Aftermath Of COVID-19 Research Articles

Expand the Success of Screening to Reduce Aortic Aneurysm Mortality - Progress Interpretation and New Fronts.

Aortic aneurysm is a leading cause of death across the world. Many victicms carry it without knowing. Ruputre of aortic aneurysms leads to devastating sudden death. This brings trauma to families and our society. Based upon sound results out of several cohort studies, US Preventative Services Task Force (USPST) crafted the 1st nationwide abdominal aorta aneurysm (AAA) screening program in 2005. It was renewed and expanded in each of the subsequent revisions in 2014 and 2019. UK and Sweden estalished their own programs as well. Since then, a significant decline in AAA prevalence and mortality is observed. Two decades into the practice, the state of the art on diagonstics, surgical approaches, and pharmacological options have drastically changed. Patients previously ineligible for treatment or inconclusive on diagnostics now have valid options. The screening program is on the verge for a bold expansion. In this review, we summarized the chroncles leading to the inception of the screening programs, progress interpretation after implementation including gains, gaps and controversies, advents of new technologies and approaches, new fronts facing us, as well as priorities to be addressed in future phases. Particularly, screening asssys with a clinically tested biomarker, tetrahydrobiopterin (H4B), enables unpresended accessibility, consistency and throughput to accommodate the needs of a larger population. Furthermore, patients with AAAs at size below the eligibility threhold for surgical intervention (e.g., < 5.5 cm) can be treated with novel oral medications. Confronting factors such as changing demographics and COVID-19 aftermath are putting up new challenges. Nevertheless, running a program at this scale demands both unwavering commitment and agile fine-tuning. Technical innovation will be an indispensable chapter of its continued success. The burden of aortic aneurysm-led sudden death is too heavy for any family and the society to bear; it is time to step up our resolve with additional capacities as discussed in the present review.

Automatic ECG Arrhythmia Recognition using ANN and CNN

Present research highlights the need for more patient-oriented monitoring systems for cardiac health, especially in the aftermath of COVID-19. The study introduces a contactless and affordable ECG device capable of recording heart arrhythmias for remote monitoring, which is vital in managing the rising incidence of untimely heart attacks. Two deep learning algorithms have been developed to design the system: RCANN (Real-time Compressed Artificial Neural Network) and RCCNN (Real-time Compressed Convolutional Neural Network), respectively, based on ANN and CNN. These methods are designed to classify and analyze three different forms of ECG datasets: raw, filtere and filtered + compressed signals. These were developed in this study to identify the most suitable type of dataset that can be utilized for regular/remote monitoring. This data is prepared using online ECG signals from Physionet(ONLINE) and the developed real-time signals from Arduino ECG sensor device. Performance is analysed on the basis of accuracy, sensitivity, specificity and F1 score for all kinds of designed ECG databases using both RCCNN and RCANN. For raw data, accuracy is 99.2%, sensitivity is 99.7%, specificity is 99.2%, and F1-Score is 99.2%. For RCCNN, accuracy is 93.2%, sensitivity is 91.5%, specificity is 95.1%, and F1-Score is 93.5% for RCANN. For Filtered Data, accuracy is 97.7%, sensitivity is 95.9%, specificity is 99.4%, and F1-Score is 97.6%. For RCCNN, accuracy is 90.5%, sensitivity is 85.8%, specificity is 96.4%, and F1-Score is 90.9% for RCANN. For Filtered + compressed data, accuracy is 96.6%, sensitivity is 97.6%, specificity is 95.7%, and F1-Score is 96.5%. For RCCNN, accuracy is 85.2%, sensitivity is 79.2%, specificity is 94.5%, and F1-Score is 86.7% for RCANN. The performance evaluation shows that RCCNN with filtered and compressed datasets outperforms other approaches for telemonitoring and makes it a promising approach for individualized cardiac health management.

Experiences of women artisans in Ghana’s informal construction sector: the COVID-19 aftermath and its implications

ABSTRACT Research on women’s progress in assuming roles and acquiring technical skills in men-dominated areas such as the informal construction sector is critical, particularly as the world strives to achieve gender equality and empower women in the post-COVID-19 era. This study assesses this in the context of young women who have entered the construction sector through the improved apprentice project in Ghana’s Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis. Employing a qualitative methodology, we conducted in-depth interviews with 18 participants and utilised a theoretical perspective from feminist theory to examine the impacts of the pandemic on their advancement in this domain and its consequences for attaining Sustainable Development Goal 5 on gender equality. The paper analyses the findings and proposes policy suggestions, such as enhancing post-pandemic assistance for young women in this sector.

DIGITAL AND NON-DIGITAL GAMES IN YOUNG LEARNER EFL CLASSROOMS AT WARTIME IN UKRAINE

The present study aims to investigate the gaming habits of young learners (YLs) in the process of learning English as a foreign language and examine the role non-digital or conventional and digital games play in teaching English to young learners. It examines both conventional games used in the classroom and digital games played outside of formal instruction. Reasons for playing these two types of games were elicited from the children who were additionally asked about the preferences concerning playing games alone (solitary play) or with peers (collaborative play), in the English classroom or beyond it, i.e. preferred contexts for gameplay (classroom vs. home). The survey was conducted in Ukraine in a particularly challenging period in February and March, 2023, marked by the aftermath of COVID-19 and the subsequent declaration of martial law in the country. An online questionnaire was designed to collect data from our participants aged 10-13. The questionnaire was then administered to the children, and a total of 175 completed questionnaires yielded valuable results that formed the foundation of the study’s analysis. Findings revealed that in the current war-torn Ukraine most frequently preference is demonstrated for conventional games which are played within the structured environment of the English classroom. These games were perceived by YLs as a means offering them to alleviate the burdens of everyday stress while simultaneously facilitating lively and engaging peer interaction in English. Conversely, digital games were preferred for home-based play primarily due to their inherent entertainment value, essentially bringing them pleasure and enjoyment. One of the most crucial implications to be gleaned from this research lies in the urgent need for educators to actively integrate age-appropriate and educationally sound digital games and applications into their existing EFL curricula. By strategically incorporating these digital tools, educators can effectively supplement formal language instruction, fostering a more multifaceted and engaging learning experience for their young learners.

Citizen’s perspective on pandemic preparedness

Abstract In the aftermath of COVID-19, pandemic preparedness has become a key concern for governments and public health institutes across the world. As policymakers and scientist grapple with the lessons learned and implications for pandemic preparedness, it is also imperative to take the perspectives of citizens into account. To explore the perceptions and expectations regarding pandemic preparedness, the Behavioural Unit of RIVM conducted a qualitative follow-up study amongst a representative sample of Dutch citizens. At different locations in the Netherlands focus groups were organized with diverse participants. The topic guide was based on an analysis of a previously administered pandemic preparedness questionnaire and theoretical framework, also presented in the current workshop. Topics included risk perceptions, trust in government and other institutions versus self-reliance and the role of media and communication. Furthermore, pandemic preparedness was contrasted with other forms of disaster and crisis management. During the presentation the latest results are shared, and we will discuss possible policy recommendations and how the general public can be involved to develop a better understanding of their needs with respect to preparedness.

From crisis to chronic: a comparative analysis of Long COVID impact in Italy and the United States

Abstract Background The aftermath of COVID-19 is bringing about socio-economic consequences, such as diminished quality of life (QoL), decreased productivity, and considerable healthcare expenditures. Despite the emerging acknowledgment of a clinical syndrome following COVID-19 disease, known as Long COVID (LC), notable research gaps persist. This study aims to assess the epidemiological and economic impact of LC in both Italy and the United States (US). Methods This ecological analysis comprises epidemiologic and economic data from 2020 to January 2023, regarding working-age individuals (18-64 years). An Italy/US incidence rate ratio (eIRR) was estimated to compute LC cases in each country. The product between the value of a year spent in good health, individual Quality-Adjusted Life Year (QALY) loss, and LC cases yielded total lost QoL. Temporary productivity loss (TPL) was calculated through the Human Capital Approach. All estimates were deemed significant at a p-value less than 0.05. Results Up to date, the eIRR was 0.78 [0.43 - 0.91] implying 22% fewer LC cases in Italy with respect to the US. Total LC cases were 11 [8.7 - 13.5] and 1.8 [0.9 - 2.1] million in the US and Italy, respectively. The relative QALYs loss was 1.5 [0.8 - 3.1] and 0.2 [0.1 - 0.9] million. Reduced QoL cost roughly $189 [164 - 214] billion in the US and €6 [1 - 11] billion in Italy. TPL amounted to $37 [21 - 57] billion in the US and €2.8 [1.2 - 7.4] billion in Italy. Americans aged 30-39 years showed the largest income loss (26.6%), while in Italy it occurred in the age group 50-64 years (38%). Conclusions LC places a substantial burden in Italy and the US, impacting both the productivity of the working-age population and influencing the younger generation, who constitute the future workforce. Our study underpins the necessity for comprehensive health policies, programs, and interventions alongside effective tertiary prevention strategies to tackle the challenges posed by LC. Key messages • According to this analysis, both countries show significant productivity and quality-adjusted life years loss due to LC among working age individuals. • Steering the formulation of evidence-based sounding health policies to address LC burden, among working age individuals, both in Italy and in the US.

Fiscal Sustainability in India: an Assessment in Pre and Aftermath of Covid-19

The purpose of this research paper is to evaluate India's budgetary sustainability both before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Global economies have been severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, and India is no exception. The country is facing significant fiscal issues as a result of rising costs for social security, health care, and economic stimulus plans. This study examines shifts in India's fiscal situation prior to the pandemic and the consequences encountered in its aftermath by examining fiscal variables such as state debt, budget deficits, and revenue trends. Using a mixed-method approach, the study combines qualitative evaluations derived from government reports and economic forecasts with quantitative data analysis. Initial results show that there has been a decline in fiscal indicators since COVID-19, which has been made worse by lower revenue generation and higher demands for expenditure.

Navigating the new normal: Exploring the evolution of entrepreneurship education in the aftermath of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted business schools worldwide, prompting the urgent adoption of innovative teaching methods and digital transformation. This study employs an exploratory case study approach, conducting 18 semi-structured interviews to examine the benefits and risks associated with novel teaching modalities in entrepreneurship education. Specifically, the research highlights the effects of COVID-19 on students' social dynamics, their learning experiences and engagement, as well as the digital transformation of teaching within entrepreneurship education. The findings reveal substantial changes in various components of entrepreneurship education during the pandemic, including the emergence of new teaching forms and modalities. Drawing from these insights, the study provides valuable recommendations for future developments in entrepreneurship education. It emphasises the importance of adopting a balanced approach to teaching that leverages the advantages of face-to-face instruction while harnessing digitalisation and innovative teaching methods. By embracing successful elements of digital transformation in entrepreneurship education, higher education institutions can enhance the resilience and adaptability of their entrepreneurship programmes, equipping students for the entrepreneurial journey ahead. This longitudinal study highlights the evolving nature of entrepreneurship education in response to unprecedented challenges.

The aftermath of COVID-19: generalized anxiety disorder and burnout among radiology practitioners and interns in Saudi Arabia.

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has presented unprecedented stressors and difficulties for healthcare professionals. This study explored the prevalence of generalized anxiety disorders and burnout among radiology practitioners and interns in various hospitals in Saudi Arabia after the end of the COVID-19 global public health emergency. A cross-sectional survey of 230 radiology practitioners and interns was conducted between October and November 2023. This study utilized the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7) scale and Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey for Medical Personnel (MBI-HSS-MP) 22-item questionnaire, employing a non-probability convenience sampling method. The average scores of the individual components constituting the GAD-7 scale and each burnout scale were calculated, and statistical analyses were conducted using the Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis H nonparametric tests. Of 382 radiology practitioners and interns, 230 (60.2%) responded to the survey. Notably, 42.6% of the participants reported experiencing GAD. Regarding burnout, 82.3% were at moderate-to-high risk for emotional exhaustion, 93.5% for depersonalization, and 52.1% for personal achievement. The 31-40 years age group showed significantly higher burnout rates (p = 0.001) compared with the other age groups. Those with more than three years of experience had notably higher emotional exhaustion scores (p = 0.002) and a nearly significant increase in depersonalization scores (p = 0.051) than those with less experience. Our study revealed that 42.6% of radiology practitioners and interns experienced GAD, with the majority facing significant burnout. Furthermore, our research indicates a decline in GAD levels among radiology practitioners and interns compared with the peak COVID-19 pandemic period. It also showed a significant increase in both the incidence and severity of burnout, surpassing pre-pandemic levels in a comparable cohort. These findings emphasize the pressing challenges of GAD and burnout among healthcare workers, especially radiology professionals.

Drivers and Impact of European Defence Market Integration: A Literature Meta-Synthesis with Economic Focus

ABSTRACT The Ukraine war, the aftermath of COVID-19, Brexit and shifting US geostrategic interests are putting pressure on the European defence situation, strategy and budgets. The current crises expose warfare capability gaps in the European armed forces and capacity constraints of the European defence industry after decades of the peace dividend. More nations are calling for stronger engagement of the EU in the defence sector to overcome these challenges and complete the European defence sector integration that started in the late 1990s. It is estimated that more cooperation in defence procurement and research could save up to 30% of the current €290 bn total EU27 defence budgets. Can this combination of recent factors provide new impulses towards a unified European defence market, more cooperation on defence procurement and industry consolidation? We conducted a literature review (‘meta-synthesis’) of 172 journal articles, studies and think-tank papers since 1995 to build a holistic picture. The analysis aims to describe the progress and challenges of European defence market integration from an economic viewpoint. It provides future researchers with a basic understanding of defence industrial challenges, motivations and economic drivers of European defence integration as well as of reasons for resistance and potential scenarios.

Raising the Flag of Vigilance on Mpox Outbreak in Indonesia: Are We Prepared?

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the world has become acutely aware of the devastating impact of infectious diseases on public health, economies, and societies. As we gradually recover from the aftermath of COVID-19, another potential threat looms on the horizon, mpox, formerly known as monkeypox. The recent surge in mpox cases worldwide has prompted health authorities to sound an alarm, and Indonesia, as a populous nation with a complex healthcare system, must ask itself: Are we prepared for this emerging challenge?. The question "Are we prepared?" may not have a simple yes or no answer. Instead, it should serve as a reminder of the need for vigilance, adaptation, and continuous improvement in public health systems. As we navigate this new health challenge, the true measure of Indonesia's preparedness is its ability to respond swiftly, effectively, and equitably to protect the health and well-being of all citizens.

Why trust scientists?

Wonder implies the desire to learn. Aristotle A number of surveys, conducted in the aftermath of COVID19, have found that levels of trust in scientists are moderately high worldwide, although there are significant differences between countries. As the largest global survey reveals, scientists are perceived to have a high level of expertise, moderate integrity and benevolent intentions. Although with a different research focus, the 2024 edition of the Edelman Trust Barometer also found that trust in scientists is high relative to government leaders or CEOs, making them expected to lead the implementation of innovations.

Impact of the destination image and government policy responsiveness of China on Korean travelers’ destination trust and behaviors in the post-pandemic era

The underlying mechanism of the destination trust of Korean travelers and behaviors toward China after the COVID-19 pandemic is explored in the present study, which considers the role of the destination image constituents and perceived government policy responsiveness for tourism recovery. The data was collected from Korean nationals who are currently residing in South Korea and have traveled to China in the last five years. The results revealed that the developed conceptual framework had a satisfactory level of explanatory ability in regards to predicting the travel and recommendation intentions of Korean travelers toward China, which destination trust serves as the key mediator. Moreover, the perception of Korean travelers in regards to Chinese government policy responsiveness for tourism recovery significantly strengthened the effect of image factors on destination trust. The study also discovered that the importance of image factors varies in regards to the formation of trust and destination behaviors. This research provides significant theoretical insights into the post-health crisis tourism recovery, which emphasizes changes in Korean travel patterns in the aftermath of COVID-19 as well as the wider socio-political environment that influences travel destinations. It also presents useful guidance for Chinese tourism stakeholders in regards to implementing effective recovery strategies that are aimed at the lucrative Korean outbound travel market during the post-COVID-19 pandemic period.

Structural Effects of Economic Shocks on the Macroeconomic Economy–Electricity–Emissions Nexus in India via Long-Term Cointegration Approach

For developing nations to achieve net-zero targets, macroeconomic linkages impacting the decoupling of emissions from economic growth must account for non-linear business cycles and economic shocks. This study aims to delineate decarbonization policy pathways for the Indian electricity sector in the aftermath of COVID-19 by analysing the long-term evolution of the economy–electricity–emissions (3E) nexus during the 2008 financial crisis and during COVID-19, covering the period of 1996Q2 to 2020Q3. Upon testing multiple theoretical 3E systems, it was found that a model internalizing trade, inflation, and stochasticity was able to minimize the reproduction errors from growth to recession phases, as well as predict the rebound effect from an economic crisis. This was revealed to be due to more information within the coefficients in a trade stochastic model. Our results confirm the existence of electricity-associated emission decoupling with capital formation in the long-run, post-crisis, while economic growth and inflation increase CO2 emissions. The main finding highlights the negative feedback loop of inflation-&gt;trade-&gt;emissions, which shows that GDP and emissions are not directly causal. This long-run macroeconomic dynamic death spiral causes decoupling to be inhibited, where fossil fuel imports should not be subsidized for economic shock rebound, and the risk hedging of energy transition investments should occur in the post-COVID-19 era.

Mental health and exercise during the COVID-19 pandemic: A Twitter sentiment analysis.

Beyond its immediate health consequences, the COVID-19 pandemic led to an exacerbation in the mental health of the global population. Regular exercise and its lack thereof are also known to affect mental health. Tweets and their content analysis can provide information about aspects of users' lives including their health habits and mental health. The purpose of this study was to examine individuals' exercise habits and mental health during the pandemic by means of sentiment and correlational analyses. These results indicate that, while exercise and mental health tweets were more COVID-focused in the first 12 months of the pandemic, exercise tweets became more exercise-focused, and mental health tweets became more mental-health-focused eventually during the pandemic. Efforts to increase exercise participation in individuals may prove beneficial. Further research needs to examine the effects of exercise on mental health in the aftermath of COVID-19.

Examining the relationship between women’s empowerment and food security in low- and middle-income countries: A narrative review

Prior research has proposed women’s empowerment in agriculture as one of the strategies to mitigate household and individual food insecurity within nutrition-sensitive agriculture interventions. Yet the current evidence on this relationship is inconclusive requiring further exploration to elucidate the pathways through which women’s empowerment is associated with food security. This literature review aimed to draw insights from studies on women’s empowerment and food security and identify the related challenges and best practices in this pathway within the context of low- and middle-income countries. Scopus, PubMed, and Global Health databases were searched, as well as reference lists for articles. In total 21 articles met the inclusion criteria. Findings suggest a mixed relationship between women’s empowerment and food security and highlighted a gap in conceptualizing and operationalizing food security. To achieve sustainable food security, particularly in the aftermath of COVID-19, researchers and stakeholders must respond to the broader context of gender systems that restricts women’s rights and access to productive resources to achieve food security.

The Condition of Education: Teacher Mental Health Absenteeism in the Aftermath of COVID-19

&lt;i&gt;The implications of teacher absenteeism are incommensurable. While absenteeism is a longstanding issue in education, there is a gap in the current literature addressing teachers’ mental health and absenteeism after schools reopened following the first wave of the COVID-19 virus. This qualitative descriptive study is anchored on the Job Demands-Job Resources (JD-R) model of organizational stress and well-being. The purpose of the study was twofold: a) to describe teacher absenteeism related to teachers’ mental health stemming from the pandemic’s stressful job demands after schools reopened in the school year 2021-2022 in two Eastern regions of the U.S., and b) to describe the availability of job resources such as administrative mental health support after schools reopened in the school year 2021-2022 in two Eastern regions of the U.S. The study sample consisted of 12 educators: Four teachers and eight administrators were selected using a purposive sample strategy. Semi-structured interviews were carefully designed to extract relevant data in alignment with the research questions. Thematic data analysis was conducted based on the study’s method and design. The study results revealed four themes: New and strenuous job demands, teachers’ mental health decline, mental health absenteeism, and availability of mental health administrative support to mitigate mental health absenteeism.&lt;/i&gt;

Enhancing Transition to Nursing Practice: The Mental Health Immersion Experience.

The number of people facing mental health issues continues to grow in the aftermath of COVID-19. Nurses are challenged with providing care for an increasing number of patients, including veterans, with complex mental health needs across healthcare settings. Of concern, many students transitioning into practice feel they lack the necessary confidence, education, and skills to competently care for patients with mental health illness. This article discusses an innovative mental health immersion experience strategically integrated within a new-nurse residency program.

Mapping global value chain, production network, and commodity chain literature using scientometrics: an integrative resilient value chains model based on a review of the literature

PurposeGlobal value chains (GVCs) are facing unprecedented pressures arising from structural changes in the global economy and exogenous shocks including military conflicts and the aftermath of COVID-19. Considering the importance of value chain analysis in the current environment, the purpose of the study is to provide an up-to-date overarching global value chain literature review study that offers suggestions for research and practice to ensure resilient value and supply chains.Design/methodology/approachThe authors provide a comprehensive review of literature of the value chain, commodity chain and production network research based on a systems overview of 5,628 publications to identify the extent of research on vulnerabilities and resilience of value chains globally and gaps therein. To provide the systems overview, the authors use scientometric content co-occurrence analysis methods to analyze and identify gaps within the existing literature.FindingsBased on this overarching review of the literature, the authors identify gaps in the literature primarily related to the issue of unpreparedness of value chains to exogenous shocks. The authors suggest future research directions and propose an integrative model along with recommendations for restructuring value chains for resilience amidst exogenous shocks.Originality/valueThis study carries out an overarching study of interdisciplinary GVC literature in the age of geopolitical and societal challenges and is thus able to offer holistic insights and propositions for future research.

The College Campus, a Place of Learning, and a Place of Healing

The COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath have precipitated a marked increase in mental health needs among college students. Lockdowns, the sudden shift to remote learning, and social distancing mandates have compounded existing challenges, highlighting a trend that has evolved over the past two decades. Despite heightened demand for mental health support, colleges struggle to meet these needs amid the emotional aftermath of COVID-19 effectively. Recognizing the pivotal role of higher education institutions in shaping future leaders and addressing and enhancing the mental well-being of the college community is imperative to foster an environment conducive to learning and healing. This paper will review current literature on mental health within college campuses, examining multifaceted contributors to mental health challenges. Additionally, it aims to provide college practitioners with campus-wide strategies to support students, faculty, and staff, acknowledging the interconnectedness of the entire college community.