Unprotected Exposure Research Articles

Profile of adult care classified as non-urgent in emergency care unit

Objective: To identify the profile of care classified as non-urgent in the Emergency Care Unit (ECU). Methods: This is a descriptive, retrospective, documentary study with a quantitative approach, carried out in an ECU located in the city of Curitiba, PR, with users from 18 years of age and blue priority in the risk classification. Data were tabulated in Excel® and analyzed in SPSS® to obtain descriptive statistics, inferences and perform the chi-square test. Results: 213 medical records were analyzed, predominantly looking for young adults, with a mean age of 39 years, female. The main clinical complaints/demands reported (p<0.001) by users were: respiratory and flu problems (36%), followed by medication administration (14%) and unprotected sexual exposure (8%). Morning calls (39%) were more frequent (p<0.001), with Monday and Wednesday being the days with the highest demand (p=0.026). The most common outcome of the consultations was discharge from the unit (61%; p<0.001). Conclusion: The care of adults up to 39 years old predominated, with greater demand during the day. The clinical complaints and demands presented were not compatible with the profile and complexity intended for an urgent and emergency service.

Assessment and Modeling of Workplace Exposure to Solar Ultraviolet Radiation in Makurdi, Nigeria

Solar radiation though beneficial to life but the harmful effects of over exposure especially in Nigeria has been neglected and its measurement/prediction has received negligible attention in the literature. This study measured and modeled workplace exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (SUVR) in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria. Digital broadband meter was used to measure solar power density in three site while polymer Polysolphone dosimeters were fitted on a human manikin and placed in the sun between 10:00 am- 4:00pm (6 hours) to quantify the amount of Solar UVR absorbed by three occupational workers (Traders, Fishermen and Staff/Students). Five dosimeters were deployed in each of the three sites for calibration to measure UV absorbance in J/m2 while seven in each site were used for body parts. UV/VIS-spectrophotometer was handily used to measure both post and pre-absorbance and the UV exposures were calculated. The UV index was also calculated. Result shows that, head top had the highest exposure values 7.19kJ/m2, 6.51kJ/m2 and 7.00kJ/m2, while the least values was under cloth cover 2.47kJ/m2, 2.08kJ/m2 and 2.20kJ/m2 for traders, fishermen and staff/students respectively. Similarly, the calculated cumulative exposures were 3289.36kJ/m2, 497.82kJ/m2 and 1515.60kJ/m2 at the market square, river bank and the campus respectively. These values were higher than international ICNIRP average value 30J/m2. UV index at market square was 9 (media graphic colour purple), while at river bank and BSU campus was 8 (media graphic colour reddish). High mean irradiant values with high UV index indicates high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Therefore, use of sun protective clothing is recommended and reduce time in the sun especially between 1:00pm and 2:00pm to prevent over exposure that will lead to serious harmful effects especially at the market place.

Impact of Solar Eclipses on Vision: Insights from Optical Coherence Tomography and Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Analysis*

Purpose Solar retinopathy, resulting from solar eclipse exposure, poses risks to visual health. This study explores acute and chronic phase findings using clinical examinations and optical coherence tomography (OCT) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) with a focus on longitudinal assessment. Methods Seven eyes with a history of unprotected solar eclipse exposure were included. Clinical examination, fundus photography, OCT, and OCT-A imaging were performed at initial assessment, as well as at one-month and six-month follow-up intervals. Data analysis included descriptive statistics. Results The cases, exposed without protection, underwent assessments, revealing variable visual acuity, outer retinal layer, and Henle fiber layer changes during follow-up. Regression of hyperreflectivity within the outer retinal and Henle fiber layers was observed over time in all eyes, although persistent microdefects within the outer retinal layer were noted in specific cases. OCT-A imaging revealed a larger foveal avascular zone, which persisted over a six-month period in select cases. Additionally, affected eyes exhibited a decrease in superficial vascular density, with subsequent improvement noted during the six-month period. Conclusion Solar retinopathy can result in visual impairment, accompanied by alterations observed in the Henle fiber layer using OCT. Additionally, OCT-A findings indicate possible vascular involvement. This study underscores the significance of adopting protective measures during solar eclipses and emphasizes the value of employing longitudinal multimodal imaging techniques to comprehend the pathophysiology of the condition.

Solar retinopathy: A literature review.

Solar retinopathy (SR) refers to retinal injury that results from unprotected excessive exposure to light. It has been associated with direct sungazing, sunbathing, laser pointers, and welding arc exposure. Symptoms are typically bilateral and are characterized by asymmetric decreased vision, central or paracentral scotoma, photophobia, metamorphopsia, and headache. In most cases, recovery occurs spontaneously with no specific treatment within weeks to 6 months after exposure. However, few cases have been reported in the literature using steroids in acute SR because of their anti-inflammatory effects. The aim of this review is to present an update about this entity, describing the pathogenesis, risk factors, and diagnostic methods, with focus on management and outcomes of SR.

Evaluation of Medical Students’ Knowledge and Their Adherence to Safety Measures Regarding Solar Ultraviolet Exposure

Ultraviolet radiation, a type of electromagnetic radiation, can be released by both artificial and natural sources, including the sun. It is imperative to adopt the appropriate safety measures when close to an ultraviolet radiation source, as unprotected UV radiation exposure has been associated with a higher risk of developing various illnesses, such as skin tumors. This study aims to evaluate undergraduate medical students' knowledge of potential hazards from UV radiation exposure and their practice of safety measures. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Omar Al-Mukhtar University, Al-Beyda City, Libya. One hundred and nine medical students were involved in this study. The questionnaire examined participants' knowledge of and behavior toward potential risks associated with ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. Notably, 77.1% of them were female, and 22.9% were male. The majority of the respondents were more than 22 years old. Above half, 59.6% showed moderate knowledge about UV exposure consequences; most of the students, 91%, knew the side effects of UV on health, followed by 86%, who indicated that UV can cause premature aging and cancer. In contrast, less than a third knew that UV has a negative impact on the immune system, and about two-thirds (73.9%) didn't realize that sunburn can occur even on a cloudy day. Although medical students showed a moderate level of knowledge regarding UV radiation, there was a lack of active sun safety measures.

DABCO-PEG ionic liquid catalyzed synthesis, single-crystal structure, and antioxidant activity of a flavanone derivative

Globally, the occurrence of skin cancers has been increasing day by day due to unprotected skin and exposure to UV radiation. This research is focused toward the evaluation of the antioxidant potential of an OH-free flavanone derivative that was synthesized by using 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane–polyethylene glycol (DABCO-PEG) 400. Ionic liquid was prepared via the alkylation of DABCO using 1-pentyl bromide followed by mixing with PEG 400. The structure of the synthesized molecules was characterized through single-crystal XRD. The target flavanone, viz., 2-(4-isobutylphenyl)chroman-4-one, was subjected to free radical activity. In addition, in silico studies were carried out with proteins ribonucleotide reductase and tyrosinase and isobutyl containing flavanone, viz., 2-(4-isobutylphenyl)chroman-4-one. The flavanone 2-(4-isobutylphenyl)chroman-4-one showed significant inhibition at a concentration of 25 μg/ml compared to vitamin C, which was also supported by the molecular docking studies. The flavanones exhibit binding energies of −6.45 and −6.83 kcal/mol for ribonucleotide reductase and tyrosinase, respectively. The results were further validated by molecular dynamic simulations, which recommended that further investigation of this flavanone must be carried out before using it in potent drug discovery in the field of skin cancer.

Lower Hematocrit is Associated with High Oxidative Stress and Low Antioxidant Status in Men Occupationally Exposed to Petrol

Abstract Context: The organic compounds in petrol are known to adversely affect the hematopoietic system. Occupational exposure to these volatile compounds can lead to heightened oxidative stress and the consumption of antioxidants. Aim: This study aimed to assess the effect of occupational exposure to petrol on hematological parameters and markers of oxidative stress among petrol station pump attendants and roadside black market petrol vendors in a metropolitan city in Nigeria. Settings and Design: This is a comparative cross-sectional study that assessed the effects of occupational petrol exposure on hematological parameters, antioxidant vitamins (C and E), and oxidative stress marker – malondialdehyde (MDA) – of petrol station pump attendants and roadside black-market petrol vendors aged ≥18 years in Kano metropolis. Materials and Methods: Forty (40) participants were recruited from each of the three groups (n = 120). Healthy blood donors were recruited as a control group. Complete blood counts, reticulocyte count, and biochemical assays for vitamins C and E and MDA were performed using standard enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay methods. Analysis Used: Data were analyzed using R Studio v4.3.0. Mean values of laboratory parameters were compared between the three groups using analysis of variance, with Tunkey-HSD post-hoc analyses. A P value of <0.05 was considered significant. Results: There was significantly lower hematocrit (P = 0.0173) and higher mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC, P value = 0.0206) in occupationally exposed individuals (n = 80) compared to healthy controls. When compared by the duration of exposure (<2 yrs vs ≥2 yrs), only the mean granulocyte count was significantly different (P value = 0.009) in the two groups. Exposed individuals have significantly higher MDA (P value = 0.000) and lower vitamin C levels (P value = 0.031), with higher Vitamin E levels (P value = 0.015). Conclusion: Prolonged unprotected occupational exposure to petrol has adverse effects on the human hematopoietic system, possibly through oxidative stress and proinflammatory mechanisms.

Awareness of Endemics Fighting Agents about Sun Exposure

Introduction: Sunlight plays a crucial role in sustaining human life, however, its impacts vary according to factors such as duration of exposure, intensity and frequency. These impacts can be beneficial, such as the synthesis of vitamin D and the stimulation of melanin production, which have positive effects on the human body. However, inadequate and unprotected exposure to solar radiation can cause damage to the body, such as premature aging and, ultimately, the development of skin cancer. The objective of this study was to analyze whether awareness had an impact on the habits of Endemic Disease Control Agents in the municipality of Ourinhos-SP in relation to sun exposure. Method: The research was carried out using a questionnaire on sun exposure and photoprotection, which contains 11 questions regarding photoprotection and sun exposure habits, applied to 27 (twenty-seven) agents combating endemic vector diseases, in Ourinhos- SP, after a period of two months, the same questionnaire was administered again. Results: A total of 14.8% of participants do not apply sunscreen daily, while 40.7% of those who use sunscreen apply it twice a day and 92.6% use a hat, cap or visor as a protective measure against sunscreen. sun exposure. Conclusion: It is concluded that, despite the high risk of developing skin cancer, these professionals demonstrate greater awareness.

Awareness of risk factors associated with tubal infertility among female youth corps members in Benin City, Nigeria

Infertility is the inability to achieve pregnancy within one year of regular unprotected coital exposures. It is a common gynecological problem in our environment. The cause of infertility could be of female origin, male origin, a combination of both, or idiopathic. It can be primary when there is no previous pregnancy, or secondary infertility when there is an inability to conceive after a previous conception. In secondary infertility, a tubal factor is the most typical cause globally. In a review of factors associated with tubal factor infertility in a tertiary hospital in southern Nigeria, the tubal aspect constituted 13.5%. It was due to previous post-abortion sepsis, puerperal sepsis, and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). Awareness of infertility risk factors is an essential first step to safeguard future fertility; however, several studies demonstrated poor knowledge of tubal infertility and its risk factors, especially among infertile couples and couples attending gynecology clinics. This study assesses the knowledge of female youth corps members in Benin City, Edo State, on tubal factor infertility, its risk factors, and management. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among female youth corps members in Benin City using a multi-stage sampling technique. A self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. The data was entered and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 25.0 (IBM SPSS V 25.0, Chicago, IL, USA) and presented using tables. From this study, there is good knowledge of the burden of tubal infertility and treatment implications (50.4%). However, the knowledge of tubal infertility (34.3%) and its risk factors (27.0%) was poor. Age, marriage, and the medical profession are associated with sound knowledge of the burden of tubal infertility (p=0.02). However, only the medical profession is independently associated with good knowledge of tubal infertility (AOR=2.963, p=0.006, CI=1.370-6.411). There is generally poor knowledge of tubal infertility among females of reproductive age, who are at higher risk of pelvic inflammatory disease being the most typical risk factor for tubal infertility. This calls for more health awareness programs for the youth to help safeguard their future fertility.

An Ayurvedic Management of Kitibha Kustha with special reference to Psoriasis

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition marked by elevated patches of unusual skin that are red, pink, or purple in color. These patches are dry, itchy, and covered in scales. The severity of psoriasis ranges from minor, limited areas to affecting the entire body. In recent years, the prevalence of psoriasis has increased. Factors like excessive cosmetic use, unhealthy dietary patterns, unprotected exposure to pesticides, nutritional deficiencies, psychological stress, and sedentary behavior are common lifestyle alterations that might contribute to this condition. Case: A 49-year-old male patient suffering from 5 years visited the hospital for treatment. From an Ayurvedic perspective, we can compare the disease with Kitibha kustha (a type of skin lesion) because most of its symptoms mimic the signs and symptoms of Plaque psoriasis. Conclusion: Even though plaque psoriasis is very difficult to treat, a thorough assessment of pathogenesis, proper Shodhana (purification), Shamana (pacifying therapy), and rasayana (rejuvenation therapy) have proven to be effective along with a swinging decrease of PASI, and DLQI from 36.8, 12 to 3.2 and 2.

Assessment of cellular damage with cytome assay among environmental/occupational triazole

The use of triazole fungicides is common in Minas Gerais, Brazil. However, the risk arising from excessive and often unprotected exposure can be harmful to farmers. Therefore, we evaluated volunteers, exposed to triazole fungicides for cellular damage caused by this pesticide. In the buccal micronucleus cytome assay (BMCyt), cells were analyzed. Urinary triazoles were analyzed by the Liquid-Liquid Extraction coupled with Gas-chromatography/mass-spectrometry (LLE-GC/MS). Statistical differences were found for all cell types evaluated in residents of rural areas (n = 145). Analysis of variance showed statistical difference in kariolytic and pyknotic cells, between the groups of men and women living in rural areas, with higher incidence in the male group. Likewise, higher concentrations triazoles in urine samples in the male group were observed. Greater cellular damage suggests increases in DNA damage, chromossomal instability and cell deaths. The results showed the urgency of the public management with the implementation of measures to minimize the pesticides exposure.

Use of multiple correspondence analysis to explore associations between caregivers and sun protective habits during summer vacations.

Childhood exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) plays an important role in the development of keratinocyte carcinomas and melanomas. Therefore, sun protective measures ought to be implemented during early childhood. Young children are largely dependent upon adult care providers in order to achieve proper sun protection. To develop effective photoprotection in children, it is necessary to understand caregivers' attitudes and knowledge about UVR exposure. This study aimed to explore the variables associated with sun protective behaviour in parents and grandparents during summer vacations. A multinational, cross-sectional study was conducted using a web-based online survey with a representative sample of parents and grandparents of children aged ≤ 12 years, who cared for their children/grandchildren for at least 2 weeks during the summer of 2021, in five countries (France, Germany, Spain, Italy and the USA). Multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) was used to explore in an unbiased way the possible relationships among all the variables and to identify specific profiles. A total of 6190 adult participants responded to the questionnaire: 5104 parents (average age 42.0 years, 54.3% women) and 1086 grandparents (average age 64.2 years, 55.5% women). MCA allowed discrimination of two groups of respondents based on their answers: a profile with 'unprotected sun exposure habits' vs. those with 'protective sun exposure habits'. Parents fell in closer proximity to the 'unprotected sun exposure habits', and 'sunburn reported in youngest child'. Grandparents adopted more cautious behaviours than parents. Nevertheless, grandparents fell in proximity to 'having exposed the grandchild to the sun between 11 h and 17.00 h', 'not using an umbrella' and 'not using sunglasses'. Although grandparents appear to adopt more cautious behaviours than parents, many gaps in proper sun protection behaviour were observed in both groups of caregivers.

Patterns of Sun Protection Behaviours among Australian Adolescents and Adults over a Six-Year Period.

The major cause for skin cancer is the excessive and unprotected exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR), which can be prevented by engaging in sun protection behaviours. As longitudinal studies on both adolescents' and adults' performances of sun protection behaviours are limited, the current study aimed to investigate changes in sun protection in these population segments in Western Australia, a region with high annual UVR. During six summer seasons (2015/16 to 2020/21), cross-sectional surveys were conducted among 1806 adolescents (14 to 17 years old) and 1808 adults (18-45 years old), investigating the frequency of five sun protection behaviours (wearing clothing, applying sunscreen, wearing a hat, wearing sunglasses, and seeking shade) and sun avoidance (staying indoors). Over the six-year period, staying indoors increased in both groups. Among adolescents, a decrease in wearing clothing and sunglasses and an increase in seeking shade was demonstrated, and hat and sunscreen use remained relatively stable. Among adults, an increase in sunscreen use was shown, whereas all other sun-related behaviours remained consistent over the six-year period. The results from this study can provide directions for health communications focusing on improving sun protection behaviours among both adolescent and adult populations.

An Empirical Analysis on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among Recently Diagnosed Cancer Patients: A Study in Visakhapatnam

Nowadays cancer is the most threatening illness to human wellbeing. Cancer is a complex illness which is highly stressful and can be traumatic. Emotional responses to this experience can range from acute fear, sadness, and anger to enduring adjustment difficulties, anxiety, and depression. The main objective of this paper is to evaluate the prevalence, predictors, and correlates of cancer-related PTSD symptoms and diagnoses. The research approach of the study is an integrated research approach. The study adopted a descriptive research design and applied a convenience sampling method. The study selected 50 respondents who diagnosed cancer recently and collected the data through a pre-tested, unstructured interview schedule. The study found that majority of the respondents (n=16) are affected by breast cancer, chemotherapy and radiotherapy (n=19) are the most common and preferred methods of treatment and the respondents had relative knowledge about PTSD. Highest scoring items were "I am having strong physical reactions when something reminds me of the stressful experience" (M=3.92, SD=0.24) and "Feeling distant from people" (M=3.92, SD=0.24). The lowest scoring item was "I suddenly feel or act as if the stressful experience was happening again" (M=3.42, SD=0.22). The study found that after being diagnosed with skin cancer, most participants had changed their ways, especially around unprotected sun exposure. The study suggested that the new interventions should be designed prevent cancer and provide the care, support and treatment to cancer patients. Keywords: Post-traumatic stress disorder, Cancer, physical health

Skin cancer screening and sun safety education program for high school students in southern California.

e22505 Background: Decreasing unprotected exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation during childhood can significantly decrease the risk of developing skin cancer as an adult. School-based sun safety curricula have demonstrated efficacy in teaching young adults about the harms of prolonged, unprotected UV exposure and have been effective in increasing safety practices. This project provided a 50-min sun safety curriculum to high school students at a public high school in San Diego, CA just prior to the summer break in 2022. The curriculum addressed skin cancer risk factors, skin protection methods, the benefits of limiting lifetime UV exposure, and methods for performing a skin self exam. The study objective was to assess sun safety knowledge before and after the class, and measure behavior changes three months thereafter when students returned from summer break. Methods: The sun safety classes were taught in groups of 40-60 students across six class periods in June 2022. Students were asked to complete an anonymous pre-participation online survey assessing their knowledge of common skin cancer types and skin cancer risk factors. Students were taught the curriculum over 45 minutes with 5 minutes reserved for questions. Two follow-ups surveys were conducted with the students, one at the end of the class period and a second follow-up three months later. Follow-up surveys assessed retention of knowledge and changes in sun safety behavior. Students had the option of providing a cell phone number so they could be contacted to participate in the second follow-up survey. Results: The curriculum was taught to nine classes of approximately 300 students in a single day across six class periods. A total of 206 students completed the pre-participation survey. At the first follow-up, 95.1% of students completed the post-participation survey and students showed significant improvement in knowledge of common skin cancer types (12.6% pre-participation to 68.9% post-participation), skin cancer risk factors (11.2% pre-participation to 16.8% post-participation), and skin cancer prevention methods (22.8% pre-participation to 45.9% post-participation). For the second follow-up, 128 students provided contact information and the survey had a response rate of 71.5%. After 3 months, students demonstrated retention of knowledge of skin cancer types and risk factors. A majority (87.2%) of students indicated that their use of sunscreen had increased and 57.4% indicated that their use of sun protective barriers had increased over the summer because of this course. Conclusions: This pilot course demonstrates that targeted sun safety education for teenagers before summer break can significantly increase sun safety awareness, adoption of protective behaviors, and knowledge about skin cancer. Such an intervention can promote skin cancer awareness at a young age where behavior changes can decrease lifetime risk of skin cancer.

Demographic and risk characteristics of healthcare workers infected with SARS-CoV-2 from two tertiary care hospitals in the United Arab Emirates.

Understanding the transmission dynamics of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection among healthcare workers (HCWs) and their social contacts is crucial to plan appropriate risk-reduction measures. To analyze the socio-demographic risk factors and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 infection among HCWs in two tertiary care hospitals in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The demographic and clinical characteristics were available for all HCWs in both facilities from the human resources department. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January-April 2022 among HCWs who tested positive through Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction of the nasopharyngeal swab for SARS-CoV-2 between March 2020 and August 2021 in two tertiary-level hospitals. The survey included questions on demographics, work profile, characteristics of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and infection among their household or co-workers. The survey also checked the knowledge and perception of participants on the infection prevention measures related to SARS-CoV-2. Out of a total of 346 HCWs infected with SARS-CoV-2, 286 (82.7%) HCWs consented to participate in this study. From the sample population, 150 (52.5%) of participants were female, and a majority (230, 80.4%) were frontline HCWs, including 121 nurses (121, 42.4%). Only 48 (16.8%) participants were fully vaccinated at the time of infection. Most infected HCWs (85%) were unaware of any unprotected exposure and were symptomatic at the time of testing (225, 78.7%). Nearly half of the participants (140, 49%) had co-infection among household, and nearly one-third (29.5%) had co-infection among three or more household. Another 108 (37.8%) participants reported cross-infection among co-workers. The frontline HCWs were significantly more infected (25.1% vs 8.6%, P < 0.001) compared to non-frontline HCWs. Another significant risk factor for a high infection rate was male sex (P < 0.001). Among the infected frontline HCWs, a significantly higher proportion were male and shared accommodation with family (P < 0.001). COVID-19 vaccination significantly reduced the infection rate (83.2% vs 16.8, P < 0.001) among HCWs. Most participants (99.3%) were aware about importance of appropriate use of personal protective equipment. However, only 70% agreed with the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccination in preventing an infection and severe disease. The risk profiling of the HCWs infected with SARS-CoV-2 found that working at frontline and being male increase the rate of infection. COVID-19 vaccination can effectively reduce the rate of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among HCWs.

The goods (and bads) of self‐employment

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In Vitro Photoprotection and Functional Photostability of Sunscreen Lipsticks Containing Inorganic Active Compounds

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a safe inorganic ultraviolet (UV) filter with activity against UV damage. However, the recombination of the carrier’s charge and the tendency for TiO2 aggregation are the main disadvantages. Substrate supports, such as mesoporous silica, are biocompatible strategies to incorporate TiO2, altering its interaction with the skin. Since the lips are sensitive to the adversities of the environment, including UV radiation, the application of lipstick sunscreens is of great importance and expected to provide protection for this particular area against sunburn and photoaging, among other unfavorable responses unprotected UV exposure. We investigated the in vitro photoprotective efficacy and photostability of lipstick formulations containing TiO2 incorporated into mesoporous silica (SBA-15). The samples were the lipstick base; SBA-15; TiO2 (free form); and TiO2 incorporated into SBA-15. The photoprotective efficacy was characterized in vitro using a Labsphere UV2000S. Lipsticks were irradiated in a Suntest CPS+ chamber to evaluate functional photostability. Lipstick base and SBA-15 alone did not display photoprotective efficacy. The sample containing 10.0% TiO2 incorporated into the mesoporous silica generated greater photostability and sun protection factor (SPF) value compared to the one containing only 10.0% TiO2 (free state). Our findings suggest that TiO2 + SBA-15 can be considered a broad-spectrum ingredient for innovative sunscreens, particularly for the photoprotection of the lips.

Healthcare workers’ willingness to report to work during a pandemic in southeastern Nigeria: A hypothetical case using Ebola virus disease

Background: The Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak of 2014–2016 in West Africa was the world’s deadliest to date, and the World Health Organization declared it an international health emergency. It adversely affected the health system with many healthcare workers (HCWs) being worried about going to work. Objective: This study therefore aimed at determining the willingness of HCWs to report to work in an outbreak of EVD. Materials and Methods: A semi-structured, self-administered, questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 360 doctors, nurses, and medical laboratory workers in public and private health facilities in Enugu Metropolis. Results: Seventy-three percent (73%) of our respondents were willing to report to work during an outbreak of EVD. Nurses were about five times more likely to be willing to work than other categories of staff [odd ratio (OR) = 4.999; confidence interval (CI)= 2.15–11.597; P < 0.001] and female HCWs were about 1.3 times more likely to be willing to work than males during an EVD outbreak (OR =1.275; CI=0.743–2.815; P = 0.049). Availability of vaccination for healthcare staff (88.6%) and family members (79.2%) were the greatest personal and family-related motivating factors for willingness to work, whereas the provision of antiviral treatment for staff with unprotected exposure to an ill patient (78.1%) was the greatest work motivating factor. However, passion for work surpassed increased remuneration (61.4%) as a personal motivating factor for HCWs willingness to report to work during an EVD outbreak. Conclusion: Our study showed that HCWs were largely willing to work during an EVD outbreak. Personal vaccination for staff and family members and provision of antivirals were the major motivating factors.

Sun exposure and protection practices among Florida college marching band members and alumni: a cross-sectional study.

In the USA, skin cancer is the most common cancer, more than all other cancers combined. Skin cancer may be prevented by using sun protection. This is particularly important in 18-29-year-olds who, compared to older individuals, experience sunburns more frequently. Moreover, in locations close to the equator, such as Florida, people are at an increased risk of developing melanoma. College marching band members spend a significant amount of time in the sun, as much as 25h weekly practicing and performing at games, yet little is known about this population. We examined and compared sun exposure and protection practices among Florida college marching band members and alumni. In 2020, anonymouscross-sectional web-based surveys were distributed via email and private Facebook groups. A total of 859 members and alumni of five Florida university marching bands participated. Questionnaires assessed demographic characteristics, sun protection behaviors, as well as history of sunburn and skin cancer. Analyses of variance and multiple linear regression analyses were employed to compare sun protection practices between band members and alumni. During sunny day practices, only 16.1% (63/391) of alumni and 27.1% (127/468) of current band members always wore sunscreen. In the multiple linear regression, after adjusting for gender, race/ethnicity, and family history of skin cancer, alumni, who participated in marching band practices within the past 50years, were significantly less likely to wear sunscreen or hats compared to current band members. Overall, men were less likely to wear sunscreen but were more likely to wear hats and shirts with sleeves that cover their shoulders compared to women. Compared to the general US population in 2017 (0.38%), alumni of Florida college marching bands in 2020 (2.04%) have a self-reported increase in melanoma prevalence of 1.66%. Of note, melanoma diagnoses were only reported by alumni who self-identified as non-Hispanic white; none of the non-Hispanic black, Hispanic, or other alumni reported a melanoma diagnosis. As skin cancer incidence continues to rise, it is critical that leaders in the marching band community continually address unprotected sun exposure, by promoting protective practices, as well as modifying attitudes and behaviors regarding sun exposure and protection.