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Alherimi N, Marva Z, Hamarsheh K, Alzaaterh A. Employees' pro-environmental behavior in an organization: a case study in the UAE. Sci Rep 2024; 14:15371. [PMID: 38965330 PMCID: PMC11224275 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-66047-4] [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: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigates the factors influencing employees' pro-environmental behavior (PEB) within organizations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a nation with a strong policy focus on sustainability. Utilizing a questionnaire-based survey of 146 employees in an automotive division of a UAE company and structural equation modeling (SEM), the research examines the impact of green entrepreneurial orientation, green leadership, environmental commitment, and Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) on employees' willingness to engage in eco-friendly practices at work. The findings reveal that GHRM and green leadership significantly influence employees' green entrepreneurial orientation, which in turn, alongside environmental commitment, positively impacts PEB. These results emphasize the importance of integrating sustainability into organizational culture, leadership, and human resource practices to foster a workforce that actively participates in environmental initiatives, thereby contributing to the development of sustainable communities and enhancing stakeholder engagement. The study provides valuable insights into the specific factors that drive PEB in the UAE context, where national policies prioritize sustainability, highlighting that the importance of implementing green practices and promoting a supportive environment encourages employees and stakeholders to embrace environmental sustainability. The research also sheds light on the role of green entrepreneurial orientation, suggesting that empowering employees to develop innovative environmental solutions can be a key driver of PEB. The SEM analysis also confirmed the positive impact of GHRM and green leadership on green entrepreneurial orientation. Additionally, green entrepreneurial orientation and environmental commitment were found to significantly influence PEB. These results have practical implications for organizations in the UAE and beyond, emphasizing that by integrating eco-friendly practices and fostering stakeholder engagement, organizations can enhance their environmental performance, strengthen their reputation, and attract environmentally conscious customers and employees, contributing to the development of sustainable communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadin Alherimi
- Department of Industrial Engineering, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Zeki Marva
- Department of Industrial Engineering, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Khalid Hamarsheh
- Department of Industrial Engineering, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Ayman Alzaaterh
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE.
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2
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Soylar P, Öztürk FÖ, Sönmez S. Coronavirus-related health literacy level of Turkish adults: psychometric properties of the scale. Health Promot Int 2024; 39:daae057. [PMID: 38902984 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daae057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
An adequate level of health literacy enables people to adopt protective behaviors to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. Validated instruments are desired to assess such reactions. This study aims to determine the level of health literacy and validity and reliability of the Coronavirus-Related Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLS-COVID-Q22) adapted to Turkish. The present study was carried out with 452 participants in Turkey using an online survey. The scale was translated from English to Turkish using the back-translation technique. The cultural adaptation was outlined in the context of establishing the validity and reliability of the instruments. A coronavirus-related health literacy measure was validated (HLS-COVID-Q22) for the Turkish population through exploratory factorial analysis, followed by a confirmatory factorial analysis. The coronavirus-related health literacy level of the participants was found to be 2.92 (± 0.51). Cronbach's alpha internal consistency coefficient was found to be 0.95. A four-factor solution was confirmed with eigenvalues > 1.0, suggesting a four-factor solution and explaining 68.84% of the total variance. It was determined that the χ2/df and root mean square residual, root mean square error of approximation and comparative fit index values in the last model had a good fit and that the normed fit index, goodness-of-fit index and adjusted goodness-of-fit index values were acceptable. The coronavirus-related health literacy level of Turkish adults was moderate. HLS-COVID-Q22 was a reliable and valid instrument for measuring coronavirus-related health literacy in the Turkish population. Promoting population-based health literacy and making decisions on accurate and reliable information are important in coping with the epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pınar Soylar
- Health Sciences Faculty, Department of Nursing, Fırat University, Elazig, Turkey
| | | | - Sibel Sönmez
- Department of Elementary and Early Childhood Education, Ege University, Bornova Kampüsü Bornova/İzmir, Turkey
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3
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Heydari A, Abbasianjahromi H. Evaluating the resilience of residential buildings during a pandemic with a sustainable construction approach. Heliyon 2024; 10:e31006. [PMID: 38803988 PMCID: PMC11128871 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31006] [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: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has been a catastrophic event that has affected all aspects of human life worldwide. Due to the high genetic mutations of the virus, there has been a prolonged search for definitive therapeutic discovery, leading to extended periods of home quarantine. As a result, homes have become multipurpose spaces for work, education, sports, and other daily activities. Given the importance of residential buildings as the first line of defense against possible future pandemics, a model has been proposed to assess their readiness to handle pandemics using a sustainable development approach. This study investigates the most crucial criteria for evaluating residential buildings and applies them in a Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) process. The final evaluation model is presented using the SWARA and COCOSO methods, along with a set of criteria selected and weighted by experts. The study shows that the criteria related to health and safety are more critical than other sectors. Buildings that meet the standards of this group better are likely to have a higher score.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Heydari
- Master of Engineering and Construction Management from Tehran azad University of Science and Research, Tehran, 1476656581, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Abbasianjahromi
- Faculty of Civil Engineering, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran Province, Tehran, Mirdamad Blvd, No. 470, 19697-64499, Iran
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de Oliveira FES, Júnior HM, Trezena S, da Silveira DMML, de Oliveira LKS, de Oliveira AGN, Fagundes MEV, Brito MFSF, Dias VO, Martelli DRB. Generalized anxiety disorder and associated factors in primary health care workers in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Work 2024; 77:687-696. [PMID: 37742686 DOI: 10.3233/wor-230160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic had direct and indirect impacts on public health, also affecting the mental health of the population. OBJECTIVE To analyze symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and associated factors, in primary health care (PHC) professionals. METHODS Cross-sectional and analytical study conducted with professionals who work in the Primary Health Care (PHC) of the Northern health macro-region of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Data collection was carried out through an online, self-administered questionnaire, made available from August 27, 2021, to October 30, 2021 using the Google Forms tool. The questionnaire included sociodemographic questions as well as questions related to the history of anxiety and work during the pandemic. To assess anxiety symptoms, the General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) instrument was used. Data treatment consisted of descriptive analysis of the variables, bivariate analysis followed by multivariate Poisson Regression with robust variance. RESULTS 702 health professionals participated in the study and the general prevalence of GAD was 32.2%. Current anxiety symptoms were self-reported by 37.6% of the participants. In the final model, the associated factors identified were: female sex (PR = 1.82; 95% CI = 1.17-2.84; p = 0.007), previous symptoms (PR = 1.58; 95% CI = 1.19-2.10; p = 0.002) and (PR = 2.68; 95% CI = 2.00-3.62; p < 0.001) current self-reported anxiety. CONCLUSION The results show the need to implement actions in mental health promotion and anxiety prevention, through the dissemination of information about mental health care, health education activities, encouraging the adoption of healthy habits and professional monitoring when necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hercilio Martelli Júnior
- Postgraduate Program in Primary Health Care, State University of Montes Claros (Unimontes), Montes Claros, Brazil
| | - Samuel Trezena
- Postgraduate Program in Primary Health Care, State University of Montes Claros (Unimontes), Montes Claros, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Verônica Oliveira Dias
- Postgraduate Program in Primary Health Care, State University of Montes Claros (Unimontes), Montes Claros, Brazil
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Schwab J, Wachinger J, Munana R, Nabiryo M, Sekitoleko I, Cazier J, Ingenhoff R, Favaretti C, Subramonia Pillai V, Weswa I, Wafula J, Emmrich JV, Bärnighausen T, Knauf F, Knauss S, Nalwadda CK, Sudharsanan N, Kalyesubula R, McMahon SA. Design Research to Embed mHealth into a Community-Led Blood Pressure Management System in Uganda: Protocol for a Mixed Methods Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e46614. [PMID: 38032702 PMCID: PMC10722357 DOI: 10.2196/46614] [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: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uncontrolled hypertension is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. In Uganda, such diseases account for approximately 10% of all deaths, with 1 in 5 adults having hypertension (>90% of the hypertensive cases are uncontrolled). Although basic health care in the country is available free of cost at government facilities, regularly accessing medication to control hypertension is difficult because supply chain challenges impede availability. Clients therefore frequently suspend treatment or buy medication individually at private facilities or pharmacies (incurring significant costs). In recent years, mobile health (mHealth) interventions have shown increasing potential in addressing health system challenges in sub-Saharan Africa, but the acceptability, feasibility, and uptake conditions of mobile money approaches to chronic disease management remain understudied. OBJECTIVE This study aims to design and pilot-test a mobile money-based intervention to increase the availability of antihypertensive medication and lower clients' out-of-pocket payments. We will build on existing local approaches and assess the acceptability, feasibility, and uptake of the designed intervention. Furthermore, rather than entering the study setting with a ready-made intervention, this research will place emphasis on gathering applied ethnographic insights early, which can then inform the parameters of the intervention prototype and concurrent trial. METHODS We will conduct a mixed methods study following a human-centered design approach. We will begin by conducting extensive qualitative research with a range of stakeholders (clients; health care providers; religious, cultural, and community leaders; academics; and policy makers at district and national levels) on their perceptions of hypertension management, money-saving systems, and mobile money in the context of health care. Our results will inform the design, iterative adaptation, and implementation of an mHealth-facilitated pooled financing intervention prototype. At study conclusion, the finalized prototype will be evaluated quantitatively via a randomized controlled trial. RESULTS As of August 2023, qualitative data collection, which started in November 2022, is ongoing, with data analysis of the first qualitative interviews underway to inform platform and implementation design. Recruitment for the quantitative part of this study began in August 2023. CONCLUSIONS Our results aim to inform the ongoing discourse on novel and sustainable pathways to facilitate access to medication for the management of hypertension in resource-constrained settings. TRIAL REGISTRATION German registry of clinical trials DRKS00030922; https://drks.de/search/en/trial/DRKS00030922. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/46614.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josephine Schwab
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jonas Wachinger
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Richard Munana
- African Community Center for Social Sustainability, Nakaseke District, Uganda
| | - Maxencia Nabiryo
- Department of Community Health and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Isaac Sekitoleko
- African Community Center for Social Sustainability, Nakaseke District, Uganda
| | | | - Rebecca Ingenhoff
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Caterina Favaretti
- Professorship of Behavioral Science for Disease Prevention and Health Care, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Vasanthi Subramonia Pillai
- Professorship of Behavioral Science for Disease Prevention and Health Care, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ivan Weswa
- African Community Center for Social Sustainability, Nakaseke District, Uganda
| | - John Wafula
- African Community Center for Social Sustainability, Nakaseke District, Uganda
| | - Julius Valentin Emmrich
- mTOMADY gGmbh, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Till Bärnighausen
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Felix Knauf
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Samuel Knauss
- mTOMADY gGmbh, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christine K Nalwadda
- Department of Community Health and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Nikkil Sudharsanan
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Professorship of Behavioral Science for Disease Prevention and Health Care, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Robert Kalyesubula
- African Community Center for Social Sustainability, Nakaseke District, Uganda
- Department of Physiology, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Shannon A McMahon
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
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Yang X, Chen C, Geng K, Jia X, Si F, Lu X, Zhang W, Du S, Zhang X, Guo W, Yin Z. Organ donation decision-making in ICU patients: from the perspectives of organ coordinators and physicians in China - a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e075433. [PMID: 37914298 PMCID: PMC10626822 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-075433] [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: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Intensive care unit (ICU) dying patients are the most important source of organ donation. This study explores the reasons affecting organ donation in the Chinese sociocultural context from the perspectives of coordinators and physicians, and further seeks countermeasures to alleviate the shortage of organs. DESIGN AND SETTING Semistructured interviews conducted in a large tertiary hospital in China. PARTICIPANTS AND METHOD 15 respondents (including 8 organ coordinators and 7 ICU physicians) were interviewed. Participants were invited to describe the factors that influence organ donation and the underlying reasons behind it. Bronfenbrenner's socioecological system model was used as theoretical support to construct a theoretical model of the factors influencing organ donation. Respondents participated in semistructured qualitative interviews that were audio-recorded and transcribed. The relevant data were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Four themes that influenced organ donation were identified including the influence of the deceased person's attributes, immediate family members, surrounding people and the environment, and the social-level factors. In addition, we obtained four strategies from the interviews to improve the organ shortage to ameliorate the current supply-demand imbalance in organ donation. These include multilevel publicity, relevant policy support, increasing other forms of supply and reducing organ demand. CONCLUSIONS Factors affecting organ donation after the death of a Chinese citizen include the personal characteristics of the donor, the decisions of family members such as immediate family members and the indirect influence of surrounding people such as collateral family members, in addition to factors related to the humanistic environment, religious beliefs and social opinion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - ChaoQun Chen
- Organ Procurement Organizations, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Kun Geng
- Organ Procurement Organizations, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xuedong Jia
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - FangYing Si
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - XiaoJing Lu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shuzhang Du
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaojian Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenzhi Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhao Yin
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute for Hospital Management of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
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7
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Zhang X, Gu Y, Yin J, Zhang Y, Jin C, Wang W, Li AM, Wang Y, Su L, Xu H, Ge X, Ye C, Tang L, Shen B, Fang J, Wang D, Feng R. Development, Reliability, and Structural Validity of the Scale for Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice in Ethics Implementation Among AI Researchers: Cross-Sectional Study. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e42202. [PMID: 37883175 PMCID: PMC10636617 DOI: 10.2196/42202] [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: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medical artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly contributed to decision support for disease screening, diagnosis, and management. With the growing number of medical AI developments and applications, incorporating ethics is considered essential to avoiding harm and ensuring broad benefits in the lifecycle of medical AI. One of the premises for effectively implementing ethics in Medical AI research necessitates researchers' comprehensive knowledge, enthusiastic attitude, and practical experience. However, there is currently a lack of an available instrument to measure these aspects. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to develop a comprehensive scale for measuring the knowledge, attitude, and practice of ethics implementation among medical AI researchers, and to evaluate its measurement properties. METHODS The construct of the Knowledge-Attitude-Practice in Ethics Implementation (KAP-EI) scale was based on the Knowledge-Attitude-Practice (KAP) model, and the evaluation of its measurement properties was in compliance with the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health status Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) reporting guidelines for studies on measurement instruments. The study was conducted in 2 phases. The first phase involved scale development through a systematic literature review, qualitative interviews, and item analysis based on a cross-sectional survey. The second phase involved evaluation of structural validity and reliability through another cross-sectional study. RESULTS The KAP-EI scale had 3 dimensions including knowledge (10 items), attitude (6 items), and practice (7 items). The Cronbach α for the whole scale reached .934. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the goodness-of-fit indices of the scale were satisfactory (χ2/df ratio:=2.338, comparative fit index=0.949, Tucker Lewis index=0.941, root-mean-square error of approximation=0.064, and standardized root-mean-square residual=0.052). CONCLUSIONS The results show that the scale has good reliability and structural validity; hence, it could be considered an effective instrument. This is the first instrument developed for this purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobo Zhang
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Gu
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Yin
- School of Philosophy Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuejie Zhang
- School of Computer Science Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cheng Jin
- School of Computer Science Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weibing Wang
- School of Public Health Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Albert Martin Li
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yingwen Wang
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Su
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Xu
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoling Ge
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chengjie Ye
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liangfeng Tang
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Shen
- Shanghai Hospital Development Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinwu Fang
- School of Public Health Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Daoyang Wang
- School of Public Health Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Rui Feng
- School of Computer Science Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Silva RR, Santos DAT, Costa BA, Farias Júnior NC, Braz AG, Costa GDCT, Andrade MS, Vancini RL, Weiss K, Knechtle B, de Lira CAB. Prevalence of fear of COVID-19, depression, and anxiety among undergraduate students during remote classes. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2023; 35:303-313. [PMID: 36632016 DOI: 10.1017/neu.2023.4] [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] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, undergraduate students were exposed to symptoms of psychological suffering during remote classes. Therefore, it is important to investigate the factors that may be generated and be related to such outcomes. OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between fear of COVID-19, depression, anxiety, and related factors in undergraduate students during remote classes. METHODS This cross-sectional study included 218 undergraduate students (60.6% women and 39.4% men). Students answered a self-administered online questionnaire designed to gather personal information, pandemic exposure, physical activity level, fear of COVID-19 using the 'Fear of COVID-19 Scale', symptoms of depression using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and anxiety using General Anxiety Disorder-7. RESULTS Undergraduate students had a high prevalence of depression and anxiety (83.0% and 76.1%, respectively) but a low prevalence of fear of COVID-19 (28.9%) during remote classes. Multivariate analysis revealed that women who reported health status as neither good nor bad and who had lost a family member from COVID-19 had the highest levels of fear. For depression and anxiety, the main related factors found were female gender, bad health status, insufficiently active, and complete adherence to the restriction measures. CONCLUSION These findings may be used to develop actions to manage symptoms of anxiety and depression among students, with interventions through physical activity programmes to improve mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rizia Rocha Silva
- Faculty of Physical Education and Dance, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Rodrigo Luiz Vancini
- Physical Education and Sports Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil
| | - Katja Weiss
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Medbase St. Gallen Am Vadianplatz, St. Gallen, Switzerland
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Ryan B, Kako M, Fink R, Şimşek P, Barach P, Acosta J, Bhatia S, Brickhouse M, Fendt M, Fontenot A, Arenas Garcia N, Garner S, Gunduz A, Hardin DM, Hatch T, Malrey-Horne L, MacDermot M, Kayano R, McKone J, Noel C, Nomura S, Novak J, Stricklin A, Swienton R, Tayfur I, Brooks B. Strategies for Strengthening the Resilience of Public Health Systems for Pandemics, Disasters, and Other Emergencies. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2023; 17:e479. [PMID: 37667881 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2023.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to identify and prioritize strategies for strengthening public health system resilience for pandemics, disasters, and other emergencies using a scorecard approach. METHODS The United Nations Public Health System Resilience Scorecard (Scorecard) was applied across 5 workshops in Slovenia, Turkey, and the United States of America. The workshops focused on participants reviewing and discussing 23 questions/indicators. A Likert type scale was used for scoring with zero being the lowest and 5 the highest. The workshop scores were analyzed and discussed by participants to prioritize areas of need and develop resilience strategies. Data from all workshops were aggregated, analyzed, and interpreted to develop priorities representative of participating locations. RESULTS Eight themes emerged representing the need for better integration of public health and disaster management systems. These include: assessing community disease burden; embedding long-term recovery groups in emergency systems; exploring mental health care needs; examining ecosystem risks; evaluating reserve funds; identifying what crisis communication strategies worked well; providing non-medical services; and reviewing resilience of existing facilities, alternate care sites, and institutions. CONCLUSIONS The Scorecard is an effective tool for establishing baseline resilience and prioritizing actions. The strategies identified reflect areas in most need for investment to improve public health system resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Ryan
- Department of Environmental Science, Environmental Health Science Program, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
- Department of Public Health, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
- Frist College of Medicine, Belmont University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Mayumi Kako
- Hiroshima University, School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Division of Nursing Science, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Rok Fink
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Perihan Şimşek
- Department of Emergency Aid and Disaster Management, Trabzon University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Paul Barach
- Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- University of Queensland School of Medicine, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jose Acosta
- Engineering and Computer Science, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
| | - Sanjaya Bhatia
- United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction Global Education and Training Institute, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Matthew Fendt
- Engineering and Computer Science, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
| | - Alicia Fontenot
- Department of Environmental Science, Environmental Health Science Program, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
- Department of Public Health, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
| | - Nahuel Arenas Garcia
- United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction Regional Office for the Americas and Caribbean, Panama
| | - Shelby Garner
- Gordon E. Inman College of Health Sciences and Nursing, Belmont University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Abdülkadir Gunduz
- Karadeniz Technical University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey
| | | | - Tim Hatch
- Alabama Department of Public Health, Montgomery, Alabama, USA
| | | | - Makiko MacDermot
- World Health Organization Centre of Health Development, Kobe, Japan
| | - Ryoma Kayano
- World Health Organization Centre of Health Development, Kobe, Japan
| | - Joshua McKone
- Engineering and Computer Science, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
| | - Chaverle Noel
- Department of Environmental Science, Environmental Health Science Program, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
| | - Shuhei Nomura
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Global Health Policy, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Tokyo Foundation for Policy Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Andrew Stricklin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, UT Southwestern, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Raymond Swienton
- Department of Emergency Medicine, UT Southwestern, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Ismail Tayfur
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Bryan Brooks
- Department of Environmental Science, Environmental Health Science Program, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
- Department of Public Health, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
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Aquino SD, Lins S. The personality puzzle: a comprehensive analysis of its impact on three buying behaviors. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1179257. [PMID: 37671289 PMCID: PMC10475610 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1179257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed at examining the role of personality traits in impulsive buying, compulsive buying, and panic buying simultaneously during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the beginning of the third confinement announced by the Portuguese government, 485 Portuguese answered in this study, mean age of 41.9 years (min = 18, max = 84; SD = 12.9), and 29.9% were men. Analyzes were carried out to investigate the association of Big Five's personality factors with impulsive buying, compulsive buying, and panic buying. Results showed that the three buying behaviors under study have significant and positive correlations between them, and they also correlate with different personality traits. The association of each Big Five factor on buying behaviors differed. While conscientiousness was negatively and openness was positively associated with impulsive buying, conscientiousness was negatively associated with compulsive buying, agreeableness was positively associated with panic buying, and neuroticism correlated positively with all consumer behaviors. Understanding the personality traits that contribute to the development of a disorder may provide valuable insight into preventive measures and effective treatment approaches for some debilitating disorders. This study opens ways for investigating impulsive buying and compulsive buying by relating them to panic buying. It discusses the three different buying behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic and future consumer research directions involving other variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sibele D. Aquino
- Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Laboratory of Research in Social Psychology, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Samuel Lins
- Center for Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Education Science, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Jiang C, Jiang W, Yue Y, Li L, Sun T, Chen G, Xu W, Shah SM, Liu X, Chen S, Xin X, Wang T, Xu Z, Wu A, Shen X, Chen J, Ding R, Yuan Y. The trends of psychosomatic symptoms and perceived stress among healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in China: Four cross-sectional nationwide surveys, 2020-2023. Psychiatry Res 2023; 326:115301. [PMID: 37390600 PMCID: PMC10276499 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115301] [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] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
An unseen wave of vast infection was detected in China in December 2022, and healthcare workers faced inevitable challenges and heavy stress. We aimed to present a dynamic mental health map and, most importantly, provide a timely report of the current situation in healthcare workers. The current study conducted four national cross-sectional online surveys from February and March 2020, Apr 2022, and Jan 2023. The Psychosomatic Symptom Scale (PSSS) and Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10) were used to assess psychosomatic symptoms and perceived stress. Fourteen thousand nine hundred forty-five participants (8578 healthcare workers and 6367 others) participated in the surveys. The prevalence of psychosomatic syndrome, reflected by PSSS, was 19.3% (Wave1), 22.9% (Wave2), 36.4% (Wave3), and 60.7% (Wave4) among healthcare workers, compared to 24.0% (Wave1), 35.7% (Wave2), 34.2% (Wave3) and 50.5% (Wave4) among the others. In addition, healthcare workers exhibited lower PSSS total scores at the beginning but higher in later waves. Despite their infection status, they now suffer from more severe psychosomatic symptoms than the rest of society. Our findings suggest that healthcare workers in China have now experienced severe psychosomatic symptoms and tremendous stress. Therefore, there is an urgent need to utilize social support for them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenguang Jiang
- Department of Psychosomatics and Psychiatry, ZhongDa Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenhao Jiang
- Department of Psychosomatics and Psychiatry, ZhongDa Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yingying Yue
- Department of Psychosomatics and Psychiatry, ZhongDa Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Clinical Psychology, The Fourth People's Hospital of Lianyungang, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Taipeng Sun
- Department of Psychosomatics and Psychiatry, ZhongDa Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Department of medical psychology, Huai'an Third People's Hospital, Huaian, Jiangsu, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Psychosomatics and Psychiatry, ZhongDa Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Department of medical psychology, Huai'an Third People's Hospital, Huaian, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of Psychosomatics and Psychiatry, ZhongDa Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Department of Clinical Psychology, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital, Yangzhou, China
| | - S Mudasser Shah
- Department of Psychosomatics and Psychiatry, ZhongDa Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoyun Liu
- Department of Psychosomatics and Psychiatry, ZhongDa Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Suzhen Chen
- Department of Psychosomatics and Psychiatry, ZhongDa Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoyun Xin
- Department of Psychosomatics and Psychiatry, ZhongDa Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tianyu Wang
- Department of Psychosomatics and Psychiatry, ZhongDa Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhi Xu
- Department of Psychosomatics and Psychiatry, ZhongDa Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Aiqin Wu
- Department of Psychosomatics, The Affiliated First Hospital of Suzhou University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China; Chinese Society of Psychosomatic Medicine (CSPM), China
| | - Xinhua Shen
- Department of Neurosis and Psychosomatic Diseases, Huzhou Third Municipal Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, Huzhou, China; Chinese Society of Psychosomatic Medicine (CSPM), China
| | - Jue Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Chinese Society of Psychosomatic Medicine (CSPM), China
| | - Rongjing Ding
- Peking Union Medical University Hospital, Cardiac Rehabilitation Center, Beijing, China; Chinese Society of Psychosomatic Medicine (CSPM), China
| | - Yonggui Yuan
- Department of Psychosomatics and Psychiatry, ZhongDa Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Chinese Society of Psychosomatic Medicine (CSPM), China.
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12
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Pham TH, Beck E, Postma MJ, Németh B, Ágh T, de Waure C, Salisbury DM, Nutma N, van der Schans J. Country score tool to assess readiness and guide evidence generation of immunization programs in aging adults in Europe. Front Public Health 2023; 10:1080678. [PMID: 36699900 PMCID: PMC9869118 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1080678] [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: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Delaying of policies for immunization of aging adults, low vaccine uptake, and the lack of supportive evidence at the national level could diminish the value in health and economics of such programs. This study aims to develop a "country score tool" to assess readiness and to facilitate evidence generation for aging adult immunization programs in Europe, and examine the comprehensiveness, relevance, acceptability, and feasibility of the tool. Methods The tool was developed in two phases. First, a modified Delphi process was used to construct the tool. The process included a literature review, stakeholder consultations, and a three-round Delphi study. The Delphi panel included researchers, supra-national and national decision-makers of immunization programs recruited from five countries, using snowball sampling method. The consensus was predefined at the agreement rate of 70%. Pilot testing of the tool was conducted in the Netherlands, Germany, Serbia, and Hungary involving researchers in the field of health technology assessment. After assessing the countries' readiness, researchers evaluated four features, namely comprehensiveness, relevance, acceptability, and feasibility of the tool via an online survey that included 5-scale Likert questions. The percentages of affirmative answers including "agree" and "totally agree" choices were presented. Results The review identified 16 tools and frameworks that formed the first version of our tool with 14 items. Eight experts were involved in the Delphi panel. Through three Delphi rounds, four items were added, one was dropped, and all others were amended. The consensus was achieved on the tool with 17 items divided into decision-making and implementation parts. Each item has a guiding question, corresponding to explanations and rationales to inform assessment with readiness scores. Eight researchers completed the pilot testing. The tool was rated as comprehensive (75%), relevant (100%), acceptable (75%), and feasible (88%) by participants. Conclusion Through a thorough and transparent process, a country score tool was developed helping to identify strengths, weaknesses, and evidential requirements for decision-making and implementation of immunization programs of aging adults. The tool is relevant for different European contexts and shows good comprehensiveness, acceptability, and feasibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thi Hao Pham
- Unit of Global Health, Department of Health Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands,Asc Academics, Groningen, Netherlands,Thi Hao Pham ✉
| | - Ekkehard Beck
- Department of Vaccines Value Evidence, GlaxoSmithKline, Wavre, Belgium
| | - Maarten J. Postma
- Unit of Global Health, Department of Health Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands,Department of Economics, Econometrics & Finance, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands,Centre of Excellence in Higher Education for Pharmaceutical Care Innovation, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | | | - Tamás Ágh
- Syreon Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Chiara de Waure
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - David M. Salisbury
- Royal Institute International Affairs, Chatham House, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nynke Nutma
- RIVM, The Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Jurjen van der Schans
- Unit of Global Health, Department of Health Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands,Department of Economics, Econometrics & Finance, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands,*Correspondence: Jurjen van der Schans ✉
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13
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Uleanya C, Yu K. Data Collection in Times of Pandemic: A Self-Study and Revisit of Research Practices During a Crisis. SAGE OPEN 2023; 13:21582440231160698. [PMID: 37008258 PMCID: PMC10050996 DOI: 10.1177/21582440231160698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 as a global pandemic has greatly disrupted research, not only in terms of the practicality of research activities such as data collection, but also in data quality. Using self-study in form of duoethnography method for reflecting on research practice, this article reviews and reflects on the practices of remote data collection during the pandemic and further revisits additional issues brought about by these practices and concerns. One key observation from this self-study is the prevalence of practical challenges, particularly those related to participant access, that overshadows the potential advantages of remote data collection as well as other challenges. This challenge results in researchers' reduced control of the research process and also a requirement for more flexibility, greater sensitivity toward the participants and research skills for the researchers. We also observe greater conflation of quantitative and qualitative data collection and the emergence of triangulation as the main strategy to offset potential threats to data quality. This article concludes by calling for more discussions on several areas that feature scarce discussion in literature, including potential rhetoric importance assigned to data collection, adequacy of triangulation to safeguard data quality, and the potential difference between COVID-19's impact on quantitative and qualitative research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chinaza Uleanya
- University of Johannesburg Faculty of Education, South Africa
| | - Ke Yu
- University of Johannesburg Faculty of Education, South Africa
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14
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Yassin A, Al-Mistarehi AH, Qarqash AA, Soudah O, Karasneh RA, Al-Azzam S, Khasawneh AG, El-Salem K, Kheirallah KA, Khassawneh BY. Trends in Insomnia, Burnout, and Functional Impairment among Health Care Providers over the First Year of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Clin Pract Epidemiol Ment Health 2022; 18:e174501792206200. [PMID: 37274859 PMCID: PMC10156054 DOI: 10.2174/17450179-v18-e2206200] [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: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Background COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted the psychological well-being and quality of life of health care providers (HCPs). Objectives This study assessed the trends in prevalence and predictors of insomnia, burnout, and functional impairment among HCPs over the first year of the pandemic. Methods An online survey was conducted one month after the pandemic's onset (onset group) and a year later (one-year group). The demographic features of participants were collected. Insomnia, burnout, and functional impairment were assessed using Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Mini-Z survey, and Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS), respectively. Results The onset group included 211 HCPs (mean (SD) age 34.7 (9.3) years and 73% men), while 212 HCPs participated in the one-year survey (mean (SD) age 35.9 (10.5) years and 69% men). High prevalence estimates were found in both onset and one-year groups of symptoms of insomnia (52% vs. 49%), of diagnosis of clinical insomnia (15% vs. 18%), with a high mean ISI score (8.4 vs. 8.7), but with no significant difference between the onset and one-year groups. Risk factors for clinical insomnia included age in both groups, lower income and contact level with COVID-19 patients/samples in the onset group, and lower Mini-Z scores and higher SDS scores in the one-year group. Approximately one-third of respondents reported at least one or more burnout symptoms, with a higher percentage in the one-year group (35.4%) than in the onset group (24.2%) (p=0.012). Younger age, lower monthly income, and higher ISI and SDS scores were risk factors for burnout in both groups. Greater perceived changes in social life were associated with burnout in the onset group. In contrast, higher weekly working hours, worse participants' evaluation of their institution's preparation, and more changes in workload were risk factors for burnout in the one-year group. The SDS score and its subscales scores were higher in the one-year group than in the onset group. Changes in workload and social life predicted higher SDS scores among both groups. Living with older people predicted higher SDS scores among the onset group, while contact level and estimated number of COVID-19 patients that participants engaged in during caring predicted higher SDS scores among the one-year group. ISI scores were significantly correlated with the Mini-Z scores and SDS scores in both groups, while the Mini-Z and SDS scores were significantly correlated only in the one-year group. Conclusion This study demonstrated high rates of insomnia, burnout, and functional impairment among HCPs during the pandemic. It reveals a significant rise in job burnout and functional impairment of HCPs overtime during the pandemic. Furthermore, high-risk subgroups are also highlighted for whom comprehensive psychosocial and occupational interventions might be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Yassin
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Abdel-Hameed Al-Mistarehi
- Department of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Aref A. Qarqash
- Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Ola Soudah
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Reema A. Karasneh
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Sayer Al-Azzam
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Aws G. Khasawneh
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Khalid El-Salem
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Khalid A. Kheirallah
- Department of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Basheer Y. Khassawneh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
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15
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Hamed AM, Javaid HA, Abbasi S, Amanullah A, Ramadan M, Shakir IM, AlHusseini N. The Impact of COVID-19 on Physical Activity Among Adults in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study. Cureus 2022; 14:e26586. [PMID: 35936172 PMCID: PMC9352305 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.26586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Physical inactivity has been identified as a major factor in developing and progressing chronic non-communicable diseases such as obesity. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ranks high worldwide in rates of obesity. During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, public health measures have been enforced. These included social distancing, masking, reduction of workplace daily hours, prevention of social gatherings, and home quarantine measures. These ultimately restricted the ability to perform regular physical health activities. The aim of this study is to understand the impact of COVID-19 on physical activity among adults in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted among the Saudi population. An online survey was sent through social media to gather data regarding individual physical activity before and after the start of the COVID-19 restrictions. The data were collected from March 20, 2021, until May 20, 2021, and analyzed using chi-square and paired t-test using the SAS software version 9.4. Results In total, 433 participants completed the survey. There were 183 (42.3%) males, and the majority of the participants were Saudi nationals (284, 65.6%). Most of the participants (181, 41.8%) were in the age group 25-35 years and 253 (58%) had bachelor’s degrees. Although the results did not show a statistically significant difference between pre- and post-COVID-19 respondents in terms of physical activity, married participants, participants from the eastern province, and participants who did not exercise regularly were all significantly impacted by lack of exercise compared to their counterparts (p < 0.05). Conclusions Taking measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is essential. Nonetheless, recommendations should be sought for physical activity during lockdowns, and large-scale research should be conducted to better understand what causes the exaggeration of sedentary lifestyles during lockdowns and how to prevent them. Further studies need to be conducted, and national guidelines should be made available in case of a future lockdown.
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Prakash O, Solanki B, Sheth JK, Nayak M, Kadam M, Vyas S, Shukla A, Tiwari H. COVID-Kavach-Based Seropositivity in the General Population of Ahmedabad: Just Before the Start of the Vaccination for the Elderly in India. Cureus 2022; 14:e22759. [PMID: 35371875 PMCID: PMC8971097 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.22759] [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] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The present study was carried out in succession of three serosurvey studies carried out during 2020 in Ahmedabad with an objective to estimate the seroprevalence of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) in Ahmedabad city so as to scientifically understand the pandemic progression. Methods Polio booth-based stratification was followed for the population-based stratified sampling among the general population of Ahmedabad. The seroprevalence was compared with various factors for valid and precise predictions regarding the immunity status of the population. Results As on February 2021, the seroprevalence for IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV2 in the general population of Ahmedabad was 27.92% (95% confidence interval 27.06-28.80), much below the minimum desired for herd immunity. Comparison of seropositivity with age groups showed higher seroprevalence with increasing age groups. Seroprevalence was higher among males (29.08%) than females (27.01%) and the difference was statistically significant (Z=2.30, P=0.02). Calculating the seropositivity among the subcategories, cases had a seropositivity of 64.90% and family contacts had a seropositivity of 28.00%. Seronegative cases indicate the possibility of absent, undetectable, or disappearing IgG antibodies. Seropositivity of 37% among the vaccinated individuals may be related to dose and duration of vaccination, as the COVID vaccination had started just before the present study and none had completed 14 days after the second dose. Conclusions The low level of IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV2 using the COVID-Kavach test kit in the general population of Ahmedabad city of India, as on February 2021, before the start of COVID vaccination for the general population suggests that the preventive measures be strongly followed for continued control of the pandemic situation at least till majority of the population is effectively covered with vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Om Prakash
- Indian Administrative Services, Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, Government of Gujarat, Ahmedabad, IND
| | - Bhavin Solanki
- Health Department, Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, Ahmedabad, IND
| | - Jay K Sheth
- Community Medicine, Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation Medical Education Trust Medical College, Ahmedabad, IND
| | - Milan Nayak
- Health Department, Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, Ahmedabad, IND
| | - Mina Kadam
- Microbiology, Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation Medical Education Trust Medical College, Ahmedabad, IND
| | - Sheetal Vyas
- Community Medicine, Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation Medical Education Trust Medical College, Ahmedabad, IND
| | - Aparajita Shukla
- Community Medicine, Nathiba Hargovandas Lakhmichand (NHL) Municipal Medical College, Ahmedabad, IND
| | - Hemant Tiwari
- Community Medicine, Nathiba Hargovandas Lakhmichand (NHL) Municipal Medical College, Ahmedabad, IND
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Teixeira N, Mello Vianna G, Lima R, Jáuregui C, Furtado L, Pereira Alberto T, Medeiros R. Covid-19 Impact on the Music Sector in Belo Horizonte (Minas Gerais, Brazil). FRONTIERS IN SOCIOLOGY 2021; 6:643344. [PMID: 34268350 PMCID: PMC8276977 DOI: 10.3389/fsoc.2021.643344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This article addresses the difficulties of musicians and measures taken by public and private authorities to mitigate the social impact of Covid-19 in the music sector of Belo Horizonte, capital city of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. These are preliminary results of a research developed by the research lab on Sound, Communication, Textualities and Sociability [ESCUTAS (in Portuguese)] at the Social Communication Department of the Federal University of Minas Gerais. This study has two perspectives. First, we surveyed public sources about Brazilian measures for the sector, as we are interested in verifying policies used by the private and public sectors, not only at the national level, but also at regional (state of Minas Gerais) and local (city of Belo Horizonte) levels. Second, we investigate the impact of the pandemic on the city's music sector, considering various categories of the profession such as composers, interpreters, arrangers, music teachers, DJs, among others. This work is part of a scenario of academic research and economic reports on the impacts of the pandemic in the music industry. More specifically, it aims to contribute to discussion on the effects of the social distance on livelihood of professionals of that area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nísio Teixeira
- Department of Social Communication, Laboratory Escutas, Fafich Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Graziela Mello Vianna
- Department of Social Communication, Laboratory Escutas, Fafich Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Lima
- Department of Social Communication, Laboratory Escutas, Faculdades Promove, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Carlos Jáuregui
- Department of Journalism, Laboratory Escutas, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Mariana, Brazil
| | - Lucianna Furtado
- Laboratory Escutas, PhD student at Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Rafael Medeiros
- Laboratory Escutas, PhD student at Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
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