recreational team games on untrained males in post COVID-19 scenario

Objective of the study was to examine the effect of small-side mixed recreational games on physical characteristics of university youth. Methods: Twenty-six male chosen and divided randomly into experimental (n=16) and control group (n=9). Experimental group was offered mixed recreational games thrice a week for 12 weeks. Mixed games included small sided football, basketball and handball. Training was given for 30 minutes. Independent Ttest was used to check group differences at start and post intervention. Product Moment Correlation was used to check correlation between aerobic capacity and body fat. Results: Body fat percent (t23= -2.123, P= 0.045), aerobic capacity (t23= 2.220, P= 0.037), oxygen saturation (t23 = 2.182, P = 0.040) and resting heart rate (t23= 2.123, P= 0.045). Significant relationship between body fat and aerobic capacity was seen in the intervention group (r= -0.675, n=16, p= 0.004). Conclusions: It can be concluded that mixed recreational games are effective and should be promoted among youth for better health. Unstructured and supervised recreational games are effective in promoting physical health and are enjoyed by young participants.

Child well-being before and after the 2020 COVID-19 lockdowns in three Australian states

This paper reports on changes in the social-emotional well-being of 6- to 12-year-old children tested before the COVID-19 pandemic and during 2020 and 2021. Well-being was assessed using a video game that empowers children to report their own well-being, including school attachment, social and emotional well-being, behavioural conformity and family support. We compared well-being over time for two groups of children in government schools in Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania. The treatment group of 580 children were tested in 2019 (Time 1) and a second time in mid-late 2020 and early 2021 (Time 2). The comparison group of 841 children were tested twice before the pandemic. Results showed that children in the treatment group reported significantly lower family support at Time 2 than those in the comparison group. This reduction in perceived family support was stronger for girls. In addition, children in the treatment group who reported lower levels of family support at Time 1 reported a steeper decline in family support by Time 2. Finally, boys in the treatment group reported significantly better behavioural conformity and emotional well-being relative to girls over time. Results highlight the varied impacts of the pandemic lockdowns and the need to provide continued support to vulnerable families. © 2023 The Authors. Australian Journal of Social Issues published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Australian Social Policy Association.

Changes in Body Mass Index in Children and Adolescents with Asthma during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Background: Increased weight gain in children during the COVID-19 pandemic has been reported. Changes in weight in children with asthma during this period have not been well described. Methods: Retrospective review of children with asthma, 6-18 years of age, seen in 2019 and 2020. Mean monthly rates of change in body mass index (BMI) were compared between years. Demographic and asthma-related factors were examined. Results: Two hundred sixty-seven patients were enrolled. BMI increased by 0.128 ± 0.283 kg/m2/month during the pandemic year as compared with 0.084 ± 0.160 kg/m2/month during the previous year (P = 0.03). Patients with baseline overweight or obesity trended toward higher rates of BMI increase than those starting with normal weight, with the greatest BMI increase occurring in the severely obese. Conclusions: In this single-site study of children with asthma, there was a greater monthly rate of BMI gain during the early pandemic as compared with that observed in the previous year.

Political parties and initial COVID-19 policies: subnational trends in India

In this analysis, we examine the relationship between the effective number of parliamentary parties (ENPP) at the state level in India and the initial policy responses among Indian state governments to the COVID-19 pandemic between January and April 2020. We find that by April 2020, Indian states with a relatively lower ENPP adopted more stringent measures to address the spread of the pandemic while states with a higher ENPP adopted less stringent measures. We hypothesize that it may have been more difficult for states with a larger number of parties to quickly adopt mitigation measures early in the pandemic, while it may have been relatively easier for states with a smaller number of parties. We discuss avenues for future research given the findings and the data presented in the paper. © 2023 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.

Waning of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies after vaccination: first results from the CoMoLo follow-up 2021 : Cânâ Kußmaul

Background In 2020, the study “Corona-Monitoring Lokal” (CoMoLo) assessed seroprevalences of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies in four study locations that were particularly affected by outbreaks in the early stages of the pandemic in Germany. One of the objectives of the 2021 follow-up was to examine the development of immunological parameters over time, including the extent of IgG antibody waning after vaccination. Methods Venous blood specimens were collected from a sample of initial study participants over a 2-week period between May and October 2021, with an oversampling of seropositive or previously infected individuals. Levels of IgG antibodies to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein were measured from serum using Anti-SARS-CoV-2-QuantiVac-ELISA (IgG) tests by Euroimmun. Information on SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations or known infections was collected via online questionnaires or telephone interviews. Results A total of 3328 participants (74% response) gave blood specimens for this follow-up study, with questionnaire information available for 2843 (85%) of these. Preliminary analyses suggest that in participants who had received two doses of a vaccine more than 3 weeks before giving blood (n = 1583), IgG levels decreased exponentially by about 9.8% (95%CI 9.1% - 10.4%) with each additional week since the last dose, when controlling for age, sex, and type of vaccine. There was evidence of this waning effect differing by vaccine type. Antibody levels also appear to decline with increasing age, according to preliminary results. Final results of the linear model used to assess the dynamics and predictive factors of antibody levels will be reported. Conclusions This follow-up study will add evidence to an improved understanding of antibody waning after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Preliminary results are in line with international studies and may be helpful for discussions on potential benefits of further vaccinations in Germany. Key messages • Antibodies induced by COVID-19 vaccination wane over time. The magnitude of this effect differs by vaccine type. Antibodies also decreased with increasing age. • Our results may be helpful for discussions on potential benefits of further COVID-19 vaccinations in Germany.

International Horizon Scanning the impact of Covid-19 on increasing the health gap and vulnerability : Liz Green

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented challenges for populations, health systems and governments worldwide, which have resulted in lasting economic, social and health impacts. The results of such have been felt disproportionately throughout society and existing vulnerabilities have been highlighted and heightened. A clear understanding of the extent of these vulnerabilities is needed in order to fully address the problem. The World Health Organization Collaborating Centre on Investment for Health and Well-being (WHOCC), Public Health Wales has developed a summary report focusing on the existing and emerging inequalities resulting from the pandemic, as identified through international evidence and learning from the International Horizon Scanning Reports. These reports, undertaken between May 2020 - August 2021, are based upon rapid evidence synthesis reviews of international literature. The summary report focuses on global learning and best practices in order to better understand and address the unequal impacts of the pandemic. The information has been categorised according to the five essential conditions required to enable a healthy life as presented within the WHO health equity conditions framework. The report provides evidence on groups most vulnerable to both direct and indirect impacts of the pandemic as well as promising practice to address the resulting inequity. Inequalities and related factors explored within the report include but are not limited to, level of deprivation and education. Taking a global perspective, this report summarises international evidence to support inclusive, sustainable, and equitable solutions, such as protecting economic well-being and taking an intergenerational lens in both response and recovery. To address and mitigate the impact of the pandemic upon vulnerable groups, collating and sharing international evidence and best practice has proven to support equitable long-term socio-economic and environmental recovery. Key messages • International learning provides vital insights to support recovery in Wales and beyond. • Responses to the pandemic should address the needs of the vulnerable to reduce existing health gaps.

Antibody Response and Cellular Phenotyping in Kidney Transplant Recipients Following Sars-CoV-2 Vaccination

Purpose: Correlates of protection for SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are not well-established in kidney transplant recipients(KTRs). Studies have highlighted the importance of neutralizing antibodies(Abs), however data suggests T cell responses may play a secondary role in preventing reinfection. We performed a longitudinal assessment of immunogenicity, T and B cell response in KTRs following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Method(s): KTRs eligible for SARS-CoV-2 vaccination from 3/12/21 were enrolled. Baseline and weekly blood samples were collected for routine lab, SARS-CoV-2 spike protein Ab titers and cellular phenotyping for 12 weeks. Ab response was defined as a 10-fold increase in total binding IgG titers. To determine if T cell responses were induced by vaccination, we considered the proportion of activated non-naive CD4+ and CD8+ T cells post-vaccination. Result(s): 49 KTRs were enrolled ( Demographics -Table 1). 10 patients (20.4%) mounted an Ab response following vaccination. A history of COVID-19 was associated with an increased likelihood of developing an Ab response (OR: 18.3, 95% CI 3.2, 105.0, p=0.0005). For non-naive CD8+ T cells, a subset co-expressing CD38+Ki67+ was induced 1 week after the 1st immunization in some SARS-CoV- 2-naiive patients (P=0.12 versus P=0.14 for SARS-CoV-2-experienced adults, Fig 1A/B). For non-naive CD4+ T cells, induction of a subset co-expressing CD38+Ki67+ was observed at 1 week after the 1st immunization for SARS-CoV-2-naive participants (P = 0.09 for SARS-CoV-2-naive, P=0.03 for SARS-CoV-2-experienced adults, Fig 1C/D). For CD8+ and CD4+ T cells, dose 2 stimulated weak induction of the CD38+Ki67+ subset in the SARS-CoV-2-naive patients only (Fig 1A-D). Conclusion(s): Quantitative Ab responses were strongly associated with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. Activated CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses were evident in most patients irrespective of history of COVID-19. Further studies are needed to determine whether these activated CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses were antigenspecific or confer immunity. (Table Presented).

Child and adolescent COVID-19 vaccination status and reasons for non-vaccination by parental vaccination status.

OBJECTIVES: COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for children ages ≥5 years. To develop effective interventions to increase uptake, this study explores reasons for parental hesitancy of child and adolescent COVID-19 vaccination. STUDY DESIGN: The Household Pulse Survey (HPS) is a nationally representative cross-sectional online household survey of adults aged ≥18 years that began data collection in April 2020 to help understand household experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: Using data from December 29, 2021, to January 10, 2022 (n = 11,478), we assessed child and adolescent COVID-19 vaccination coverage and parental intent to vaccinate their children and adolescents. Factors associated with child and adolescent vaccination coverage were examined using multivariable regression models. Reasons for not having had their child or adolescent vaccinated, stratified by parental vaccination status, were compared using tests of differences in proportions. RESULTS: Less than one-half (42.3%) of children and three-quarters (74.8%) of adolescents are vaccinated. Vaccination coverage was lower among households with lower education, as well as among children who had not had a preventive check-up in the past year. Parents of unvaccinated children were more likely to report that they do not trust COVID-19 vaccines, do not trust the government, and do not believe children need a COVID-19 vaccine compared to parents of vaccinated children. CONCLUSION: Efforts to increase uptake of vaccines by children and adolescents should target those with lower education, reassure parents of the vaccine safety and efficacy for themselves and their children/adolescents, and support yearly preventive care visits for their children.

Beyond clinical outcomes: using a disease-specific pilot survey to explore parent perceptions of wellbeing for children with short bowel syndrome

Background: Pediatric patients with short bowel syndrome (SBS) have complex medical needs that may impact their quality of life (QoL). Research has generally found children with SBS/intestinal failure (IF) to have impaired health-related QoL, but the mechanisms by which SBS shapes QoL for these patients remain unclear. Methods: A disease-specific mixed-methods pilot survey investigating wellbeing for children with SBS and their families was developed collaboratively by community stakeholders and clinicians and distributed via convenience sampling. The survey included fourteen diseasespecific items (e.g., PN, EN, toileting, eating, medical procedures), each scored on a 5-point Likert scale (1=no negative impact on child's wellbeing, 5=high negative impact on child's wellbeing);a not applicable option was additionally included for each item. Upon completion of the matrix, respondents were prompted to explain their response for each item scored with a 4 or 5 (indicating a high negative impact on child QoL). An option to describe any additional items perceived as negatively impacting their child's QoL was provided. Descriptive analyses of closed-and open-ended responses were conducted to investigate parent-perceived impact of disease-specific items on child wellbeing. Results: A total of 21 parents completed the survey. Items least frequently reported by parents as having a strong negative impact on their child's wellbeing were pain/discomfort or vomiting (23%) and utilization of PN (29%). Items related to absorption, including oral eating (33%), output-related issues (38%), and enteral feeds (41%), were more frequently reported by parents as strongly negatively impacting their child's wellbeing. Half of survey respondents (50%) perceived sleep or fatigue to have a strong negative impact. Items outside of the medical/physical domain were reported by 62% of parents as having a strong negative impact on their child's wellbeing: 39% of parents perceived their child's social life (independent of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic) to have suffered because of the condition;39% highlighted the impact of medical procedures on their child's mental health. Over half of respondents (53%) perceived two or fewer items to have a strong negative impact on their child's overall wellbeing. An additional 29% of respondents perceived 3-6 items, while 19% reported 7 or more items as having a strong negative impact on their child's wellbeing. Qualitative analyses of open-ended responses revealed no additional SBS-related items were perceived by parents as negatively shaping child wellbeing, suggesting the survey reached thematic saturation. Conclusion: These exploratory data provide insights into the parent-perceived factors shaping wellbeing for children with SBS. Better understanding how- and to what extent- these factors impact child QoL longitudinally is central to providing whole-person, patient-centered care. The conceptualization of overall wellbeing as a measurable outcome may provide members of the care team with important information to consider along with clinical factors and offer opportunities to discuss goals of care with children and their families. Future research should investigate the validity and reliability of a disease-specific child QoL measure.

Dual Mediating Effects of Information and Communication Technology Resources and Family Satisfaction on COVID-19 Knowledge Among Middle School Students

Little is known about underlying pathways regarding how middle school students can improve their COVID-19 knowledge. This study investigates the relationship between subjective poverty and COVID-19 knowledge by considering a dual mediation model. A total of 328 middle school students were included. We used a multiple mediator model developed by Preacher and Hayes, using bootstrapping approach to include a first and sequence mediators. We employed the PROCESS macro 3.4 for SPSS to test the dual mediating effects. Both Information and Communication Technology (ICT) resources and family satisfaction mediated the association between subjective poverty and knowledge about COVID-19. Further, an indirect effect of subjective poverty via the dual mediators of ICT resources and family satisfaction was found. Further, middle school students who more satisfied with their family dynamics and who had more ICT resources were more likely to have greater levels of knowledge about COVID-19. This study contributes to further understanding of pathways between subjective poverty and COVID-19 knowledge in the context of dual mediators. It is imperative to help households in poverty before and since COVID-19;specific financial supports that focus on ICT resources should be provided to increase middle school students' quality of online learning, which then helps to improve family satisfaction. The pathways influence COVID-19 knowledge.

Comparison of Outcomes in Patients Positive for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Infection after Monoclonal Antibody Therapy (MAT) with Bamlamivimab or Casirivimab-Imdevimab

Background. Limited options currently exist for treatment of patients diagnosed with symptomatic coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). Monoclonal antibody therapy (MAT) has been investigated as a therapeutic option for symptomatic COVID-19 patients in the outpatient setting at high-risk for progression to severe disease based on emergency use authorization (EUA) criteria. No published studies have compared outcomes for patients treated with different MAT for COVID-19. Methods. This was a single-center, retrospective cohort study at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center to compare COVID-19-related emergency room (ER) visits, admissions, and mortality at 30 days after MAT infusion for adult patients with symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 between November 16, 2020 and February 2, 2021 who received bamlanivimab versus those who received casirivimab-imdevimab. Statistical analysis used logistic regression analysis to determine the odds ratio (OR) to evaluate the relationship between patient characteristics, MAT, and outcomes. Results. The cohort included 943 patients with SARS-CoV-2 who received MAT, including 658 patients who received bamlanivimab and 285 who received casirivimab-imdevimab. Outcome results between patients who received bamlanivimab and casirivimab-imdevimab showed no statistically significant difference seen in the number of COVID-19 related ER visits (3.2% vs 3.5%, p = 0.80), hospital admissions (4.6% vs 2.8%, p = 0.21), or mortality (0.5% vs 0.7%, p = 0.63). Multivariate analysis showed no statistically significant difference in outcomes between the groups when accounting for potential confounders. As reflected in the Table, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), gender, and asthma were associated with increased COVID-19 related ER visit within 30 days of infusion and age, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, CLL, and lupus were associated with increased risk for COVID-19 related admission within 30 days of infusion. Age and obesity with body mass index greater than 35 mg/ kg2 were associated with increased risk for COVID-19 related mortality at 30 days. Conclusion. COVID-19 related outcomes were similar when comparing patients with COVID-19 treated with bamlanivimab versus those treated with casirivimab-imdevimab.

Outcomes in Patients Positive for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Infection after Treatment with Monoclonal Antibody Therapy (MAT) in the Outpatient Setting

Background. Monoclonal antibody therapy (MAT) was granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for treatment of mild to moderate coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in adults with positive SARSCoV-2 viral testing and at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19 with up to 10 days of symptoms. This study assessed the impact of MAT on COVID-19-related ER visits, admissions, and mortality for patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Methods. This was a single-center, retrospective study at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center to compare COVID-19-related ER visits, admissions, and mortality at 30 days after receiving MAT in the outpatient setting with either bamlanivimab or casirivimab-imdevimab in adult patients diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 between November 16, 2020 and February 2, 2021. Outcomes in patients who received MAT were compared to those of a control group of patients diagnosed with COVID-19 in the outpatient setting from May 16, 2020 through November 15, 2020 who would have qualified for MAT through EUA criteria had it been available. Statistical analysis used logistic regression analysis with backward selection to determine the odds ratios (OR) and the 95% confidence interval to evaluate the relationship between patient clinical characteristics and outcomes. Results. This study cohort included 1,944 patients, including 943 who received MAT and 1,001 in the control group. The MAT group included 658 who received bamlanivimab and 285 who received casirivimab-imdevimab. Patients who received MAT compared to the control group had a lower rate of COVID-19 related ER visits (3.3% vs 7.4%, p = < 0.0001) and hospital admissions (4.0% vs 7.8%, p = < 0.0001). No statistically significant difference was seen in mortality between the MAT group (0.5%) and control group (1.1%, p = 0.17). After accounting for potential confounders, the difference between the monoclonal antibody and control groups remained significant for ER visits and hospital admissions as reflected in the table. Conclusion. Patients who received MAT for COVID-19 in the outpatient setting had a lower rate of COVID-19-related 30 day ER visits and hospitalizations compared to those who did not receive MAT, adjusting for potential confounders.

Correcting perceived social distancing norms to combat COVID-19

Can informing people of high community support for social distancing encourage them to do more of it? In theory, the impact of such an intervention on social distancing is ambiguous, and depends on the relative magnitudes of free-riding and perceived-infectiousness effects. We randomly assigned a treatment providing information on true high rates of community social distancing support. We estimate impacts on social distancing, measured using a combination of self-reports and reports of others. While experts surveyed in advance expected the treatment to increase social distancing, we find that its average effect is close to zero and significantly lower than expert predictions. The treatment's effect is heterogeneous, as predicted by theory: it decreases social distancing where current COVID-19 cases are low (where free-riding dominates), but increases it where cases are high (where the perceived-infectiousness effect dominates).