Health Demands Research Articles

Influence of Lipid Fermentation Wastewater on Yield and Nutritional Profile of Edible and Medicinal Mushrooms

Utilizing agricultural waste to produce mushrooms may be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly proposition to address the nutritional and health demands of the growing global population. Mushrooms can grow on a range of substrates and their selection is based on their availability and cost. In this study, five types of local waste were mixed: olive crop residues (OC), coffee residue (CR) or rice husk (RH) with wheat straw (WS) and beech wood shavings (BW), respectively. Then, the mixtures were sprayed with 20% w/w lipid fermentation wastewater (LFW) from Rodosporidium toruloides that was used as an alternative substrate-moistening method. Afterwards, these mixtures were tested for cultivating Pleurotus spp., Ganoderma spp. and Lentinula edodes. The results showed that the substrate significantly affected the incubation period and the biological efficiency (BE), with OC mixed substrates proving to be the most favorable across the different species. Pleurotus spp. had the shortest cultivation times and the highest BE, while G. lucidum required the longest incubation periods and had the lowest BE, particularly on CR substrates. The study also found that substrates affected mushroom morphology. Nutritional analysis revealed significant differences in protein, polysaccharides, lipids, ash and energy content, depending on the species and substrate. High protein levels were found in P. eryngii (28.05–29.58% d.w.) and G. resinaceum (28.71–29.90% d.w.). The elevated total phenolic compounds (28.47–40.17 mgGAE/g) values in carposomes from CR and OC substrates for Ganoderma spp., L. edodes, P. pulmonarius and P. ostreatus, along with antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS, FRAP) assays, highlighted the crucial role of substrate composition in enhancing the medicinal properties of mushrooms. The mixed substrates also influenced the fatty acid (FA) and polysaccharide composition, with WS increasing unsaturated FAs and glucose (<69.8%) being the primary monosaccharide. The study suggests that using the spraying method of 20% w/w LFW as a moisture agent in these substrates is effective for mushroom production.

Health Service Procedures for BPJS Participants in the Inpatient Room of Lasinrang General Hospital, Pinrang Regency

Hospital services (RS), are an important public service and are needed in an effort to meet health demands. Services for the poor are one aspect implemented by health service providers such as hospitals through after-sales services by utilizing BPJS funds as operational service activities. The type of research used is a survey system with a descriptive design. The research population is all BPJS participant patients who utilize inpatient services during the study, as many as 101 people who are also research samples based on the exhaustive sampling method where the entire population is used as a sample. The results of the study showed that BPJS participants who utilized health services at Lasinrang General Hospital, Pinrang Regency were mostly in the 20-29 year age group (32.7%), more were women (63.4%) with junior high school education (46.5%) and more worked as farmers (24.8%), more BPJS participant patient admission procedures stated in the good category (69.3%), more doctor services stated in the good category (67.3%), more nurse services stated in the good category (65.3%) and more BPJS participant drug services stated in the good category (72.3%). The suggestion put forward in this study is the need to conduct training on excellent service in order to improve skills in providing services, especially to BPJS participants and treatment planning using the drug procurement method through distributors so that if the drug runs out, the distributor can be contacted and this will support the efficiency and effectiveness of drug procurement that meets the needs of patients, especially BPJS participants who utilize health services at the hospital.

A MINI REVIEW ON APPLICATION OF NON-THERMAL TECHNIQUES FOR PROTECTION OF FRUIT JUICES

Abstract: Globally, fruit juices are widely consumed due to their nutritional and health benefits. With increased consumer knowledge about health and safety demand for nutritious fresh like juices is also increased. Fruit juices are more susceptible to spoilage mostly by spoilage microorganisms or by intrinsic enzymatic reactions that adversely affect the sensory attributes of juices. Conventional thermal pasteurization is effective to control spoilage, but it also affects heat sensitive functional compounds and the nutritional value of juices. Therefore, to meet increased consumer demand and requirements, it is necessary to process a variety of fruits for juice preparation with improved preservation techniques to control spoilage. Non-thermal preservation like high pressure processing, pulse electric field, ultraviolet radiations and cold press, etc., are recognized as best alternatives to thermal pasteurization as they have substantial potential to completely inactivate spoilage microbes by causing cell disruption either during processing or after juice has packaged. One of the promising features of employing non-thermal preservation methods is that they do not affect nutritional and organoleptic characteristics of processed juice. Also, most of the methods are relatively less expensive and efficient cause maximum microbial load reduction and improve shelf life.

Health Service Procedures for BPJS Participants in the Inpatient Room of Lasinrang General Hospital

Hospital services (RS), are an important public service and are needed in an effort to fulfill health demands. Services for the poor are one aspect implemented by health service providers such as Hospitals through after-sales services by utilizing BPJS funds as operational service activities. The type of research used is a survey system with a descriptive design. The population of the study was all BPJS participant patients who utilized inpatient services during the study, totaling 101 people who were also research samples based on the exhaustive sampling method where the entire population was sampled. The results of the study showed that BPJS participants who utilized health services at Lasinrang General Hospital, Pinrang Regency were mostly in the 20-29 year age group (32.7%), more were women (63.4%) with junior high school education (46.5%) and more worked as farmers (24.8%), more BPJS participant patient admission procedures stated that they were in the good category (69.3%), more doctor services stated that they were in the good category (67.3%), more nurse services stated that they were in the good category (65.3%) and more drug services for BPJS participant patients stated that they were in the good category (72.3%). The suggestion put forward in this study is the need to conduct training on excellent service in order to improve skills in providing services, especially to BPJS participants and treatment planning using the drug procurement method through distributors so that if the drug runs out, the distributor can be contacted and this will support the efficiency and effectiveness of drug procurement that meets the needs of patients, especially BPJS participants who utilize health services at the hospital.

The pathway to health in all policies through intersectoral collaboration on the health workforce: a scoping review.

The health workforce (HWF) is a critical component of the health sector. Intersectoral/multisectoral collaboration and action is foundational to strengthening the HWF, enabling responsiveness to dynamic population health demands and supporting broader goals around social and economic development-such development underpins the need for health in all policies (HiAP). To identify what can be learned from intersectoral/multisectoral activity for HWF strengthening to advance HiAP, we carried out a scoping review. Our review included both peer-reviewed and grey literature. Search terms encompassed terminology for the HWF, intersectoral/multisectoral activities and governance or management. We carried out a framework analysis, extracting data around different aspects of HiAP implementation. With the aim of supporting action to advance HiAP, our analysis identified core recommendations for intersectoral/multisectoral collaboration for the HWF, organized as a 'pathway to HiAP'. We identified 93 documents-67 (72%) were journal articles and 26 (28%) were grey literature. Documents reflected a wide range of country and regional settings. The majority (80, 86%) were published within the past 10 years, reflecting a growing trend in publications on the topic of intersectoral/multisectoral activity for the HWF. From our review and analysis, we identified five areas in the 'pathway to HiAP': ensure robust coordination and leadership; strengthen governance and policy-making and implementation capacities; develop intersectoral/multisectoral strategies; build intersectoral/multisectoral information systems and identify transparent, resources financing and investment opportunities. Each has key practical and policy implications. Although we introduce a 'pathway', the relationship between the areas is not linear, rather, they both influence and are influenced by one another, reflecting their shared importance. Underscoring this 'pathway' is the shared recognition of the importance of intersectoral/multisectoral activity, shared vision and political will. Advancing health 'for' all policies-generating evidence about best practices to identify and maximize co-benefits across sectors-is a next milestone.

Mental health nursing students and generic proficiencies: how educators can support assessment.

Recent shifts in nursing education towards generic proficiencies pose challenges to the unique demands of mental health nursing education. Student mental health nurses at the authors' higher education institution (HEI) have provided service feedback that has expressed the difficulties they have encountered. This article examines the issues faced by students, assessors and educators in interpreting and applying the proficiency standards set by the Nursing and Midwifery Council. Addressing the complexities of mental health nursing education, as well as the barriers to learning and attainment, requires a collaborative effort and innovative solutions if HEIs are to successfully prepare future mental health nurses to meet the evolving demands of their role. The proposed solution is a 'Proficiency Directory', which provides structured resources for mental health nursing students to align learning experiences with assessment criteria, facilitating a more comprehensive and meaningful learning journey.

Regional determinants in origin–destination remittance flows from the US to Mexico: evidence from the COVID-19 pandemic

ABSTRACT Despite expectations of a decline in remittances due to rising US unemployment, total remittances to Mexico increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, although with regional disparities. Using a spatial gravity econometric model with state-level origin–destination data, we analysed these variations, considering regional economic and health conditions and demand for digital remittance services. The study focused on the second quarter of 2020, marked by lockdowns and economic disruptions. Findings suggest a strong link between employment changes and digital service demand, influencing US remittance flows. Results for Mexico support the significant impact of digital services over the altruistic hypothesis, highlighting the need for a regional approach to studying remittances.

The Exploration and Practice of the "1+1 School-Clinic Deep Cooperation" Talent Training Model for Oral Care in Private Universities

With the growing demand for oral health, private universities are facing practical difficulties such as insufficient faculty and a lack of practical teaching conditions in the cultivation of oral care talents. The "1+1 School-Clinic Deep Cooperation" training model provides an effective way to solve these problems. This article discusses the specific content of the "1+1 School-Clinic Deep Cooperation" model, including the combination of one year of on-campus theoretical learning and one year of practical training in enterprises. The article puts forward four implementation strategies, namely, deepening the university-enterprise cooperation mechanism, building a “dual-teacher” faculty, establishing a shared practical training base, and constructing a perfect practical training evaluation system. These measures aim to improve students' practical ability and employment competitiveness and to meet the market demand for high-quality dental nursing talents. By summarizing and exploring the feasibility and promotion value of this cooperation model, we aim to provide a reference for the development of dental nursing education in private universities.

Methods for projecting health workforce planning in Ireland: a collaborative approach

Abstract Background Health workforce planning (HWFP) is the process of analysing, forecasting, and planning workforce supply and demand, assessing gaps, and determining target workforce to ensure that health systems are prepared for future demand. HWFP elicits recommendations that are ideally utilised by the health system to support medical workforce over a defined time. Methods The objective of this project is to inform intake for medical and surgical specialties in Ireland to reach the necessary consultant workforce by 2038. A literature search was conducted to help inform the methodology for this project. The most common approach was a needs-based model, and additional reviews discussed the integration of medical engagement into the modelling approach. Results This project will employ a collaborative approach, combining mathematical modelling and a combination of quantitative and qualitative inputs, including the following phases: 1. The research phase will estimate baseline supply and demand data across medical and surgical specialties in Ireland using statistical models; 2. The presentation phase will include input from clinical leads to allow for more accurate assumptions in the baseline of each model; 3. Review of projections will include feedback from the clinical leads to help clarify and improve the initial model; 4. Presentation of the revised projection will include further collaboration with clinical leads to finalise the model. Conclusions The robust methodology for this HWFP project will ideally inform medical and surgical specialities in Ireland through 2038. Specific and extensive predictions of health workforce supply and demand will enhance strategic preparation, which is a key priority for the Health Service Executive in Ireland. Key messages • A collaborative approach to HWFP is essential for health service preparation and improvement. • The project will be finalised by the end of 2024, and the methodology for conducting similar HWFP projects can be adapted by other EU states.

Public Perceptions and Engagement in mHealth Across Eight European Countries

Abstract Background Mobile health technologies have the potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery and patient engagement. This study explores public attitudes toward health app usage and data sharing across eight European countries, addressing a significant gap in understanding the public’s perspective on mHealth adoption. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted involving 6,581 participants from Italy, the Netherlands, France, Germany, Spain, Poland, Romania, and Hungary. The survey assessed current health app usage, future interest, willingness to share health data, and concerns about data privacy and security. Results 21.87% of respondents currently use health apps, with 42.71% expressing interest in future use. Regarding data sharing, 52.82% are willing to share health data with healthcare providers, and 25.48% would share data with research institutions. However, 53.18% fear unauthorized use or hacking of their health data. Significant generational and geographical differences in mHealth engagement were observed, with older generations showing higher willingness to adopt health apps OR 1.22 (CI 1.03 - 1.46) for Baby Boomers, OR 1.45 (CI 0.97 - 2.16) for Silent Generation. Education level emerged as a crucial factor, with tertiary-educated individuals more likely to use health apps (OR 1.41 CI 1.24 - 1.58) and demand transparency (OR 1.61 CI 1.45 -1.78). Conclusions The findings underscore the need for targeted strategies to enhance digital literacy, ensure data privacy, and promote equitable access to mHealth technologies across Europe. Policymakers and healthcare stakeholders should prioritize these areas to foster greater public trust and engagement in mHealth, ultimately improving health outcomes and patient care. Key messages • Public attitudes toward mHealth vary significantly across generations, countries, and education levels in Europe. • Addressing data privacy concerns and enhancing digital literacy are crucial for widespread mHealth adoption.

10.I. Scientific session: A National E-Infrastructure for Aging Research to Improve Public Health

Abstract Global life expectancy gains over the last half-century are remarkable. Yet the resulting demographic shift towards an older population poses substantial public health challenges, particularly in healthcare. To address these challenges, a profound and scientifically-based understanding of older adults’ health and care requirements is needed. Recognizing the need for a better understanding of the aging process and public health challenges, the National E-infrastructure for Aging Research (NEAR) was founded in 2018. NEAR seeks to promote and support aging research by facilitating longitudinal population-based data usage from 15 well-known Swedish cohort studies on aging and health. It is based on a collaboration between eight Swedish universities and includes 15 databases with individual assessments. NEAR comprises a broad range of biomedical, clinical, social, and psychological health data from more than 90,000 adults who are 50+ years old. These individuals have been followed between 12 and 52 years. The objective of this workshop is to give an overview of the NEAR infrastructure, present results from three ongoing NEAR projects, and their implications for public health: 1) Temporal trends in dementia incidence in Sweden; 2) Personality and biomarkers of neurodegeneration and Alzheimer’s disease in Swedish older adults, and 3) Characterizing risk profiles and transitions across living and care settings in Sweden. Infrastructures such as NEAR offer high-quality epidemiological data for achieving broad, interdisciplinary research goals that single databases often cannot provide. Moreover, the value added to these kinds of data includes enhanced sample sizes, variations, representativeness, and generalizability. In turn, this can address an aging society’s public and clinical health demands. Eventually, this could lead to sustainable intervention strategies for improving older persons’ health in the coming decades. Key messages • Discover new avenues in public health aging research: Gain insights into cutting-edge aging research opportunities in Sweden, exploring key NEAR projects. • Recognize the value of national infrastructures using high-quality epidemiological data in fostering collaborative and nationally representative public health research.

Improving the healthcare response to migrants landing in Lampedusa through a multimodal strategy.

Abstract Issue Lampedusa island is a crucial Italian entry point for migrants and the only health facility is the outpatient clinic that relies on the helicopter transfer to the mainland for urgencies. When the influx of migrants -and of tourists- increases, the health demand burden rises. Moreover, the plurality of the actors involved in migrants’ reception and assistance makes healthcare organization complex. In 2023, 115.000 arrivals were recorded with an increase of pregnant migrants transferred by helicopter; moreover, the lack of an EMTs-equipped ambulance and coordination gaps between actors were raised. Description of the practice Also paving on law 50/2023, in 2023 INMP and other institutions promoted a multimodal strategy to support healthcare in Lampedusa. A needs assessment grounded on settings and processes field observation and key stakeholders’ structured interviews was designed. Hence, an equipped ambulance service was set in September 2023 and an obstetric triage (ObT) procedure for pregnant migrants was tested. Further, operational protocols for migrants’ health have been drafted and enclosed in a MoU signed between key institutions, and a dedicated Committee monitoring protocol implementation was also set. Results Until now the ambulance has carried out 242 operations, mostly in response to community requests and ObT has led to using helicopter solely for real Ob urgencies. Also, the MoU has improved the coordination between actors, and the monitoring Committee-just settled-has already identified new priorities such as of defining a procedure for pregnant migrants requesting pregnancy termination. Lessons A multimodal strategy based on field assessment, enhancing coordination between actors and rolling-out of shared procedures has improved the effectiveness, efficiency and appropriateness of healthcare in Lampedusa, requiring a slight increase in resources. Remarkably, the healthcare reinforcing results in beneficial also for the general population. Key messages • Massive influx of migrants in Lampedusa has required strengthening health services on the island. • Evidence-based interventions based on needs assessment have improved healthcare for both migrants and the general population.

Factors that influence the need for mental health services for older adults in Europe

Abstract Background Mental health is an integral component of health, and affects close to a 100 million Europeans. Little is known about the predictors of older adult’s mental health demand among health systems in European countries. This study is based on the Andersen’s Behavior Model, that predicts that predisposing characteristics, enabling factors, and behavioral factors, influence need or demand factors of healthcare services. Aim This study has two overall objectives: (i) to investigate the determinants of older adults’ mental health services demand; and (ii) examine the relationship between predisposing characteristics, and enabling resources, with services demand. Methods Data from Wave 9, of the of the cross-national panel dataset of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) were examined using a sample of 47, 345 older adults. Analysis: The Omnibus test was used to evaluate the fit model and Multinomial Logistics Regression were performed to test the null hypothesis that predisposing characteristics, enabling resources, and behavioral factors are not predictors of need or demand. Findings Predisposing characteristics such as gender (b=-.43, s.e.=.017, p<.001) and age (b=-1.96, s.e.=2.2, p<.001), and enabling factors such as homecare (b = 2.40, s.e.=0.1, p<.001), social support (b=-.26, s.e.=0.012, p<.001), financial support receiving (b=.51, s.e.=.086, p<.001), income (b=.09, s.e.=.009, p<.001), and behavioral factors such as use of technology are predictors of mental health services need or demand [Chi-Square= 3319.58, df = 15 and p <.001]. Implications for Policy and Practice Initiatives for the care of older adults should not only aim to increase access to care services for sub populations such as older adults with mental health but also consider enabling resources such as financial and social support and behavioral factors such as use of technology. Key messages • Demand for mental health services for older adults are influenced by predisposing, enabling and behavioral factors. • Investing in financial services, social support and technology may reduce the demand for mental health services among older adults.

Comparing statistical forecasting methods for modelling respiratory virus healthcare demand

Abstract Background Emergency departments in the United Kingdom are under sustained pressure with rising demand for healthcare, gradually decreasing the functionality of the NHS. Forecasts can aid management in the allocation of appropriate healthcare supplies and staffing needs in advance of an expected surge, as well as allow stakeholders to assess most likely outcomes and potential worst-case scenarios. This is especially valuable during the seasonal waves of respiratory infections. Respiratory viruses are usually concentrated in a 6-8 week seasonal surge during the winter period, creating large pressure on the health system. Current forecast models’ performance depreciates significantly after 1 week. This analysis will forecast 6 weeks of respiratory health admissions, comparing traditional and newly emerging forecasting methods. Methods Using 20 years of English hospital admissions data, we evaluated both within season training models (2-20 weeks) and longer term seasonal models (1-10 years), to forecast 6 weeks of hospital admissions. Respiratory admissions were defined according to ARI/ILI ICD10 codes assigned in hospital, stratified by age and region. Models were iteratively constructed, trained and probabilistic forecasts were evaluated across the respiratory season of September to April using Weighted Interval Score. Averages of each model across iterations were generated for comparison. Results For non-seasonal models, shorter model training lengths created better forecast models for 6 weeks. For seasonal models, optimal training length varied across model complexity. Simple models performed best at forecasting 1 week, however performance deteriorated the most as the forecast window increased. Overall, the Prophet model performed best on average at forecasting 6 weeks across all scenarios. Conclusions Applying our framework for optimal model selection in forecasting analysis will help to inform better practice for future health demand modelling. Key messages • This analysis will inform better practice for future health demand forecasting 6 weeks in advance, allowing for preparation of resources for seasonal surges in healthcare demand. • This analysis suggests using models with modest levels of increased complexity over simpler models could significantly improve forecast performance in the short-medium term.

The HEROES (HEalth woRkfOrcE to meet health challengeS) Joint Action

Abstract Background The HEROES (HEalth woRkfOrcE to meet health challengeS) Joint Action aims to advance health workforce planning across the EU, addressing the pressing need for a resilient, sustainable, and accessible health service systems. Given the evident strain on health systems demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic, this initiative seeks to address the critical need for strategic HWF planning. Building on previous projects, HEROES will foster the capacity of EU states in workforce planning, preparing the health systems to meet future challenges. Methods The study adopts a collaborative framework involving 19 EU countries, segmented into clusters based on health system characteristics. A stepwise approach (‘AS IS,’ ‘TO BE,’ ‘TO DO’) characterizes the methodology, incorporating extensive data collection, stakeholder engagement, and scenario forecasting. Country-level information on HWF Data and Planning will be compared both across countries in clusters and across clusters. Results Initial findings indicate significant disparities in health workforce data quality, availability, and planning methodologies among the states. Identified methodologies also involve real-world data applications and predictive analytics to refine health workforce planning. Efforts are underway to define an Advanced Minimum Dataset (AMDS) to synchronize health workforce data and define planning tools across the clusters, as country-level AS IS reports have been finalized and cross-country comparisons are ongoing. Conclusions Collaborative, data-driven health workforce planning can significantly enhance health system resilience and responsiveness. Recommended public health actions include enhancing HWF data integration, forecasting capabilities, and stakeholder participation, with the aim of shaping national health policies and practices. The public health impact is profound, as it allows to improve health service delivery and workforce adaptability in response to dynamic health demands. Key messages • The HEROES Joint Action advances EU health workforce planning, with the aim of enhancing the resilience and responsiveness of health systems. • Strategic data-driven approaches in health workforce planning are pivotal for resilient, accessible and sustainable healthcare systems.

Wireless sensor network-based health monitoring and smart home assistance for the older adults in sports and wellness towns.

Integrating technology with rural development is essential for addressing the unique challenges faced by aging populations in rural areas. China's national rural revitalization strategy emphasizes the importance of developing characteristic towns that focus on health and wellness demands, particularly for the older adults. However, there is a gap in the literature regarding the systematic use of technology to support the health and daily living needs of this demographic. This study aims to bridge this gap by proposing a wireless sensor network (WSN)-based system that integrates health monitoring and smart home assistance, specifically tailored for older adults residents in sports and wellness towns. The system's design involves collecting and analyzing historical activity data and basic physiological parameters from older adults residents' homes. The data are cleaned, combined and stored to prepare it for behavior analysis, which is vital for controlling smart home equipment. Preliminary health assessments are conducted using the collected physiological data. A hybrid network leveraging Sub-G and Wi-Fi technologies is optimized for the purposes of collecting and uploading data, based on a comparative analysis of wireless communication options. This study significantly contributes to the advancement of sports and wellness towns by promoting healthy aging through cutting-edge technological solutions.

Training Community Health Workers to Respond to Public Health Demands

ABSTRACT Background Community health workers (CHWs) connect individuals to community resources and build individual competence in an effort to improve overall community/public health. There is a need for more research on how community health nurse (CHN)-led training programs are needed to help train and support CHWs. Purpose The purpose was to describe the development and evaluation of a series of CHN-led CHW trainings on CHW role, boundaries, and motivational interviewing; diabetes; mental health and long COVID; sexually transmitted infections; and lead poisoning prevention and treatment. Design This study utilized a one-group pretest-posttest design in which quantitative and qualitative data were collected. Methods The sample consisted of CHWs representing White/Caucasian, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, and Asian American populations who for each topic, completed a pretest one week prior to the training, the training, and a posttest one week after the training. The quantitative and qualitative data collected during winter and spring/summer 2023 underwent statistical and thematic analysis, respectively. Findings The results suggest that the CHW trainings were effective overall at increasing participants’ knowledge and confidence in their knowledge levels, as well as comfort with educating community members on various public health topics. Information learned and found most helpful, and application and utilization plans for this knowledge in their work were revealed. Conclusions CHWs are important for disseminating health communication and education among members of their communities, and play a key role in reducing health disparities among at-risk populations. Clinical Evidence CHN-led educational intervention is a strategy to improve CHWs’ knowledge, confidence, and comfort.

The relationship between childhood SES and health in middle and old age: evidence from China.

Drawing from the extended Grossman health capital and demand theory and the life course theory, this study examined whether childhood SES has direct and significant correlation with health in middle and old age in a specific historical context in China. A sample of 9,861 respondents was obtained from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Childhood SES was measured by objective indices of recall. Health was assessed by self-reported, physician diagnosis and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD). The Propensity Score Matching (PSM) was used to estimate the treatment effect between childhood SES and later life health. The Karlson-Holm-Breen (KHB) method was employed to examine the associative mediation effects. Compared to respondents with low SES in childhood, respondents with high SES in childhood had, on average, 5.1% more likely to report their health as good, an average 2.4% lower prevalence of chronic diseases and an average 7.6% lower in the score of depression in middle and old age. The indirect relationships of childhood health, adulthood SES and adulthood lifestyle with health in middle and old age were all significant. SES upward mobility in adulthood can diminish the association between childhood disadvantage and poor health in middle and old age. The health effects of childhood SES can persist into middle and old age, this is more noticeable in rural areas, particularly in females. The critical period, cumulative risk and social mobility models produce synergistic effects in China. Our results also promote a paradigm shift in health interventions from old age to early life for health-vulnerable populations.

Predicting public mental health needs in a crisis using social media indicators: a Singapore big data study

Mental health issues have increased substantially since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, health policymakers do not have adequate data and tools to predict mental health demand, especially amid a crisis. Using time-series data collected in Singapore, this study examines if and how algorithmically measured emotion indicators from Twitter posts can help forecast emergency mental health needs. We measured the mental health needs during 549 days from 1 July 2020 to 31 December 2021 using the public’s daily visits to the emergency room of the country’s largest psychiatric hospital and the number of users with “crisis” state assessed through a government-initiated online mental health self-help portal. Pairwise Granger-causality tests covering lag length from 1 day to 5 days indicated that forecast models using Twitter joy, anger and sadness emotions as predictors perform significantly better than baseline models using past mental health needs data alone (e.g., Joy Intensity on IMH Visits, χ2 = 14·9, P < ·001***; Sadness Count on Mindline Crisis, χ2 = 4·6, P = ·031*, with a one-day lag length). The findings highlight the potential of new early indicators for tracking emerging public mental health needs.

New insights into the strengthening of fibre-based emulsion gels by phenolic compounds

Consumer demand for plant-based meat alternatives and health concerns over animal fats have propelled the exploration of edible oil structuring techniques, for mimicking animal fat texture and functionality. In this context, the use of food polymers offers possibilities in conferring viscoelastic properties to oil structured in heterogeneous systems. Many reported examples were predominantly structured by proteins, however, which are sensitive to ionic strength. In this work, we offer an alternative approach through emulsion gel structuring using curdlan and citrus fibre, which are natural and more process-stable food polymers. This work reports insights gained on emulsion gel strengthening with the use of laccase-oxidised phenolic compounds. Our key results reveal the use of laccase-oxidised ferulic acid at millimolar concentration against 10 % (w/w) curdlan to be particularly promising, in that (i) it strengthened inter-triplex network in heat-set curdlan, as supported by the increase in glass transition temperature of curdlan; (ii) it generated quinones as determined by nitro blue tetrazolium-glycinate assay, which could crosslink interfacial fibre having trace nitrogen; and (iii) consequently, the emulsion gel system became stronger against high strain compression. Crosslinking at inter-oil-droplet bridges with well-controlled oil aggregate sizes was pivotal, and this could be optimised with suitable sequencing of formulation steps that keep the aqueous phase viscosity low during emulsification. Overall, our findings provide reference value in the creation of stiff animal fat mimetics out of unsaturated edible oils.