1
|
Singh S, Herng LC, Iderus NHM, Ghazali SM, Ahmad LCRQ, Ghazali NM, Nadzri MNM, Anuar A, Kamarudin MK, Cheng LM, Tee KK, Lin CZ, Gill BS, Ahmad NARB. Utilizing disease transmission and response capacities to optimize covid-19 control in Malaysia. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1422. [PMID: 38807095 PMCID: PMC11134902 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18890-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Public Health Social Measures (PHSM) such as movement restriction movement needed to be adjusted accordingly during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure low disease transmission alongside adequate health system capacities based on the COVID-19 situational matrix proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO). This paper aims to develop a mechanism to determine the COVID-19 situational matrix to adjust movement restriction intensity for the control of COVID-19 in Malaysia. METHODS Several epidemiological indicators were selected based on the WHO PHSM interim guidance report and validated individually and in several combinations to estimate the community transmission level (CT) and health system response capacity (RC) variables. Correlation analysis between CT and RC with COVID-19 cases was performed to determine the most appropriate CT and RC variables. Subsequently, the CT and RC variables were combined to form a composite COVID-19 situational matrix (SL). The SL matrix was validated using correlation analysis with COVID-19 case trends. Subsequently, an automated web-based system that generated daily CT, RC, and SL was developed. RESULTS CT and RC variables were estimated using case incidence and hospitalization rate; Hospital bed capacity and COVID-19 ICU occupancy respectively. The estimated CT and RC were strongly correlated [ρ = 0.806 (95% CI 0.752, 0.848); and ρ = 0.814 (95% CI 0.778, 0.839), p < 0.001] with the COVID-19 cases. The estimated SL was strongly correlated with COVID-19 cases (ρ = 0.845, p < 0.001) and responded well to the various COVID-19 case trends during the pandemic. SL changes occurred earlier during the increase of cases but slower during the decrease, indicating a conservative response. The automated web-based system developed produced daily real-time CT, RC, and SL for the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSIONS The indicators selected and combinations formed were able to generate validated daily CT and RC levels for Malaysia. Subsequently, the CT and RC levels were able to provide accurate and sensitive information for the estimation of SL which provided valuable evidence on the progression of the pandemic and movement restriction adjustment for the control of Malaysia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarbhan Singh
- Institute for Medical Research (IMR), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, No.1, Jalan Setia MurniSetia Alam, U13/52, Seksyen, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Lai Chee Herng
- Institute for Medical Research (IMR), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, No.1, Jalan Setia MurniSetia Alam, U13/52, Seksyen, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nuur Hafizah Md Iderus
- Institute for Medical Research (IMR), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, No.1, Jalan Setia MurniSetia Alam, U13/52, Seksyen, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Sumarni Mohd Ghazali
- Institute for Medical Research (IMR), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, No.1, Jalan Setia MurniSetia Alam, U13/52, Seksyen, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Lonny Chen Rong Qi Ahmad
- Institute for Medical Research (IMR), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, No.1, Jalan Setia MurniSetia Alam, U13/52, Seksyen, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nur'ain Mohd Ghazali
- Institute for Medical Research (IMR), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, No.1, Jalan Setia MurniSetia Alam, U13/52, Seksyen, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Nadzmi Md Nadzri
- Institute for Medical Research (IMR), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, No.1, Jalan Setia MurniSetia Alam, U13/52, Seksyen, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Asrul Anuar
- Institute for Medical Research (IMR), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, No.1, Jalan Setia MurniSetia Alam, U13/52, Seksyen, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Kamarulariffin Kamarudin
- Institute for Medical Research (IMR), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, No.1, Jalan Setia MurniSetia Alam, U13/52, Seksyen, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Lim Mei Cheng
- Institute for Medical Research (IMR), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, No.1, Jalan Setia MurniSetia Alam, U13/52, Seksyen, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Kok Keng Tee
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chong Zhuo Lin
- Institute for Public Health (IPH), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, Setia Alam, 40170, Malaysia
| | - Balvinder Singh Gill
- Institute for Medical Research (IMR), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, No.1, Jalan Setia MurniSetia Alam, U13/52, Seksyen, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nur Ar Rabiah Binti Ahmad
- Institute for Medical Research (IMR), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, No.1, Jalan Setia MurniSetia Alam, U13/52, Seksyen, Selangor, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Rinaldi I, Yulianti M, Yunihastuti E, Rajabto W, Irawan C, Sukrisman L, Rachman A, Mulansari NA, Lubis AM, Prasetyawaty F, Cahyanur R, Priantono D, Ahani AR, Muthalib A, Sudoyo A, Atmakusuma TD, Reksodiputro AH, Djoerban Z, Tambunan K, Winston K, Shufiyani YM, Wiyono L, Pratama S, Edina BC. Factors Associated with All-Cause 30-Day Mortality in Indonesian Inpatient COVID-19 Patients at Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2998. [PMID: 38792539 PMCID: PMC11122025 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13102998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Indonesia, as a developing country, has limited data on the factors associated with 30-day mortality in COVID-19 patients in Indonesia. As a matter of fact, study analyzing factors associated with 30-day mortality of COVID-19 infection in Indonesia has never been conducted. This study aims to fill this gap in the literature by conducting a large-scale analysis of factors associated with 30-day mortality in COVID-19 patients in Indonesia. Method: This study employed a single-center retrospective cohort observational design, and was conducted at Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital between the years 2022 and 2023. Sampling was conducted using the consecutive sampling method. The study included patients aged 18 years and above who had been confirmed to have COVID-19 infection. Survival analysis was conducted using Kaplan-Meier and multivariate Cox regression analysis. Result: Our study included a total of 644 patients, with 120 patients (18.6%) expiring within 30 days. In the multivariate analysis using the backward Wald method, severe COVID-19 (HR: 7.024; 95% CI: 3.971-12.744; p value: <0.0001), moderate COVID-19 infection (HR: 1.660; 95% CI: 1.048-2.629; p value: 0.031), liver cirrhosis (HR: 3.422; 95% CI: 1.208-9.691; p value: 0.021), female sex (HR: 1.738; 95% CI: 1.187-2.545; p value: 0.004), old age (HR: 2.139; 95% CI: 1.279-3.577; p value: 0.004), high leukocyte (HR: 11.502; 95% CI: 1.523-86.874; p value: 0.018), high NLR (HR: 1.720; 95% CI: 1.049-2.819; p value: 0.032), high CRP (HR: 1.906; 95% CI: 1.092-3.329; p value: 0.023), high procalcitonin (HR: 3.281; 95% CI: 1.780-6.049; p value: 0.001), and high creatinine (HR: 1.863; 95% CI: 1.240-2.800; p value: 0.003) were associated with 30-day mortality from COVID-19 infection. Subgroup analysis excluding cancer patients showed that age, D-Dimer, CRP, and PCT were associated with 30-day mortality in COVID-19 patients, while steroid therapy is protective. Conclusions: This study finds that COVID-19 severity, liver cirrhosis, sex, age, leukocyte, NLR, CRP, creatinine, and procalcitonin were associated with COVID-19 mortality within 30 days. These findings underscore the multifactorial nature of COVID-19 infection mortality. It is important, therefore, that patients which exhibit these factors should be treated more aggressively to prevent mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ikhwan Rinaldi
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (W.R.); (C.I.); (L.S.); (A.R.); (A.M.L.); (F.P.); (R.C.); (D.P.); (A.R.A.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (T.D.A.); (A.H.R.); (Z.D.); (K.T.)
| | - Mira Yulianti
- Respirology and Critical Care, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia;
| | - Evy Yunihastuti
- Allergy and Immunology, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia;
| | - Wulyo Rajabto
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (W.R.); (C.I.); (L.S.); (A.R.); (A.M.L.); (F.P.); (R.C.); (D.P.); (A.R.A.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (T.D.A.); (A.H.R.); (Z.D.); (K.T.)
| | - Cosphiadi Irawan
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (W.R.); (C.I.); (L.S.); (A.R.); (A.M.L.); (F.P.); (R.C.); (D.P.); (A.R.A.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (T.D.A.); (A.H.R.); (Z.D.); (K.T.)
| | - Lugyanti Sukrisman
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (W.R.); (C.I.); (L.S.); (A.R.); (A.M.L.); (F.P.); (R.C.); (D.P.); (A.R.A.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (T.D.A.); (A.H.R.); (Z.D.); (K.T.)
| | - Andhika Rachman
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (W.R.); (C.I.); (L.S.); (A.R.); (A.M.L.); (F.P.); (R.C.); (D.P.); (A.R.A.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (T.D.A.); (A.H.R.); (Z.D.); (K.T.)
| | - Nadia Ayu Mulansari
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (W.R.); (C.I.); (L.S.); (A.R.); (A.M.L.); (F.P.); (R.C.); (D.P.); (A.R.A.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (T.D.A.); (A.H.R.); (Z.D.); (K.T.)
| | - Anna Mira Lubis
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (W.R.); (C.I.); (L.S.); (A.R.); (A.M.L.); (F.P.); (R.C.); (D.P.); (A.R.A.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (T.D.A.); (A.H.R.); (Z.D.); (K.T.)
| | - Findy Prasetyawaty
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (W.R.); (C.I.); (L.S.); (A.R.); (A.M.L.); (F.P.); (R.C.); (D.P.); (A.R.A.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (T.D.A.); (A.H.R.); (Z.D.); (K.T.)
| | - Rahmat Cahyanur
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (W.R.); (C.I.); (L.S.); (A.R.); (A.M.L.); (F.P.); (R.C.); (D.P.); (A.R.A.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (T.D.A.); (A.H.R.); (Z.D.); (K.T.)
| | - Dimas Priantono
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (W.R.); (C.I.); (L.S.); (A.R.); (A.M.L.); (F.P.); (R.C.); (D.P.); (A.R.A.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (T.D.A.); (A.H.R.); (Z.D.); (K.T.)
| | - Ardhi Rahman Ahani
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (W.R.); (C.I.); (L.S.); (A.R.); (A.M.L.); (F.P.); (R.C.); (D.P.); (A.R.A.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (T.D.A.); (A.H.R.); (Z.D.); (K.T.)
| | - Abdul Muthalib
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (W.R.); (C.I.); (L.S.); (A.R.); (A.M.L.); (F.P.); (R.C.); (D.P.); (A.R.A.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (T.D.A.); (A.H.R.); (Z.D.); (K.T.)
| | - Aru Sudoyo
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (W.R.); (C.I.); (L.S.); (A.R.); (A.M.L.); (F.P.); (R.C.); (D.P.); (A.R.A.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (T.D.A.); (A.H.R.); (Z.D.); (K.T.)
| | - Tubagus Djumhana Atmakusuma
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (W.R.); (C.I.); (L.S.); (A.R.); (A.M.L.); (F.P.); (R.C.); (D.P.); (A.R.A.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (T.D.A.); (A.H.R.); (Z.D.); (K.T.)
| | - Arry Harryanto Reksodiputro
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (W.R.); (C.I.); (L.S.); (A.R.); (A.M.L.); (F.P.); (R.C.); (D.P.); (A.R.A.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (T.D.A.); (A.H.R.); (Z.D.); (K.T.)
| | - Zubairi Djoerban
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (W.R.); (C.I.); (L.S.); (A.R.); (A.M.L.); (F.P.); (R.C.); (D.P.); (A.R.A.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (T.D.A.); (A.H.R.); (Z.D.); (K.T.)
| | - Karmel Tambunan
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine Department, Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (W.R.); (C.I.); (L.S.); (A.R.); (A.M.L.); (F.P.); (R.C.); (D.P.); (A.R.A.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (T.D.A.); (A.H.R.); (Z.D.); (K.T.)
| | - Kevin Winston
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (K.W.); (Y.M.S.); (L.W.); (S.P.); (B.C.E.)
| | - Yuli Maulidiya Shufiyani
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (K.W.); (Y.M.S.); (L.W.); (S.P.); (B.C.E.)
| | - Lowilius Wiyono
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (K.W.); (Y.M.S.); (L.W.); (S.P.); (B.C.E.)
| | - Samuel Pratama
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (K.W.); (Y.M.S.); (L.W.); (S.P.); (B.C.E.)
| | - Brenda Cristie Edina
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia; (K.W.); (Y.M.S.); (L.W.); (S.P.); (B.C.E.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ferrante P. The First Two Years of COVID-19 Hospitalization Characteristics and Costs: Results from the National Discharge Registry. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:958. [PMID: 38786370 PMCID: PMC11121639 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12100958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has emerged as the primary global health challenge of the new millennium. Understanding its impact on health systems and learning from these experiences are crucial for improving system resilience against future health crises. This paper examines hospitalizations related to COVID-19 in Italy from 2020 to 2021, with a specific focus on the costs associated with these admissions. DESIGN AND METHODS This is a retrospective, population-based study of Italian hospitalizations of patients diagnosed with COVID-19 during the 2020-2021 period, using data extracted from the National Hospital Discharge Registry. The outcome variables considered include hospital admissions, costs, and length of stay. RESULTS In Italy, hospitalizations for COVID-19 totaled 357,354 in 2020 and 399,043 in 2021, with the transfer rate being three times higher than that of other patients. Hospitalizations were predominantly concentrated in the northern regions, especially during the first year. Mortality rates increased with age, while hospitalization rates peaked in the youngest and oldest age groups. The financial impact of COVID-19 hospitalizations was approximately €3.1 billion in 2020 and €3.6 billion in 2021. The cost per admission was around €8000 for standard care and €24,000 for intensive therapy in both years. CONCLUSION Conducting a cost-benefit analysis of implementing a protective pad around the entire health system, which leverages networks of family doctors and nurses connected in real-time, could be an important step in strengthening health system resilience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pierpaolo Ferrante
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Italian National Workers' Compensation Authority (INAIL), Via Stefano Gradi 55, 00143 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Sánchez A, Galan-Caamal RJ, Ortiz-Hernández MC, Sánchez-Sánchez J, Camacho-Cruz KA, Anguas-Cabrera D. Ammonium depletion associated with the COVID-19 pandemic in the Mexican Caribbean. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 202:116347. [PMID: 38608428 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
The Mexican Caribbean contributes significantly to Mexico's gross national product. The number of tourists declined from 16.7 million in 2019 to 8.8 million in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with a rapid recovery of 13.5 million in 2021. Wastewater discharge is the primary contamination source associated with the tourism sector's demand for goods and services. Water quality could improve due to fewer tourists arriving during the COVID-19 sanitary emergency. This study aimed to quantify ammonium concentrations at eleven locations to evaluate water quality during the sanitary restriction due to the pandemic in the Mexican Caribbean. The ammonium concentrations were 85 % (Nov-2019), 89 % (Feb-2020), and 86 % (Feb-2021) higher than in Nov-2020, where six of the eleven sampled stations were below the detection limit (0.15 μM). Lower ammonium concentrations coincide with the sanitary restriction period and a decrease in affluent tourists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Sánchez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, La Paz, B.C.S., Mexico.
| | - R J Galan-Caamal
- El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Chetumal, Chetumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico
| | | | - J Sánchez-Sánchez
- El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Chetumal, Chetumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico
| | - K A Camacho-Cruz
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, La Paz, B.C.S., Mexico; Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo, Mexico
| | - D Anguas-Cabrera
- El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Chetumal, Chetumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Hamasha MM, Alomari AJ, Bani-Irshid AH. The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis on the Jordanian higher education system. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299531. [PMID: 38640134 PMCID: PMC11029628 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of COVID-19 pandemic-induced E-learning in Jordanian higher education. Through a quantitative survey, the study analyzes the independent variables of system use and user satisfaction, finding that information quality and service quality significantly affect these variables and that user satisfaction notably impacts E-learning. System usage moderates these effects. This research comprehensively analyzes the effects of the COVID-19 epidemic on Jordanian higher education, focusing on E-learning. It shows how information, system, and service quality affect system use and user satisfaction. The study also emphasizes these aspects' importance in E-learning platform effectiveness. The study offers actionable insights and recommendations to help Jordan establish more resilient and effective educational policies and practices that can adjust to higher education shocks. The study recommends establishing a specialized department to modify student intention to use E-learning systems, not only during the pandemic crisis but also after-ward, to improve familiarity with E-learning tools. This study provides insights into the pandemic's impact on Jordan's higher education system and suggests future approaches to enhance E-learning platforms. It contributes to the development of effective E-learning systems that can improve higher education standards by pinpointing the key effects of the pandemic on the independent variables and offering workable solutions. The study emphasizes the importance of information and service quality in improving user satisfaction and system usage in E-learning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad M. Hamasha
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Program of Desaster and Crises Management, Faculty of Engineering, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Areen Jihad Alomari
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Program of Desaster and Crises Management, Faculty of Engineering, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Ala H. Bani-Irshid
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Program of Desaster and Crises Management, Faculty of Engineering, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Shakinah S, Aini MH, Sekartini R, Soedjatmiko, Medise BE, Gunardi H, Yuniar I, Indawati W, Koesnoe S, Harimurti K, Maria S, Wirahmadi A, Sari RM, Setyaningsih L, Surachman F. Immunogenicity Assessment of the SARS-CoV-2 Protein Subunit Recombinant Vaccine (CoV2-IB 0322) in a Substudy of a Phase 3 Trial in Indonesia. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:371. [PMID: 38675753 PMCID: PMC11053672 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12040371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 is one of the most devastating pandemics of the 21st century. Vaccination is one of the most effective prevention methods in combating COVID-19, and one type of vaccine being developed was the protein subunit recombinant vaccine. We evaluated the efficacy of the CoV2-IB 0322 vaccine in Depok, Indonesia. METHODS This study aimed to assess the humoral and cellular immune response of the CoV2-IB 0322 vaccine compared to an active control vaccine (COVOVAX™ Vaccine). A total of 120 subjects were enrolled and randomized into two groups, with 60 subjects in each group. Participants received either two doses of the CoV2-IB 0322 vaccine or two doses of the control vaccine with a 28-day interval between doses. Safety assessments were conducted through onsite monitoring and participant-reported adverse events. Immunogenicity was evaluated by measuring IgG anti-RBD SARS-CoV-2 and IgG-neutralizing antibodies. Cellular immunity was assessed by specific T-cell responses. Whole blood samples were collected at baseline, 14 days, 6 months, and 12 months after the second dose for cellular immunity evaluation. RESULTS Both vaccines showed high seropositive rates, with neutralizing antibody and IgG titers peaking 14 days after the second dose and declining by 12 months. The seroconversion rate of anti-S IgG was 100% in both groups, but the rate of neutralizing antibody seroconversion was lower in the CoV2-IB 0322 vaccine group at 14 days after the second dose (p = 0.004). The CoV2-IB 0322 vaccine showed higher IgG GMT levels 6 and 12 months after the second dose (p < 0.001 and p = 0.01). T-cell responses, evaluated by IFN-γ, IL-2, and IL-4 production by CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells, showed similar results without significant differences between both groups, except for %IL-2/CD4+ cells 6 months after the second dose (p = 0.038). CONCLUSION Both vaccines showed comparable B- and T-cell immunological response that diminish over time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sharifah Shakinah
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General National Hospital, Jalan Diponegoro No 71, Jakarta 10340, Indonesia; (S.S.); (S.M.)
| | - Muhammad Hafiz Aini
- Department of Internal Medicine, Universitas Indonesia Hospital, Jl. Prof. DR. Bahder Djohan, Depok 16424, Indonesia
| | - Rini Sekartini
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General National Hospital, Jalan Diponegoro No 71, Jakarta 10340, Indonesia; (R.S.); (S.); (W.I.)
| | - Soedjatmiko
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General National Hospital, Jalan Diponegoro No 71, Jakarta 10340, Indonesia; (R.S.); (S.); (W.I.)
| | - Bernie Endyarni Medise
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General National Hospital, Jalan Diponegoro No 71, Jakarta 10340, Indonesia; (R.S.); (S.); (W.I.)
| | - Hartono Gunardi
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General National Hospital, Jalan Diponegoro No 71, Jakarta 10340, Indonesia; (R.S.); (S.); (W.I.)
| | - Irene Yuniar
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General National Hospital, Jalan Diponegoro No 71, Jakarta 10340, Indonesia; (R.S.); (S.); (W.I.)
| | - Wahyuni Indawati
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General National Hospital, Jalan Diponegoro No 71, Jakarta 10340, Indonesia; (R.S.); (S.); (W.I.)
| | - Sukamto Koesnoe
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General National Hospital, Jalan Diponegoro No 71, Jakarta 10340, Indonesia; (S.S.); (S.M.)
| | - Kuntjoro Harimurti
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General National Hospital, Jalan Diponegoro No 71, Jakarta 10340, Indonesia; (S.S.); (S.M.)
| | - Suzy Maria
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General National Hospital, Jalan Diponegoro No 71, Jakarta 10340, Indonesia; (S.S.); (S.M.)
| | - Angga Wirahmadi
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General National Hospital, Jalan Diponegoro No 71, Jakarta 10340, Indonesia; (R.S.); (S.); (W.I.)
| | - Rini Mulia Sari
- PT Bio Farma, Jalan Pasteur No. 28, Bandung 40161, Indonesia (L.S.); (F.S.)
| | - Lilis Setyaningsih
- PT Bio Farma, Jalan Pasteur No. 28, Bandung 40161, Indonesia (L.S.); (F.S.)
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Duncan JP, Geng S, Lindsay C, Ferguson T, Mills K, Lopez-Lopez JP, He H, Lanza P, Williams M, Tutse-Tonwe V, Reyes M, Campo A, Marshall A, Lopez-Jaramillo P, Tulloch-Reid MK. Differences in COVID-19 Vaccination and Experiences among Patients with Hypertension in Colombia and Jamaica during the COVID-19 Pandemic. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.03.25.24304855. [PMID: 38585840 PMCID: PMC10996767 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.25.24304855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Background COVID-19 vaccination and shielding targeted hypertensive patients in low and middle income countries. We describe the COVID-19 experiences of hypertensive patients in Colombia and Jamaica and discuss factors associated with vaccine acceptance. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2021 and February 2022 in 4 randomly selected primary care clinics in Colombia and 10 primary care clinics in Jamaica. Participants in Colombia were randomly selected from an electronic medical record. In Jamaica consecutive participants were selected on clinic days for non-communicable diseases. Interviewer-administered questionnaires were conducted by telephone. Results 576 participants were recruited (50% Jamaica; 68.5% female). Jamaica's participants were younger (36% vs 23% <60 years) and had a lower proportion of persons with "more than high school" education (17.2% vs 30.3%, p=0.011). Colombia's participants more commonly tested positive for COVID-19 (24.2% vs 6.3%, p<0.001), had a family member or close friend test positive for COVID-19 (54.5% vs, 21.6%; p<0.001), experienced loss of a family member or friend due to COVID-19 (21.5% vs 7.8%, p<0.001) and had vaccination against COVID-19 (90.6% vs 46.7%, p<0.001). Fear of COVID-19 (AOR 2.71, 95% CI 1.20-6.13) and residence in Colombia (AOR 5.88 (95% CI 2.38-14.56) were associated with COVID-19 vaccination. Disruption in health services affecting prescription of medication or access to doctors was low (<10%) for both countries. Conclusion Health services disruption was low but COVID-19 experiences such as fear of COVID-19 and vaccine acceptance differed significantly between Colombia and Jamaica. Addressing reasons for these differences are important for future pandemic responses.
Collapse
|
8
|
Zhao X, Wu S, Yan B, Liu B. New evidence on the real role of digital economy in influencing public health efficiency. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7190. [PMID: 38531934 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57788-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the rapid advancement of digital technology has supported the growth of the digital economy. The transformation towards digitization in the public health sector serves as a key indicator of this economic shift. Understanding how the digital economy continuously improves the efficiency of public health services and its various pathways of influence has become increasingly important. It is essential to clarify the impact mechanism of the digital economy on public health services to optimize health expenditures and advance digital economic construction. This study investigates the impact of digital economic development on the efficiency of public health services from a novel perspective, considering social media usage and urban-rural healthcare disparities while constructing a comprehensive index of digital economic development. The findings indicate that the digital economy reduces the efficiency of public health services primarily through two transmission mechanisms: the promotion of social media usage and the widening urban-rural healthcare gap. Moreover, these impacts and transmission pathways exhibit spatial heterogeneity. This study unveils the intrinsic connection and mechanisms of interaction between digital economic development and the efficiency of public health services, providing a theoretical basis and reference for government policy formulation. However, it also prompts further considerations on achieving synergy and interaction between the digital economy and public health services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiongfei Zhao
- School of Economics and Management, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, China
| | - Shansong Wu
- School of Management Science and Engineering, Dongbei University of Finance and Economics, Dalian, 116025, China.
| | - Bin Yan
- School of Management Engineering & E-Commerce, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Baoliu Liu
- School of Economics and Management, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sandoval J, Aquino E, Piñeros-Leaño M, Domínguez J, Simonovich SD. Examining the Qualitative Experiences of Latinx Nurses During the First Wave of COVID-19. HISPANIC HEALTH CARE INTERNATIONAL 2024; 22:25-34. [PMID: 38009005 DOI: 10.1177/15404153231214726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: The world has been impacted by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic since March of 2020. Latinx nurses have been some of the most underrepresented in being studied during this time and have been greatly affected by it. To the best of our knowledge, there are no published studies that focus on the qualitative experiences of Latinx nurses during the first wave of the pandemic. Methods: Data analysis included thematic analysis to identify main themes experienced by Latinx nurses. A qualitative descriptive study design was employed to conduct a parent study with 100 nurses across the United States reflecting on their experiences during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, data collected from May to September 2020. Formal coding of the interview data was conducted utilizing Dedoose cloud-based software. Results: Five main themes emerged, including (1) connection to patients' personal touch and empathy, (2) connection to Latinx nurses, (3) connection to family and friends, (4) connection to food as care, and (5) coping. Within the theme of coping, subthemes of (5.1) faith, (5.2) maladaptive behaviors, and (5.3) self-care activities emerged. Conclusion: These experiences can help shape the pathway to be better prepared for any emergency or future pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Sandoval
- School of Nursing, College of Science and Health, DePaul University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Elizabeth Aquino
- Department of Biobehavioral Nursing Science, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Del Castillo MFP, Fujimi T, Tatano H. Estimating sectoral COVID-19 economic losses in the Philippines using nighttime light and electricity consumption data. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1308301. [PMID: 38487185 PMCID: PMC10937742 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1308301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Economic loss estimation is critical for policymakers to craft policies that balance economic and health concerns during pandemic emergencies. However, this task is time-consuming and resource-intensive, posing challenges during emergencies. Method To address this, we proposed using electricity consumption (EC) and nighttime lights (NTL) datasets to estimate the total, commercial, and industrial economic losses from COVID-19 lockdowns in the Philippines. Regression models were employed to establish the relationship of GDP with EC and NTL. Then, models using basic statistics and weather data were developed to estimate the counterfactual EC and NTL, from which counterfactual GDP was derived. The difference between the actual and the counterfactual GDP from 2020 to 2021 yielded economic loss. Results This paper highlights three findings. First, the regression model results established that models based on EC (adj-R2 ≥ 0.978) were better at explaining GDP than models using NTL (adj-R2 ≥ 0.663); however, combining both EC and NTL improved the prediction (adj-R2 ≥ 0.979). Second, counterfactual EC and NTL could be estimated using models based on statistics and weather data explaining more than 81% of the pre-pandemic values. Last, the estimated total loss amounted to 2.9 trillion PhP in 2020 and 3.2 trillion PhP in 2021. More than two-thirds of the losses were in the commercial sector as it responded to both policies and the COVID-19 case surge. In contrast, the industrial sector was affected primarily by the lockdown implementation. Discussion This method allowed monitoring of economic losses resulting from long-term and large-scale hazards such as the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings can serve as empirical evidence for advocating targeted strategies that balance public health and the economy during pandemic scenarios.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Toshio Fujimi
- Tatano Lab, Department of Social Informatics, Graduate School of Informatics, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Disaster Prevention Research Institute, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Tatano
- Tatano Lab, Department of Social Informatics, Graduate School of Informatics, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Disaster Prevention Research Institute, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Juárez-Mercado KE, Gómez-Hernández MA, Salinas-Trujano J, Córdova-Bahena L, Espitia C, Pérez-Tapia SM, Medina-Franco JL, Velasco-Velázquez MA. Identification of SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease Inhibitors Using Chemical Similarity Analysis Combined with Machine Learning. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:240. [PMID: 38399455 PMCID: PMC10892746 DOI: 10.3390/ph17020240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease (Mpro) is an enzyme that cleaves viral polyproteins translated from the viral genome, which is critical for viral replication. Mpro is a target for anti-SARS-CoV-2 drug development. Herein, we performed a large-scale virtual screening by comparing multiple structural descriptors of reference molecules with reported anti-coronavirus activity against a library with >17 million compounds. Further filtering, performed by applying two machine learning algorithms, identified eighteen computational hits as anti-SARS-CoV-2 compounds with high structural diversity and drug-like properties. The activities of twelve compounds on Mpro's enzymatic activity were evaluated by fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) assays. Compound 13 (ZINC13878776) significantly inhibited SARS-CoV-2 Mpro activity and was employed as a reference for an experimentally hit expansion. The structural analogues 13a (ZINC4248385), 13b (ZNC13523222), and 13c (ZINC4248365) were tested as Mpro inhibitors, reducing the enzymatic activity of recombinant Mpro with potency as follows: 13c > 13 > 13b > 13a. Then, their anti-SARS-CoV-2 activities were evaluated in plaque reduction assays using Vero CCL81 cells. Subtoxic concentrations of compounds 13a, 13c, and 13b displayed in vitro antiviral activity with IC50 in the mid micromolar range. Compounds 13a-c could become lead compounds for the development of new Mpro inhibitors with improved activity against anti-SARS-CoV-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Milton Abraham Gómez-Hernández
- School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
| | - Juana Salinas-Trujano
- Research and Development in Biotherapeutics Unit (UDIBI), National School of Biological Sciences, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 11350, Mexico
- National Laboratory for Specialized Services of Investigation, Development and Innovation (I+D+i) for Pharma Chemicals and Biotechnological Products, LANSEIDI-FarBiotech-CONACHyT, Mexico City 11350, Mexico
| | - Luis Córdova-Bahena
- School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
- National Council of Humanities, Science and Technology (CONAHCYT), Mexico City 03940, Mexico
| | - Clara Espitia
- Immunology Department, Institute for Biomedical Research, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
| | - Sonia Mayra Pérez-Tapia
- Research and Development in Biotherapeutics Unit (UDIBI), National School of Biological Sciences, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 11350, Mexico
- National Laboratory for Specialized Services of Investigation, Development and Innovation (I+D+i) for Pharma Chemicals and Biotechnological Products, LANSEIDI-FarBiotech-CONACHyT, Mexico City 11350, Mexico
- Immunology Department, National School of Biological Sciences, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 11350, Mexico
| | - José L. Medina-Franco
- DIFACQUIM Research Group, School of Chemistry, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Islam M, Edwards B, Goddard J, Kuddus RH. Immediate Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Heart and Kidney Transplantation and the Recovery Trends in 30 Developed and Less-Developed Countries. Ann Transplant 2024; 29:e942188. [PMID: 38225813 PMCID: PMC10802079 DOI: 10.12659/aot.942188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic had multifaceted and disproportionate impacts on various countries. We investigated the decline of heart and kidney transplantation in 2020 and recovery trends in 2020, 2021, and 2022 in 30 developed and developing countries, considering COVID-19 incidence and mortality and pandemic-time economic variables. MATERIAL AND METHODS Data were obtained from reliable open databases. Nations were grouped by hierarchical cluster analysis into high-gross domestic product (GDP), mid-GDP, and low-GDP countries. Expected transplant numbers for 2020 to 2021 were estimated by the artificial neural network method using data from 2015 to 2019. Effect size and its inference were determined through the Hodges-Lemann estimate and Wilcoxon signed-rank test, respectively. The possible disproportionate effect was estimated by the Jonckheere-Tersptra test. Associations between transplantation and economic variables, COVID-19 caseload, and mortality were examined using Kendall rank correlation analysis. RESULTS All nations experienced a decline in 2020 and some real recovery in 2020 to 2022. For high-GDP countries, decline was insignificant and recovery was marginal; for mid-GDP countries, decline was significant for heart and deceased kidneys and recovery was modest; for low-GDP countries, decline was significant for heart, live kidneys, and deceased kidneys and recovery was marginal. The low-GDP countries were disproportionally negatively impacted, although the associations between the impact and economic variables, COVID-19 incidence, and COVID-19 mortality were statistically insignificant. CONCLUSIONS More inclusive studies of socioeconomic and cultural factors that affected the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in different countries can be useful for better preparedness and reducing disruption in healthcare in future global pandemics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Islam
- Department of Mathematics, Utah Valley University, Orem, UT, USA
| | - Bryson Edwards
- Department of Biology, Utah Valley University, Orem, UT, USA
| | - Jeffrey Goddard
- Department of Biology, Utah Valley University, Orem, UT, USA
| | - Ruhul H. Kuddus
- Department of Biology, Utah Valley University, Orem, UT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhou Y, Liu Y, Xue W, Li X, Yang Z, Xu Z. Factors that influence the intent to pursue a master's degree: evidence from Shandong Province, China. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1284277. [PMID: 38283203 PMCID: PMC10811022 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1284277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction In recent years, the pursuit of a master's degree has become a social phenomenon of wide concern. It is essential to understand why large number of students choose to pursue master's degree. This study aims to empirically analyze the factors that influence the intent to pursue a master's degree. Method Based on the extended theory of planned behavior, this study conducts a questionnaire survey of university students in Shandong Province, which has had the highest number of people taking the postgraduate entrance examination in China for several years. A total of 440 questionnaires were finally collected, including 417 valid questionnaires. And then ordinary least squares (OLS) regression was used to analyze the factors that influence the intent to pursue a master's degree. Results In general, the intent to pursue a master's degree is positively influenced by attitude (β = 0.161, p < 0.01) and subjective norms (β = 0.208, p < 0.01), and negatively influenced by risk perception (β = -0.084, p < 0.05). Compared with male students, female students' intent is more likely to be influenced by risk perception (β = -0.144, p < 0.05) and social factors (β = 0.140, p < 0.05). The intent of upperclass students tends to be positively influenced by perceived behavioral control (β = 0.125, p < 0.05), whereas the negative impact of risk perception (β = -0.219, p < 0.05) on the intent is significant for underclass students. The intent of students in rural areas are more sensitive to risk perception (β = -0.194, p < 0.01) than those of students in cities. In private universities, social factors (β = 0.445, p < 0.05) significantly affect the intent to pursue a master's degree. In ordinary public universities, the intent of students is more likely to be influenced by risk perception (β = -0.082, p < 0.05). Conclusion The study is helpful to strengthen the understanding of the influencing factors of the intent to pursue a master's degree. In general, the intent to pursue a master's degree is mainly influenced by attitude, subjective norms and risk perception. Moreover, the influencing factors vary among different groups (e.g., female vs. male, rural areas vs. cities). Furthermore, attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, risk perception, and social factors have greater impacts on the intent of students from low-income households than those from high-income households. This study can provide policy implications for universities to take targeted educational measures to encourage students to make a choice that suits their own development after graduation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuhong Zhou
- School of Tourism and Geography Science, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yi Liu
- School of Economics, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Wenhao Xue
- School of Economics, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xinyao Li
- School of Economics, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
- Institute of Marine Development, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhe Yang
- School of Economics, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhihua Xu
- School of Economics, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhang W, Gorelik AJ, Wang Q, Norton SA, Hershey T, Agrawal A, Bijsterbosch JD, Bogdan R. Associations between COVID-19 and putative markers of neuroinflammation: A diffusion basis spectrum imaging study. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.20.549891. [PMID: 37502886 PMCID: PMC10370178 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.20.549891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 remains a significant international public health concern. Yet, the mechanisms through which symptomatology emerges remain poorly understood. While SARS-CoV-2 infection may induce prolonged inflammation within the central nervous system, the evidence primarily stems from limited small-scale case investigations. To address this gap, our study capitalized on longitudinal UK Biobank neuroimaging data acquired prior to and following COVID-19 testing (N=416 including n=224 COVID-19 cases; Mage=58.6). Putative neuroinflammation was assessed in gray matter structures and white matter tracts using non-invasive Diffusion Basis Spectrum Imaging (DBSI), which estimates inflammation-related cellularity (DBSI-restricted fraction; DBSI-RF) and vasogenic edema (DBSI-hindered fraction; DBSI-HF).We hypothesized that COVID-19 case status would be associated with increases in DBSI markers after accounting for potential confound (age, sex, race, body mass index, smoking frequency, and data acquisition interval) and multiple testing. COVID-19 case status was not significantly associated with DBSI-RF (|β|'s<0.28, pFDR >0.05), but with greater DBSI-HF in left pre- and post-central gyri and right middle frontal gyrus (β's>0.3, all pFDR=0.03). Intriguingly, the brain areas exhibiting increased putative vasogenic edema had previously been linked to COVID-19-related functional and structural alterations, whereas brain regions displaying subtle differences in cellularity between COVID-19 cases and controls included regions within or functionally connected to the olfactory network, which has been implicated in COVID-19 psychopathology. Nevertheless, our study might not have captured acute and transitory neuroinflammatory effects linked to SARS-CoV-2 infection, possibly due to symptom resolution before the imaging scan. Future research is warranted to explore the potential time- and symptom-dependent neuroinflammatory relationship with COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Aaron J Gorelik
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Qing Wang
- Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Sara A Norton
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Tamara Hershey
- Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Arpana Agrawal
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Janine D Bijsterbosch
- Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Ryan Bogdan
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mackintosh L, Busby A, Farrington K, Hawkins J, Afuwape S, Bristow P, Silva-Gane MD, Hall N, Harris T, Hudson J, Norton S, Ormandy P, Pearce CJ, Santhakumaran S, Sharma S, Sridharan S, Steenkamp R, Slevin J, Wellsted D, Chilcot J. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on services for patients with chronic kidney disease: findings of a national survey of UK kidney centres. BMC Nephrol 2023; 24:356. [PMID: 38049710 PMCID: PMC10696738 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-023-03344-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Services for patients with kidney disease underwent radical adaptations in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We undertook an online national survey of UK kidney centres to understand the nature, range, and degree of variation in these changes and to explore factors contributing to differing practice. METHODS The survey was designed by a multidisciplinary team of kidney professionals, service users and researchers. It enquired about centre services and staffing, including psychosocial provision, and changes to these in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Links to the survey were sent to all 68 UK kidney centres and remained active from December 2021 to April 2022, and a revised version to nurses in late 2022 for additional data. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively. Content analysis on free-text responses identified common themes. RESULTS Analysable responses were received from 41 out of the 68 UK centres (60%), with partial data from an additional 7 (11%). Adaptations were system-wide and affected all aspects of service provision. Some changes were almost universal such as virtual consultations for outpatient appointments, with significant variation in others. Outpatient activity varied from fully maintained to suspended. Many centres reduced peritoneal dialysis access provision but in some this was increased. Centres considered that changes to transplant surgical services and for patients with advanced CKD approaching end-stage kidney disease had the greatest impact on patients. Few centres implemented adjustments aimed at vulnerable and underrepresented groups, including the frail elderly, people with language and communication needs, and those with mental health needs. Communication issues were attributed to rapid evolution of the pandemic, changing planning guidance and lack of resources. Staffing shortages, involving all staff groups particularly nurses, mainly due to COVID-19 infection and redeployment, were compounded by deficiencies in staffing establishments and high vacancy levels. Centres cited three main lessons influencing future service delivery, the need for service redesign, improvements in communication, and better support for staff. CONCLUSION Kidney centre responses to the pandemic involved adaptations across the whole service. Though some changes were almost universal, there was wide variation in other areas. Exploring the role of centre characteristics may help planning for potential future severe service disruptions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Mackintosh
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, AL10 9AB, UK.
| | - Amanda Busby
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Ken Farrington
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, AL10 9AB, UK
- Renal Unit, Lister Hospital, Stevenage, SG1 4AB, UK
| | - Janine Hawkins
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Sarah Afuwape
- Nephrology, Urology and Renal Transplant, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Free Hospital, Pond Street, London, NW3 2QG, UK
- Department of Renal Medicine, UCL Medical School, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | | | | | - Natalie Hall
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Tess Harris
- The Polycystic Kidney Disease Charity, 91 Royal College St, London, NW1 0SE, UK
| | - Joanna Hudson
- Health Psychology Section, Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, 5th Floor Bermondsey Wing, Guy's Campus, London Bridge, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Sam Norton
- Health Psychology Section, Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, 5th Floor Bermondsey Wing, Guy's Campus, London Bridge, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Paula Ormandy
- School of Health and Society, University of Salford, Salford, M6 6PU, UK
| | - Christina J Pearce
- Health Psychology Section, Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, 5th Floor Bermondsey Wing, Guy's Campus, London Bridge, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Shalini Santhakumaran
- The UK Kidney Association, Brandon House, Building 20a1, Southmead Road, Bristol, BS34 7RR, UK
| | - Shivani Sharma
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Sivakumar Sridharan
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, AL10 9AB, UK
- Renal Unit, Lister Hospital, Stevenage, SG1 4AB, UK
| | - Retha Steenkamp
- The UK Kidney Association, Brandon House, Building 20a1, Southmead Road, Bristol, BS34 7RR, UK
| | - Julie Slevin
- The UK Kidney Association, Brandon House, Building 20a1, Southmead Road, Bristol, BS34 7RR, UK
| | - David Wellsted
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Joseph Chilcot
- Health Psychology Section, Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, 5th Floor Bermondsey Wing, Guy's Campus, London Bridge, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Carvalho-Barbosa N, Zeidler JD, Savio LEB, Coutinho-Silva R. Purinergic signaling in the battlefield of viral infections. Purinergic Signal 2023:10.1007/s11302-023-09981-8. [PMID: 38038801 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-023-09981-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Purinergic signaling has been associated with immune defenses against pathogens such as bacteria, protozoa, fungi, and viruses, acting as a sentinel system that signals to the cells when a threat is present. This review focuses on the roles of purinergic signaling and its therapeutic potential for viral infections. In this context, the purinergic system may play potent antiviral roles by boosting interferon signaling. In other cases, though, it can contribute to a hyperinflammatory response and disease severity, resulting in poor outcomes, such as during flu and potentially COVID-19. Lastly, a third situation may occur since viruses are obligatory intracellular parasites that hijack the host cell machinery for their infection and replication. Viruses such as HIV-1 use the purinergic system to favor their infection and persistence within the host cell. Therefore, understanding the particular nuances of purinergic signaling in each viral infection may contribute to designing proper therapeutic strategies to treat viral diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nayara Carvalho-Barbosa
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Edifício do Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Bloco G. Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373. Cidade Universitária, Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Julianna Dias Zeidler
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Edifício do Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Bloco G. Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373. Cidade Universitária, Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Luiz Eduardo Baggio Savio
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Edifício do Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Bloco G. Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373. Cidade Universitária, Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Robson Coutinho-Silva
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Edifício do Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Bloco G. Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373. Cidade Universitária, Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-902, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Banjac J, Vuković V, Pustahija T, Bohucki N, Berić DK, Medić S, Petrović V, Ristić M. Epidemiological Characteristics of COVID-19 during Seven Consecutive Epidemiological Waves (2020-2022) in the North Bačka District, Serbia. Viruses 2023; 15:2221. [PMID: 38005898 PMCID: PMC10674962 DOI: 10.3390/v15112221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to pose a threat to global public health. The purpose of this research was to determine the epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 in the North Bačka district while observing seven pandemic waves. The cross-sectional study was based on data from the COVID-19 surveillance database of the Institute for Public Health of Vojvodina during the period from March 2020 to December 2022. A total of 38,685 primary infections and 4067 reinfections caused by SARS-CoV-2 were notified. Pandemic waves caused by the Delta variant (cumulative incidence rate of 2482.37/100,000) and by the Omicron variant (cumulative incidence rate of 2994.45/100,000) emerged as significant focal points during the surveillance period. Over the course of three consecutive years (2020-2022), women were more affected (50.11%, 54.03%, and 55.68%, respectively). The highest incidence rates in age-specific categories were recorded in 2021 for the age group 40-49 (1345.32 per 10,000 inhabitants), while in 2022, they shifted towards the elderly population. Regarding vaccination status at the time of diagnosis, in 2021, around 15% of patients were vaccinated, while in 2022, the number increased to 37%. The most widely received vaccine was BBIBP-CorV (67.45%), followed by BNT162b2 (19.81%), Gam-COVID-Vac (9.31%), and ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 (3.42%) vaccine. The implementation of stringent public health measures and their mitigation, together with the emergence of new variants, influenced the dynamics of COVID-19 pandemic waves in the North Bačka district. Notably, throughout the study period, the working-age population was the most affected, along with females, with a mild clinical presentation dominating. Reinfections were most frequently recorded during the latter pandemic waves. Dealing with this pandemic has provided some valuable lessons for the development of future strategies in the case of a similar public health crisis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Banjac
- Public Health Institute Subotica, 24000 Subotica, Serbia; (J.B.); (N.B.); (D.K.B.)
| | - Vladimir Vuković
- Institute of Public Health of Vojvodina, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (T.P.); (S.M.); (V.P.); (M.R.)
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Tatjana Pustahija
- Institute of Public Health of Vojvodina, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (T.P.); (S.M.); (V.P.); (M.R.)
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Nebojša Bohucki
- Public Health Institute Subotica, 24000 Subotica, Serbia; (J.B.); (N.B.); (D.K.B.)
| | | | - Snežana Medić
- Institute of Public Health of Vojvodina, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (T.P.); (S.M.); (V.P.); (M.R.)
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Vladimir Petrović
- Institute of Public Health of Vojvodina, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (T.P.); (S.M.); (V.P.); (M.R.)
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Mioljub Ristić
- Institute of Public Health of Vojvodina, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (T.P.); (S.M.); (V.P.); (M.R.)
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Setiadi W, Effendi Q, Johar E, Yohan B, Wibowo DP, Syahrani L, Pramono AA, Kartapradja HH, Yudhaputri FA, Dewi BE, Malik SG, Myint KSA, Soebandrio A, Safari D. Significant increase in anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies after administration of heterologous mRNA-based vaccine booster in individuals receiving two doses of inactivated COVID-19 vaccine: A single-center study in healthcare workers in Jakarta, Indonesia. J Infect Public Health 2023; 16:1848-1851. [PMID: 37837920 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2023.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vaccine plays an important role in breaking SARS-CoV-2 transmission and accelerating the path to pandemic recovery. Currently, there is still limited data on heterologous COVID-19 booster vaccination efficacy and effectiveness in Indonesia. METHODS Antibody response was retrospectively analyzed from 156 serum collected from healthcare workers that have received mRNA-1273 vaccine as the booster against SARS-CoV-2. These individuals had previously received the full two doses of inactivated anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Serological analysis was performed to measure total antibody, as well as IgA and IgG antibodies specific to spike (S) protein using ECLIA and ELISA methods. RESULTS A significant increase in total, IgA, and IgG antibody titers was reported in vaccine receiving a third heterologous booster dose of mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccine following two doses of inactivated type. CONCLUSION The third heterologous booster dose of vaccine may be beneficial to individuals with or without previous history of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wuryantari Setiadi
- Eijkman Research Center for Molecular Biology, National Research and Innovation Agency, Cibinong, West Java, Indonesia
| | - Qothrunnada Effendi
- Graduate Programme in Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Edison Johar
- Eijkman Institute for Molecular Biology, Jakarta, Indonesia; Exeins Health Initiative, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Benediktus Yohan
- Eijkman Institute for Molecular Biology, Jakarta, Indonesia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Lepa Syahrani
- Eijkman Institute for Molecular Biology, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | | | - Hannie H Kartapradja
- Eijkman Research Center for Molecular Biology, National Research and Innovation Agency, Cibinong, West Java, Indonesia
| | | | - Beti Ernawati Dewi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Safarina G Malik
- Eijkman Institute for Molecular Biology, Jakarta, Indonesia; Mochtar Riady Institute for Nanotechnology, Tangerang, Banten, Indonesia
| | - Khin Saw Aye Myint
- Eijkman Institute for Molecular Biology, Jakarta, Indonesia; Exeins Health Initiative, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Amin Soebandrio
- Eijkman Institute for Molecular Biology, Jakarta, Indonesia; Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Dodi Safari
- Eijkman Research Center for Molecular Biology, National Research and Innovation Agency, Cibinong, West Java, Indonesia.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
McCarthy A, O'Neill B. COVID-19 Vaccines and Axillary Nerve Dysfunction: A Case Report. Cureus 2023; 15:e49269. [PMID: 38143650 PMCID: PMC10746867 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 resulted in a worldwide pandemic and the rapid introduction of vaccines in an attempt to mitigate it. Neuritis and neuropathy after intramuscular injection had been previously seen with influenza vaccines and appear to be a side effect of the COVID-19 vaccine as well. In the following report, we present the case of a 43-year-old female who developed axillary nerve symptoms after administration of the COVID-19 vaccine and her subsequent recovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea McCarthy
- Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, St. James's Hospital, Dublin, IRL
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Weklak D, Tisborn J, Mangold MH, Scheu R, Wodrich H, Hagedorn C, Jönsson F, Kreppel F. Insights from the Construction of Adenovirus-Based Vaccine Candidates against SARS-CoV-2: Expecting the Unexpected. Viruses 2023; 15:2155. [PMID: 38005833 PMCID: PMC10675337 DOI: 10.3390/v15112155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
To contain the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, rapid development of vaccines was required in 2020. Rational design, international efforts, and a lot of hard work yielded the market approval of novel SARS-CoV-2 vaccines based on diverse platforms such as mRNA or adenovirus vectors. The great success of these technologies, in fact, contributed significantly to control the pandemic. Consequently, most scientific literature available in the public domain discloses the results of clinical trials and reveals data of efficaciousness. However, a description of processes and rationales that led to specific vaccine design is only partially available, in particular for adenovirus vectors, even though it could prove helpful for future developments. Here, we disclose our insights from the endeavors to design compatible functional adenoviral vector platform expression cassettes for the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. We observed that contextualizing genes from an ssRNA virus into a DNA virus provides significant challenges. Besides affecting physical titers, expression cassette design of adenoviral vaccine candidates can affect viral propagation and spike protein expression. Splicing of mRNAs was affected, and fusogenicity of the spike protein in ACE2-overexpressing cells was enhanced when the ER retention signal was deleted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Denice Weklak
- Chair of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), Witten/Herdecke University, Stockumer Str. 10, 58453 Witten, Germany; (D.W.); (J.T.); (M.H.M.); (R.S.); (C.H.)
| | - Julian Tisborn
- Chair of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), Witten/Herdecke University, Stockumer Str. 10, 58453 Witten, Germany; (D.W.); (J.T.); (M.H.M.); (R.S.); (C.H.)
| | - Maurin Helen Mangold
- Chair of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), Witten/Herdecke University, Stockumer Str. 10, 58453 Witten, Germany; (D.W.); (J.T.); (M.H.M.); (R.S.); (C.H.)
| | - Raphael Scheu
- Chair of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), Witten/Herdecke University, Stockumer Str. 10, 58453 Witten, Germany; (D.W.); (J.T.); (M.H.M.); (R.S.); (C.H.)
| | - Harald Wodrich
- Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité, MFP CNRS UMR 5234, Université de Bordeaux, 33076 Bordeaux, France;
| | - Claudia Hagedorn
- Chair of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), Witten/Herdecke University, Stockumer Str. 10, 58453 Witten, Germany; (D.W.); (J.T.); (M.H.M.); (R.S.); (C.H.)
| | - Franziska Jönsson
- Chair of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), Witten/Herdecke University, Stockumer Str. 10, 58453 Witten, Germany; (D.W.); (J.T.); (M.H.M.); (R.S.); (C.H.)
| | - Florian Kreppel
- Chair of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), Witten/Herdecke University, Stockumer Str. 10, 58453 Witten, Germany; (D.W.); (J.T.); (M.H.M.); (R.S.); (C.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Ling L, Khan H, Lingwei J, Qiumei L, Zuominyang Z, Khan I. Dynamic risk spillover effect and path of risk transmission across industrial sectors in China during COVID-19 epidemic. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292859. [PMID: 37831727 PMCID: PMC10575517 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the dynamic link between the development of COVID-19 pandemic and industry sector risk spillovers is crucial to explore the underlying mechanisms by which major public health events affect economic systems. This paper applies ElasticNet method proposed by Diebold and Yilmaz (2009, 2012, 2014) to estimate the dynamic risk spillover indicators of 20 industrial sectors in China from 2016 to 2022, and systematically examines the impact of industry risk network fluctuations and the transmission path caused by COVID-19 shock. The findings reveal that risk spillovers of Chinese industries show a dynamic change of "decline-fluctuation-rebound" with the three phases of COVID-19 epidemic. At the beginning of the epidemic, machinery and equipment, paper and printing, tourism and hotels, media and information services, and agriculture were the exporters of epidemic risk, while materials, transportation equipment, commercial trade, health care, and environmental protection were the importers of epidemic risk; However, as the epidemic developed further, the direction and effect of risk transmission in the industry was reversed. Examining the network characteristics of the pair sectors, we found that under the epidemic shock, the positive risk spillover from tourism and hotels, culture, education and sports to consumer goods, finance, and energy industries was significantly increased, and finance and real estate industries were affected by the risk impact of more industries, while the number of industries affected by information technology and computer industry was significantly reduced. This paper shows that there is inter-industry risk transmission of the COVID-19 epidemic shock, and the risk transmission feeds back in a cycle between industries as the epidemic develops, driving the economy into a vicious circle. The role of the service sector in blocking the spread of negative shocks from the epidemic should be emphasized and brought into play to avoid increasing the overall economic vulnerability. This study will help to deepen the understanding of scholars and policy makers on the network transmission effects of the epidemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Ling
- School of Business Administration, Guangxi University of Finance and Economics, Nanning, China
| | - Hayat Khan
- School of Economics and management, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiang Lingwei
- School of Business Administration, Guangxi University of Finance and Economics, Nanning, China
| | - Li Qiumei
- School of Business Administration, Guangxi University of Finance and Economics, Nanning, China
| | - Zhang Zuominyang
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Finance and Economics, Nanning, China
| | - Itbar Khan
- College of Economics, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Azam T, Alam I, Sarfraz M, Mohsin M. Energizing sustainable development: renewable energy's impact on South Asian environmental quality. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:109331-109342. [PMID: 37924168 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30045-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
This study examines the impact of CO2 emissions, globalization, economic growth, and renewable and non-renewable energies consumption in South Asian countries between 1985 and 2019. We employ a fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS) method to achieve the purpose of this study. The empirical results of this study indicate that globalization positively impacts CO2 emissions. Furthermore, the study indicates that the consumption of non-renewable energy contributes to environmental pollution. Moreover, the findings support the existence of the EKC hypothesis in these countries. As economic growth increases, environmental degradation will also increase, and vice versa. Environmental degradation, however, decreases as economic growth increases after a certain threshold. For countries to cope with the problem of environmental degradation, the pragmatic results recommend that they promote and subsidize all green energy sources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamoor Azam
- School of Management Sciences and Economics, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Isbat Alam
- College of Business Administration, Liaoning Technical University, Liaoning Province, Huludao, 125105, China
| | - Muddassar Sarfraz
- School of Management, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China.
| | - Muhammad Mohsin
- School of Business, Hunan University of Humanities, Science and Technology, Loudi, Hunan, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
da Silva FF, de Abreu LC, Daboin BEG, Morais TC, Cavalcanti MPE, Bezerra IMP, da Silva CG, Figueira FAMDS, de Caldas Guedes VV, Perez Riera AR. Temporal Analysis of COVID-19 Epidemiological Indicators in a Low-Income Brazilian Context: A Retrospective Analysis in Paraiba State. Viruses 2023; 15:2016. [PMID: 37896793 PMCID: PMC10611110 DOI: 10.3390/v15102016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Northeast Brazil is a region with great international tourist potential. Among the states that make up this region, Paraíba stands out due to the presence of vulnerable groups and factors that contribute to adverse outcomes of COVID-19. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the epidemiological data on the incidence, mortality, and case fatality of COVID-19 in Paraíba. An ecological, population-based study was performed, with data extracted from the Brazilian Ministry of Health database. All cases and deaths from COVID-19 from March 2020 to December 2022 were included. The time series was built by applying the Prais-Winsten regression model, and the daily percent change was calculated to analyze the trends. The highest case fatality of the entire period was in April 2020 (7.8%), but in March 2021, the state broke the dismal record of 1248 deaths and the highest mortality rate (30.5 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants). Stationary mortality and case fatality were better in 2022; however, in February 2022, the mortality rate was at levels similar to the same month of the previous year. These results illustrate that COVID-19 is evolving and needs to be constantly monitored.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabiola Ferreira da Silva
- Laboratory of Studies Design and Scientific Writing, Postgraduate Division, University Center FMABC, Santo André 09060-870, SP, Brazil; (F.F.d.S.); (L.C.d.A.); (B.E.G.D.); (C.G.d.S.); (A.R.P.R.)
| | - Luiz Carlos de Abreu
- Laboratory of Studies Design and Scientific Writing, Postgraduate Division, University Center FMABC, Santo André 09060-870, SP, Brazil; (F.F.d.S.); (L.C.d.A.); (B.E.G.D.); (C.G.d.S.); (A.R.P.R.)
- Department of Integrated Health Education, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria 29075-910, ES, Brazil
- School of Medicine, University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
- Post-Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine of the University of São Paulo, São Paulo 01246-903, SP, Brazil; (M.P.E.C.); (F.A.M.d.S.F.)
| | - Blanca Elena Guerrero Daboin
- Laboratory of Studies Design and Scientific Writing, Postgraduate Division, University Center FMABC, Santo André 09060-870, SP, Brazil; (F.F.d.S.); (L.C.d.A.); (B.E.G.D.); (C.G.d.S.); (A.R.P.R.)
- School of Medicine, University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
| | - Tassiane Cristina Morais
- Department of Integrated Health Education, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria 29075-910, ES, Brazil
- School of Sciences of Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Vitória (EMESCAM), Vitoria 29045-402, ES, Brazil;
| | - Matheus Paiva Emidio Cavalcanti
- Post-Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine of the University of São Paulo, São Paulo 01246-903, SP, Brazil; (M.P.E.C.); (F.A.M.d.S.F.)
| | | | - Célia Guarnieri da Silva
- Laboratory of Studies Design and Scientific Writing, Postgraduate Division, University Center FMABC, Santo André 09060-870, SP, Brazil; (F.F.d.S.); (L.C.d.A.); (B.E.G.D.); (C.G.d.S.); (A.R.P.R.)
| | | | | | - Andres Ricardo Perez Riera
- Laboratory of Studies Design and Scientific Writing, Postgraduate Division, University Center FMABC, Santo André 09060-870, SP, Brazil; (F.F.d.S.); (L.C.d.A.); (B.E.G.D.); (C.G.d.S.); (A.R.P.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Tengilimoğlu D, Tümer T, Bennett RL, Younis MZ. Evaluating the Financial Performances of the Publicly Held Healthcare Companies in Crisis Periods in Türkiye. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2588. [PMID: 37761785 PMCID: PMC10531164 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11182588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the financial performances of the publicly held healthcare companies in crisis periods in Türkiye. The 2018 economic crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic crisis were included in the study as the crisis periods. We collected the financial data of the publicly held healthcare companies and calculated three liquidity, three turnover, three leverage and three profitability ratios through ratio analysis to use as financial performance indicators. We then conducted Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and we performed separate analyses for the 2018 economic crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. The results of the analyses showed that there were no statistically significant differences between the publicly held healthcare companies' liquidity, turnover, leverage, profitability ratios and thus their financial performances before the crises and after the crises. While the results are reassuring and give valuable insights to managers and policy makers to determine the areas that needs to be strengthened to be better prepared for possible future crises, our sample was limited. Therefore, this study presents an exploratory foundation for future studies which are needed to make a case for financial stability for the publicly held healthcare companies before and after the crisis periods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dilaver Tengilimoğlu
- Department of Management, Faculty of Management, Atılım University, Gölbaşı, Ankara 06830, Türkiye;
| | - Tolga Tümer
- Department of Management, Faculty of Management, Atılım University, Gölbaşı, Ankara 06830, Türkiye;
| | - Russell L. Bennett
- Department of Health Policy and Management, College of Health Sciences, Jackson State University, Jackson, MS 39213, USA; (R.L.B.); (M.Z.Y.)
| | - Mustafa Z. Younis
- Department of Health Policy and Management, College of Health Sciences, Jackson State University, Jackson, MS 39213, USA; (R.L.B.); (M.Z.Y.)
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Gächter A, Zauner B, Haider K, Schaffler Y, Probst T, Pieh C, Humer E. Areas of Concern and Support among the Austrian General Population: A Qualitative Content Analytic Mapping of the Shift between Winter 2020/21 and Spring 2022. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2539. [PMID: 37761736 PMCID: PMC10530781 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11182539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze areas of concern and support of the Austrian general population two years into the COVID-19 pandemic. A representative sample (N = 1031) of the Austrian general population was surveyed online between 19 April 2022 and 26 April 2022. A qualitative study design was used to explore the factors of most considerable current concern (Question 1) and the most important sources of support (Question 2). The responses to the two open-ended questions were evaluated using a conventional content analysis, and categories were formed according to the frequency of the answers. The analysis revealed that inflation and finances (30% of participants) and the war in Ukraine (22%) were the greatest sources of concern, followed by mental health (11%), and physical health (11%). Factors such as social contacts within and outside the family were mentioned most frequently as sources of support (36% of participants), followed by recreational activities (23%) and attitudes and abilities (22%). Compared to data collected at the end of the first year of the pandemic (between 23 December 2020 and 4 January 2021), concern about one's financial situation was now mentioned more frequently (30% vs. 8,5%). On the other hand, different types of pandemic-related concerns were mentioned less often. Social contacts and recreation were mentioned as the most important sources of support at both time points (46% and 36% of the participants). The results suggest that the economic concerns are lagging behind the restrictions imposed by the pandemic. In addition, the impending war in Ukraine seems to have a relevant impact on mental health in Austria. Further nuanced qualitative research, particularly involving vulnerable groups such as low-income individuals and the unemployed, is crucial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Afsaneh Gächter
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (B.Z.); (K.H.); (Y.S.); (C.P.); (E.H.)
| | - Barbara Zauner
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (B.Z.); (K.H.); (Y.S.); (C.P.); (E.H.)
| | - Katja Haider
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (B.Z.); (K.H.); (Y.S.); (C.P.); (E.H.)
| | - Yvonne Schaffler
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (B.Z.); (K.H.); (Y.S.); (C.P.); (E.H.)
| | - Thomas Probst
- Division of Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
| | - Christoph Pieh
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (B.Z.); (K.H.); (Y.S.); (C.P.); (E.H.)
| | - Elke Humer
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (B.Z.); (K.H.); (Y.S.); (C.P.); (E.H.)
- Faculty of Psychotherapy Science, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, 1020 Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Skowron K, Grudlewska-Buda K, Khamesipour F. Zoonoses and emerging pathogens. BMC Microbiol 2023; 23:232. [PMID: 37612609 PMCID: PMC10463800 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-023-02984-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Zoonoses represent a major challenge for many disciplines, including microbiology, epidemiology, veterinary, medicine and ecology. Moreover, they pose severe risks to human health and economy. In this editorial, we invite contributions to a BMC Microbiology collection on 'Zoonoses and emerging pathogens', covering research on the pathogenesis, identification, treatment and control of zoonoses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Skowron
- Department of Microbiology, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Toruń, Poland.
| | - Katarzyna Grudlewska-Buda
- Department of Microbiology, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Toruń, Poland
| | - Faham Khamesipour
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Lin Y, Chen T. Response Strategies for Emerging Infectious Diseases: More Efforts Are Needed. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:404. [PMID: 37624342 PMCID: PMC10459203 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8080404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, emerging infectious disease outbreaks have placed significant health and socioeconomic burdens upon the population [...].
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuhao Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Tianmu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Innovation Platform for Industry-Education Integration in Vaccine Research, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Mustafa ZU, Maqbool F, Wahid M, Salman M, Haroon S, Khan YH, Mallhi TH, Godman B. Short-term adverse effects of COVID-19 vaccines after the first, second, and booster doses: a cross-sectional survey from Punjab, Pakistan, and the implications. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2023; 56:e0044. [PMID: 37283345 DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0044-2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Safety and efficacy concerns regarding coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines are common among the public and have a negative impact on their uptake. We aimed to report the adverse effects currently associated with the vaccine in Pakistan to build confidence among the population for its adoption. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted in five districts of the Punjab province of Pakistan between January and March 2022. The participants were recruited using convenience sampling. All data were analyzed using SPSS 22. RESULTS We recruited 1622 people with the majority aged between 25-45 years. Of these, 51% were female, including 27 pregnant women and 42 lactating mothers. Most participants had received the Sinopharm (62.6%) or Sinovac (17.8%) vaccines. The incidences of at least one side effect after the first (N = 1622), second (N = 1484), and booster doses (N = 219) of the COVID-19 vaccine were 16.5%, 20.1%, and 32%, respectively. Inflammation/erythema at the injection site, pain at the injection site, fever, and bone/muscle pain were common side effects of vaccination. No significant differences were observed in the adverse effect scores between all demographic variables except for pregnancy (P = 0.012) after the initial dose. No significant association was observed between any variable and the side effect scores of the second and booster doses of the vaccine. CONCLUSIONS Our study showed a 16-32% prevalence of self-reported side effects after the first, second, and booster COVID-19 vaccinations. Most adverse effects were mild and transient, indicating the safety of different COVID-19 vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zia Ul Mustafa
- Discipline of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacy Services, District Headquarters Hospital, Pakpattan, Pakistan
| | - Fareeha Maqbool
- Department of Medicine, Faisalabad Medical University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Mahnoor Wahid
- Department of Medicine, Nishtar Medical University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Salman
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Allied Health Sciences, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Shahzaib Haroon
- Department of Medicine, District Headquarters Hospital, Pakpattan, Pakistan
| | - Yusra Habib Khan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tauqeer Hussain Mallhi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa, South Africa
- Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Amjad Z, Maryam I, Munir M, Salman M, Baraka MA, Mustafa ZU, Khan YH, Mallhi TH, Hasan SS, Meyer JC, Godman B. COVID-19 Vaccines Status, Acceptance and Hesitancy among Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study and the Implications for Pakistan and Beyond. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11050904. [PMID: 37243008 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11050904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy continues to be a widespread problem in Pakistan due to various conspiracy beliefs, myths and misconceptions. Since the hemodialysis population is at a higher risk of contracting infections, we sought to investigate the current COVID-19 immunization status and reasons for any vaccine hesitancy among these patients in Pakistan. This cross-sectional study was conducted among maintenance hemodialysis patients at six hospitals in the Punjab Province of Pakistan. Data were collected anonymously using a questionnaire. A total of 399 hemodialysis patients took part in the survey, the majority of them were male (56%) and aged 45-64 years. A calculated 62.4% of the patients reported receiving at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Of those vaccinated (249), 73.5% had received two doses and 16.9% had received a booster dose. The most common reasons for vaccination were "being aware they were at high risk" (89.6%), "fear of getting infected" (89.2%) and "willingness to fight against COVID-19-pandemic" (83.9%). Of the 150 patients who had not yet been vaccinated, only 10 showed a willingness to take the COVID-19 vaccine. The major reasons for refusal included "COVID-19 is not a real problem" (75%), the "corona vaccine is a conspiracy (72.1%)" and "I don't need the vaccine" (60.7%). Our study revealed that only 62% patients receiving hemodialysis were partially or completely vaccinated against COVID-19. Consequently, there is a need to initiate aggressive approaches to educate this high-risk population in order to address their concerns with vaccine safety and efficacy as well as correct current myths and misconceptions to improve the COVID-19 immunization status in this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zara Amjad
- Department of Paediatrics, District Head Quarter (DHQ), Bhakkar 30000, Pakistan
| | - Iqra Maryam
- Department of Medicine, Jinnah Hospital Lahore, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Maria Munir
- Department of Medicine, Faisalabad Medical University, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Salman
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Allied Health Sciences, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Mohamed A Baraka
- Clinical Pharmacy Program, College of Pharmacy, Al Ain Campus, Al Ain University, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 64141, United Arab Emirates
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11651, Egypt
| | - Zia Ul Mustafa
- Discipline of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Gelugor 11800, Penang, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacy Services, District Headquarter (DHQ) Hospital, Pakpattan 57400, Pakistan
| | - Yusra Habib Khan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tauqeer Hussain Mallhi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syed Shahzad Hasan
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield HD1 3DH, UK
| | - Johanna C Meyer
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa
- South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Molotlegi Street, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa
- Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science (SIPBS), University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
| |
Collapse
|