi Qian

High solid anaerobic digestion (HSAD) is a rapidly developed anaerobic digestion technique for treating municipal sludge, and has been widely used in Europe and Asia. Recently, the enhanced HSAD process with thermal treatment showed its advantages in both methane production and VS reduction. However, the understanding of the microbial community is still poor. This study investigated microbial communities in a pilot enhanced two-stage HSAD system that degraded waste activated sludge at 9% solid content. The system employed process “thermal pre-treatment (TPT) at 70 °C, thermophilic anaerobic digestion (TAD), and mesophilic anaerobic digestion (MAD)”. Hydrogenotrophic methanogens Methanothermobacter spp. dominated the system with relative abundance up to about 100% in both TAD and MAD. Syntrophic acetate oxidation (SAO) bacteria were discovered in TAD, and they converted acetate into H2 and CO2 to support hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis. The microbial composition and conversion route of this system are derived from the high solid content and protein content in raw sludge, as well as the operational conditions. This study could facilitate the understanding of the enhanced HSAD process, and is of academic and industrial importance.

http://ift.tt/2kcqNNc

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1478: Partial and Total Annoyance Due to Road Traffic Noise Combined with Aircraft or Railway Noise: Structural Equation Analysis

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1478: Partial and Total Annoyance Due to Road Traffic Noise Combined with Aircraft or Railway Noise: Structural Equation Analysis

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121478

Authors: Laure-Anne Gille Catherine Marquis-Favre Kin-Che Lam

Structural equation modeling was used to analyze partial and total in situ annoyance in combined transportation noise situations. A psychophysical total annoyance model and a perceptual total annoyance model were proposed. Results show a high contribution of Noise exposure and Noise sensitivity to Noise annoyance, as well as a causal relationship between noise annoyance and lower Dwelling satisfaction. Moreover, the Visibility of noise source may increase noise annoyance, even when the visible noise source is different from the annoying source under study. With regards to total annoyance due to road traffic noise combined with railway or aircraft noise, even though in both situations road traffic noise may be considered background noise and the other noise source event noise, the contribution of road traffic noise to the models is greater than railway noise and smaller than aircraft noise. This finding may be explained by the difference in sound pressure levels between these two types of combined exposures or by the aircraft noise level, which may also indicate the city in which the respondents live. Finally, the results highlight the importance of sample size and variable distribution in the database, as different results can be observed depending on the sample or variables considered.

http://ift.tt/2BziuiH

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1481: The Role of China in the UK Relative Imports from Three Selected Trading Regions: The Case of Textile Raw Material Industry

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1481: The Role of China in the UK Relative Imports from Three Selected Trading Regions: The Case of Textile Raw Material Industry

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121481

Authors: Junqian Xu

The UK textile industry was very prosperous in the past but in the 1970s Britain started to import textile materials from abroad. Since 1990, half of its textile materials have been imported from the EEA (European Economic Area), ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and North America countries. Meanwhile, UK imports from China have increased dramatically. Through comparisons, this paper calculates the trade competitiveness index and relative competitive advantages of regions and investigates the impact of Chinese textiles on UK imports from three key free trade regions across the textile sectors in the period 1990–2016 on the basis of United Nation Comtrade Rev. 3. We find that China’s textile prices, product techniques, political trade barriers and even tax system have made a varied impact on the UK’s imports across related sectors in the context of green trade and the strengthening of barriers, which helps us recognize China’s competitiveness in international trading and also provides advice on China’s sustainable development of textile exports.

http://ift.tt/2kcZEKb

De Gruyter übernimmt Deutschen Kunstverlag

DKV soll als Imprint weiterleben und gestärkt werden

http://ift.tt/2ApYOAi

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1485: Microbial Risk Assessment of Tidal−Induced Urban Flooding in Can Tho City (Mekong Delta, Vietnam)

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1485: Microbial Risk Assessment of Tidal−Induced Urban Flooding in Can Tho City (Mekong Delta, Vietnam)

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121485

Authors: Hong Quan Nguyen Thi Thao Nguyen Huynh Assela Pathirana Peter Van der Steen

Public health risks from urban flooding are a global concern. Contaminated floodwater may expose residents living in cities as they are in direct contact with the water. However, the recent literature does not provide much information about this issue, especially for developing countries. In this paper, the health risk due to a flood event occurred in Can Tho City (Mekong Delta, Vietnam) on 7 October 2013 was investigated. The Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment method was used in this study. The data showed that the pathogen concentrations were highly variable during the flood event and exceeded water standards for surface water. Per 10,000 people in contact with the floodwater, we found Salmonella caused the highest number of infections to adults and children (137 and 374, respectively), while E. coli caused 4 and 12 cases, per single event, respectively. The results show that further investigations on health risk related to flood issues in Can Tho City are required, especially because of climate change and urbanization. In addition, activities to raise awareness- about floods, e.g., “living with floods”, in the Mekong Delta should also consider health risk issues.

http://ift.tt/2nholq3

Same-level fall injuries in US workplaces by age group, gender, and industry

Background

As the workforce ages, occupational injuries from falls on the same level will increase. Some industries may be more affected than others.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics to estimate same-level fall injury incidence rates by age group, gender, and industry for four sectors: 1) healthcare and social assistance; 2) manufacturing; 3) retail; and 4) transportation and warehousing. We calculated rate ratios and rate differences by age group and gender.

Results

Same-level fall injury incidence rates increase with age in all four sectors. However, patterns of rate ratios and rate differences vary by age group, gender, and industry. Younger workers, men, and manufacturing workers generally have lower rates.

Conclusions

Variation in incidence rates suggests there are unrealized opportunities to prevent same-level fall injuries. Interventions should be evaluated for their effectiveness at reducing injuries, avoiding gender- or age-discrimination and improving work ability.

http://ift.tt/2j58nuL

Do resources buffer the prospective association of psychosocial work stress with depression? Longitudinal evidence from ageing workers

Objectives There is now convincing evidence that psychosocial work stressors are linked to depression. Few studies, however, have tested if individual resources can buffer the longitudinal effects of psychosocial work stressors on depressive symptoms. This study investigates how two types of resources (internal and external resources) affect the association between psychosocial work stressors and depressive symptoms. Methods Data were obtained from the US Health and Retirement Study, with baseline information on psychosocial work stressors [job strain and effort–reward imbalance (ERI)] and on internal ("high mastery" and "low constraints") and external resources ("private social support") among initially healthy workers. This information was linked to elevated depressive symptoms two years later. The sample includes 5473 observations and we report relative risks (RR) and effect modification on the additive and multiplicative scale. Results Psychosocial stressors and low resources (internal and external) were both independently related to depressive symptoms. Individuals with both, psychosocial stressors and low resources, had the highest risk of developing elevated depressive symptoms (eg, R_{RERI-LowMastery} 3.32, 95% CI 2.49–4.42; RR_{JobStrain-LowMastery} 2.89, 95% CI 2.18–3.84). Yet, based on interaction analyses, only social support from friends buffered the association between work stressors and depressive symptoms. Conclusions Our findings have demonstrated that psychosocial stressors at work are related to mental health, and that in most cases this relationship holds true both for people with high and with low resources. Therefore, there is no clear indication that internal or external resources buffer the association between psychosocial work stressors and depressive symptoms. by Lunau T, Wahrendorf M, Müller A, Wright B, Dragano N. doi:10.5271/sjweh.3693

http://ift.tt/2ikSiUp

Is self-reported time spent sedentary and in physical activity differentially biased by age, gender, body mass index, and low-back pain?

Objectives This study aimed to determine the extent to which age, gender, body mass index (BMI) and low-back pain (LBP) influence bias in self-reported sedentary behavior and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) among blue-collar workers. Methods For 2–4 consecutive working days, 147 workers wore an Actigraph accelerometer on the thigh. Proportional time spent sedentary and in MVPA was determined using the Acti4 software. The same variables were also self-reported in a questionnaire. The difference between self-reported and accelerometer-based sedentary time and MVPA was calculated and linearly regressed against age, gender, BMI, and self-reported LBP intensity as main effects, as well as interaction terms combining each of these factors with objectively measured exposure. Results Workers objectively spent 64% of their time sedentary and 9% in MVPA. On average, self-reports underestimated sedentary time by 1.5% and overestimated MVPA by 5.5%. Workers with mild/no LBP appeared to have the same size of self-report bias in MVPA regardless of how much MVPA they actually had, while workers with high LBP overestimated MVPA to an increasing extent with increasing exposure [interaction: B=0.29, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.05–0.53]. Age was positively associated with self-report bias in sedentary time (B=0.31, 95% CI 0.09–0.54) regardless of actual sedentary time. Conclusions LBP and age, but not BMI and gender, introduced differential bias in self-reported information on sedentary behavior and MVPA among blue-collar workers. This result suggests that bias correction in future studies based on self-reports of sedentary time and MVPA should account for LBP and age. by Gupta N, Heiden M, Mathiassen SE, Holtermann A. doi:10.5271/sjweh.3692

http://ift.tt/2ikSdA5

Frankophonie im Plural

 

http://ift.tt/2ilR9f8

"Manuel des francophonies" published by De Gruyter

 

http://ift.tt/2AkVw17

Plurielles Francophonies

 

http://ift.tt/2ijuxvW

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1476: Methods for Involving Older People in Health Research—A Review of the Literature

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1476: Methods for Involving Older People in Health Research—A Review of the Literature

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121476

Authors: Imke Schilling Ansgar Gerhardus

Demographic change has increased the need for research on healthcare for older people. Recently there has been a growing awareness that research might benefit from actively involving patients and the public in study design and conduct. Besides empowering patients and democratizing research, involvement enhances the quality of research and the development of equitable healthcare solutions. Little is known about how to involve older people. This review aims to support scientists intending to involve older people in health research by systematically identifying and describing studies involving older people and analyzing associated facilitators and challenges. Old people were operationalized as people living with old-age-related conditions. We conducted a systematic search in PubMed, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), and Cochrane library for the period 2007 to July 2017 and also manually searched reference lists of the nine retrieved articles and other relevant sources. While involvement of older people in research is feasible, specific challenges related to this group need be taken into account. Strategies to enhance effective involvement comprise a thoughtful choice of location, use of visualization and accessible communication, building good relationships and flexible approaches. Further research is needed on the involvement of people in care homes or with vision, hearing or mobility limitations.

http://ift.tt/2AjbjNZ

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1475: Risk Assessment and Source Identification of 17 Metals and Metalloids on Soils from the Half-Century Old Tungsten Mining Areas in Lianhuashan, Southern China

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1475: Risk Assessment and Source Identification of 17 Metals and Metalloids on Soils from the Half-Century Old Tungsten Mining Areas in Lianhuashan, Southern China

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121475

Authors: Li Guo Weituo Zhao Xiaowen Gu Xinyun Zhao Juan Chen Shenggao Cheng

Background: Mining activities always emit metal(loid)s into the surrounding environment, where their accumulation in the soil may pose risks and hazards to humans and ecosystems. Objective: This paper aims to determine of the type, source, chemical form, fate and transport, and accurate risk assessment of 17 metal(loid) contaminants including As, Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn, Cr, Ag, B, Bi, Co, Mo, Sb, Ti, V, W and Sn in the soils collected from an abandoned tungsten mining area, and to guide the implementing of appropriate remediation strategies. Methods: Contamination factors (CFs) and integrated pollution indexes (IPIs) and enrichment factors (EFs) were used to assess their ecological risk and the sources were identified by using multivariate statistics analysis, spatial distribution investigation and correlation matrix. Results: The IPI and EF values indicated the soils in the mine site and the closest downstream one were extremely disturbed by metal(loid)s such as As, Bi, W, B, Cu, Pb and Sn, which were emitted from the mining wastes and acid drainages and delivered by the runoff and human activities. Arsenic contamination was detected in nine sites with the highest CF values at 24.70 next to the mining site. The Cd contamination scattered in the paddy soils around the resident areas with higher fraction of bioavailable forms, primarily associated with intense application of phosphorus fertilizer. The lithogenic elements V, Ti, Ag, Ni, Sb, Mo exhibit low contamination in all sampling points and their distribution were depended on the soil texture and pedogenesis process. Conclusions: The long term historical mining activities have caused severe As contamination and higher enrichment of the other elements of orebody in the local soils. The appropriate remediation treatment approach should be proposed to reduce the bioavailability of Cd in the paddy soils and to immobilize As to reclaim the soils around the mining site. Furthermore, alternative fertilizing way and irrigating water sources are urgencies to reduce the input of Cd and As into the local soils effectively.

http://ift.tt/2jxp6X0

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1473: Are Changes in Neighbourhood Perceptions Associated with Changes in Self-Rated Mental Health in Adults? A 13-Year Repeat Cross-Sectional Study, UK

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1473: Are Changes in Neighbourhood Perceptions Associated with Changes in Self-Rated Mental Health in Adults? A 13-Year Repeat Cross-Sectional Study, UK

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121473

Authors: Jonathan Olsen Ruth Dundas Anne Ellaway

The aim of this study was to examine changes in neighbourhood perceptions on self-rated mental health problems over time, and to explore demographic, geographic and socio-economic factors as determinants of increased or decreased anxiety and depression symptoms. We conducted a repeat cross-sectional study of individuals (N: 4480) living in the same areas of west central Scotland in 1997 and 2010. Individuals were asked to complete a questionnaire at both time-points, containing 14 questions relating to neighbourhood perceptions and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). A three-level linear regression model was fitted to HADS scores and changes in neighbourhood perceptions over time; controlling for a number of individual and area-level variables. Overall, area-level mean HADS scores decreased from 1997 to 2010. When adjusted for individual and area-level variables, this decrease did not remain for HADS anxiety. Applying an overall 14-scale neighbourhood perception measure, worsening neighbourhood perceptions were associated with small increases in depression (0.04, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.01 to 0.07) and anxiety (0.04, 95% CI 0.00 to 0.08) scores over time. This highlights a need for local and national policy to target areas where neighbourhood characteristics are substantially deteriorating in order to ensure the mental health of individuals does not worsen.

http://ift.tt/2AhLcXI

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1474: Effect of CaO on NOx Reduction by Selective Non-Catalytic Reduction under Variable Gas Compositions in a Simulated Cement Precalciner Atmosphere

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1474: Effect of CaO on NOx Reduction by Selective Non-Catalytic Reduction under Variable Gas Compositions in a Simulated Cement Precalciner Atmosphere

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121474

Authors: Ye Sun Weiyi Fan Tianle Zhu Xiaowei Hong

High-concentration CaO particles and gas compositions have a significant influence on NOx reduction by selective non-catalytic reduction (SNCR) in cement precalciners. The effect of gas composition on NOx reduction by SNCR with NH3 was studied in a cement precalciner atmosphere with and without CaO at 700–1100 °C. It was found that CaO significantly lowers NOx reduction efficiency between 750 °C and 1000 °C, which is attributed to the catalytic oxidation of NH3 to NO. Although increasing NH3 concentration was advantageous to NOx reduction, the existence of CaO led to the opposite result at 750–900 °C. Adding H2O can suppress the negative effect of CaO on NOx reduction. Decreasing O2 content from 10% to 1% shifts the temperature range in which CaO has a significant effect from 750–1000 °C to 800–1050 °C. CO has a variety of influences on the CaO effect under different experimental conditions. The influences of NH3, H2O, O2, and CO on the effect of CaO can be attributed to the impacts of the gas compositions on gas-phase NH3 conversion, gas-solid catalytic NH3 oxidation, or both processes. A proposed pathway for the effect of gas compositions on NOx reduction in CaO-containing SNCR process was developed that well predicted the CaO-containing SNCR process.

http://ift.tt/2Bln1o8

Pschyrembel und "Was hab‘ ich?" kooperieren

This press release is only available in German.

http://ift.tt/2nfmv95

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1472: The Moderating Effects of Students’ Personality Traits on Pro-Environmental Behavioral Intentions in Response to Climate Change

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1472: The Moderating Effects of Students’ Personality Traits on Pro-Environmental Behavioral Intentions in Response to Climate Change

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121472

Authors: Tai-Yi Yu Tai-Kuei Yu

This study developed a model that examined the relationship between undergraduate students’ beliefs, norms and pro-environment behavioral intentions in the context of global climate change (GCC). The model was further evaluated to determine whether latent variables, such as sustainability value, environmental concern, social norms, perceived risk, pro-environmental attitude, as defined by the theory of planned behavior and value-belief-norm theory, significantly influenced students’ intentions towards pro-environmental behavior. The research model was empirically tested using data collected form 275 undergraduate students. Empirical results found support for four interaction effects of personality traits and the related latent variables of environmental attitude, including sustainability value, social norms, environmental concern and perceived risk. The impact of undergraduate students’ environmental attitudes was moderated by personality traits. The findings of this research offer policy makers and enterprises better understandings of undergraduate students’ attitudes and behavioral intentions towards GCC and promote the visibility of this issue.

http://ift.tt/2iZzrLS

Total workload and recovery in relation to worktime reduction: a randomised controlled intervention study with time-use data

Objectives

A 25% reduction of weekly work hours for full-time employees has been shown to improve sleep and alertness and reduce stress during both workdays and days off. The aim of the present study was to investigate how employees use their time during such an intervention: does total workload (paid and non-paid work) decrease, and recovery time increase, when work hours are reduced?

Methods

Full-time employees within the public sector (n=636; 75% women) were randomised into intervention group and control group. The intervention group (n=370) reduced worktime to 75% with preserved salary during 18 months. Data were collected at baseline, after 9 months and 18 months. Time-use was reported every half-hour daily between 06:00 and 01:00 during 1 week at each data collection. Data were analysed with multilevel mixed modelling.

Results

Compared with the control group, the intervention group increased the time spent on domestic work and relaxing hobby activities during workdays when worktime was reduced (P≤0.001). On days off, more time was spent in free-time activities (P=0.003). Total workload decreased (–65 min) and time spent in recovery activities increased on workdays (+53 min). The pattern of findings was similar in subgroups defined by gender, family status and job situation.

Conclusions

A worktime reduction of 25% for full-time workers resulted in decreased total workload and an increase of time spent in recovery activities, which is in line with the suggestion that worktime reduction may be beneficial for long-term health and stress.

http://ift.tt/2Bjh0bq

Pschyrembel und washabich.de kooperieren

This press release is only available in German.

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IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1468: Oral Mucositis in Pediatric Patients in Treatment for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1468: Oral Mucositis in Pediatric Patients in Treatment for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121468

Authors: Isabella Ribeiro Rebecca Limeira Ricardo Dias de Castro Paulo Ferreti Bonan Ana Valença

Oral mucositis in oncologic patients is the most undesirable event of the chemotherapeutic treatment. This study aimed to identify damage to the oral cavity resulting from chemotherapy in pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). This is a prospective study with a sample of 42 children and adolescents evaluated for 10 consecutive weeks after diagnosis. The modified Oral Assessment Guide (OAG) was used, and data were analyzed by Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient (α = 5%). Changes to the normal lips and saliva were positively related to an increase in the OAG score during all 10 weeks of evaluation. Alterations to the labial mucosa were correlated with an increase in the OAG score from the 2nd to 10th week, which was also found for changes in the tongue and in the swallowing function in Weeks 1, 6, 8, 9, and 10 and for gum changes from the 5th to 7th week. No significant vocal changes were correlated with the total OAG score at any point during the monitoring period. Changes in lips, cheek and/or palatal mucosa, labial mucosa, and gum areas and in swallowing function were positively correlated with an increase in the severity of oral mucositis in patients with ALL after beginning chemotherapeutic treatment.

http://ift.tt/2AcHZrZ

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1467: Contextual Exploration of a New Family Caregiver Support Concept for Geriatric Settings Using a Participatory Health Research Strategy

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1467: Contextual Exploration of a New Family Caregiver Support Concept for Geriatric Settings Using a Participatory Health Research Strategy

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121467

Authors: Elisabeth Dorant Theresia Krieger

Family caregivers are the backbone of the long-term care support system within the home environment. Comprehensive caregiver support programs require collaboration and coordination within the system. A new public health concept, Vade Mecum, aims to harmonize and professionalize family caregiver support initiatives in geriatric care settings in the Euregion Maas-Rhine. Exploration of the new concept recently started in Germany to gain in-depth insight into current support and the needs of the geriatric care team and family caregivers. Within the context of an exploratory qualitative study, a participatory health research (PHR) strategy was applied to make optimal use of experience and knowledge from the system. Care professionals, engaged as co-researchers, were responsible for decisions about the research question, data collection methods and procedures of engaging family caregivers. A research team representing all professions within the geriatric department was formed. Research objectives were formulated and an appropriate mix of qualitative data collection methods consisting of interviews, focus groups and story-telling was chosen. Needs and expectations of the new concept, and practical solutions for involving family caregivers were discussed. A PHR strategy resulted in initiating a qualitative study in a geriatric care setting carried out by care professionals from the department. Knowledge was generated in a co-creative manner, and co-researchers were empowered. A comprehensive understanding of the system serves as a starting point for advancement of the new family caregiver concept.

http://ift.tt/2jt9J1s

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1470: Effects of Group Counseling Programs, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Sports Intervention on Internet Addiction in East Asia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1470: Effects of Group Counseling Programs, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Sports Intervention on Internet Addiction in East Asia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121470

Authors: Jun Liu Jing Nie Yafeng Wang

To evaluate the effects of group counseling programs, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and sports intervention on Internet addiction (IA), a systematic search in ten databases was performed to identify eligible studies without language restrictions up to January 2017. A meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis (TSA) was performed, respectively. A total of 58 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which included 2871 participants, were incorporated into our meta-analysis. The results showed that group counseling programs, CBT, and sports intervention could significantly reduce IA levels (group counseling program: standardized mean difference (SMD), −1.37; 95% confidence interval (CI), −1.89 to −0.85; CBT: SMD, −1.88; 95% CI, −2.53 to −1.23; sports intervention: SMD, −1.70; 95% CI, −2.14 to −1.26). For group counseling programs, this treatment was more effective in four dimensions of IA, including time management, interpersonal and health issues, tolerance, and compulsive Internet use. For CBT, this treatment yielded a positive change in depression, anxiousness, aggressiveness, somatization, social insecurity, phobic anxiety, paranoid ideation, and psychoticism. For sports intervention, the significant effects were also observed in all dimensions of the IA scale. Each of group counseling programs, cognitive behavioral therapy, and sports intervention had a significant effect on IA and psychopathological symptoms. Sports intervention could improve withdrawal symptoms especially.

http://ift.tt/2Ad5t0m

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1471: Characterization and Computation of Yb/TiO2 and Its Photocatalytic Degradation with Benzohydroxamic Acid

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1471: Characterization and Computation of Yb/TiO2 and Its Photocatalytic Degradation with Benzohydroxamic Acid

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121471

Authors: Xianping Luo Sipin Zhu Junyu Wang Chunying Wang Min Wu

Yb-doped TiO2 (Yb/TiO2) compositions were synthesized by sol-gel method, and the prepared materials were characterized by X-ray Diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV-visible diffuse-reflectance spectrum (UV-Vis DRS), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), and N2 adsorption. A beneficiation reagent of benzohydroxamic acid (BHA) was used to test the photocatalytic activity of Yb/TiO2. The characterizations indicate that the doping of Yb could inhibit the crystal growth of TiO2, enhance the specific surface area, increase the binding energy of Ti2p, and also slightly expand the adsorption ranges to visible light. Furthermore, the computation of band structure also indicates that Yb-doped TiO2 could make the forbidden band narrower than pure anatase TiO2, which presents a red shift in the absorption spectrum. As a result of the photodegradation experiment on BHA, Yb/TiO2 (0.50% in mass) sintered at 450 °C displayed the highest catalytic activity for BHA when compared with pure TiO2 or other doped Yb/TiO2 compositions, and more than 89.2% of the total organic carbon was removed after 120 min. Almost all anions, including Cl−, HCO3−, NO3−, and SO42−, inhibited the degradation of BHA by Yb/TiO2, and their inhibition effects followed the order of HCO3− > NO3− > SO42− > Cl−. Cations of Na+, K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+ displayed a slight suppressing effect due to the impact of Cl− coexisting in the solution. In addition, Yb/TiO2 maintained a high photocatalytic ability with respect to BHA after four runs. It is hypothesized that ·OH is one of the main species involved in the photodegradation of BHA, and the mutual transformation of Yb3+ and Yb2+ could promote the separation of electron-hole pairs.

http://ift.tt/2hYYY6Z

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1462: Indigenous Values and Health Systems Stewardship in Circumpolar Countries

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1462: Indigenous Values and Health Systems Stewardship in Circumpolar Countries

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121462

Authors: Susan Chatwood Francois Paulette G. Baker Astrid Eriksen Ketil Hansen Heidi Eriksen Vanessa Hiratsuka Josée Lavoie Wendy Lou Ian Mauro James Orbinski Nathalie Pambrun Hanna Retallack Adalsteinn Brown

Circumpolar regions, and the nations within which they reside, have recently gained international attention because of shared and pressing public policy issues such as climate change, resource development, endangered wildlife and sovereignty disputes. In a call for national and circumpolar action on shared areas of concern, the Arctic states health ministers recently met and signed a declaration that identified shared priorities for international cooperation. Among the areas for collaboration raised, the declaration highlighted the importance of enhancing intercultural understanding, promoting culturally appropriate health care delivery and strengthening circumpolar collaboration in culturally appropriate health care delivery. This paper responds to the opportunity for further study to fully understand indigenous values and contexts, and presents these as they may apply to a framework that will support international comparisons and systems improvements within circumpolar regions. We explored the value base of indigenous peoples and provide considerations on how these values might interface with national values, health systems values and value bases between indigenous nations particularly in the context of health system policy-making that is inevitably shared between indigenous communities and jurisdictional or federal governments. Through a mixed methods nominal consensus process, nine values were identified and described: humanity, cultural responsiveness, teaching, nourishment, community voice, kinship, respect, holism and empowerment.

http://ift.tt/2ianK7C

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1466: Mixture Toxicity of Bensulfuron-Methyl and Acetochlor to Red Swamp Crayfish (Procambarus clarkii): Behavioral, Morphological and Histological Effects

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1466: Mixture Toxicity of Bensulfuron-Methyl and Acetochlor to Red Swamp Crayfish (Procambarus clarkii): Behavioral, Morphological and Histological Effects

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121466

Authors: Jixin Yu Elvis Xu Yan Ren Shiyu Jin Tanglin Zhang Jiashou Liu Zhongjie Li

The mixture of bensulfuron-methyl and acetochlor (MBA) has been widely applied as a rice herbicide in China, but the mixture toxicity of MBA to aquatic organisms is largely unknown. The current study aims to investigate the acute effects of MBA to juvenile red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii. Firstly, a 96 h semi-static exposure was conducted to determine the Lethal Concentration 50 (LC50) values at 24, 48, 72 and 96 h, as well as to assess the behavioral and morphological effects. A second 96 h exposure was conducted at an MBA concentration of 50% of the 96 h LC50 (72.62 mg/L) to assess the histological changes in the gill, perigastric organ, muscle, heart, stomach, and midgut. The results showed that MBA exhibited low acute toxicity with the 24, 48, 72 and 96 h LC50 values of 191.25 (179.37–215.75), 166.81 (159.49–176.55), 154.30 (148.36–160.59) and 145.24 (138.94–151.27) mg/L, respectively. MBA-exposed crayfish showed body jerk, belly arch, equilibrium loss, body and appendage sway, and lethargy; and the dead crayfish showed dark gray or grayish-white body color and separated cephalothorax and abdomen. At 72.62 mg/L, MBA exposure caused significant histopathological alterations, mainly including the cuticular and epithelial degeneration of all the gills; atrophy of tubule lumina and cellular vacuolation of the perigastric organs (61.15 ± 9.90% of the tubules showed lesions); epithelial hyperplasia (48.40 ± 9.00%), myocardial fibers and epithelial cell lysis (17.30 ± 2.01%), and hemocytic infiltration of the hearts; cuticular swelling (15.82 ± 2.98%) and vacuolate connective tissue (11.30 ± 2.47%) of the stomachs; atrophied bladder cell and fragmented longitudinal muscles (95.23 ± 4.77%) of the midguts; and slight myofibers fragmentation and lysis (7.37 ± 0.53%) of the abdominal muscles. Our results indicate that MBA can cause behavioral, morphological and histopathological effects on juvenile P. clarkii at relatively high concentrations, but its acute toxicity is low compared with many other common herbicides.

http://ift.tt/2ianS76

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1463: An Overview of GIS-Based Modeling and Assessment of Mining-Induced Hazards: Soil, Water, and Forest

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1463: An Overview of GIS-Based Modeling and Assessment of Mining-Induced Hazards: Soil, Water, and Forest

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121463

Authors: Jangwon Suh Sung-Min Kim Huiuk Yi Yosoon Choi

In this study, current geographic information system (GIS)-based methods and their application for the modeling and assessment of mining-induced hazards were reviewed. Various types of mining-induced hazard, including soil contamination, soil erosion, water pollution, and deforestation were considered in the discussion of the strength and role of GIS as a viable problem-solving tool in relation to mining-induced hazards. The various types of mining-induced hazard were classified into two or three subtopics according to the steps involved in the reclamation procedure, or elements of the hazard of interest. Because GIS is appropriated for the handling of geospatial data in relation to mining-induced hazards, the application and feasibility of exploiting GIS-based modeling and assessment of mining-induced hazards within the mining industry could be expanded further.

http://ift.tt/2ianzcs

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1464: Joint Decision-Making and the Coordination of a Sustainable Supply Chain in the Context of Carbon Tax Regulation and Fairness Concerns

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1464: Joint Decision-Making and the Coordination of a Sustainable Supply Chain in the Context of Carbon Tax Regulation and Fairness Concerns

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121464

Authors: Zhi Liu Xiao-Xue Zheng Ben-Gang Gong Yun-Miao Gui

Carbon tax regulation and consumers’ low-carbon preference act as incentives for firms to abate emissions. Manufacturers can improve product sustainability and retailers can strengthen the promotion of low-carbon products as part of such abatement. Current incomplete rationality also affects product sustainability and low-carbon promotion level. In this context, we consider a supply chain with a manufacturer and a retailer and investigate the impacts of the manufacturer’s and the retailer’s fairness concerns on their production sustainability level, low-carbon promotion level and profitability. We also explore the coordination contract. The results show that the manufacturer’s and the retailer’s fairness concerns decrease their product sustainability and low-carbon promotion level, together with the profits of the system and the manufacturer. With regard to the retailer’s fairness concern, the product sustainability level and the manufacturer’s profit are lower; moreover, the low-carbon promotion level and the profits of the supply chain and the retailer are higher. A revenue-sharing contract can coordinate the supply chain perfectly; however, members’ fairness concerns increase the difficulty of coordination. Finally, the numerical results reveal that carbon tax regulation can encourage the manufacturer to enhance the product sustainability level. Further, the impacts on the low-carbon promotion level and firms’ profitability are related to the cost coefficients of product sustainability.

http://ift.tt/2ia4mI7

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1465: Depressive Symptom and Related Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study of Korean Female Workers Working at Traditional Markets

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1465: Depressive Symptom and Related Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study of Korean Female Workers Working at Traditional Markets

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121465

Authors: Won Ju Hwang Jin Ah Kim Sally H. Rankin

Background: Depression is one of the psychiatric diseases with a high prevalence rate, globally, and reportedly more prevalent among women than among men. Especially, women workers working at traditional markets are in depressive conditions without occupational health services. The purpose of this study is to investigate factors having a significant effect on the depressive symptoms of women workers at traditional markets in South Korea. Methods: A cross-sectional study was used and subjects for the present study were 500 female workers in three selected representative traditional marketplaces in South Korea. Results: The results of hierarchical regression analysis indicated that increased BMI (β = 0.297, p = 0.017), poor nutritional status (β = 0.596, p < 0.001), street vendor status (β = 2.589, p = 0.001), job stress (β = 0.491, p < 0.001), lower back pain (β = 0.377, p = 0.011), lower self-efficacy (β = −0.368, p = 0.002) and diminished family function (β = −0.633, p = 0.001) affected workers’ depressive symptoms. The explanatory power of these variables was 38.5%. Conclusions: Based on these results, future research should focus on incorporating theses significant factors into effective interventions designed to decrease depressive symptoms in this population. Moreover, this study will increase interest in occupational health nursing, particularly in relation to vulnerable social groups, and expand the scope of practice in the field.

http://ift.tt/2Aej0m2

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1461: Investigation of Health Effects According to the Exposure of Low Concentration Arsenic Contaminated Ground Water

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1461: Investigation of Health Effects According to the Exposure of Low Concentration Arsenic Contaminated Ground Water

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121461

Authors: Young-seoub Hong Byeong-jin Ye Yu-mi Kim Byoung-gwon Kim Gyeong-hui Kang Jeong-jin Kim Ki-hoon Song Young-hun Kim Jeong-wook Seo

Recent epidemiological studies have reported adverse health effects, including skin cancer, due to low concentrations of arsenic via drinking water. We conducted a study to assess whether low arsenic contaminated ground water affected health of the residents who consumed it. For precise biomonitoring results, the inorganic (trivalent arsenite (As III) and pentavalent arsenate (As V)) and organic forms (monomethylarsonate (MMA) and dimethylarsinate (DMA)) of arsenic were separately quantified by combining high-performance liquid chromatography and inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy from urine samples. In conclusion, urinary As III, As V, MMA, and hair arsenic concentrations were significantly higher in residents who consumed arsenic contaminated ground water than control participants who consumed tap water. But, most health screening results did not show a statistically significant difference between exposed and control subjects. We presume that the elevated arsenic concentrations may not be sufficient to cause detectable health effects. Consumption of arsenic contaminated ground water could result in elevated urinary organic and inorganic arsenic concentrations. We recommend immediate discontinuation of ground water supply in this area for the safety of the residents.

http://ift.tt/2n7OCah

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1460: Insecticidal Effects of Plasma Treated Water

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1460: Insecticidal Effects of Plasma Treated Water

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121460

Authors: Lars ten Bosch Robert Köhler Rinat Ortmann Stephan Wieneke Wolfgang Viöl

The efficacy of plasma-treated tap water (PTW) for the possible treatment of a mealybug (Planococcus citri) infestation was studied under laboratory conditions. Mealybugs growing on Nerium oleander have been treated using PTW after being transferred to Petri dishes, thus avoiding possible buffering effects that might occur in an in-situ study. When treating tap water with a dielectric barrier discharge for several minutes (1, 3, 5 and 10 min) a distinct acidification of the water can be determined, resulting in a pH value of 1.8 after 10 min treatment. The efficacies of the treated tap water samples were compared to the efficacies achieved using classically acidified water. The classical acidification of tap water was carried out using nitric acid and hydrochloric acid to see any possible influences of the salt of the acid in question. The application of PTW revealed high mortality rates of approx. 90% after an observation period of 24 h. PTW appears promising for the treatment of smaller plant stock and commodities as produced by small scale farmers or in greenhouses as an environmentally friendly substitute or supplement to conventional pesticides.

http://ift.tt/2zHVAst

Violence against emergency medical services personnel: A systematic review of the literature

Background

Violence against emergency medical services (EMS) personnel is a growing concern. The aim of this systematic review is to synthesize the current literature on violence against EMS personnel.

Methods

We examined literature from 2000 to 2016. Eligibility criteria included English-language, peer-reviewed studies of EMS personnel that described violence or assaults. Sixteen searches identified 2655 studies; 25 studies from nine countries met the inclusion criteria.

Results

The evidence from this review demonstrates that violence is a common risk for EMS personnel. We identified three critical topic areas: changes in risk over time, economic impact of violence and, outcomes of risk-reduction interventions. There is a lack of peer reviewed research of interventions, with the result that current intervention programs have no reliable evidence base.

Conclusions

EMS leaders and personnel should work together with researchers to design, implement, evaluate and publish intervention studies designed to mitigate risks of violence to EMS personnel.

http://ift.tt/2Bs6LTg

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1500: Do Cervical Cancer Patients Diagnosed with Opportunistic Screening Live Longer? An Arkhangelsk Cancer Registry Study

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1500: Do Cervical Cancer Patients Diagnosed with Opportunistic Screening Live Longer? An Arkhangelsk Cancer Registry Study

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121500

Authors: Elena Roik Evert Nieboer Olga Kharkova Andrej Grjibovski Vitaly Postoev Jon Odland

The aim of the current study was to compare cervical cancer (СС) patients diagnosed with and without screening in terms of: (i) sociodemographic and clinical characteristics; (ii) factors associated with survival; and (iii), and levels of risk. A registry-based study was conducted using data from the Arkhangelsk Cancer Registry. It included women with newly diagnosed malignant neoplasm of the uterine cervix during the period of 1 January 2005 to 11 November 2016 (N = 1548). The Kaplan-Meier method, the log-rank test, and Cox regression were applied. Most participants who were diagnosed by screening were at stage I and died less frequently from CC than those diagnosed without screening. The latter group was also diagnosed with СС at a younger age and died younger. Younger individuals and urban residents diagnosed with stage I and II, squamous cell carcinoma had longer survival times. Cox regression modeling indicated that the hazard ratio for death among women with CC diagnosed without screening was 1.61 (unadjusted) and 1.37 (adjusted). CC diagnosed by screening, cancer stage, patient residence, histological tumor type, and age at diagnosis were independent prognostic variables of longer survival time with CC. Diagnosis of CC made within a screening program improved survival.

http://ift.tt/2zCOchP

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1459: Mental Health of the Prison Medical Workers (PMWs) and Influencing Factors in Jiangxi, China

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1459: Mental Health of the Prison Medical Workers (PMWs) and Influencing Factors in Jiangxi, China

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121459

Authors: Xiaojun Liu Dongdong Jiang Zhaoxun Hou Meikun He Yuanan Lu Zongfu Mao

Prison medical workers (PMWs) are critically important, but they are also vulnerable to psychological problems. Currently, there is no study on examining PMWs’ mental health conditions and possible influencing factors in China. Hence, we conducted this cross-sectional survey, aiming to understand the mental health status of the PMWs and related impact factors in Jiangxi province of China. We employed the Chinese version of the Symptom Checklist-90-R (SCL-90-R) to assess the mental disorders and psychological health conditions of PMWs in Jiangxi. The t tests were used to compare the differences for the average score of SCL-90-R between the Chinese general population and targeted PMWs of this study. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the main factors associated with overall detection rate of PMWs’ psychological health conditions. The scores of four dimensions (somatization, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, anxiety, and paranoid ideation) were significantly higher than the Chinese national norm, and the total positive rate was 49.09% among the PMWs. Gender, marital status, age, and length of employment are identified to be the most significant predictors to affect PMWs’ mental health. Positive correlations between each of the nine dimensions of the SCL-90-R have been verified. This study demonstrated for the first time that PMWs are facing mental health risk and suffering serious psychological problems with psychopathology symptoms, which has become a growing concern in China. Our current findings suggest a need for more in-depth studies on this subject going forward to validate our conclusions and also to identify more impact factors, since such studies and knowledge of PMWs’ mental health and influencing factors are very limited in China.

http://ift.tt/2iRP5sx

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1454: School Gardens: A Qualitative Study on Implementation Practices

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1454: School Gardens: A Qualitative Study on Implementation Practices

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121454

Authors: Nele Huys Katrien De Cocker Marieke De Craemer Marleen Roesbeke Greet Cardon Sara De Lepeleere

School gardens have beneficial effects on children’s dietary behaviors but information on its implementation is scarce. The current study aimed to gain insight in implementation practices of school gardens and in perceptions of key members and children towards a school garden. We conducted twelve interviews involving 14 key members and five focus groups with 38 children from fifth to sixth grade (10–13 years old) in four primary schools in Ghent (Flanders, Belgium). We analyzed the interviews and focus groups in NVivo, using thematic analysis. School gardens were mainly initiated to involve children in nature, not to improve vegetable consumption. Participants were positive about having a school garden, experienced facilitating factors (e.g., adaptability of the garden, having a person responsible for the garden), but also various barriers (e.g., difficulties with startup, maintenance during summer holidays and integration in the school curriculum) and suggested some solutions (e.g., involving external organizations and parents, expanding the garden) and motivating factors for children (e.g., colorful plants, use of gloves). In order to improve implementation and to contribute to children’s health, future school gardening projects should take the recommendations of key members and children into account.

http://ift.tt/2BaEzTU

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1457: Banning Asbestos in New Zealand, 1936–2016, an 80-Year Long Saga

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1457: Banning Asbestos in New Zealand, 1936–2016, an 80-Year Long Saga

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121457

Authors: William Ivan Glass Rob Armstrong Grace Chen

The banning by the New Zealand Government of the import and export of asbestos-containing products resulted from the interplay of a number of factors. At a personal level, there were the actions of the asbestos sufferers, their families and support groups. At the political level, there were the activities of progressive trade union groups representing the hazardous trades, such as labourers, construction workers and demolition workers, and at a Government level, there was a positive response to these public health pressures. The Prohibition Order 2016 concerning Imports and Exports (asbestos-containing products) was the outcome of this 80-year long saga.

http://ift.tt/2iPvRDT

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1458: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Human Skin Diseases Due to Particulate Matter

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1458: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Human Skin Diseases Due to Particulate Matter

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121458

Authors: Le Ngoc Duckshin Park Yongil Lee Young-Chul Lee

This study investigated the effects of particulate matter (PM) on human skin diseases by conducting a systematic review of existing literature and performing a meta-analysis. It considered articles reporting an original effect of PM on human skin. From among 918 articles identified, 13 articles were included for further consideration after manual screening of the articles resulted in the exclusion of articles that did not contain data, review articles, editorials, and also articles in languages other than English. Random-effects models and forest plots were used to estimate the effect of PM on the skin by Meta-Disc analysis. According to people’s reports of exposure and negative skin effects (atopic dermatitis (AD), eczema, and skin aging, etc.) due to air pollution, the summary relative risk (odds ratio) of PM10 was determined to be 0.99 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.89–1.11) whereas PM2.5 was determined to be 1.04 (95% CI 0.96–1.12). Simultaneously, there was a different extent of impact between PM10 and PM2.5 on atopic dermatitis (AD) for those of young age: the odds ratio of PM10 and PM2.5 were 0.96 (95% CI 0.83–1.11; I2 = 62.7%) and 1.05 (95% CI 0.95–1.16; I2 = 46%), respectively. Furthermore, the results suggest an estimated increase of disease incidence per 10 μg/m3 PM of 1.01% (0.08–2.05) due to PM10 and 1.60% (0.45–2.82) due to PM2.5. Following the results, PM10 and PM2.5 are associated with increased risks of human skin diseases, especially AD, whose risk is higher in infants and school children. With its smaller size and a high concentration of metals, PM2.5 is more closely related to AD in younger people, compared to PM10.

http://ift.tt/2Bn0uZ6

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1456: Urinary Phthalate Concentrations in Mothers and Their Children in Ireland: Results of the DEMOCOPHES Human Biomonitoring Study

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1456: Urinary Phthalate Concentrations in Mothers and Their Children in Ireland: Results of the DEMOCOPHES Human Biomonitoring Study

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121456

Authors: Elizabeth Cullen David Evans Chris Griffin Padraig Burke Rory Mannion Damien Burns Andrew Flanagan Ann Kellegher Greet Schoeters Eva Govarts Pierre Biot Ludwine Casteleyn Argelia Castaño Marike Kolossa-Gehring Marta Esteban Gerda Schwedler Holger Koch Jürgen Angerer Lisbeth Knudsen Reinhard Joas Anke Joas Birgit Dumez Ovnair Sepai Karen Exley Dominique Aerts

Background: Phthalates are chemicals which are widespread in the environment. Although the impacts on health of such exposure are unclear, there is evidence of a possible impact on the incidence of a diverse range of diseases. Monitoring of human exposure to phthalates is therefore important. This study aimed to determine the extent of phthalate exposure among mothers and their children in both rural and urban areas in Ireland, and to identify factors associated with elevated concentrations. It formed part of the ‘Demonstration of a study to Co-ordinate and Perform Human Biomonitoring on a European Scale’ (DEMOCOPHES) pilot biomonitoring study. Methods: the concentration of phthalate metabolites were determined from a convenience sample of 120 mother/child pairs. The median age of the children was 8 years. A questionnaire was used to collect information regarding lifestyle and environmental conditions of the children and mothers. Rigorous quality assurance within DEMOCOPHES guaranteed the accuracy and international comparability of results. Results: Phthalate metabolites were detected in all of the samples from both children and mothers. Concentrations were significantly higher in respondents from families with lower educational attainment and in those exposed to such items as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), fast food and personal care products (PCP). Conclusions: The study demonstrates that human biomonitoring for assessing exposure to phthalates can be undertaken in Ireland and that the exposure of the population is widespread. Further work will be necessary before the consequences of this exposure are understood.

http://ift.tt/2iPCUfF

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1455: Integrated Management of Residential Indoor Air Quality: A Call for Stakeholders in a Changing Climate

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1455: Integrated Management of Residential Indoor Air Quality: A Call for Stakeholders in a Changing Climate

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121455

Authors: Marie-Eve Levasseur Patrick Poulin Céline Campagna Jean-Marc Leclerc

A paradigm change in the management of environmental health issues has been observed in recent years: instead of managing specific risks individually, a holistic vision of environmental problems would assure sustainable solutions. However, concrete actions that could help translate these recommendations into interventions are lacking. This review presents the relevance of using an integrated indoor air quality management approach to ensure occupant health and comfort. At the nexus of three basic concepts (reducing contaminants at the source, improving ventilation, and, when relevant, purifying the indoor air), this approach can help maintain and improve indoor air quality and limit exposure to several contaminants. Its application is particularly relevant in a climate change context since the evolving outdoor conditions have to be taken into account during building construction and renovation. The measures presented through this approach target public health players, building managers, owners, occupants, and professionals involved in building design, construction, renovation, and maintenance. The findings of this review will help the various stakeholders initiate a strategic reflection on the importance of indoor air quality and climate change issues for existing and future buildings. Several new avenues and recommendations are presented to set the path for future research activities.

http://ift.tt/2A7vZIA

Can beliefs about musculoskeletal pain and work be changed at the national level? Prospective evaluation of the Danish national Job & Body campaign

Objectives This study evaluates the Danish national Job & Body campaign on beliefs about musculoskeletal pain and work. Methods Initiated in 2011, a national campaign in Denmark targeted public sector employees with a mixture of networking activities, workplace visits, and a mass media outreach with topics related to job and body (eg, musculoskeletal pain, movement and work) and creating balance between demands at work and physical capacity. At baseline (2011) and at four time points until the end of 2014, random cross-sectional samples of ≥≥1000 representative public sector employees (total N=5012) replied to eight questions concerning beliefs about musculoskeletal pain and work. Changes over time were modelled using general linear models (averaged for all questions, 0–100 points, where 0 is completely negative and 100 completely positive) and logistic regression analyses (for the single questions) controlling for age, gender and a number of work-related factors. Results At the last follow-up in 2014, 17.3% of public sector employees were familiar with the campaign. Beliefs about musculoskeletal pain and work were 3.4 points (95% CI 2.4–4.3) higher than at baseline. For the single questions, 4 out of 8 showed improved odds for more positive beliefs [odds ratios (OR) of 1.28–1.89]. Conclusion During follow-up of the national campaign, beliefs about musculoskeletal pain and work were more positive among public sector employees in Denmark. Due to the time-wise mixture of several campaign activities, the isolated effect of each component could not be disentangled. Whether changes in health occurred remain unknown. by Andersen LL, Geisle N, Knudsen B. doi:10.5271/sjweh.3687

http://ift.tt/2zoakZ1

Prevention of hand eczema: effect of an educational program versus treatment as usual – results of the randomized clinical PREVEX trial

Objective Occupational hand eczema has adverse health and socioeconomic impacts for the afflicted individuals and society. Prevention and treatment strategies are needed. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of an educational intervention on sickness absence, quality of life and severity of hand eczema. Methods PREVEX (PreVention of EXema) is an individually randomized, parallel-group superiority trial investigating the pros and cons of one-time, 2-hour, group-based education in skin-protective behavior versus treatment as usual among patients with newly notified occupational hand eczema, with follow-up after one year. Co-primary outcomes were total sickness absence, health-related quality of life (HR-QoL), and self-reported severity of hand eczema. Results Patients (N=1668) with notified occupational skin diseases from July 2012 to November 2014 were invited to participate in the trial. Of these, 756 were randomized to the intervention (N= 376) versus control (N=380) group. The intervention group had 21% fewer sickness absence days compared with the control group [95% confidence interval (CI) -55–40%, P=0.43]. We found no significant difference in the change of HR-QoL for the intervention compared with the control group (4% lower in the intervention group, 95% CI -18–13%, P=0.67). The ordinal odds of scoring worse on self-reported hand eczema severity was 15% lower in the intervention compared with the control group (95% CI -39–18%, P=0.34). Post-hoc sub-group analyses indicated that the effect of the intervention on severity differed between occupations, being detrimental to healthcare workers and beneficial in all other occupations. Conclusion The educational skincare program had no marked effect on the primary outcomes sickness absence, HR-QoL, and severity of hand eczema when compared with treatment as usual. by Fisker MH, Ebbehøj NE, Vejlstrup SG, Lindschou J, Gluud C, Winkel P, Bonde JP, Agner T. doi:10.5271/sjweh.3691

http://ift.tt/2zkqiUi

Prevalence of occupational exposure to asthmagens derived from animals, fish and/or shellfish among Australian workers

Objective

Several animal, fish and/or shellfish derived substances encountered in the workplace can initiate or exacerbate asthma. The aims of this study were: to produce a population-based estimate of the current prevalence of occupational exposure to animal, fish and/or shellfish derived asthmagens, to identify the main circumstances of exposures and to identify occupations with the highest proportions of exposed respondents.

Methods

We used data from the Australian Work Exposure Study-Asthma, a national telephone survey that investigated the current prevalence of occupational exposure to asthmagens among Australian workers. A web-based tool was used to collect job task information and assign exposure to asthmagens, including animal, fish and/or shellfish derived asthmagens. Prevalence ratios to determine risk factors for exposure were estimated using modified Poisson regression.

Results

Of the 4878 respondents, 12.4% were exposed to asthmagens derived from animals, fish and/or shellfish. Exposure to these asthmagens was significantly higher in workers residing in regional and remote areas, compared with major cities. The main circumstance of exposure to animal derived asthmagens was through cleaning up rat/mice infestations, while the main circumstance of exposure to fish and/or shellfish derived asthmagens was through preparing and cooking salmon. Occupational groups with the highest proportion of exposure to animal or fish and/or shellfish derived asthmagens were farmers/animal workers and food workers, respectively.

Conclusions

This is the first study investigating occupational exposure to animal, fish and/or shellfish derived asthmagens in a nationwide working population. The results of this study can be used to inform the direction of occupational interventions and policies to reduce work-related asthma.

http://ift.tt/2n4bOpZ

3-(Bromomethyl)-2-chloro-4-(methylsulfonyl)- benzoic acid: a new cause of sensitiser induced occupational asthma, rhinitis and urticaria

Objectives

3-(Bromomethyl)–2-chloro-4-(methylsulfonyl)-benzoic acid (BCMBA) has not previously been identified as a respiratory sensitiser. We detected two cases who presented respiratory and urticaria symptoms related to BCMBA and had positive skin prick tests to the agent. Subsequently, we conducted outbreak investigations at the BCMBA-producing factory and performed clinical examinations to confirm occupational diseases.

Methods

The outbreak investigations included observations of work processes, assessment of exposure, a medical survey with a questionnaire and skin prick tests with 0.5% BCMBA water solution on 85 exposed workers and 9 unexposed workers. We used specific inhalation or nasal challenge and open skin application test to investigate BCMBA-related occupational asthma, rhinitis and contact urticaria.

Results

We identified nine workers with respiratory and/or skin symptoms and positive skin prick tests to BCMBA in a chemical factory. A survey among chemical factory workers indicated a BCMBA-related sensitisation rate of 8% among all exposed workers; the rate was highest (25%) among production workers in the production hall. Sensitisation was detected only in workers with the estimated highest exposure levels. Six cases of occupational asthma, rhinitis and/or contact urticaria caused by BCMBA were confirmed with challenge tests. Asthma-provoking doses in specific inhalation challenges were very low (0.03% or 0.3% BCMBA in lactose).

Conclusions

We identified a new low molecular weight agent causing occupational asthma, rhinitis and contact urticaria. A typical clinical picture of allergic diseases and positive skin prick tests suggest underlying IgE-mediated disease mechanisms. Stringent exposure control measures are needed in order to prevent BCMBA-related diseases.

http://ift.tt/2zzvbNg

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1452: Social Determinants of Health, Disaster Vulnerability, Severe and Morbid Obesity in Adults: Triple Jeopardy?

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1452: Social Determinants of Health, Disaster Vulnerability, Severe and Morbid Obesity in Adults: Triple Jeopardy?

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121452

Authors: Lesley Gray

Severe and morbid obesity are associated with highly elevated risks of adverse health outcomes and the prevalence of severe obesity is increasing globally. To date, disaster literature has not considered severe and morbid obesity as a specific vulnerability, despite reports of people being left behind during disasters because of their body size, shape or weight. The complex causes of obesity are associated with the social determinants of health and one’s potential vulnerability to disasters. The absence of appropriate considerations may lead to people being exposed to disproportionate and potentially avoidable risk. The intersection of the social determinants of health, disaster vulnerability, severe and morbid obesity is explored. Previously identified vulnerable groups are also represented in severe and morbid obesity data. This poses the prospect for ‘triple jeopardy’ compounding the social determinants of health, disaster vulnerability and considerations with and for people with morbid obesity. When working to reduce disaster risk for vulnerable groups, the author proposes specific consideration is required to ensure ‘all-of-society engagement and partnership’ in an inclusive, accessible and non-discriminatory manner, to ensure no one is left behind.

http://ift.tt/2A9pWkq

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1450: Improving Pool Fencing Legislation in Queensland, Australia: Attitudes and Impact on Child Drowning Fatalities

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1450: Improving Pool Fencing Legislation in Queensland, Australia: Attitudes and Impact on Child Drowning Fatalities

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121450

Authors: Richard Franklin Amy Peden

Four-sided, non-climbable pool fencing is an effective strategy for preventing children from drowning in home swimming pools. In 2009, the Queensland Government introduced legislation to improve the effectiveness of pool fencing. This study explores community attitudes towards the effectiveness of these legislative changes and examines child (<5 years) drowning deaths in pools. Data from the 2011 Queensland Computer-Assisted Telephone Interviewing (CATI) Social Survey include results from questions related to pool ownership and pool fencing legislation. Fatal child drowning cases between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2015 were sourced from coronial data. Of the 1263 respondents, 26/100 households had a pool. A total of 58% believed tightening legislation would be effective in reducing child drowning deaths. Pool owners were more likely to doubt the effectiveness of legislation (p < 0.001) when compared to non-pool owners. Perceptions of effectiveness did not differ by presence of children under the age of five. There were 46 children who drowned in Queensland home pools (7.8/100,000 pools with children residing in the residence/annum) between 2005 and 2015. While pool owners were less likely to think that tightening the legislation would be effective, the number of children drowning in home swimming pools declined over the study period. Drowning prevention agencies have more work to do to ensure that the most vulnerable (young children in houses with swimming pools) are protected.

http://ift.tt/2i37O7g

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1448: Forging a Frailty-Ready Healthcare System to Meet Population Ageing

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1448: Forging a Frailty-Ready Healthcare System to Meet Population Ageing

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121448

Authors: Wee Lim Sweet Wong Ian Leong Philip Choo Weng Pang

The beginning of the 21st century has seen health systems worldwide struggling to deliver quality healthcare amidst challenges posed by ageing populations. The increasing prevalence of frailty with older age and accompanying complexities in physical, cognitive, social and psychological dimensions renders the present modus operandi of fragmented, facility-centric, doctor-based, and illness-centered care delivery as clearly unsustainable. In line with the public health framework for action in the World Health Organization’s World Health and Ageing Report, meeting these challenges will require a systemic reform of healthcare delivery that is integrated, patient-centric, team-based, and health-centered. These reforms can be achieved through building partnerships and relationships that engage, empower, and activate patients and their support systems. To meet the challenges of population ageing, Singapore has reorganised its public healthcare into regional healthcare systems (RHSs) aimed at improving population health and the experience of care, and reducing costs. This paper will describe initiatives within the RHS frameworks of the National Health Group (NHG) and the Alexandra Health System (AHS) to forge a frailty-ready healthcare system across the spectrum, which includes the well healthy (“living well”), the well unhealthy (“living with illness”), the unwell unhealthy (“living with frailty”), and the end-of-life (EoL) (“dying well”). For instance, the AHS has adopted a community-centered population health management strategy in older housing estates such as Yishun to build a geographically-based care ecosystem to support the self-management of chronic disease through projects such as “wellness kampungs” and “share-a-pot”. A joint initiative by the Lien Foundation and Khoo Teck Puat Hospital aims to launch dementia-friendly communities across the island by building a network comprising community partners, businesses, and members of the public. At the National Healthcare Group, innovative projects to address the needs of the frail elderly have been developed in the areas of: (a) admission avoidance through joint initiatives with long-term care facilities, nurse-led geriatric assessment at the emergency department and geriatric assessment clinics; (b) inpatient care, such as the Framework for Inpatient care of the Frail Elderly, orthogeriatric services, and geriatric surgical services; and (c) discharge to care, involving community transitional care teams and the development of community infrastructure for post-discharge support; and an appropriate transition to EoL care. In the area of EoL care, the National Strategy for Palliative Care has been developed to build an integrated system to: provide care for frail elderly with advance illnesses, develop advance care programmes that respect patients’ choices, and equip healthcare professionals to cope with the challenges of EoL care.

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IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1453: Radioactive Cobalt(II) Removal from Aqueous Solutions Using a Reusable Nanocomposite: Kinetic, Isotherms, and Mechanistic Study

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1453: Radioactive Cobalt(II) Removal from Aqueous Solutions Using a Reusable Nanocomposite: Kinetic, Isotherms, and Mechanistic Study

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121453

Authors: Xiaotao Zhang Ximing Wang Zhangjing Chen

A lignocellulose/montmorillonite (LMT) nanocomposite was prepared as a reusable adsorbent for cobalt(II) ions, and characterized by nitrogen (N2) adsorption/desorption isotherm, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). LMT exhibited efficient adsorption of cobalt ions (Co(II)), and the adsorbed Co(II) was readily desorbed by nitric acid (HNO3). All parameters affecting the adsorption and/or desorption of Co(II), including initial Co(II) concentration, pH value, temperature, HNO3 concentration, and time, were optimized. The kinetic data analysis showed that the adsorption followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and fit well into the Langmuir isotherm equation. Notably, the nanocomposite can be used four times without significantly losing adsorbent capability. The Energy-Dispersive X-ray (EDX) and FTIR spectra analysis also revealed that the adsorption mechanism may be mainly a chemical adsorption dominated process.

http://ift.tt/2B8cKeX

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1449: Bullying and Cyberbullying: Their Legal Status and Use in Psychological Assessment

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1449: Bullying and Cyberbullying: Their Legal Status and Use in Psychological Assessment

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121449

Authors: Muthanna Samara Vicky Burbidge Aiman El Asam Mairéad Foody Peter Smith Hisham Morsi

Bullying and cyberbullying have severe psychological and legal consequences for those involved. However, it is unclear how or even if previous experience of bullying and cyberbullying is considered in mental health assessments. Furthermore, the relevance and effectiveness of current legal solutions has been debated extensively, resulting in a desire for a specific legislation. The purpose of this study is to investigate the psychological and legal components of bullying and cyberbullying. This is a qualitative research that includes interviews with five practitioner psychologists and four lawyers in the United Kingdom (UK). Thematic analysis revealed three main themes. One theme is related to the definition, characteristics, and impact of bullying and cyberbullying and the need for more discussion among the psychological and legal professions. Another theme is related to current professional procedures and the inclusion of questions about bullying and cyberbullying in psychological risk assessments. The third theme emphasised the importance of intervention through education. Two key messages were highlighted by the lawyers: ample yet problematic legislation exists, and knowledge will ensure legal success. The study recommends the necessity of performing revisions in the clinical psychological practices and assessments, and the legal policies regarding bullying and cyberbullying. In addition to improving legal success, this will reduce bullying prevalence rates, psychological distress, and psychopathology that can be comorbid or emerge as a result of this behaviour.

http://ift.tt/2iN5GO1

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1451: Intuitionistic Linguistic Multiple Attribute Decision-Making with Induced Aggregation Operator and Its Application to Low Carbon Supplier Selection

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1451: Intuitionistic Linguistic Multiple Attribute Decision-Making with Induced Aggregation Operator and Its Application to Low Carbon Supplier Selection

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121451

Authors: Jun Liu Xianbin Wu Shouzhen Zeng Tiejun Pan

The main focus of this paper is to investigate the multiple attribute decision making (MADM) method under intuitionistic linguistic (IL) environment, based on induced aggregation operators and analyze possibilities for its application in low carbon supplier selection. More specifically, a new aggregation operator, called intuitionistic linguistic weighted induced ordered weighted averaging (ILWIOWA), is introduced to facilitate the IL information. Some of its desired properties are explored. A further generalization of the ILWIOWA, called intuitionistic linguistic generalized weighted induced ordered weighted averaging (ILGWIOWA), operator is developed. Furthermore, by employing the proposed operators, a MADM approach based on intuitionistic linguistic information is presented. Finally, an illustrative example concerning low carbon supplier selection and comparative analyses are conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness and practicality of the proposed approach.

http://ift.tt/2B7XJd8

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1446: Effects of A 60 Hz Magnetic Field of Up to 50 milliTesla on Human Tremor and EEG: A Pilot Study

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1446: Effects of A 60 Hz Magnetic Field of Up to 50 milliTesla on Human Tremor and EEG: A Pilot Study

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121446

Authors: Shirin Davarpanah Jazi Julien Modolo Cadence Baker Sebastien Villard Alexandre Legros

Humans are surrounded by sources of daily exposure to power-frequency (60 Hz in North America) magnetic fields (MFs). Such time-varying MFs induce electric fields and currents in living structures which possibly lead to biological effects. The present pilot study examined possible extremely low frequency (ELF) MF effects on human neuromotor control in general, and physiological postural tremor and electroencephalography (EEG) in particular. Since the EEG cortical mu-rhythm (8–12 Hz) from the primary motor cortex and physiological tremor are related, it was hypothesized that a 60 Hz MF exposure focused on this cortical region could acutely modulate human physiological tremor. Ten healthy volunteers (age: 23.8 ± 4 SD) were fitted with a MRI-compatible EEG cap while exposed to 11 MF conditions (60 Hz, 0 to 50 mTrms, 5 mTrms increments). Simultaneously, physiological tremor (recorded from the contralateral index finger) and EEG (from associated motor and somatosensory brain regions) were measured. Results showed no significant main effect of MF exposure conditions on any of the analyzed physiological tremor characteristics. In terms of EEG, no significant effects of the MF were observed for C1, C3, C5 and CP1 electrodes. However, a significant main effect was found for CP3 and CP5 electrodes, both suggesting a decreased mu-rhythm spectral power with increasing MF flux density. This is however not confirmed by Bonferroni corrected pairwise comparisons. Considering both EEG and tremor findings, no effect of the MF exposure on human motor control was observed. However, MF exposure had a subtle effect on the mu-rhythm amplitude in the brain region involved in tactile perception. Current findings are to be considered with caution due to the small size of this pilot work, but they provide preliminary insights to international agencies establishing guidelines regarding electromagnetic field exposure with new experimental data acquired in humans exposed to high mT-range MFs.

http://ift.tt/2jUoP49

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1447: Grip Strength as an Indicator of Health-Related Quality of Life in Old Age—A Pilot Study

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1447: Grip Strength as an Indicator of Health-Related Quality of Life in Old Age—A Pilot Study

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121447

Authors: Christina Musalek Sylvia Kirchengast

Over the last century life expectancy has increased dramatically nearly all over the world. This dramatic absolute and relative increase of the old aged people component of the population has influenced not only population structure but also has dramatic implications for the individuals and public health services. The aim of the present pilot study was to examine the impact of physical well-being assessed by hand grip strength and social factors estimated by social contact frequency on health-related quality of life among 22 men and 41 women ranging in age between 60 and 94 years. Physical well-being was estimated by hand grip strength, data concerning subjective wellbeing and health related quality of life were collected by personal interviews based on the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaires. Number of offspring and intergenerational contacts were not related significantly to health-related quality of life, while social contacts with non-relatives and hand grip strength in contrast had a significant positive impact on health related quality of life among old aged men and women. Physical well-being and in particular muscle strength—estimated by grip strength—may increase health-related quality of life and is therefore an important source for well-being during old age. Grip strength may be used as an indicator of health-related quality of life.

http://ift.tt/2i0rJnj

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1442: Cross-National Systematic Review of Neonatal Mortality and Postnatal Newborn Care: Special Focus on Pakistan

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1442: Cross-National Systematic Review of Neonatal Mortality and Postnatal Newborn Care: Special Focus on Pakistan

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121442

Authors: Mansoor Ahmed Youngjoon Won

The latest nationwide survey of Pakistan showed that considerable progress has been made toward reducing all child mortality indicators except neonatal mortality. The aim of this study is to compare Pakistan’s under-five mortality, neonatal mortality, and postnatal newborn care rates with those of other countries. Neonatal mortality rates and postnatal newborn care rates from the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHSs) of nine low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) from Asia and Africa were analyzed. Pakistan’s maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH) policies and programs, which have been implemented in the country since 1990, were also analyzed. The results highlighted that postnatal newborn care in Pakistan was higher compared with the rest of countries, yet its neonatal mortality remained the worst. In Zimbabwe, both mortality rates have been increasing, whereas the neonatal mortality rates in Nepal and Afghanistan remained unchanged. An analysis of Pakistan’s MNCH programs showed that there is no nationwide policy on neonatal health. There were only a few programs concerning the health of newborns, and those were limited in scale. Pakistan’s example shows that increased coverage of neonatal care without ensuring quality is unlikely to improve neonatal survival rates. It is suggested that Pakistan needs a comprehensive policy on neonatal health similar to other countries, and its effective programs need to be scaled up, in order to obtain better neonatal health outcomes.

http://ift.tt/2iKuciJ

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1439: FRED: Exergame to Prevent Dependence and Functional Deterioration Associated with Ageing. A Pilot Three-Week Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1439: FRED: Exergame to Prevent Dependence and Functional Deterioration Associated with Ageing. A Pilot Three-Week Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121439

Authors: Iranzu Mugueta-Aguinaga Begonya Garcia-Zapirain

Introduction: Frailty syndrome and advanced age may decrease the acceptance of illness and quality of life, and worsen patients’ existing health conditions, as well as leading to an increase in health care expenses. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to reduce frailty risk via the use of a FRED game which has been expressly designed and put together for the study. Materials and methods: A total of 40 frail volunteers with a score of <10 points in the short physical performance battery (SPPB) took part in a feasibility study in order to validate the FRED game. Following randomisation, the study group (20 subjects) took part in nine sessions of 20 min each over a three-week period. The control group (19 subjects) continued to lead their daily lives in the course of which they had no physical activity scheduled; Results: After three weeks and having taken part in nine physical activity sessions with the FRED game, 60% of subjects from the study group (12/20) obtained a score of ≥10 points at the end of the study, i.e., less risk of evidencing frailty. This result proved to be statistically significant (p < 0.001). The degree of compliance with and adherence to the game was confirmed by 100% attendance of the sessions. Discussion: Our findings support the hypothesis that FRED, an ad hoc designed exergame, significantly reduced the presence and severity of frailty in a sample of sedentary elders, thus potentially modifying their risk profile. Conclusions: The FRED game is a tool that shows a 99% certain improvement in the degree of frailty in frail elderly subjects. The effectiveness of the design of ad hoc games in a certain pathology or population group is therefore evidenced.

http://ift.tt/2zhzNn5

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1438: Optimization of the Use of His6-OPH-Based Enzymatic Biocatalysts for the Destruction of Chlorpyrifos in Soil

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1438: Optimization of the Use of His6-OPH-Based Enzymatic Biocatalysts for the Destruction of Chlorpyrifos in Soil

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121438

Authors: Olga Senko Olga Maslova Elena Efremenko

Applying enzymatic biocatalysts based on hexahistidine-containing organophosphorus hydrolase (His6-OPH) is suggested for the decomposition of chlorpyrifos, which is actively used in agriculture in many countries. The application conditions were optimized and the following techniques was suggested to ensure the highest efficiency of the enzyme: first, the soil is alkalinized with hydrated calcitic lime Ca(OH)2, then the enzyme is introduced into the soil at a concentration of 1000 U/kg soil. Non-equilibrium low temperature plasma (NELTP)-modified zeolite is used for immobilization of the relatively inexpensive polyelectrolyte complexes containing the enzyme His6-OPH and a polyanionic polymer: poly-l-glutamic acid (PLE50) or poly-l-aspartic acid (PLD50). The soil’s humidity is then increased up to 60–80%, the top layer (10–30 cm) of soil is thoroughly stirred, and then exposed for 48–72 h. The suggested approach ensures 100% destruction of the pesticide within 72 h in soils containing as much as 100 mg/kg of chlorpyrifos. It was concluded that using this type of His6-OPH-based enzyme chemical can be the best approach for soils with relatively low humus concentrations, such as sandy and loam-sandy chestnut soils, as well as types of soil with increased alkalinity (pH 8.0–8.4). Such soils are often encountered in desert, desert-steppe, foothills, and subtropical regions where chlorpyrifos is actively used.

http://ift.tt/2zg7fKu

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1445: Lead Emissions and Population Vulnerability in the Detroit (Michigan, USA) Metropolitan Area, 2006–2013: A Spatial and Temporal Analysis

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1445: Lead Emissions and Population Vulnerability in the Detroit (Michigan, USA) Metropolitan Area, 2006–2013: A Spatial and Temporal Analysis

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121445

Authors: Heather Moody Sue C. Grady

Objective: The purpose of this research is to geographically model airborne lead emission concentrations and total lead deposition in the Detroit Metropolitan Area (DMA) from 2006 to 2013. Further, this study characterizes the racial and socioeconomic composition of recipient neighborhoods and estimates the potential for IQ (Intelligence Quotient) loss of children residing there. Methods: Lead emissions were modeled from emitting facilities in the DMA using AERMOD (American Meteorological Society/Environmental Protection Agency Regulatory Model). Multilevel modeling was used to estimate local racial residential segregation, controlling for poverty. Global Moran’s I bivariate spatial autocorrelation statistics were used to assess modeled emissions with increasing segregation. Results: Lead emitting facilities were primarily located in, and moving to, highly black segregated neighborhoods regardless of poverty levels—a phenomenon known as environmental injustice. The findings from this research showed three years of elevated airborne emission concentrations in these neighborhoods to equate to a predicted 1.0 to 3.0 reduction in IQ points for children living there. Across the DMA there are many areas where annual lead deposition was substantially higher than recommended for aquatic (rivers, lakes, etc.) and terrestrial (forests, dunes, etc.) ecosystems. These lead levels result in decreased reproductive and growth rates in plants and animals, and neurological deficits in vertebrates. Conclusions: This lead-hazard and neighborhood context assessment will inform future childhood lead exposure studies and potential health consequences in the DMA.

http://ift.tt/2zjFukc

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1443: Factors Effecting the Total Volatile Organic Compound (TVOC) Concentrations in Slovak Households

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1443: Factors Effecting the Total Volatile Organic Compound (TVOC) Concentrations in Slovak Households

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14121443

Authors: Ľudmila Mečiarová Silvia Vilčeková Eva Krídlová Burdová Jozef Kiselák

Thirty five Slovak households were selected for an investigation of indoor environmental quality. Measuring of indoor air physical and chemical factors and a questionnaire survey was performed during May 2017. The range of permissible operative temperature was not met in 11% of objects. Relative humidity met the legislative requirements in all monitored homes. Concentrations of total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) were significantly higher in the apartments than in the family houses. The average TVOC levels in the apartments and family houses were 519.7 µg/m3 and 330.2 µg/m3, respectively. Statistical analysis confirmed the effect of indoor air temperature, relative humidity and particulate matter (PM0.5 and PM1) on the levels of TVOCs. Higher TVOC levels were observed also in homes where it is not a common practice to open windows during cleaning activities. Other factors that had a statistically significant effect on concentrations of volatile organic compounds were heating type, attached garage, location of the apartment within residential building (the floor), as well as number of occupants. Higher TVOC concentrations were observed in indoor than outdoor environment, while further analysis showed the significant impact of indoor emission sources on the level of these compounds in buildings. The questionnaire study showed a discrepancy between objective measurement and subjective assessment in the household environment, and pointed to insufficient public awareness about volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

http://ift.tt/2iKGVSR