Revealing the practical strategies for promoting Chinese migrant workers' health and well-being: Organizational empowerment perspective.

The health and well-being of migrant workers struggling to make ends meet are being compromised, especially with the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim is to analyze how organizational empowerment promotes health and well-being from an applied psychological perspective, taking into account the shaping role of individual vulnerability. Links between theory and practice will be established to achieve equitable health and well-being. The underlying mechanism by which organizational empowerment mitigated workplace-induced adverse outcomes was validated in the analysis of construction workers (n = 966). In addition, individual characteristics, namely, excitability, low perceptual threshold, control, and knowledge, attitude, and practice, were identified as critical factors, as well-being consequences vary from person to person. Moderating effect analysis showed that high excitability enhanced the association between work environment exposure and health and well-being. Control and knowledge, attitude, and practice have opposite effects. Moreover, the dual effects of the low perception threshold are verified, that is, facing the work environment produces more negative consequences, whereas perceiving more resources stimulates more positive consequences. Overall, the research provides a clearer dialectical view of vulnerability, contributing wisdom toward accurate management based on empowerment theory, which lays a solid foundation for bridging gaps in health and well-being.

Changes in COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptability among Parents with Children Aged 6-35 Months in China-Repeated Cross-Sectional Surveys in 2020 and 2021.

China is considering to offer COVID-19 vaccination for children aged 6−35 months. This study investigated the changes in COVID-19 vaccine acceptability and associated factors among parents with children aged 6−35 months in 2020 and 2021. Two rounds of cross-sectional online surveys were conducted among adult factory workers in Shenzhen, China. A subset of 208 (first round) and 229 (second round) parents with at least one child aged 6−35 months was included in the study. Parental acceptability of COVID-19 vaccination increased significantly from 66.8% in the first round to 79.5% in the second round (p = 0.01). Positive attitudes, perceived subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control were associated with higher parental acceptability in both rounds of surveys (p values ranged from <0.001 to 0.003). A negative association of negative attitudes with parental acceptability was observed in the second round (p = 0.02). No significant associations of exposure to information related to COVID-19 vaccination on social media with parental acceptability was found in either round of survey. Expanding the existing COVID-19 vaccination programs to cover children aged 6−35 months is necessary in China. Future programs should focus on modifying perceptions among parents to promote COVID-19 vaccination for children in this age group.

Impact of internet plus health education on urinary stoma caregivers in coping with care burden and stress in the era of COVID-19.

Objective: To explore the impact of "Internet Plus Health Education" on coping with care burden and pressure in urinary stoma caregivers in the era of COVID-19. Materials and methods: Eighty caregivers of patients with urinary ostomy were equally randomized to experimental and control groups. Caregivers in the experimental group received digital nursing education intervention, which involved nursing intervention of Internet Plus Health Education (IPHE), and those in the control group received conventional care instructions. Six months later, care burden and emotional pressure were assessed in all caregivers using the Zarit Caregiver Burden Interview (ZBI) and the Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire (SCSQ). Results: Before the intervention, the ZBI and SCSQ scores were comparable between both groups (p > 0.05). After the intervention, the ZBI scores in the experimental group were significantly higher than in the control group and vice versa for SCSQ scores (p < 0.01). Furthermore, after the intervention, the family care satisfaction scale (FCSS) of the experimental group was significantly higher than the control group. Conclusion: Providing "Internet Plus Health Education" to urinary stoma caregivers can reduce their care burden and enhance their pressure-coping ability in the COVID-19 era.

The Peripandemic Impact of the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Management and Prognosis of ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction in China.

BACKGROUND: Rapid reperfusion of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) has been challenging during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak. Whether and to what degree there will be a residual impact when the COVID-19 pandemic has passed is unclear. METHODS: This nationwide retrospective study was based on electronic records of STEMI patients registered in the Chinese Cardiovascular Association Database. RESULTS: We analyzed 141,375 STEMI patients (including 4871 patients in Hubei province, where 80% of COVID-19 cases in China occurred in 2019-2020) during the pre-outbreak (23 October 2019-22 January 2020), outbreak (23 January 2020-22 April 2020), and post-outbreak (23 April 2020-22 July 2020) periods. In the post-outbreak period in Hubei province, the increased in-hospital mortality dropped to become insignificant (adjusted odds ratio compared to the pre-outbreak level (aOR) 1.40, [95% confidential interval (CI): 0.97-2.03]) and was lower than that in the outbreak period (1.62 [1.09-2.41]). The decreased odds of primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) (0.73 [0.55-0.96]) and timely reperfusion (0.74 [0.62-0.88]) persisted, although they were substantially improved compared to the outbreak period (aOR of primary PCI: 0.23 [0.18-0.30] and timely reperfusion: 0.43 [0.35-0.53]). The residual impact of COVID-19 on STEMI in the post-outbreak period in non-Hubei provinces was insignificant. CONCLUSIONS: Residual pandemic impacts on STEMI management persisted after the first wave of the COVID-19 outbreak in Hubei province, the earliest and hardest hit area in China.

Changes in HIV Testing Utilization Among Chinese Men Who Have Sex With Men During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Shenzhen, China: An Observational Prospective Cohort Study.

Background: The Coronavirus Diseases 2019 (COVID-19) directly affects HIV prevention and sexual health services utilization among men who have sex with men (MSM). This study investigated changes in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing utilization among MSM before and after the COVID-19 pandemic received initial control in Shenzhen, China. Methods: This study was a sub-analysis of a prospective observational cohort study conducted among MSM in Shenzhen, China between August 2020 and May 2021. Participants were recruited through outreaching in gay venues, online recruitment, and peer referral. Participants completed a baseline online survey between August and September 2020 and a follow-up online survey between April and May 2021. This study was based on 412 MSM who reported to be HIV-negative/unknown sero-status at baseline, 297 (72.1%) of them completed the follow-up online survey. Multilevel logistic regression models (level 1: sources of recruitment; level 2: individual participants) were fitted. Results: When comparing follow-up data with baseline data, a significant increase was observed in the uptake of any type of HIV testing (77.9% at Month 6 vs. 59.2% at baseline, p < 0.001). After adjusting for age group, education level, current employment status and monthly personal income, two predisposing factors were associated with higher uptake of HIV testing during the follow-up period. They were: (1) condomless anal intercourse with male non-regular male sex partners at follow-up only (AOR: 5.29, 95%CI: 1.27, 22.01) and (2) sanitizing before and after sex at baseline (AOR: 1.26, 95%CI: 1.02, 1.47). Regarding enabling factors, utilization of HIV testing (AOR: 3.90, 95%CI: 2.27, 6.69) and STI testing (AOR: 2.43, 95%CI: 1.20, 4.93) 6 months prior to the baseline survey was associated with higher uptake of HIV testing during the follow-up period. Having the experience that HIV testing service providers reduced service hours during the follow-up period was also positively associated with the dependent variable (AOR: 3.45, 95%CI: 1.26, 9.41). Conclusions: HIV testing utilization among MSM might rebound to the level before the COVID-19 outbreak after the pandemic received initial control in China. This study offered a comprehensive overview to identify potential reasons that can influence the uptake of HIV testing among Chinese MSM.

Changes in Parents' COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy for Children Aged 3-17 Years before and after the Rollout of the National Childhood COVID-19 Vaccination Program in China: Repeated Cross-Sectional Surveys.

China started to implement COVID-19 vaccination programs for children in July 2021. This study investigated the changes in parents' COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy for children before and after the vaccination program rollout. Repeated cross-sectional online surveys among full-time adult factory workers were conducted in Shenzhen, China. This analysis was based on 844 (first round) and 1213 parents (second round) who had at least one child aged 3-17 years. The prevalence of vaccine hesitancy for children aged 3-11 years dropped from 25.9% (first round) to 17.4% (second round), while such a prevalence for children aged 12-17 years dropped from 26.0% (first round) to 3.5% (second round) (p < 0.001). Positive attitudes, a perceived subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control related to children's COVID-19 vaccination were associated with lower vaccine hesitancy in both rounds. In the second round and among parents with children aged 3-11 years, negative attitudes and exposure to information on SARS-CoV-2 infection after receiving a primary vaccine series were associated with higher vaccine hesitancy, while exposure to experiences shared by vaccine recipients and infectiousness of variants of concern were associated with lower vaccine hesitancy. Regular monitoring of vaccine hesitancy and its associated factors among parents should be conducted to guide health promotion.

Changes in HIV Testing Utilization Among Chinese Men Who Have Sex With Men During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Shenzhen, China: An Observational Prospective Cohort Study

Background The Coronavirus Diseases 2019 (COVID-19) directly affects HIV prevention and sexual health services utilization among men who have sex with men (MSM). This study investigated changes in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing utilization among MSM before and after the COVID-19 pandemic received initial control in Shenzhen, China. Methods This study was a sub-analysis of a prospective observational cohort study conducted among MSM in Shenzhen, China between August 2020 and May 2021. Participants were recruited through outreaching in gay venues, online recruitment, and peer referral. Participants completed a baseline online survey between August and September 2020 and a follow-up online survey between April and May 2021. This study was based on 412 MSM who reported to be HIV-negative/unknown sero-status at baseline, 297 (72.1%) of them completed the follow-up online survey. Multilevel logistic regression models (level 1: sources of recruitment;level 2: individual participants) were fitted. Results When comparing follow-up data with baseline data, a significant increase was observed in the uptake of any type of HIV testing (77.9% at Month 6 vs. 59.2% at baseline, p < 0.001). After adjusting for age group, education level, current employment status and monthly personal income, two predisposing factors were associated with higher uptake of HIV testing during the follow-up period. They were: (1) condomless anal intercourse with male non-regular male sex partners at follow-up only (AOR: 5.29, 95%CI: 1.27, 22.01) and (2) sanitizing before and after sex at baseline (AOR: 1.26, 95%CI: 1.02, 1.47). Regarding enabling factors, utilization of HIV testing (AOR: 3.90, 95%CI: 2.27, 6.69) and STI testing (AOR: 2.43, 95%CI: 1.20, 4.93) 6 months prior to the baseline survey was associated with higher uptake of HIV testing during the follow-up period. Having the experience that HIV testing service providers reduced service hours during the follow-up period was also positively associated with the dependent variable (AOR: 3.45, 95%CI: 1.26, 9.41). Conclusions HIV testing utilization among MSM might rebound to the level before the COVID-19 outbreak after the pandemic received initial control in China. This study offered a comprehensive overview to identify potential reasons that can influence the uptake of HIV testing among Chinese MSM.

Efficient Production of Solar Hydrogen Peroxide Using Piezoelectric Polarization and Photoinduced Charge Transfer of Nanopiezoelectrics Sensitized by Carbon Quantum Dots.

Piezoelectric semiconductors have emerged as redox catalysts, and challenges include effective conversion of mechanical energy to piezoelectric polarization and achieving high catalytic activity. The catalytic activity can be enhanced by simultaneous irradiation of ultrasound and light, but the existing piezoelectric semiconductors have trouble absorbing visible light. A piezoelectric catalyst is designed and tested for the generation of hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 ). It is based on Nb-doped tetragonal BaTiO3 (BaTiO3 :Nb) and is sensitized by carbon quantum dots (CDs). The photosensitizer injects electrons into the conduction band of the semiconductor, while the piezoelectric polarization directed electrons to the semiconductor surface, allowing for a high-rate generation of H2 O2 . The piezoelectric polarization field restricts the recombination of photoinduced electron-hole pairs. A production rate of 1360 µmol gcatalyst -1  h-1  of H2 O2  is achieved under visible light and ultrasound co-irradiation. Individual piezo- and photocatalysis yielded lower production rates. Furthermore, the CDs enhance the piezocatalytic activity of the BaTiO3 :Nb. It is noted that moderating the piezoelectricity of BaTiO3 :Nb via microstructure modulation influences the piezophotocatalytic activity. This work shows a new methodology for synthesizing H2 O2  by using visible light and mechanical energy.

The Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on HIV Testing Utilization Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in China: Cross-sectional Online Survey.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has created disruptions in HIV prevention and sexual health services for men who have sex with men (MSM). OBJECTIVE: This study compared HIV testing utilization in 3 different reference periods (period 1: before the COVID-19 outbreak, November 2019-January 2020; period 2: after the outbreak, February-April 2020; and period 3: after the pandemic was under initial control, May-July 2020). Factors associated with HIV testing utilization after the COVID-19 outbreak (combined periods 2 and 3) were also investigated. METHODS: Participants were MSM aged ≥18 years living in Shenzhen, China. Those self-reporting as HIV positive were excluded. A total of 595 participants recruited through multiple sources completed a self-administered online survey during August-September 2020. HIV testing utilization after the COVID-19 outbreak was the dependent variable, and multivariate logistic regression models were fitted. RESULTS: HIV testing utilization was significantly lower in period 2 than in period 1 (n=262 vs 363, 44.0% vs 61.0%, P<.001). However, HIV testing utilization was not significantly higher in period 3 than in period 2 (n=277 vs 262, 46.6% vs 44.0%, P=.21). The prevalence of HIV testing utilization after the COVID-19 outbreak was seen in 331 (55.6%) participants. After adjusting for significant background characteristics, condomless anal intercourse (CAI) with regular male sex partners (RPs; adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.15, 95% CI 1.29-3.57) and sexualized drug use (SDU; AOR 2.94, 95% CI 1.41-6.06) both before and after the COVID-19 outbreak, CAI with RPs (AOR 2.07, 95% CI 1.06-4.07) and nonregular male sex partners (NRPs; AOR 3.57, 95%CI: 1.43-8.89) only after the COVID-19 outbreak was positively associated with the dependent variable. Regarding HIV prevention service utilization, HIV testing utilization before the COVID-19 outbreak (AOR 10.75, 95% CI 7.22-16.02) and the use of sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing (AOR 7.02, 95% CI 4.10-12.02), other HIV/STI prevention (AOR 3.15, 95% CI 2.16-4.60), and preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP; AOR 3.58, 95% CI 1.54-8.34) after the COVID-19 outbreak were associated with higher HIV testing utilization. The current perceived risk of HIV infection was higher than that before the COVID-19 outbreak (AOR 1.15, 95% CI 1.01-1.30), and perceived COVID-19 preventive measures taken by HIV testing service providers to be effective (AOR 1.52, 95% CI 1.29-1.78) and perceived higher behavioral control to undergo HIV testing (AOR 1.18, 95% CI 1.00-1.40) were positively associated with HIV testing utilization. Concerns about COVID-19 infection during HIV testing (AOR 0.78, 95% CI 0.68-0.89), avoiding crowded places (AOR 0.68, 95% CI 0.48-0.98), and HIV testing service providers reducing their working hours (AOR 0.59, 95% CI 0.48-0.98) were negatively associated with the dependent variable. CONCLUSIONS: HIV testing utilization among Chinese MSM declined after the COVID-19 outbreak and did not increase after the pandemic was under initial control. Removing structural barriers to accessing HIV testing caused by COVID-19, modifying perceptions related to HIV testing, and making use of HIV self-testing (HIVST) might be useful strategies to improve HIV testing among MSM during the pandemic.

Behavioral Intention to Get a Booster Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine among Chinese Factory Workers.

China started to offer a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine to members of the adult population in October 2021. This study investigated the behavioral intention to receive a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine among factory workers who had completed their primary vaccination series. Participants were full-time factory employees at least 18 years of age in Shenzhen, China. In Shenzhen, factory workers need to receive a physical examination every year. The study sites covered all six organizations providing physical examinations for factory workers. All eligible workers attending these sites between 26 and 31 October 2021 were invited to complete an online survey. This study was based on 2329 participants who had completed the primary COVID-19 vaccination series. Two-level logistic regression models were fitted. Among the participants, 84% intended to receive a free booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine within the next six months. After controlling for significant background characteristics, we found that perceptions related to a booster dose as well as interpersonal level factors such as information exposure on social media, thoughtful consideration of the veracity of the information, and satisfaction with vaccine-related promotional materials were determinants of behavioral intention. Factory workers in China reported a high level of behavioral intention to receive a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among cold-chain workers in Shenzhen, China: A cross-sectional survey.

Given the high level of exposure to SARS-CoV-2, cold-chain workers are considered priority vaccination groups. To date, many studies have reported on the willingness within distinct populations to be vaccinated against COVID-19, whereas it has not been reported among cold-chain workers worldwide. To address this void, we conducted a cross-sectional survey to gather general information, COVID-19-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP), and willingness to receive a COVID-19 vaccine among cold-chain workers in Shenzhen, China. Binary logistic analyses were conducted to explore the associations between COVID-19-related KAP factors and the willingness for COVID-19 vaccination. Among 244 cold-chain workers, 76% indicated that they were willing to be vaccinated. Knowledge about SARS-CoV-2, comprehending the most effective prevention, understanding the transmission routes, and recognizing the priority vaccination groups were positively associated with willingness to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Regarding attitude factors, perceiving the social harmfulness and severity of COVID-19 were related to a higher willingness to vaccination. Participants considering themselves a priority group for COVID-19 vaccination were more likely to get vaccinated. For practice factors, attaining more knowledge and higher self-reported compliance with maintaining adequate ventilation were also positively associated with the dependent variable. Agreement on the importance of COVID-19 vaccination was the most frequent reason for accepting the COVID-19 vaccine; additionally, concerns about side effects and insufficient understanding of efficacy were the main factors contributing to vaccine refusal. Enhancing KAP levels related to COVID-19 helps promote vaccine acceptance. Health authorities should promptly implement educational activities following the updated vaccine status among cold-chain workers.

Factors Predicting COVID-19 Vaccination Uptake Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in China: An Observational Prospective Cohort Study.

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has disproportionately affected sexual minorities including men who have sex with men (MSM). This study investigated factors associated with the uptake of COVID-19 vaccination among MSM in China. Methods: Inclusion criteria were: (1) born biologically male, (2) had oral or anal sex with men in the past year, (3) aged at least 18 years, and (4) lived in Shenzhen, China. Prospective participants were recruited through outreach in gay bars and saunas, online recruitment, and peer referrals. Participants completed a baseline online survey between August and September 2020 and a follow-up online survey between April and May 2021. Logistic regression models were fitted for data analysis. Results: Among 420 participants who completed the baseline survey, 303 completed the follow-up survey. Among participants being followed up, 113 (37%) received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccination during the study period. After adjusting for significant sociodemographic characteristics, five baseline predisposing factors predicted COVID-19 vaccination uptake during the follow-up period, including asking whether their partners had COVID-19 symptoms [adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 1.17, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.00-1.38], washing hands before and after sex (AOR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.03-1.46), sanitizing before and after sex (AOR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.00-1.37), perceived higher risk of COVID-19 transmission through sexual behaviors (AOR: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.04-1.58), and panic about COVID-19 (AOR: 1.48, 95% CI: 1.16-1.89). Regarding enabling factors, receiving testing for sexually transmitted infections (STI) (AOR: 2.19, 95% CI: 1.25-3.85) and other prevention measures for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/STI (AOR: 2.61, 95% CI: 1.56-4.37) 6 months prior to the baseline survey were associated with higher uptake of COVID-19 vaccination. Conclusion: MSM's uptake rate of COVID-19 vaccination was comparable to that of the general population in Shenzhen, China. This study offered an overview for us to identify tapping points that can encourage COVID-19 vaccination uptake among Chinese MSM.

Isolation of Elizabethkingia anophelis From COVID-19 Swab Kits.

Purpose: To investigate and characterize the putative Elizabethkingia anophelis contaminant isolated from throat and anal swab samples of patients from three fever epidemic clusters, which were not COVID-19 related, in Shenzhen, China, during COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Bacteria were cultured from throat (n = 28) and anal (n = 3) swab samples from 28 fever adolescent patients. The isolated bacterial strains were identified using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/MS) and the VITEK2 automated identification system. Nucleic acids were extracted from the patient samples (n = 31), unopened virus collection kits from the same manufacturer as the patient samples (n = 35, blank samples) and from unopened throat swab collection kits of two other manufacturers (n = 22, control samples). Metagenomic sequencing and quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) detection were performed. Blood serum collected from patients (n = 13) was assessed for the presence of antibodies to E. anophelis. The genomic characteristics, antibiotic susceptibility, and heat resistance of E. anophelis isolates (n = 31) were analyzed. Results: The isolates were identified by MALDI-TOF/MS and VITEK2 as Elizabethkingia meningoseptica. DNA sequence analysis confirmed isolates to be E. anophelis. The patients' samples and blank samples were positive for E. anophelis. Control samples were negative for E. anophelis. The sera from a sub-sample of 13 patients were antibody-negative for isolated E. anophelis. Most of the isolates were highly homologous and carried multiple ß-lactamase genes (bla B, bla GOB, and bla CME). The isolates displayed resistance to nitrofurans, penicillins, and most ß-lactam drugs. The bacteria survived heating at 56°C for 30 min. Conclusion: The unopened commercial virus collection kits from the same manufacturer as those used to swab patients were contaminated with E. anophelis. Patients were not infected with E. anophelis and the causative agent for the fevers remains unidentified. The relevant authorities were swiftly notified of this discovery and subsequent collection kits were not contaminated. DNA sequence-based techniques are the definitive method for Elizabethkingia species identification. The E. anophelis isolates were multidrug-resistant, with partial heat resistance, making them difficult to eradicate from contaminated surfaces. Such resistance indicates that more attention should be paid to disinfection protocols, especially in hospitals, to avoid outbreaks of E. anophelis infection.

Characteristics, Comorbidities, and Outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Patients With Autoimmune Conditions Treated With Systemic Therapies: A Population-based Study.

OBJECTIVE: To describe characteristics and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) clinical outcomes of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), or ulcerative colitis (UC) receiving systemic therapies vs the general population. METHODS: This descriptive retrospective cohort study used data from the United States Optum deidentified COVID-19 electronic health record dataset (2007-2020). Adults with COVID-19 were stratified into 3 disease cohorts (patients with RA, PsA, or UC who had received systemic therapy) and a comparator cohort not meeting these criteria. Incidence proportions of hospitalization and clinical manifestations of interest were calculated. Using logistic regression analyses, risk of endpoints was estimated, adjusting for demographics and demographics plus comorbidities. RESULTS: This analysis (February 1 to December 9, 2020) included 315,101 patients with COVID-19. Adjusting for demographics, COVID-19 patients with RA (n = 2306) had an increased risk of hospitalization (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.39-1.70) and in-hospital death (OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.30-2.00) compared with the comparator cohort (n = 311,563). The increased risk was also observed when adjusted for demographics plus comorbidities (hospitalization OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.13-1.39 and in-hospital death OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.09-1.68]). The risk of hospitalization was lower in COVID-19 patients with RA receiving tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) vs non-TNFi biologics (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.20-0.53) and the comparator cohort (OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.51-1.17). The risk of hospitalization due to COVID-19 was similar between patients receiving tofacitinib and the comparator cohort. CONCLUSION: Compared with the comparator cohort, patients with RA were at a higher risk of more severe or critical COVID-19 and, except for non-TNFi biologics, systemic therapies did not further increase the risk. (ENCePP; registration no. EU PAS 35384).

Factors associated with COVID-19 vaccination acceptance among industrial workers in the post-vaccination era: a large-scale cross-sectional survey in China.

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 pandemic continues to pose a huge threat to public health. Mass vaccination is needed to achieve herd immunity against SARS-CoV-2. Currently, several vaccines are being inoculated on a large-scale. The willingness of COVID-19 vaccination had been well investigated in the pre-vaccination era, but no reported data in the post-vaccination era yet. METHODS: We conducted a large-scale survey among industrial workers during the vaccination campaign in China. Chi-square test and rank sum test were used to identify differences for various intentions regarding COVID-19 vaccination. Univariate analysis and multivariate regression models were utilized to analyze the relationship among demographic factors, related influencing factors and acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination. RESULTS: A total of 23,940 industrial workers were included, 66.0% were willing to take COVID-19 vaccine, 16.6% were unwilling, and 17.4% were unsure. Participants were more likely to get vaccinated if they were male, aged 45-65, being good educated, married, or being recommended by doctors or nurses. Participants with strong risk perception of COVID-19 infection, strong confidence in COVID-19 vaccine, high attention to COVID-19 vaccine, good health status, bad health habit, and a history of vaccination within three months were also more likely to be vaccinated. CONCLUSIONS: This study calls for more attention and health-related education among industrial workers to improve their acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination.

Characteristics, Comorbidities, and Outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Patients With Conditions Treated With Systemic Immunosuppressive Therapies: A Population-Based Study

Incidence proportions of hospitalization, intensive care unit admission, in-hospital death, all-cause mortality, and clinical manifestations of interest were calculated. Baseline Characteristics and IPs of Clinical Manifestations/Outcomes in the RA, PsA, UC, and Comparator Cohorts. a.At least 1 diagnosis of RA, PsA, or UC, and treatment with IM therapy (JAK inhibitor, TNFi, non-TNFi biologic, or csDMARD) within 2 yrs prior to SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis date;b.Absence of a diagnosis of RA, PsA, or UC, and no treatment with IM therapy within 2 yrs prior to SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis date;c.Baseline was defined as within 6 months prior to SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis date;d.csDMARDs included auranofin, aurothioglucose, azathioprine, chloroquine hydrochloride, chloroquine phosphate, cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine, gold sodium thiomalate, hydroxychloroquine sulfate, leflunomide, mercaptopurine, mesalamine, methotrexate, minocycline hydrochloride, n-acetylpenicillamine, penicillamine, primaquine, sulfasalazine, tacrolimus, and thalidomide;e.Within 90 days prior to SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis date;f.Denominator is the number of pts hospitalized within 30 days of SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis;defined as death during hospitalization;g.Within 90 days of SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis date;h.Within 30 days of SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis date. ARDS, acute respiratory distress syndrome;CI, confidence interval;csDMARD, conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug;ECMO, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation;ICU, intensive care unit;IM, immunomodulatory;IP, incidence proportion;IV, intravenous;JAK, Janus kinase;N, number of pts in the cohort;n, number of pts in the specified category;PsA, psoriatic arthritis;pts, patients;RA, rheumatoid arthritis;TNFi, tumor necrosis factor inhibitor;UC, ulcerative colitis.

Influenza Vaccination Coverage among Older Adults with Hypertension in Shenzhen, China: A Cross-Sectional Survey during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

BACKGROUND: Older individuals with hypertension are at a high risk of being infected with influenza. However, there have been few studies investigating the influenza vaccination status among older people with hypertension. The present work aimed to estimate the vaccination coverage and determine the predictors of seasonal influenza vaccinations among hypertensive patients aged over 60 years in Shenzhen, China. METHOD: The study used data from an online cross-sectional survey that was conducted in Shenzhen City, China, in October 2020. Frequencies and proportions of all the variables including sociodemographic characteristics and health-related information were described and tabulated based on the influenza vaccination status. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent predictors associated with the influenza vaccination. RESULTS: A total of 5216 older people with hypertension aged above 60 years were recruited. Overall, only 4.7% had received an influenza vaccine in the latest influenza season. Using the action toward being vaccinated as the primary outcome, the multivariable regression analysis showed that participants aged over 80 years (aOR 2.957, 95% CI: 1.784-4.900), obtaining higher education levels (aOR 1.424, 95% CI: 1.060-1.914 for high school, aOR 1.681, 95% CI: 1.066-2.650 for college or above), living with a partner (aOR 1.432, 95% CI: 1.068-1.920), using a family doctor (aOR 2.275, 95% CI: 1.744-2.968), and taking a physical examination 1-2 and ≥3 times each year (aOR 2.107, 95% CI: 1.601-2.772 and aOR 2.118, 95% CI: 1.083-4.143, respectively) were more likely to be vaccinated. In contrast, smokers had less likelihood of having the influenza vaccination than non-smokers (aOR 1.829, 95% CI: 1.208-2.767). CONCLUSIONS: The coverage rate of influenza vaccinations is far away from optimistic among older adults with hypertension. Additional works should be undertaken immediately to improve the influenza vaccination status.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Toward COVID-19 Among Chinese Teachers, Shenzhen: An Online Cross-sectional Study During the Global Outbreak of COVID-19.

Background: Adequate understanding and precautionary behaviors are of vital importance to contain the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). To date, the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward COVID-19 among different populations have been reported, whereas such information is unavailable in teachers. We aimed to investigate the KAP of teachers associated with COVID-19 during the global outbreak. Methods: A large-scale population-based survey was conducted to gather information on COVID-19-related KAP among Chinese teachers using a self-administered questionnaire. We received 10,658 responses in April 2020, out of which 8,248 were enrolled in the final analysis. Participants responded to a self-administered questionnaire concerning demographic characteristics and KAP associated with COVID-19. Results: This work included 4,252 (51.6%) teachers in kindergartens, 2,644 (32.1%) teachers in primary schools, and 1,352 (16.4%) teachers in secondary schools. The knowledge level (mean: 4.46 out of seven points) was relatively lower than the levels of attitudes (mean: 3.27 out of four points) and practices (mean: 4.29 out of five points) toward COVID-19. Knowledge scores significantly varied by the collected demographic variables except education worksite (p < 0.05), whereas practice scores significantly differed in age groups (p < 0.05), education level (p < 0.001), education worksite (p < 0.001), and years of teaching (p < 0.001). The multivariate logistic analysis indicated that poor knowledge related to COVID-19 was common among men, younger, and less-educated teachers. In contrast, female teachers and those with higher education levels tend to have good practices against COVID-19. Conclusion: The present work suggested the knowledge gaps regarding COVID-19 were needed to be corrected immediately in teachers. Given the critical role of teachers in the education system, health authorities should take gender, age, and education level into account when developing suitable health interventions.

Coronavirus induces diabetic macrophage-mediated inflammation via SETDB2.

COVID-19 induces a robust, extended inflammatory "cytokine storm" that contributes to an increased morbidity and mortality, particularly in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Macrophages are a key innate immune cell population responsible for the cytokine storm that has been shown, in T2D, to promote excess inflammation in response to infection. Using peripheral monocytes and sera from human patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and a murine hepatitis coronavirus (MHV-A59) (an established murine model of SARS), we identified that coronavirus induces an increased Mφ-mediated inflammatory response due to a coronavirus-induced decrease in the histone methyltransferase, SETDB2. This decrease in SETDB2 upon coronavirus infection results in a decrease of the repressive trimethylation of histone 3 lysine 9 (H3K9me3) at NFkB binding sites on inflammatory gene promoters, effectively increasing inflammation. Mφs isolated from mice with a myeloid-specific deletion of SETDB2 displayed increased pathologic inflammation following coronavirus infection. Further, IFNß directly regulates SETDB2 in Mφs via JaK1/STAT3 signaling, as blockade of this pathway altered SETDB2 and the inflammatory response to coronavirus infection. Importantly, we also found that loss of SETDB2 mediates an increased inflammatory response in diabetic Mϕs in response to coronavirus infection. Treatment of coronavirus-infected diabetic Mφs with IFNß reversed the inflammatory cytokine production via up-regulation of SETDB2/H3K9me3 on inflammatory gene promoters. Together, these results describe a potential mechanism for the increased Mφ-mediated cytokine storm in patients with T2D in response to COVID-19 and suggest that therapeutic targeting of the IFNß/SETDB2 axis in T2D patients may decrease pathologic inflammation associated with COVID-19.

Tofacitinib Use in Adults with Chronic Inflammatory Disease During the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Pandemic: What Is Known So Far?

BACKGROUND: Concerns have been raised that the risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, or more severe or critical coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), may be higher in immunocompromised individuals receiving immunomodulatory therapies compared with immunocompetent individuals. Tofacitinib is an oral Janus kinase inhibitor for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and polyarticular course juvenile idiopathic arthritis. To date, data on tofacitinib treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic are limited. OBJECTIVES: To summarize current understanding of the use of tofacitinib in adults during the COVID-19 pandemic, and discuss research questions that are yet to be addressed, to further inform the safe and effective use of tofacitinib in clinical practice. METHODS: We conducted a review of the literature (as of February 2021), to summarize the expert recommendations for the management of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ulcerative colitis in the context of COVID-19, and to assess the current data regarding the use of tofacitinib in adult patients during the pandemic. RESULTS: Current recommendations for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ulcerative colitis state that tofacitinib treatment should be continued during the pandemic, except in cases of positive or presumed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. However, limited data are available; analyses of data from international rheumatology and gastroenterology registries have suggested that tofacitinib may not be associated with an increased risk of hospitalization or treatment switching in adults with COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS: Further assessment of tofacitinib use in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or ulcerative colitis will be required to elucidate and establish the benefit:risk profile of tofacitinib during the current COVID-19 pandemic.