Fear can be more harmful than the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in controlling the corona virus disease 2019 epidemic

Investigating the attitude of psychiatrists towards the presence of stigma about COVID-19

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant global disruption, resulting in increased stigma and discrimination towards certain communities and populations affected by the virus. Given that psychiatrists play a crucial role in both preventing and treating the complications associated with disease-related stigma, this study aims to examine their attitude towards the stigma associated with COVID-19.

Methods

This research utilized a cross-sectional survey design to evaluate psychiatrists' attitudes towards COVID-19 stigma. We used a 15-item researcher-made questionnaire with scores ranging from 15 to 75. The questionnaire was distributed to 131 psychiatrists in Tehran (capital city of Iran) from April 9, 2023 to May 26, 2023, with responses collected voluntarily. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, and one-way ANOVA to evaluate stigma attitudes across demographic variables using SPSS software (version 25).

Results

The Cronbach's alpha for the COVID-19 Stigma Attitude Scale for Psychiatrists (CSASP) was determined to be 0.861, indicating strong reliability. Moreover, all questions achieved acceptable corrected item-total correlation values above 0.2. It was revealed that the highest and lowest recorded scores were 68 and 25, respectively (average 51.16 ± 8.83). Also 19 individuals (14.5%) exhibited a weak attitude, 41 individuals (31.3%) displayed a rather weak attitude, 54 individuals (41.2%) showed a rather strong attitude, and 17 individuals (13%) demonstrated a strong attitude toward the presence of COVID-19 stigma. Furthermore, 96 individuals (73.3%) recognized stigma surrounding COVID-19 at the onset of the pandemic; of these, 11 (11.5%) disagreed with the idea of current stigma, while 18 (18.7%) had no opinion. Thus, 67 participants (69.8%) still believe such a stigma exists. Finally, 83 respondents (63.3%) acknowledged stigma related to AIDS and leprosy, with 53 (63.8%) of them also believing in the stigma surrounding COVID-19.

Conclusion

The findings highlighted various attitudes towards the ongoing stigma associated with COVID-19, with most psychiatrists recognizing its persistence throughout the pandemic. The research also points to the interconnectedness of stigma across different diseases, emphasizing common societal factors like fear, misinformation, and cultural biases. This underscores the crucial role psychiatrists play in addressing stigma and its effects on society.

Can Massive Religious Festival Celebrations Encourage a Faster Spread of a Pandemic? The Case of COVID-19 in Israel

This paper attempts to evaluate how massive religious festival celebrations can encourage the faster spread of any pandemic according to our problem statement, such as the case of COVID-19. For example, we evaluate Israel's three major religions, namely  Judaism, Christianity, and the Islamic festival  celebrations, respectively. Firstly, we have the traditional Jewish festivities such as Hanukkah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, and Rosh Hashanah. In the Christian's traditional festivities celebrations, we identified Christmas, Easter Day, and All Saints Day. Finally, the Muslim festivities of Muharram and the Birthday of the Holy Prophet Mohamad. The purpose of  this study was to evaluate if these nine massive religious festival  celebrations are the main reasons for the large spread of COVID-19 in Israel directly or indirectly. In fact, we propose a new methodology to evaluate the impact of any massive religious festival celebration and the fast spread of any pandemic everywhere and anytime. The new indicator is entitled "The National Spread Levels of Infectious Diseases Risk from Massive Religious Festivities Index" (National-SLIDRMRF-Index). Finally, the major finding in this research is that any massive religious events can generate an exponential number of COVID-19 cases constantly. Therefore, this research concluded that we urgently need a standardized index to monitor  and control the expansion of any pandemic such as COVID-19 among different religious groups in the same country. At the same time, we give different policy recommendations to the Israeli government to constantly keep major controls and measures of different religious events in Jerusalem.

Experiences of south Asian key workers in COVID-19 lockdowns in the United Kingdom

Background

This study aims to explore the experiences, challenges, and support given to South Asian Key Workers (food and necessary goods, Transport (delivery and taxi drivers,) working in the United Kingdom in times of the COVID-19 lockdowns between March 2020 to March 2021. The qualitative study aims to explore the experiences, challenges, and financial support given to South Asian Key Workers working in the United Kingdom in times of the COVID-19 lockdowns.

Methods

A phenomenological approach was used to explore the experiences of key workers during the COVID-19 lockdowns in the UK. Snowball sampling was used to contact participants, who were South Asian key workers working in food, necessary goods and transport during COVID-19 lockdown in United Kingdom. Semi-structured, in-depth face to face and telephonic interviews were conducted with study participants in February and March 2021. Inductive qualitative approach was used for data analysis, and data analysis was done parallel with data collection.

Results

Researcher interviewed 17 key workers. During the data analysis four theme categories emerged: 1) Precarious working conditions, 2) Coping with stress and fear, 3) Sustainability pressures, and 4) Insufficient support. Overall, the results show that the many participants had been working in close interaction with co-workers, customers and clients, poor protective measures to prevent catching infection, excessive workload, received limited support from employer, no access to furlough pay, restriction based on immigration status and limited economic support. Instead, they had to use self-devised strategies to cope with the increased workload, economic burdens and protection from infection.

Conclusion

The precarious working conditions exhausted participants physically and economically. They were holding a lot of grievances and hurt inside due to long existing inequalities in the society, where many highly educated and skilled individuals were unable to get stable and secure employments, despite the health vulnerabilities, South Asian key workers worked through the Covid-19 lockdowns to overcome difficulties stem from precarious work. Although currently coping with increased debts, economic burdens and long COVID symptoms, comprehensive job security and entitlement to secure contracts with provisions to sick leaves and pays should be made available to address economic vulnerabilities of south Asian key workers.

The relationship between social media dependency and psychological distress due to misunderstanding and fear of COVID-19 in medical students

Improper use of social media during the COVID-19 outbreak, leading to fear and misunderstanding, can contribute to psychological disorders in vulnerable populations. This descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023 on 511 medical students of Babol University of Medical Sciences. Data were collected using demographic, psychological distress, fear and misunderstanding questionnaires related to COVID-19 and social media dependency. A total of 511 medical students, with an average age of Mean and S.D; 23.57 ± 3.03 participated in the study. The average psychological distress score was 23.82 ± 7.73 (out of 54), the average score of social media dependency was 17.53 ± 3.09 (out of 30), for the fear of COVID-19 was12.63 ± 2.56 (out of 35), and for the misperception of COVID-19 was 0.53 ± 0.09 (out of 18). Path analysis results) showed that direct path from improper use of social media to psychological distress is significant (P < 0.001, B = 0.19) but this relationship is not significant through fear and misperception related to COVID-19. Improper use of social media, identified as the strongest predictor, can directly increase psychological distress in medical students, without mediation through fear and misperception related to COVID-19. These findings should be taken into consideration when designing and evaluating interventions aimed at promoting mental health and fostering appropriate use of social media among students during disease outbreaks.

Evaluating the impact of COVID-19 on vertigo and hearing impairment: A post-recovery analysis

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, has manifested with respiratory symptoms and a spectrum of extra-pulmonary complications. Emerging evidence suggests potential impacts on the auditory and vestibular systems, but the extent and nature of these effects in recovered individuals remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and severity of vertigo and hearing impairment in individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 and to identify potential risk factors associated with these sensory symptoms. A cohort of 250 recovered COVID-19 patients was assessed. Standardized questionnaires, including the Dizziness Handicap Inventory and the Vertigo Symptom Scale, were used to evaluate vertigo. Hearing assessment was conducted using pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry, tympanometry, and oto-acoustic emissions testing. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the association between COVID-19 severity and the occurrence of sensory symptoms, controlling for confounding variables such as age and comorbidities. Of the participants, 10% reported vertigo, varying severity. Hearing assessments revealed that most participants had normal hearing, with an average speech discrimination score of 94.6. Logistic regression analysis indicated a significant association between severe COVID-19 and an increased likelihood of vertigo (OR 2.11, 95% CI 1.02-4.35, P = .043) and hearing impairment (OR 3.29, 95% CI 1.60-6.78, P = .002). This study suggests a significant association between COVID-19 severity and vertigo and hearing impairment prevalence. The findings underscore the importance of sensory symptom assessment in the post-recovery phase of COVID-19, highlighting the need for comprehensive healthcare approaches to manage long-term sequelae.

Gene crosstalk between COVID-19 and preeclampsia revealed by blood transcriptome analysis

Background

The extensive spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has led to a rapid increase in global mortality. Preeclampsia is a commonly observed pregnancy ailment characterized by high maternal morbidity and mortality rates, in addition to the restriction of fetal growth within the uterine environment. Pregnant individuals afflicted with vascular disorders, including preeclampsia, exhibit an increased susceptibility to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection via mechanisms that have not been fully delineated. Additionally, the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying preeclampsia and COVID-19 have not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to discern commonalities in gene expression, regulators, and pathways shared between COVID-19 and preeclampsia. The objective was to uncover potential insights that could contribute to novel treatment strategies for both COVID-19 and preeclampsia.

Method

Transcriptomic datasets for COVID-19 peripheral blood (GSE152418) and preeclampsia blood (GSE48424) were initially sourced from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Subsequent to that, we conducted a subanalysis by selecting females from the GSE152418 dataset and employed the "Deseq2" package to identify genes that exhibited differential expression. Simultaneously, the "limma" package was applied to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the preeclampsia dataset (GSE48424). Following that, an intersection analysis was conducted to identify the common DEGs obtained from both the COVID-19 and preeclampsia datasets. The identified shared DEGs were subsequently utilized for functional enrichment analysis, transcription factor (TF) and microRNAs (miRNA) prediction, pathway analysis, and identification of potential candidate drugs. Finally, to validate the bioinformatics findings, we collected peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) samples from healthy individuals, COVID-19 patients, and Preeclampsia patients. The abundance of the top 10 Hub genes in both diseases was assessed using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR).

Result

A total of 355 overlapping DEGs were identified in both preeclampsia and COVID-19 datasets. Subsequent ontological analysis, encompassing Gene Ontology (GO) functional assessment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, revealed a significant association between the two conditions. Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) were constructed using the STRING database. Additionally, the top 10 hub genes (MRPL11, MRPS12, UQCRH, ATP5I, UQCRQ, ATP5D, COX6B1, ATP5O, ATP5H, NDUFA6) were selected based on their ranking scores using the degree algorithm, which considered the shared DEGs. Moreover, transcription factor-gene interactions, protein-drug interactions, co-regulatory networks of DEGs and miRNAs, and protein-drug interactions involving the shared DEGs were also identified in the datasets. Finally, RT-PCR results confirmed that 10 hub genes do exhibit distinct expression profiles in the two diseases.

Conclusion

This study successfully identified overlapping DEGs, functional pathways, and regulatory elements between COVID-19 and preeclampsia. The findings provide valuable insights into the shared molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets for both diseases. The validation through RT-qPCR further supports the distinct expression profiles of the identified hub genes in COVID-19 and preeclampsia, emphasizing their potential roles as biomarkers or therapeutic targets in these conditions.

A Network Analysis Study to Evaluate Obsessive-Compulsive Beliefs/Dimensions and Personality Beliefs in Patients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): A Cross-Sectional Study in Two Common OCD Subtypes

Objective: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) has been considered a heterogeneous psychiatric disorder. Identifying this heterogeneity can lead to better diagnosis and treatment. The two most common OCD subtypes include contamination/cleaning and danger/checking. This study aimed to identify the network structure of OCD symptoms, personality, and obsessive beliefs in these OCD subtypes. Method : 333 patients with OCD were included in the study (156 patients with the danger/check subtype and 177 patients with the contamination/cleaning subtype). In addition, 276 healthy individuals participated in this study. We used a network analysis approach to determine the OCD central symptoms [nodes]. The Personality Beliefs Questionnaire-Short Form [PBQ-SF], Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory-Revised [OCI-R], and Obsessional Beliefs Questionnaire-44 [OBQ-44] were used for network estimation. Results: The results indicated that the network structure in healthy individuals was different from the network structure in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder [PwOCD]. In healthy individuals, "obsessive" personality belief and "danger" obsessive belief were the most strength nodes and formed the core of the central communication between symptoms in these subjects. Regarding the contamination/cleaning subtype, the most central symptoms include "washing" obsessive symptom, "danger" obsessive belief, and "wash" obsessive symptom. However, "perfect" obsessive beliefs, "check" obsessive symptoms, and "avoidant" personality beliefs were the most central symptoms in the danger/check subtype. These results demonstrated that each of the studied groups had a unique network structure, which is consistent with the heterogeneous nature of OCD. Conclusion: Different OCD subtypes have different cognitive-behavioral network structures. According to the results of this study, these symptoms should be given priority in OCD theoretical models and treatment strategies.

Perceived stigma among Tunisian healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Stigma was a major issue during the COVID-19 pandemic. It posed a serious threat to the lives of healthcare workers (HCWs) who were expected to experience higher levels of stigma and increased psychological distress. This is the first survey to investigate forms and correlates of perceived stigma in Tunisian HCWs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

A cross-sectional web-based survey was conducted between October 8th and November 10th 2020, among 250 Tunisian HCWs. Data were collected using an online questionnaire using the Google Forms® platform. We used a self-reported instrument measuring COVID-19-related stigma, and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) to measure the perceived adequacy of social support from three sources: family, friends, and significant other.

RESULTS

The mean stigma score was 18.6±8. Participants sometimes to often experienced stigma in their relationships with friends (22%), neighbors (27.2%), parents (22,4%), and in social activities (30.8%). This stigma was perceived mainly through avoidance (68.4%), and rarely through verbal (6%) or physical aggression (1.2%). The mean MSPSS total score was 5.26±1.24. In multivariate analysis, depression history (P<0.001), long working experience (P<0.001), having presented ageusia/anosmia (P=0.007) and lower total social support scale (P<0.001) were significantly associated with higher perceived stigma score.

CONCLUSION

Our findings showed that HCWs perceived stigma in professional, societal and familial domains. Social support from family, friends and others seemed to protect against perceived stigma. Proper health education targeting the public appears to be an effective method to prevent social harassment of both HCWs and COVID-19 survivors.

Effect of negative emotions in consumption during the COVID-19 pandemic: A study from Peru

The research examines the negative consumer emotions generated by the perception of social networks or traditional media with consumer behavior during the covid_19 pandemic. The study was developed in Peru with a sample of 220 consumers; the design is quantitative and structural equations were used for data processing. The results indicate that social networks and traditional media are not related to negative emotions, but are related to the change in consumer behavior in the purchase of more products and new products. The research has theoretical implications since it provides evidence to the literature that the negative emotions generated during the covid_19 pandemic are related to changes in consumer behavior, which affect the purchase of more products and new products. The practical implications of the research is for businessmen on the causes of changes in consumer behavior generated during crises. like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prevalence and predictors of perceived COVID-19 stigma within a population-based sample of adults with COVID-19

BACKGROUND

Growing evidence suggests that individuals with COVID-19 face stigmatization, which is associated with poor health outcomes and behaviors. However, very few population-based studies have examined risk factors for experiencing COVID-19 stigma. This study examined prevalence and predictors of perceived COVID-19 stigma using a population-based probability sample of adults with COVID-19.

METHODS

We included adults with polymerase chain reaction-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 in Michigan between January 1, 2020 and July 31, 2021. Perceived COVID-19 stigma was considered present if a respondent answered affirmatively to any of the following items due to people thinking they might have COVID-19: "you were treated badly," "people acted as if they were scared of you," and "you were threatened or harassed." We conducted modified Poisson regression with robust standard errors to estimate associations between perceived COVID-19 stigma and potential predictors, including sex, age, race and ethnicity, household income, education, employment, smoking status, body mass index, preexisting diagnosed physical or mental comorbidities, and COVID-19 illness severity.

RESULTS

Perceived COVID-19 stigma was commonly reported among our respondents (38.8%, n = 2,759). Compared to those over 65 years, respondents who were 18 - 34 (adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR): 1.41, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.12 - 1.77) and 35 - 44 years old (aPR: 1.66, 95% CI: 1.31 - 2.09) reported higher perceived stigma. Female respondents had 1.23 times higher prevalence of perceived COVID-19 stigma (95% CI: 1.10 - 1.37) than male respondents and non-Hispanic Black respondents had 1.22 times higher prevalence of perceived COVID-19 stigma (95% CI: 1.04 - 1.44) than non-Hispanic White respondents. Moreover, respondents with pre-existing diagnosed psychological or psychiatric comorbidities were more likely to report perceived COVID-19 stigma (aPR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.13 - 1.48) compared to those without diagnosed comorbidities. Respondents with very severe COVID-19 symptoms were also more likely to report perceived COVID-19 stigma (aPR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.23 - 1.75) than those with asymptomatic or mild symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that populations who are marginalized in United States, such as females, non-Hispanic Black adults, or individuals with chronic conditions, are more likely to report perceived COVID-19 stigma. Continuing to monitor COVID-19 stigma, especially in vulnerable populations, may provide useful insights for anti-stigma campaigns and future pandemics.

Identification of psychological flexibility and inflexibility profiles during the COVID-19 pandemic

BACKGROUND

The first coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) wave and lockdown adversely affected the lives of people in diverse ways.

AIMS

This study used a person-centered approach to identify patterns of engagement in the 12 psychological flexibility (PF) and inflexibility (PI) processes to manage the first COVID-19 wave and lockdown hardships.

MATERIALS & METHODS

A total of 1035 Italian adults completed an online survey.

RESULTS

Latent profile analyses conducted on the 12 PI/PF processes measured by the Multidimensional Psychological Flexibility Inventory identified five profiles; three reflected gradations of high to low PF with corresponding inverse levels of PI, while two represented more complex relationships between PI and PF. After controlling for relevant socio-demographic and COVID-19/lockdown factors, the five profiles differed in mental health (depression, anxiety, and COVID-19 distress). Essentially a gradient of progressive decreases in all PI processes (except experiential avoidance) corresponded with increments in mental health across all profiles. Two profiles, which evidenced the highest levels of mental health (highly flexible and moderately flexible profiles), also had the greatest proportion of the sample 56.42% (n = 584), and the highest levels of PF and experiential avoidance.

DISCUSSION

Findings from this and similar studies suggest intersecting complex relationships among the PI/PF processes that are likely to shift in response to changing contexts. We suggest this network of relationships is better represented by a three-dimensional PF/PI hexaflex than a simplistic two-dimensional depiction of the model.

CONCLUSION

Distinguishing different PF/PI profiles identified groups most at risk for the adverse mental health impacts of the pandemic and exposed variations in the mental health protective and risk roles of PF and PI processes, respectively, that can inform ACT-based mental health promotion interventions.

Mental Health Status of Indian Migrant Workers in the United Arab Emirates during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Migration has become a de facto phenomenon in the contemporary globalized world and India is not untouched. Indian labourers from the states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh migrated to the UAE in search of better jobs and prospects. They migrated alone and left behind their families. The distance between them and their family can also create mental disorders; therefore, it becomes necessary to analyze the mental health of the migrant workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The current study is quantitative and based on a sample survey approach. The researchers collected 416 samples through a structured questionnaire and used the snowball sampling technique. Descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation coefficient, chi-square test and logistic regression were utilized to analyze and interpret the results. The outbreak of coronavirus disturbed their livelihood resulting in a cut to their salary or earnings; in total, 83% of migrants were affected by the COVID-19 outbreak in terms of loss of their income, out of which 76% were affected by less than AED 1000. The respondents' mental health was worrisome, but they were hopeful for the future. In total, 73.5% of respondents felt nervous, 62% felt depressed, 77% felt lonely, 63.4% had a hard time sleeping, and 63% had difficulties concentrating. The findings of the study draw attention to the policymakers to carry out necessary provisions to the targeted psychologically affected community. The findings also suggest creating awareness among the people by using social networking sites and diagnosing mental disorders on an urgent basis.

Impact of Social Media Usage on Users' COVID-19 Protective Behavior: Survey Study in Indonesia

BACKGROUND

Social media have become the source of choice for many users to search for health information on COVID-19 despite possible detrimental consequences. Several studies have analyzed the association between health information-searching behavior and mental health. Some of these studies examined users' intentions in searching health information on social media and the impact of social media use on mental health in Indonesia.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates both active and passive participation in social media, shedding light on cofounding effects from these different forms of engagement. In addition, this study analyses the role of trust in social media platforms and its effect on public health outcomes. Thus, the purpose of this study is to analyze the impact of social media usage on COVID-19 protective behavior in Indonesia. The most commonly used social media platforms are Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, and Twitter.

METHODS

We used primary data from an online survey. We processed 414 answers to a structured questionnaire to evaluate the relationship between these users' active and passive participation in social media, trust in social media, anxiety, self-efficacy, and protective behavior to COVID-19. We modeled the data using partial least square structural equation modeling.

RESULTS

This study reveals that social media trust is a crucial antecedent, where trust in social media is positively associated with active contribution and passive consumption of COVID-19 content in social media, users' anxiety, self-efficacy, and protective behavior. This study found that active contribution of content related to COVID-19 on social media is positively correlated with anxiety, while passive participation increases self-efficacy and, in turn, protective behavior. This study also found that active participation is associated with negative health outcomes, while passive participation has the opposite effects. The results of this study can potentially be used for other infectious diseases, for example, dengue fever and diseases that can be transmitted through the air and have handling protocols similar to that of COVID-19.

CONCLUSIONS

Public health campaigns can use social media for health promotion. Public health campaigns should post positive messages and distil the received information parsimoniously to avoid unnecessary and possibly counterproductive increased anxiety of the users.

Racially minoritized people’s experiences of racism during COVID-19 in Australia: A qualitative study

OBJECTIVE

Drawing from a broader study exploring how New South Wales community members from racially minoritized backgrounds experienced living through a pandemic, this paper reports specifically on experiences of racism during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

METHODS

Using an in-depth, qualitative interpretive approach, 11 semi-structured interviews and one focus group hosting three participants (n=14) were held via an online videoconferencing platform from September to December 2020. Inductive thematic analysis was undertaken using QRS NVivo as a data management tool.

RESULTS

Racism was heightened during the pandemic and experienced in various ways by racially minoritized peoples in New South Wales. All participants in this research cited experiences of racism that impacted their wellbeing during COVID-19. These experiences are represented by the following four themes: experiencing racism is common; how racisms are experienced; increased fear of racism during COVID-19; and ways of coping with racisms.

CONCLUSIONS

Racism was heightened during the pandemic and generated fear and anxiety that prevented racially minoritized peoples from participating in everyday life.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH

Messaging from broader public platforms must be harnessed to stop the spread of moral panic so that during times of pandemic, public health strategies need only confirmation, not creation.

A systematic review on the cultural factors associated with stigma during pandemics

Both public stigma and perceived self-stigma are prevalent during pandemics threatening a divide among the global community. This systematic review examined the cultural factors associated with viral respiratory-related pandemic stigma. Following PRISMA guidelines, the keywords, "culture, stigma, and pandemic" were searched across relevant databases for empirical papers between January 2000 to March 2022. Quality assessment and coding were adopted in the screening process. Thirty-one articles were included in the final analysis. Themes revealed that collectivistic values, cultural identities, and non-western regions were associated with public (others) stigma; mismatch of cultural values, minority groups, and North America, Asia, Oceania, and African regions were associated with higher perceived and self-stigma. We further mapped the themes into a proposed systemic cultural stigma model to integrate the dynamic intersection of cultural values, identity, and ecology. The cultural factors and their influence on stigma were then explained by drawing on two evolutionary theories: Cultural rationality theory and scapegoating theory. Lastly, we proposed culturally sensitive and responsive practices for stigma management at the community level, especially in non-Western regions during the pandemic recovery phase.

Causing trouble and being transmissible: COVID-19 survivors’ experiences of stigma and discrimination in South Korea

Background

The stigma associated with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is relatively neglected in policies for handling the disease. Stigmatization occurs only within specific social contexts in local societies.

Objective

This study aims to examine COVID-19 survivors’ experiences of social stigma and discrimination in South Korea in the first 2 years of the pandemic.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted.

Results

Of 52 participants, 45 reported that they had to cope with stigma and discrimination in their intimate social relationships, workplaces, and children’s schools, ranging from subtle actions to job loss. Sexual minorities who were involved in mass disease transmission in the early part of the pandemic experienced a higher level of stigmatization. The stigmatization dealt with in this study was related to two themes: survivors’ sense of causing trouble and possibility of transmission.

Conclusion

By intertwining this stigma with the experiences of public health measures through the voices of survivors, this study reveals the local context of East Asia in terms of culture-specific aspects of COVID-19-related stigma.

Stigmatizing Monkeypox and COVID-19: A Comparative Framing Study of The Washington Post's Online News

BACKGROUND

Stigma relating to health can result in a broad range of vulnerabilities and risks for patients and healthcare providers. The media play a role in people's understanding of health, and stigma is socially constructed through many communication channels, including media framing. Recent health issues affected by stigma include monkeypox and COVID-19.

OBJECTIVES

This research aimed to examine how The Washington Post (WP) framed the stigma around monkeypox and COVID-19. Guided by framing theory and stigma theory, online news coverage of monkeypox and COVID-19 was analyzed to understand the construction of social stigma through media frames.

METHODS

This research used qualitative content analysis to compare news framings in The Washington Post's online news coverage of monkeypox and COVID-19.

RESULTS

Using endemic, reassurance, and sexual-transmission frames, The Washington Post predominantly defined Africa as the source of monkeypox outbreaks, indirectly labeled gays as a specific group more likely to be infected with monkeypox, and emphasized that there was no need to worry about the spread of the monkeypox virus. In its COVID-19 coverage, The Washington Post adopted endemic and panic frames to describe China as the source of the coronavirus and to construct an image of panic regarding the spread of the virus.

CONCLUSIONS

These stigma discourses are essentially manifestations of racism, xenophobia, and sexism in public health issues. This research confirms that the media reinforces the stigma phenomenon in relation to health through framing and provides suggestions for the media to mitigate this issue from a framing perspective.

Stigma, Post-traumatic Stress, and COVID-19 Vaccination Intent in Mongolia, India, and the United States

Background: Stigma and discrimination during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic have increased precipitously worldwide. This multinational study examines how stigma, blaming groups for virus spread, concern regarding contracting the virus, resource loss, life satisfaction, and protective behaviors that help control the spread of COVID-19 are associated with post-traumatic stress and vaccine intent in Mongolia, India, and the United States. Method: 1429 people in Mongolia, India, and the United States completed measures assessing stigma during the COVID-19 pandemic, post-traumatic stress, blame, protective behaviors, and vaccine intent. Results: Mean post-traumatic stress scores in all three countries exceeded the cut-off that is commonly used to determine probable post-traumatic stress. Post-traumatic stress was associated with COVID-19 stigma experience, personal behavior change due to COVID-19 stigma, blaming groups for the spread of COVID-19, fear of COVID-19, and resource loss. In India and the United States, personal behavior change due to COVID-19 stigma, anger at individuals spreading COVID-19, and perceived susceptibility to illness were positively associated with vaccine intent. Conclusions: Stigma is a collateral stressor during the pandemic. The findings underscore the importance of prompt action to address stigma as a deleterious consequence of the pandemic. The findings illuminate potential barriers to receiving the vaccine and provide direction for future research to address barriers.

Impact of COVID-19 on youth's mental health in Egypt

Background

Youth represent 21% of the Egyptian population; such proportion can create a leading demographic power for economic development and transition. However, with the current COVID-19 pandemic, everyone is exposed to more than usual stressors, adding a burden to their mental health and well-being.

Aim

This study aims to understand the pandemic's effect on youth's mental health in Egypt to strengthen the intervention areas needed to tackle such issues.

Methods

This observational, analytical, cross-sectional study employed internet platforms of Facebook & WhatsApp groups for a web-based survey that included 412 respondents between 15 and 30 years old. RESULTS The median age of the respondents was 22 years. At least 30% reported increased violence in the street and/or household, and 27.4% of the respondents have considered visiting a psychiatrist during the last period.

Conclusion

It is evident that the current situation is unprecedented and challenging for everyone; however, some populations are more vulnerable than others. Thus, it's important to support young people to ensure that the whole community can withstand the pandemic. The governments should support and mitigate some of the stresses that can be directly amended, like the education and job security concerns.

Fears and uncertainties of expectant mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic: trying to reclaim control

Purpose

The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak has exponentially spread across the globe and formed one of the greatest health threats in history. Pregnant women are vulnerable, and their vulnerability is amplified by the associated containment measures of the pandemic. In this study, we aim to explore and describe expectant mothers’ experiences during the lockdown of COVID-19.

Method

A qualitative descriptive design was used. Eighteen pregnant and postpartum women were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling. Semi-structured phone call interviews were conducted by a female researcher. Braun and Clarke’s thematic data analysis was followed.

Results

Three main themes are developed: (1) Living with fears and uncertainties amid the COVID-19 pandemic, (2) Lockdown disrupting the normalcy of pregnancy, (3) Trying to control the chaos of life. Five subthemes underlined the three themes.

Conclusion

Findings portrayed expectant mothers’ uncertainties, fears, and the fragility of the healthcare systems in responding to mothers’ needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the pandemic has resulted in disruption of the normalcy of pregnancy, mothers sought adaptive means to protect themselves and maintain control. Governmental authorities and healthcare providers are directly responsible to maintain considerate perinatal care services for expectant mothers during lockdown and crises.

Integrity of the editing and publishing process is the basis for improving an academic journal's Impact Factor

BACKGROUND

Journal Impact Factor™ (JIF) is often used to evaluate the relative reputation and quality of academic journals in their respective fields, and can greatly influence the quality and scope of subsequent manuscript submissions. Therefore, many if not all academic journals are interested in increasing their JIF, to improve their academic impact.

AIM

To determine the importance of the integrity of the editorial and publication process in improving the academic influence of academic journals and the JIF of academic journals.

METHODS

In this paper, we describe our statistical analysis of bibliometric factors - including the 2021 JIFs released in the Journal Citation Report™ 2022, discipline rankings, received and published articles in 2019-2021, and webpage visits and downloads - for seven journals published by Baishideng Publishing Group (Baishideng) and indexed in Science Citation Index Expanded™; ultimately, we introduce and discuss the editing and publishing processes of Baishideng's journals in their entirety, as they form the basis for our objective of safeguarding and bolstering integrity in academic publication.

RESULTS

For the seven journals assessed, their 2021 JIFs were basically unchanged from 2020, with the current metric ranging from 5.374 for World Journal of Gastroenterology (WJG) to 1.534 for World Journal of Clinical Cases (WJCC). Further assessments of the journals' bibliometrics from 2019 to 2020, showed that World Journal of Stem Cells has the highest self-citation rate (1.43%) and World Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery has the lowest (0.21%). Additionally, the total 3012 articles published during this period were cited by more than 20000 articles in approximately 8000 academic journals. Of note, the 1102 articles published in WJG were cited by articles in 3059 journals, among which 171 journals have a JIF of > 10, including internationally renowned academic journals such as CA-A Cancer Journal for Clinicians (2021 JIF 286.130, record count: 1), Lancet (2021 JIF 202.731, record count: 4), Nature Reviews Immunology (2021 JIF 108.555, record count: 2), Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology (2021 JIF 73.082, record count: 9), Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology (2021 JIF 45.042, record count: 8), Gastroenterology (2021 JIF 33.883, record count: 19), and Gut (2021 JIF 31.793, record count: 21). This suggests that Baishideng's journals have been widely recognized for their academic quality. In the Reference Citation Analysis (RCA) database, all seven Baishideng-published journals obtained a 2022 Journal Article Influence Index (JAII). For example, WJG has a 2022 JAII of 22.048, ranking 18th out of 102 journals in the field of gastroenterology & hepatology in the RCA, with 469909 total citations (6/102) and 21313 total articles (5/102). The numbers of manuscripts received and published in 2021 were both higher than those in 2019-2020. For example, WJCC received a total of 3650 manuscripts in 2021, which is 91.1% higher than those in 2019-2020 (average: 1910 papers/year). In 2021, WJCC published 1296 articles, representing an increase of 105.1% compared to those in 2019-2020 (average: 632 articles/year). The numbers of webpage visits and downloads received by the seven journals have increased year by year. For example, the number of total visits received by WJG in 2019-2021 was 1974052 in 2019, 2317835 in 2020 (increased by 17.4% compared with that in 2019), and 2652555 in 2021 (increased by 4.4% compared with that in 2020). The visitors were from more than 220 countries and regions worldwide, such as the United States, China, and the United Kingdom. Open access (OA) plays a vital role in improving the quality, efficiency, transparency, and integrity of academic journal publishing. From 2019 to 2021, a total of 5543 OA articles were published in the seven journals, of which 2083 (37.6%) were invited and published free-of-charge. During the same period, 1683 articles were published in WJG, and the authors were from more than 70 countries and regions. For the total 5543 articles published in the seven journals from 2019 to 2021, 3903 article quality tracking reports were received after the online publication of these articles. The quality of the articles was further evaluated through the Baishideng's article quality and author evaluation tracking system, with 4655 articles (84.0%) having received author evaluation and feedback, which contributes to tracking metrics for authors' satisfaction with the collective publication processes. From March 25, 2021 to June 28, 2022, the seven journals received a total of 424 reader evaluations and 229 letters from readers; this subsequent reader engagement demonstrates that the popularity of the published articles and the volume of their readership audience were improved through the reader evaluation system.

CONCLUSION

Ultimately, the findings from our bibliometric assessments indicate that establishing, promoting and actively practicing processes that safeguard and bolster the integrity of the editing and publication process also help to improve the academic influence of academic journals, which itself is the cornerstone for improving JIF.

Perceived risk of COVID-19 diagnosis and stigma among Nigerians

The World Health Organization (WHO) classified Nigeria as one of the 13 African countries with a higher risk of spreading COVID-19. Although the Nigerian government and its health agencies set directives in place to help curb the spread of COVID-19, there are instances of unconcerned attitudes and adherence to false and superstitious beliefs surrounding COVID-19 among Nigerians. The current study examined the general perception of COVID-19 risk among Nigerians. Additionally, it examined the fear of possible stigmatization if an individual is diagnosed with COVID-19. A cross-section of 332 Nigerian men and women responded to measures on perceived vulnerability to diseases, perception of risk of being infected with COVID-19, COVID-19 stigma, and social and demographic characteristics. The findings show that respondents with a higher perception of vulnerability to diseases reported higher COVID-19 risk and perception of COVID-19-related stigma. Further, we found that gender, age, and education impacted COVID-19 risk and perception of COVID-19-related stigma. Our findings suggest that risk perceptions and attitudes towards COVID-19 can impact the level of preparedness against a pandemic. Also, the findings could inform strategies for the proper implementation of health protective measures at national, state, and local government levels during a viral outbreak.

Exploring the Mental, Social, and Lifestyle Effects of a Positive COVID-19 Infection on Syrian Refugees in Jordan: A Qualitative Study

Migrants and refugees are among the vulnerable populations that suffered disproportionately from the COVID-19 crisis. However, their experiences with COVID-19 positivity status have not been investigated. This study explored the physical, mental, and psychosocial impacts of a positive COVID-19 diagnosis on Syrian refugees living in Jordan. Using a qualitative approach, twenty phone interviews were conducted with ten adult Syrian refugees living within the camp and ten refugees living in non-camp (host community) settings in Jordan. Follow-up interviews with five health care providers at a refugee camp were conducted to explore the services and support provided to the refugees with COVID-19 infection. The findings were thematically analyzed and grouped into major themes, subthemes, and emerging themes. Refugees living within camp settings had better access to testing, healthcare, and disease management and did not experience fear of being deported. Refugees in both settings suffered mental and psychosocial health impacts, social isolation, fear of death, and disease complications. COVID-19 infection has negatively impacted refugees' well-being with noticeable disparities across the different living conditions. Refugees living within host community settings may need more support for managing their condition, accessibility to free testing, as well as treatment and healthcare services.

Stigma Associated with COVID-19 Among Health Care Workers in Indonesia

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the stigma associated with coronavirus disease - 2019 (COVID-19) among health care workers (HCWs) in Indonesia during the early phase of the pandemic.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 12 hospitals across the country in March, 2020. A logistic regression was employed to assess the association between stigma and explanatory variables.

RESULTS

In total, 288 HCWs were surveyed, of which 93.4% had never experienced any outbreaks. Approximately 21.9% of the respondents had stigma associated with COVID-19. HCWs who were doctors, had not participated in trainings related to COVID-19, worked in the capital of the province, worked at private hospitals, or worked at a hospital with COVID-19 triage protocols were likely to have no stigma associated with COVID-19.

CONCLUSIONS

The stigma associated with COVID-19 is relatively high among HCWs in the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia. Adequate dissemination of knowledge and adequate protection are necessary to reduce stigma among HCWs.

The impact of COVID-19 on the delivery of care by Australian primary health care nurses

This qualitative study describes the impact of the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic on the provision of care by Australian primary health care (PHC) nurses. Participants were purposefully recruited following completion of a national survey about PHC nurses' experiences during the pandemic. Twenty-five semi-structured interviews were conducted by two experienced researchers and professionally transcribed. The mean duration of interviews was 38.5 min. Thematic analysis revealed three themes about the impact of COVID-19 on PHC nurses' provision of care. These were: workplace adjustments, changes in healthcare delivery and concerns about long-term health impacts of COVID-19. The sudden disruption and de-stabilisation of care delivery was reported as significantly impacting on initial service provision, although participants reported adapting quickly and finding new ways to deliver care. The impact of the pandemic on high risk communities and mental health support needs of clients created additional challenges, although some participants reported positive outcomes such as increased confidence of some clients to provide self-care. There were concerns about the potential long-term health impact on communities due to reduced levels of cancer screening, disrupted management of chronic conditions and reduced opportunistic health assessments. Findings from this study demonstrated how PHC nurses played an important role in the continued provision of PHC by adapting quickly to changed circumstances, adjusting and modifying clinical activities, and by monitoring for future potential negative outcomes from the pandemic. These findings are important for the future management of pandemics and inform the long-term planning of PHC services.

Verification of Psychophysiological Effects of Satoyama Activities on Older Adult Volunteers and Young People in Post-COVID-19 Society: A Case Study of Matsudo City, Japan

Many scholars have focused on Satoyama, which is characterized by mountains or villages away from the urban spaces. Our objective is to verify its psychophysiological effects on people performing usual Satoyama activities in ignored, small urban green spaces to help people find ways to stay healthy in post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) society. In this study, 12 older adult volunteers from the "Forest around the Mountains" Nonprofit Organization and 12 young people from the university were invited as study subjects. They were asked to observe nature for 10 min and work for 30 min in the small green space "Forest around the Mountains". The Profile of Mood States 2nd Edition (POMS) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventor (STAI) were used as psychological scales to detect their psychological restoration and blood pressure before and after the Satoyama activity. Their heart rate during the activity was used as the physiological indicator. The study showed that, as Satoyama volunteers, the older adults group had significant restorative psychophysiological effects during this experiment compared to the younger group; their systolic and diastolic blood pressure dropped significantly after Satoyama activities, On the other hand, the young group have been in the normotensive range before or after Satoyama activities The psychological indicators such as Anger-hostility, Confusion-bewilderment, and Tension-anxiety were significantly lower in the younger group but were still significantly higher than the indicators of the older adults. In general, this study found that Satoyama activities benefited young and older participants, especially older adults with high blood pressure. Satoyama activities in small urban green spaces are thus necessary and worth promoting in the post-COVID-19 era.

Evolution of World Journal of Clinical Cases over the past 5 years

Analysis of the articles published in any journal is necessary to ascertain the performance of the journal in the academia. The author made a scientometric analysis of the articles published in the World Journal of Clinical Cases in the past 5 years and present the data to the readers.

Children's representations of the COVID-19 lockdown and pandemic through drawings

The COVID-19 pandemic and the measures to face it have placed children and their caregivers in front of many challenges that could represent sources of stress. This work aims to explore the point of view of children through drawing, as a spontaneous means of expression, relating it to parents' perceptions of children's difficulties, strengths, and mentalization skills. The sample consists of 18 children (mean age = 8.22, SD = 1.79). Parents were asked to complete: a socio-demographic questionnaire with information on the impact of COVID-19 on the family, the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, and the Everyday Mindreading Scale. Children were asked to draw three moments: "Before" the pandemic, "During" the lockdown, and "After," when the COVID-19 will be passed. The drawings were coded by constructing a content and expressive analysis grid, adapting coding systems found in the literature. Data were collected at the beginning of the summer of 2020, just after the first lockdown period (from March to May 2020 in Italy). The results of the present work are in line with previous studies that reported experiences of wellbeing and tranquility of children in time spent at home with family during the pandemic. From the drawings emerges that children feel sufficiently able to master the situation, as reflected by including themselves in drawings and providing many details of the house in "During" drawings. The literature also reports a feeling of sadness/loneliness caused by the lack of friends, an element that we also find in the tendency to represent friends significantly more in the drawings concerning the future. Some contents of drawings (inclusion of friends, relatives, and parents) appeared associated with emotional, interpersonal, and mentalizing abilities of children, as perceived by parents. Exploring children's representations of a stressful event like the pandemic through drawings allows to focus both on their difficulties and on their resources, with useful implications for the educational support.

Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic Perception on Job Stress of Construction Workers

Construction has been regarded as one of the most stressful industries, and the COVID-19 pandemic has deteriorated this situation. This research developed and tested a model of the impact of COVID-19 pandemic perception on job stress of construction workers. Both problem-focused and emotion-focused coping were considered as mediators. Empirical data were collected using a detailed questionnaire from the Chinese construction industry. The results showed that pandemic perception was significantly related to psychological and physical stress. Emotion-focused coping was mainly triggered by pandemic fear and job insecurity, while problem-focused coping was mainly triggered by organizational pandemic response. Furthermore, the effects of pandemic fear and organizational pandemic response on job stress were mediated by problem-focused coping. Finally, the theoretical and practical significance, research limitations, and future research directions of this study are discussed.

Design of vestibules as transitional spaces in infection control: Necessity of working space changes to cope with communicable infections

BACKGROUND: After the spread of infectious diseases, people stay at home as a shelter space to be safe and sound. Current homes and work spaces have shown not to be a good environment for health and hygiene. During different crises of infectious diseases, architects and designers analyze the needs for change and evolve of environments to achieve a suitable design that prevents the spread of pathogens. OBJECTIVES: This proper design should help improve people’s living standards and mental health in terms of functionality and environmental psychology. METHODS: In the traditional architecture of some countries, such as Canada, Japan, and Iran, the vestibule has provided some possibility of separating the external and internal space. The design of the intermediate space with the appropriate scale of today’s buildings at the entrance can create a filter between the indoor and outdoor environments by dividing these spaces. RESULTS: The use of intermediate space by modern technology can prevent the transfer of viral infection into the interior of the building. This can be done by removing the virus from clothes, changing or covering shoes, disinfecting equipment, separating infected items, and creating proper ventilation in the intermediate space so that microorganisms cannot be transferred into the safe environment. CONCLUSIONS: In this paper, we looked at the architectural design in a new light to have a healthier life and more security, by inspiration of the patterns in traditional architecture and the human body.

COVID-19 Pandemic: Assessment of Current Strategies and Socio-economic Impact

The coronavirus disease is a respiratory tract disorder which causes pneumonia-like symptoms in severe patients and mild flu-like symptoms in mild symptomatic cases first noticed in Wuhan, China. DNA sequencing and further analysis shows it to be 79% like the 2002 SARS-CoV and 50% like the 2012 MERS-CoV. It was also observed that the novel coronavirus’s spike protein was larger and very different from its previously known strains. For diagnosis, multiple strategies were developed and real time reverse-transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique was determined to be the best technique. The CT scan was also found effective majorly for the continuous assessment of the disease. Treatment strategies used in previous outbreaks were looked into and put to trial like convalescent plasma therapy. Vaccine development using various genetic engineering strategies are going on across the world. To contain the spread of the disease, countries with positive cases were put under lockdown to break the chain of spread. These lockdowns forced industries, offices, schools, religious places, stadiums, travel, and many more to close which impacted the economies of all the major countries. Lesser human interaction and more use of social media has impacted the social aspects of human life. Cases of domestic violence and mental stress increased among households. Economic stimulus package was announced by various countries to curb the socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Change of Residents’ Attitudes and Behaviors toward Urban Green Space Pre- and Post- COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed and influenced people’s attitudes and behaviors toward visiting green spaces. This paper aims to explore the association between residents’ health and urban green spaces (UGS) through an in-depth study of changes in residents’ use of UGS under the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Wuhan East Lake Greenway Park was selected as the location for the field survey and in-depth interviews. At the same time, an online survey was also conducted (total number = 302) regarding participants’ physical and mental health and their attitude and behavior toward the UGS. A paired sample t-test and binary logistic regression were performed to investigate the association between participants’ health and UGS during COVID-19. The results show that: (1) the COVID-19 pandemic has primarily changed the leisure patterns of parks, with potential impacts on the physical and mental health of participants; (2) the purpose, frequency, timing, and preferred areas of participants’ park visits have changed to varying degrees after the pandemic, highlighting the important role and benefits of UGSs; (3) the physical and mental health of participants and urban development issues reflected by UGS use are prominent. This study reveals that awareness of the construction and protection of UGSs is an important prerequisite for ensuring the health of urban residents.

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Infection-Related Stigma, Depression, Anxiety, and Stress in Iranian Healthcare Workers

Background

Psychological conditions aggravate during outbreaks. Here, we have discussed the existing COVID-19 depression, anxiety, and stress and the resulting stigma and its different aspects in Iranian health care workers and their 1^st-degree relatives.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, information of our study groups (237 participants including health care workers and their nuclear family members) was collected via two online stigma and depression, anxiety, and stress scale (DASS) questionnaires.

Results

The DASS questionnaire's mean depression, anxiety, and stress scores were 13.59 ± 5.76, 11.07 ± 4.38, and 15.05 ± 5.86, respectively, in our study population. Marriage status was effective on depression and stress scores. Married participants were having less depression (P = 0.008) but more stressful (P = 0.029) than single ones. Education was found to be effective on anxiety and stress scores. Those with an associate, master, Ph.D., and higher college degrees were significantly less anxious and stressed than those with a diploma or bachelor's degrees (P = 0.032 and 0.016, respectively, for anxiety and stress). Participants with a history of psychiatric conditions showed significantly higher depression, anxiety, and stress rates than those without a past psychiatric condition (P = 0.001). Healthcare workers and their nuclear family members suffer from severe stigma (mean stigma scores were 33.57 and 33.17, respectively).

Conclusions

Healthcare workers and their nuclear family members in Iran suffer from severe COVID-19 related stigma. We also showed that depression, anxiety, and stress are common among Iranian Healthcare workers and their nuclear family members during this pandemic. This study showed that people with preexisting psychiatric conditions need extra mental care during the pandemic.

Patients Perceived Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Dental Abscess Management in Periurban District, Ghana

Background

Seeking conventional oral health care for various dental conditions is still a challenge for many worldwide and poses a global public health challenge. It is not until the individual starts experiencing pain and disfigurement of the facial profile that they seek dental care after many self-care interventions have failed. This study sought to determine perceived knowledge, attitude, practice, and satisfaction of dental abscess management among dental abscess patients (DAPs).

Methods

The research used a cross-sectional design to collect data from patients who visited the Dental Department of Effiduase Government Hospital with dental abscess from 6 May 2020–27 August 2020. A total sample size of 82 was selected from a population of 377. About 76 DAPs who met the inclusion criteria and consented to participate were interviewed.

Results

About 57% of respondents believed that dental caries caused their abscess. However, 46% sought medical treatment between 0 and 2 weeks after the onset of their dental abscess, while the rest did that after 3 weeks. Close to 64.5% have ever had episode of abscess before current one which they managed with alternative treatment. About 95% of respondents saw the hospital as a good place for dental care. A significant association was established between patient's level of education and influence to seek orthodox treatment (p = 0.015, Fisher's exact test (FET)). Another significant association was established between patient's level of education and the kind of alternative treatment they used (p = 0.016, Fisher's exact test (FET)).

Conclusions

Most DAPs believe that dental caries was the main cause of dental abscess. DAPs sought late medical care, after they have tried a failed alternative treatment. DAPs expressed satisfaction with reception, equipment and materials, and medicines used. Majority of the patients rated the cost of dental care in the facility as affordable.

The Associations of Experiencing the COVID-19 Pandemic With Religiosity and Spirituality: A Cross-Sectional Study in Czech Adults

Objectives: We investigated the associations between religiosity/spirituality and respondents’ changes in their relationships, feelings, thinking, and behaviour during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Czech Republic.

Methods: A sample of Czech adults (n = 1,434; 48.3 ± 16.4 years; 49.65% women) participated in the online survey. We measured spirituality, religiosity, self-reported changes in relationships, disrupted feelings, and changes in behaviour during the pandemic.

Results: Spiritual respondents were more likely to report increased physical activity, sex, reading and self-education, with odds ratios (ORs) ranging from 1.26 (95% confidence interval 1.09–1.46) to 1.56 (1.31–1.86). The combination of spirituality and religiosity led to an increase in the range of ORs to 1.57–2.69. Spiritual and religious participants were less likely to feel the decrease of hope by 70%, while mere spirituality significantly reduced the decrease of hope by only 30%. Religiosity itself led to a lower risk of reporting a disrupted day structure with an OR = 0.74 (0.58–0.95).

Conclusion: Religiosity and spirituality separately help people during a pandemic in some areas. Especially their combination has a more positive impact on relationships, feelings, and behaviour.

Pneumonia in Nervous System Injuries: An Analytic Review of Literature and Recommendations

Pneumonia is one of the most common complications in intensive care units and is the most common nosocomial infection in this setting. Patients with neurocritical conditions who are admitted to ICUs are no exception, and in fact, are more prone to infections such as pneumonia because of factors such as swallow dysfunction, need for mechanical ventilation, longer length of stay in hospitals, etc. Common central nervous system pathologies such as ischemic stroke, traumatic brain injury, subarachnoid hemorrhage, intracerebral hemorrhage, neuromuscular disorders, status epilepticus, and demyelinating diseases can cause long in-hospital admissions and increase the risk of pneumonia each with a mechanism of its own. Brain injury-induced immunosuppression syndrome is usually considered the common mechanism through which patients with critical central nervous system conditions become susceptible to different kinds of infection including pneumonia. Evaluating the patients and assessment of the risk factors can lead our attention toward better infection control in this population and therefore decrease the risk of infections in central nervous system injuries.

A Comparative Analysis on the Career Perceptions of Tourism Management Students Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The serious impact of the COVID-19 pandemic also affected educational institutions offering tourism programs and students' perceptions of their future career in the industry. The study determined and compared the career perceptions of Tourism Management students in Far Eastern University Manila, Philippines before and during the COVID-19 pandemic with the end view of providing significant inputs to the development of programs for the tourism students in relation to their career opportunities. Using the mixed methods approach and the simple random and purposive sampling techniques, 196 third year tourism management students enrolled in AY 2020-2021 in a private Institution in Manila, Philippines completed the researcher-made survey questionnaire to gather quantitative data. On the other hand, focus group discussion (FGD) was conducted on six pre-selected student-participants to collect qualitative data. The use of a paired sample T-Test proved that there is a significant difference in the student career perception before and during the pandemic. The qualitative findings revealed that: 1) the Tourism Industry as a major business sector was severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic; 2) the students perceive their career opportunities in the Tourism Industry during this pandemic as full of uncertainties; 3) implementing a relevant and timely program that will address the students' wants and needs must be put into action to help the students adapt to the current situation. Accordingly, Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) are encouraged to provide the students a more comprehensive student career opportunity program that will address the changes in student career perceptions and uncertainties on their future career opportunities in the Tourism Industry.

Factors Associated With Highest Symptoms of Anxiety During COVID-19: Cross-Cultural Study of 23 Countries

The COVID-19 restrictions have impacted people's lifestyles in all spheres (social, psychological, political, economic, and others). This study explored which factors affected the level of anxiety during the time of the first wave of COVID-19 and subsequent quarantine in a substantial proportion of 23 countries, included in this study. The data was collected from May to August 2020 (5 June 2020). The sample included 15,375 participants from 23 countries: (seven from Europe: Belarus, Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Italy, Romania, Russia; 11 from West, South and Southeast Asia: Armenia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Malaysia, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Turkey; two African: Nigeria and Tanzania; and three from North, South, and Central America: Brazil, Canada, United States). Level of anxiety was measured by means of the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7) and the 20-item first part of The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI)-State Anxiety Inventory (SAI). Respondents were also asked about their personal experiences with COVID-19, attitudes toward measures introduced by governments, changes in attitudes toward migrants during a pandemic, family income, isolation conditions, etc. The factor analysis revealed that four factors explained 45.08% of variance in increase of anxiety, and these components were interpreted as follows: (1) personal awareness of the threat of COVID-19, (2) personal reaction toward officially undertaken measures and attitudes to foreigners, (3) personal trust in official sources, (4) personal experience with COVID-19. Three out of four factors demonstrated strong associations with both scales of anxiety: high level of anxiety was significantly correlated with high level of personal awareness of the threat of COVID-19, low level of personal reaction toward officially undertaken measures and attitudes to foreigners, and high level of presence of personal experience with COVID-19. Our study revealed significant main effects of sex, country, and all four factors on the level of anxiety. It was demonstrated that countries with higher levels of anxiety assessed the real danger of a pandemic as higher, and had more personal experience with COVID-19. Respondents who trusted the government demonstrated lower levels of anxiety. Finally, foreigners were perceived as the cause of epidemic spread.

Beyond Mere Surviving: The role of host country support and gratitude in thriving during the pandemic

While the ensuing COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered individuals' lives worldwide, it has been perhaps especially disruptive to the lives of sojourners as many have been unable to return home and are absent from their families, a familiar culture, and normal social support systems. While it is important to ask how such individuals can successfully survive in such a crisis, we were interested in extending our knowledge and understanding by asking "how can such individuals move beyond mere surviving to a state of thriving?" In answering this question, we utilized a positive psychology framework to develop a theoretical model wherein we expected higher/lower levels of perceived social support from host country people (i.e., host country support) to result in higher/lower levels of perceived gratitude, which would then result in higher/lower levels of thriving, and ethnocentrism moderated this indirect effect. To test our model, we utilized a sample of sojourners who responded to a survey measuring ethnocentrism (February 2020). We then administered daily surveys measuring perceived host country support, gratitude, and thriving over a nine-day period during the COVID-19 crisis (March 26-April 3, 2020). Results supported the indirect effect of host country support on thriving via gratitude. Further, we found that sojourners with lower levels of ethnocentrism exhibited stronger host country support- gratitude link, hence stronger indirect effect of host country support on thriving via gratitude. We close by offering implications for the existing literature, future research, and organizational practices.

Assessing the Role of Urban Green Areas for Students' Quality of Life during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing measures have limited outdoor activities for many people, including university students who live inside the campus and far from their families. We investigated if and how the fear of COVID-19 had impacted visiting green areas and consequently the quality of life.

Methods

The assessments were taken through a questionnaire-based survey of the university students living inside the campus in two universities (Konkuk and Sejong universities) in Seoul, South Korea in 2021 (n=255). Measuring three variables, the participants were asked to self-estimate their fear of COVID-19 and quality of life during the pandemic, and the time and frequency of the park visit. Structural equation modeling (SEM) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were conducted to explore the potential relationship between the three main observed variables.

Results

In the case of the campus students, visiting the green area cannot play a mediating impact on the effect of the COVID-19 fear and quality of life. Likewise, the data did not support the effect of COVID-19 fear on the quality of life for this group of students, however, significant correlations were found between the COVID-19fear and visiting green spaces (P<0.05) (positive effect on visiting, and negative effect on the time of visit).

Conclusion

Students perceived not a considerable improvement in their quality of life after visiting green areas. It might be due to the fear of staying outdoor for a long time (frequency) during the pandemic, and students' lifestyles. However, the quality of life for the students is likely to be influenced by other factors, rather than the fear of COVID-19.

Strengths, Weaknesses, Threats, and Opportunities a Pediatric Home Care Program in Covid 19 Virus Pandemic: A Qualitative Study

Covid 19 has made a huge difference in all aspects of life, especially in care and treatment. Hospitalization is limited because of infected family members and fear of getting Covid 19 has limited. The purpose of this study is to analyze the existing conditions based on the SWOT analysis for the home care program for children in Coronavirus crisis. This study is a qualitative study with a conventional content analysis approach. Participants were 18 nurses, physicians, and faculty members, selected based on their willingness to participate in the study and through purposeful sampling. Two specialized panels and 10 presence and in-presence interview sessions were held to collect data. Then, the data were analyzed using SWOT analysis. Four main categories were emerged of the study including: (a) need for a legal protocol, (b) mutual fear of Covid-19, (c) self-responsibility in Corona, and (d) team working approach in the program development. In addition, solutions based on the SWOT analytical were suggested. The results of the study showed that it is necessary to develop a formal protocol, along with self-responsibility, and a program based on the needs of the community and the Covid crisis incorporating the team opinion.

Demographic Influences on Perceived Stressors of Construction Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Construction work is one of the most stressful occupations in the world, and the COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated this reality. This research conducted a detailed investigation on the perceived stressors of different demographic groups among construction workers. Empirical data were collected using a structured questionnaire in the Chinese construction industry. The empirical data were processed using both an independent sample t-test and an Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The findings indicated that male workers reported greater workloads than did females. Married workers experienced more pandemic fear and job insecurity, and they were more sensitive to the poor working environment. Highly-educated workers were inclined to be more satisfied with organizational pandemic responses, and had lower job insecurity and role ambiguity, but they experienced heavier workloads. In addition, the differences in work experience and age were statistically significant with regards to job insecurity. This research contributes to the body of knowledge by giving a comprehensive understanding of demographic influences on perceived stressors among construction workers. It also provides valuable insights to identify sensitive demographic groups and promote their health and wellbeing during and after the pandemic.

When fear about health hurts performance: COVID-19 and its impact on employee’s work

This study utilized terror management and conservation of resources theory to fulfill its aim of investigating the effects of fear of contamination of COVID-19 on performance of employees in the banking sector of Pakistan. A survey was conducted to collect data in two waves from 206 bank employees in Punjab region. SPSS was used for data analysis. The results demonstrated that such fear leads to emotional exhaustion which in turn negatively affects employee’s work performance. However, the perceptions of better precautionary measures taken by the organization against the spread of the disease moderated the said relationship and weakened the strength of fear on performance through emotional exhaustion. Amid the widespread fear, panic and detrimental effects of COVID-19 on organizations and economies of the worlds, this research has implications for policy makers by showing the importance of organizational measures taken and displayed to employees in decreasing the negative effects of extensive fear and uncertainty prevailing due to the pandemic.

Innovation in times of pandemic: The moderating effect of knowledge sharing on the relationship between COVID‐19‐induced job stress and employee innovation

The goal of this study is to examine knowledge sharing as a boundary condition under which employee innovation can be enhanced in response to the job stress induced by the COVID‐19 pandemic. We argue that when stressed employees share knowledge, they can expand their knowledge base and thereby enhance their innovative potential. Consistent with our hypothesis, multiple regression analysis results based on a sample of 61 R&D employees of UK and US technology‐based firms show that knowledge sharing moderated the relationship between COVID‐19‐induced job stress and employee innovation, such that the relationship was negative when knowledge sharing was lower but became positive when knowledge sharing was higher. These findings highlight the importance of investing in knowledge‐based resources to promote innovation behavior at work during a pandemic.

Prevalence and its predictors of intimate partner violence against pregnant women amid COVID-19 pandemic in Southwest Ethiopia, 2021: A cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

Preventive measures like staying-at-home and social distancing are among the top strategies on the list to avert the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 and its consequences. However, this strategy brings off another shadow pandemic of intimate partner violence against women, and no study has been done to assess the magnitude of intimate partner violence against pregnant women during the pandemic in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study was aimed to determine the prevalence of intimate partner violence and its predictors in Southwest Ethiopia amid the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

METHODS

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted, from 15 June 2021 to 15 August 2021, on a total of 590 pregnant women recruited by systematic random sampling techniques. Pretested structured questionnaires were used to collect data, and the data were entered using EpiData version 3.1 and analyzed by SPSS version 24. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of intimate partner violence. Finally, statistical significance was declared at a p-value <0.05.

RESULTS

The prevalence of intimate partner violence was 39.2%. Of this, 29.8%, 26.8%, and 22.2% of the pregnant women had experienced physical, sexual, and emotional intimate partner violence, respectively. Being illiterate (adjusted odds ratio = 2.36, 95% confidence interval: 1.33-4.19), having illiterate husbands (adjusted odds ratio = 4.79, 95% confidence interval: 2.69-8.55), household decisions made by the husband alone (adjusted odds ratio = 4.91, 95% confidence interval: 3.74-9.33), and pandemic-induced economic downturns (adjusted odds ratio = 9.03, 95% confidence interval: 5.18-15.98) were the predictors that were significantly associated with intimate partner violence.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of intimate partner violence against pregnant women during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has been found to be high in the study area. Thus, more efforts should be tried to integrating intimate partner violence screening in maternal and child healthcare services, and early identification of high-risk individuals, and continuous community-based awareness creation activities are recommended.

COVID-19 and delayed antenatal care impaired pregnant women's quality of life and psychological well-being: What supports should be provided? Evidence from Vietnam

BACKGROUND

This study explored the associations between different structural and functional supports with the quality of life (QOL) and mental well-being of pregnant women whose antenatal care was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Vietnam.

METHODS

A multi-center cross-sectional study was performed on 868 pregnant women. The pregnant women's quality of life questionnaire (QOL-GRAV), the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), and the Perinatal Infant Care Social Support (PICSS) instruments were employed. The satisfaction with care from different sources was measured. Multivariate Tobit Regression models were used.

RESULTS

Seventy pregnant women (8.1%) reported that their antenatal care was influenced by the COVID-19. In this group, a higher level of satisfaction with the care of parents-in-law and a higher score of emotional support were associated with a better "Physical and Emotional changes" domain, while a higher level of appraisal support was related to poorer "Physical and Emotional changes" domain. A higher level of satisfaction with relatives' care and a higher score of emotional support were correlated with a better "Life Satisfaction" domain. EPDS score was negatively correlated with satisfaction with parents-in-law care and appraisal support.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study highlighted that intervention programs to improve the QOL and psychological well-being of pregnant women in epidemics such as COVID-19 or other diseases in the future should involve other family members such as parents-in-law and relatives as sources of support.

LIMITATIONS

The cross-sectional design was unable to draw causal relationships. Recall bias might occur. The convenient sampling method might limit the generalizability of findings.

'Dirty foreigners' are to blame for COVID-19: impacts of COVID stress syndrome on quality of life and gratitude among Singaporean adults

The outbreak of COVID-19 has caused widespread emotional distress. The current study sought to ascertain the impact of COVID stress syndrome on quality of life and gratitude. The COVID-19 Stress Scale, COVID-19 Quality of Life Scale, and Gratitude Resentment and Appreciation Scale were administered to 199 Singaporeans. Data were collected online using convenience sampling between December 2020 and March 2021. Pearson correlations and hierarchical regression analyses were used to test the research hypotheses. The results showed that fear of spreading SARSCoV2 by foreigners was the most stressful fear among Singaporeans (M = 2.59), while traumatic stress by COVID-19 was the least stressful fear (M = 0.16). COVID stress syndrome was positively correlated with negative quality of life (r ranged from .25 to .66) and negatively correlated with gratitude (r ranged from -.29 to -.14). Xenophobia was also found to be the most influential factor in reducing quality of life (β = .52) and gratitude (β = -.37) during the pandemic. Study findings demonstrate how COVID-19 increases Singaporeans' xenophobic attitudes towards foreigners, making them more vulnerable to the pandemic.

Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) of SARS-CoV-2: Mutation, infectivity, transmission, and vaccine resistance

The appearance of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variant Omicron (B.1.1.529) has caused panic responses around the world because of its high transmission rate and number of mutations. This review summarizes the highly mutated regions, the essential infectivity, transmission, vaccine breakthrough and antibody resistance of the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2. The Omicron is highly transmissible and is spreading faster than any previous variant, but may cause less severe symptoms than previous variants. The Omicron is able to escape the immune system's defenses and coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines are less effective against the Omicron variant. Early careful preventive steps including vaccination will always be key for the suppression of the Omicron variant.

Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) of SARS-CoV-2: Mutation, infectivity, transmission, and vaccine resistance

The appearance of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variant Omicron (B.1.1.529) has caused panic responses around the world because of its high transmission rate and number of mutations. This review summarizes the highly mutated regions, the essential infectivity, transmission, vaccine breakthrough and antibody resistance of the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2. The Omicron is highly transmissible and is spreading faster than any previous variant, but may cause less severe symptoms than previous variants. The Omicron is able to escape the immune system's defenses and coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines are less effective against the Omicron variant. Early careful preventive steps including vaccination will always be key for the suppression of the Omicron variant.

Fear and anxiety in girls aged 7 to 11 years old and related factors during the coronavirus pandemic

Children are one of the most vulnerable groups in crises. The psychological consequences of COVID-19 in children must be considered. This study aimed to assess the fear and anxiety of COVID-19 in primary school girls. It is a descriptive correlational study to investigate schoolgirls' fear and anxiety of covid-19 in southeastern Iran. Data were collected using the fear of coronavirus questionnaire and the Corona Disease Anxiety Scale. The mean score of fear and anxiety of corona disease was 11.49 ± 6.59 and 17.67 ± 10.87, respectively. The bivariate analysis showed a significant association between fear and anxiety of corona disease, a single child (p = .025 and p = .006), and a mother's level of education (p = .01). In other words, girls who were single child had a significantly higher level of fear and anxiety than other girls and the girls whose mothers had diploma had a higher level of fear and anxiety than girls whose mothers had Ph.D. Since fear and anxiety can be affected by factors such as culture, education level, and birth rate, it is recommended that this study be performed in other communities as well.