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Open Access December 10, 2024

Psychological Corollaries, Self-Care and Coping Behaviors of Healthcare Workers During COVID-19 Pandemic: An Integrative Review

Abstract Background: The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant psychological challenges to frontline healthcare workers (HCWs), including anxiety, stress, and emotional strain. Aim: This study investigates the psychological impact on HCWs during the pandemic and explores coping strategies employed to manage distress. Methods: An integrative review was conducted using 24 studies published [...] Read more.
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant psychological challenges to frontline healthcare workers (HCWs), including anxiety, stress, and emotional strain. Aim: This study investigates the psychological impact on HCWs during the pandemic and explores coping strategies employed to manage distress. Methods: An integrative review was conducted using 24 studies published between January and December 2020. These studies were analyzed to identify common psychological outcomes and coping mechanisms among HCWs. Results: Healthcare workers experienced significant psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic, including anxiety, stress, insomnia, and depression. Anxiety was the most commonly reported issue, particularly among women, younger healthcare workers, and frontline staff. Stress levels were heightened by high workloads, exposure to COVID-19 patients, and inadequate protective measures. Coping strategies and self-care behaviors, such as seeking social support and utilizing institutional resources, varied in effectiveness across populations. Conclusion: The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted mental health support and resilience programs for HCWs, ensuring they are better equipped to face future health crises.
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Integrative Review
Open Access February 27, 2024

Clinical characteristics of patients with multiple respiratory viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic period

Abstract Respiratory virus co-infections have been suggested to happen frequently and exacerbate patients’ conditions, but little is known about the detailed rates and the combinations of viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic period. A total of 255 symptomatic patients who underwent multiplex PCR tests were analyzed, and it was found that 6 (6/255=2.4%) patients were infected with multiple viruses. The [...] Read more.
Respiratory virus co-infections have been suggested to happen frequently and exacerbate patients’ conditions, but little is known about the detailed rates and the combinations of viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic period. A total of 255 symptomatic patients who underwent multiplex PCR tests were analyzed, and it was found that 6 (6/255=2.4%) patients were infected with multiple viruses. The patients ranged in age from 1 to 38 years, and one female patient was pregnant. Of the 6 patients, 4 had fever, and 5 had human rhinovirus/enterovirus and another virus. These data suggested that the rate of respiratory virus co-infection was low, and the combination of SAS-CoV-2 and other viruses was rare even during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Commentary
Open Access October 31, 2023

Role of Probiotics and Colchicine in COVID-19 Management?

Abstract Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a newly emerging human disease caused by a novel coronavirus, causing a global pandemic crisis. Probiotics and/or colchicine may be considered as options for treatment since they have anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. The aim of the current review was to assess the effectiveness of probiotic supplements and [...] Read more.
Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a newly emerging human disease caused by a novel coronavirus, causing a global pandemic crisis. Probiotics and/or colchicine may be considered as options for treatment since they have anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. The aim of the current review was to assess the effectiveness of probiotic supplements and colchicine on symptoms, duration, and progression of mild and moderate cases of COVID-19 infection. Review: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in the United States with 182 participants who were randomly assigned to receive daily oral probiotic (Lactobacillus rhamnosus) LGG or placebo for 28 days. The study indicated that LGG is well-tolerated and is associated with a delay in the onset of COVID-19 infection, a reduction in the incidence of symptoms, and alterations in the structure of the gut microbiome when administered as post-exposure prophylaxis within seven days of exposure. Colchicine may lessen mortality and the need for mechanical ventilation in mild-to-moderate COVID-19 patients, according to a systematic review and meta-analysis. Conclusion: Probiotics and/or colchicine may be viable treatment options for COVID-19 patients. To examine the efficacy of probiotics and colchicine in the treatment of COVID-19, it is necessary to conduct additional clinical trials and provide clinicians with evidence, as there are currently insufficient studies to support this conclusion.
Brief Review
Open Access October 11, 2023

Quality of Life Assessment of Health Record Professionals Working in a Tertiary Health Facility, during the COVID 19 Pandemic in South Western Nigeria

Abstract Background: There is paucity of data on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among Health Information Managers/Health Record Officers (HROs) in the Nigeria health system. Hence, this study investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on health-related quality of life (QoL) among HROs in Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife, Nigeria. Methods: A [...] Read more.
Background: There is paucity of data on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among Health Information Managers/Health Record Officers (HROs) in the Nigeria health system. Hence, this study investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on health-related quality of life (QoL) among HROs in Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the University Hospital, where a total of 52 health record officers were purposively sampled. Relevant data were collected using the Short Form survey (SF-36v2) questionnaire. One-way ANOVA was used to determine mean group differences across the nine and the two QoL (physical and mental) summary domains based on respondents’ socio-demographics, while level of significance was set at 0.05. Results: All the QoL sections of the instrument used yielded an α-Cronbach’s score of > 0.70. Analysis of some QoL physical component dimensions showed that; Bodily pain (BP) was found to be significantly (P=0.032) associated with marital status, Physical functioning (PF) with gender (P=0.023), and general health (GH) with age group (P=00.025) and highest level of education (P=0.023). On the other hand, mental health component analysis revealed that Social Functioning (SF) was associated with age group (P=014), Role limitation (RE) with marital status (P=0.048), highest level of education (P=0.048) and years of service (P=0.015) etc. Conclusion: The QoL among HROs studied was generally above average, and demographic characteristics such as age, gender and marital status significantly influence QoL. Health managers and stakeholders should consider some of the factors identified in managing HROs.
Article
Open Access October 07, 2023

A Systematic Review of Observational Studies Focusing on Impact of Telehealth Consultation in Osteoporosis Management during the Pandemic

Abstract Background: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted routine osteoporosis care due to clinic closures and limited in-person consultations. Telehealth emerged as an alternative model enabling remote care delivery and monitoring. However, previous reviews on telehealth either did not include the pandemic period or had a limited focus in scope. Evidence synthesized specifically for osteoporosis care [...] Read more.
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted routine osteoporosis care due to clinic closures and limited in-person consultations. Telehealth emerged as an alternative model enabling remote care delivery and monitoring. However, previous reviews on telehealth either did not include the pandemic period or had a limited focus in scope. Evidence synthesized specifically for osteoporosis care during the pandemic is needed but lacking. Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and CINAHL for studies on telehealth for osteoporosis published between January 2021 and March 2023. Five studies met the inclusion criteria of: osteoporosis population, telehealth intervention, and COVID-19 pandemic timeframe. Data was extracted on study characteristics, COVID-19 outcomes, osteoporosis status, telehealth purpose, patient satisfaction, and clinical outcomes. Result: The five studies showed telehealth was used for monitoring data, delivering test results, adjusting medications, and assessments. Osteoporosis prevalence among telehealth users ranged 30-100%. High patient satisfaction was reported with telehealth versus in-person care. No major differences occurred in medication delays or fractures between telehealth and in-person groups. Conclusion: This review found telehealth enables effective osteoporosis care and monitoring during the pandemic, with high patient and provider satisfaction. However, more robust randomized controlled trials are needed to establish stronger evidence around telehealth's impacts on clinical osteoporosis outcomes. Implications: Though promising, further high-quality studies will help clarify telehealth's role in improving osteoporosis care and outcomes. Findings inform guidelines on integrating telehealth into routine management. Evidence on user perspectives optimizes telehealth implementation policies.
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Systematic Review
Open Access July 28, 2023

Should not we vaccinate the public against seasonal influenza all over the year in COVID-19 era?

Abstract The pandemic of the SARS-CoV2 (COVID-19) that was declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) on 11 March 2020 is still ongoing. One of the early recommendations from CDC and other international agencies is the seasonal influenza vaccination to decrease the effects and burden of COVID-19 pandemic. This review suggests that during COVID-19 pandemic vaccination against seasonal influenza should [...] Read more.
The pandemic of the SARS-CoV2 (COVID-19) that was declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) on 11 March 2020 is still ongoing. One of the early recommendations from CDC and other international agencies is the seasonal influenza vaccination to decrease the effects and burden of COVID-19 pandemic. This review suggests that during COVID-19 pandemic vaccination against seasonal influenza should be conducted all over the year, even for young age groups, because of several reasons. First, the complications of seasonal influenza, especially pneumonia, could increase the burden on the saturated healthcare systems worldwide. Second, the resemblance of symptoms and signs of both seasonal influenza and COVID-19 will difficult diagnosing and isolation of COVID-19 patients. Third, it has been postulated that there is a cross immunity between seasonal influenza and COVID-19.
Mini Review
Open Access April 11, 2023

Healthcare Management Challenges and Opportunities during COVID Pandemic

Abstract This review aimed to analyze some problems and challenges that emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic since it has affected all global business sectors. During the pandemic, remote work was increased in response to social distance requirements to decrease the transmission of disease. In addition, increased delegation, teamwork, supply chains, sales activities, and business operations have all been [...] Read more.
This review aimed to analyze some problems and challenges that emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic since it has affected all global business sectors. During the pandemic, remote work was increased in response to social distance requirements to decrease the transmission of disease. In addition, increased delegation, teamwork, supply chains, sales activities, and business operations have all been disrupted. Many challenges have emerged in the management of organizations due to the pandemic including the lack of direct contact as the lockdown made many people work from home and placed restrictions on movement and travel and uncertainty about the future. The healthcare system was also affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and faced several difficulties including increased demand for medical supplies and personal protective equipment, a greater need for nurses and other skilled healthcare professionals, and increased pressure on healthcare facilities, emergency services, and critical care departments. These challenges have created some opportunities in the management systems of healthcare organizations and other sectors. It is recommended for leaders prepare and continuously work proactively to be ready for unexpected future crises. Risk management and planning for any unexpected situation are among the very important aspects of organizational management.
Brief Review
Open Access November 29, 2022

The Application of Machine Learning in the Corona Era, With an Emphasis on Economic Concepts and Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract The aim of this article is to examine the impacts of Coronavirus Disease -19 (Covid-19) vaccines on economic condition and sustainable development goals. In other words, we are going to study the economic condition during Covid19. We have studied the economic costs of pandemic, benefits in terms of gross domestic product (GDP), public finances and employment, investment on vaccines around the [...] Read more.
The aim of this article is to examine the impacts of Coronavirus Disease -19 (Covid-19) vaccines on economic condition and sustainable development goals. In other words, we are going to study the economic condition during Covid19. We have studied the economic costs of pandemic, benefits in terms of gross domestic product (GDP), public finances and employment, investment on vaccines around the world, progress and totally the economic impacts of vaccines and the impacts of emerging markets (EM) on achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs), including no poverty, good health and well-being, zero hunger, reduced inequality etc. The importance of emerging economies in reducing the harmful effects of the Corona has also been noted. We have tried to do experimental results and forecast daily new death cases from Feb-2020 to Aug-2021 in Iran using Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Beetle Antennae Search (BAS) algorithm as a case study with econometric models and regression analysis. The findings show that Covid19 has had devastating economic and health effects on the world, and the vaccine can be very helpful in eliminating these effects specially in long-term. We observed that there is inequality in the distribution of Corona vaccines in rich countries compared to poor which EM can decrease the gap between them. The results show that both models (i.e., Artificial intelligence (AI) and econometric models) almost have the same results but AI optimization models can robust the model and prediction. The main contribution of this article is that we have surveyed the impacts of vaccination from socio-economic viewpoint not just report some facts and truth. We have surveyed the impacts of vaccines on sustainable development goals and the role of EM in achieving SDGs. In addition to using the theoretical framework, we have also used quantitative and empirical results that have rarely been seen in other articles.
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Open Access August 24, 2022

Epidemiological and Clinical Profile of Deaths due to COVID-19 among Hospitalized Patients in Sidama Region, Ethiopia

Abstract Novel corona virus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, which started in China's Hubei province in 2019, has caused a significant loss of human lives globally. This study describes the epidemiologic and clinical profiles of COVID-19 related deaths among patients admitted to treatment centers in Sidama region, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study of 186 in hospital COVID-19 related deaths that occurred from [...] Read more.
Novel corona virus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, which started in China's Hubei province in 2019, has caused a significant loss of human lives globally. This study describes the epidemiologic and clinical profiles of COVID-19 related deaths among patients admitted to treatment centers in Sidama region, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study of 186 in hospital COVID-19 related deaths that occurred from July 2020 to December 2021 in Sidama region were analyzed. Data was extracted from regional emergency operation center death report. Data was entered using Epidata v3.1 and analysis was done using SPSS v.20. Categorical data was summarized using frequency and percentage while continuous data was summarized using median and interquartile range. Association between variables was assessed using chi-square test. More than two-third of the deceased patients were male (135; 72.6%) and median age at death was 60. The majority of deaths (151; 81.1%) occurred in 2021, while April 2021 had the highest death records. Cough and shortness of breath were the main presenting symptoms occurring in 89.2% and 85.5% of deceased patients respectively. Most of the COVID-19 related deaths (64.5%) had associated comorbidities. Diabetes (50%) and Hypertension (39.2%) were the most prevalent comorbidities. Significant proportion of patients (74.73%) presented on severe end of disease spectrum (critical/ severe). Of the deceased patients, around two-third required Intensive care unit (ICU) admission and 111 of them were put on mechanical ventilator. Moreover, the median ICU stay was 4 days. Around half of the death (48.4%) occurred in the first 5 days. The median survival time from symptom onset was 11.5 days with most (43.5%) of the deaths occurring within the first 14 days of symptom onset. Age category was significantly associated with the number of days from onset to death (p=0.006). The case fatality rate was 1.87% which is lower than national and global reports. Unlike previous studies, the prevalence of asthma among deceased patients was low and there were no patients with documented COPD.
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Open Access August 21, 2021

Global Analysis of Potential COVID 19 Transmission and Enabling Factors

Abstract Background: Coronavirus disease has caused global turmoil especially causing huge impact on human life all over the world. Current reports states more than 3 million people have lost life and more than 160 million people are known to be suspected with the SARS-CoV-2. Transmission and disease incidence rates are indicators to assess the seriousness of COVID-19 pandemic and studies to understand the factors that aid in this direction are very vital to curb the disease. Methods: The study intends to discover the relationship by performing statistical analysis using correlation and multiple linear regression analysis between the variable’s population density, temperature, relative humidity, and active time of virus and find out the parameters that predict the cases reported per million population in 83 countries. Results: Analysis indicates active time of virus in days is very positively associated with the COVID -19 cases in all the countries r = .604, p < .01. Active time of virus shows strong negative correlation with temperature r = -.930, p [...] Read more.
Background: Coronavirus disease has caused global turmoil especially causing huge impact on human life all over the world. Current reports states more than 3 million people have lost life and more than 160 million people are known to be suspected with the SARS-CoV-2. Transmission and disease incidence rates are indicators to assess the seriousness of COVID-19 pandemic and studies to understand the factors that aid in this direction are very vital to curb the disease. Methods: The study intends to discover the relationship by performing statistical analysis using correlation and multiple linear regression analysis between the variable’s population density, temperature, relative humidity, and active time of virus and find out the parameters that predict the cases reported per million population in 83 countries. Results: Analysis indicates active time of virus in days is very positively associated with the COVID -19 cases in all the countries r = .604, p < .01. Active time of virus shows strong negative correlation with temperature r = -.930, p < .01 revealing that rise in temperature will reduce the virus activity in the population. Together, these variables will account for 36.2% variance in the cases per million population with no significant prediction estimated from any factor. Conclusion: The study outcomes clearly state that population density alone is insufficient to estimate the extent of influence on COVID -19 cases as the number of persons living per sq. km of land is a dynamic quantity tend to fluctuate over time and space due to migration of population. In conjunction to the previous studies reported on the environmental and climatic factors influencing the cases reported, population dynamics does not show much significance on the disease spread and incidence. Contribution: The rise in confirmed cases and the high incidence rate reported in countries can be attributed to the active time of virus life expectancy as there is a positive correlation observed between the COVID-19 cases reported and the virus active time in the examined countries. Also, environment and climatic factors play a role in modulating the infection and transmission rate with less significant influence of population density on the COVID-19.
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Article
Open Access June 16, 2021

Impact of Pandemic Covid-19 on Higher Education-Indian Context

Abstract Education stratum of India as well as world are worst-hit by Covid-19 and has imposed lockdown originating deleterious effect on academic life. A sheer number of learners ceased moving educational institutions and all pedagogies halted in India. Catastrophe has behaved as a stimulant for the educational institutions to cultivate and choose for platforms with technologies which were previously [...] Read more.
Education stratum of India as well as world are worst-hit by Covid-19 and has imposed lockdown originating deleterious effect on academic life. A sheer number of learners ceased moving educational institutions and all pedagogies halted in India. Catastrophe has behaved as a stimulant for the educational institutions to cultivate and choose for platforms with technologies which were previously noviced. Education sector has been challenging to weather the crux with alternative strategy and digitizing the challenges to hoover the menaces of the pandemic. Hypothesis of digital study has prognosis to impact the ventures of higher education for eon. Findings evince that despite digital learning is a nice adventure for little skills, varying illiberalities partake. Learners are crunched and academy also exclusively in unstable job. It has yet to be established the scope whereupon digital study would climactically cover for conventional study. Covid-19 conundrum has divulged prefacing dilemma and disparities clamoring synergetic attempt to contemplate even so pandemic’s approach. This deliberate paper illuminates sparse impeccable education in India and has discussed the positive and negative impacts of Covid-19. The paper also contributes a methodical substantiation of the experience and lessons digested from the impact of the pandemic on the transitional education panorama, and the dissemination and acceptance of e-learning in education. To end, few suggestions along with policy recommendations have been made to meet didactics during the pandemic contingency.
Article
Open Access December 22, 2025

Reimagining Mathematical Modeling for a Responsive and Integrated Future in Infectious Disease Epidemiology

Abstract Mathematical modeling plays a central role in infectious disease epidemiology, shaping outbreak response strategies and informing public health policy. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the value of these models but also exposed persistent limitations related to data fragility, lack of transparency, limited stakeholder engagement, and insufficient consideration of social and political contexts. [...] Read more.
Mathematical modeling plays a central role in infectious disease epidemiology, shaping outbreak response strategies and informing public health policy. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the value of these models but also exposed persistent limitations related to data fragility, lack of transparency, limited stakeholder engagement, and insufficient consideration of social and political contexts. Rather than critiquing modeling as a discipline, this perspective argues for a reorientation of infectious disease modeling toward a more responsive, equity-centered, and participatory paradigm. We propose a conceptual framework built on three interrelated principles: adaptability through real-time data integration, transparency via open-source and reproducible practices, and relevance through interdisciplinary and co-produced model design. Drawing on illustrative examples from COVID-19 and dengue control efforts, we highlight how integrating behavioral dynamics, local knowledge, and policy feedback can improve model usefulness and public trust. Reconceptualizing models as dynamic systems of inquiry rather than static forecasting tools can enhance decision-making and promote more equitable and effective responses to future public health emergencies.
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Brief Review
Open Access June 03, 2025

Complexity Leadership Theory Integration into Nursing Leadership and Development in Addressing COVID-19 and Future Pandemics

Abstract Complexity Leadership Theory (CLT) is a new and revolutionary concept in addressing healthcare crises worldwide. Its relevance and applications were tested during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, no definite and encompassing research was done to apply it to nursing leadership. Thus, this study examines CLT integration into nursing leadership to address the challenges posed by the pandemic. Through [...] Read more.
Complexity Leadership Theory (CLT) is a new and revolutionary concept in addressing healthcare crises worldwide. Its relevance and applications were tested during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, no definite and encompassing research was done to apply it to nursing leadership. Thus, this study examines CLT integration into nursing leadership to address the challenges posed by the pandemic. Through a systematic review of literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, relevant studies were analyzed to determine how complexity leadership theory was defined, conceptualized, and operationalized within nursing leadership context. The findings reveal that traditional hierarchical leadership models are insufficient in a dynamic crisis environment like the pandemic. Instead, CLT’s framework which encompasses adaptive, administrative, and enabling leadership facilitates innovation, resilience, and effective interprofessional collaboration. Nurse leaders employing these strategies are better positioned to manage resources limitation, foster shared decision-making, and implement technological advancements in rapidly changing healthcare settings. Overall, this study underscores the potential of complexity leadership theory to transform nursing leadership practices by promoting continuous learning and empowerment, thereby enhancing crisis response and preparedness for future pandemics.
Systematic Review
Open Access July 16, 2024

A Different Lens: Insights of Non-Nursing Students in Nursing Education

Abstract Background: In the landscape of education, the decision-making process that leads students to pursue or reject nursing as a career is a multifaceted phenomenon shaped by a plethora of influences ranging from personal experiences to societal norms. Aim: To explore non-nursing students' insights on nursing education, seeking to shed light on the considerations and challenges that [...] Read more.
Background: In the landscape of education, the decision-making process that leads students to pursue or reject nursing as a career is a multifaceted phenomenon shaped by a plethora of influences ranging from personal experiences to societal norms. Aim: To explore non-nursing students' insights on nursing education, seeking to shed light on the considerations and challenges that influence their views on nursing education. Materials & Methods: A qualitative approach using thematic analysis were utilized. Lincoln and Guba's framework for rigor and trustworthiness directed the validation process. Semi-structured interviews based on vetted questionnaires yielded the data. Results: Analysis of interviews with ten (10) non-nursing college students revealed three key themes: 1) initial insights, 2) factors influencing their insights, and 3) difficulty of nursing education. Non-nursing students view nursing education as multifaceted and rigorous, recognizing the profession's complexity but have reservations about the heavy workload, intense clinical demands, and health risks, particularly highlighted by the pandemic, which contributes to their reluctance to choose nursing as a career path. Implications: Addressing perceptions, enhancing curricula, offering mentorship, and providing emotional support, nursing education can be improved, steering more students towards a career in nursing. Conclusion: Non-nursing students respect the complexity of the nursing profession but are deterred by its demands and risks, indicating a need for educational reforms to better convey the role, value, and opportunities within nursing to encourage more students into the field.
Article
Open Access April 16, 2024

Impact of Covid-19 on the Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Supply Chain

Abstract An increasing number of adverse events are raising concern in the pharmaceutical supply chain due to contaminated active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Most of the active pharmaceutical ingredients are not currently under the scope of environmental regulations, despite their negative impact on human health and the environment. API's life cycle plays a significant role in identifying potential [...] Read more.
An increasing number of adverse events are raising concern in the pharmaceutical supply chain due to contaminated active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Most of the active pharmaceutical ingredients are not currently under the scope of environmental regulations, despite their negative impact on human health and the environment. API's life cycle plays a significant role in identifying potential supply chain sources and determining their impact on the environment. The Covid-19 pandemic's intermittent manufacturing interruptions and the increase in the frequency of drug shortages over the past ten years have sparked worries about how resilient the world's drug supply chains are. Many clinical trials were conducted on patients with COVID-19 during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and resulted in millions of deaths globally by 2022.
Review Article
Open Access February 19, 2024

The COVID-19 Pandemic & College Students’ Perceptions of Access to Mental Health Services

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on individuals worldwide, affecting not only their educational futures but also their mental health. This paper aims to explore college students' perceived barriers to accessing mental health services during the pandemic. The study finds that there is a significant difference between stigma-related and non-stigma-related barriers, with non-stigma [...] Read more.
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on individuals worldwide, affecting not only their educational futures but also their mental health. This paper aims to explore college students' perceived barriers to accessing mental health services during the pandemic. The study finds that there is a significant difference between stigma-related and non-stigma-related barriers, with non-stigma items being rated higher on average. The most commonly reported non-stigma barriers include wanting to solve the problem independently, financial constraints, and the belief that the issue will resolve itself. Stigma-related barriers include feeling embarrassed or ashamed, concern about having a mental health problem on medical records, and fear of being seen as crazy or weak. This research sheds light on the challenges students face in seeking mental health care during the pandemic and highlights the need to address these barriers.
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Article
Open Access February 08, 2023

Videogame Education as an Anxiety Treatment between Middle-Year Students Post-Covid 19

Abstract The present article seeks to provoke a discussion into how video games can be used in anxiety treatments and social stimulation tools among middle-year students and children of that same age. To do so, we initially start this article by reflecting on how the covid-19 pandemic disparate all anxiety alerts in our society including mental health issues such as depression and special anxiety disorders. Then we compare how the numbers of anxiety among children and young adults were already alarming before the lockdowns imposition and the social distance measures, especially in urban centers. This rising anxiety condition can be felt especially in the years that followed the social isolation of children especially because their social connection and recognition were just starting to grow and to establish important connections between their peers in-person and in virtual environments, throwing light on how to screen media and children`s homes are related with the anxiety increase and how we can investigate that phenomenon without succumbing to excessive positivism to today`s technology or to a deconstructive pessimism that leads us to distrust those media that are already in contact with middle-year students and children`s in that same age. To do so, we will resort to philosophical tools such as Edusemiotics and Cultural Studies to understand how games such as Minecraft and Roblox [...] Read more.
The present article seeks to provoke a discussion into how video games can be used in anxiety treatments and social stimulation tools among middle-year students and children of that same age. To do so, we initially start this article by reflecting on how the covid-19 pandemic disparate all anxiety alerts in our society including mental health issues such as depression and special anxiety disorders. Then we compare how the numbers of anxiety among children and young adults were already alarming before the lockdowns imposition and the social distance measures, especially in urban centers. This rising anxiety condition can be felt especially in the years that followed the social isolation of children especially because their social connection and recognition were just starting to grow and to establish important connections between their peers in-person and in virtual environments, throwing light on how to screen media and children`s homes are related with the anxiety increase and how we can investigate that phenomenon without succumbing to excessive positivism to today`s technology or to a deconstructive pessimism that leads us to distrust those media that are already in contact with middle-year students and children`s in that same age. To do so, we will resort to philosophical tools such as Edusemiotics and Cultural Studies to understand how games such as Minecraft and Roblox can be used in school environments to help students and teachers manage anxiety levels and surpass socialization issues past covid-19 lockdowns. To finish our reflection we also bring some data related to how those same media and games helped middle-year students to surpass social isolation and family disconnection during the pandemic while their kept exercising school content in those games, sharing and debating with their peers on virtual platforms.
Article
Open Access December 28, 2022

Epidemiological and Clinical Characteristics of COVID-19 Suspect Cases at the Triage of Ain Shams University Hospitals during the First Wave

Abstract Background: In December 2019, a cluster of patients with unexplained viral pneumonia was identified in Wuhan, China. Since March 11th 2020 the WHO declared COVID 19 as a pandemic with rising number of cases all over the world. Aim of the work: The aim of the study was to measure the percentages of possible, probable and provisionally excluded cases among the first 500 [...] Read more.
Background: In December 2019, a cluster of patients with unexplained viral pneumonia was identified in Wuhan, China. Since March 11th 2020 the WHO declared COVID 19 as a pandemic with rising number of cases all over the world. Aim of the work: The aim of the study was to measure the percentages of possible, probable and provisionally excluded cases among the first 500 attendants of the triage of Ain Shams University Hospital and describe their epidemiological and clinical characteristics. Patients and Methods: This was a retrospective descriptive case series study including the first 500 patients attending the triage of Ain Shams University Hospitals from March 29th to May 31st. A constructed questionnaire in the form of a scoring system was used and data was collected through interviewing the patients after appropriate consent. Results: As regard the scoring system, 72.2% of patients had new onset of cough or old worsened cough in the previous 3 days, 59.2% had sore throat and 59% had dyspnea. Out of the 500 cases 33.2% were probable, 38.2% were possible and 28.2% were provisionally excluded. Conclusion: COVID-19 pneumonia usually occurred at an age younger than 47 years and it was more predominant in the male gender. The most common initial clinical presentations were new dry cough or chronic cough with worsening over the last 3 days, sore throat and/or runny nose and fever. Thirty-eight percent were classified as possible COVID-19 cases, and 33% were classified as probable.
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Open Access November 09, 2022

Economic Consequences of Covid-19 in Western Ethiopia: Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract This research is conducted with main aim of assessing the economic consequences of Covid-19 pandemic in Western Ethiopia. Primary data is collected through questionnaire and interview from 320 respondents living in three zones of Western Ethiopia. The study areas (zones) are selected purposively from Oromia region; however, the respondents are sampled by employing random sampling technique. The [...] Read more.
This research is conducted with main aim of assessing the economic consequences of Covid-19 pandemic in Western Ethiopia. Primary data is collected through questionnaire and interview from 320 respondents living in three zones of Western Ethiopia. The study areas (zones) are selected purposively from Oromia region; however, the respondents are sampled by employing random sampling technique. The respondents were stratified as community members, daily laborer, business owners, government sector and NGOs employees. Exploratory research design was adopted to achieve the research objectives. Simple descriptive statistics and ordinary least square regression model are used to analyze and interpret the collected data. The study results disclose that majority of community have good awareness about the pandemic and social interaction is reduced due to social distancing. Majority of respondents realize the negative impact of Covid-19 on their economy; reduction of office services; and reduced access to market; and absence of strong support from the government. The great severity of Covid-19 impacts is failed on daily laborers. The regression result shows that sales, experience in business, education level in years, employment status of the respondent, number of workers in the business and work hours per week are positively and significantly influencing daily income of business owner before and after the pandemic outbreak. It is advised the stakeholders to give frequent follow-up and support particularly for daily laborers and small business holders to reduce the future socio-economic impacts of Covid-19 pandemic.
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Open Access October 15, 2022

Perceptions of Nursing Personnel Regarding Challenges in Usage of PPE during COVID 19 Pandemic

Abstract The rapid spread of COVID 19 outbreak has put a heavy burden on human society and is a great challenge for health care workers. The present study aims to assess the perceptions of nursing personnel regarding challenges in usage of PPE during COVID 19 pandemic and to find out the association between severity of physical symptoms and selected personal variables of nursing personnel. A quantitative [...] Read more.
The rapid spread of COVID 19 outbreak has put a heavy burden on human society and is a great challenge for health care workers. The present study aims to assess the perceptions of nursing personnel regarding challenges in usage of PPE during COVID 19 pandemic and to find out the association between severity of physical symptoms and selected personal variables of nursing personnel. A quantitative approach with descriptive survey research design was used for the study. Web based self-administered questionnaire, rating scale and checklist were developed and distributed among study participants in the “Google forms”. A total of 134 participants were included in the study. Out of the 134 participants, 85(63.4%) nursing personnel were working in the government sector and 49(36.6%) of nursing personnel were working in the private sector. The top five challenges in the usage of PPE ranked based on self-reported data were; 1. difficulty to meet the basic needs such as food and fluids, 2. difficulty to meet elimination needs, 3. Unable to relax, 4. difficulty to meet hygienic needs and 5. disconnected with friends and family during working hours. Analysis of physical symptoms experienced by the nursing personnel showed that 41(30.6%) had mild symptoms, 54(40.3%) had moderate symptoms and 39(29.1%) had severe symptoms experienced owing to PPE usage. The most common physical symptoms reported by nurses were heat stress 124(92.5%), head ache 120(89.6%), exhaustion 117(87.3%) and dryness in throat (86.6%). There were no significant association between physical symptoms of nursing personnel and selected personal variables at 0.05 level of significance.
Article
Open Access September 30, 2022

Complicated Monochorionic-Monoamniotic Twin Pregnancy Associated with COVID-19: A Case Report

Abstract Coronavirus infection (COVID-19) has quickly emerged as a global pandemic leading to critical health complications. The possibility and risk of vertical transmission of this virus is still unclear, particularly as it relates to pregnant women and their fetuses. Regarding scientific data, there is insufficient research focused on COVID-19 infection complicated with hydrops fetalis and intrauterine [...] Read more.
Coronavirus infection (COVID-19) has quickly emerged as a global pandemic leading to critical health complications. The possibility and risk of vertical transmission of this virus is still unclear, particularly as it relates to pregnant women and their fetuses. Regarding scientific data, there is insufficient research focused on COVID-19 infection complicated with hydrops fetalis and intrauterine fetal demise. In this study, we report an intra uterus fetal death due to hydrops fetalis and twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) in monochorionic–monoamniotic (MCMA) twin pregnancy associated with mild COVID-19 infection in a 33-week-pregnant woman.
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Case Report
Open Access June 29, 2022

Transgenerational Education in Pandemic Time: Dromology Approach of Digital Learning Environment

Abstract This article seeks to relate (trans)generational issues with the phenomenon of sociodromology and education in the COVID-19 pandemic period that began globally in the first months of 2020 and 2021. To make such crossings possible, we will initially present under which aspects we are addressing the term generation, and its respective phenomenological development, transgenerationality. Once these [...] Read more.
This article seeks to relate (trans)generational issues with the phenomenon of sociodromology and education in the COVID-19 pandemic period that began globally in the first months of 2020 and 2021. To make such crossings possible, we will initially present under which aspects we are addressing the term generation, and its respective phenomenological development, transgenerationality. Once these concepts have been properly presented it is also necessary to relate those information with the generations that are currently living within educational environments, especially schools. After such an exposition, we will present the theory that contemplates the vector of acceleration and its respective consequence for humanity. Sociodromology emerges as a theoretical instrument that makes it possible to critically glimpse how the speed of machines has dictated our lives, having a perverse facet of exclusion that determines which groups may be able or unfit at their pace. Finally the text concludes its reflection on the current educational context using the critical tools of socio-pedagogy, which views the subjects who are involved in the educational process as representatives of an even greater order in the world, which transcends schools. In this perspective, education as a pillar of knowledge acquisition should be revised in addition to its pre-determined role in society and should form individuals who could change the world and their communities.
Theorical Article
Open Access June 28, 2022

A Case Report of Sagittal Sinus Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism in an Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 Infection

Abstract Background: Vascular thrombotic events such as pulmonary embolisms have been frequently reported in the course of SARS-Cov-2 infection. However, sagittal sinus thrombus is extremely rare, and patients may lack other appealing Covid-19 infection symptoms. Case report: 46-year-old female with past medical history of Hyperlipidemia, Hypertension presented to [...] Read more.
Background: Vascular thrombotic events such as pulmonary embolisms have been frequently reported in the course of SARS-Cov-2 infection. However, sagittal sinus thrombus is extremely rare, and patients may lack other appealing Covid-19 infection symptoms. Case report: 46-year-old female with past medical history of Hyperlipidemia, Hypertension presented to Emergency room with headache, chest pain, vomiting. SARS-CoV-2 IgG Antibodies were reactive. Except for elevated PTT-Lupus Anticoagulant at 50 Sec, Hypercoagulable workup was negative. The MRI venogram findings were consistent with the Dural thrombus of superior sagittal sinus. Patient subsequently developed chest pain, and Computed tomography angiography found pulmonary emboli within segmental branches of the right lower lobe pulmonary artery. Patient was managed in the ICU with Heparin and switched to Coumadin for discharged. Conclusion: The incidence of Cerebral Venous Sinus thrombus (CVST) among Covid-19 patients is inferior to 0.02%. And most of the patients lack typical Covid-19 presentations such as pneumonia. The lack of symptoms may promote the insidious course of pre-thrombotic events that lead to CVST. However more Retrospective studies are necessary to established consistent odd ratios. Due to the higher mortality associated with CVST and the ongoing of Covid-19 pandemic, we recommend a higher level of clinical suspicion.
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Case Report
Open Access June 22, 2022

Adapting examination and student evaluation at Biomedical Science Institute in the time of COVID-19

Abstract As COVID-19 pandemic spreads worldwide, universities and academic institutions were forced to shift their face-to-face education to online learning since spring 2020. This shift was termed “emergency remote education or learning”, caused many distractions to students, and posed many challenges for both assessment and examination systems and practices at our Zhejiang University-University of [...] Read more.
As COVID-19 pandemic spreads worldwide, universities and academic institutions were forced to shift their face-to-face education to online learning since spring 2020. This shift was termed “emergency remote education or learning”, caused many distractions to students, and posed many challenges for both assessment and examination systems and practices at our Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh (ZJU-UoE) Biomedical Science Institute, like other educational institutions worldwide. This necessitated the development of alternative and effective approaches and procedures to teach students, and several changes and adaptions of assessments and examinations at ZJU-UoE institute. In this article, we described the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic for student assessment systems and practices at ZJU-UoE Institute. The article is particularly reflecting on alternative approaches and strategies that we have developed at ZJU-UoE institute to change and adapt student assessments and examinations during COVID-19 pandemic. These changes involved developing general examination strategies and settings, including online (MCQ-type) test exam settings and online written exam settings, and developing effective procedure and policy to safeguard academic integrity during the COVID-19 pandemic that can help with facing various education and learning challenges in a time of crisis worldwide.
Short Reflection and Observation Report
Open Access April 18, 2022

Preliminary Survey Analysis on Food Choices among Randomly Selected Social Media Users amidst COVID-19 Pandemic in Nigeria

Abstract A survey on food choices with a randomized sample population of individuals using various social media in Nigeria was conducted during the COVID1-19 pandemic. The data generated was subjected to basic standard statistical analysis. The parameters indicated that 94% of the population is young adults, 58.9 % percent are city dwellers, 63.6% are students, 23.4 % are into business, 86.9% are [...] Read more.
A survey on food choices with a randomized sample population of individuals using various social media in Nigeria was conducted during the COVID1-19 pandemic. The data generated was subjected to basic standard statistical analysis. The parameters indicated that 94% of the population is young adults, 58.9 % percent are city dwellers, 63.6% are students, 23.4 % are into business, 86.9% are graduates; 73.8% consume various diets, 23.4% are vegetarians and only 2.8% fed only on proteins, 30.8% of them go on two meals per day. The most choices on influence on food purchases decision are hunger (26.2%), mood (26.2%), past experience (45.8%), quality of the food products (66.7%), cost of the food products (50.5%) and government approval (28%). Also,other most preferred choices are for self-prepared food (40.21%), enhanced local diets (36 %), and a blend of foreign and local diets purchases (24%). Other highest choices include: easy preparation (37.4%), shelf life (29%); cute packaging (23.4%), swelling property preference (20.6%), minimal cooking time and energy preference (37.4%). The weighted sum, index and rank on factors influencing food choices showed that the influence of quality of food product ranked highest, followed by influence on cost. Also preference for enhanced local healthy diets to foreign ranked highest, minimal cooking time and energy costs ranked highest. These nutritional adaptations have implications to individuals, food scientists, manufacturers in the food industry, food regulatory agencies, government and other decision bodies.
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Article
Open Access March 26, 2022

Role of Ivermectin in Management of COVID-19

Abstract The pandemic corona virus disease 19 (COVID-19), caused by (SARS-CoV-2) a single stranded-RNA virus, has been spread rapidly worldwide with high rate of morbidity and mortality. Few months after the spread of the pandemic, few medications have proven to be efficient in human clinical trials. Several antiviral drugs have been used outside the scope of their initial medical use, such as lopinavir, [...] Read more.
The pandemic corona virus disease 19 (COVID-19), caused by (SARS-CoV-2) a single stranded-RNA virus, has been spread rapidly worldwide with high rate of morbidity and mortality. Few months after the spread of the pandemic, few medications have proven to be efficient in human clinical trials. Several antiviral drugs have been used outside the scope of their initial medical use, such as lopinavir, hydroxychloroquine or azithromycin. Recent researches were done to show the efficacy of ivermectin in reducing SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA within 2 days. The use of ivermectin in in vitro studies has proven its efficacy against Corona virus. Based on the potency of ivermectin in in vitro studies, various clinical trials including patients infected with COVID-19 have been started; most of them have not been completed yet. Since the way how the virus infects the cells in vitro and in vivo is different, a decisive comment about how the ivermectin could exactly be beneficial to the patients has not been proven yet. Nevertheless, if ivermectin is compared to the other therapeutic treatments available for COVID-19 management, ivermectin has proved to have leverage over them. New randomized controlled clinical trials to assess the effectiveness of ivermectin the management of COVID-19 are strongly and urgently needed.
Mini Review
Open Access March 26, 2022

Healthcare Workers Should Receive Seasonal Influenza Vaccine during COVID-19 Pandemic?

Abstract It is known that seasonal influenza virus vaccination is important to be taken every year among healthcare workers (HCWs) to avoid transmission of influenza virus and its complications inside the workplace. The reason behind the importance of vaccination is that HCWs are at high risk to be infected with influenza virus. Among the studies addressing the rates of influenza vaccine status among HCWs, [...] Read more.
It is known that seasonal influenza virus vaccination is important to be taken every year among healthcare workers (HCWs) to avoid transmission of influenza virus and its complications inside the workplace. The reason behind the importance of vaccination is that HCWs are at high risk to be infected with influenza virus. Among the studies addressing the rates of influenza vaccine status among HCWs, a study was conducted in three Middle East countries where the vaccination rates were 24.7%, 67.2%, and 46.4% in United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Oman, respectively. Now, after the pandemic of COVID-19 there are beliefs that vaccination with influenza virus could decrease the deaths from COVID-19. A recent retrospective cohort study to detect the effect of seasonal influenza vaccine on the deaths among COVID-19 patients showed that the individuals who didn’t take the influenza vaccine in the last year before being infected with COVID-19 had a higher risk of being hospitalized when compared with patients who took the vaccine. In conclusion, seasonal influenza vaccine could have an important role in the prevention of COVID-19. Seasonal influenza vaccine coverage should be improved among HCWs. New tailored health education programs to improve the attitudes and beliefs of HCWs towards seasonal influenza vaccine during the era of COVID-19 are strongly and urgently needed.
Mini Review
Open Access March 16, 2022

Postpartum Depression during the Pandemic Crisis in Bangladesh: A Teleconsultation Insight

Abstract Given the limited access to medical facilities, impeding lockdown, and social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, an upsurge in postpartum depression among pregnant mothers in their puerperal period has become more apparent alongside an eventual increase in suicidal behavior. This article aimed to discuss the crucial aspects of different clinical case studies treated during recent periods [...] Read more.
Given the limited access to medical facilities, impeding lockdown, and social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, an upsurge in postpartum depression among pregnant mothers in their puerperal period has become more apparent alongside an eventual increase in suicidal behavior. This article aimed to discuss the crucial aspects of different clinical case studies treated during recent periods throughout the COVID-19 pandemic via teleconsultations. We hoped to demonstrate tremendous opportunities for the application of healthcare via therapeutic tools online in telemedicine to manage such conditions in a developing country like Bangladesh with a severe scarcity of healthcare infrastructure and resources.
Case Report
Open Access February 17, 2022

Role of Digital Formative Assessment in Improving the Assessment and Monitoring of Students’ Learning and Their Significance During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract Digital formative assessments have the features of digital learning environment and can be used by teachers to both empower students’ learning and adapt the next steps in the learning process of their students. They are effective tools that can help lecturers and tutors to both collect and analyze the required information and data for supporting the teaching and learning processes. Importantly, [...] Read more.
Digital formative assessments have the features of digital learning environment and can be used by teachers to both empower students’ learning and adapt the next steps in the learning process of their students. They are effective tools that can help lecturers and tutors to both collect and analyze the required information and data for supporting the teaching and learning processes. Importantly, digital formative assessments have been particularly critical during the COVID-19 pandemic due to increased students’ learning outside traditional classrooms, limited face-to-face classes and other students’ learning and assessment difficulties at many educational institutions worldwide. In this article, we describe the essential features and importance of digital formative assessments and their recently developed communication methods. We also discuss the significance of digital formative assessments in measuring students’ learning and skills in times of global crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mini Review
Open Access December 16, 2021

Role of Colchicine in Management of COVID-19?

Abstract CoV-2 disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has exerted a great burden on the health and economic systems worldwide. One of the most important factors that affect the severity and prognosis of COVID-19 is the occurrence of hyperstimulation of the immune system resulting in “cytokine storm”. Similar to SARS-CoV, an intracellular complex called nod like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) [...] Read more.
CoV-2 disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has exerted a great burden on the health and economic systems worldwide. One of the most important factors that affect the severity and prognosis of COVID-19 is the occurrence of hyperstimulation of the immune system resulting in “cytokine storm”. Similar to SARS-CoV, an intracellular complex called nod like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome was found to be activated by SARS-CoV-2, then in turn stimulates several interleukins and initiates the inflammatory cascade. In addition, other inflammatory mediators such as interferons e.g., IFN-α, and IFN-γ, interleukins e.g., IL-1β, IL-12, IL-18, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF- α), and chemokines e.g., CCL2, CXCL10 have been reported in severely ill patients. These mediators represent the corner stone in developing cytokine storm that results in uncontrolled systemic inflammatory reaction with subsequent acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), multiple organ failure and eventually death. Based on its anti-inflammatory effects, colchicine has also gained attention to be utilized in the management of COVID-19 patient. Colchicine exerts its anti-inflammatory effect through inhibition of formation of microtubules which is considered an essential step in several cellular processes such as division, signalling, and migration. Also, colchicine affects the cytokine cascade by inhibiting IL-1β leading to reduction in neutrophils recruitment, free radicles production and inflammasome stimulation. This raises the concerns about the effectiveness of colchicine in COVID-19 treatment and the possibility of providing an improvement of the clinical course of the disease.
Mini Review
Open Access November 10, 2021

A Note on Excess Mortality Attributable to COVID-19 in the United States

Abstract Background: Annual influenza outbreaks constitute a major public health concern in the United States. But this health burden appears dwarfed by the impact of COVID-19. Our aim is to quantify the excess mortality attributable to COVID-19, compared to previous influenza seasons. Methods: We retrospectively compare weekly mortality figures attributable to influenza and pneumonia in the [...] Read more.
Background: Annual influenza outbreaks constitute a major public health concern in the United States. But this health burden appears dwarfed by the impact of COVID-19. Our aim is to quantify the excess mortality attributable to COVID-19, compared to previous influenza seasons. Methods: We retrospectively compare weekly mortality figures attributable to influenza and pneumonia in the United States from 2013 to 2019 with corresponding figures attributable to influenza, pneumonia, and COVID-19 from 2019 to 2021. We utilize a difference in differences regression methodology to estimate excess mortality observed in 2019-21 compared to 2013-2019. Results: Mortality patterns attributable to influenza, pneumonia, and COVID-19 differ significantly from the 2013-19 experience. Notably, distinct, aperiodic mortality waves occur in the 2019-2021 window, and mortality is well in excess of what is observed in typical influenza seasons. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to considerable excess mortality in the United States, and has strained public health resources. One might expect that the mortality waves observed during the pandemic will be damped by increasing levels of vaccination, and prior infections.
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Brief Report
Open Access August 21, 2021

COVID-19 Impacts on the Sustainable Development in Latin America: An Investigation on the Environmental Law and Policy

Abstract The economic and social effects that the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated measures to address it are having in Latin America may lead to serious long-term consequences that would affect the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. In this article, the collaboration of environmental economists from eight countries in the region discusses the possible effects of the pandemic on air [...] Read more.
The economic and social effects that the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated measures to address it are having in Latin America may lead to serious long-term consequences that would affect the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. In this article, the collaboration of environmental economists from eight countries in the region discusses the possible effects of the pandemic on air pollution, deforestation, and other relevant environmental aspects related to the SDGs. In addition to presenting an account of some of the initial effects of the health crisis on the environment, the paper discusses potential effects in terms of environmental regulations and public policy interventions. Finally, the paper presents an agenda on new research topics that arise due to the pandemic or have gained greater importance due to it, including the impacts on the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Briefly, this paper is a novel view of the sustainable development in Latin America and the Covid-19 impacts on this process.
Article
Open Access August 14, 2021

Genes of Gall 200C and Nematode 200C May Develop Biomedical Vaccines Against Plants and COVID-19 Diseases: Advanced Medical Science Technology Agriculture Health Issues

Abstract The outbreaks and quick spread of severe-acute-respiratory-syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), causing the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), have badly affected the whole world due to continuous emergence-and-transmission of the latest-new viral-genomes forming new-variants revealing patterns of the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak-and-global-pandemic with badly affecting advanced-medical-science-technology-communication-agriculture-agronomy-plant-breeding-horticulture, health-environment-socio-economy, and different-issues. India's emphasis on okra, the ‘Nature's-Gift to Human-Disease-Free-Healthy-Life’ and the most ‘Economically-Important-Number-One-Consumption Vegetable-Crops’ is destroyed by various-diseases causing pathogens like the root-knot (RK)-diseases caused by the nematodes, Meloidogyne incognita [...] Read more.
The outbreaks and quick spread of severe-acute-respiratory-syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), causing the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), have badly affected the whole world due to continuous emergence-and-transmission of the latest-new viral-genomes forming new-variants revealing patterns of the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak-and-global-pandemic with badly affecting advanced-medical-science-technology-communication-agriculture-agronomy-plant-breeding-horticulture, health-environment-socio-economy, and different-issues. India's emphasis on okra, the ‘Nature's-Gift to Human-Disease-Free-Healthy-Life’ and the most ‘Economically-Important-Number-One-Consumption Vegetable-Crops’ is destroyed by various-diseases causing pathogens like the root-knot (RK)-diseases caused by the nematodes, Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid & White) Chitwood, and easily checked by many chemical-pesticides. But it causes different carcinogenic effects on the environment and our life. So it is an urgent need to develop potential biomedicines. The pretreatments with ultra-high-diluted-biomedicines (UHDBMs) Gall 200C and Nematode 200C, prepared from okra-root-galls (ORG) and nematode-females (NF) respectively, applied by foliar spray@ 20 ml/plant, are highly effective against the root-knot-disease of okra, Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench Cv. Ankur-40, with the increasing growth of plants and fruits-production. The UHDBMs-Gall 200C is more effective than the Nematode 200C. Both the pretreatments-UHDBMs are responsible for induce-systemic-acquired-defense-response of the pretreated-plants through the expression of pathogenesis-related (PR)-proteins-genes (22-14 numbers), which are more or less similar-molecular-range (295kD-11kD) of many coronavirus, which will be responsible for preventing-RK and COVID-19 like virus-diseases by inducing-defense-resistance or increasing innate-immunity respectively, and advanced in medical-science, technology, communication, agriculture, agronomy, plant breeding, horticulture, health, environment, socio-economy, and different application-issues with pollution-free globe, developing new-preventive typical-biomedical vaccines or treatments methods or drug development and research against the ‘21st-Century Global Pandemic COVID-19 like Any Viral Diseases’ which lead to optimal contributions to the field of policymaking drug and vaccine development emphasizing new or important aspects of the study, and synthetic production of UHDBMs will be more practical implications, and social implications in the future research. And the farmers and the world would be benefitted most; by collecting and uprooting gall-roots after harvesting for cost-effective bio-controlling plant-diseases, and profit from shelling-and-buying of whole plants, fruits, and gall-roots also, and helps for the benefit of global health by developing the most cost-effective, personalized, non-toxic, easily-preparable, easily-maintainable, easily-available and suppliable, vaccines or treatments methods from their own product.
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Article
Open Access August 12, 2021

Responding to the Call through Translating Science into Impact: Building an Evidence-Based Approaches to Effectively Curb Public Health Emergencies [Covid-19 Crisis]

Abstract COVID-19 demonstrated a global catastrophe that touched everybody, including the scientific community. As we respond and recover rapidly from this pandemic, there is an opportunity to guarantee that the fabric of our society includes sustainability, fairness, and care. However, approaches to environmental health attempt to decrease the populations burden of COVID-19, toward saving patients from [...] Read more.
COVID-19 demonstrated a global catastrophe that touched everybody, including the scientific community. As we respond and recover rapidly from this pandemic, there is an opportunity to guarantee that the fabric of our society includes sustainability, fairness, and care. However, approaches to environmental health attempt to decrease the populations burden of COVID-19, toward saving patients from becoming ill along with preserving the allocation of clinical resources and public safety standards. This paper explores environmental and public health evidence-based practices toward responding to Covid-19. A literature review tried to do a deep dive through the use of various search engines such as Mendeley, Research Gate, CAB Abstract, Google Scholar, Summon, PubMed, Scopus, Hinari, Dimension, OARE Abstract, SSRN, Academia search strategy toward retrieving research publications, “grey literature” as well as reports from expert working groups. To achieve enhanced population health, it is recommended to adopt widespread evidence-based strategies, particularly in this uncertain time. As only together can evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM) can become a reality which include effective policies and practices, transparency and accountability of decisions, and equity outcomes; these are all more relevant in resource-constrained contexts, such as Nigeria. Effective and ethical EIDM though requires the production as well as use of high-quality evidence that are timely, appropriate and structured. One way to do so is through co-production. Co-production (or co-creation or co-design) of environmental/public health evidence considered as a key tool for addressing complex global crises such as the high risk of severe COVID-19 in different nations. A significant evidence-based component of environmental/public health (EBEPH) consist of decisions making based on best accessible, evidence that is peer-reviewed; using data as well as systematic information systems; community engagement in policy making; conducting sound evaluation; do a thorough program-planning frameworks; as well as disseminating what is being learned. As researchers, scientists, statisticians, journal editors, practitioners, as well as decision makers strive to improve population health, having a natural tendency toward scrutinizing the scientific literature aimed at novel research findings serving as the foundation for intervention as well as prevention programs. The main inspiration behind conducting research ought to be toward stimulating and collaborating appropriately on public/environmental health action. Hence, there is need for a “Plan B” of effective behavioural, environmental, social as well as systems interventions (BESSI) toward reducing transmission.
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Review Article
Open Access August 09, 2021

Covid-19 and the Environment: Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract After the outbreak of the covid-19 disease in the world of human life, living organisms and their environment were affected in various ways. The outbreak of the covid-19 virus has posed many opportunities and challenges to the world environment. This article aims to investigate the effects of the outbreak of covid-19 disease on the environment. This research has studied the effects of the covid-19 [...] Read more.
After the outbreak of the covid-19 disease in the world of human life, living organisms and their environment were affected in various ways. The outbreak of the covid-19 virus has posed many opportunities and challenges to the world environment. This article aims to investigate the effects of the outbreak of covid-19 disease on the environment. This research has studied the effects of the covid-19 virus on the environment through library and review methods. It has been studied and analyzed in the form of articles and related researches. The results of published sources show that quarantine and the requirement of humans to stay at home to break the covid-19 transmission chain caused the animals to feel safe, move out of their natural territory and into urban and rural areas. Reducing noise and air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions by reducing vehicle traffic and shutting down factories are other positive effects of the covid-19 outbreak that has helped improve air quality and reduce global warming. In addition to these positive effects, reducing conservation activities during the Covid-19 era in some areas has increased habitat destruction and poaching. Increasing household and hospital waste production, increasing the consumption of plastics and disposable materials, and decreasing waste recycling are the negative effects of the covid-19 virus epidemic, which, by destroying resources, puts pressure on the environment. Increased consumption of detergents and disinfectants will have many detrimental effects on the environment. In general, the positive effects of the covid-19 virus on the temporary and short-term environment seem to be small compared to the long-term consequences. Therefore, by overcoming covid-19, we should focus on rebuilding society and a healthy economy, and by fully understanding the opportunities and threats of this virus, we should consciously train environmental behaviors.
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Article
Open Access December 27, 2020

Optimizing Unclaimed Property Management through Cloud-Enabled AI and Integrated IT Infrastructures

Abstract With unclaimed property assets reaching record levels, businesses have become, in some cases, overwhelmed and hamstrung by stagnant, unoptimized processes. That sentiment is compounded by ever-evolving regulatory changes, resulting in organizations struggling to hit compliance deadlines while delivering an optimal claimant experience. Often, early systems had periods of short-term success but are [...] Read more.
With unclaimed property assets reaching record levels, businesses have become, in some cases, overwhelmed and hamstrung by stagnant, unoptimized processes. That sentiment is compounded by ever-evolving regulatory changes, resulting in organizations struggling to hit compliance deadlines while delivering an optimal claimant experience. Often, early systems had periods of short-term success but are on the verge of obsolescence, resulting in stressed workflows and cumbersome integrations. Deploying an integrated IT infrastructure, supported by cloud-enabled AI, represents the quickest path to modernizing unclaimed property management. A fully integrated IT infrastructure is crucial to optimize the management of unclaimed property [1]. When lone solutions exist across an organization, companies miss out on automation opportunities generated through the interconnectedness of systems and data. AI presents organizations with the opportunity to traverse these gaps, enabling a vast library of applications to improve the perturbed workflows of unclaimed property teams. Automated data extraction, document comparison, fraudulent claim detection, and workflow completion analysis are just a few popular applications well suited for the unclaimed property space. In addition to the lagging technology currently deployed by many organizations, the unclaimed property landscape itself is evolving. Compliance issuance, asset availability, rates, the ability to collect fraudulently posted claims, and the claimant experience have all become hot-button items that are now front of mind for regulation agencies and businesses alike. Issuing duplication letters in a compliant manner, accommodating claimant inquiries regarding held assets, and managing, processing, and understanding the operational impact of rate changes are vexing problems many organizations now find themselves playing catch-up to address. The opportunity posed by cloud-enabled AI is furthered by economic, regulatory, and report cycle pressures on unclaimed property teams to do more with the same size or fewer resources. It’s now no longer simply a case of hitting the audit date deadline and checking off a box but an emerging priority for businesses at all sides of the market, from Fortune 500 to mid-market firms. In-house shared service teams are comfortable in areas of monitoring and curating business data; however, unclaimed property is an unknown territory with a learning curve, compliance gaps, and operational holes that, if ignored, stand to scale up exponentially. The combined fallout from regulatory changes and the recent pandemic have only made the situation riskier, with increased volatility in balancing time-sensitive tasks against stringent regulatory deadlines and growing claimant outreach.
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Review Article
Open Access December 18, 2020

Intelligent Supply Chain Ecosystems: Cloud-Native Architectures and Big Data Integration in Retail and Manufacturing Operations

Abstract The supply chain ecosystem plays a very important role in the success or failure of organizations, markets, and economies. Supply chain ecosystems are broadly defined as supply chain organizations and their collaborators. Today's combined challenges of pandemic shutdowns, rising internet usage, and skyrocketing climate change concerns demand that the supply chain ecosystem better connect with [...] Read more.
The supply chain ecosystem plays a very important role in the success or failure of organizations, markets, and economies. Supply chain ecosystems are broadly defined as supply chain organizations and their collaborators. Today's combined challenges of pandemic shutdowns, rising internet usage, and skyrocketing climate change concerns demand that the supply chain ecosystem better connect with customers, when and how they want, to provide products and services with high levels of availability and zero defects, yet collaboratively do this to reduce transportation and production risks, often at the same time reducing operational costs and carbon footprints. Addressing these challenges, this work explores the cloud delivery capabilities of cloud-native architectures to enable the big data integrations and analytics that are needed to grow smarter supply chain ecosystems. This work describes what smart supply chain ecosystems are and how they are planning to grow their technology and integration capabilities. Discussing the industry-leading advanced and manufacturing technology producer ecosystems, it is explained how their technology collaboration and investment plans are driven by climate change and job creation goals. With these background models, the work examines the new digital reality of customer-driven experiences and economies that are demanding cloud-native and intelligent technology partnerships to deliver climate objectives, operational responsiveness, and compatibility to avoid trading economies of scale for economies of integration. The final objectives of this paper are to share key ideas about the need to balance the growing customer service direct-to-consumer business models with those for collaborative investment by market and industry. In doing this, it hopes to promote an intelligent supply chain ecosystem foundation for helping its different participating countries survive and thrive in the digital economy.
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Review Article

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