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The purpose of this study was to examine mental health problems and sleep quality among undergraduate students in the post-COVID-19 era, as well as related factors. This cross-sectional study involved 627 undergraduate students from Chiang Mai University in northern Thailand between October and December 2022. Data were collected using a self-administered online questionnaire that included the General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12), the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale (CES-D), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). The study found that 57.9% of participants experienced mental health problems (95% CI: 54.0–61.8), 32.2% experienced depression (95% CI: 28.5–35.9), and 68.1% reported poor sleep quality (95% CI: 64.4–71.8). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that medical conditions, relationships with family members, relationships with friends or other people, having problems while studying at university, and self-perceived COVID-19 impact score were all associated with mental health problems and poor sleep quality (p < 0.05). Depression was associated with the field of study, relationships with family members, relationships with friends or other people, having problems while studying at university, and self-perceived COVID-19 impact score (p < 0.05). The findings highlight a significant occurrence of poor sleep and mental health issues, including depression, among undergraduate students in the post-COVID-19 era, underscoring the need for ongoing mental health monitoring and interventions to mitigate negative outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is linked to an increased risk of post-acute sequelae affecting the pulmonary and extrapulmonary organ systems. Up to 20% of COVID-19 patients may proceed to a more serious form, such as severe pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), or pulmonary fibrosis. Still, the majority of patients may only have mild, self-limiting sickness. Of particular concern is the possibility of parenchymal fibrosis and lung dysfunction in long-term COVID-19 patients. Furthermore, it has been observed that up to 43% of individuals hospitalized with COVID-19 also had acute renal injury (AKI). Care for kidney, brain, lung, cardiovascular, liver, ocular, and tissue injuries should be included in post-acute COVID-19 treatment. As a powerful immunomodulatory tool in regenerative medicine, dental stem cells (DSCs) have drawn much interest. Numerous immune cells and cytokines are involved in the excessive inflammatory response, which also has a significant effect on tissue regeneration. A unique reservoir of stem cells (SCs) for treating acute lung injury (ALI), liver damage, neurological diseases, cardiovascular issues, and renal damage may be found in tooth tissue, according to much research. Moreover, a growing corpus of in vivo research is connecting DSC-derived extracellular vesicles (DSC-EVs), which are essential paracrine effectors, to the beneficial effects of DSCs. DSC-EVs, which contain bioactive components and therapeutic potential in certain disorders, have been shown as potentially effective therapies for tissue damage after COVID-19. Consequently, we explore the properties of DSCs in this work. Next, we'll look at how SARS-CoV-2 affects tissue damage. Lastly, we have looked at the use of DSCs and DSC-EVs in managing COVID-19 and chronic tissue damage, such as injury to the heart, brain, lung, and other tissues. Stem cells obtained from various dental tissues, including dental pulp stem cells, dental follicle stem cells, periodontal ligament stem cells, and exfoliated deciduous teeth stem cells, along with extracellular vesicles derived from dental stem cells, possess distinct capabilities such as immunomodulation, regeneration, and potent anti-inflammatory effects. These properties make them suitable for treating different types of tissue injuries resulting from COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite numerous studies conducted by various research teams, predicting long-term outcomes (known as Post-COVID-19 Syndrome, PCS) that may result from Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) remains challenging. PCS affects over a million people, primarily those with comorbid conditions. Therefore, it is crucial to undertake research aimed at developing a predictive model for early diagnosis of PCS, which in turn would enable faster preventive actions. The aim of this study was to assess the value of measuring and attempt a quantitative evaluation using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) tests of three non-serum proteins, whose presence in the blood during COVID-19 was associated with severe disease progression: neutrophil elastase (NE), calcium-binding protein S100B, and neuron-specific enolase (NSE). The concentrations of these proteins were measured in blood serum samples collected before the COVID-19 pandemic from (1) patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM); (2) advanced stage diabetic nephropathy (NfT2DM); (3) a healthy group; and in blood serum samples collected two years after recovering from COVID-19 from patients with (4) T2DM and (5) NfT2DM. It was found that elevated levels of NE and NSE were significantly more common (p < 0.05) in patients with NfT2DM after recovering from COVID-19 compared to the other groups, while elevated levels of S100B were significantly more frequently observed in patients with T2DM after recovering from COVID-19 (p < 0.05). Demonstrating differences in the prevalence of NE, NSE, and S100B in individuals who recovered from COVID-19 with T2DM and NfT2DM makes these proteins important components of the developing predictive model for early detection of PCS. To our knowledge, this is the first study showing the significance of NE, NSE, and S100B in PCS in the context of T2DM and NfT2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the inter-reliability of the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), the 1-min Sit to Stand test (1-MSTS), and the Chester Step Test (CST) via remote assessment in post-COVID-19 patients after hospitalization. Methods: Twenty-five post-COVID-19 patients randomly performed the functional tests via remote assessment using a software platform at home and via face-to-face assessment at the rehabilitation center 24–72 h apart. One day before the remote assessment, all participants had a 1-h guidance session regarding the platform use, safety instructions, and home equipment preparation. Results: Participants completed all tests for both assessment procedures without experience of adverse events. The mean age was 53 (SD = 10) years old, and the median days of hospitalization were 23 (IQR = 10–33). The inter-reliability was moderate for the total score in the SPPB: Cohen's kappa = 0.545 (95% CI: 0.234 to 0.838), excellent for the number of repetitions in the 1-MSTS: ICC = 0.977 (95% CI: 0.948 to 0.990) and good for the total number of steps in the CST: ICC = 0.871 (95% CI: 0.698 to 0.944). Conclusion: Remote functional assessments for SPPB, 1-MSTS, and CST indicated moderate to excellent inter-reliability in post-COVID-19 patients after hospitalization. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: Functional performance assessment in post-COVID-19 patients is considered important throughout the whole process of rehabilitation. The face-to-face assessment is the standard practice in the rehabilitation clinical setting however, new approaches by distance assessment are proposed when physical attendance is not feasible. The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), the 1-minute Sit to Stand test (1-MSTS), and the Chester Step Test (CST) showed moderate to excellent reliability when performed remotely at home in post-COVID-19 patients after hospitalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the current status and workload of telenursing by home healthcare nurses in the post-COVID-19 era, where telenursing has become indispensable, and identify factors that influence the intention to use telenursing. This study employed a cross-sectional descriptive approach based on an online survey. A total of 137 active home care nurses were surveyed for over 6 weeks starting in December 2022. Among the participants, 33.8% (N = 44) responded that they were currently using telenursing services. Most telenursing was conducted for consultation and education, using various technologies. The intention to use telenursing was significantly higher among individuals with higher educational levels and telenursing experience. The greater the social influence, which indicates the extent to which people around them believe that telenursing should be used, and more positive the attitudes toward telenursing, the higher the intention to use it. A clear definition of telenursing is required to improve people's understanding of telenursing before its official implementation in Korea. Telenursing may be used to provide health care education and consultation while maintaining the continuity of care not only for patients receiving home health care but also for community-dwelling patients. To recognize and evaluate current telenursing practices, telenursing content should be recorded accurately. Finally, attitudes toward telenursing and social influence must be considered when developing strategies to improve nurses' intentions to use and activate telenursing in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic had tremendously impacted the tourism sector. The worldwide movement restrictions implemented during the pandemic had put a halt on international travel and changed tourists' travel behaviour. Tourism Malaysia reported a great drop in the country's tourism revenue for 2020 and 2021, resulting from the COVID-19 hit. To cope with the catastrophic effects of the pandemic on tourism performance, domestic tourism has been the main focus to draw local tourists' attention away from the hazards of uncertainty. In this context, the stakeholders' understanding of Malaysian tourists' travel behaviour intentions following this catastrophe is vital to develop long-term recovery strategies and ensuring the sustainability of the tourism industry, moving forward. Studies which attempt to discover tourists' travel behaviour intentions, especially in light of COVID-19's unprecedented impact on Malaysians, are still very limited in number. This study, therefore, investigated the factors that affected Malaysian tourists' travel behaviour intentions after the COVID-19 pandemic. Relying on the enhanced Theory of Planned Behaviour, the factors constraining travel such as attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behaviour control, and perceived risks, which are highly related to tourists' travel behavioural intentions, were selected. Through a quantitative research approach, questionnaires were distributed to Malaysian tourists. The total sample size was 300 respondents. The findings demonstrate that most of the Malaysian tourists' travel behavioural intentions were affected by attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behaviour control, and perceived risks. However, perceived behaviour control was found to have the greatest impact on Malaysian tourists' travel behaviour intentions, followed by attitude, subjective norms, and perceived dangers. It was revealed that their travel behaviour intentions were influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, considering the travel behaviour intentions of the Malaysian tourists, a comprehensive plan must be devised to enable stakeholders involved in tourism recovery post-COVID-19 to develop focused marketing or promotional strategies to generate significant influence and return on investment in order to stimulate the performance of the tourism industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding emerging trends in the hospitality industry is essential to provide exceptional guest experiences, as guest preferences and needs are constantly evolving. However, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on these trends and how experts perceive and observe them in the post-pandemic era remain relatively underexplored. This study employed a webinar analysis to examine expert insights on post-COVID-19 trends in the hospitality industry. Findings show that the pandemic has reshaped guest decision-making, with conscious business travel becoming a prominent consideration. Guests now prioritise informed choices and seek high-touch experiences. To remain relevant, hospitality operators must comprehend the evolving landscape and adapt to these changes. Through a new approach of webinar analysis, four publicly available webinars featuring industry experts were screened and analysed. This research contributes to the industry by identifying emerging trends and their implications for customer satisfaction. By understanding these trends, hospitality operators can enhance their services and foster resilient customer-focused strategies to withstand future crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the mechanism that contributes to travel intention in the field of virtual tourism. The overall research method is based on the "Stimulus-Organism-Response" theory. In the research model, the effects of content quality, system quality, and interaction quality in virtual tourism on tourism experience and travel intention are explored, as well as the role of virtual attachment and travel intention. A total of 390 respondents were invited to participate in a virtual tourism experience, and provide feedback through a questionnaire. SmartPLS 3.3.2 was used to validate the causal model, and most of the study hypotheses were supported. The findings show that virtual tourism significantly promotes travel intention. Specifically, content quality, system quality, and interaction quality positively affect tourists' travel intention through the complementary mediations of tourism experience and virtual attachment; and system quality even directly promotes travel intention. However, tourism experience does not affect virtual attachment. The present study extends prior studies on virtual tourism with SOR as a general model for field tourism experience research, while demonstrating the effectiveness of virtual tourism in promoting tourists' travel intention. The results are useful in assisting governments with developing relevant policies and services, as well as helping tourism companies understand virtual tourism as an enhancement for tourist travel intention, thus contributing to the recovery of the tourism industry in the post-COVID-19 era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study explores the health information needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their caregivers in the post-COVID-19 era by analyzing discussions from Reddit, a popular social media platform. Methods: Utilizing a mixed-method approach that integrates qualitative content analysis with quantitative sentiment analysis, we analyzed user-generated content from the "r/autism" subreddit to identify recurring themes and sentiments. Results: The qualitative analysis uncovered key themes, including symptoms, diagnostic challenges, caregiver experiences, treatment options, and stigma, reflecting the diverse concerns within the ASD community. The quantitative sentiment analysis revealed a predominance of positive sentiment across discussions, although significant instances of neutral and negative sentiments were also present, indicating varied experiences and perspectives among community members. Among the machine learning models used for sentiment classification, the Bi-directional Long Short-Term Memory (Bi-LSTM) model achieved the highest performance, demonstrating a validation accuracy of 95.74%. Conclusions: The findings highlight the need for improved digital platforms and community resources to address the specific health information needs of the ASD community, particularly in enhancing access to reliable information and fostering supportive environments. These insights can guide future interventions and policies aimed at improving the well-being of autistic persons and their caregivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most adverse outcomes of the COVID-19 pandemic include high post-infection mortality among long-term care (LTC) home residents. Research about mortality over a longer period after contracting COVID-19 and in different pandemic years is limited. In the current study, we examined outcomes for 1,596 LTC residents from the day of a positive COVID-19 test until January 31, 2023. We reported all-cause mortality 30 days after contracting COVID-19 and monthly throughout the follow-up, up to 35 months after the pandemic start. We also examined mortality among 2,724 residents residing in the same LTC homes, with no history of COVID-19 during the same period. The results underscored a large number of deaths in the first month post-infection, with 30-day mortality substantially decreasing over the years—from 28% (95% CI [24.3, 31.8]) among residents contracting COVID-19 in 2020, to 8.3% (95% CI [7.4, 9.2]) in the 2022 cohort. Observed over longer periods, monthly mortality among residents with a COVID-19 history was similar to mortality in the No-COVID residents, and no evidence was found of increased mortality risk in the COVID group beyond the first post-infection month. We discuss mortality in LTC during the pandemic and a continuing need to reduce mortality in the acute phase of COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hearing loss (HL) is one of the most common chronic conditions after hypertension and arthritis. Mounting indices suggest that sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) may be one of the adverse effects of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. Objective: This work aimed at studying SNHL in post-COVID-19 patients, alongside with exploring the relationship between severity of the disease and degree of hearing disability. Materials and methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted at Al-Azhar University Hospitals, Cairo, Egypt. It included 100 post-COVID-19 patients selected according to the study inclusion and exclusion criteria. Pure tone audiometry was done to confirm the presence of HL and to determine its degree. Results: Hundred patients with recent oncent hearing symptoms after documented COVID-19 infection were included. Males (71%) were more affected than females (29%). The most of our cases had bilateral moderate HL (45%). Tinnitus was the most frequently associated otological symptom (96.96%). The time of HL onset varied from days to weeks (55% had time onset between 11-30 days post-confirmed infection). Higher thresholds were detected in all frequencies of affected ears with more deterioration of hearing as frequencies increase. All degrees of HL were detected; mild, moderate, severe and profound. There was no significant correlation between severity of COVID-19 infection and severity of HL. Conclusions: SNHL is one of the extrapulmonary complications of COVID-19. COVID-19 patients may develop hearing affection regardless the severity of the infection. It is recommended to assess hearing functions in patients after COVID-19 for early detection and proper management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly disrupted traditional education systems worldwide, prompting a rapid shift to online platforms and the emergence of innovative teaching strategies. This paper critically reviews the extensive body of research on post-COVID-19 education, focusing on the practical and feasible solutions proposed to maintain and enhance educational continuity. The review categorizes and examines studies on various approaches, including simulation-based training, project-based learning, and hybrid models, highlighting their effectiveness during and after the pandemic. Special attention is given to the role of information technology, the challenges faced by educators and students, and the importance of mental health support in the new educational landscape. The findings suggest that while digital tools such as virtual reality and 3D environments show promise, their implementation remains limited, particularly in resource-constrained settings. The study also identifies a significant gap in empirical research on these innovations in the post-pandemic era. Furthermore, the paper highlights the need for systemic changes in curriculum design, educator training, and policy development to address the long-term impacts of the pandemic on education. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, offering insights into how educational institutions can better prepare for future crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: The risk of cardiovascular complications due to SARS-CoV-2 are significantly increased within the first 6 months of the infection. Patients with COVID-19 have an increased risk of death, and there is evidence that many may experience a wide range of post-acute cardiovascular complications. Our work aims to provide an update on current clinical aspects of diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular manifestations during acute and long-term COVID-19. Recent Findings: SARS-CoV-2 has been shown to be associated with increased incidence of cardiovascular complications such as myocardial injury, heart failure, and dysrhythmias, as well as coagulation abnormalities not only during the acute phase but also beyond the first 30 days of the infection, associated with high mortality and poor outcomes. Cardiovascular complications during long-COVID-19 were found regardless of comorbidities such as age, hypertension, and diabetes; nevertheless, these populations remain at high risk for the worst outcomes during post-acute COVID-19. Emphasis should be given to the management of these patients. Treatment with low-dose oral propranolol, a beta blocker, for heart rate management may be considered, since it was found to significantly attenuate tachycardia and improve symptoms in postural tachycardia syndrome, while for patients on ACE inhibitors or angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARBs), under no circumstances should these medications be withdrawn. In addition, in patients at high risk after hospitalization due to COVID-19, thromboprophylaxis with rivaroxaban 10 mg/day for 35 days improved clinical outcomes compared with no extended thromboprophylaxis. Summary: In this work we provide a comprehensive review on acute and post-acute COVID-19 cardiovascular complications, symptomatology, and pathophysiology mechanisms. We also discuss therapeutic strategies for these patients during acute and long-term care and highlight populations at risk. Our findings suggest that older patients with risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and medical history of vascular disease have worse outcomes during acute SARS-CoV-2 infection and are more likely to develop cardiovascular complications during long-COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic is almost over, but its economic and business consequences will continue to be felt for years. There were already warnings of the need for an increased role of social marketing due to environmental and human health concerns. Still, experience from the pandemic has made it mandatory in many sectors. Faced with the consequences of the pandemic, many changes are being witnessed in the post-pandemic era in production, consumption, and consumer behaviour that this paper will explore. By reviewing the literature, the prospects, and challenges of social marketing in the post-COVID-19 era are examined, observing recent global trends. A systematic review of qualitative and quantitative evidence was done by browsing scientific papers and relevant literature. Findings suggest that social marketing is experiencing a reverse trend, which implies that reorienting production, consumption, and consumer behaviour is not happening as many would have expected in the post-COVID-19 period. According to the United Nations (UN) World Economic Situation and Prospects Report, the prospects for a robust global economic recovery remain dim due to the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which include persistent inflation, rising interest rates, and heightened uncertainties (UN News, 2023). The contribution of this paper is the findings and conclusions of policy measures in social marketing that are more reorienting in the long run than simply adopted in the short run. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Emerging evidence suggests that patients suffering from COVID-19 may experience neurocognitive symptoms. Furthermore, other studies indicate a probable association between leukocyte telomere length (LTL) and neurocognitive changes in subjects with post-COVID-19 condition. Our study was designed to determine the correlation between telomere length and cognitive changes in post-COVID-19 subjects. Methods: This study included 256 subjects, categorized based on SARS-CoV-2 infection from 2020 to 2023. In addition, subjects with a psychiatric diagnosis were considered. Moreover, the MoCA and MMSE scales were applied. Telomere length was determined using a polymerase chain reaction, and statistical analysis was employed using ANOVA and X2 tests. Results: We identified a decrease in LTL in individuals with post-COVID-19 conditions compared to those without SARS-CoV-2 infection (p ≤ 0.05). However, no association was found between LTL and cognitive impairment in the subjects post-COVID-19. Conclusions: The findings suggest that LTL is affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection. Nonetheless, this important finding requires further research by monitoring neurological changes in subjects with post-COVID condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The impact of COVID-19 on the educational systems across the globe was characterized by the shutdown of university education systems. In the post COVID-19 era, examining the prospect of on-line education becomes demanding with emphasis on promoting effective and uninterrupted university education sector in Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach: This study employed phenomenological and descriptive research design. The sample size for the study was 15, comprising university lecturers, students and school social workers. In-depth Interview (IDI) interview was the instrument for data collection. Findings: Findings revealed that university education in Nigeria was adversely disrupted by COVID-19 lockdown during the pandemic. Similarly, the study revealed that online education will facilitate effective and uninterrupted university education in post-COVID-19 era. Challenges such as lack of access to laptops, smartphones, reliable internet services, electricity etc. are major obstacles to an effective transition to online education in the post-COVID-19 University education era. The students lamented that poor knowledge of ICT by their lecturers and inclusivity of indigent/disabled students were major concerns. Originality/value: Revitalizing the education sector is a core concern for low-income countries. Online education presents the lasting solution to the constant interruption of university education in Africa. Promoting effective and uninterrupted university education is pegged on an adequate government education budgetary allocation targeted towards providing an enabling environment for online education to thrive. The study recommends that school social workers' engagement in the educational sector would help advocate for the availability of technological infrastructures and mainstreaming of the poor and disabled in the online education dispensation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To date there is no causal treatment for post-COVID syndrome, leaving symptomatic treatments as the primary recourse. However, the practical implementation and effectiveness of these interventions remain underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the utilization frequency of symptomatic therapies and patient-reported effectiveness across various treatment modalities at a German post-COVID center. Methods: As the baseline investigation we conducted a single-cohort retrospective study to analyze the frequency of symptomatic therapies among post-COVID patients who attended the post-COVID center of the University Hospital of Erlangen, between December 2022 to July 2023. Additionally, we administered a follow-up at least 3 months after the initial presentation, using a questionnaire to assess patient-reported improvements in post-COVID symptoms associated with the symptomatic therapies received. Results: Our study included 200 patients (mean age: 44.6 ± 12.6 years; 69.0% women; mean duration since acute infection: 15.3 ± 8.3 months). Pharmacotherapy was the predominant symptomatic treatment (79.5%), with psychotropic drugs (32.5%) and analgesics (31.5%) being the most frequently prescribed. Over half of the patients (55.5%) utilized vitamins and nutritional supplements. Hospital admission rates to acute care occurred in 35.5% of cases; 33.0% underwent inpatient rehabilitation and 31.0% pursued outpatient psychotherapy. Cardiologists (76.5%), pulmonologists (67.5%), and neurologists (65.5%) were the most consulted specialists. Therapies involving medical devices were infrequently employed (12.0%). In a follow-up questionnaire (response rate: 82.5%, 6.3 ± 2.2 months post-baseline), beta-blockers were the most effective pharmacological intervention with 31.5% of patients reporting strong to very strong symptom improvement, followed by antibiotics (29.6%). Furthermore, 33.0% of the patients perceived plasmapheresis to strongly alleviate symptoms. Only a small proportion of the sample attributed a strong or very strong symptom improvement to outpatient psychotherapy (11.0%). Conclusion: This study provides initial insights into symptomatic therapy utilization and patient-reported symptom improvement in post-COVID syndrome. Further research into symptoms clusters and interdisciplinary collaboration are warranted to comprehensively address the multifaceted physical and psychological symptomatology. Trial registration: The study was registered at the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS-ID: DRKS00033621) on March 20, 2024. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Non-specific neck and shoulder pain (NSNSP) is prevalent among working adults. The increased use of electronic devices and prevalence of remote working and study following the COVID-19 pandemic have raised concerns about the potential rise in such conditions. This study aims to investigate the associations between work-related, lifestyle factors and NSNSP in the adult Southeast Asian Singaporean population. Materials and Methods: An online survey was administered electronically to Singaporeans aged 21 and above. Demographic data, NSNSP prevalence, computer and smartphone usage durations, sleep patterns, and exercise frequency were captured after obtaining informed consent (SIT institutional review board approval #2023014). Results: A total of 302 validated responses were recorded, including 212 suffering from NSNSP versus 90 in the comparison group. The NSNSP group showed significantly longer smartphone usage (5.37 ± 3.50 h/day) compared to the comparison group (4.46 ± 3.36 h/day, p = 0.04). Furthermore, the NSNSP group had lower exercise frequency (2.10 ± 1.74 days/week vs. 2.93 ± 2.21 days/week, p < 0.01) and shorter weekly exercise duration (2.69 ± 3.05 h/week vs. 4.11 ± 4.15 h/week, p < 0.01). The average NSNSP severity in this group was 34.9 ± 19.96 out of 100, correlating significantly with age (r = 0.201, p < 0.01) and BMI (r = 0.27, p < 0.01). Conclusions: This preliminary cross-sectional study examines characteristics of adult Southeast Asians with NSNSP post-COVID-19 pandemic. The findings indicate significantly longer smartphone use and less exercise in NSNSP respondents, with both age and body mass index (BMI) demonstrating significant correlations with NSNSP severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background In China, the 2022–2023 influenza season began earlier and was characterized by higher levels of influenza activity and co-circulation of various respiratory pathogens compared with seasons before the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Timely and precise estimates of influenza vaccine effectiveness (IVE) against infections can be used to guide public health measures. Methods A test-negative study was conducted to estimate IVE against laboratory-confirmed influenza using data from the CHinese Electronic health Records Research in Yinzhou (CHERRY) study that prospectively integrated laboratory, vaccination, and health administrative data in Yinzhou, southern China. We included patients who presented influenza-like illness and received nucleic acid tests and/or antigen tests between October 2023 and March 2024. Estimates of IVE were adjusted for age, gender, month of specimen submitted, chronic comorbidities, and hospitalization status. Results A total of 205 028 participants, including 96 298 influenza cases (7.6% vaccinated) and 108 730 influenza-negative controls (13.4% vaccinated), were eligible for this analysis. The estimates of IVE were 49.4% (95% CI, 47.8%–50.9%), 41.9% (95% CI, 39.8%–44.0%), and 59.9% (95% CI, 57.9%–61.9%) against overall influenza, influenza A, and influenza B, respectively. A lower IVE was observed for individuals aged 7–17 years (38.6%), vs 45.8% for 6 months–6 years, 46.7% for 18–64 years, and 46.1% for ≥65 years. Vaccination reduced the risk of infection by 44.4% among patients with chronic comorbidities. IVEs varied by epidemic weeks with the changes in influenza activity levels and the switch of dominant influenza strains. Conclusions Influenza vaccination in the 2023–2024 season was protective against infection for the entire population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the neuropathic component of chronic musculoskeletal pain in post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and examine the relationship between neuropathic pain and clinical and demographic characteristics. Patients and methods: This cross-sectional study included 163 adult patients (85 females, 78 males; mean age: 41.7±4.3 years; range, 22 to 50 years) with post-COVID-19 musculoskeletal pain between February 1, 2021, and April 30, 2021. Demographic and clinical characteristics, including age, sex, affected site, duration, and severity of post-COVID-19 musculoskeletal pain using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), as well as a neuropathic component of pain using the Leeds assessment of neuropathic symptoms and signs (LANSS), were collected. The most common post-COVID-19 symptoms, presence of hospitalization, and length of hospital stay during active COVID-19 infection were recorded from the patient records. Results: The mean duration and severity of pain were 7.85±1.53 months and 5.09±1.95, respectively. Half of the patients were hospitalized, and the mean length of hospital stay was 12.15±18.06 days. The most common pain sites were upper and lower back pain, followed by leg and arm pain. A total of 92 (56.4%) patients had previously received pharmacological or nonpharmacological treatment for post-COVID-19 musculoskeletal pain. Based on the LANSS (scores >12), 31 (19%) patients had neuropathic pain. There was a significant correlation between the presence of neuropathic pain and pulmonary involvement/symptoms. The presence and length of hospital stay were correlated with LANNS scores (p<0.05). The frequency, LANSS scores, and VAS-pain scores of the patients with and without neuropathic pain were similar between male and female patients (p>0.05). Conclusion: The neuropathic component of chronic musculoskeletal pain may be common, as one-fifth of our patients had neuropathic pain as assessed by the LANNS. Therefore, the awareness of post-COVID-19 chronic neuropathic musculoskeletal pain should be increased. We believe that focusing on the identification of pain phenotypes would provide adequate and tailored chronic neuropathic musculoskeletal pain management in the post-COVID-19 period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction/Objectives: Several studies have documented the development and persistence of symptoms related to COVID-19 and its secondary complications up to 12 months after the infection. We aimed to identify the medical complications following COVID-19 infection in the Indigenous Zapotec population of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec region in Oaxaca, Mexico. Methods: This is a cross-sectional analytical study that included 90 Indigenous Zapotec participants (30 males and 60 females) from the Tehuantepec region, Oaxaca, Mexico, who had an infectious process due to SARS-CoV-2. Sociodemographic and clinical data were identified through questionnaires. Results: Among the 201 participants, 90 individuals (66.7% women, 33.3% men) had contracted COVID-19. Out of these, 61 individuals reported persistent symptoms post-infection, with a mean symptom duration of 13.87 months. The results show significant variations in symptom duration based on age, marital status, educational attainment, vaccination status, and blood group. The most commonly reported symptoms included a dry cough, fever, myalgia, fatigue, headache, and depressive symptoms. Conclusions: This study highlights the post-COVID-19 symptoms and their prevalence within a specific sample of the Indigenous Zapotec population in Oaxaca, along with the sociodemographic and clinical factors influencing the duration of these symptoms. It underscores the necessity of personalized recovery strategies and highlights the critical role of vaccination in mitigating the long-term impacts of SARS-CoV-2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Though the COVID-19 pandemic recedes, and our society gradually returns to normal, Chinese people's work and lifestyles are still influenced by the "pandemic aftermath". In the post-pandemic era, employees may feel uncertainty at work due to the changed organizational operations and management and perceive the external environment to be more dynamic. Both these perceptions may increase employees' negative emotions and contribute to conflicts between work and life. Drawing from the ego depletion theory, this study aimed to examine the impact of job insecurity during the post-pandemic era on employees' work-life conflicts, and the mediating effect of workplace anxiety in this relationship. Besides, this study also considered the uncertainty of the external macro environment as a boundary condition on the direct and indirect relationship between job insecurity and work-life conflicts. Methods: A two-wave questionnaire survey was conducted from October to December 2023 to collect data. MBA students and graduates from business school with full-time jobs are invited to report their perception of job insecurity, work anxiety, perceived environment uncertainty, and work-life conflict. This resulted in 253 valid responses. Data analysis was performed using the SPSS, Amos, and PROCESS. Results: The results showed that: (1) Employees' job insecurity would directly intensify the work-life conflict (B = 0.275, p < 0.001, 95% CI [0.182, 0.367]). (2) Employees' workplace anxiety mediates the relationship between job insecurity and work-life conflict (B = 0.083, p < 0.001, 95% CI [0.047, 0.130]). (3) The mediating effect of workplace anxiety between job insecurity and work-life conflict exists when perceived environmental uncertainty is high (B = 0.049, 95% CI [0.011, 0.114]), while vanishes when perceived environmental uncertainty is low (B = 0.024, 95% CI [−0.005, 0.068]). Conclusion: Job insecurity combined with perceived environmental uncertainty in the post-pandemic era fuels employees' workplace anxiety and work-life conflicts. Post-pandemic trauma lingers, necessitating urgent attention and response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The study aims to examine consumers' intentions to visit wine tourism destinations (WTDs) in Canada post-COVID-19 by combining destination-related constructs with the theory of planned behavior (TPB). Design/methodology/approach: Convenience sampling was employed in the online survey method to gather data. Using AMOS and SPSS software, structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to analyze the data. Findings: The outcomes of the SEM show that a powerful model for predicting consumers' intention to visit WTDs was developed by combining the TPB with additional variables. More precisely, the study identified that consumers' attitudes, perceived behavioral control, wine product involvement and motivation exhibit positive influences on their intention to visit WTDs. Conversely, subjective norms and the destination wine image did not influence the intention. Research limitations/implications: The findings have important ramifications for various parties involved, including the government, travel agencies, tourism associations and wine producers. This research's emphasis on consumer behavior enables practitioners to adjust to the changing needs of consumers in the post-pandemic environment. Originality/value: The drawn-out model gives an improvised view of consumers' behavioral intentions to visit WTDs post-COVID-19 by testing an integrated structural model comprising TPB and destination-related constructs. As far as the authors are aware, this research represents the first-ever effort to predict consumer's intentions to visit WTDs post-COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Social media has broadened the scope of luxury brand marketing and has emerged as a salient tool for Internet marketing campaigns in the post-pandemic world. Under the theoretical lens of the SOR model, this study aims to explore the nexus between brand social media marketing (BSMM) activities and online consumer brand engagement (CBE) via mediating consumers' emotions in the modest luxury fashion branding post-pandemic context. Design/methodology/approach: This study conducted a post-pandemic survey in five major metropolitan cities in Pakistan with a total of 584 eligible young consumers who follow the fan pages of fashion brands. Structural equation modeling was used to test hypotheses. Findings: The findings reveal that BSMM activities have a significant influence on three emotion states (pleasure, arousal and dominance); however, only pleasure and arousal significantly drive CBE (i.e. affective engagement and activation). Moreover, the results show that pleasure and arousal partially mediate the relationships between BSMM activities and affective and activation dimensions of CBE, while dominance fully mediates the relationship between BSMM activities and cognitive engagement. Interestingly, only affective engagement was shown to be the most potent component of CBE in fostering positive emotions toward luxury fashion brands. Originality/value: This study contributes to the literature on social media marketing and consumer brand engagement by revealing valuable insights into post-pandemic luxury fashion branding that could assist academicians and marketing practitioners of non-Western markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The purpose of this study was to examine mental health problems and sleep quality among undergraduate students in the post-COVID-19 era, as well as related factors. This cross-sectional study involved 627 undergraduate students from Chiang Mai University in northern Thailand between October and December 2022. Data were collected using a self-administered online questionnaire that included the General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12), the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale (CES-D), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). The study found that 57.9% of participants experienced mental health problems (95% CI: 54.0–61.8), 32.2% experienced depression (95% CI: 28.5–35.9), and 68.1% reported poor sleep quality (95% CI: 64.4–71.8). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that medical conditions, relationships with family members, relationships with friends or other people, having problems while studying at university, and self-perceived COVID-19 impact score were all associated with mental health problems and poor sleep quality (p

Background For COVID-19 pandemic and associated factors, around 25 million children missed routine immunization in 2021. NFHS-5 for Assam reported 67% coverage with routine immunization in 2019–21 which is below national average (77%) and lowest among Indian States/UTs. Lack of knowledge and skill among provider can reduce coverage. To address vaccine hesitancy and demand generation for routine immunization, BRIDGE IPC Skills (Boosting Routine Immunization Demand Generation) training in routine immunization for frontline workers considered an effective tool. Objectives To estimate the service delivery in postpandemic period for routine childhood immunization in Assam following capacity building with a BRIDGE IPC Skill tool. Materials and Methods This cross-sectional comparative study was conducted among immunization service providers from April 2022 to March 2023, where training coverage of service providers on BRIDGE IPC Skill was assessed. Comparison was made between functionalities of trained services by service providers with untrained ones. Results A total of 2312 session sites were visited, of which 67.7% of frontline workers were trained, while 32.3% were not trained. Alternate vaccine delivery was present in 58.5%. Updated due list was present in 64.1% vs 29.8% in trained and untrained sites. Significant association was found between delivery of key message and status of frontline worker on BRIDGE IPC Skill training. Conclusion Capacity building of frontline workers on BRIDGE IPC Skill can boost efficiency of frontline workers and may facilitate in addressing gaps that EXIST between health care system and community.

Acute COVID-19 is a viral infection caused by a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that results in dramatically decreased peripheral blood CD3+T cell count apparently due to alterations of thymic T cell maturation, that can persist long term afterwards. Therefore, we analyzed the levels of peripheral blood TRECs (T-cell receptor excision circles), and investigated the main alterations in peripheral blood T cell subsets in COVID-19 convalescents. We performed molecular quantification of TRECs with “TREC/KREC-AMP PS” kit and flow cytometric analysis of peripheral blood lymphocytes from three groups of patients. The first group contained 109 samples from COVID-19 convalescents (6–12 month post-acute COVID-19) with normal levels of TRECs (TRECn); the second was formed from COVID-19 convalescents (6–12 month post-acute COVID-19) with decreased levels of TRECs (TREClow, n = 29), and healthy control group (HC, n = 18). We noticed no significant differences between all three groups in CD3+T cell relative and absolute numbers. However, CD4+T cell frequencies were decreased in TREClow and TRECn groups compared to HC (40.8% (31.6; 50.1) and 46.4% (40.0; 53.0) vs 53.5% (47.36; 56.9), p 0.001 and р = 0.004, respectively). Furthermore, Th cell levels were decreased in TREClow patients vs HC and TRECn groups (701 cell/1 µL (478; 807) vs 1005 cell/1 µL (700; 1419), р = 0.020, and 876 cell/ 1 µL (661; 1046), р = 0.008, respectively). Finally, both groups of COVID-19 convalescents had increased frequencies of circulating CD8+T cells — 29.4% (20.7; 39.7) in TREClow group, 26.5% (21.1; 32.7) in TRECn group vs 21.3% (17.1; 26.0) in healthy controls (p = 0.024 and р = 0.026, respectively). In TRECn group, CD8+T cell count was elevated vs control range (508 cell/1 µL (372; 622) vs 356 cell/1 µL (247; 531), р = 0.044). Thus, COVID-19 convalescents (6–12 month post-acute COVID-19) showed an imbalance in CD4+and CD8+T cell level even at 6–12 months post-acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, and the observed changes in peripheral blood T cells could be closely related to the alterations in thymic T cell maturation and differentiation. Such a long-term decline in TREC levels in the circulation may have a profound impact on immune system functions and requires immunocorrection therapy.

Public transportation usage in Delhi has declined, with the Delhi Metro having a significant share. However, due to fare hikes and COVID-19 restrictions, the DM's share has been decreasing further. To improve ridership, a study is being conducted to evaluate the DM's performance and identify areas for improvement in passenger convenience and comfort. The Magenta line is investigated through an on-board survey to collect primary data. The survey covers commuter perceptions of safety & security, financial & economic factors, infrastructure & comfort and functional & operational features. The Relative Importance Index approach is used to analyse the data and evaluate DM performance. An ANN model is also presented to determine the factors influencing the choice to travel on the DM, with the “metro fare per trip” factor being a key consideration. Based on the analysis results, recommendations are made to improve the DM's performance. The study found that safety and security had the highest RII, followed by efficiency and viability, functional and operational features, infrastructure and comfort, and financial and economic factors. The subway fare had the lowest RII. The ANN model is adapted to understand the reasons behind low metro ridership.

Abstract COVID-19's long-lasting and complex impacts have become a global concern, with diverse clinical outcomes. This study evaluated 226 participants to understand the clinical spectrum of COVID-19/Long COVID (LC), exploring how disease severity correlates with sociodemographic factors and biomarkers. Determinants related to COVID-19 severity included age (P

Abstract Background To date there is no causal treatment for post-COVID syndrome, leaving symptomatic treatments as the primary recourse. However, the practical implementation and effectiveness of these interventions remain underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the utilization frequency of symptomatic therapies and patient-reported effectiveness across various treatment modalities at a German post-COVID center. Methods As the baseline investigation we conducted a single-cohort retrospective study to analyze the frequency of symptomatic therapies among post-COVID patients who attended the post-COVID center of the University Hospital of Erlangen, between December 2022 to July 2023. Additionally, we administered a follow-up at least 3 months after the initial presentation, using a questionnaire to assess patient-reported improvements in post-COVID symptoms associated with the symptomatic therapies received. Results Our study included 200 patients (mean age: 44.6 ± 12.6 years; 69.0% women; mean duration since acute infection: 15.3 ± 8.3 months). Pharmacotherapy was the predominant symptomatic treatment (79.5%), with psychotropic drugs (32.5%) and analgesics (31.5%) being the most frequently prescribed. Over half of the patients (55.5%) utilized vitamins and nutritional supplements. Hospital admission rates to acute care occurred in 35.5% of cases; 33.0% underwent inpatient rehabilitation and 31.0% pursued outpatient psychotherapy. Cardiologists (76.5%), pulmonologists (67.5%), and neurologists (65.5%) were the most consulted specialists. Therapies involving medical devices were infrequently employed (12.0%). In a follow-up questionnaire (response rate: 82.5%, 6.3 ± 2.2 months post-baseline), beta-blockers were the most effective pharmacological intervention with 31.5% of patients reporting strong to very strong symptom improvement, followed by antibiotics (29.6%). Furthermore, 33.0% of the patients perceived plasmapheresis to strongly alleviate symptoms. Only a small proportion of the sample attributed a strong or very strong symptom improvement to outpatient psychotherapy (11.0%). Conclusion This study provides initial insights into symptomatic therapy utilization and patient-reported symptom improvement in post-COVID syndrome. Further research into symptoms clusters and interdisciplinary collaboration are warranted to comprehensively address the multifaceted physical and psychological symptomatology. Trial registration The study was registered at the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS-ID: DRKS00033621) on March 20, 2024.

Purpose – This paper explores the potential that block teaching offers to enhance employability in the context of large-scale classes. It suggests that block teaching, with its condensed structure, necessitates curriculum innovation, fosters participatory learning and peer-to-peer networking, and has been shown to increase student focus and enhance engagement and attainment, especially amongst diverse learners. As these are the same challenges that large-scale teaching faces, it is proposed that intensive modes of delivery could be scaled up in a way that may help to mitigate such problems as cohorts in business schools continue to increase in size. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on secondary research and provides an overview of literature that looks at block teaching, followed by that which explores the challenges of large-scale teaching contexts. It compares and contrasts the gaps in both to suggest a way that they could be combined. Findings – The paper provides key insights into changes in the contemporary landscape of teaching within UK business schools, which have seen increasingly large cohorts and draws out the key strengths of intensive modes of delivery, which include helping students to time manage effectively, encouraging curriculum innovation and the creation of participatory learning opportunities as well as providing closer personal relationships between students and staff. Outlining some of the well-documented issues that can arise when teaching larger cohorts, the paper suggests that scaling up blocked delivery may offer a new way help to overcome them. Research limitations/implications – Because of the chosen research approach, the research results are subject to generalisation. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to test the proposed propositions in large-scale teaching scenarios. Practical implications – This paper includes implications for the development of innovative modes of teaching in the context of large cohorts, an experience that is increasingly common amongst British business schools and beyond. Originality/value – This paper brings together two bodies of literature for the first time – that of intensive modes of teaching and that focuses on large-scale teaching contexts – for the first time to show how the former may help to overcome some of the key issues arising in the latter.

Background: Respiratory symptoms may persist for several weeks following the initial coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. The aims and objectives were to assess the clinical symptoms, pulmonary functions, and radiological changes and to assess the cardio-vascular complications in post-COVID-19 patients. Methods: This observational study was conducted in the Department of Pulmonary Medicine in collaboration with the Department of Cardiology, SCBMCH, Cuttack, from March 2021 to August 2022 on 75 post-COVID-19 patients with respiratory symptoms from 4 weeks to 2 years after treatment for COVID-19 infection. Post-COVID patients having previous respiratory diseases were excluded from the study. Results: Among 75 patients, the most common age group was 18–30 years with a male-to-female ratio of 2.5:1. Based on O2 requirement, patients were divided into the mild symptomatic group and moderate to severe pneumonia group. The most common respiratory symptom was dyspnea, followed by cough with expectoration. Bilateral crepitations were found in 17% of cases. C-reactive protein (CRP) and D-dimer were increased in 38.6% and 32% of patients, respectively. 42.6% had abnormal chest X-ray, and the most common abnormal finding was reticular thickening. In spirometry, the restrictive pattern and mixed pattern were the predominant types documented in 49.3% and 13.3% of cases, respectively, which were significant in the moderate–severe group. Diffusion capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO) was performed in only 19 patients (mild group 13 and moderate–severe group 6). Twelve (63.2%) patients had abnormal DLCO. P- values were significant for RV (0.0482) and RV/TLC (0.0394). High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of the thorax was abnormal in 55.7% with the most common abnormalities as inter- and intra-lobular septal thickening. The left ventricular ejection fraction was preserved in all patients, with right atrium and right ventricle enlargement in 2.6% and pulmonary hypertension in 4.0% of participants. Conclusion: All post-COVID-19 patients having respiratory symptoms after recovery from acute COVID-19 may be referred by family care physicians to a dedicated post-COVID center for further evaluation, management, and early rehabilitation to decrease the morbidity in recovered patients. Persistent increased blood parameters like TLC, N/L ratio, RBS, CRP, and D-dimer seen in recovered post-COVID-19 patients. The long-term impact of CT findings on respiratory symptoms, pulmonary functions, and quality of life is unknown. Cardiovascular abnormalities in post-COVID-19 patients are infrequent.

Abstract Background In addition to several sequelae of post-COVID-19, individuals also experience significant limitations in work ability, resulting in negative consequences for the return-to-work (RTW) process. This systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to assess the impact of post-COVID-19 on work ability and RTW of individuals previously infected with SARS-CoV-2. Methods Studies on the work ability and RTW of patients with post-COVID-19 (more than 12 weeks after an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection) were regarded eligible for inclusion. Systematic search of literature was performed up to March 2023 using five databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, CENTRAL and WHO COVID 19). Study selection followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) Statement. A meta-analysis estimated the overall success rate of RTW. The risk of bias of the included studies was evaluated with the Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS). Results 19 relevant studies, published between 2021 and 2023, were included in the systematic review, involving 21.155 patients from 14 different countries. The findings indicate that a significant proportion of individuals with post-COVID-19 experience persistent symptoms and functional impairments, with fatigue being the most prominent symptom. These persistent symptoms can have a considerable (negative) impact on individuals’ physical and psychological capacity to participate in work-related activities, leading to lower work ability and increased absenteeism. The RTW for post-COVID-19 patients is complex, with approximately 60.9% of patients successfully returning to work after 12 or more weeks following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Among those who successfully returning to work, a considerable number need modifications in their work duties or hours to cope with residual impairments. Factors such as workplace accommodations, supportive policies, and occupational rehabilitation programs play a crucial role in facilitating successful RTW. Conclusions The systematic review underscores the substantial impact of post-COVID-19 on work-related outcomes. The implications of this research highlight the need for healthcare providers, employers, and policymakers to collaborate in creating inclusive work environments and implementing tailored rehabilitation programs to support individuals recovering from post-COVID-19. Further research should focus on long-term follow-up studies with mixed methods to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the long-term consequences of post-COVID-19 on work ability and RTW outcomes. PROSPERO registration number CRD42023385436.

Abstract This study, leveraging search engine data, investigates the dynamics of China's domestic tourism markets in response to the August 2022 epidemic outbreak in Xinjiang. It focuses on understanding the reaction mechanisms of tourist-origin markets during destination crises in the post-pandemic phase. Notably, the research identifies a continuous rise in the potential tourism demand from tourist origin cities, despite the challenges posed by the epidemic. Further analysis uncovers a regional disparity in the growth of tourism demand, primarily influenced by the economic stratification of origin markets. Additionally, the study examines key tourism attractions such as Duku Road, highlighting its resilient competitive system, which consists of distinctive tourism experiences, economically robust tourist origins, diverse tourist markets, and spatial pattern stability driven by economic factors in source cities, illustrating an adaptive response to external challenges such as crises. The findings provide new insights into the dynamics of tourism demand, offering a foundation for developing strategies to bolster destination resilience and competitiveness in times of health crises.

The emergence of digital technology in information fields amidst the conditions of the global post-pandemic crisis has promised a variety of solutions because of its inherent multi-facilities on the one hand. However, because of those as well significant threats have emerged on the other hand, such as hoaxes and fraud. The question of how to make this technology a solution must be lived based on digital literacy. Social adaptation in post-COVID-19 requires strengthening digital literacy to produce the expected social conditions. This research employed a qualitative method based on the interview with 25 LIS students chosen due to their connectivities with current digital literacy issues and the pandemic at five universities in Indonesia. Those students’ voices have been considered enough to represent studied phenomena after investigation. The interview data were analyzed using Miles and Huberman’s three steps of data display, reduction, and verification. The research found that the way of Gen Z society actualizes itself in adjusting to the post-pandemic environment is vital in several aspects that consist of identity, critical reasoning, social participation, and societal empowerment. Besides, digital literacy in the context of social adaptation functions as a means of society, strengthening the position of rights, responsibilities, citizenship, and community safety. The research has successfully discovered the phenomena of those aspects based on in-depth qualitative analysis. Unfortunately, it is limited to the descriptive analysis framed in a narrative condition. Therefore, further research needs to consider the quantitative trends to discover the generation’s adaptability level in encountering the COVID-19 pandemic.

AbstractObjective: The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), has had a profound global impact on individual health and well-being in adults and children. While most fully recover from COVID-19, a relatively large subgroup continues to experience persistent physical, cognitive, and emotional/behavioral symptoms beyond the initial infection period. The World Health Organization has termed this phenomenon “Post-COVID-19 Condition” (PCC), better known as “Long COVID.” Due to the cognitive and psychosocial symptoms, neuropsychologists often assess and recommend treatment for individuals with Long COVID. However, guidance for neuropsychologists’ involvement in clinical care, policy-making, and research has not yet been developed. The authors of this manuscript convened to address this critical gap and develop guidance for clinical neuropsychologists working with patients presenting with Long COVID. Method: Authors include pediatric and adult neuropsychologists with expertise in Long COVID and behavioral health. All authors have been engaged in clinical and research efforts examining the impact of COVID-19. Authors summarized the literature-to-date pertinent to the neuropsychiatric sequelae of Long COVID and developed guidance for neuropsychologists working with individuals with Long COVID. Conclusions: Research findings regarding neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with Long COVID are mixed and limited by methodological differences. As they practice and conduct research, neuropsychologists should remain mindful of the evolving and tenuous nature of the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the role of inflammation and oxidative stress, hallmarks of COVID-19, in accelerating cellular biological aging. We investigated early molecular markers—DNA methylation age (DNAmAge) and telomere length (TL)—in blood leukocytes, nasal cells (NCs), and induced sputum (IS) one year post-infection in pauci- and asymptomatic healthcare workers (HCWs) infected during the first pandemic wave (February–May 2020), compared to COPD patients, model for "aged lung". Data from questionnaires, Work Ability Index (WAI), blood analyses, autonomic cardiac balance assessments, heart rate variability (HRV), and pulmonary function tests were collected. Elevated leukocyte DNAmAge significantly correlated with advancing age, male sex, daytime work, and an aged phenotype characterized by chronic diseases, elevated LDL and glycemia levels, medications affecting HRV, and declines in lung function, WAI, lymphocyte count, hemoglobin levels, and HRV (p < 0.05). Increasing age, LDL levels, job positions involving intensive patient contact, and higher leukocyte counts collectively contributed to shortened leukocyte TL (p < 0.05). Notably, HCWs exhibited accelerated biological aging in IS cells compared to both blood leukocytes (p ≤ 0.05) and NCs (p < 0.001) and were biologically older than COPD patients (p < 0.05). These findings suggest the need to monitor aging in pauci- and asymptomatic COVID-19 survivors, who represent the majority of the general population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zimbabwe has received substantial external assistance for health since the early 2000s, including funding earmarked for, or framed as, health systems strengthening (HSS). This study sought to examine whether external assistance has strengthened the health system (i.e. enabled comprehensive changes to health system performance drivers) or has just supported the health system (by increasing inputs and improving service coverage in the short term). Between August and October 2022, we conducted in-depth key informant interviews with 18 individuals and reviewed documents to understand: (1) whether external funding has supported or strengthened Zimbabwe's health system since the 2000s; (2) whether the experience of COVID-19 fosters a re-examination of what had been considered as HSS during the pre-pandemic era; and (3) areas to be reconsidered for HSS post COVID-19. Our findings suggest that external funders have supported Zimbabwe to control major epidemics and avert health system collapse. However, the COVID-19 pandemic showed that supporting the health system is not the same as strengthening it, as it became apparent at that time that the health sector is plagued with several system-wide bottlenecks. External funding is fragile and highly unsustainable, which reinforces the oft-ignored reality that HSS is a sovereign mandate of country-level authorities, and one that falls outside the core interests of external funders. The key positive lesson from the pandemic is that Zimbabwe is capable of raising domestic resources to fund HSS. However, there is no guarantee that such funding will be maintained. There is a need, then, to reconsider government's stewardship for HSS. External funders need to re-examine whether their funding really strengthens the national health system or just supports the country to provide basic services in their areas of interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the government's role. The study aims to contribute to the discourse on government intervention and the provision of public goods in a supranational context characterised by diverse socio-economic landscapes and shared policy objectives. Design/methodology/approach: It investigates three dimensions: the temporal evolution of government interventions, the spatial dimensions of the pandemic's impact, and the structural implications for public policy and sustainability. This analysis is based on a comprehensive review of literature, policy documents, and case studies from EU member states. Findings: Findings highlight the significance of long-term strategic planning, international cooperation, and equitable economic systems in managing crises and fostering a sustainable environment. Originality/value: It comprehensively analyses how integrated policy frameworks can enhance crisis resilience, offering practical recommendations for policymakers and contributing to the broader discourse on sustainable development and public governance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The most frequent body composition alterations in post-COVID-19 syndrome include low muscle mass, dynapenia, sarcopenia, and obesity. These conditions share interconnected pathophysiological mechanisms that exacerbate each other. The relationship between body composition phenotypes and metabolic abnormalities in post-COVID-19 syndrome remains unclear. Objective: To evaluate the association between body composition phenotypes and insulin resistance (IR) and metabolic abnormalities in non-diabetic individuals with post-COVID-19 syndrome. Methods: A cross-sectional, single-center study involving 483 subjects with post-COVID-19 syndrome following moderate to severe acute COVID-19 requiring hospitalization. Individuals with diabetes, those who declined to participate, or those who could not be contacted were excluded. Body composition phenotypes were classified as normal weight, dynapenia, sarcopenia, dynapenic obesity, and sarcopenic obesity (SO). Results: The average age was 52.69 ± 14.75 years; of note, 67.08% were male. The prevalence of body composition phenotypes was as follows: 13.25% were of normal weight, 9.52% had dynapenia, 9.94% had sarcopenia, 43.69% had obesity, 18.84% had dynapenic obesity, and 4.76% had SO. Additionally, 58.18% had IR. Obesity (OR: 2.98, CI95%; 1.64–5.41) and dynapenic obesity (OR: 4.98, CI95%; 1.46–6.88) were associated with IR. Conclusion: The most common body composition phenotypes were obesity, dynapenic obesity, and dynapenia. Furthermore, obesity and dynapenic obesity were associated with IR in post-COVID-19 syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: SARS-CoV-2 infection causes severe endothelial damage, an essential step for cardiovascular complications. Endothelial-colony forming cells (ECFCs) act as a biomarker of vascular damage but their role in SARS-CoV-2 remain unclear. The aim of this study was to assess whether the number of ECFCs and angiogenic biomarkers remained altered after 6 and 12-months post-infection and whether this imbalance correlated with the presence of long-COVID syndrome and other biological parameters measured. Methods: Seventy-two patients were recruited at different time-points after overcoming COVID-19 and thirty-one healthy controls. All subjects were matched for age, gender, BMI, and comorbidities. ECFCs were obtained from peripheral blood and cultured with specific conditions. Results: The results confirm the presence of a long-term sequela in post-COVID-19 patients, with an abnormal increase in ECFC production compared to controls (82.8% vs. 48.4%, P < 0.01) that is maintained up to 6-months (87.0% vs. 48.4%, P < 0.01) and 12-months post-infection (85.0% vs. 48.4%, P < 0.01). Interestingly, post-COVID-19 patients showed a significant downregulation of angiogenesis-related proteins compared to controls indicating a clear endothelial injury. Troponin, NT-proBNP and ferritin levels, markers of cardiovascular risk and inflammation, remained elevated up to 12-months post-infection. Patients with lower numbers of ECFC exhibited higher levels of inflammatory markers, such as ferritin, suggesting that ECFCs may play a protective role. Additionally, long-COVID syndrome was associated with higher ferritin levels and with female gender. Conclusions: These findings highlight the presence of vascular sequela that last up to 6- and 12-months post-infection and point out the need for preventive measures and patient follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of theories explaining the development of long-lasting symptoms after an acute severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection include changes in the methylation pattern of the host. The current study aimed to investigate whether DNA methylation levels associated with the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) promoter are different when comparing individuals previously hospitalized due to COVID-19 who then developed long-lasting post-COVID pain with those previously hospitalized due to COVID-19 who did not develop post-COVID-19 pain symptoms. Non-stimulated saliva samples were obtained from a cohort of 279 (mean age: 56.5, SD: 13.0 years old, 51.5% male) COVID-19 survivors who needed hospitalization. Clinical data were collected from hospital medical records. Participants were asked to disclose pain symptoms developed during the first three months after hospital admission due to COVID-19 and persisting at the time of the interview. Methylations of five CpG dinucleotides in the ACE2 promoter were quantified (as percentages). Participants were evaluated up to 17.8 (SD: 5.3) months after hospitalization. Thus, 39.1% of patients exhibited post-COVID-19 pain. Most patients (77.05%) in the cohort developed localized post-COVID-19 pain. Headache and pain in the lower extremity were experienced by 29.4% of the patients. Seven patients received a post-infection diagnosis of fibromyalgia based on the presence of widespread pain characteristics (11.6%) and other associated symptoms. No significant differences in methylation percentages at any CpG location of the ACE2 promoter were identified when comparing individuals with and without post-COVID-19 pain. The current study did not observe differences in methylation levels of the ACE2 promoter depending on the presence or absence of long-lasting post-COVID-19 pain symptoms in individuals who needed hospitalization due to COVID-19 during the first wave of the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Bangladesh, improving the productivity of ready-made garment (RMG) factory workers has always been an uphill task, and this has assumed greater proportions after the COVID-19 pandemic. The present study explores the effect of welfare facilities and human resource management practices on the motivation and productivity of RMG workers during the pandemic. On the basis of an advanced statistical analysis, the study accepted all hypotheses proposed to highlight the significant impact of human resource management practices and welfare facilities on the motivation and productivity of workers. Both of these factors showed an association with employee productivity through employee motivation, which proved to be a partial mediator. Moreover, the authenticity of the study was supported by the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and the structural equation model (SEM), which were represented based on model fit exponents, composite reliability, convergent validity and discriminant validity. The study helps develop an understanding of theoretical and managerial implications, which can assist RMG factory owners, managers, stakeholders and policymakers to motivate workers and improve their productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) represent a vulnerable population against an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. It has been observed that up to 80% of patients with ILD can develop post-COVID-19 symptomatology one year after. This secondary analysis aimed to, 1, compare serological biomarkers before and after surpassing a SARS-CoV-2 infection in individuals with interstitial lung disease (ILD) and, 2, to compare serological biomarkers between ILD patients who develop and those who do not develop post-COVID-19 symptoms. Seventy-six patients with ILD (40.4% women, age: 69, SD: 10.5 years) who survived a SARS-CoV-2 infection participated. High-resolution computerized tomography (CT) of the lungs, two pulmonary function tests (forced vital capacity (FVC) and diffusion value of carbon monoxide (DLCO)) and fourteen serological biomarkers were collected before and after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Participants were asked for the presence of post-COVID-19 symptomatology a mean of twelve (SD: eight) months after infection. Sixty patients (79%) showed post-COVID-19 symptoms (mean: 3.5, SD 1.1), with fatigue (68.4%), dyspnea (31.5%), and concentration loss (27.6%) being the most prevalent. Creatine phosphokinase (CPK) was the only biomarker showing differences in our study. In fact, CPK levels were higher after the acute SARS-CoV-2 infection (mean difference: 41.0, 95%CI 10.1 to 71.8, p = 0.03) when compared to before the infection. Thus, CPK levels were also higher in ILD patients with post-COVID-19 fatigue (mean difference: 69.7, 95%CI 12.7 to 126.7, p = 0.015) or with post-COVID-19 dyspnea (mean difference: 34.8, 95%CI 5.2 to 64.4, p = 0.025) than those patients without these post-COVID-19 symptoms. No significant changes in CT or functional pulmonary tests were observed after COVID-19 in patients with ILD. In conclusion, patients with ILD exhibited an increase in CPK levels after SARS-CoV-2 infection, albeit no changes in other serological biomarkers were identified. Similarly, the presence of post-COVID-19 fatigue or dyspnea was also associated with higher CPK levels in ILD patients. Studies investigating long COVID mechanisms in vulnerable populations such as ILD are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The long-lasting persistence of autoantibodies stands as one of the hypotheses explaining the multisystemic manifestations seen in individuals with post-COVID-19 condition. The current review offers restricted insights into the persistence of autoantibodies in plasma/serum in people with post-COVID symptoms. Methods: PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases, as well as on medRxiv and bioRxiv preprint servers were searched up to January 5th, 2024. Papers investigating the presence of autoantibodies in plasma/serum samples in people with post-COVID symptoms were included. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to assess methodological quality. Results: From 162 identified records, five articles met all inclusion criteria; four studies included infected controls with no post-COVID symptoms whereas all five studies included non-infected controls (410 COVID-19 survivors with post-COVID symptoms, 223 COVID-19 survivors with no post-COVID symptoms as controls and 266 non-infected healthy controls). Four studies concluded that the presence of autoantibodies had a potential (but small) role in post-COVID-19 condition whereas one study concluded that autoantibodies were not associated. Quality assessment showed all studies had high methodological quality. Conclusion: Although evidence suggests that persistent autoantibodies can be associated with post-COVID symptoms, the clinical relevance of their presence seems modest at this stage. Current results highlight further research to clarify the role of autoantibodies in the development of post-COVID symptoms, guiding the development of tailored diagnostic and treatment approaches to enhance patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In addition to several sequelae of post-COVID-19, individuals also experience significant limitations in work ability, resulting in negative consequences for the return-to-work (RTW) process. This systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to assess the impact of post-COVID-19 on work ability and RTW of individuals previously infected with SARS-CoV-2. Methods: Studies on the work ability and RTW of patients with post-COVID-19 (more than 12 weeks after an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection) were regarded eligible for inclusion. Systematic search of literature was performed up to March 2023 using five databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, CENTRAL and WHO COVID 19). Study selection followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) Statement. A meta-analysis estimated the overall success rate of RTW. The risk of bias of the included studies was evaluated with the Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS). Results: 19 relevant studies, published between 2021 and 2023, were included in the systematic review, involving 21.155 patients from 14 different countries. The findings indicate that a significant proportion of individuals with post-COVID-19 experience persistent symptoms and functional impairments, with fatigue being the most prominent symptom. These persistent symptoms can have a considerable (negative) impact on individuals' physical and psychological capacity to participate in work-related activities, leading to lower work ability and increased absenteeism. The RTW for post-COVID-19 patients is complex, with approximately 60.9% of patients successfully returning to work after 12 or more weeks following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Among those who successfully returning to work, a considerable number need modifications in their work duties or hours to cope with residual impairments. Factors such as workplace accommodations, supportive policies, and occupational rehabilitation programs play a crucial role in facilitating successful RTW. Conclusions: The systematic review underscores the substantial impact of post-COVID-19 on work-related outcomes. The implications of this research highlight the need for healthcare providers, employers, and policymakers to collaborate in creating inclusive work environments and implementing tailored rehabilitation programs to support individuals recovering from post-COVID-19. Further research should focus on long-term follow-up studies with mixed methods to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the long-term consequences of post-COVID-19 on work ability and RTW outcomes. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023385436. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study, leveraging search engine data, investigates the dynamics of China's domestic tourism markets in response to the August 2022 epidemic outbreak in Xinjiang. It focuses on understanding the reaction mechanisms of tourist-origin markets during destination crises in the post-pandemic phase. Notably, the research identifies a continuous rise in the potential tourism demand from tourist origin cities, despite the challenges posed by the epidemic. Further analysis uncovers a regional disparity in the growth of tourism demand, primarily influenced by the economic stratification of origin markets. Additionally, the study examines key tourism attractions such as Duku Road, highlighting its resilient competitive system, which consists of distinctive tourism experiences, economically robust tourist origins, diverse tourist markets, and spatial pattern stability driven by economic factors in source cities, illustrating an adaptive response to external challenges such as crises. The findings provide new insights into the dynamics of tourism demand, offering a foundation for developing strategies to bolster destination resilience and competitiveness in times of health crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]