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Guo R, Torrejon VM, Reynolds C, Fayad R, Pickering J, Devine R, Rees D, Greenwood S, Kandemir C, Fisher LHC, White A, Quested T, Koh LSC. Assessing the environmental sustainability of consumer-centric poultry chain in the UK through life cycle approaches and the household simulation model. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 929:172634. [PMID: 38643883 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172634] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Chicken fillets, predominantly encased in disposable plastic packaging, represent a common perishable commodity frequently found in the shopping baskets of British consumers, with an annual slaughter exceeding 1.1 billion chickens. The associated environmental implications are of considerable significance. However, a noticeable gap exists concerning the household-level ramifications of chicken meat consumption, which remains a prominent driver (165 kg CO2eyr-1 per capita) of environmental impacts in the United Kingdom (UK). This study's primary objective is to integrate Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology with insights derived from a spectrum of interventions simulated within the Household Simulation Model (HHSM). The interventions that are simulated are influenced by various consumer behaviours related to the purchase, consumption, storage and disposal of chicken fillets. The overarching aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the environmental consequences associated with each intervention. The research encompasses eight distinct household archetypes and the UK average, with a focus on discerning differences in their environmental influence. The introduction of shelf-life extension measures leads to a reduction in the overall environmental impacts (in μPt), with reductions ranging from 1 % to 18 %. Concurrently, waste treatment's environmental burdens can be curtailed by 9 % to 69 % for the UK average. Of the 12 interventions tested, the intervention that combines a one-day extension in the shelf life of open packs and a three-day extension for unopened packs leads to the greatest reduction in environmental impacts, at 18 % for the entire process and 69 % for the waste treatment. This intervention is estimated to yield annual reductions of 130,722 t of CO2 emissions across the entire process and 34,720 t of CO2 emissions from waste treatment, as compared to the default scenario. These findings demonstrate the importance of integrating consumer behaviour, food waste, and packaging considerations within the domain of food LCA research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Guo
- Management School, Advanced Resource Efficiency Centre and Energy Institute, The University of Sheffield, UK
| | | | | | - Ramzi Fayad
- Management School, Advanced Resource Efficiency Centre and Energy Institute, The University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Jack Pickering
- Management School, Advanced Resource Efficiency Centre and Energy Institute, The University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Rachel Devine
- WRAP, Blenheim Court, 19 George Street, Banbury OX16 5BH, UK
| | - Deborah Rees
- Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, UK
| | - Sarah Greenwood
- Grantham Centre for Sustainable Futures, The University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Cansu Kandemir
- Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre, The University of Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Adrian White
- Centre for Food Policy; City, University of London, UK
| | - Tom Quested
- WRAP, Blenheim Court, 19 George Street, Banbury OX16 5BH, UK
| | - Lenny S C Koh
- Management School, Advanced Resource Efficiency Centre and Energy Institute, The University of Sheffield, UK.
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Jalala SS, Veronese G, Diab M, Abu Jamei Y, Hamam R, Kagee A. Quality of life among residents of Gaza, Palestine: the predictive role of mental distress, fear of COVID-19, and social support. BMC Psychol 2024; 12:152. [PMID: 38491521 PMCID: PMC10943779 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-024-01642-8] [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: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Living under siege and deteriorated health, social, educational, and economic conditions and isolation with scarce opportunities to fulfil basic needs and aspirations affect the civil population's mental health and perceived quality of life. In this cross-sectional investigation, we explored the consequences of mental distress, fear of COVID-19, and social support for QoL in the Gaza strip. METHODS Nine hundred seventy nine (32.9% males; 67.1% females; mean age was 35.2 years; s.d. = 11.4) adults were recruited in the Gaza strip. We used the Fear for COVID-19 scale (FCS-19), The WHOQOL-BREF Scale, Berlin Social Support Scale (BSSS), Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS). Pearson correlation coefficient was computed to assess relationships between quality of life, fear of COVID19, mental distress, and social support; a hierarchical regression analysis was used to assess the association between QoL as the dependent variable and demographic variables and fear of COVID19, mental health, and social support as the independent variables. RESULTS QoL was positively associated with perceived emotion, instrumental, and support seeking. Depression, anxiety, stress, and fear of COVID19 were negatively associated with quality of life. Gender was significantly associated with lower QoL. The study highlighted that the level of fear of COVID-19 was negatively influencing individuals' quality of life (QoL). This fear was negatively associated to psychological distress, gender, place of residence, and family type. Lower-educated and poorer participants had lower QoL scores. Conversely, female gender was notably linked to a lower QOL. The hierarchical regression confirmed that COVID-19 was an added burden for the Palestinian population. The fear of COVID-19 term added a 6.2% variance in QoL. In the final analysis, all predictors were statistically significant, with the fear of COVID-19 term recording a higher contribution of 22.5%, followed by depression term with 21.5%, perceived emotional 18.5%, income at 15.4%, and perceived instruments at 14.8% towards QoL. CONCLUSIONS Practitioners and policymakers must consider the severe violation of human rights when developing psychosocial programs to intervene in the COVID-19 crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Guido Veronese
- Department of Human Sciences and Education "R. Massa", University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Matieland, South Africa
| | - Marwan Diab
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Matieland, South Africa.
| | | | - Rawya Hamam
- Gaza Community Mental Health Program, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Ashraf Kagee
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Matieland, South Africa
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Ismail IH, Khatib SF, Abbas AF, Ali Khan MNA, Sulimany HGH, Bazhair AH. Crisis and environmental governance decisions amidst the COVID-19 pandemic: Lessons from European countries. Heliyon 2024; 10:e25673. [PMID: 38370258 PMCID: PMC10867342 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e25673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigates the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis on environmental governance decisions within publicly listed European companies. It utilizes a comprehensive analysis of publicly available data regarding these firms and check the environmental governance practices during the pandemic, informed by risk society theory which describes modern societies marked by ongoing risks and uncertainties primarily stemming from technological and scientific advancements. The regression and robustness analysis has been performed on how companies have responded to the crisis, specifically in terms of their approaches to environmental sustainability and governance. Covid-19 has a significantly positive impact on environmental governance (EG), with a coefficient of 18.73 and a p-value of .000. Other variables like human development (HD), size, and free cash flow (FCF) positively affect EG, while corruption (Corrupt) and leverage (Lev) have a negative influence. Robust analysis confirms the negative impact of Covid-19 on EG, with a coefficient of 18.46 and a p-value below .01, consistent across different subsamples. However, it also underscores the challenges companies have encountered in upholding their sustainability efforts amid the crisis. In sum, this research offers valuable insights into how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected environmental governance decisions, with potential implications for policymakers, regulators, and business leaders striving to advance sustainability in the post-pandemic landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iyad H.M. Ismail
- School of Business Management, University Utara Malaysia, Kedah 06010, Malaysia
| | - Saleh F.A. Khatib
- Faculty of Management, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor 81310, Malaysia
- Faculty of Business, Sohar University, Sohar, 311, Oman
| | - Alhamzah F. Abbas
- Faculty of Management, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor 81310, Malaysia
| | | | - Hamid Ghazi H Sulimany
- Accounting Department, Faculty of Business Administration College, Taif University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ayman Hassan Bazhair
- Department of Economic and Finance, Faculty of Business Administration College, Taif University, Saudi Arabia
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Gatto A, Mattera R, Panarello D. For whom the bell tolls. A spatial analysis of the renewable energy transition determinants in Europe in light of the Russia-Ukraine war. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 352:119833. [PMID: 38262284 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119833] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
The ongoing invasion of Russia of Ukraine and energy crises have sparked concern about economic and geopolitical stability all over the world. In Europe, the war has destabilized and endangered the energy cooperation and transition between European countries within and outside of the EU. This emergency has shown once more the importance of energy resilience policies to offset the vulnerability of energy systems and energy insecurity at the national and regional levels. Consilience has been reached on the necessity of enhancing EU energy security as an adaptation strategy. This work contributes to the existing scholarship on renewable energy transition and citizens' perception, focusing on European Union member states. Key characteristics of the renewable energy transition in the EU prior to the energy crisis and the war in Ukraine are examined. To this end, we analyze selected economic, environmental, social, policy and political variables on energy sorting from the Eurobarometer studying European citizens' perceptions. The exercise makes use of spatially-clustered regression to explore spatial heterogeneity and to elicit determinant information on specific regional groups. We learn that southern Europeans attribute less importance to energy infrastructure to facilitate the renewable energy transition and repute the EU solidity not a requirement for energy security access. Conversely, northern European citizens tend not to associate the responsibility of the EU in guiding competitiveness and policy toward green energy sources transformation. Robustness tests confirm our hypothesis. Regardless of regional differences, the EU energy and ecological transition will thrive with industrial and political cohesion. This process will pass through increased trust in institutions and dedicated energy policy action which will smooth the risks and disruptions coming from current and future shocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Gatto
- Wenzhou-Kean University, Wenzhou, China; Centre for Studies on Europe, Azerbaijan State University of Economics, Baku, Azerbaijan.
| | - Raffaele Mattera
- Department of Social and Economic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Demetrio Panarello
- Department of Statistical Sciences "Paolo Fortunati", University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Prometeia, Bologna, Italy
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Schoch M, Lawanyawatna S. Repurposing phone booths into COVID-19 sampling stations: medical operator experiences. Int J Equity Health 2024; 23:23. [PMID: 38321446 PMCID: PMC10848519 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-024-02113-7] [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: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the repurposing of phone booths into COVID-19 sampling stations and assessed medical operator experiences in twelve healthcare facilities in Thailand. Amidst the pandemic, these facilities became sampling stations as an emergency measure to enhance medical staff protection. The stations, repurposed from decommissioned phone booths, aimed to reduce COVID-19 infection risks among healthcare workers and patients. After 13 to 16 months of use, a review collected user satisfaction information from each facility. Results indicated high user satisfaction in addressing protection concerns and increasing swab testing participation. This study discusses station design, operational characteristics, and social benefits, emphasizing their adaptability in resource-limited settings. Findings underscore the potential for repurposing infrastructure in public health emergencies and suggest avenues for future research in sustainable healthcare solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Schoch
- King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT), Bangkok, Thailand
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Kaplish D, Vagha JD, Meshram RJ, Lohiya S. A Comprehensive Review of Inhaled Nitric Oxide Therapy: Current Trends, Challenges, and Future Directions. Cureus 2024; 16:e53558. [PMID: 38445143 PMCID: PMC10913844 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.53558] [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: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
This comprehensive review explores the multifaceted landscape of inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) therapy, tracing its historical evolution, mechanisms of action, clinical applications, challenges, and future directions. The nitric oxide signaling pathway, characterized by vasodilatory effects and anti-inflammatory properties, forms the foundation of iNO's therapeutic efficacy. Clinical applications are found in neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, pulmonary hypertension, and acute respiratory distress syndrome, showcasing its versatility. However, challenges, including cost considerations, technical intricacies, safety concerns, and resistance, highlight the nuanced landscape surrounding iNO therapy. Implications for clinical practice underscore the need for a tailored and evidence-based approach, considering individual patient characteristics and indications. Recommendations for future research emphasize ongoing exploration, novel indications, and the development of targeted therapies. In conclusion, this review positions iNO as a dynamic and adaptable intervention, poised to reshape therapeutic strategies and enhance patient outcomes in critical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divyanshi Kaplish
- Pediatrics, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Jayant D Vagha
- Pediatrics, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Revat J Meshram
- Pediatrics, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Sham Lohiya
- Pediatrics, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research, Wardha, IND
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7
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He Z, Zhang R, Qiu Q, Chen Z. Research on industrial structure adjustment and spillover effect in resource-based regions in the post-pandemic era. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296772. [PMID: 38241288 PMCID: PMC10798538 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Resource-based regions support national economic development and are essential sources of basic energy and raw materials. In the post-pandemic era, however, there are practical situations to deal with, such as a fractured industrial chain, a weaker industrial structure, and a sharp reduction in economic benefits. Based on data collected from 68 cities in China, from 2010 to 2021, with 816 observations, this paper explores the industrial development process of resource-based regions in China and the change in the toughness of the industrial structure under the impact of COVID-19. The paper studies and analyzes industrial development trends, industrial structure toughness, and spatial spillover effects. The methods used are the Markov chain model and the Industrial Structure Advancement Index. By building the spatial Dubin model, the paper analyzes the spatial spillover effect of regional industrial development. It decomposes the spillover effect using the partial differential model based on regression. The results show that, during the study period, the comprehensive development level of industries in resource-based regions in China was slowly improving and tended to stabilize after entering the post-pandemic era. The evolution of an advanced industrial structure is significantly heterogeneous among regions, and each region has different toughness. The impact of COVID-19 has reduced the toughness of China's resource-based regions' industrial structure. The spatial spillover effect of regional industrial development is significant. Labor force, technology input, and industrial-structure optimization have different impacts on the industrial development of neighboring regions. In the post-pandemic era, China has used new management methods for more innovation. In order to achieve low-carbon, environmental protection, and sustainable development of resources, realize the rapid recovery of the toughness of industrial structure in China's resource-based cities, and reduce the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, China proposes to expand the supply of resources, improve the allocation of resources, optimize the direction, promote the rational flow and efficient aggregation of various factors, and enhance the impetus for innovation and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqiong He
- School of Management Science, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu, China
| | - Rongguang Zhang
- School of Management Science, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiwen Qiu
- School of Management Science, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhe Chen
- College of Mathematics and Physics, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu, China
- International Research Centre of Big Data for Sustainable Development Goals(CBAS), Beijing, China
- Digital Hu Line Research Institute, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu, China
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8
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Sun P, Cheng B, Ru J, Li X, Fang G, Xie Y, Shi G, Hou J, Zhao L, Gan L, Ma L, Liang C, Chen Y, Li Z. Nano-carrier DMSN for effective multi-antigen vaccination against SARS-CoV-2. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:11. [PMID: 38167103 PMCID: PMC10763455 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02271-w] [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: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has had a profound impact on the global health and economy. While mass vaccination for herd immunity is effective, emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants can evade spike protein-based COVID-19 vaccines. In this study, we develop a new immunization strategy by utilizing a nanocarrier, dendritic mesoporous silica nanoparticle (DMSN), to deliver the receptor-binding domain (RBD) and conserved T-cell epitope peptides (DMSN-P-R), aiming to activate both humoral and cellular immune responses in the host. The synthesized DMSN had good uniformity and dispersion and showed a strong ability to load the RBD and peptide antigens, enhancing their uptake by antigen-presenting cells (APCs) and promoting antigen delivery to lymph nodes. The DMSN-P-R vaccine elicited potent humoral immunity, characterized by highly specific RBD antibodies. Neutralization tests demonstrated significant antibody-mediated neutralizing activity against live SARS-CoV-2. Crucially, the DMSN-P-R vaccine also induced robust T-cell responses that were specifically stimulated by the RBD and conserved T-cell epitope peptides of SARS-CoV-2. The DMSN demonstrated excellent biocompatibility and biosafety in vitro and in vivo, along with degradability. Our study introduces a promising vaccine strategy that utilizes nanocarriers to deliver a range of antigens, effectively enhancing both humoral and cellular immune responses to prevent virus transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Sun
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
- Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, 315302, China
| | - Bingsheng Cheng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
| | - Jiaxi Ru
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
- Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, 315302, China
| | - Xiaoyan Li
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Detection and Etiological Research of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310051, China
| | - Guicun Fang
- Microscopy Core Facility, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310030, China
| | - Yinli Xie
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
- Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, 315302, China
| | - Guangjiang Shi
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
- Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, 315302, China
| | - Jichao Hou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
| | - Longwei Zhao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
- Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, 315302, China
| | - Lipeng Gan
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
- Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, 315302, China
| | - Lina Ma
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
| | - Chao Liang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
- Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, 315302, China
| | - Yin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Detection and Etiological Research of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310051, China.
| | - Zhiyong Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China.
- Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, 315302, China.
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Wariri O, Afolabi MO, Mukandavire C, Saidu Y, Balogun OD, Ndiaye S, Okpo EA, Nomhwange T, Uthman OA, Kampmann B. COVID-19 vaccination implementation in 52 African countries: trajectory and implications for future pandemic preparedness. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:e013073. [PMID: 38084478 PMCID: PMC10711863 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-013073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To end the COVID-19 pandemic, the WHO set a goal in 2021 to fully vaccinate 70% of the global population by mid-2022. We projected the COVID-19 vaccination trajectory in 52 African countries and compared the projected to the 'actual' or 'observed' coverage as of December 2022. We also estimated the required vaccination speed needed to have attained the WHO 70% coverage target by December 2022. METHODS We obtained publicly available, country-reported daily COVID-19 vaccination data, covering the initial 9 months following the deployment of vaccines. We used a deterministic compartmental Susceptible-Exposed-Infectious-Recovered-type model and fit the model to the number of COVID-19 cases and vaccination coverage in each African country using a Markov chain Monte Carlo approach within a Bayesian framework. FINDINGS Only nine of the 52 African countries (Tunisia, Cabo Verde, Lesotho, Mozambique, Rwanda, Seychelles, Morocco, Botswana and Mauritius) were on track to achieve full COVID-19 vaccination coverage rates ranging from 72% to 97% by the end of December 2022, based on their progress after 9 months of vaccine deployment. Of the 52 countries, 26 (50%) achieved 'actual' or 'observed' vaccination coverage rates within ±10 percentage points of their projected vaccination coverage. Among the countries projected to achieve <30% by December 2022, nine of them (Chad, Niger, Nigeria, South Sudan, Tanzania, Somalia, Zambia, Sierra Leone and Côte d'Ivoire) achieved a higher observed coverage than the projected coverage, ranging from 12.3 percentage points in South Sudan to 35.7 percentage points above the projected coverage in Tanzania. Among the 52 countries, 83% (43 out of 52) needed to at least double their vaccination trajectory after 9 months of deployment to reach the 70% target by December 2022. CONCLUSION Our findings can guide countries in planning strategies for future global health emergencies and learning from each other, especially those that exceeded expectations and made significant progress towards the WHO's 2022 COVID-19 vaccination target despite projected poor coverage rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oghenebrume Wariri
- Vaccines and Immunity Theme, MRC Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Banjul, The Gambia
- Vaccine Centre, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Muhammed Olanrewaju Afolabi
- Vaccine Centre, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Christinah Mukandavire
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Yauba Saidu
- Clinton Health Access Initiative, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | | | - Sidy Ndiaye
- WHO Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
| | | | - Terna Nomhwange
- Immunization, WHO Country Office for Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Olalekan A Uthman
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Warwick Centre for Global Health, Division of Health Sciences, University of Warwick Medical School, Coventry, UK
| | - Beate Kampmann
- Vaccines and Immunity Theme, MRC Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Banjul, The Gambia
- Vaccine Centre, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Centre for Global Health, Charité Universitatsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
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Sun X, Mi Z. Factors Driving China's Carbon Emissions after the COVID-19 Outbreak. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:19125-19136. [PMID: 37972354 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c03802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
The outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may exert profound impacts on China's carbon emissions via structural changes. Due to a lack of data, previous studies have focused on quantifying the changes in carbon emissions but have failed to identify structural changes in the determinants of carbon emissions. Here, we use China's latest input-output table and apply structural decomposition analyses to understand the dynamic changes in the determinants of carbon emissions from 2012 to 2020, specifically the impact of COVID-19 on carbon emissions. We find that final demand per capita contributed to emissions growth at a slower pace, but production structure drove a greater carbon emissions increase than before the pandemic. Export-led emissions growth rebounded, and investment-led emissions were more concentrated in the construction sector. The carbon intensity of several heavy industries increased, e.g., the nonmetallic products sector, the metal products sector, and the petroleum, coking, and nuclear fuel sector. In addition, lower production efficiency and increased reliance on carbon-intensive inputs indicated a deterioration in production structure. For policy implications, efforts should be undertaken to increase investment in low-carbon industries and increase the proportion of consumption in GDP to shift investment-led growth to consumption-led growth for an inclusive and green recovery from the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinlu Sun
- The Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction, University College London, London WC1E 7HB, U.K
| | - Zhifu Mi
- The Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction, University College London, London WC1E 7HB, U.K
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11
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Chakraborty C, Bhattacharya M, Alshammari A, Alharbi M, Albekairi TH, Zheng C. Exploring the structural and molecular interaction landscape of nirmatrelvir and Mpro complex: The study might assist in designing more potent antivirals targeting SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses. J Infect Public Health 2023; 16:1961-1970. [PMID: 37883855 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2023.09.020] [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: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several therapeutics have been developed and approved against SARS-CoV-2 occasionally; nirmatrelvir is one of them. The drug target of nirmatrelvir is Mpro, and therefore, it is necessary to comprehend the structural and molecular interaction of the Mpro-nirmatrelvir complex. METHODS Integrative bioinformatics, system biology, and statistical models were used to analyze the macromolecular complex. RESULTS Using two macromolecular complexes, the study illustrated the interactive residues, H-bonds, and interactive interfaces. It informed of six and nine H-bond formations for the first and second complex, respectively. The maximum bond length was observed as 3.33 Å. The ligand binding pocket's surface area and volume were noted as 303.485 Å2 and 295.456 Å3 for the first complex and 308.397 Å2 and 304.865 Å3 for the second complex. The structural proteome dynamics were evaluated by analyzing the complex's NMA mobility, eigenvalues, deformability, and B-factor. Conversely, a model was created to assess the therapeutic status of nirmatrelvir. CONCLUSIONS Our study reveals the structural and molecular interaction landscape of Mpro-nirmatrelvir complex. The study will guide researchers in designing more broad-spectrum antiviral molecules mimicking nirmatrelvir, which assist in fighting against SARS-CoV-2 and other infectious viruses. It will also help to prepare for future epidemics or pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiranjib Chakraborty
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Adamas University, Kolkata, West Bengal 700126, India.
| | - Manojit Bhattacharya
- Department of Zoology, Fakir Mohan University, Vyasa Vihar, Balasore 756020, Odisha, India
| | - Abdulrahman Alshammari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Post Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Metab Alharbi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Post Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Thamer H Albekairi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Post Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Chunfu Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Zoonose Prevention and Control at Universities of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Medical College, Inner Mongolia Minzu University, Tongliao 028000, China; Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Infection Diseases, University of Calgary, Health Research Innovation Centre, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada.
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12
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Erdiaw-Kwasie MO, Owusu-Ansah KK, Abunyewah M, Alam K, Hailemariam A, Arhin P, Zander KK, Lassa J. Circular economy, environmental quality and tourism receipts in Europe: A time series data analysis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288098. [PMID: 38032922 PMCID: PMC10688725 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288098] [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: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The study examines how progress towards a circular economy (CE), patents related to recycling and secondary raw materials as a proxy for innovation, affect tourism receipts. The study uses Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) and Error Correction Method (ECM) to analyse time series data from EU countries from 2000 to 2020. Our estimates show that there exist long-run and short-run equilibrium relationships. In sum, evidence shows that promoting circular innovative practices, including recycling and using secondary raw materials in tourist destinations, could improve environmental quality and positively impact tourism receipts. The study concludes with policy and practical suggestions for circular economy innovation towards green tourism, destination management, and sustainable tourism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Odei Erdiaw-Kwasie
- Business and Accounting Discipline, Faculty of Arts and Society, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Kofi Kusi Owusu-Ansah
- College of Arts and Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, United States of America
| | - Matthew Abunyewah
- The Australasian Centre for Resilience Implementation for Sustainable Communities, College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern TerritoryAustralia
| | - Khorshed Alam
- Business School, University of Southern Queensland, Queensland, Australia
| | - Abebe Hailemariam
- Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Patrick Arhin
- Department of Spatial Planning, Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Kerstin K. Zander
- Northern Institute, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jonatan Lassa
- Northern Institute, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Queensland, Australia
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13
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Ang L, Hernández-Rodríguez E, Cyriaque V, Yin X. COVID-19's environmental impacts: Challenges and implications for the future. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 899:165581. [PMID: 37482347 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165581] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Strict measures have curbed the spread of COVID-19, but waste generation and movement limitations have had an unintended impact on the environment over the past 3 years (2020-2022). Many studies have summarized the observed and potential environmental impacts associated with COVID-19, however, only a few have quantified and compared the effects of these unintended environmental impacts; moreover, whether COVID-19 policy stringency had the same effects on the main environmental topic (i.e., CO2 emissions) across the 3 years remains unclear. To answer these questions, we conducted a systematic review of the recent literature and analyzed the main findings. We found that the positive environmental effects of COVID-19 have received more attention than the negative ones (50.6 % versus 35.7 %), especially in emissions reduction (34 % of total literature). Medical waste (14.5 %) received the highest attention among the negative impacts. Although global emission reduction, especially in terms of CO2, has received significant attention, the positive impacts were temporary and only detected in 2020. Strict COVID-19 policies had a more profound and significant effect on CO2 emissions in the aviation sector than in the power and industry sectors. For example, compared with 2019, international aviation related CO2 emissions dropped by 59 %, 49 %, and 25 % in 2020, 2021, and 2022, respectively, while industry related ones dropped by only 3.16 % in 2020. According to our developed evaluation matrix, medical wastes and their associated effects, including the persistent pollution caused by antibiotic resistance genes, heavy metals and microplastics, are the main challenges post the pandemic, especially in China and India, which may counteract the temporary environmental benefits of COVID-19. Overall, the presented results demonstrate methods to quantify the environmental effects of COVID-19 and provide directions for policymakers to develop measures to address the associated environmental issues in the post-COVID-19 world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leeping Ang
- Department of Systematics, Biodiversity and Evolution of Plants, Albrecht-von-Haller Institute of Plant Sciences, University of Goettingen, Untere Karspuele 2, 37073 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Enrique Hernández-Rodríguez
- Institut de Recherche sur les Forets, Université du Quebec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, Canada
| | - Valentine Cyriaque
- Eau Terre Environnement, Institut national de la recherche scientifique, 490 rue de la couronne, Québec, Québec G1K 9A9, Canada
| | - Xiangbo Yin
- Eau Terre Environnement, Institut national de la recherche scientifique, 490 rue de la couronne, Québec, Québec G1K 9A9, Canada.
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14
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Bhattacharya P, John D, Mukherjee N, Ms N, Menon J, Banerjee A. Estimation of non-health gross domestic product (NHGDP) loss due to COVID-19 deaths in West Bengal, India. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e072559. [PMID: 37907289 PMCID: PMC10619121 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-072559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The state of West Bengal witnessed a significant surge of COVID-19 in all three waves. However, there is a gap in understanding the economic loss associated with COVID-19. This study estimates future non-health gross domestic product (NHGDP) losses associated with COVID-19 deaths in West Bengal, India. SETTING Various open domains were used to gather data on COVID-19 deaths in West Bengal and the aforementioned estimates. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES The NHGDP losses were evaluated using the cost-of-illness approach. Future NHGDP losses were discounted at 3%. Excess death estimates by the WHO and Global Burden of Disease (GBD) were used. Sensitivity analysis was carried out by varying discount rates and average age of death (AAD). RESULTS 21 532 deaths in West Bengal from 17 March 2020 to 31 December 2022 decreased the future NHGDP by $0.92 billion. Nearly 90% of loss was due to deaths occurring in the age group of 30 years and above. Majority of the NHGDP loss was borne by the 46-60 years age group. NHGDP loss/death was $55,171; however, the average loss/death declined with rise in age. Based on the GBD and WHO excess death estimates, the NHGDP loss increased to $9.38 billion and $9.42 billion, respectively. When the lower age interval is considered as AAD, the NHGDP loss increased to $1.3 billion. At 5% and 10% discount rates, the losses reduced to $0.767 billion and $0.549 billion, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Results from the study suggest that COVID-19 contributed to a major economic loss in West Bengal. The mortality and morbidity caused by COVID-19, the substantial economic costs at individual and population levels in West Bengal, and probably across India and other countries, is another economic argument for better infection control strategies across the globe to minimise the impact of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paramita Bhattacharya
- Centre for Public Health Research, Manbhum Ananda Ashram Nityananda Trust, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Denny John
- Faculty of Life and Allied Health Sciences, MS Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Nirmalaya Mukherjee
- Centre for Public Health Research, Manbhum Ananda Ashram Nityananda Trust, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Narassima Ms
- Great Lakes Institute of Management, Manamai Village, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Jaideep Menon
- Department of Cardiology, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Amitava Banerjee
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
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15
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Vallée A. Geoepidemiological perspective on COVID-19 pandemic review, an insight into the global impact. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1242891. [PMID: 37927887 PMCID: PMC10620809 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1242891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic showed major impacts, on societies worldwide, challenging healthcare systems, economies, and daily life of people. Geoepidemiology, an emerging field that combines geography and epidemiology, has played a vital role in understanding and combatting the spread of the virus. This interdisciplinary approach has provided insights into the spatial patterns, risk factors, and transmission dynamics of the COVID-19 pandemic at different scales, from local communities to global populations. Spatial patterns have revealed variations in incidence rates, with urban-rural divides and regional hotspots playing significant roles. Cross-border transmission has highlighted the importance of travel restrictions and coordinated public health responses. Risk factors such as age, underlying health conditions, socioeconomic factors, occupation, demographics, and behavior have influenced vulnerability and outcomes. Geoepidemiology has also provided insights into the transmissibility and spread of COVID-19, emphasizing the importance of asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic transmission, super-spreading events, and the impact of variants. Geoepidemiology should be vital in understanding and responding to evolving new viral challenges of this and future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Vallée
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Foch Hospital, Suresnes, France
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16
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Minchón-Medina CA, Timaná-Palacios DJ, Alvarez-Risco A, Del-Aguila-Arcentales S, Yáñez JA. Factors associated with citations of articles on circular economy in the Web of Science: modeling for main publishers. Front Artif Intell 2023; 6:1217210. [PMID: 37841231 PMCID: PMC10570727 DOI: 10.3389/frai.2023.1217210] [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: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The publication of articles on the circular economy has different associated factors to explain the citations registered in the Web of Science. Method Articles from the publishers Elsevier, MDPI, Taylor & Francis, Wiley, and Springer Nature were evaluated. Results It was expected that the older the article was, the more citations it had received, but this was not always the case. It was also recognized that there was a lower number of citations if the articles were too large or if they had too many references. Discussion This analysis helps to establish the factors that must be addressed in order to publish in journals that have a high citation rate. Conclusion: Based on speci?c articles and with speci?c references, it will be possible to increase the probability of citations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Alberto Minchón-Medina
- Departamento de Estadística, Facultad de Ciencias Físicas y Matemática, Universidad Nacional de Trujillo, Trujillo, Perú
| | - Daphne Jannet Timaná-Palacios
- Departamento de Estadística, Facultad de Ciencias Físicas y Matemática, Universidad Nacional de Trujillo, Trujillo, Perú
| | | | | | - Jaime A. Yáñez
- Vicerrectorado de Investigación, Universidad Norbert Wiener, Lima, Perú
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17
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Goniewicz K, Burkle FM. Redefining Global Disaster Management Strategies: Lessons From COVID-19 and the Call for United Action. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2023; 17:e450. [PMID: 37577947 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2023.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
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18
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Moghadam TT, Ochoa Morales CE, Lopez Zambrano MJ, Bruton K, O'Sullivan DTJ. Energy efficient ventilation and indoor air quality in the context of COVID-19 - A systematic review. RENEWABLE & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY REVIEWS 2023; 182:113356. [PMID: 37220488 PMCID: PMC10186986 DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2023.113356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
New COVID-19 ventilation guidelines have resulted in higher energy consumption to maintain indoor air quality (IAQ), and energy efficiency has become a secondary concern. Despite the significance of the studies conducted on COVID-19 ventilation requirements, a comprehensive investigation of the associated energy challenges has not been discussed. This study aims to present a critical systematic review of the Coronavirus viral spreading risk mitigation through ventilation systems (VS) and its relation to energy use. COVID-19 heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC)-related countermeasures proposed by industry professionals have been reviewed and their influence on operating VS and energy consumption have also been discussed. A critical review analysis was then conducted on publications from 2020 to 2022. Four research questions (RQs) have been selected for this review concerning i) maturity of the existing literature, ii) building types and occupancy profile, iii) ventilation types and effective control strategies and iv) challenges and related causes. The results reveal that employing HVAC auxiliary equipment is mostly effective and increased fresh air supply is the most significant challenge associated with increased energy consumption due to maintaining IAQ. Future studies should focus on novel approaches toward solving the apparently conflicting objectives of minimizing energy consumption and maximizing IAQ. Also, effective ventilation control strategies should be assessed in various buildings with different occupancy densities. The implications of this study can be useful for future development of this topic not only to enhance the energy efficiency of the VS but also to enable more resiliency and health in buildings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talie T Moghadam
- Intelligent Efficiency Research Group (IERG), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | | | - Ken Bruton
- Intelligent Efficiency Research Group (IERG), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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19
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de Bruyn C, Ben Said F, Meyer N, Soliman M. Research in tourism sustainability: A comprehensive bibliometric analysis from 1990 to 2022. Heliyon 2023; 9:e18874. [PMID: 37636413 PMCID: PMC10447941 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Although multiple bibliometric studies have been conducted to analyze publications on various topics within tourism, little attention has been dedicated to systematically analyzing scholarly production on the topic of tourism sustainability. Consequently, this paper aims to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric and systematic review of tourism sustainability. The collected data include 6326 publications retrieved from the Scopus database. The bibliometric technique consists of two major analyses: one on the domain (levels of analysis) and one on knowledge structures. The results indicated a remarkable evolution of tourism sustainability research involving authors, sources, and publications on this subject. Several associations and nations made significant contributions to this theme. Moreover, science mapping approaches were used to thoroughly grasp tourism sustainability-related research's social, intellectual, and conceptual structure. By giving in-depth overviews and insights connected to tourism sustainability and its knowledge structures, this review article has various implications for scientific study and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chané de Bruyn
- Centre for Local Economic Development (CENLED), University of Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Natanya Meyer
- DHET-NRF Sarchi Entrepreneurship Education, University of Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mohammad Soliman
- University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Salalah, Oman
- Faculty of Tourism & Hotels, Fayoum University, Egypt
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20
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Zhang Y, Sun F, Huang Z, Song L, Jin S, Chen L. Predicting the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on globalization. JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION 2023; 409:137173. [PMID: 37101511 PMCID: PMC10119637 DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2023.137173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly influenced the global economy, international travel, global supply chains, and how people interact, and subsequently affect globalization in coming years. In order to understand the impact of COVID-19 on globalization and provide potential guidance to policymakers, the present study predicted the globalization level of the world average and 14 specific countries in scenarios with and without COVID-19 based on a new Composite Indicator method which contains 15 indicators. Our results revealed that the world average globalization level is expected to decrease from 2017 to 2025 under the scenario without COVID-19 by -5.99%, while the decrease of globalization under the COVID-19 scenario is predicted to reach -4.76% in 2025. This finding implies that the impact of COVID-19 on globalization will not be as severe as expected in 2025. Nevertheless, the downward trend of globalization without COVID-19 is due to the decline of the Environmental indicators, whereas the decline under the COVID-19 scenario is attributed to Economic aspects (almost -50%). The impact of COVID-19 on globalization varies across individual countries. Among the countries investigated, COVID-19 had a positive impact on the globalization of Japan, Australia, the United States, the Russian Federation, Brazil, India and Togo. In contrast, the globalization in the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Qatar, Egypt, China and Gabon are expected to decrease. The variation of impact induced by COVID-19 on those countries is attributed to the weighting of economic, environmental and political aspects of globalization is different across these countries. Our results can help governments take suitable measures to balance economic, environmental and political policies, which may better support their decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- Shenzhen Institute of Sustainable Development, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Shenzhen Academy of Environmental Sciences, Shenzhen, 518001, China
| | - Fangfang Sun
- Shenzhen Academy of Environmental Sciences, Shenzhen, 518001, China
| | - Zhiqiu Huang
- Shenzhen Maritime Safety Administration, Shenzhen, 519032, China
| | - Lan Song
- Shenzhen Institute of Sustainable Development, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Shufang Jin
- Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Long Chen
- Shenzhen Academy of Environmental Sciences, Shenzhen, 518001, China
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21
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Ji L, Sun Y, Liu J, Chiu YH. Analysis of the circular economy efficiency of China's industrial wastewater and solid waste - based on a comparison before and after the 13th Five-Year Plan. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 881:163435. [PMID: 37061050 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The circular economy has been incorporated into China's Five-Year Plan as an important policy tool for sustainable development with the aim of resolving the conflicts among economic growth, energy shortages, and environmental pollution. This research introduces industrial waste emission and recycling indicators into the window two-stage DDF recycle model, explores industrial circular economy efficiency in 30 provinces of China from 2011 to 2019 in the two stages of production and recycle, and focuses on efficiency improvement and stability during the 13th Five-Year Plan period. The results show the following. (1) During the study period, especially during the 13th Five-Year Plan, the circular economy efficiency in most provinces is positively improved, and its improvement is more significant in the central and western provinces. (2) Production stage efficiency is higher than recycle stage efficiency. Whether measured in the overall process, the production stage, or the recycle stage. In mean efficiency, the east is better than the central, and the west is the worst. (3) In terms of efficiency stability during the policy period, the central is the most stable, the east is the second most stable, and the west is the least stable. Shanghai and Tianjin present high efficiency and high stability; Zhejiang, Anhui, and Qinghai present high efficiency, but low stability; and Ningxia, Yunnan, and Xinjiang perform poorly in terms of efficiency values and stability. (4) Each province could adapt to its own situation, accelerate the adjustment of the industrial structure, optimize the energy consumption structure, and improve the overall resource utilization efficiency and recycling efficiency. The government could tilt the resource layout towards provinces with development difficulties, and meanwhile promote efficient development of recycling policies with dividends that address regional imbalances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Ji
- School of Business, Nanjing Normal University, No. 1 Wenyuan Road, Jiangsu 210046, PR China.
| | - Yanan Sun
- School of Economics and Management, Nantong University, No. 9 Seyuan Road, Jiangsu 226019, PR China.
| | - Jiawei Liu
- School of Business and Economics, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HV Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | - Yung-Ho Chiu
- Department of Economics, Soochow University, No. 56, Kueiyang St., Sec. 1, Taipei 100, Taiwan.
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22
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Soares AL, Buttigieg SC, Bak B, McFadden S, Hughes C, McClure P, Couto JG, Bravo I. A Review of the Applicability of Current Green Practices in Healthcare Facilities. Int J Health Policy Manag 2023; 12:6947. [PMID: 37579377 PMCID: PMC10461902 DOI: 10.34172/ijhpm.2023.6947] [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: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circular economy (CE) has raised great interest as a concept and as a development model worldwide. This concept aims to provide a substitute for the linear economic model, which was based on production and consumption, continuous growth, and resources depletion. CE allows a greener economy with sustainable development and promotes more balanced societies. The healthcare sector is a major contributor to the climate crisis, with a carbon footprint representing 4.4% of global net emissions. It is thus essential to rethink the applicability of CE in healthcare. METHODS We conducted a scoping review guided by the Arksey and O'Malley methodological framework and utilised PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) checklist. A systematic search from MEDLINE complete, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases published between 1992 and 2022. RESULTS Through database searching a total of 1018 records were identified and 475 duplicates were removed. From the total search, 543 articles were screened by title/abstract according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. After screening, 38 full-text articles were selected and assessed for eligibility. Forty-seven additional records were also identified through other sources and screened for eligibility. Other sources included: 12 articles from snowballing of previous papers; 9 articles following peer-reviewers suggestions; 19 reports from relevant organisations in CE and healthcare; two webpage, and one book. CONCLUSION Specific areas were identified where hospitals could reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and consequently their negative environmental impact, namely through waste management, energy, water, transportation/travel, hospital design, food optimisation, green procurement, and behaviour. Also, lack of staff awareness and knowledge of the environmental impact of healthcare, and hospitals sustainability were identified as major contributors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Luísa Soares
- Medical Physics Service, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sandra C. Buttigieg
- Department of Health Systems Management and Leadership, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
| | - Bartosz Bak
- Radiotherapy Department II, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznan, Poland
- Department of Electroradiology, University of Medical Science, Poznan, Poland
| | - Sonya McFadden
- Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Ulster University, Newtownabbey, UK
| | - Ciara Hughes
- Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Ulster University, Newtownabbey, UK
| | - Patricia McClure
- Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Ulster University, Newtownabbey, UK
| | - Jose Guilherme Couto
- Radiography Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
| | - Isabel Bravo
- Medical Physics and Radiobiology Group, Research Center (IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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23
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Paul A, Shukla N, Trianni A. Modelling supply chain sustainability challenges in the food processing sector amid the COVID-19 outbreak. SOCIO-ECONOMIC PLANNING SCIENCES 2023; 87:101535. [PMID: 36777894 PMCID: PMC9899701 DOI: 10.1016/j.seps.2023.101535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The recent COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted most businesses and their supply chains. Due to the negative impacts of COVID-19, businesses have been facing numerous challenges. Among them, sustainability challenges are critical for any supply chain. In the literature, several studies have discussed the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on supply chains; however, there is a significant research gap in analysing supply chain sustainability challenges amid the COVID-19 outbreak in a particular context. To fill this research gap, this study aims to develop a systematic approach to identifying and analysing COVID-19 outbreak-related supply chain sustainability challenges in the context of the Australian food processing sector. To achieve the aims, this paper develops a mixed-method approach consisting of both qualitative and quantitative techniques, namely online survey and the Best-Worst method. From the online survey among experts from the Australian food processing sector, 22 sustainability challenges were finalised and categorised into four categories, namely, economic, environmental, social and ethical, and operational challenges. The empirical findings from the exploratory investigation reveal that increased food processing cost, lack of transparency and traceability, increase in price of raw materials, lack of capital and physical resources, and spread of fake information are the top five sustainability challenges to the Australian food processing sector due to the impacts of the COVID-19 outbreak. The findings of this study will help decision-makers, practitioners, and policymakers by developing the policies, guidelines, and strategies to overcome the most impactful sustainability challenges to ensure sustainable recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ananna Paul
- Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nagesh Shukla
- Department of Business Strategy and Innovation, Griffith Business School, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Andrea Trianni
- School of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and IT, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
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Feiferytė-Skirienė A, Stasiškienė Ž. Measuring economic crises impact transitioning to a circular economy. ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY 2023:1-25. [PMID: 37362983 PMCID: PMC10202746 DOI: 10.1007/s10668-023-03367-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Increasing global concern about climate change and the circular economy have successfully established itselves in international and national policies over the last decade, with the aim of reshaping the production and consumer behavior. The circular economy is one of the core pillars of European Union policy and its success depends on the energy efficiency, reducing production costs, and maintaining employment levels by ensuring continuous strong economic independency of the region. While crises are unavoidable and continue to appear, this paper aims to project the impact of any crisis on sustainability transitions using data analysis of the Global Financial crisis from 2008 to 2009 and discuss how the success of the circular economy implementation and environmental policies could be affected. The paper notes that the global financial crisis of 2008-2009 had a short-term positive impact on environmental degradation and that economic interests overshadowed environmental goals. Due to the recent events of the ongoing Russia and Ukraine war, COVID-19 societal and industrial behavior has shifted from sustainable to linear and has taken a step backward in reducing environmental pollution and achieving Sustainable Development Goals. Analysis of already present data and the context of the 2008-2009 global financial crisis, reviewing of COVID-19 impact on the global economy, health sector, and environmental policies allows us to predict the consequences, as it relates to the future of circular economy policy. Supplementary information The online version contains supplementary material available at (10.1007/s10668-023-03367-x).
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Affiliation(s)
- Akvilė Feiferytė-Skirienė
- Institute of Environmental Engineering, Kaunas University of Technology, Gedimino Str. 50, 44239 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Žaneta Stasiškienė
- Institute of Environmental Engineering, Kaunas University of Technology, Gedimino Str. 50, 44239 Kaunas, Lithuania
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Wu X, Lu Y, Jiang B. Built environment factors moderate pandemic fatigue in social distance during the COVID-19 pandemic: A nationwide longitudinal study in the United States. LANDSCAPE AND URBAN PLANNING 2023; 233:104690. [PMID: 36687504 PMCID: PMC9842632 DOI: 10.1016/j.landurbplan.2023.104690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) remain some of the most effective measures for coping with the ever-changing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Pandemic fatigue, which manifests as the declined willingness to follow the recommended protective behaviors (e.g., keeping social distance policies, wearing masks), has commanded increasing attention from researchers and policymakers after the prolonged NPIs and COVID-19 worldwide. However, long-term changes in pandemic fatigue are not well understood, especially amidst the ever-changing pandemic landscape. Built environment factors have been shown to positively affect mental and physical health, but it is still unclear whether built environments can moderate pandemic fatigue. In this study, we used Google mobility data to investigate longitudinal trends of pandemic fatigue in social distance since the onset of NPIs enforcement in the United States. The results indicated that pandemic fatigue continuously worsened over nearly two years of NPIs implementation, and a sharp increase occurred after the vaccination program began. Additionally, we detected a significant moderation effect of greenspace and urbanicity levels on pandemic fatigue. People living in areas with high levels of greenness or urbanicity experienced lower levels of pandemic fatigue. These findings not only shed new light on the effects of greenness and urbanicity on COVID-19 pandemic fatigue, but also provide evidence for developing more tailored and effective strategies to cope with pandemic fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueying Wu
- Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yi Lu
- Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Bin Jiang
- Urban Environments and Human Health Lab, HKUrbanLabs, Faculty of Architecture, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Division of Landscape Architecture, Department of Architecture, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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26
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Amza CG, Zapciu A, Baciu F, Radu C. Effect of UV-C Radiation on 3D Printed ABS-PC Polymers. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15081966. [PMID: 37112113 PMCID: PMC10141134 DOI: 10.3390/polym15081966] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
During the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare facilities experienced severe shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE) and other medical supplies. Employing 3D printing to rapidly fabricate functional parts and equipment was one of the emergency solutions used to tackle these shortages. Using ultraviolet light in the UV-C band (wavelengths of 200 nm to 280 nm) might prove useful in sterilizing 3D printed parts, enabling their reusability. Most polymers, however, degrade under UV-C radiation, so it becomes necessary to determine what 3D printing materials can withstand the conditions found during medical equipment sterilization with UV-C. This paper analyzes the effect of accelerated aging through prolonged exposure to UV-C on the mechanical properties of parts 3D printed from a polycarbonate and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene polymer (ABS-PC). Samples 3D printed using a material extrusion process (MEX) went through a 24-h UV-C exposure aging cycle and then were tested versus a control group for changes in tensile strength, compressive strength and some selected material creep characteristics. Testing showed minimal mechanical property degradation following the irradiation procedure, with tensile strength being statistically the same for irradiated parts as those in the control group. Irradiated parts showed small losses in stiffness (5.2%) and compressive strength (6.5%). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed in order to assess if any changes occurred in the material structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catalin Gheorghe Amza
- Faculty of Industrial Engineering and Robotics, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Aurelian Zapciu
- Faculty of Industrial Engineering and Robotics, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Florin Baciu
- Faculty of Industrial Engineering and Robotics, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Constantin Radu
- Faculty of Industrial Engineering and Robotics, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
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27
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Mbachu CO, Ekenna AC, Agbawodikeizu UP, Onwujekwe O. Role and use of evidence in health system response to COVID-19 in Nigeria: a mixed method study. Pan Afr Med J 2023; 44:191. [PMID: 37484579 PMCID: PMC10362686 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2023.44.191.38990] [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: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction evidence-based decision-making in health is an aspiration needed to effectively respond to current outbreaks and prepare for future occurrences. This paper examines the roles and use of evidence in health systems response to COVID-19 in Nigeria. Methods this was a mixed method study comprising nine key informant interviews and rapid review of 126 official online documents, journal articles and media reports published from December 2019 to December 2020 with a national and sub-national focus. Key informants were drawn from the government agencies that were involved in making or implementing decisions on the health sector response to COVID-19. Data collection was performed by three researchers. Thematic analysis and narrative synthesis of data was done. Results various forms of evidence were used to make decisions on Nigeria´s health system response to COVID-19, and these are broadly classified into three, namely, i) lessons learned from past experiences such as community engagement activities, early recognition of risks and deployment of non-pharmaceutical pandemic control measures, ii) proven interventions with contextual relevance like the emphasis on hand hygiene education for health workers, and iii) risk assessment and situation analysis reports like adopting a multi-sector response to COVID-19 control, expanding COVID-19 diagnostic laboratories to new sites across the country, and relax lockdown restrictions while maintaining key limitations to curb a spike in COVID-19 cases. Conclusion Nigeria´s health system response to COVID-19 upheld the use of evidence in making critical decisions on the prevention and control of the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adanma Chidinma Ekenna
- Health Policy Research Group, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Uju Patricia Agbawodikeizu
- Health Policy Research Group, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
- Department of Social Work, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
| | - Obinna Onwujekwe
- Health Policy Research Group, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
- Department of Health Administration and Management, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
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Chew X, Khaw KW, Alnoor A, Ferasso M, Al Halbusi H, Muhsen YR. Circular economy of medical waste: novel intelligent medical waste management framework based on extension linear Diophantine fuzzy FDOSM and neural network approach. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:60473-60499. [PMID: 37036648 PMCID: PMC10088637 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26677-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
Environmental pollution has been a major concern for researchers and policymakers. A number of studies have been conducted to enquire the causes of environmental pollution which suggested numerous policies and techniques as remedial measures. One such major source of environmental pollution, as reported by previous studies, has been the garbage resulting from disposed hospital wastes. The recent outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted into mass generation of medical waste which seems to have further deteriorated the issue of environmental pollution. This necessitates active attention from both the researchers and policymakers for effective management of medical waste to prevent the harm to environment and human health. The issue of medical waste management is more important for countries lacking sophisticated medical infrastructure. Accordingly, the purpose of this study is to propose a novel application for identification and classification of 10 hospitals in Iraq which generated more medical waste during the COVID-19 pandemic than others in order to address the issue more effectively. We used the Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) method to this end. We integrated MCDM with other techniques including the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), linear Diophantine fuzzy set decision by opinion score method (LDFN-FDOSM), and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) analysis to generate more robust results. We classified medical waste into five categories, i.e., general waste, sharp waste, pharmaceutical waste, infectious waste, and pathological waste. We consulted 313 experts to help in identifying the best and the worst medical waste management technique within the perspectives of circular economy using the neural network approach. The findings revealed that incineration technique, microwave technique, pyrolysis technique, autoclave chemical technique, vaporized hydrogen peroxide, dry heat, ozone, and ultraviolet light were the most effective methods to dispose of medical waste during the pandemic. Additionally, ozone was identified as the most suitable technique among all to serve the purpose of circular economy of medical waste. We conclude by discussing the practical implications to guide governments and policy makers to benefit from the circular economy of medical waste to turn pollutant hospitals into sustainable ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- XinYing Chew
- School of Computer Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Khai Wah Khaw
- School of Management, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Alhamzah Alnoor
- Management Technical College, Southern Technical University, Basrah, Iraq.
| | - Marcos Ferasso
- Economics and Business Sciences Department, Universidade Autónoma de Lisboa, 1169-023, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Hussam Al Halbusi
- Department of Management, Ahmed Bin Mohammad Military College, Doha, Qatar
| | - Yousif Raad Muhsen
- Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Seri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia
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29
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de Oliveira LK, de Oliveira IK, Bertoncini BV, Sousa LS, dos Santos Junior JL. Determining the Impacts of COVID-19 on Urban Deliveries in the Metropolitan Region of Belo Horizonte Using Spatial Analysis. TRANSPORTATION RESEARCH RECORD 2023; 2677:408-431. [PMID: 37153170 PMCID: PMC10152228 DOI: 10.1177/03611981221078846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed lifestyles, with consequent impacts on urban freight movements. This paper analyzes the impacts of COVID-19 on urban deliveries in the Belo Horizonte Metropolitan Region, Brazil. The Lee index and the Local Indicator of Spatial Association were calculated using data on urban deliveries (retail and home deliveries) and COVID-19 cases. The results confirmed the negative impacts on retail deliveries and the positive impacts on home deliveries. The spatial analysis demonstrated that the most interconnected cities presented more similar patterns. At the beginning of the pandemic, consumers were considerably concerned about the virus spread, and the changes in consumption behavior were slow. The findings suggest the importance of alternative strategies to traditional retail. In addition, the local infrastructure should adapt to the increased demand for home deliveries during pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leise Kelli de Oliveira
- Department of Transportation and Geotechnical Engineering, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Civil Engineering Postgraduate Program, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
| | | | | | - Livia Sampaio Sousa
- Department of Transportation Engineering, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
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30
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Rejeb A, Rejeb K, Appolloni A, Treiblmaier H, Iranmanesh M. Circular Economy Research in the COVID-19 Era: a Review and the Road Ahead. CIRCULAR ECONOMY AND SUSTAINABILITY 2023:1-31. [PMID: 37360377 PMCID: PMC10042431 DOI: 10.1007/s43615-023-00265-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
The onset of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in a major crisis that has severely impacted numerous economic, environmental, and social aspects of human life. During the pandemic, the potential of the circular economy (CE) has gained increasing attention as a prospective remedy for numerous sustainability problems. This systematic literature review charts CE research in the COVID-19 era. To this end, 160 journal articles were selected from the Scopus database. The performance indicators of the literature were determined and described through a bibliometric analysis. Moreover, the conceptual structure of CE research was identified via a keyword co-occurrence network. Based on bibliographic coupling, the focus of CE research in the COVID-19 era revolves mainly around five thematic areas, including: (1) waste management; (2) digitalization and sustainable supply chain management; (3) the impact of COVID-19 on food systems; (4) sustainable development goals, smart cities, and bioeconomy; and (5) closed-loop supply chains. Overall, this review contributes to enriching the literature by determining the main thematic areas and future research directions that can help to advance the transition to the CE and reduce the impact of COVID-19 and similar disasters in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abderahman Rejeb
- Department of Management and Law, Faculty of Economics, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Columbia, 2, Rome, 00133 Italy
| | - Karim Rejeb
- Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte, University of Carthage, Zarzouna, Bizerte 7021 Tunisia
| | - Andrea Appolloni
- Department of Management and Law, Faculty of Economics, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Columbia, 2, Rome, 00133 Italy
- School of Management, Cranfield University, MK43 0AL Cranfield, Bedford, UK
| | - Horst Treiblmaier
- School of International Management, Modul University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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31
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Yao P, Fan H, Wu Q, Ouyang J, Li K. Compound impact of COVID-19, economy and climate on the spatial distribution of global agriculture and food security. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 880:163105. [PMID: 36972878 PMCID: PMC10039698 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to unfold around the world, the per unit area yield of the world's three major crops (i.e. maize, rice and wheat) decreased simultaneously for the first time in 20 years, and nearly 2.37 billion people faced food insecurity in 2020. Around 119-124 million people were pushed back into extreme poverty. Drought is one of the natural hazards that mostly affect agricultural production, and 2020 is one of the three warmest years on record. When the pandemic, economic recession and extreme climate change occur simultaneously, food crisis will often be exacerbated. Due to the limited research on the geographic modelling of crops and food security at the country level, we investigated the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic (COVID-19 incidence and mortality rate), economic (GDP and per capita GDP), climate (temperature change and drought), and their compound effects on three crop yields and food security in the world. On the basis of verifying the spatial autocorrelation, we used the global ordinary least squares model to select the explanatory variables. Then, geographically weighted regression (GWR) and multi-scale GWR (MGWR), were utilised to explore spatial non-stationary relationships. Results indicated that the MGWR was more efficient than the traditional GWR. On the whole, per capita GDP was the most important explanatory variable for most countries. However, the direct threats of COVID-19, temperature change and drought on crops and food security were small and localised. This study is the first to utilise advanced spatial methods to analyse the impacts of natural and human disasters on agriculture and food security in various countries, which can serve as a geographical guide for the World Food Organization, other relief agencies and policymakers to conduct food aid, health and medical assistance, financial support, climate change policy formulation, and anti-epidemic policy formulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiwen Yao
- State Key Lab for Information Engineering in Surveying, Mapping and Remote Sensing, Wuhan University, 129 Luoyu Road, Wuhan 430079, China.
| | - Hong Fan
- State Key Lab for Information Engineering in Surveying, Mapping and Remote Sensing, Wuhan University, 129 Luoyu Road, Wuhan 430079, China.
| | - Qilong Wu
- School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Wuhan University, 129 Luoyu Road, Wuhan 430079, China.
| | - Jiani Ouyang
- State Key Lab for Information Engineering in Surveying, Mapping and Remote Sensing, Wuhan University, 129 Luoyu Road, Wuhan 430079, China.
| | - Kairui Li
- State Key Lab for Information Engineering in Surveying, Mapping and Remote Sensing, Wuhan University, 129 Luoyu Road, Wuhan 430079, China.
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Chakraborty C, Saha A, Bhattacharya M, Dhama K, Agoramoorthy G. Natural selection of the D614G mutation in SARS-CoV-2 Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant and its subvariants. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 31:437-439. [PMID: 36817724 PMCID: PMC9923361 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chiranjib Chakraborty
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Adamas University, Kolkata, West Bengal 700126, India,Corresponding author: Chiranjib Chakraborty, PhD, Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Adamas University, Kolkata, West Bengal 700126, India
| | - Abinit Saha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Adamas University, Kolkata, West Bengal 700126, India
| | - Manojit Bhattacharya
- Department of Zoology, Fakir Mohan University, Vyasa Vihar, Balasore 756020, Odisha, India
| | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly 243122, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Govindasamy Agoramoorthy
- College of Pharmacy and Health Care, Tajen University, Yanpu, Pingtung 907, Taiwan,Corresponding author: Govindasamy Agoramoorthy, PhD, College of Pharmacy and Health Care, Tajen University, Yanpu, Pingtung 907, Taiwan
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Ardekani ZF, Sobhani SMJ, Barbosa MW, de Sousa PR. Transition to a sustainable food supply chain during disruptions: A study on the Brazilian food companies in the Covid-19 era. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PRODUCTION ECONOMICS 2023; 257:108782. [PMID: 36687333 PMCID: PMC9837209 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpe.2023.108782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought negative impacts to global supply chains, in particular to the agricultural sector. Although these companies have been developing programs to mitigate the impacts caused by COVID-19, researchers have been worried about a possible weakening of the adoption of sustainable initiatives due to a focus on dealing with the consequences of the pandemic. Grounded on the Resource Orchestration Theory, the goal of this study was to assess the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak on sustainable (environmental, social, and economic) performance in the context of agri-food supply chains. To do so, a questionnaire survey was used to collect data from 349 different medium and large agri-food companies in Brazil. Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Squares technique. This study has found out that, under the impacts arising from COVID-19 pandemic (1) supply management and transportation and logistics management had a positive impact on food supply chains' sustainable performance; (2) the effects of relationship management and supply chain wide impact management were found to be negative on sustainable performance; and (3) the effects of demand and production management on sustainable performance were not considered significant. We propose a framework that clearly represents the relationship between the disrupted supply chain areas and sustainable performance through the development of orchestration capabilities. By knowing which kinds of impacts produce the most significant effects on sustainable performance, policy makers and managers will be able to make decisions and take actions to avoid negative effects and to improve firms' sustainable performance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Seyed Mohammad Javad Sobhani
- Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University of Khuzestan, Mollasani, Iran
| | | | - Paulo Renato de Sousa
- Fundação Dom Cabral, Avenida Princesa Diana 760 Alphaville Lagoa dos Ingleses, Nova Lima, 34 018 006, Brazil
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34
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Alva Ferrari A, Bogner K, Palacio V, Crisostomo D, Seeber N, Ebersberger B. The COVID-19 pandemic as a window of opportunity for more sustainable and circular supply chains. CLEANER LOGISTICS AND SUPPLY CHAIN 2023. [PMCID: PMC9969730 DOI: 10.1016/j.clscn.2023.100101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is a microcosm for future challenges and crises. The greatest of these challenges is the climate crisis and the potential collapse of our Earth system. However, crises may also provide an opportunity to transition to a more sustainable and resilient future. In our study, we qualitatively analyze statements of a heterogeneous group of 46 experts from academia, industry, government, and organized civil society to explore inasmuch experts perceived the pandemic as a window of opportunity for more sustainable SCs and what they consider opportunities, challenges, and necessary actions for more sustainable circular SCs. Our study contributes to current and future studies on the opportunities in times of crisis and the actions needed to overcome SC vulnerabilities and increase the resiliency, circularity, and sustainability of SCs.
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35
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Hertz-Palmor N, Ruppin S, Matalon N, Mosheva M, Dorman-Ilan S, Serur Y, Avinir A, Mekori-Domachevsky E, Hasson-Ohayon I, Gross R, Gothelf D, Pessach IM. A 16-month longitudinal investigation of risk and protective factors for mental health outcomes throughout three national lockdowns and a mass vaccination campaign: Evidence from a weighted Israeli sample during COVID-19. Psychiatry Res 2023; 323:115119. [PMID: 36881950 PMCID: PMC9968478 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 is an ongoing global crisis, with a multitude of factors that affect mental health worldwide. We explored potential predictors for the emergence and maintenance of depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in the general population in Israel. METHODS Across the span of 16 months, 2478 people completed a repeated self-report survey which inquired psychiatric symptoms and pandemic related stress factors (PRSF). We applied mixed-effects models to assess how each stressor contributes to depression, anxiety and PTSS at each time point, and longitudinally assessed participants who completed at least two consecutive surveys (n = 400). We weighted our sample to increase representativeness of the population. RESULTS Fatigue was the strongest predictor for depression, anxiety and PTSS at all time points, and predicted deterioration overtime. Financial concerns associated with depression and anxiety at all time points, and with their deterioration overtime. Health related concerns were uniquely associated with anxiety and PTSS at all time points and their deterioration, but not with depression. Improvement in sense of protection overtime associated with decrease in depression and anxiety. Hesitancy towards vaccination was associated to higher financial concerns and lower sense of protection by the authorities. CONCLUSIONS Our findings accentuate the multitude of risk factors for psychiatric morbidity during COVID-19, and the centrality of fatigue in determining mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nimrod Hertz-Palmor
- The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Division, Edmond and Lily Safra Children Hospital at Sheba Medical Center, Israel; MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Social Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Israel.
| | - Shachar Ruppin
- School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Social Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Noam Matalon
- The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Division, Edmond and Lily Safra Children Hospital at Sheba Medical Center, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Mariela Mosheva
- The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Division, Edmond and Lily Safra Children Hospital at Sheba Medical Center, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Shirel Dorman-Ilan
- The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Division, Edmond and Lily Safra Children Hospital at Sheba Medical Center, Israel
| | - Yaffa Serur
- The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Division, Edmond and Lily Safra Children Hospital at Sheba Medical Center, Israel
| | - Asia Avinir
- The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Division, Edmond and Lily Safra Children Hospital at Sheba Medical Center, Israel
| | - Ehud Mekori-Domachevsky
- The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Division, Edmond and Lily Safra Children Hospital at Sheba Medical Center, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | | | - Raz Gross
- The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Division, Edmond and Lily Safra Children Hospital at Sheba Medical Center, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Doron Gothelf
- The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Division, Edmond and Lily Safra Children Hospital at Sheba Medical Center, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel; Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Itai M Pessach
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel; Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, The Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
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36
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Li H. I'm Offering You My Pain: Priming COVID-19 Salience Increases Everyday Sadism. Psychol Rep 2023:332941231159611. [PMID: 36823028 PMCID: PMC9950809 DOI: 10.1177/00332941231159611] [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] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and its link to the emergence of everyday sadism is a matter of public concern worldwide. However, previous studies are nearly silent regarding the causal relationship between the two variables. We address this gap by theorizing that exposure to information about coronavirus can increase sadistic behavior by inducing state boredom. We conducted three complementary controlled experiments, which comprised multiple participants populations (N = 784, student and community samples) and measurement techniques of sadism, to test our theoretical perspective. Based on self-report measures, Study 1 found that Chinese university students who were exposed to a reminder of COVID-19 exhibited a higher level of everyday sadism than participants in the control condition. Study 2 replicated this finding in a more generalized population. Additionally, results revealed that state boredom mediated this effect. Moving beyond subjective self-report data in Studies 1 and 2, Study 3 assessed a different behavioral operationalization of sadistic tendencies, namely, shredding worms. As expected, priming COVID-19 salience has an immediate, statistically significant influence on sadistic behavior in impactful real-world contexts. Overall, these findings suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic not only has grave effects on economy and society, but has implications for the malevolent side of human nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Li
- Sichuan International Studies University, Chongqing, China
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37
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Yu Z, Meng R, Deng S, Jia L. An open-source handheld spectrometer for colorimetric and fluorescence analyses. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2023; 287:122072. [PMID: 36375287 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2022.122072] [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: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Spectrometers are essential analytical devices for analyzing fluid samples in biological, environmental, and disease diagnostic applications. However, the relatively high cost, the lack of portability, and the requirement for a constant power supply of bulky laboratory instruments limit their on-site applications. Herein, a wireless, cost-effective, open-source, and handheld spectrometer was designed and fabricated to realize the colorimetric and fluorescence analyses. It was built from off-the-shelf electronics utilizing 3D printing technology. The assembled device costs as little as $50. It has an overall dimension of 5 × 5 × 8 cm and an overall weight of only 130 g, which can easily fit in the palm of an adult's hand. It can detect light waves in the 405-690 nm range and transmit the read data to the corresponding SpecAnalysis Android application via Bluetooth. The feasibility of the device was demonstrated by the optical detection of Cu(II), bovine serum albumin, and calf thymus DNA. The sensitivity and detection limits of this device were comparable to those of commercial research-grade spectrophotometers and fluorescence spectrometers. The results suggest that the handheld spectrometer can be applied to detect a variety of substances, not limited to quantitative analysis of a specific individual compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhicheng Yu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Spectral Analysis and Functional Probes, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
| | - Ruidong Meng
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Spectral Analysis and Functional Probes, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
| | - Suqi Deng
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Spectral Analysis and Functional Probes, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
| | - Li Jia
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Spectral Analysis and Functional Probes, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China.
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38
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Broad H, Carey N, Williams DP, Blackburn RAR. Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Chemistry Student and Staff Perceptions of their Learning/Teaching Experience. JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL EDUCATION 2023; 100:664-671. [PMID: 36812108 PMCID: PMC9923438 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jchemed.2c00856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of Leicester introduced a blended teaching model to continue delivery of their undergraduate Chemistry courses in 2020/21. The transition from in-person to blended provided a good opportunity to investigate student engagement in the blended environment, along with the attitudes of faculty members adapting to this mode of delivery. Data from 94 undergraduate students and 13 staff members was collected using surveys, focus groups, and interviews and analyzed using the community of inquiry framework. Analysis of the collected data found that, while some students felt unable to always engage and focus with the remote material, they were pleased with the University's response to the pandemic. Staff members commented on the challenges of gauging student engagement and understanding in synchronous contact sessions because students did not make use of cameras or microphones but praised the array of digital tools available that helped to facilitate some degree of student interaction. This study suggests there is scope for continuation and wider implementation of blended learning environments to provide additional contingency for further disruption to on-campus teaching and to provide new teaching opportunities, and it also presents recommendations as to how to reinforce the community of inquiry presences in blended learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey Broad
- School
of Chemistry, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH, United Kingdom
| | - Niamh Carey
- School
of Chemistry, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH, United Kingdom
| | - Dylan P. Williams
- School
of Chemistry, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH, United Kingdom
- School
of Chemistry, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Richard A. R. Blackburn
- School
of Chemistry, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH, United Kingdom
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Jeyananthan P. Role of different types of RNA molecules in the severity prediction of SARS-CoV-2 patients. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 242:154311. [PMID: 36657221 PMCID: PMC9840815 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is the current threat of the world with enormous number of deceases. As most of the countries have constraints on resources, particularly for intensive care and oxygen, severity prediction with high accuracy is crucial. This prediction will help the medical society in the selection of patients with the need for these constrained resources. Literature shows that using clinical data in this study is the common trend and molecular data is rarely utilized in this prediction. As molecular data carry more disease related information, in this study, three different types of RNA molecules ( lncRNA, miRNA and mRNA) of SARS-COV-2 patients are used to predict the severity stage and treatment stage of those patients. Using seven different machine learning algorithms along with several feature selection techniques shows that in both phenotypes, feature importance selected features provides the best accuracy along with random forest classifier. Further to this, it shows that in the severity stage prediction miRNA and lncRNA give the best performance, and lncRNA data gives the best in treatment stage prediction. As most of the studies related to molecular data uses mRNA data, this is an interesting finding.
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40
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Ranjbari M, Shams Esfandabadi Z, Gautam S, Ferraris A, Scagnelli SD. Waste management beyond the COVID-19 pandemic: Bibliometric and text mining analyses. GONDWANA RESEARCH : INTERNATIONAL GEOSCIENCE JOURNAL 2023; 114:124-137. [PMID: 35153532 PMCID: PMC8816840 DOI: 10.1016/j.gr.2021.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased the demand for personal protective equipment, in particular face masks, thus leading to a huge amount of healthcare waste generated worldwide. Consequently, such an unprecedented amount of newly emerged waste has posed significant challenges to practitioners, policy-makers, and municipal authorities involved in waste management (WM) systems. This research aims at mapping the COVID-19-related scientific production to date in the field of WM. In this vein, the performance indicators of the target literature were analyzed and discussed through conducting a bibliometric analysis. The conceptual structure of COVID-19-related WM research, including seven main research themes, were uncovered and visualized through a text mining analysis as follows: (1) household and food waste, (2) personnel safety and training for waste handling, (3) sustainability and circular economy, (4) personal protective equipment and plastic waste, (5) healthcare waste management practices, (6) wastewater management, and (7) COVID-19 transmission through infectious waste. Finally, a research agenda for WM practices and activities in the post-COVID-19 era was proposed, focusing on the following three identified research gaps: (i) developing a systemic framework to properly manage the pandemic crisis implications for WM practices as a whole, following a systems thinking approach, (ii) building a circular economy model encompassing all activities from the design stage to the implementation stage, and (iii) proposing incentives to effectively involve informal sectors and local capacity in decentralizing municipal waste management, with a specific focus on developing and less-developed countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meisam Ranjbari
- Department of Economics and Statistics "Cognetti de Martiis", University of Turin, Torino, Italy
- ESSCA School of Management, Lyon, France
| | - Zahra Shams Esfandabadi
- Department of Environment, Land and Infrastructure Engineering (DIATI), Politecnico di Torino, Torino, Italy
- Energy Center Lab, Politecnico di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Sneha Gautam
- Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Alberto Ferraris
- Department of Management, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
- Laboratory for International and Regional Economics, Graduate School of Economics and Management, Ural Federal University, Russia
- Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Simone Domenico Scagnelli
- Department of Management, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
- School of Business and Law, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Australia
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41
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Sajid MJ, Khan SAR, Sun Y, Yu Z. The long-term dynamic relationship between communicable disease spread, economic prosperity, greenhouse gas emissions, and government health expenditures: preparing for COVID-19-like pandemics. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:26164-26177. [PMID: 36352073 PMCID: PMC9646471 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-23984-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The spread of communicable diseases, such as COVID-19, has a detrimental effect on our socio-economic structure. In a dynamic log-run world, socio-economic and environmental factors interact to spread communicable diseases. We investigated the long-term interdependence of communicable disease spread, economic prosperity, greenhouse gas emissions, and government health expenditures in India's densely populated economy using a variance error correction (VEC) approach. The VEC model was validated using stationarity, cointegration, autocorrelation, heteroscedasticity, and normality tests. Our impulse response and variance decomposition analyses revealed that economic prosperity (GNI) significantly impacts the spread of communicable diseases, greenhouse gas emissions, government health expenditures, and GNI. Current health expenditures can reduce the need for future increases, and the spread of communicable diseases is detrimental to economic growth. Developing economies should prioritize economic growth and health spending to combat pandemics. Simultaneously, the adverse effects of economic prosperity on environmental degradation should be mitigated through policy incentives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Jawad Sajid
- School of Engineering Management, Xuzhou University of Technology, Xuzhou, 221000, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Syed Abdul Rehman Khan
- School of Engineering Management, Xuzhou University of Technology, Xuzhou, 221000, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Business Administration, ILMA University, Karachi, 75190, Pakistan
| | - Yubo Sun
- School of Engineering Management, Xuzhou University of Technology, Xuzhou, 221000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhang Yu
- Department of Business Administration, ILMA University, Karachi, 75190, Pakistan
- School of Economics and Management, Chang'an University, Xi'an, 710064, China
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42
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Haseli G, Torkayesh AE, Hajiaghaei-Keshteli M, Venghaus S. Sustainable resilient recycling partner selection for urban waste management: Consolidating perspectives of decision-makers and experts. Appl Soft Comput 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.asoc.2023.110120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
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43
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The COVID-19 global crisis and corporate social responsibility. ASIAN JOURNAL OF BUSINESS ETHICS 2023. [PMCID: PMC9842497 DOI: 10.1007/s13520-022-00165-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Calderon M, Gysin G, Gujjar A, McMaster A, King L, Comandé D, Hunter E, Payne B. Bacterial co-infection and antibiotic stewardship in patients with COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:14. [PMID: 36624396 PMCID: PMC9828368 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07942-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Understanding the proportion of patients with COVID-19 who have respiratory bacterial co-infections and the responsible pathogens is important for managing COVID-19 effectively while ensuring responsible antibiotic use. OBJECTIVE To estimate the frequency of bacterial co-infection in COVID-19 hospitalized patients and of antibiotic prescribing during the early pandemic period and to appraise the use of antibiotic stewardship criteria. METHODS Systematic review and meta-analysis was performed using major databases up to May 5, 2021. We included studies that reported proportion/prevalence of bacterial co-infection in hospitalized COVID-19 patients and use of antibiotics. Where available, data on duration and type of antibiotics, adverse events, and any information about antibiotic stewardship policies were also collected. RESULTS We retrieved 6,798 studies and included 85 studies with data from more than 30,000 patients. The overall prevalence of bacterial co-infection was 11% (95% CI 8% to 16%; 70 studies). When only confirmed bacterial co-infections were included the prevalence was 4% (95% CI 3% to 6%; 20 studies). Overall antibiotic use was 60% (95% CI 52% to 68%; 52 studies). Empirical antibiotic use rate was 62% (95% CI 55% to 69%; 11 studies). Few studies described criteria for stopping antibiotics. CONCLUSION There is currently insufficient evidence to support widespread empirical use of antibiotics in most hospitalised patients with COVID-19, as the overall proportion of bacterial co-infection is low. Furthermore, as the use of antibiotics during the study period appears to have been largely empirical, clinical guidelines to promote and support more targeted administration of antibiotics in patients admitted to hospital with COVID-19 are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Calderon
- grid.419334.80000 0004 0641 3236Department of Infection and Tropical Medicine, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Queen Victoria Rd., Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, NE1 4LP UK
| | - Grace Gysin
- grid.1006.70000 0001 0462 7212Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, NE1 7RU UK ,grid.1006.70000 0001 0462 7212School of Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Akash Gujjar
- grid.1006.70000 0001 0462 7212School of Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Ashleigh McMaster
- grid.419334.80000 0004 0641 3236Department of Infection and Tropical Medicine, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Queen Victoria Rd., Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, NE1 4LP UK
| | - Lisa King
- grid.1006.70000 0001 0462 7212School of Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Daniel Comandé
- grid.414661.00000 0004 0439 4692Instituto de Efectividad Clinica y Sanitaria, Emilio Ravignani 2024 (C1414CPV), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ewan Hunter
- grid.419334.80000 0004 0641 3236Department of Infection and Tropical Medicine, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Queen Victoria Rd., Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, NE1 4LP UK
| | - Brendan Payne
- grid.419334.80000 0004 0641 3236Department of Infection and Tropical Medicine, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Queen Victoria Rd., Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, NE1 4LP UK ,grid.1006.70000 0001 0462 7212Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, NE1 7RU UK
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45
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Zhang S, Anser MK, Yao-Ping Peng M, Chen C. Visualizing the sustainable development goals and natural resource utilization for green economic recovery after COVID-19 pandemic. RESOURCES POLICY 2023; 80:103182. [PMID: 36530833 PMCID: PMC9744703 DOI: 10.1016/j.resourpol.2022.103182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
After the COVID-19 outbreak, this study examines the influence of modifications in China's Sustainable Growth Goals (SDGs) and economic development goals on Chinese enterprises' energy conservation and emissions reduction behavior. Meanwhile, the COVID-19 epidemic has erupted, displacing the flimsy traditional techniques. As a result, the post-COVID-19 pandemic emphasizes the need for a long-term sustainable development method compatible with the local and regional environmental systems. The main objective of this study is used as a roadmap to steer the post-COVID-19 pandemic on a sustainable green path by emphasizing sustainable energy strategies to connect in SDG-related efforts. The investigation in this paper begins with examining significant impacts in the energy industry and their impact on progress toward sustainability. The empirical findings that the CO2 emissions reduction objectives in long-term development plans had a considerable impact on energy saving and emissions reduction, lowering energy consumption intensity by 3.33% and carbon emission intensity by 4.23% between 2010 and 2019. Besides, the results and long and short run techniques are built to describe the Sustainable Development Goals interface, with the result revealing that Sustainable Development Goals enhance the green economic recovery performance. Furthermore, this study recommends that the key natural resources and green economic recovery policies to overcome the climate change impacts by COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shikun Zhang
- College of Economics and Management, Shangqiu Normal University, Shangqiu, China
| | - Muhammad Khalid Anser
- Faculty of Business and Management Sciences, The Superior University, Lahore, Pakistan
- Putra Business School, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Seri Kembangan, Malaysia
| | - Michael Yao-Ping Peng
- School of Economics and Trade, Fujian Jiangxia University, Fuzhou, China
- Stamford International University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chunchun Chen
- School of Management, Beijing Union University, Beijing, 100101, China
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46
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Nilashi M, Ali Abumalloh R, Mohd S, Nurlaili Farhana Syed Azhar S, Samad S, Hang Thi H, Alghamdi OA, Alghamdi A. COVID-19 and sustainable development goals: A bibliometric analysis and SWOT analysis in Malaysian context. TELEMATICS AND INFORMATICS 2023; 76:101923. [PMID: 36510580 PMCID: PMC9729173 DOI: 10.1016/j.tele.2022.101923] [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: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 crisis has been a core threat to the lives of billions of individuals over the world. The COVID-19 crisis has influenced governments' aims to meet UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); leading to exceptional conditions of fragility, poverty, job loss, and hunger all over the world. This study aims to investigate the current studies that concentrate on the COVID-19 crisis and its implications on SDGs using a bibliometric analysis approach. The study also deployed the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) approach to perform a systematic analysis of the SDGs, with an emphasis on the COVID-19 crisis impact on Malaysia. The results of the study indicated the unprecedented obstacles faced by countries to meet the UN's SDGs in terms of implementation, coordination, trade-off decisions, and regional issues. The study also stressed the impact of COVID-19 on the implementation of the SDGs focusing on the income, education, and health aspects. The outcomes highlighted the emerging opportunities of the crisis that include an improvement in the health sector, the adoption of online modes in education, the swift digital transformation, and the global focus on environmental issues. Our study demonstrated that, in the post-crisis time, the ratio of citizens in poverty could grow up more than the current national stated values. We stressed the need to design an international agreement to reconsider the implementation of SDGs, among which, are strategic schemes to identify vital and appropriate policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrbakhsh Nilashi
- UCSI Graduate Business School, UCSI University, No. 1 Jalan Menara Gading, UCSI Heights, 56000, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Centre for Global Sustainability Studies (CGSS), Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Penang, Malaysia
| | - Rabab Ali Abumalloh
- Computer Department, Applied College, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box. 1982, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saidatulakmal Mohd
- School of Social Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, USM Penang, Malaysia
| | | | - Sarminah Samad
- Department of Business Administration, College of Business and Administration, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ha Hang Thi
- Institute of Research and Development, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, VietNam
- International School, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, VietNam
| | - O A Alghamdi
- Business Administration Dept., Applied College, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Alghamdi
- Information Systems Dept., College of Computer Science and Information Systems, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia
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Ehsani B, Karimi H, Bakhshi A, Aghsami A, Rabbani M. Designing humanitarian logistics network for managing epidemic outbreaks in disasters using Internet-of-Things. A case study: An earthquake in Salas-e-Babajani city. COMPUTERS & INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING 2023; 175:108821. [PMID: 36506844 PMCID: PMC9720066 DOI: 10.1016/j.cie.2022.108821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Along with the destructive effects of catastrophes throughout the world, the COVID-19 outbreak has intensified the severity of disasters. Although the global aid organizations and philanthropists aim to alleviate the adverse impacts, many employed actions are not impactful in dealing with the epidemic outbreak in disasters. However, there is a gap in controlling the epidemic outbreak in the aftermath of disasters. Therefore, this paper proposes a novel humanitarian location-allocation-inventory model by focusing on preventing COVID-19 outbreaks with IoT-based technology in the response phase of disasters. In this study, IoT-based systems enable aid and health-related organizations to monitor people remotely, suspect detection, surveillance, disinfection, and transportation of relief items. The presented model consists of two stages; the first is defining infected cases, transferring patients to temporary hospitals promptly, and accommodating people in evacuation centers. Next, distribution centers are located in the second stage, and relief items are transferred to temporary hospitals and evacuation centers equally regarding shortage minimization. The model is solved by the LP-metric method and applied in a real case study in Salas-e-Babajani city, Kermanshah province. Then, sensitivity analysis on significant model parameters pertaining to the virus, relief items, and capacity has been conducted. Using an IoT-based system in affected areas and evacuation centers reduces the number of infected cases and relief item's shortages. Finally, several managerial insights are obtained from sensitivity analyses provided for healthcare managers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behdad Ehsani
- School of Industrial & Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Karimi
- School of Industrial & Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Bakhshi
- School of Industrial & Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Aghsami
- School of Industrial & Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
- School of Industrial Engineering, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoud Rabbani
- School of Industrial & Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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48
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Borms L, Brusselaers J, Vrancken KC, Deckmyn S, Marynissen P. Toward resilient organizations after COVID-19: An analysis of circular and less circular companies. RESOURCES, CONSERVATION, AND RECYCLING 2023; 188:106681. [PMID: 36160477 PMCID: PMC9489995 DOI: 10.1016/j.resconrec.2022.106681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic had large repercussions for our economy and organizations. Improved resilience can give organizations the ability to withstand crises and build back better and faster. This article assesses resilience of organizations and sole proprietorships in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic with eight circular strategies as explanatory variables. Furthermore, these eight circular strategies are also used to assess the organizations' and sole proprietorships' resilience outside of the COVID-19 pandemic. This analysis is conducted to explain how circular strategies can help companies and sole proprietorships maintain stability. The analysis was performed by means of a survey conducted between May and June 2020 in Flanders (Belgium), using a sample of 542 respondents. After performing a regression analysis combined with expert opinions collected through interviews, we find that companies and sole proprietorships with a higher circularity score have a significantly higher resilience score during crises and during normal times, compared to less circular companies. Furthermore, we find that the size of the company does not matter during a crisis to adapt and react flexibly, while it is important when there is no crisis. Finally, we argue that it is the combination of different circular strategies which yields to the highest results for the organizations' resilience and we provide policy recommendations based on the most asked support measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lize Borms
- Department of Engineering Management, University of Antwerp, Prinsstraat 13, Antwerp, 2000 Belgium
- Sustainable Materials, VITO, Boeretang 200, Mol, 2400 Belgium
- Institute for Environmental Studies, VU Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1111, HV Amsterdam, 1091 Netherlands
| | - Jan Brusselaers
- Department of Engineering Management, University of Antwerp, Prinsstraat 13, Antwerp, 2000 Belgium
- Sustainable Materials, VITO, Boeretang 200, Mol, 2400 Belgium
- Institute for Environmental Studies, VU Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1111, HV Amsterdam, 1091 Netherlands
| | - Karl C Vrancken
- Sustainable Materials, VITO, Boeretang 200, Mol, 2400 Belgium
- Department of Bio-Engineering, University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, Antwerp, 2020 Belgium
| | - Sam Deckmyn
- Circular Flanders/OVAM, Stationsstraat 110, Mechelen, 2800 Belgium
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Food waste in time of COVID-19: The heterogeneous effects on consumer groups in Italy and the Netherlands. Appetite 2023; 180:106313. [PMID: 36122622 PMCID: PMC9482092 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2022.106313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Since COVID-19 outbreak, States adopted different combinations of measures to restrain its spread that affected individual behaviors and the already fragile local and global food systems. The aim of this research is to contribute to the scientific debate around food systems sustainability through the analysis of behavioral shifts in household food waste drivers, specifically occurring during the recent global pandemic. A survey was developed based on an extended version of the Motivation-Opportunity-Ability (MOA) approach. A representative sample of 3000 respondents in Italy and in the Netherlands (1500 per country) completed this survey in May 2020, while lockdown to mitigate the first wave of COVID-19 outbreak was active in both countries. A cluster analysis based on individual food-waste- related behaviors identified four homogenous groups of consumers in the Italian sample and five in the Dutch sample. The comparative analysis of these groups led to the identification of several communalities in behavioral patterns, both within and between the two countries. Results suggest that in both countries, self-reported quantities of household food waste actually decreased, with a stronger reduction reported by Italian consumers. The MOA approach allowed to explain this perceived reduction as largely depending on the increase of opportunity to dedicate more time - to food-related activities as compared to the pre-COVID-19 period, with positive consequences on food management ability. These findings assist in drafting recommendations for tailored interventions to reduce the amount of domestic food waste and preserve positive behaviors emerged during lockdown, that could be continued in the absence of crisis.
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50
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Yang W, Chen Q, Dao Y, Huang X, Shao W. Ecological Civilization and High-Quality Development: Do Tourism Industry and Technological Progress Affect Ecological Economy Development? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:783. [PMID: 36613107 PMCID: PMC9820014 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The tourism industry is considered a smokeless industry or green economy. Under the circumstances of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, it is essential and urgent to explore whether the tourism industry and technological progress can promote ecological economy development. Based on the panel data of 30 provinces in mainland China from 2007-2019, this paper, for the first time, incorporates the tourism industry, technological progress, and ecological economy development into the analytical framework by constructing a PVAR model. In addition, this paper calculates the indicator weights of each variable using the entropy weighting method. This paper utilizes GMM tests, impulse response analysis, Monte Carlo simulation, and variance decomposition to empirically investigate the dynamic impact mechanism of variables interacting with each other. The conclusions are as follows. First, the tourism industry always contributes positively to ecological economy development, while technological progress can facilitate ecological economy development in the long run rather than in the short term. Second, the tourism industry also positively contributes to technological progress. Third, ecological economy development has a "crowding out effect" on the tourism industry. Fourth, the tourism industry in developed eastern regions has a more powerful impact on ecological economy development than in underdeveloped middle and western regions. Based on the empirical results, we provide practical implications: first, the assessment system of the regional economy should include ecological development indicators; second, the tourism industry should accelerate the use of clean energy and the transformation of green technological innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Yang
- School of Management, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Qiuxia Chen
- School of Management, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Yanyue Dao
- School of Management, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Xiaoting Huang
- School of Management, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
- Yellow River National Strategic Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Weifang Shao
- School of Management, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
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