Midst Of COVID-19 Pandemic Research Articles

A Causal Model of Learning Loss in the Midst of COVID-19 Pandemic Among Thai Lower Secondary School Students

<p style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:Cambria,serif"><span style="font-size:9.0pt">It is known that the COVID-19 pandemic led to learning losses among students both domestically and internationally. Therefore, situational and casual factors were examined to discover and understand them so that learning loss could be reduced or recovered from. This research aimed to: (a) study learning loss situation; and (b) develop and examine the causal model of learning loss among lower secondary school students affected by the pandemic. The sample included 650 Grade 7-9 students selected by multi-stage random sampling. The data was collected using a self-developing questionnaire as a research instrument. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent samples t-test, ANOVA, and structural equation modeling (SEM) through the LISREL program. The findings were: (a) Lower secondary school students had an average academic achievement learning loss at the moderate level with the highest mean of learning loss in mathematics (<em>M</em>=3.012, <em>SD</em>=1.074), and an average learning characteristics learning loss at the medium level (<em>M</em>=2.824, <em>SD</em>=0.842). Several situational factors had a different effect depending on the school size with a statistical significance of .05.; and (b) the causal model showed the learning loss of grade 7-9 students was consistent with the empirical data (χ2=46.885, <em>df</em>=34, <em>p</em>= .069, GFI=0.991, AGFI=0.964, CFI=0.999, RMSEA=0.024, SRMR=0.014).</span></span></span></p>

We Heal as One, We Rise as One: the Rise of Community Pantries in the Midst of COVID-19 Pandemic in Northern Philippines

Many Filipinos, especially those from the poorest sectors, have struggled to secure their livelihoods as a result of the pandemic restrictions, and have gone hungry as a result of food system disruptions and inadequate food help from the local government. Hence, various individuals, private corporations, and organizations have emerged with various initiatives to aid fellow Filipinos in need in an effort to strengthen the current situation and address the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The latest Community Pantry Initiatives in different parts of the Philippines are examples of this emergence. Due to this fact, the researchers conducted this study to explore the experiences of community pantry organizers and volunteers in the Mainland Cagayan Valley region. Basic qualitative research design was utilized in this study. Through purposive sampling, a total of 15 informants from the Mainland Cagayan Valley region participated in this study. The data was gathered by engaging in an online interview with the use of open-ended questions. The results revealed three major recurring themes, to wit: (1) Description of Organized Community Pantries among Informants; (2) Reasons for Organizing Community Pantries; and (3) Experiences of Community Pantry Organizers and Volunteers. In conclusion, this study highlights the different community pantries that were organized, the reasons as to why organizers implemented such an initiative, the increased civic engagement of the youth, the promotion of pro-social behaviors among the whole citizenry, and the positive and negative experiences of both community pantry organizers and volunteers

First successful neonatal primary repair of esophageal atresia with distal tracheoesophageal fistula in Belize

Esophageal atresia repair represents the epitome of Pediatric Surgery and it is considered as an indicator of the level of quality of any Surgical Neonatal Service. This article describes the first case completely and successfully treated in Belize, and it is focused on its management strategies. In the midst of COVID-19 pandemic, a full-term male neonate, adequate for gestational age and withnormal birth weight was referred to Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and diagnosed with esophageal atresia with distal tracheoesophageal fistula. Primary repair was performed through open thoracotomy, closing the tracheoesophageal fistula and completing end to end esophageal anastomosis with minimal tension. A minor anastomotic leak was identified on postoperative day 9, which was initially managed conservatively but required surgical repair 5 days after, using a pedicled intercostal muscle flap over the re-sutured esophagus. The patient recovered completely with no midterm complications. It is feasible to perform complex neonatal surgical repair such as the AE/TEF in small countries like Belize, when both an experienced surgical team and adequate neonatal intensive care are available. Proper management of major surgical complications is essentialto achieve good results.

Whatsapp Based Learning In The Midst Of Covid-19 Pandemic: A Field Study In Mi Shibyanul Islamiyah Jember

Whatsapp Based Learning In The Midst Of Covid-19 Pandemic: A Field Study In Mi Shibyanul Islamiyah Jember

Citra Politik Kandidat Walikota Semarang dalam Instagram: Analisis Dramaturgi pada Pilwakot Semarang 2020

This article aims to analyze the political image of Hendrar Prihadi (Hendi), incumbent mayoral candidate of Semarang 2020 election shown on Instagram @hendrarprihadi in the midst of covid-19 pandemic. If most candidates concoct political slogans and deliver campaign promises, Hendi’s Instagram portrays more amusing content with a minimum amount of campaign messages. Dramaturgy theory used to analyze framing processes on Instagram as frontstage, and what backstage and offstage factors could affect this single candidate manage to get 91,4% of votes, even though activists consider election in the midst of pandemic as less humane, and single candidate could lower voters’ turnover. Qualitative analysis data collected from interviews and articles shows that amusing content on Hendi’s Instagram designed to pacify the public affected by covid-19, followers are easily extracted by amusing content, and as a method to sheer away from sensitive political issues. Backstage, although Semarang reported as the highest contributor of covid-19 cases in Indonesia, and numbers of rule violation campaigns, candidate characteristic, leadership, incumbent status, and also relation with public and political figure be the several things making candidate’s political image more stable, affecting candidate winning the 2020 Semarang Mayoral Election.

He Is Living In Fear, but Indifferent To COVID-19: A Case Report

Illness anxiety disorder (IAD) or previously known as hypochondriasis in DSM-IV is a psychiatric disorder characterized by excessive preoccupation with acquiring a serious illness. In the midst of COVID-19 pandemic, it could have exaggerated one’s pre-existing anxiety symptoms. We intend to report a person with IAD, but indifferent to COVID-19. This is a middle- ged man with multiple medical conditions who often attribute his physical symptoms to malignancy or life-threatening illnesses, resulting in frequent visits to multiple hospitals and consulting many physicians for his physical symptoms. Despite correlations of clinical findings and investigations that revealed no abnormalities as explained by his attending doctors, he was still not assured or convinced, and was often preoccupied with his physical symptoms. This paper aims to highlight the patient’s indifferent attitude towards the ongoing pandemic given that his preoccupation towards his physical complaints can be debilitating.

AN OVERVIEW OF PSYCHLOGICAL PERCEPTION, PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS, AND COPING STRATEGY OF YPPM AL-MUTTAQIEN TEACHERS IN BALIKPAPAN AGAINST COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Introduction: The change of education system during COVID-19 pandemic was a big challenge for teachers. These changes can lead to exhaustion for teachers, as happened to some elementary school teachers in Banten. A long period of exhaustion can develop into psychological distress such as anxiety, stress, and depression. This psychological distress can be controlled by implementing appropriate coping strategies for each individual. This study aims to describe the psychological perceptions, psychological distress, and coping strategies of teachers of YPPM Al-Muttaqien Balikpapan city in the midst of COVID-19 pandemic. Method: This research used quantitative descriptive method with cross sectional design. The research subjects were 17 respondents who were determined using the total sampling method. The variables of the study included individual characteristics, psychological perceptions, psychological distress, and coping strategies variable. The data analysis technique was performed using univariate analysis. Result: showed that there were 15 respondents who felt anxious about the COVID-19 pandemic. From 15 respondents, 3 people experienced moderate anxiety, 1 experienced moderate stress, and 2 experienced mild depression. Of the 2 respondents who admitted that they were not worried about the COVID-19 pandemic, 1 of them experienced mild depression. As many as 58.8% of respondents tended to use the EFC (Emotion Focused Coping) coping strategy and 41.2% used the PFC (Problem Focused Coping) coping strategy. Conclusion: The sub-coping most frequently used by respondents is planful problem solving and accepting responsibility.

Adverse Effects of Online Education on Student Engagement during Covid-19: Review, Synthesis and Research Agenda

The study reviews the relationship between ethical consideration and student engagement with reference to online education among school, under graduate, and post graduate learners. COVID-19 outbreak has changed the way education been delivered. The exploratory research suggests a conceptual framework which can be adapted by schools and educational institutions to address to the concerns of students like stress, anxiety, and ethics. Online teaching strategies should ensure emotional, cognitive, and social engagement among student managers leading to ideal teacher-student and student-student interactive environment. The future research is expected to establish a relationship between student engagement and ethical consideration and role of mediators like stress and anxiety negatively affecting online learning. In the midst of COVID-19 pandemic, higher educational institutions should be equipped with content and resources that are leading to learning outcomes.

Organization of a Major International Sporting Event in the Midst of Covid-19 Pandemic in Eastern India: An Observational Review Detailing Health and Safety Measures

Sports have been long neglected in our country both in terms of excelling in any sport and hosting events. Even if the country hosts, usually the opportunity goes to the capital city or other metros. Covid 19 pandemic had further compounded the stalemate over the last two years due to evidence against crowd events. But, Odisha state has taken everyone by surprise by hosting the World cup men’s hockey and the study is a basic descriptive observational showcase of health-related safety measures that were ascertained during the matches. The event not only let 3 cities in the state namely Bhubaneswar, Rourkela, and Cuttack get a makeover in terms of tourist destinations but also a fast track check was done on the safety preparations within the stadium. Tool used was a self-devised pre-tested checklist as per Event management standards and the results were that almost international standards were adhered to in terms of crowd management for parking, entry points, sitting arrangements, water, and toilets. Covid appropriate behavior was disregarded due to zero case reporting for over a year. Public was also satisfied with the preparedness and there was a renewed enthusiasm for sports for all age groups, which was a welcome sight after the restricted activity during Covid. The state has taken baby steps towards establishing itself on the Global map as a state that could take up Global sporting events effortlessly. It has added advantage of propagating the rich heritage and culture of the state as well as promoting sports among the public.

Fear of COVID-19 and Fear of Earthquake: Multiple Distressing Events and Well-Being in Croatia.

People in Croatia have recently experienced two major earthquakes in the midst of COVID-19 pandemic, which are possible sources of increased fear. In order to capture and understand the effects of the simultaneously occurring threatening events, the aims of this study were threefold. First, we aimed to examine the psychometric properties and factor structure of the Croatian version of the Fear of COVID-19 scale (FCV-19S). Second, bearing in mind that there is a lack of instruments for measuring fear of earthquakes, the study aimed to develop and examine the psychometric properties the Fear of Earthquake Scale (FES), as a version of FCV-19S, modified for the earthquake experience. Finally, the study aimed to examine differences in well-being indicators (life satisfaction, positive and negative affect) between four groups of participants who either had/did not have COVID-19 disease or had experienced/did not have experienced earthquake. The study was conducted among 1136 participants adults who took part in the fourth year of the Croatian longitudinal study on well-being. Among them, N = 665 participants experienced earthquake and responded to additional questions regarding that experience. The analyses demonstrated valid psychometric properties and one-factorial structure of FCV-19S and FES scales. The findings showed that people who went through earthquake experience (vs. those without earthquake experience and COVID-19 infection) reported higher negative affect and lower positive affect, indicating that people in Croatia seem to have been more fearful of earthquakes than COVID-19 pandemic. Findings suggest the long-term negative effects of earthquake on fear and well-being in comparison to COVID-19 pandemic.

The Development of Interactive English Multimedia in Tourism Vocational Education as an Adaptive Learning Strategy in the Midst of Covid-19 Pandemic

The online learning process on tourism vocational education during COVID-19 pandemic has been observed to be nonoptimal in Indonesia. Lack of educators’ knowledge and skills in creating interactive media was the obstacle, where at vocational education, more practice was required rather than theoretical materials delivery. The idea of “digital for everything” was introduced as the standard phase of work. This world has forced by Covid-19 pandemic to the digitalization. This study has two objectives, first to identify barriers in learning process, and second, to develop interactive English multimedia. This research was designed as R&D method. The research subjects involved media and contents experts as alpha test subjects. Alpha test results were used as the basis for the first revision. Participation of PIB students with high, medium, and low abilities were used as beta test subjects. The final product was validated by the validator team, then applied in the learning process. The results showed there was an increase in student satisfaction from moderate (5.81) to very good (8.21) when lecturers apply interactive multimedia using videos, animations and other interactive multimedia. Developed interactive English for tourism multimedia was effective during COVID-19 pandemic and can be accessed by students anywhere and anytime.

Automated System for Multiplexing Detection of COVID-19 and Other Respiratory Pathogens.

Infectious diseases are global health challenge, impacted the communities worldwide particularly in the midst of COVID-19 pandemic. The need of rapid and accurate automated systems for detecting pathogens of concern has always been critical. Ideally, such systems shall detect a large panel of pathogens simultaneously regardless of well-equipped facilities and highly trained operators, thus realizing on-site diagnosis for frontline healthcare providers and in critical locations such as borders and airports. Avalon Automated Multiplex System, AAMST, is developed to automate a series of biochemistry protocols to detect nucleic acid sequences from multiple pathogens in one test. Automated processes include isolation of nucleic acids from unprocessed samples, reverse transcription and two rounds of amplifications. All procedures are carried out in a microfluidic cartridge performed by a desktop analyzer. The system was validated with reference controls and showed good agreement with their laboratory counterparts. In total 63 clinical samples, 13 positives including those from COVID-19 patients and 50 negative cases were detected, consistent with clinical diagnosis using conventional laboratory methods. The proposed system has demonstrated promising utility. It would benefit the screening and diagnosis of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases in a simple, rapid and accurate fashion. Clinical and Translational Impact Statement- A rapid and multiplex diagnostic system proposed in this work can clinically help to control spread of COVID-19 and other infectious agents as it can provide timely diagnosis, isolation and treatment to patients. Using the system at remoted clinical sites can facilitate early clinical management and surveillance.

UNDERSTANDING CHALLENGES AND STRENGTHS EXPERIENCED BY CHINESE AMERICAN FAMILY CAREGIVERS OF PERSONS WITH DEMENTIA

Abstract Chinese American family caregivers of persons with dementia are often challenged by barriers to utilize caregiving support services due to language barriers, minimal understanding of dementia, limited numbers of culturally competent health care providers, as well as conflicting cultural norms, such as the disease related stigma. Subsequently, a delayed diagnosis and a hesitance to seek social support services and formal resources are prevalent among Chinese American families caring for persons with dementia. However, the resilience of these caregivers is often noted as a strength of this sub-population. We aimed to identify the challenges and strengths expressed by Chinese American family caregivers caring for persons with dementia by exploring their caregiving experiences. Using a qualitative study design, we conducted semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 26 Chinese American family caregivers of persons with dementia during the midst of COVID-19 pandemic. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Two themes emerged as challenges: lack of knowledge regarding early signs of dementia and family caregivers’ social isolation and loneliness. Two additional themes emerged as demonstrated strengths: utilizing technology throughout the caregiving trajectory and family caregivers’ helping behaviors. Our findings indicate potential to promote disease-related education and reduce feelings of social isolation and loneliness among Chinese family caregivers caring for persons with dementia by using technology and peer-led approaches. The examined coping strategies of Chinese American caregivers may be leveraged across disciplines to increase disease related knowledge, rates of early diagnosis, as well as the utilization of formal supports and resources.

Role of virtual modality for stroke caregivers in facilitating stroke survivors and assessing their perceptions in the midst of COVID-19 pandemic

Background: Stroke survivors become either partially or completely dependent on their family members for assistance. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has created a new set of challenges for caregiving, due to government-imposed lockdowns. In the current crisis, the crucial role of virtual modality in stroke caregiving can no longer be ignored. Therefore, this review aims to report the utilization of virtual modality to facilitate stroke caregivers in delivering care to stroke survivors in this pandemic. Moreover, it will also assess the perceptions of stroke caregivers in managing stroke survivors during pandemic Methods: An electronic search was carried out between 1 December 2019 to 31 March 2022 to explore the role of virtual platforms to assess stroke caregivers’ perceptions and the use of a distant medium in managing stroke survivors’ care in the COVID-19 era by using four electronic data bases that includes PubMed, CINAHL Plus, Science Direct, and Cochrane. Results The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly complicated the stroke caregiver’s life and their ability to deliver care. Therefore, utilizing virtual medium serves as a unique supplemental resource in warranting patient care continuity. The current review provides evidence for the integration of distant modality in facilitating stroke caregivers to manage stroke survivors and it also assesses their perception during pandemic. Conclusion: The current review provides limited but encouraging data that promotes the efficacy of virtual models in healthcare. It was identified that distant healthcare services are suitable and accessible for the provision of care to the community of stroke caregivers during this pandemic.

ANALISIS TINDAKAN SOSIAL DALAM PERISTIWA PENOLAKAN VAKSIN

The purpose of this article is to analyze the phenomenon of Covid-19 vaccine rejection among Indonesia society which occurred in the midst of Covid-19 pandemic. This research uses qualitative approach by employing secondary data related to the phenomenon of Covid-19 vaccine rejection. This article itself brings the concept of social action offered by Max Weber as a conceptual framework. The main finding of this research is that there are various reasons behind the phenomenon of Covid-19 vaccine rejection. Those reasons portray the rich variety of meanings which also mean that there are many socio-cultural contexts behind it. Therefore, we need the appropriate strategy to face such phenomenon. Thus, the goals of Covid-19 vaccine promotion could be reached well.

Secondary Students' Perceptions on Learning Management System in the Midst of Covid-19 Pandemic

The breakthrough of using Learning Management System (LMS) is urgently required nowadays midst pandemic era to boost the outcome of teaching learning. Such facts proved that the provided LMS are felt to be difficult and complicated that students are discouraged to operate them. Therefore, this paper aimed at exploring students’ perceptions about the implementation of LMS used. It was sequential explanatory mixed-method research design involved 48 students from various secondary schools in Semarang as the samples. The questionnaire distributed using Google Form was then analyzed to identify their perceptions about LMS quantitatively and qualitatively. The result shows that the highest need was about the need of platform which covers a synchronous learning process (63%) and interaction between students and students, both in small groups and large groups (60%), also platform that has been equipped with facilities/menus that accommodate students in order to improve their critical thinking habits (54%). As solution, they need platform which has more interesting menu options so as to make students not to be bored in the learning process (54%), they also need simple platforms covering synchronous and asynchronous activities (54%). They even need platform which has menus where teachers can give feedback or correction on students’ work independently both in small and large groups. Therefore, the findings of this study incite the researchers to design a Hybrid Smart Learning System in order to fulfil the students’ need and build students’ metacognition.
 Keywords: Students’ perceptions, LMS, secondary schools, covid-19 pandemic

IMPAK BEBAN TUGAS, KONFLIK PERANAN DAN HUBUNGAN INTERPERSONAL KE ATAS KESEIMBANGAN KERJA DAN KEHIDUPAN DALAM KALANGAN PENJAWAT AWAM DI SABAH

One aspect of employment which has been receiving attention from researchers and practitioners especially in the midst of COVID-19 pandemic is work-life balance. In the process of achieving this work-life balance, attention needs to be given to factors related to the organization. This study was conducted to examine three factors related to the organization namely workload, role conflict and interpersonal relationships and their impact on the employees’ work-life balance in the public sector. This study employed survey and questionnaire methods as research instruments. A total of 118 respondents were involved in this study and the results of the study analysis revealed that workload and interpersonal relationships have a significant relationship with work-life balance. However, the findings demonstrated that there are other factors that need to be given attention and studied in more detail such as factors related to individuals and other organizational factors.

Manajemen Sumberdaya dalam Strategi Pengelolaan Limbah Medis Rumah Sakit Islam Kota Malang di Masa Pandemi Covid-19

Resource management in the management of medical waste is a cruicial issue in the midst of Covid-19 pandemic. This study aims to analyze the management of hazardous and toxic waste management resources at the Islamic Hospital (RSI) Malang City by adopting descriptive research through a qualitative approach. Findings of this study found a discrepancy between the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and the realization of activities in the field, especially when there was a surge in Covid-19 patients due to the rapid increase in waste generation. This leads the delays in transportation which results in the accumulation of waste. Delays in transporting waste has potential to cause environmental pollution. Hence, it is necesarry to conduct a review of SPO to deal with the threat of Covid-19 spike in the future.

English language learning in response to the COVID-19 pandemic: Hong Kong English as a Second Language students’ perceptions of Badaboom!

In the midst of COVID-19 pandemic, many university courses delivered in English are conducted entirely online. However, if we continue using traditional teaching strategies and the same set of teaching materials, it would be extremely difficult for students, regardless of age, to focus in a 2- or 3-h synchronous online class. As such, many researchers and educators are exploring different ways to engage students in today’s digitally connected world. This article explores how English as a Second Language (ESL) undergraduate students come up with emergency remote learning at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using exploratory research design, one hundred university students from five English for Academic Purpose (EAP) classes who experienced blended learning using Badaboom!, a Game-based Student Response System (GSRS), for one semester were recruited to participate in the research. 30 students were interviewed to collect the data. The interview aimed to detail their responses so their strategies can be mapped clearly. The data reveal that the tertiary-level learners of this study feel that game-based classroom response system is useful for assisting them in overcoming ESL academic writing difficulties. The study reflects that, most students favour the interactivity and engagement afforded by Badaboom! due to the strong instructor-student and student-student interaction as well as students’ increased engagement.

Migrants in the Midst of the COVID-19 Pandemic

In this article, I discuss the various issues confronting migrants in the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, in particular, the language issues which they encounter. And then, I point out lessons to be learned from these issues and draw implications and suggest recommendations relating to language in the context of migration, ultimately outlining a ‘crisis and emergency language competence and plan for migrants’. I argue that there is a great need to reflect on and rethink how language and language resources are used in times during the COVID-19 pandemic in view of the migrants around the world. In this article, I therefore conjecture on the pandemic from a migration linguistic perspective, an interdisciplinary and multidimensional approach to the study of language in the context of migration.