ABSTRACT
The development of financial technology has promoted the innovation and digital transformation of commercial banks. Through digital transformation, commercial banks can improve bank efficiency and operational capabilities. Through empirical analysis, this study explored the relationship between digital bank transformation and commercial bank operating capabilities and how COVID-19, bank categories, and enterprise life cycles affect the relationship between digital bank transformation and commercial bank operating capabilities. This study selected data from China's commercial banks from 2011 to 2021 and used the regression method of fixed effects to conduct an empirical analysis. The research results show that the digital transformation of banks has improved the operational capabilities of commercial banks. Further analysis showed that the emergence of COVID-19 has negatively affected their relationship. At the same time, compared with rural commercial banks and commercial banks in the recession and phase-out periods, non-rural commercial banks and commercial banks in the growth and maturity stages play a more vital moderating role in the impact of the digital transformation of banks on the financial performance of commercial banks. The main research object of this study is Chinese commercial banks, and this study examines the results of banks' digital transformation and enriches the research on digital transformation. At the same time, this study is helpful to investors who like investment banks and has good practical significance.
ABSTRACT
Inclusive digital financial services should welcome older populations and make them beneficiaries of the digital and financial revolution. To understand older adults' experience of using digital financial tools, we conducted an online survey of 268 older internet users aged 60 or above from urban areas of 14 Chinese provinces after China's nationwide COVID-19 lockdown in 2021. Our results revealed that older internet surfers were active in digital financial activities and engaged most with activities that were highly compatible with their lifestyles. Active users significantly differed from inactive users in sociodemographics, confirming that a digital divide related to social stratification exists among older internet users. Digital finance active users were also distinguished from inactive users' attitudes and perceptions toward digital finance. Logistic regression results indicated that perceived usefulness, access to proper devices for digital finance, risk perceptions, and perceived exclusion if not using technology were associated with their adoption of these advanced tools. Older adults reported the perceived inconvenience of in-person financial services during the lockdown. They also expressed a willingness to participate in relevant training if provided. The findings of this study could help aging-related practitioners to understand older adults' engagement in digital finance and guide policy and project design in the area of financial inclusion of the aging population.
ABSTRACT
BackgroundComprehensive and large-scale assessment of health-related quality of life in patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) worldwide is lacking. The second COVID-19 vaccination in autoimmune disease (COVAD-2) study [1] is an international, multicentre, self-reported e-survey assessing several aspects of COVID-19 infection and vaccination as well as validated patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) to outline patient experience in various autoimmune diseases (AIDs), with a particular focus on IIMs.ObjectivesTo investigate physical and mental health in a global cohort of IIM patients compared to those with non-IIM autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIRDs), non-rheumatic AIDs (NRAIDs), and those without AIDs (controls), using Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) global health data obtained from the COVAD-2 survey.MethodsDemographics, AID diagnoses, comorbidities, disease activity, treatments, and PROMs were extracted from the COVAD-2 database. The primary outcomes were PROMIS Global Physical Health (GPH) and Global Mental Health (GMH) scores. Secondary outcomes included PROMIS physical function short form-10a (PROMIS PF-10a), pain visual analogue scale (VAS), and PROMIS Fatigue-4a scores. Each outcome was compared between IIMs, non-IIM AIRDs, NRAIDs, and controls. Factors affecting GPH and GMH scores in IIMs were identified using multivariable regression analysis.ResultsA total of 10,502 complete responses from 1582 IIMs, 4700 non-IIM AIRDs, 545 NRAIDs, and 3675 controls, which accrued as of May 2022, were analysed. Patients with IIMs were older [59±14 (IIMs) vs. 48±14 (non-IIM AIRDs) vs. 45±14 (NRAIDs) vs. 40±14 (controls) years, p<0.001] and more likely to be Caucasian [82.7% (IIMs) vs. 53.2% (non-IIM AIRDs) vs. 62.4% (NRAIDs) vs. 34.5% (controls), p<0.001]. Among IIMs, dermatomyositis (DM) and juvenile DM were the most common (31.4%), followed by inclusion body myositis (IBM) (24.9%). Patients with IIMs were more likely to have comorbidities [68.1% (IIMs) vs. 45.7% (non-IIM AIRDs) vs. 45.1% (NRAIDs) vs. 26.3% (controls), p<0.001] including mental disorders [33.4% (IIMs) vs. 28.2% (non-IIM AIRDs) vs. 28.4% (NRAIDs) vs. 17.9% (controls), p<0.001].GPH median scores were lower in IIMs compared to NRAIDs or controls [13 (interquartile range 10–15) IIMs vs. 13 (11–15) non-IIM AIRDs vs. 15 (13–17) NRAIDs vs. 17 (15–18) controls, p<0.001] and PROMIS PF-10a median scores were the lowest in IIMs [34 (25–43) IIMs vs. 40 (34–46) non-IIM AIRDs vs. 47 (40–50) NRAIDs vs. 49 (45–50) controls, p<0.001]. GMH median scores were lower in AIDs including IIMs compared to controls [13 (10–15) IIMs vs. 13 (10–15) non-IIM AIRDs vs. 13 (11–16) NRAIDs vs. 15 (13–17) controls, p<0.001]. Pain VAS median scores were higher in AIDs compared to controls [3 (1–5) IIMs vs. 4 (2–6) non-IIM AIRDs vs. 2 (0–4) NRAIDs vs. 0 (0–2) controls, p<0.001]. Of note, PROMIS Fatigue-4a median scores were the highest in IIMs [11 (8–14) IIMs vs. 8 (10–14) non-IIM AIRDs vs. 9 (7–13) NRAIDs vs. 7 (4–10) controls, p<0.001].Multivariable regression analysis in IIMs identified older age, male sex, IBM, comorbidities including hypertension and diabetes, active disease, glucocorticoid use, increased pain and fatigue as the independent factors for lower GPH scores, whereas coexistence of interstitial lung disease, mental disorders including anxiety disorder and depression, active disease, increased pain and fatigue were the independent factors for lower GMH scores.ConclusionBoth physical and mental health are significantly impaired in patients with IIMs compared to those with non-IIM AIDs or those without AIDs. Our results call for greater attention to patient-reported experience and comorbidities including mental disorders to provide targeted approaches and optimise global well-being in patients with IIMs.Reference[1]Fazal ZZ, Sen P, Joshi M, et al. COVAD survey 2 long-term outcomes: unmet need and protocol. Rheumatol Int. 2022;42:2151–58.AcknowledgementsThe authors a e grateful to all respondents for completing the questionnaire. The authors also thank The Myositis Association, Myositis India, Myositis UK, the Myositis Global Network, Cure JM, Cure IBM, Sjögren's India Foundation, EULAR PARE for their contribution to the dissemination of the survey. Finally, the authors wish to thank all members of the COVAD study group for their invaluable role in the data collection.Disclosure of InterestsAkira Yoshida: None declared, Yuan Li: None declared, Vahed Maroufy: None declared, Masataka Kuwana Speakers bureau: Boehringer Ingelheim, Ono Pharmaceuticals, AbbVie, Janssen, Astellas, Bayer, Asahi Kasei Pharma, Chugai, Eisai, Mitsubishi Tanabe, Nippon Shinyaku, Pfizer, Consultant of: Corbus, Mochida, Grant/research support from: Boehringer Ingelheim, Ono Pharmaceuticals, Naveen Ravichandran: None declared, Ashima Makol Consultant of: Boehringer-Ingelheim, Parikshit Sen: None declared, James B. Lilleker: None declared, Vishwesh Agarwal: None declared, Sinan Kardes: None declared, Jessica Day Grant/research support from: CSL Limited, Marcin Milchert: None declared, Mrudula Joshi: None declared, Tamer A Gheita: None declared, Babur Salim: None declared, Tsvetelina Velikova: None declared, Abraham Edgar Gracia-Ramos: None declared, Ioannis Parodis Grant/research support from: Amgen, AstraZeneca, Aurinia Pharmaceuticals, Eli Lilly, Gilead Sciences, GlaxoSmithKline, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Novartis, and F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Elena Nikiphorou Speakers bureau: Celltrion, Pfizer, Sanofi, Gilead, Galapagos, AbbVie, Eli Lilly, Consultant of: Celltrion, Pfizer, Sanofi, Gilead, Galapagos, AbbVie, Eli Lilly, Grant/research support from: Pfizer, Eli Lilly, Ai Lyn Tan Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Gilead, Janssen, Eli Lilly, Novartis, Pfizer, UCB, Consultant of: AbbVie, Gilead, Janssen, Eli Lilly, Novartis, Pfizer, UCB, Arvind Nune: None declared, Lorenzo Cavagna: None declared, Miguel A Saavedra Consultant of: AbbVie, GlaxoSmithKline, Samuel Katsuyuki Shinjo: None declared, Nelly Ziade Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Boehringer-Ingelheim, Eli Lilly, Janssen, Pfizer, Roche, Consultant of: AbbVie, Boehringer-Ingelheim, Eli Lilly, Janssen, Pfizer, Roche, Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Boehringer-Ingelheim, Eli Lilly, Janssen, Pfizer, Roche, Johannes Knitza: None declared, Oliver Distler Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Amgen, Bayer, Boehringer Ingelheim, Janssen, Medscape, Novartis, Consultant of: 4P-Pharma, AbbVie, Acceleron, Alcimed, Altavant, Amgen, AnaMar, Arxx, AstraZeneca, Baecon, Blade, Bayer, Boehringer Ingelheim, Corbus, CSL Behring, Galderma, Galapagos, Glenmark, Gossamer, iQvia, Horizon, Inventiva, Janssen, Kymera, Lupin, Medscape, Merck, Miltenyi Biotec, Mitsubishi Tanabe, Novartis, Prometheus, Redxpharma, Roivant, Sanofi, Topadur, Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Amgen, Boehringer Ingelheim, Kymera, Mitsubishi Tanabe, Novartis, Roche, Hector Chinoy Grant/research support from: Eli Lilly, UCB, Vikas Agarwal: None declared, Rohit Aggarwal Consultant of: Mallinckrodt, Octapharma, CSL Behring, Bristol Myers-Squibb, EMD Serono, Kezar, Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Alexion, Argenx, Boehringer Ingelheim (BI), Corbus, Janssen, Kyverna, Roivant, Merck, Galapagos, Actigraph, Abbvie, Scipher, Horizontal Therapeutics, Teva, Biogen, Beigene, ANI Pharmaceutical, Nuvig, Capella, CabalettaBio, Grant/research support from: Bristol Myers-Squibb, Pfizer, Mallinckrodt, Janssen, Q32, EMD Serono, Boehringer Ingelheim, Latika Gupta: None declared.
ABSTRACT
BackgroundThe second COVID-19 vaccination in autoimmune disease (COVAD-2) study [1] is an international, multicentre, self-reported e-survey designed to evaluate several facets covering COVID-19 infection and vaccination as well as validated patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in a variety of autoimmune diseases (AIDs), including systemic sclerosis (SSc). Detailed assessment of the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and its drivers in patients with SSc is lacking.ObjectivesTo assess physical and mental health in a global cohort of SSc patients in comparison with non-SSc autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIRDs), non-rheumatic AIDs (NRAIDs), and those without AIDs (controls) using Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) global health data from the COVAD-2 survey.MethodsThe COVAD-2 database was used to extract demographics, AID diagnosis, comorbidities, disease activity, current therapies, and PROMs. PROMIS global physical health (GPH), global mental health (GMH) scores, PROMIS physical function short form-10a (PROMIS PF-10a), pain visual analogue scale (VAS), and PROMIS Fatigue-4a scores were compared between SSc, non-SSc AIRDs, NRAIDs, and controls. Outcomes were also compared between diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc) vs limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc). Multivariable regression analysis was performed to identify factors influencing GPH and GMH scores in SSc.ResultsA total of 10,502 complete responses from 276 SSc, 6006 non-SSc AIRDs, 545 NRAIDs, and 3675 controls as of May 2022 were included in the analysis. Respondents with SSc were older [SSc vs. non-SSc AIRDs vs. NRAIDs vs. controls: 55 (14) vs. 51 (15) vs. 45 (14) vs. 40 (14) years old, mean (SD), p < 0.001]. Among patients with SSc, 129 (47%) had dcSSc and 147 (53%) had lcSSc. SSc patients reported a significantly higher prevalence of ILD [SSc vs. non-SSc AIRDs vs. NRAIDs vs. controls: 30.4% vs. 5.5% vs. 1.5% vs. 0.2%, p < 0.001], and treatment with MMF [SSc vs. non-SSc AIRDs vs. NRAIDs vs. controls: 26.4% vs. 9.5% vs. 1.1% vs. 0%, p < 0.001].Patients with SSc had lower GPH and PROMIS PF-10a scores [SSc vs. non-SSc AIRDs vs. NRAIDs vs. controls: 13 (11–15) vs. 13 (11–15) vs. 15 (13–17) vs. 17 (15–18), median (IQR), p < 0.001;39 (33–46) vs. 39 (32–45) vs. 47 (40–50) vs. 49 (45–50), p < 0.001, respectively] and higher Pain VAS and PROMIS Fatigue-4a scores compared to those with NRAIDs or controls [SSc vs. non-SSc AIRDs vs. NRAIDs vs. controls: 3 (2–5) vs. 3 (1–6) vs. 2 (0–4) vs. 0 (0–2), p < 0.001;11 (8–14) vs. 11 (8–14) vs. 9 (7–13) vs. 7 (4–10), p < 0.001, respectively]. Patients with AIDs including SSc had lower GMH scores compared to controls [SSc vs. non-SSc AIRDs vs. NRAIDs vs. controls: 12.5 (10–15) vs. 13 (10–15) vs. 13 (11–16) vs. 15 (13–17), p < 0.001].Among SSc patients, GPH, GMH, and PROMIS PF-10a scores were lower in dcSSc compared to lcSSc [dcSSc vs. lcSSc: 12 (10–14) vs. 14 (11–15), p < 0.001;12 (10-14) vs. 13 (10-15), p<0.001;38 (30–43) vs. 41 (34–47), p < 0.001, respectively]. Pain VAS and PROMIS Fatigue-4a scores were higher in dcSSc compared to lcSSc [4 (2–6) vs. 3 (1–5), p < 0.001;12 (8–15) vs. 9 (8–13), p < 0.001, respectively].The independent factors for lower GPH scores in SSc were older age, Asian ethnicity, glucocorticoid use, and higher pain and fatigue scales, while mental health disorders and higher pain and fatigue scales were independently associated with lower GMH scores.ConclusionIn a global cohort, patient-reported physical and mental health were significantly worse in patients with SSc in comparison to those with non-SSc AIDs and without AIDs. Our findings support the critical need for more attention to patient's subjective experiences including pain and fatigue to improve the HRQOL in patients with SSc.Reference[1]Fazal ZZ, Sen P, Joshi M, et al. COVAD survey 2 long-term outcomes: unmet need and protocol. Rheumatol Int. 2022;42: 2151–58.Acknowledgements:NIL.Disclosure of InterestsKeina Yomono: None declared, Yuan Li: None dec ared, Vahed Maroufy: None declared, Naveen Ravichandran: None declared, Akira Yoshida: None declared, Kshitij Jagtap: None declared, Tsvetelina Velikova Speakers bureau: Pfizer and AstraZeneca, Parikshit Sen: None declared, Lorenzo Cavagna: None declared, Vishwesh Agarwal: None declared, Johannes Knitza: None declared, Ashima Makol: None declared, Dey Dzifa: None declared, Carlos Enrique Toro Gutierrez: None declared, Tulika Chatterjee: None declared, Aarat Patel: None declared, Rohit Aggarwal Consultant of: Bristol Myers-Squibb, Pfizer, Genentech, Octapharma, CSL Behring, Mallinckrodt, AstraZeneca, Corbus, Kezar, Abbvie, Janssen, Kyverna Alexion, Argenx, Q32, EMD-Serono, Boehringer Ingelheim, Roivant, Merck, Galapagos, Actigraph, Scipher, Horizon Therepeutics, Teva, Beigene, ANI Pharmaceuticals, Biogen, Nuvig, Capella Bioscience, and CabalettaBio, Grant/research support from: Bristol Myers-Squibb, Pfizer, Genentech, Octapharma, CSL Behring, Mallinckrodt, AstraZeneca, Corbus, Kezar, Abbvie, Janssen, Kyverna Alexion, Argenx, Q32, EMD-Serono, Boehringer Ingelheim, Roivant, Merck, Galapagos, Actigraph, Scipher, Horizon Therepeutics, Teva, Beigene, ANI Pharmaceuticals, Biogen, Nuvig, Capella Bioscience, and CabalettaBio, Latika Gupta: None declared, Masataka Kuwana Speakers bureau: Abbvie, Asahi-Kasei, Astellas, Boehringer-Ingelheim, Chugai, Eisai, MBL, Mochida, Nippon Shinyaku, Ono Pharmaceuticals, Tanabe-Mitsubishi, Consultant of: Astra Zeneka, Boehringer-Ingelheim, Chugai, Corbus, GSK, Horizon, Tanabe-Mitsubishi, Grant/research support from: Boehringer-Ingelheim, Vikas Agarwal: None declared.
ABSTRACT
This study examined the impact of attitudes toward life, recreational sports values, and workplace risk perceptions on urban development and public well-being under the risk of the COVID-19 epidemic in China. A mixed-method research study was conducted, and 2400 valid questionnaires were collected via purposeful sampling. The questionnaires were analyzed using the SPSS 26.0 statistical software and validated with basic statistical methods and Pearson's correlation analysis. Semi-structured interviews were then conducted to collect the opinions of 12 respondents on the questionnaire results, including academics, foreign entrepreneurs and employees, local entrepreneurs and employees, and official institutions. Finally, all the data collected were discussed via triangulation analysis. The survey found that different cities' social and industrial development and job market needs lead to different attitudes toward life, leisure values, and perceptions of job-seeking and employment risks. The smoother a person's growing-up background, the better their learning history, the better their learning and working experience, and the richer their life experience;consequently, positive attitudes toward life, correct leisure values, and positive attitudes toward job hunting and employment can be cultivated. In addition, people with positive attitudes toward life, leisure values, and job hunting and employment can improve their city's economy and environment for sustainable development, thereby improving their quality of life and increasing their well-being.
ABSTRACT
In the early occurrence of the Covid-19 pandemic, Indonesian and the world regarded Bali having a unique mechanism. Balinese or Bali residents are assumed excellently immune or difficulty infected from Covid-19. Interestingly, Balinese do not show overwhelmed panic as occurs in other areas although the Covid-19 cases in Bali are not low. There are various reasons why Balinese's actions to protect their health consider beliefs, religion, and culture. This paper is a survey of the Balinese's distinctive perception and behavior to face Covid-19. The information was gained from comments, opinions, and information about typical behavior posted on mass media and social media. The main source of the information was the WhatsApp groups of Banjar community (60 people), Bali academicians (76 people), Hindu organization alumni (113 people), and Bali medical staff (30 people). This study collected the information and conversations during early months of the pandemic in 2020 and 2021 when the Covid-19 cases skyrocketed and the government implemented the Community Activities Restrictions Enforcement (PPKM). This study concludes that the belief in the power of nature makes the sincerity and acceptance more easily appear. Moreover, tradition strengthens the trust. Support in social life also increases cooperative actions to the rules or advices of the Bali government and the custom village assembly to protect society from the pandemic.Copyright © 2021 Muslim OT et al.
ABSTRACT
This study identified and analysed the job satisfaction of married female employees working from home during the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic. The research was conducted in Jakarta. This study adopted a quantitative approach, using surveys and sturctural equation modelling (SEM). The results were then obtained using the Lisrel 8.5 program. The population in this study were female employees who were married and working from home in Jakarta. The sampling technique used was a nonprobability sampling method, with a purposive sampling technique. The findings are surprising, as work from home (WFH) had no positive effect on work stress and work-life balance. Work-life balance also had no negative effect on job satisfaction. The implication of this finding is that companies can make new policies that regulate working hours and put in place new mechanisms for working in the office or from home. © 2022, Nigerian Economic Society. All rights reserved.
ABSTRACT
Objectives: Treatment of severe respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to COVID-19 by veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) had a mortality of up to 70% in Germany. Many patients with COVID-19 need VV-ECMO support longer than 28 days (long-term VV-ECMO). Evidence on mortality, complications during intensive care, functional status after discharge and mortality-predictors for patients supported with long-term VV-ECMO is lacking. Method(s): Retrospective study of 137 consecutive patients treated with VV-ECMO for ARDS due to COVID-19 at University Hospital Regensburg from March 2020 to March 2022. Result(s): 38% (n=52;87% male) of patients needed longterm VV-ECMO support. In these, SOFA score (median [IQR]) at ECMO initiation was 9 [8-11], age 58.2 [50.6- 62.5] years, PaO2/FiO2-ratio 67 [52-88] mmHg, pCO262 [52-74] mmHg, Murray-Score 3.3 [3.0-3.6] and PEEP 15 [13 - 16] cmH2O. Duration of long-term support was 45 [35-65] days. 26 (50%) patients were discharged from the ICU. Only one patient died after hospital discharge. At VVECMO initiation, baseline characteristics did not differ between deceased and survivors. Complications were frequent (acute kidney injury: 31/52, renal replacement therapy: 14/52, pulmonary embolism: 21/52, intracranial hemorrhage 8/52, major bleeding 34/52 and secondary sclerosing cholangitis: 5/52) and more frequent in the deceased. Karnofsky index (normal 100) after rehabilitation was 70 [57.5-82.5]. Twelve of the 18 patients discharged from rehabilitation had a satisfactory quality of life according to their own subjective assessment. Four patients required nursing support. Mortality-predictors within the first 30 days on VV-ECMO only observed in those who deceased later, were: Bilirubin >5mg/dl for > 7 days, pulmonary compliance <10ml/mbar for >14 days, and repeated serum concentrations of interleukin 8 >150ng/L. Conclusion(s): Long-term extracorporeal lung support in patients with COVID-19 resulted in 50 % survival and subsequently lead to a satisfactory quality of life and functionality in the majority of patients. It should preferably be performed in experienced centers because of a high incidence of complications. Several findings during the early course were associated with late mortality but need validation in large prospective studies.
ABSTRACT
Organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) is necessary in overcoming emergency conditions, including learning difficulties such as experienced during and after the Covid-19 pandemic. Therefore, this research explored the visionary leadership effects of teachers' OCB through quality of work-life (QWL) and organizational commitment, and developed a new empirical model of the mediation mechanism. A quantitative approach with a survey method was used in this research, where Likert-scale questionnaires were distributed to 387 social sciences teachers in Indonesia. Using structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis, it was found that visionary leadership, QWL, and organizational commitment have a significant effect on OCB;visionary leadership significantly influences QWL and organizational commitment;and visionary leadership has a significant effect on OCB through QWL and organizational commitment. This evidence promotes a new model regarding the effect of visionary leadership on teachers' OCB mediated by QWL and organizational commitment. It not only confirms several previous studies as the basis for developing this research hypothesis, but is also an antithesis to previous research with contradictory conclusions. With such conditions, the new model provides theoretical and practical contributions which require in-depth and critical discussion before it is adopted or adapted as a model in improving teacher OCB via visionary leadership supported by QWL and organizational commitment. © Authors This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)
ABSTRACT
Last week, eight prominent biotech industry executives publicly emphasized the importance of rigorous clinical research and complete study data to support any authorization or approval of a new covid vaccine or treatment. Hahn raises concerns These statements aim to offset fears that fda might soften its approval standards due to pressure from the White House to make available a covid vaccine in October. Continuing predictions from the White House about a vaccine being available in two months, and instructions from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that state public health departments should be prepared to distribute a vaccine by the end of October, heightened concerns that political pressure will lead to some kind of authorization of a new vaccine before the Nov. 3 election.
ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we develop and extend the above analogy by means of a thought experiment in which a vaccine for the pandemic of aging is developed. We ask first, whether the concept of a vaccine for the pandemic of aging is conceptually coherent, and second whether such a vaccine (or similar aging preventive) is ethically desirable. This chapter makes the case that, while there are some clear disanalogies between aging and typical pandemics like the COVID-19 pandemic, there are some striking similarities that advocate for similar degrees of urgency. Moreover, the comparison throws important light on some of the flawed objections to healthy life-extending technologies. © The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2023.
ABSTRACT
BackgroundThis study was aimed to investigate whether patients with epilepsy (PWE) have higher depression and anxiety levels than the normal population in low-risk areas for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the northern part of Guizhou Province, China, during the COVID-19 epidemic, to evaluate their knowledge on COVID-19, and to analyze related factors for the psychological distress of PWE at this special time.MethodsThe survey was conducted online from February 28, 2020 to March 7, 2020 via a questionnaire. PWE from the outpatient clinic of epilepsy of the Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, and healthy people matched for age and sex, participated in this study. Mental health was assessed via a generalized anxiety self-rating scale (GAD-7) and the self-rating depression scale (PHQ-9). The knowledge of COVID-19 in both groups was investigated.ResultsThere were no significant differences in the general demographics between the PWE and healthy control groups. The scores of PHQ-9 (P < 0.01) and GAD-7 (P < 0.001) were higher in the PWE group than in the healthy group. There was a significant difference in the proportions of respondents with different severities of depression and anxiety, between the two groups, which revealed significantly higher degree of depression and anxiety in PWE than in healthy people (P = 0, P = 0). Overwhelming awareness and stressful concerns for the pandemic and female patients with epilepsy were key factors that affect the level of anxiety and depression in PWE. Further, the PWE had less accurate knowledge of COVID-19 than healthy people (P < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in the knowledge of virus transmission route, incubation period, susceptible population, transmission speed, clinical characteristics, and isolation measures on COVID-19 (P > 0.05). PWE knew less about some of the prevention and control measures of COVID-19 than healthy people.ConclusionsDuring the COVID-19 epidemic, excessive attention to the epidemic and the female sex are factors associated with anxiety and depression in PWE, even in low-risk areas.
ABSTRACT
Aims The study aimed to examine the nature and outcomes of social support for the well-being and quality of life (QoL) of adults with epilepsy. Methods The Australian Epilepsy Longitudinal Survey's 5 th Wave included the Medical Outcomes Study Modified Social Support Survey on four dimensions of social support and the QOLIE-31. Both numerical data and open-ended responses were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. A mixed method was used where quantitative analysis used t -tests, analysis of variance and block recursive regression, and qualitative analysis identified themes. Results Three-hundred thirty-two people with epilepsy (PWE) participated. The quantitative component showed that for emotional/informational support being older and living alone were key factors. These as well as household income were important in tangible support. For affectionate support living alone and household income were factors, but only income was a factor for positive social interaction. In addition, only positive social interaction predicted increased QoL. In the qualitative component of the study both positive and negative supports were identified for the emotional/informational supports. Many reported the benefits of having information, although some reported failure to have their needs taken seriously by health professionals or epilepsy associations. Inability to drive was an important feature of negative tangible support as was finding some assistive services unaffordable. Reports of positive social interaction identified being accepted as a person with epilepsy that is the primary concern. Peer support plays a role here. Discussion The findings of factors affecting the four dimensions of support in this study have supported a number of studies. This includes the effects of positive social interaction on QoL. The qualitative analysis supports these results, but it also contributes to deeper understanding of support in the lives of PWE. Conclusion Social support is a particularly important issue for PWE. The results of this study demonstrate the complexities and benefits of obtaining the appropriate forms of support. This survey took place before the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and it may well be that this phenomenon affects PWE's support needs. Copyright © 2023. Indian Epilepsy Society. All rights reserved.
ABSTRACT
BackgroundPsoriasis (PsO) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) can greatly impact quality of life and result in substantial personal and societal costs. Complete and up to date data on the prevalence and incidence of these conditions and whether these change over time and vary by age is important for healthcare service planning so that specialist care and funding can be appropriately allocated.ObjectivesTo determine the prevalence and incidence of PsO and PsA in males and females from 2009-2019 across all age groups in England.MethodsWe used Clinical Practice Research Datalink AURUM, a primary care electronic health record database, including 20% of the English population. The codes used to identify patients with PsO and PsA were selected by rheumatologists and dermatologists and cross-checked with published code lists from other studies to ensure inclusion of all relevant codes. All included patients must have data for at least 1 year before their diagnosis. The annual incidence and point prevalence were calculated from 2009-2019 and stratified by age/sex. The study period ended in 2019 to avoid COVID-19 pandemic affecting results.ResultsThe prevalence of PsO and PsA in males and females increased annually, peaking in 2019 (PsO males 2.41% [95% confidence interval (CI) 2.40, 2.42];PsO females 2.60% [95% CI 2.59-2.61];PsA males 0.20% [95% CI 0.20-0.20];PsA females 0.21% [95% CI 0.21- 0.22]), as illustrated in Table 1. In 2019, the prevalence of PsO and PsA was highest in the over 65 years age group;PsO 4.25% [95% CI 4.22-4.28] and PsA 0.38% [95% CI 0.37-0.38]. The annual incidence (per 100,000 person years) of PsO has gradually decreased in males (from 168 (164-171) in 2009 to 148 (145-151) in 2019) but in females it has been stable with a slight annual decrease (from 180 (177-184) in 2009 to 173 (170-176) in 2019). The annual incidence for PsA has increased in both males and females (13 (12-14) in 2009 and 15 (14-16) in 2019 for males and 12 (11-13) in 2009 and 18 (17-19) in 2019 for females).ConclusionThe increasing prevalence of PsO and PsA highlights the importance of organising healthcare services to meet this need, particularly in the elderly population.ReferencesNIL.Table 1.Prevalence of PsO and PsA from 2009-2019 in EnglandYear20092010201120122013201420152016201720182019Population (n)1073383110910802110318501118036711343299112249341137842211657996119336261223432512420998PsO (n)216841229106239819250667259988268032276804286499295712304568311104PsO prevalence (%, 95%CI)-Male1.98 (1.96-1.99)2.06 (2.05- 2.07)2.13 (2.12-2.14)2.19 (2.18-2.20)2.24 (2.23- 2.25)2.33 (2.32- 2.34)2.37 (2.36- 2.38)2.39 (2.38- 2.40)2.40 (2.39- 2.41)2.40 (2.39- 2.42)2.41 (2.40- 2.42)-Female2.07 (2.05- 2.08)2.14 (2.13- 2.16)2.22 (2.21- 2.23)2.29 (2.28- 2.31)2.35 (2.33- 2.36)2.45 (2.43- 2.46)2.50 (2.49- 2.51)2.53 (2.52- 2.54)2.56 (2.54- 2.57)2.58 (2.56- 2.59)2.60 (2.59- 2.61)PsO incidence (100,000 person years)-Male168 (164-171)158 (155- 162)161 (158-165)153 (150-157)161 (157- 164)156 (153- 159)155 (152- 159)154 (151- 157)153 (150-156)150 (147-153)148 (145-151)-Female180 (177-184)176 (172-179)181 (177-184)171 (167-174)175 (171-178)176 (172-180)179 (176-183)178 (174-181)177 (174-181)174 (170-177)173 (170-176)PsA (n)1444515443164681752218545196182072021994232572451425683PsA prevalence (%, 95%CI)-Male0.14 (0.14- 0.14)0.15 (0.14- 0.15)0.15 (0.15- 0.16)0.16 (0.16- 0.16)0.17 (0.16- 0.17)0.18 (0.17- 0.18)0.18 (0.18- 0.19)0.19 (0.18- 0.19)0.19 (0.19- 0.20)0.20 (0.19- 0.20)0.20 (0.20- 0.20)-Female0.13 (0.13- 0.13)0.14 (0.13- 0.14)0.15 (0.14- 0.15)0.15 (0.15- 0.16)0.16 (0.16- 0.16)0.17 (0.17- 0.18)0.18 (0.18- 0.18)0.19 (0.19- 0.19)0.20 (0.19- 0.20)0.20 (0.20- 0.21)0.21 (0.21- 0.22)PsA incidence (100,000 person years)-Male13 (12- 14)12 (11- 13)13 (12- 14)12 (11- 13)13 (12-14)14 (13- 15)14 (13- 15)14 (13-15)1514-16)14(13- 15)15 (14-16)-Female12 (11- 13)13 (12- 14)13 (12- 14)14 (13-15)14 (13-15)15 (14-16)17 (16- 18)16 (15- 17)17 (16- 18)18 (17-19)18 (17-19)Acknowledgements:NIL.Disclosure of InterestsArani Vivekanantham: None declared, Edward Burn: None dec ared, Marta Pineda-Moncusí: None declared, Sara Khalid Grant/research support from: SK has received research grant funding from the UKRI and Alan Turing Institute outside this work. SK's research group has received grant support from Amgen and UCB Biopharma., Daniel Prieto-Alhambra Grant/research support from: DPA's department has received grant/s from Amgen, Chiesi-Taylor, Lilly, Janssen, Novartis, and UCB Biopharma. His research group has received consultancy fees from Astra Zeneca and UCB Biopharma. Amgen, Astellas, Janssen, Synapse Management Partners and UCB Biopharma have funded or supported training programmes organised by DPA's department., Laura Coates Speakers bureau: LC has been paid as a speaker for AbbVie, Amgen, Biogen, Celgene, Eli Lilly, Galapagos, Gilead, Janssen, Medac, Novartis, Pfizer and UCB., Consultant of: LC has worked as a paid consultant for AbbVie, Amgen, Boehringer Ingelheim, Bristol Myers Squibb, Celgene, Eli Lilly, Gilead, Galapagos, Janssen, Novartis, Pfizer and UCB., Grant/research support from: LC has received grants/research support from AbbVie, Amgen, Celgene, Eli Lilly, Novartis and Pfizer.
ABSTRACT
The study aims to analyze the livelihood strategies related to the labour market during the coronavirus pandemic in the context of the material and income situation in Roma communities in a multicultural rural area of Covasna County, Romania. The data source comprises adapted sociological research that was carried out using multiple methods in 2021, in three localities: Boroșneu, Ojdula, and Zăbala in Covasna County, Romania. Of the dimensions examined, housing deprivation, material deprivation, and unemployment were of particular importance. Based on these dimensions, we analyzed the local economic situation and social services;we then developed a typology of dimensions to analyze the livelihood strategies of Roma groups from different socio-economic backgrounds during the coronavirus pandemic. We tried to answer questions about the changes and ways of adaptation in the livelihood strategies of Roma communities to the restrictions that occurred during the coronavirus pandemic in Romania from 2020–2021. The results of the research show that during the period of the COVID-19 pandemic, the material and income situations worsened for people previously employed in the informal labour market, involved in precarious work, and those of very low work intensity in selected rural Roma communities in Covasna County. Neither the regulations and legal measures introduced, nor the social protection system, was sensitive to the needs of the Roma, who were the most vulnerable to the social consequences of the pandemic restrictions. © 2023 by the author.
ABSTRACT
BackgroundRheumatoid arthritis (RA) and spondyloarthritis, including either Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) and Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), are some of the most diagnosed autoimmune rheumatic diseases (AIRDs) in rheumatologists' routine clinical practice [1]. Understanding patients' health and functional status is crucial to provide personalized management strategies to optimize disease control and enhance the quality of life.ObjectivesWe aimed to compare disease burden in patients with RA, PsA or AS by assessing Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Physical Health, Global Mental Health, Physical Function and Fatigue 4a together with VAS Pain.MethodsData were obtained in the international COVID vaccination in autoimmune rheumatic diseases study second e-survey (COVAD study). Demographics, AIRD diagnosis, disease activity, PROMIS Global Physical health, PROMIS Global Mental Health, PROMIS Physical Function SF10 and PROMIS Fatigue 4a score were extracted from the COVAD study database. For this study, we only included patients with self-reported RA or spondyloarthritis (either PsA or AS) undergoing active treatment with conventional synthetic disease-modifying drugs (DMARDs) and/or biologic DMARDs, who answered all the survey questions. Active disease was defined as the patient's perception of their disease as active in the four weeks before their first COVID-19 vaccine shot. Analysis of Variance with Bartlett's and Tukey's test was used to compare continuous variables between groups.ResultsFrom January to June 2022, n.1907 patients with RA, female 87.62% (1671/1907), with mean age (±SD) 50.95 ±13.67, n.311 patients with PsA, female 67.20% (209/311), with a mean age of 50.42 ±12.70, and n.336 patients with AS, male 51.31% (209/311), with a mean age of 43.13 ±12.75 years, responded to the COVAD e-survey.In those with active disease, neither physical health, global mental health, physical function, fatigue, nor pain were different among groups (Table 1, Figure 1). Patients with inactive AS had higher mean global physical health scores than RA patients (13.13 ±2.93 VS RA 12.48 ±2.90, p=0.01, Table 1). Those with inactive RA or PsA showed more severe fatigue (PsA 10.58 ±2.22, RA 10.45 ±4.08 VS 9.4 ±4.13, p =0.01 for both). Patients with inactive RA also reported poorer physical function and more residual pain than those with AS (37.79 ±8.86 VS 41.13 ±7.79, p<0.001;3.87 ±2.45 VS 3.34 ±2.39, p=0.01, respectively). Similarly, residual pain was perceived as higher in patients with inactive PsA than those with AS (4.04 ±2.50 VS 3.34 ±2.39, p=0.01)ConclusionDisease burden is roughly comparable in patients with active RA, PsA or AS. Patients with inactive RA and PsA suffer higher disease burden than those with inactive AS.Reference[1]Mease PJ, Liu M, Rebello S, Kang H, Yi E, Park Y, Greenberg JD. Comparative Disease Burden in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, or Axial Spondyloarthritis: Data from Two Corrona Registries. Rheumatol Ther. 2019 Dec;6(4):529-542.Table 1.Patient-Reported Outcome Measures between groups.Inactive diseaseAS (n.185)PsA (n.179)RA (n.1167)MeanSDMeanSDMeanSDPROMIS Global Physical Health13.13*2.9512.433.2712.482.90p=0.01, VS RAPROMIS Global Mental Health13.313.3612.973.3312.843.17PROMIS Fatigue 4a9.44.1310.58*4.2210.45*4.08p=0.01, bothPROMIS Physical Function SF10 Score41.137.3939.279.0137.79*8.86p<0.001, VS ASVAS Pain3.342.394.04*2.503.87*2.45p=0.01, bothActive DiseaseAS (n.35)PsA (n.38)RA (n.189)MeanSDMeanSDMeanSDPROMIS Global Physical Health11.053.1910.102.7611.243.41PROMIS Global Mental Health11.313.2610.843.6311.893.30PROMIS Fatigue 4a12.944.8712.844.4211.754.68PROMIS Physical Function SF10 Score35.829.6233.528.7634.909.80VAS Pain4.682.775.02.544.682.61Figure 1.Violin plots showing kernel densities, quartiles and median for Patient-Reported Outcome Measures for patients with RA, PsA and AS, stratified by disease activity status.[Figure omitted. See PDF]Acknowledgements:NIL.Disclosure of InterestsVincenzo Venerito: None declared, Marc Fornaro: None declared, Florenzo Iannone: None declared, Lorenzo Cavagna: None declared, Masataka Kuwana: None declared, Vishwesh Agarwal: None declared, Naveen Ravichandran: None declared, Jessica Day Grant/research support from: JD has received research funding from CSL Limited., Mrudula Joshi: None declared, Sreoshy Saha: None declared, Syahrul Sazliyana Shaharir: None declared, Wanruchada Katchamart: None declared, Phonpen Akarawatcharangura Goo: None declared, Lisa Traboco: None declared, Yi-Ming Chen: None declared, Parikshit Sen: None declared, James B. Lilleker Speakers bureau: JBL has received speaker honoraria/participated in advisory boards for Sanofi Genzyme, Roche, and Biogen. None is related to this manuscript., Consultant of: JBL has received speaker honoraria/participated in advisory boards for Sanofi Genzyme, Roche, and Biogen. None is related to this manuscript., Arvind Nune: None declared, John Pauling: None declared, Chris Wincup: None declared, Ai Lyn Tan Speakers bureau: ALT has received honoraria for advisory boards and speaking for Abbvie, Gilead, Janssen, Lilly, Novartis, Pfizer, and UCB., Nelly Ziade Speakers bureau: NZ has received speaker fees, advisory board fees, and research grants from Pfizer, Roche, Abbvie, Eli Lilly, NewBridge, Sanofi-Aventis, Boehringer Ingelheim, Janssen, and Pierre Fabre;none are related to this manuscript, Grant/research support from: NZ has received speaker fees, advisory board fees, and research grants from Pfizer, Roche, Abbvie, Eli Lilly, NewBridge, Sanofi-Aventis, Boehringer Ingelheim, Janssen, and Pierre Fabre;none are related to this manuscript, Marcin Milchert: None declared, Abraham Edgar Gracia-Ramos: None declared, Carlo Vinicio Caballero: None declared, COVAD Study: None declared, Vikas Agarwal: None declared, Rohit Aggarwal Speakers bureau: RA has a consultancy relationship with and/or has received research funding from the following companies: Bristol Myers-Squibb, Pfizer, Genentech, Octapharma, CSL Behring, Mallinckrodt, AstraZeneca, Corbus, Kezar, Abbvie, Janssen, Alexion, Argenx, Q32, EMD-Serono, Boehringer Ingelheim, and Roivant., Grant/research support from: RA has a consultancy relationship with and/or has received research funding from the following companies: Bristol Myers-Squibb, Pfizer, Genentech, Octapharma, CSL Behring, Mallinckrodt, AstraZeneca, Corbus, Kezar, Abbvie, Janssen, Alexion, Argenx, Q32, EMD-Serono, Boehringer Ingelheim, and Roivant., Latika Gupta: None declared.
ABSTRACT
Aims: The DisCOVery study sought to better understand the experiences of young people with complex emerging mental health problems over the longer-term social restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Following the 'social cure' theory, this study aimed to investigate the association, and potential mechanisms, of group membership continuity and reducing mental ill-health amongst vulnerable young people. Method(s): Cross-sectional survey data from a sample of 105 young people aged 16-35, collected approximately 1 year after the global COVID-19 outbreak (January-July 2021). Correlational and path analyses were used to test the associations between group membership continuity and mental health problems (depression, anxiety, psychotic-like experiences), and the mediation of these associations by hope and social connectedness (in-person and online). Results and Conclusion(s): Prior multiple group memberships were associated with the preservation of group memberships during the COVID-19 pandemic. In-person social connectedness, online social connectedness and hope mediated the relationship between group membership continuity and mental health problem symptoms. The results suggest that clinical and public health practice should support vulnerable young people to foster and maintain their social group memberships, hopefulness and perceived sense of social connectedness as a means to potentially help prevent exacerbated symptoms and promote recovery of mental health problems, particularly during significant life events.
ABSTRACT
Aims: Trauma is particularly prevalent amongst Early Intervention (EI) patients and is associated with adverse clinical and prognostic outcomes. To determine the feasibility of a large-scale randomized controlled trial (RCT) of an 'EMDR for psychosis' intervention for trauma survivors with active psychotic symptoms supported by EI services, we conducted a single-blind RCT comparing 16 sessions of EMDRp + TAU versus TAU only. Method(s): EMDRp therapy and trial assessments were completed both in-person and remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic, and key feasibility outcomes (recruitment & retention, therapy attendance/ engagement, adherence to EMPRp treatment protocol, and the 'promise of efficacy' of EMDRp on relevant clinical outcomes) were examined at 6- and 12-month post-randomization assessments. Results and Conclusion(s): 60 participants (100% of the recruitment target) received TAU or EMDR + TAU. The feasibility criteria examined in this trial were fully met, and EMDRp was associated with promising signals of efficacy on a range of valuable post-treatment outcomes, including improved psychotic symptoms (PANSS), subjective recovery (QPR), post-traumatic symptoms (PCL-5;ITQ), depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7) and general health status (EQ-5D-VAS) at the 6-month assessment. Signals of efficacy at 12-month were less pronounced, but remained robust for trauma symptoms and general health status. The findings will be discussed with relevance to future clinical trials of trauma-focused therapy in clients with early psychosis, and the provision of more tailored trauma therapies for EI service users.
ABSTRACT
The COVID-19 pandemic has cost the lives of an enormous number of individuals around the world, isolated people, and disrupted businesses. These are the direct and devastating consequences of the disease, however there are other peripheral impacts as well. The pandemic is continuing to threaten the work-life balance (WLB) of employees, disrupting their domestic lives, intensifying their general stress levels, and impacting their ability to focus on their careers. This is a significant problem for both working women as well as men, however this study suggests the negative impact is more disruptive to women. Women represent approximately 46% of the human resources for organizations and they are major contributors to advancements in domains such as healthcare, education, government, and commercial development. Organizations, as a defensive measure, need to adapt policies and procedures in an attempt to moderate the disruptive influences the virus is having on their human resources. This paper explores the extant literature and defragments diverse COVID-19 studies to capture an overall picture of the unique impact the pandemic is having on working women. A qualitative study involving semi-structured in-depth interviews with 20 professional women was conducted. Interviews were reviewed holistically with themes across interviews identified. Resulting themes include WLB expectations post-COVID-19, childcare, employers and expectations, and return to work. Thematic findings are discussed and observations relative to organizational implications are provided. Also offered are thoughts and suggestions for the enhancement of WLB, thereby benefiting both women and their organizations.