Under the effects of COVID-19 and a number of ongoing lockdown tactics,anxiety symptoms and poor sleep quality have become common mental health issues among college freshmen and are intimately related to their emotion...Under the effects of COVID-19 and a number of ongoing lockdown tactics,anxiety symptoms and poor sleep quality have become common mental health issues among college freshmen and are intimately related to their emotional adaptation.To explore this connection,this study gathered data from a sample of 256 freshmen enrolled in an elite university in China in September 2022.The association between sleep quality,anxiety symptoms,and emotional adaptation was clarified using correlation analysis.Additionally,the mediating function of anxiety symptoms between sleep quality and emotional adaptation was investigated using a structural equation model.The results reveal that:(1)Chinese elite university freshmen who were subjected to prolonged lockdown had poor sleep quality and mild anxiety symptoms;(2)a significant positive correlation between poor sleep quality and anxiety symptoms was identified;(3)anxiety symptoms were found to have a significant negative impact on emotional adaptation;(4)poor sleep quality had a negative impact on emotional adaptation through anxiety symptoms.This research makes a valuable contribution by offering insights into the intricate relationship between sleep quality and emotional adaptation among freshmen in elite Chinese universities during prolonged lockdown conditions,and it is beneficial for schools and educators to further improve school schedules and psychological health initiatives.展开更多
BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)is a major and costly public health emergency.AIM To investigate the impact of China’s lockdown policies during the COVID-19 outbreak on the level I trauma center of a ter...BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)is a major and costly public health emergency.AIM To investigate the impact of China’s lockdown policies during the COVID-19 outbreak on the level I trauma center of a tertiary comprehensive hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine.METHODS All patients admitted to our trauma center during a lockdown in 2020 and the same period in 2019 were enrolled.We collected data on demographics,daily visits,injury type,injury mechanism,injury severity score,and patient management for comparative analysis.RESULTS The total number of patients in the trauma center of our hospital decreased by 50.38%during the COVID-19 Lockdown in 2020 compared to the same period in 2019.The average number of trauma visits per day in 2019 was 47.94,compared to 23.79 in 2020.Comparing the patients’demographic data,loss of employment was the most predominate characteristic in 2020 compared to 2019,while there was no significant difference in gender,age,and marital status between both periods.During the lockdown period,the proportion of traffic accident-related injuries,injuries due to falls greater than 1.5 m,and mechanical injuries decreased significantly,whereas the proportion of injuries caused by falls less than 1.5 m,cuts,assault,bites,and suicidal tendencies and other injuries increased relatively.In addition,the proportion of patients with minor injuries increased and serious injuries decreased during the lockdown.The hospitalization rate increased significantly,and there was no significant difference in emergency surgery and death rates.CONCLUSION The lockdown policies during the COVID-19 outbreak significantly altered the number and mechanism of traumatic events in our hospital,which can be monitored regularly.Our results suggest that mandatory public health prevention and control measures by the government can reduce the incidence of traumatic events and the severity of traumatic injuries.Emergency surgery and mortality rates remain high,increased because of factors such as family injury and penetrating injury,and hospitalization rates have increased significantly.Therefore,our trauma center still needs to be fully staffed.Finally,from the perspective of the injury mechanism,indoor trauma is a major risk during a lockdown,and it is particularly important to develop prevention strategies for such trauma to reduce the medical burden of the next catastrophic epidemic.展开更多
BACKGROUND Reports of a decrease in hospital admissions during the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)lockdown period have raised concerns about delayed or missed diagnoses and treatments for non-COVID-19-related illne...BACKGROUND Reports of a decrease in hospital admissions during the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)lockdown period have raised concerns about delayed or missed diagnoses and treatments for non-COVID-19-related illnesses.AIM To investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic-induced lockdown and its end on hospital admissions of patients with epistaxis in Germany.METHODS A retrospective analysis based on the national database of the Hospital Remuneration System was used to compare hospital admissions during defined time periods between 2019 and 2022 with the lockdown period as the reference period.This was done on a weekly basis before,during,and after the lockdown.An Interrupted Time Series was used as the analysis method.RESULTS In our analysis,we included 26183 patients.The implementation of the lockdown led to a substantial reduction in the overall occurrence of epistaxis among patients(P<0.05).This effect was most pronounced in the age group of 0-39 years,where the decrease was highly significant(P<0.001).However,there was no change observed in patients aged 80 years and older(not significant).With the end of the lockdown period,the overall number of patients,especially in the youngest age group,increased abruptly and significantly(P<0.01).CONCLUSION During the lockdown period,there was a decrease in hospital admissions for younger patients with epistaxis,possibly due to the fear of COVID-19 exposure.We also conclude that the severity of epistaxis was not underestimated in the elderly during the pandemic.展开更多
This paper asks whether the turbulence of the Covid-19 lockdowns has left enduring changes to everyday life in the UK which are unlikely to have happened,up to now,in the absence of the pandemic.The analysis disaggreg...This paper asks whether the turbulence of the Covid-19 lockdowns has left enduring changes to everyday life in the UK which are unlikely to have happened,up to now,in the absence of the pandemic.The analysis disaggregates the UK population by gender,and into age groups and income bands,specifies whose lives were changed during the lockdowns,and exactly how.It is argued that most changes from pre-to post-lockdowns have been spurts in longer-running trends driven by the UK demographic,housing,economic and political contexts.The exceptions,the sole genuine lockdown legacies that the analysis leaves,are the normalisation of working from home and an increase in total time spent doing paid work.展开更多
The higher concentration of PM_(10) and PM_(2.5) in the lower atmosphere is severely harmful for human health and it also makes visibility diminution along with weather and climate modifications.The main objective is ...The higher concentration of PM_(10) and PM_(2.5) in the lower atmosphere is severely harmful for human health and it also makes visibility diminution along with weather and climate modifications.The main objective is to find out the spatiotemporal variation and dispersal of PM_(10) and PM_(2.5) along with COVID-19 infection in the dusty city Kolkata.The consecutive two years PM_(10) and PM_(2.5) data of different stations have been obtained from State Pollution Control Board,Govt.of West Bengal.Forward trajectory analysis has been done through HYSPLIT(Hybrid Single Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory)model to find the path and direction of air particles.The result showed that the various meteorological or environmental factors(such as temperature,relative humidity,wind,wind speed,pressure and gusty wind)and geographical location regulate the spatiotemporal variation of PM_(10) and PM_(2.5).These factors like high temperature with relative humidity and strong wind influence to disperse the particulate matters from north to south direction from city to outside during summer in Kolkata metropolitan city.During summer(both pre and lockdown years),the height of particles is extended up to 1000 m owing to active atmospheric ventilation whereas in winter it is confined within 100 m.The HYSPLIT model clearly specified that the particles dispersed from south,south-west to north and north east direction due to strong wind.The constant magnification of PM_(10) and PM_(2.5) in the lower atmosphere leads to greater frequency of COVID-19 infections and deaths.In Kolkata,the one of the crucial reasons of high infection and deaths(COVID-19)is co-morbidity of people.展开更多
Estimating the impacts on PM_(2.5)pollution and CO_(2)emissions by human activities in different urban regions is important for developing efficient policies.In early 2020,China implemented a lockdown policy to contai...Estimating the impacts on PM_(2.5)pollution and CO_(2)emissions by human activities in different urban regions is important for developing efficient policies.In early 2020,China implemented a lockdown policy to contain the spread of COVID-19,resulting in a significant reduction of human activities.This event presents a convenient opportunity to study the impact of human activities in the transportation and industrial sectors on air pollution.Here,we investigate the variations in air quality attributed to the COVID-19 lockdown policy in the megacities of China by combining in-situ environmental and meteorological datasets,the Suomi-NPP/VIIRS and the CO_(2)emissions from the Carbon Monitor project.Our study shows that PM_(2.5)concentrations in the spring of 2020 decreased by 41.87%in the Yangtze River Delta(YRD)and 43.30%in the Pearl River Delta(PRD),respectively,owing to the significant shutdown of traffic and manufacturing industries.However,PM_(2.5)concentrations in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei(BTH)region only decreased by 2.01%because the energy and steel industries were not fully paused.In addition,unfavorable weather conditions contributed to further increases in the PM_(2.5)concentration.Furthermore,CO_(2)concentrations were not significantly affected in China during the short-term emission reduction,despite a 19.52%reduction in CO_(2)emissions compared to the same period in 2019.Our results suggest that concerted efforts from different emission sectors and effective long-term emission reduction strategies are necessary to control air pollution and CO_(2)emissions.展开更多
Food hoarding is prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic.To investigate the mechanism of urban consumers’food hoarding behaviors,we categorize hoarding motives into rational and irrational ones.Using random online sur...Food hoarding is prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic.To investigate the mechanism of urban consumers’food hoarding behaviors,we categorize hoarding motives into rational and irrational ones.Using random online survey samples from three cities in China,we employ the multivariate probit model to investigate the rational and irrational motives on food hoarding behavior.Our results confirmed the existence of both rational and irrational food hoarding,and also found factors attributing to the different buying behaviors.The amount of food at hand and the expectation on the infection possibility of COVID-19 are two major factors affecting rational hoarding.Bad mood and herd psychology are factors contributing to panic buying.This study provides an empirical evidence to support intervention policies aiming at mitigating panic buying behavior.展开更多
The influence of reduction in emissions on the inherent temporal characteristics of PMand NOconcentration time series in six urban cities of India is assessed by computing the Hurst exponent using Detrended Fluctuatio...The influence of reduction in emissions on the inherent temporal characteristics of PMand NOconcentration time series in six urban cities of India is assessed by computing the Hurst exponent using Detrended Fluctuation Analysis(DFA) during the lockdown period(March 24–April 20, 2020) and the corresponding period during the previous two years(i.e., 2018 and 2019). The analysis suggests the anticipated impact of confinement on the PMand NOconcentration in urban cities, causing low concentrations. It is observed that the original PMand NOconcentration time series is persistent but filtering the time series by fitting the autoregressive process of order 1 on the actual time series and subtracting it changes the persistence property significantly. It indicates the presence of linear correlations in the PMand NOconcentrations. Hurst exponent of the PMand NOconcentration during the lockdown period and previous two years shows that the inherent temporal characteristics of the short-term air pollutant concentrations(APCs) time series do not change even after withholding the emissions. The meteorological variations also do not change over the three time periods. The finding helps in developing the prediction models for future policy decisions to improve urban air quality across cities.展开更多
Depending on various government policies,COVID-19(Corona Virus Disease-19) lockdowns have had diverse impacts on global aerosol concentrations.In 2022,Changchun a provincial capital city in Northeast China,suffered a ...Depending on various government policies,COVID-19(Corona Virus Disease-19) lockdowns have had diverse impacts on global aerosol concentrations.In 2022,Changchun a provincial capital city in Northeast China,suffered a severe COVID-19 outbreak and implemented a very strict lockdown that lasted for nearly two months.Using ground-based polarization Light Detection and Ranging(LiDAR),we detected real-time aerosol profile parameters(EC,extinction coefficient;DR,depolarization ratio;AOD,aerosol optical depth),as well as air-quality and meteorological indexes from 1 March to 30 April in 2021 and 2022 to quantify the effects of lockdown on aerosol concentrations.The period in 2022 was divided into three stages:pre-lockdown(1-10 March),strict lockdown(11 March to 10 April),and partial lockdown(11-30 April).The results showed that,during the strict lockdown period,compared with the pre-lockdown period,there were substantial reductions in aerosol parameters(EC and AOD),and this was consistent with the concentrations of the atmospheric pollutants PM_(2.5)(particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤2.5 μm) and PM_(2.5)(particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤10 μm),and the Oconcentration increased by 8.3%.During the strict lockdown,the values of EC within0-1 km and AOD decreased by 16.0% and 11.2%,respectively,as compared to the corresponding period in 2021.Lockdown reduced the conventional and organized emissions of air pollutants,and it clearly delayed the time of seasonal emissions from agricultural burning;however,it did not decrease the number of farmland fire points.Considering meteorological factors and eliminating the influence of wind-blown dust events,the results showed that reductions from conventional organized emission sources during the strict lockdown contributed to a 30% air-quality improvement and a 22% reduction in near-surface extinction(0-2 km).Aerosols produced by urban epidemic prevention and disinfection can also be identified using the EC.Regarding seasonal sources of agricultural straw burning,the concentrated burning induced by the epidemic led to the occurrence of heavy pollution from increased amounts of atmospheric aerosols,with a contribution rate of 62%.These results indicate that there is great potential to further improve air quality in the local area,and suggest that the comprehensive use of straw accompanied by reasonable planned burning is the best way to achieve this.展开更多
Athletes find innovative ways to stay in shape during COVID-19 lockdown The year 2020 was supposed to be a very busy one for sports in China.A number of major competitions were planned to be held throughout the year.T...Athletes find innovative ways to stay in shape during COVID-19 lockdown The year 2020 was supposed to be a very busy one for sports in China.A number of major competitions were planned to be held throughout the year.The Chinese Super League football season was due to start on February 22.展开更多
We present interesting application of artificial intelligence for investigating effect of the COVID-19 lockdown on 3-dimensional temperature variation across Nigeria(2°-15°E,4°-14°N),in equatorial ...We present interesting application of artificial intelligence for investigating effect of the COVID-19 lockdown on 3-dimensional temperature variation across Nigeria(2°-15°E,4°-14°N),in equatorial Africa.Artificial neural networks were trained to learn time-series temperature variation patterns using radio occultation measurements of atmospheric temperature from the Constellation Observing System for Meteorology,Ionosphere,and Climate(COSMIC).Data used for training,validation and testing of the neural networks covered period prior to the lockdown.There was also an investigation into the viability of solar activity indicator(represented by the sunspot number)as an input for the process.The results indicated that including the sunspot number as an input for the training did not improve the network prediction accuracy.The trained network was then used to predict values for the lockdown period.Since the network was trained using pre-lockdown dataset,predictions from the network are regarded as expected temperatures,should there have been no lockdown.By comparing with the actual COSMIC measurements during the lockdown period,effects of the lockdown on atmospheric temperatures were deduced.In overall,the mean altitudinal temperatures rose by about 1.1℃ above expected values during the lockdown.An altitudinal breakdown,at 1 km resolution,reveals that the values were typically below0.5℃ at most of the altitudes,but exceeded 1℃ at 28 and 29 km altitudes.The temperatures were also observed to drop below expected values at altitudes of 0-2 km,and 17-20 km.展开更多
Context and Objective: The nutritional and sports dimension of the lockdown implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic is unexplored in the African environment. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of COV...Context and Objective: The nutritional and sports dimension of the lockdown implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic is unexplored in the African environment. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of COVID-19 lockdown on body composition and fitness performance in Congolese football players. Methods: This was an observational study carried out in Brazzaville between February 9 and October 30, 2020. It included 16 male players among Congolese senior national team and 11 male football players of first division Brazzaville clubs. Two types of measurements were carried out: anthropometric measures (height, body mass, total fat percent, lean body mass);physical capacities [30 m sprint, repeated sprint, aerobic endurance (Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery test), vertical jump (Squat Jump test, Countermovement test)]. The measurements were realized at 4 times: before lockdown (month of february, T0), 1<sup>st</sup> week of june (T1), 1<sup>st</sup> week of september (T2), 1<sup>st</sup> week of october (T3). Data were compared using Student t test, Sokal S test, Anova, Newman-Keuls test (multiple contrasts) and correlation analysis. Results: A significant increase in body mass (p Conclusion: The present data suggest that COVID-19 lockdown promotes weight gain and decreased physical ability in football players.展开更多
Aim:The aim of this study was to explore and describe the lived experience of 3rd-year nursing students who participated in an online wellness coaching program during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.Methods:This qualit...Aim:The aim of this study was to explore and describe the lived experience of 3rd-year nursing students who participated in an online wellness coaching program during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.Methods:This qualitative research study on an online wellness coaching program included 30 female students,aged 21 to 30 years,who were confined to their home during the COVID-19 outbreak for two months.The students were asked to describe their feelings and responses during the COVID-19 lockdown.Results:Four thematic clusters emerged in the data analysis:what the students felt during the quarantine period,what the wellness coaching practice added to the students’lives,what changes resulted from the application and whether the students would like the application to continue and recommend the application.The study showed that students had a high level of stress,fear and anxiety at home during the COVID-19 outbreak.With the online wellness coaching application,they experienced a decrease in social isolation,an improved ability to cope with stress,and improved positivity and well-being.Conclusion:Findings from this study demonstrate that online wellness coaching during the COVID-19 quarantine has a positive effect on students’well-being.展开更多
BACKGROUND Students in the 9grade of junior high school in Changsha were under a 75 d lockdown due to the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic.After the resumption of school post-lockdown,the 9grade students in ...BACKGROUND Students in the 9grade of junior high school in Changsha were under a 75 d lockdown due to the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic.After the resumption of school post-lockdown,the 9grade students in Changsha faced the entrance physical examination test for senior high school.CASE SUMMARY We report on 3 cases of occult fracture on the same site in adolescents of the same grade since resumption of school after the lockdown from the COVID-19pandemic.Three students in the 9th grade of junior high school who were facing the physical examination in 2 wk were diagnosed with an occult fracture of the distal femur.CONCLUSION It is recommended that the students,parents,education providers and policy makers should all pay attention to the physical exercise of students when the resumption of school after lockdown occurs and they should be aware of occult fractures when the adolescents have pain after physical exercise.展开更多
BACKGROUND This study examined the associations between social support and anxiety during the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)in an Israeli sample.AIM To examine the associations between social support and anxiety d...BACKGROUND This study examined the associations between social support and anxiety during the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)in an Israeli sample.AIM To examine the associations between social support and anxiety during the COVID-19 in an Israeli sample.METHODS Data for this cross-sectional study were retrieved from an online survey.Linear regression,logistic regression and restricted cubic spline models were conducted to test for associations between social support and anxiety.RESULTS A total of 655 individuals took part in the present study.In the univariate linear regression model,there is a negative correlation between the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 score(GAD-7)and the Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale(MSPSS)score.For MSPSS score,the multivariable adjusted regression coefficient and 95%confidence interval(CI)of GAD-7 score were-0.779(-1.063 to-0.496).In the univariate logistic regression model,there was a negative correlation between anxiety(GAD-7≥9)and MSPSS score,and there was still a negative correlation in multivariate logical regression analysis.The odds ratios and 95%CI were 0.709(0.563-0.894).CONCLUSION Social support was inversely correlated with anxiety during COVID-19 in an Israeli sample.展开更多
BACKGROUND Pandemic mitigation policies,such as lockdown,are known to impact on mental health of individuals.Compulsory face covering under relaxed lockdown restrictions gives assurance of less transmission of airborn...BACKGROUND Pandemic mitigation policies,such as lockdown,are known to impact on mental health of individuals.Compulsory face covering under relaxed lockdown restrictions gives assurance of less transmission of airborne infection and has the potential to improve mental health of individuals affected by restrictions.AIM To examine the association of the lockdown relaxation and the implementation of the face covering policy on the mental health of the general population and subgroups in the United Kingdom using interrupted time series model.METHODS Using a web-based cross-sectional survey of 28890 United Kingdom adults carried out during May 1,2020 to July 31,2020,changes in mental health status using generalised anxiety disorder(GAD-7),and impact of events scale-revised(IES-R)scales are examined,at the dates of the first lockdown relaxation(July 4,2020)and the subsequent introduction of face covering(July 24,2020)in United Kingdom.A sharp regression discontinuity design is used to check discontinuities in mental health outcomes at policy-change dates.RESULTS Average GAD-7 scores of participants were 5.6,5.6 and 4.3 during the lockdown period,the lockdown relaxation phase and the phase of compulsory face covering,respectively,with lower scores indicating lower anxiety levels.Corresponding scores for IES-R were 17.3,16.8 and 13.4,with lower scores indicating less distress.Easing lockdown measures and subsequent introduction of face covering,on average,reduced GAD-7 by 0.513(95%CI:0.913-0.112)and 1.148(95%CI:1.800-0.496),respectively.Corresponding reductions in IES-R were 2.620(95%CI:4.279-0.961)and 3.449(95%CI:5.725-1.172).These imply that both lockdown relaxation and compulsory face-covering have a positive association with mental health scores(GAD-7 and IES-R).CONCLUSION The differential impact of lockdown and relaxation on the mental health of population sub-groups is evident in this study with future implications for policy.Introduction of face covering in public places had a stronger positive association with mental health than lockdown relaxation.展开更多
This work draws attention to the effects of the second cause of lung cancer which is also the largest source of exposure to ionizing radiation, radon, during the lockdown recommended by the World Health Organization (...This work draws attention to the effects of the second cause of lung cancer which is also the largest source of exposure to ionizing radiation, radon, during the lockdown recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The basic assumption is that the exposure times have been assimilated to the 03-month lockdown time and the 02-week maximum incubation period of the disease. Doses during these periods and Relative Risk of Lung Cancer (RRLC), Lung Cancer Cases per year per million people (LCC) and Excess Lifetime Risk of Cancer (ELRC), were evaluated based on the concentrations obtained in high natural background radiation area in Cameroon. The existing exposure situation due to radon is then reevaluated and ranged from 0.76% to 17.55%. These results show that the reconsidered exposure time would be equivalent to the exposure time of a worker over one year, with their respective doses values becoming equivalent. The risks of developing lung cancer were also evaluated and it has been found that due to this pandemic it unfortunately increased.展开更多
The food insecurity experiences and related behaviors of Nigerian households during the COVID-19 lockdown have not been fully discussed. This study was conducted to elicit information on the impact of COVID-19 lockdow...The food insecurity experiences and related behaviors of Nigerian households during the COVID-19 lockdown have not been fully discussed. This study was conducted to elicit information on the impact of COVID-19 lockdown on economic and behavioral patterns related to food access. An online-based semi-structured questionnaire distributed through messaging platforms was used to collect information on characteristics, food purchasing behaviour be<span>fore and during COVID-19 lockdown among respondents. Experience of</span> food insecurity was assessed using Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES). A total of 883 responses were received and analyzed using SPSS Version 20.0. Most of the respondents (90.5%) were at home or had stopped going to work due to COVID-19 restrictions. Even though smaller households had higher food <span>expenditure claims than larger households (p = 0.012), the larger the</span> house<span>hold, the more acute the challenge of economic access to food (p = 0.050)</span>. Location (p = 0.000), age (p = 0.003), occupation (p = 0.014) and income level (p = 0.000) were associated with experience of food insecurity. In conclusion, lockdown restrictions increased food expenditure and experience of food insecurity among the respondents and thus we recommend the probe of long-term consequences of deviations from usual food access on undernutrition or overnutrition in Nigerian households.展开更多
The air quality index (AQI) of a location informs how clean or unhealthy the ambient air is. While COVID-19 pandemic on one hand threatened the health of mankind globally, on the other hand was a respite to poor air q...The air quality index (AQI) of a location informs how clean or unhealthy the ambient air is. While COVID-19 pandemic on one hand threatened the health of mankind globally, on the other hand was a respite to poor air quality of most cities. This study evaluated the positive effects of the brief COVID-19 lockdown on the air quality of Port Harcourt city, Nigeria. Air quality parameters aimed at assessing air quality index of Port Harcourt Metropolis before, during and after COVID-19 pandemic lockdown were monitored and compared. Data were analysed and AQI of sampled locations computed using the US EPA recommended standard procedure. Results from the study showed that, the ambient air quality of Port Harcourt was hazardous for breathing before lockdown. During shutdown of activities, the air quality improved to unhealthy status, with an average reduction AQI of 261.7 points. However, an average increase of 100.7 points, resulting to very unhealthy air status for residents after lockdown was observed. The unhealthy status during lockdown shows that anthropogenic activities were still on despite the Pandemic shutdown of economic activities. Also, decrease in levels of the criteria air pollutants was observed. Before lock down, the range levels of SO<sub>3</sub>, NO<sub>2</sub>, CO, O<sub>3</sub>, PM<sub>2.5</sub> and PM<sub>10</sub> were <0.1 - 1.2 ppm, <0.1 - 0.1 ppm, 8 - 28 ppm, <0.1 ppm, 20 - 140 μg/m<sup>3</sup>, 15 - 135 μg/m<sup>3</sup>, respectively. In the period of lockdown, the levels reduced considerably, especially CO and PM<sub>2.5</sub> and PM<sub>10</sub> (1 - 12 ppm, 5 - 60 μg/m<sup>3</sup>, and 10 - 50 μg/ m<sup>3</sup>). Conversely, after lockdown, there was upsurge in levels of the pollutants, especially CO and PM<sub>2.5</sub> and PM<sub>10</sub> (4 - 16 ppm, 10 - 110 μg/m<sup>3</sup>, 10 - 90 μg/m<sup>3</sup>). Authorities are expected to establish routine air quality measurements stations and communicate daily air quality to residents, for public health precaution purposes. Shutdown of industrial activities instituted by Government in curtailing the surge of COVID-19 pandemic could likely be a novel environmental model for mitigating air pollution in highly hazardous air pollution emergency domains.展开更多
This brief study explores the diverse and long-term mental impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on societies worldwide. Based on the recent existing literature, six primary categories of mental effects are identified to v...This brief study explores the diverse and long-term mental impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on societies worldwide. Based on the recent existing literature, six primary categories of mental effects are identified to verify how people are affected by reoccurring lockdowns and social isolations. The study urges holistic research in this field, suggesting that researchers must not neglect the diversity of mental health impacts and context-specific factors. While long-term mental and psychological impacts are mostly hidden for now, we anticipate them to fuel other health issues already experienced by the vulnerable groups, healthcare units, and those fighting the pandemic at the front line. The paper aims to highlight primary mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic due to reoccurring lockdowns and social isolations. This is an opinion paper reflecting on ongoing research related to mental health issues of the ongoing pandemic, some of that could be looked at through case study research or extended research and comparative studies. This brief study suggests further case study-based analysis to evaluate the impacts of lockdowns and social isolations on societal wellbeing and mental health. Globally, the ongoing pandemic has made public health unstable and is expected to continue with its long-term consequences on societies. Research studies should help make governments and policymakers more aware of such long-term consequences to ensure they can respond more effectively to foreseeing public health issues.展开更多
基金the Tianjin Philosophy and Social Science Planning Project“Research on Value-Added Evaluation of Career Adaptability for Engineering Students Oriented towards Outstanding Engineers”,Grant Number TJJXQN22-001.
文摘Under the effects of COVID-19 and a number of ongoing lockdown tactics,anxiety symptoms and poor sleep quality have become common mental health issues among college freshmen and are intimately related to their emotional adaptation.To explore this connection,this study gathered data from a sample of 256 freshmen enrolled in an elite university in China in September 2022.The association between sleep quality,anxiety symptoms,and emotional adaptation was clarified using correlation analysis.Additionally,the mediating function of anxiety symptoms between sleep quality and emotional adaptation was investigated using a structural equation model.The results reveal that:(1)Chinese elite university freshmen who were subjected to prolonged lockdown had poor sleep quality and mild anxiety symptoms;(2)a significant positive correlation between poor sleep quality and anxiety symptoms was identified;(3)anxiety symptoms were found to have a significant negative impact on emotional adaptation;(4)poor sleep quality had a negative impact on emotional adaptation through anxiety symptoms.This research makes a valuable contribution by offering insights into the intricate relationship between sleep quality and emotional adaptation among freshmen in elite Chinese universities during prolonged lockdown conditions,and it is beneficial for schools and educators to further improve school schedules and psychological health initiatives.
基金study was reviewed and approved by the Foshan Hospital of TCM Institutional Review Board,No.KY[2023]024.
文摘BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)is a major and costly public health emergency.AIM To investigate the impact of China’s lockdown policies during the COVID-19 outbreak on the level I trauma center of a tertiary comprehensive hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine.METHODS All patients admitted to our trauma center during a lockdown in 2020 and the same period in 2019 were enrolled.We collected data on demographics,daily visits,injury type,injury mechanism,injury severity score,and patient management for comparative analysis.RESULTS The total number of patients in the trauma center of our hospital decreased by 50.38%during the COVID-19 Lockdown in 2020 compared to the same period in 2019.The average number of trauma visits per day in 2019 was 47.94,compared to 23.79 in 2020.Comparing the patients’demographic data,loss of employment was the most predominate characteristic in 2020 compared to 2019,while there was no significant difference in gender,age,and marital status between both periods.During the lockdown period,the proportion of traffic accident-related injuries,injuries due to falls greater than 1.5 m,and mechanical injuries decreased significantly,whereas the proportion of injuries caused by falls less than 1.5 m,cuts,assault,bites,and suicidal tendencies and other injuries increased relatively.In addition,the proportion of patients with minor injuries increased and serious injuries decreased during the lockdown.The hospitalization rate increased significantly,and there was no significant difference in emergency surgery and death rates.CONCLUSION The lockdown policies during the COVID-19 outbreak significantly altered the number and mechanism of traumatic events in our hospital,which can be monitored regularly.Our results suggest that mandatory public health prevention and control measures by the government can reduce the incidence of traumatic events and the severity of traumatic injuries.Emergency surgery and mortality rates remain high,increased because of factors such as family injury and penetrating injury,and hospitalization rates have increased significantly.Therefore,our trauma center still needs to be fully staffed.Finally,from the perspective of the injury mechanism,indoor trauma is a major risk during a lockdown,and it is particularly important to develop prevention strategies for such trauma to reduce the medical burden of the next catastrophic epidemic.
文摘BACKGROUND Reports of a decrease in hospital admissions during the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)lockdown period have raised concerns about delayed or missed diagnoses and treatments for non-COVID-19-related illnesses.AIM To investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic-induced lockdown and its end on hospital admissions of patients with epistaxis in Germany.METHODS A retrospective analysis based on the national database of the Hospital Remuneration System was used to compare hospital admissions during defined time periods between 2019 and 2022 with the lockdown period as the reference period.This was done on a weekly basis before,during,and after the lockdown.An Interrupted Time Series was used as the analysis method.RESULTS In our analysis,we included 26183 patients.The implementation of the lockdown led to a substantial reduction in the overall occurrence of epistaxis among patients(P<0.05).This effect was most pronounced in the age group of 0-39 years,where the decrease was highly significant(P<0.001).However,there was no change observed in patients aged 80 years and older(not significant).With the end of the lockdown period,the overall number of patients,especially in the youngest age group,increased abruptly and significantly(P<0.01).CONCLUSION During the lockdown period,there was a decrease in hospital admissions for younger patients with epistaxis,possibly due to the fear of COVID-19 exposure.We also conclude that the severity of epistaxis was not underestimated in the elderly during the pandemic.
文摘This paper asks whether the turbulence of the Covid-19 lockdowns has left enduring changes to everyday life in the UK which are unlikely to have happened,up to now,in the absence of the pandemic.The analysis disaggregates the UK population by gender,and into age groups and income bands,specifies whose lives were changed during the lockdowns,and exactly how.It is argued that most changes from pre-to post-lockdowns have been spurts in longer-running trends driven by the UK demographic,housing,economic and political contexts.The exceptions,the sole genuine lockdown legacies that the analysis leaves,are the normalisation of working from home and an increase in total time spent doing paid work.
文摘The higher concentration of PM_(10) and PM_(2.5) in the lower atmosphere is severely harmful for human health and it also makes visibility diminution along with weather and climate modifications.The main objective is to find out the spatiotemporal variation and dispersal of PM_(10) and PM_(2.5) along with COVID-19 infection in the dusty city Kolkata.The consecutive two years PM_(10) and PM_(2.5) data of different stations have been obtained from State Pollution Control Board,Govt.of West Bengal.Forward trajectory analysis has been done through HYSPLIT(Hybrid Single Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory)model to find the path and direction of air particles.The result showed that the various meteorological or environmental factors(such as temperature,relative humidity,wind,wind speed,pressure and gusty wind)and geographical location regulate the spatiotemporal variation of PM_(10) and PM_(2.5).These factors like high temperature with relative humidity and strong wind influence to disperse the particulate matters from north to south direction from city to outside during summer in Kolkata metropolitan city.During summer(both pre and lockdown years),the height of particles is extended up to 1000 m owing to active atmospheric ventilation whereas in winter it is confined within 100 m.The HYSPLIT model clearly specified that the particles dispersed from south,south-west to north and north east direction due to strong wind.The constant magnification of PM_(10) and PM_(2.5) in the lower atmosphere leads to greater frequency of COVID-19 infections and deaths.In Kolkata,the one of the crucial reasons of high infection and deaths(COVID-19)is co-morbidity of people.
基金supported by the National Science Foundation of China(Grant.No.41521004)the Gansu Provincial Special Fund Project for Guiding Scientific and Technological Innovation and Development(Grant No.2019ZX-06)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universit-ies(lzujbky-2021-kb12)。
文摘Estimating the impacts on PM_(2.5)pollution and CO_(2)emissions by human activities in different urban regions is important for developing efficient policies.In early 2020,China implemented a lockdown policy to contain the spread of COVID-19,resulting in a significant reduction of human activities.This event presents a convenient opportunity to study the impact of human activities in the transportation and industrial sectors on air pollution.Here,we investigate the variations in air quality attributed to the COVID-19 lockdown policy in the megacities of China by combining in-situ environmental and meteorological datasets,the Suomi-NPP/VIIRS and the CO_(2)emissions from the Carbon Monitor project.Our study shows that PM_(2.5)concentrations in the spring of 2020 decreased by 41.87%in the Yangtze River Delta(YRD)and 43.30%in the Pearl River Delta(PRD),respectively,owing to the significant shutdown of traffic and manufacturing industries.However,PM_(2.5)concentrations in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei(BTH)region only decreased by 2.01%because the energy and steel industries were not fully paused.In addition,unfavorable weather conditions contributed to further increases in the PM_(2.5)concentration.Furthermore,CO_(2)concentrations were not significantly affected in China during the short-term emission reduction,despite a 19.52%reduction in CO_(2)emissions compared to the same period in 2019.Our results suggest that concerted efforts from different emission sectors and effective long-term emission reduction strategies are necessary to control air pollution and CO_(2)emissions.
基金The authors thank the National Natural Science Foundation of China(72003008)the Social Science Funding from Beijing Municipal Education Commission,China(SM201810011002)2017 Beijing High Level Group Building Program,China(IDHT20170505).
文摘Food hoarding is prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic.To investigate the mechanism of urban consumers’food hoarding behaviors,we categorize hoarding motives into rational and irrational ones.Using random online survey samples from three cities in China,we employ the multivariate probit model to investigate the rational and irrational motives on food hoarding behavior.Our results confirmed the existence of both rational and irrational food hoarding,and also found factors attributing to the different buying behaviors.The amount of food at hand and the expectation on the infection possibility of COVID-19 are two major factors affecting rational hoarding.Bad mood and herd psychology are factors contributing to panic buying.This study provides an empirical evidence to support intervention policies aiming at mitigating panic buying behavior.
文摘The influence of reduction in emissions on the inherent temporal characteristics of PMand NOconcentration time series in six urban cities of India is assessed by computing the Hurst exponent using Detrended Fluctuation Analysis(DFA) during the lockdown period(March 24–April 20, 2020) and the corresponding period during the previous two years(i.e., 2018 and 2019). The analysis suggests the anticipated impact of confinement on the PMand NOconcentration in urban cities, causing low concentrations. It is observed that the original PMand NOconcentration time series is persistent but filtering the time series by fitting the autoregressive process of order 1 on the actual time series and subtracting it changes the persistence property significantly. It indicates the presence of linear correlations in the PMand NOconcentrations. Hurst exponent of the PMand NOconcentration during the lockdown period and previous two years shows that the inherent temporal characteristics of the short-term air pollutant concentrations(APCs) time series do not change even after withholding the emissions. The meteorological variations also do not change over the three time periods. The finding helps in developing the prediction models for future policy decisions to improve urban air quality across cities.
基金the Key Research Program of Frontier Sciences,Chinese Academy of Sciences (No. QYZDB-SSW-DQC045)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 41775116)。
文摘Depending on various government policies,COVID-19(Corona Virus Disease-19) lockdowns have had diverse impacts on global aerosol concentrations.In 2022,Changchun a provincial capital city in Northeast China,suffered a severe COVID-19 outbreak and implemented a very strict lockdown that lasted for nearly two months.Using ground-based polarization Light Detection and Ranging(LiDAR),we detected real-time aerosol profile parameters(EC,extinction coefficient;DR,depolarization ratio;AOD,aerosol optical depth),as well as air-quality and meteorological indexes from 1 March to 30 April in 2021 and 2022 to quantify the effects of lockdown on aerosol concentrations.The period in 2022 was divided into three stages:pre-lockdown(1-10 March),strict lockdown(11 March to 10 April),and partial lockdown(11-30 April).The results showed that,during the strict lockdown period,compared with the pre-lockdown period,there were substantial reductions in aerosol parameters(EC and AOD),and this was consistent with the concentrations of the atmospheric pollutants PM_(2.5)(particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤2.5 μm) and PM_(2.5)(particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤10 μm),and the Oconcentration increased by 8.3%.During the strict lockdown,the values of EC within0-1 km and AOD decreased by 16.0% and 11.2%,respectively,as compared to the corresponding period in 2021.Lockdown reduced the conventional and organized emissions of air pollutants,and it clearly delayed the time of seasonal emissions from agricultural burning;however,it did not decrease the number of farmland fire points.Considering meteorological factors and eliminating the influence of wind-blown dust events,the results showed that reductions from conventional organized emission sources during the strict lockdown contributed to a 30% air-quality improvement and a 22% reduction in near-surface extinction(0-2 km).Aerosols produced by urban epidemic prevention and disinfection can also be identified using the EC.Regarding seasonal sources of agricultural straw burning,the concentrated burning induced by the epidemic led to the occurrence of heavy pollution from increased amounts of atmospheric aerosols,with a contribution rate of 62%.These results indicate that there is great potential to further improve air quality in the local area,and suggest that the comprehensive use of straw accompanied by reasonable planned burning is the best way to achieve this.
文摘Athletes find innovative ways to stay in shape during COVID-19 lockdown The year 2020 was supposed to be a very busy one for sports in China.A number of major competitions were planned to be held throughout the year.The Chinese Super League football season was due to start on February 22.
文摘We present interesting application of artificial intelligence for investigating effect of the COVID-19 lockdown on 3-dimensional temperature variation across Nigeria(2°-15°E,4°-14°N),in equatorial Africa.Artificial neural networks were trained to learn time-series temperature variation patterns using radio occultation measurements of atmospheric temperature from the Constellation Observing System for Meteorology,Ionosphere,and Climate(COSMIC).Data used for training,validation and testing of the neural networks covered period prior to the lockdown.There was also an investigation into the viability of solar activity indicator(represented by the sunspot number)as an input for the process.The results indicated that including the sunspot number as an input for the training did not improve the network prediction accuracy.The trained network was then used to predict values for the lockdown period.Since the network was trained using pre-lockdown dataset,predictions from the network are regarded as expected temperatures,should there have been no lockdown.By comparing with the actual COSMIC measurements during the lockdown period,effects of the lockdown on atmospheric temperatures were deduced.In overall,the mean altitudinal temperatures rose by about 1.1℃ above expected values during the lockdown.An altitudinal breakdown,at 1 km resolution,reveals that the values were typically below0.5℃ at most of the altitudes,but exceeded 1℃ at 28 and 29 km altitudes.The temperatures were also observed to drop below expected values at altitudes of 0-2 km,and 17-20 km.
文摘Context and Objective: The nutritional and sports dimension of the lockdown implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic is unexplored in the African environment. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of COVID-19 lockdown on body composition and fitness performance in Congolese football players. Methods: This was an observational study carried out in Brazzaville between February 9 and October 30, 2020. It included 16 male players among Congolese senior national team and 11 male football players of first division Brazzaville clubs. Two types of measurements were carried out: anthropometric measures (height, body mass, total fat percent, lean body mass);physical capacities [30 m sprint, repeated sprint, aerobic endurance (Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery test), vertical jump (Squat Jump test, Countermovement test)]. The measurements were realized at 4 times: before lockdown (month of february, T0), 1<sup>st</sup> week of june (T1), 1<sup>st</sup> week of september (T2), 1<sup>st</sup> week of october (T3). Data were compared using Student t test, Sokal S test, Anova, Newman-Keuls test (multiple contrasts) and correlation analysis. Results: A significant increase in body mass (p Conclusion: The present data suggest that COVID-19 lockdown promotes weight gain and decreased physical ability in football players.
文摘Aim:The aim of this study was to explore and describe the lived experience of 3rd-year nursing students who participated in an online wellness coaching program during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.Methods:This qualitative research study on an online wellness coaching program included 30 female students,aged 21 to 30 years,who were confined to their home during the COVID-19 outbreak for two months.The students were asked to describe their feelings and responses during the COVID-19 lockdown.Results:Four thematic clusters emerged in the data analysis:what the students felt during the quarantine period,what the wellness coaching practice added to the students’lives,what changes resulted from the application and whether the students would like the application to continue and recommend the application.The study showed that students had a high level of stress,fear and anxiety at home during the COVID-19 outbreak.With the online wellness coaching application,they experienced a decrease in social isolation,an improved ability to cope with stress,and improved positivity and well-being.Conclusion:Findings from this study demonstrate that online wellness coaching during the COVID-19 quarantine has a positive effect on students’well-being.
基金Supported by Doctor Science Foundation of Hunan Provincial Peoples’Hospital,No.BSJJ201815。
文摘BACKGROUND Students in the 9grade of junior high school in Changsha were under a 75 d lockdown due to the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic.After the resumption of school post-lockdown,the 9grade students in Changsha faced the entrance physical examination test for senior high school.CASE SUMMARY We report on 3 cases of occult fracture on the same site in adolescents of the same grade since resumption of school after the lockdown from the COVID-19pandemic.Three students in the 9th grade of junior high school who were facing the physical examination in 2 wk were diagnosed with an occult fracture of the distal femur.CONCLUSION It is recommended that the students,parents,education providers and policy makers should all pay attention to the physical exercise of students when the resumption of school after lockdown occurs and they should be aware of occult fractures when the adolescents have pain after physical exercise.
文摘BACKGROUND This study examined the associations between social support and anxiety during the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)in an Israeli sample.AIM To examine the associations between social support and anxiety during the COVID-19 in an Israeli sample.METHODS Data for this cross-sectional study were retrieved from an online survey.Linear regression,logistic regression and restricted cubic spline models were conducted to test for associations between social support and anxiety.RESULTS A total of 655 individuals took part in the present study.In the univariate linear regression model,there is a negative correlation between the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 score(GAD-7)and the Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale(MSPSS)score.For MSPSS score,the multivariable adjusted regression coefficient and 95%confidence interval(CI)of GAD-7 score were-0.779(-1.063 to-0.496).In the univariate logistic regression model,there was a negative correlation between anxiety(GAD-7≥9)and MSPSS score,and there was still a negative correlation in multivariate logical regression analysis.The odds ratios and 95%CI were 0.709(0.563-0.894).CONCLUSION Social support was inversely correlated with anxiety during COVID-19 in an Israeli sample.
文摘BACKGROUND Pandemic mitigation policies,such as lockdown,are known to impact on mental health of individuals.Compulsory face covering under relaxed lockdown restrictions gives assurance of less transmission of airborne infection and has the potential to improve mental health of individuals affected by restrictions.AIM To examine the association of the lockdown relaxation and the implementation of the face covering policy on the mental health of the general population and subgroups in the United Kingdom using interrupted time series model.METHODS Using a web-based cross-sectional survey of 28890 United Kingdom adults carried out during May 1,2020 to July 31,2020,changes in mental health status using generalised anxiety disorder(GAD-7),and impact of events scale-revised(IES-R)scales are examined,at the dates of the first lockdown relaxation(July 4,2020)and the subsequent introduction of face covering(July 24,2020)in United Kingdom.A sharp regression discontinuity design is used to check discontinuities in mental health outcomes at policy-change dates.RESULTS Average GAD-7 scores of participants were 5.6,5.6 and 4.3 during the lockdown period,the lockdown relaxation phase and the phase of compulsory face covering,respectively,with lower scores indicating lower anxiety levels.Corresponding scores for IES-R were 17.3,16.8 and 13.4,with lower scores indicating less distress.Easing lockdown measures and subsequent introduction of face covering,on average,reduced GAD-7 by 0.513(95%CI:0.913-0.112)and 1.148(95%CI:1.800-0.496),respectively.Corresponding reductions in IES-R were 2.620(95%CI:4.279-0.961)and 3.449(95%CI:5.725-1.172).These imply that both lockdown relaxation and compulsory face-covering have a positive association with mental health scores(GAD-7 and IES-R).CONCLUSION The differential impact of lockdown and relaxation on the mental health of population sub-groups is evident in this study with future implications for policy.Introduction of face covering in public places had a stronger positive association with mental health than lockdown relaxation.
文摘This work draws attention to the effects of the second cause of lung cancer which is also the largest source of exposure to ionizing radiation, radon, during the lockdown recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The basic assumption is that the exposure times have been assimilated to the 03-month lockdown time and the 02-week maximum incubation period of the disease. Doses during these periods and Relative Risk of Lung Cancer (RRLC), Lung Cancer Cases per year per million people (LCC) and Excess Lifetime Risk of Cancer (ELRC), were evaluated based on the concentrations obtained in high natural background radiation area in Cameroon. The existing exposure situation due to radon is then reevaluated and ranged from 0.76% to 17.55%. These results show that the reconsidered exposure time would be equivalent to the exposure time of a worker over one year, with their respective doses values becoming equivalent. The risks of developing lung cancer were also evaluated and it has been found that due to this pandemic it unfortunately increased.
文摘The food insecurity experiences and related behaviors of Nigerian households during the COVID-19 lockdown have not been fully discussed. This study was conducted to elicit information on the impact of COVID-19 lockdown on economic and behavioral patterns related to food access. An online-based semi-structured questionnaire distributed through messaging platforms was used to collect information on characteristics, food purchasing behaviour be<span>fore and during COVID-19 lockdown among respondents. Experience of</span> food insecurity was assessed using Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES). A total of 883 responses were received and analyzed using SPSS Version 20.0. Most of the respondents (90.5%) were at home or had stopped going to work due to COVID-19 restrictions. Even though smaller households had higher food <span>expenditure claims than larger households (p = 0.012), the larger the</span> house<span>hold, the more acute the challenge of economic access to food (p = 0.050)</span>. Location (p = 0.000), age (p = 0.003), occupation (p = 0.014) and income level (p = 0.000) were associated with experience of food insecurity. In conclusion, lockdown restrictions increased food expenditure and experience of food insecurity among the respondents and thus we recommend the probe of long-term consequences of deviations from usual food access on undernutrition or overnutrition in Nigerian households.
文摘The air quality index (AQI) of a location informs how clean or unhealthy the ambient air is. While COVID-19 pandemic on one hand threatened the health of mankind globally, on the other hand was a respite to poor air quality of most cities. This study evaluated the positive effects of the brief COVID-19 lockdown on the air quality of Port Harcourt city, Nigeria. Air quality parameters aimed at assessing air quality index of Port Harcourt Metropolis before, during and after COVID-19 pandemic lockdown were monitored and compared. Data were analysed and AQI of sampled locations computed using the US EPA recommended standard procedure. Results from the study showed that, the ambient air quality of Port Harcourt was hazardous for breathing before lockdown. During shutdown of activities, the air quality improved to unhealthy status, with an average reduction AQI of 261.7 points. However, an average increase of 100.7 points, resulting to very unhealthy air status for residents after lockdown was observed. The unhealthy status during lockdown shows that anthropogenic activities were still on despite the Pandemic shutdown of economic activities. Also, decrease in levels of the criteria air pollutants was observed. Before lock down, the range levels of SO<sub>3</sub>, NO<sub>2</sub>, CO, O<sub>3</sub>, PM<sub>2.5</sub> and PM<sub>10</sub> were <0.1 - 1.2 ppm, <0.1 - 0.1 ppm, 8 - 28 ppm, <0.1 ppm, 20 - 140 μg/m<sup>3</sup>, 15 - 135 μg/m<sup>3</sup>, respectively. In the period of lockdown, the levels reduced considerably, especially CO and PM<sub>2.5</sub> and PM<sub>10</sub> (1 - 12 ppm, 5 - 60 μg/m<sup>3</sup>, and 10 - 50 μg/ m<sup>3</sup>). Conversely, after lockdown, there was upsurge in levels of the pollutants, especially CO and PM<sub>2.5</sub> and PM<sub>10</sub> (4 - 16 ppm, 10 - 110 μg/m<sup>3</sup>, 10 - 90 μg/m<sup>3</sup>). Authorities are expected to establish routine air quality measurements stations and communicate daily air quality to residents, for public health precaution purposes. Shutdown of industrial activities instituted by Government in curtailing the surge of COVID-19 pandemic could likely be a novel environmental model for mitigating air pollution in highly hazardous air pollution emergency domains.
文摘This brief study explores the diverse and long-term mental impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on societies worldwide. Based on the recent existing literature, six primary categories of mental effects are identified to verify how people are affected by reoccurring lockdowns and social isolations. The study urges holistic research in this field, suggesting that researchers must not neglect the diversity of mental health impacts and context-specific factors. While long-term mental and psychological impacts are mostly hidden for now, we anticipate them to fuel other health issues already experienced by the vulnerable groups, healthcare units, and those fighting the pandemic at the front line. The paper aims to highlight primary mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic due to reoccurring lockdowns and social isolations. This is an opinion paper reflecting on ongoing research related to mental health issues of the ongoing pandemic, some of that could be looked at through case study research or extended research and comparative studies. This brief study suggests further case study-based analysis to evaluate the impacts of lockdowns and social isolations on societal wellbeing and mental health. Globally, the ongoing pandemic has made public health unstable and is expected to continue with its long-term consequences on societies. Research studies should help make governments and policymakers more aware of such long-term consequences to ensure they can respond more effectively to foreseeing public health issues.