scholarly journals A comparative study of autistic and non-autistic women’s experience of motherhood

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
A. L. Pohl ◽  
S. K. Crockford ◽  
M. Blakemore ◽  
C. Allison ◽  
S. Baron-Cohen
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Post Partum ◽  
Community Based Participatory Research ◽  
Final Analysis ◽  
Selective Mutism ◽  
Perinatal Period ◽  
Advisory Panel ◽  
Best Interest ◽  
Social Opportunities ◽  
Chi Squared

Abstract Background Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference and disability, yet there is limited research examining parenting in autistic mothers. Objective To explore autistic mothers’ experience of the perinatal period and parenthood. This includes pregnancy, childbirth, the postpartum period, self-perception of parenting strengths and weaknesses, communication with professionals in relation to one’s child, mental health difficulties and the social experience of motherhood. It also includes disclosing one’s diagnosis of autism in parenting contexts. Methods We used a community-based participatory research model, and recruited an advisory panel, with whom we co-developed an anonymous, online survey for autistic mothers. The online survey was completed by autistic and non-autistic mothers, and we compared their responses using Chi-squared analysis. Sample Autistic mothers (n = 355), and non-autistic mothers (n = 132), each of whom had at least one autistic child, were included in our final analysis. Results There were differences in education, gender identity and age of mother at birth of first child. Autistic mothers were more likely to have experienced additional psychiatric conditions, including pre- or post-partum depression, and reported greater difficulties in areas such as multi-tasking, coping with domestic responsibilities and creating social opportunities for their child. They were also more likely to report feeling misunderstood by professionals, and reported greater anxiety, higher rates of selective mutism, and not knowing which details were appropriate to share with professionals. They were also more likely to find motherhood an isolating experience, to worry about others judging their parenting, or feel unable to turn to others for support in parenting. However, despite these challenges, autistic mothers were able to act in the best interest of their child, putting their child’s needs first. Conclusions Autistic mothers face unique challenges and the stigma associated with autism may further exacerbate communication difficulties. Greater understanding and acceptance amongst individuals who interact with autistic mothers is needed, and autistic mothers would benefit from additional and better-tailored support.

scholarly journals 764 Human Factors in Operative Theatres During the Covid-19 Pandemic: A Cross-sectional Analysis of Operating Theatre Staff Experiences in a Regional Centre

2021 ◽  
Vol 108 (Supplement_2) ◽  
Author(s):  
L E Murchison ◽  
R Anbarasan ◽  
A Mathur ◽  
M Kulkarni
Keyword(s):  
Human Factors ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Situational Awareness ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
High Stress ◽  
Operating Theatre ◽  
Free Text ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Chi Squared ◽  
Theatre Staff

Abstract Introduction In the already high-risk, high-stress environment of the operating theatre, operating during Covid-19 has brought its own unique challenges. Communication, teamwork and anxiety related new operating practices secondary to Covid-19 are hypothesised to have a negative impact on patient care. Method We conducted a single-centre online survey of operating theatre staff from 22nd June–6th July 2020. Respondents completed 18 human factors questions related to COVID-19 precautions including communication, teamwork, situational awareness, decision making, stress, fatigue, work environment and organisational culture. Questions consisted of yes/no responses, multiple choice and Likert items. Kruskall-Wallis tests, Chi-Squared, Mann Whitney U tests, Spearman’s correlation coefficient, lambda and Cramer’s V tests were used. Free-text responses were also reviewed. Results 116 theatre staff responded. Visual (90.5%), hearing/ understanding (96.6%) difficulties, feeling faint/lightheaded (66.4%) and stress (47.8%) were reported. Decreased situational awareness was reported by 71.5% and correlated with visors (r = 0.27 and p = 0.03) and FFP2/3 mask usage (r = 0.29 and p = 0.01). Reduced efficiency of theatre teams was reported by 75% of respondents and 21.5% felt patient safety was at greater risk due to Covid-19 precautions in theatre. Conclusions Organisational adjustments are required, and research focused on development of fit-for-purpose personal protective equipment (PPE).

scholarly journals A Students’ Preferences-Based Approach to Select Methods for Detecting and Handling Free-Riding

2021 ◽  
pp. 027347532199210
Author(s):  
Else-Marie van den Herik ◽  
Tim M. Benning
Keyword(s):  
International Students ◽  
Evaluation System ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Free Riding ◽  
Detection Methods ◽  
Chi Squared ◽  
Ranking Task ◽  
Handling Methods ◽  
Selection Of ◽  
Marketing Educators

Free-riding is a serious challenge in group projects. While there are various methods to reduce free-riding, marketing educators still face a difficult task when selecting an appropriate method for their course. In this study, we propose a students’ preferences-based approach that supports marketing educators with the selection of methods to detect and handle free-riding. To measure these preferences, students completed an online survey based on a choice task about two methods to detect free-riding and a ranking task about four methods to handle free-riding ( n = 254). Their answers were analyzed using chi-squared tests, Borda scores, and rank-ordered logit models. The results show that (a) neither Dutch nor international students have a clear preference for one of the two detection methods (the reporting system vs. the process evaluation system), (b) grade discussion (a possible reduction of the free-rider’s grade based on a conversation with the course coordinator about each student’s contribution) is the most preferred method to handle free-riding, and (c) international students have a stronger preference for stricter handling methods. Marketing educators can apply the proposed approach, or use our specific findings, for designing methods to reduce free-riding in their courses.

scholarly journals Physicians’ Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Generic Substitution in China: A Cross-Sectional Online Survey

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (15) ◽  
pp. 7749
Author(s):  
Mingyue Zhao ◽  
Lingyi Zhang ◽  
Zhitong Feng ◽  
Yu Fang
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Generic Substitution ◽  
Generic Drugs ◽  
Final Analysis ◽  
Generic Medicine ◽  
Generic Medicines ◽  
Online Questionnaire ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Ordered Logistic Regression ◽  
Tertiary Hospitals

The purpose of this study is to investigate physicians’ knowledge, attitudes and practice of generic medicine substitutions in China. We conducted a cross-sectional online questionnaire survey on physicians from secondary or tertiary hospitals in China from 2020 December to 2021 April. Descriptive statistical and ordered logistic regression were used for analysis. A total of 1225 physicians were included in the final analysis, and only 330 (26.94%) of them scored 4 or above in the knowledge part, which means that the physicians have a good knowledge of generic substitutions. Of the total, 586 (47.83%) agreed or strongly agreed that generic drugs could be substituted for originator drugs and 585 (47.75%) always or often prescribed generic medicines. The percentage of physicians with a positive attitude toward or that practice prescribing generic medicine is below 50%, which needs to be improved in China. Physicians’ knowledge, their attitude toward generic substitution, if familiar with the policy of generic substitution, and incentives for prescribing generic medicines are influencing factors for the practice of generic substitution. Our studies show that the practice of generic substitution by physicians could be improved by several measures in China. We suggested that the physicians should be taught more about the bulk-buy policy and the generic-originator equivalence evaluation policy. Moreover, government incentives to promote generic substitution should be established. Our study also suggested that physicians with less working experience and female physicians should learn more about generic substitution.

scholarly journals Tradition, taste and taboo: the gastroecology of maternal perinatal diet

2021 ◽  
pp. bmjnph-2021-000252
Author(s):  
Hannah G Lunkenheimer ◽  
Oskar Burger ◽  
Santosh Akhauri ◽  
Indrajit Chaudhuri ◽  
Lisa Dibbell ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Community Health ◽  
Community Health Workers ◽  
Food Choice ◽  
Health Workers ◽  
Post Partum ◽  
Perinatal Period ◽  
Mortality Rates ◽  
Food Group ◽  
Maternal Malnutrition ◽  
Health Promoting

BackgroundMaternal malnutrition is a major source of regional health inequity and contributes to maternal and infant morbidity and mortality. Bihar, a state in eastern India adjacent to Jharkhand and West Bengal, has relatively high neonatal mortality rates because a large portion of infants are born to young mothers. Bihar has the second-highest proportion of underweight children under 3 in India, with infant mortality rates of 48 per 1000 live births. Maternal malnutrition remains a major threat to perinatal health in Bihar, where 58.3% of pregnant women are anaemic.MethodsWe examined dietary beliefs and practices among mothers, mothers-in-law and community members, including Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), using focus group discussions (n=40 groups, 213 participants), key informant interviews (n=50 participants) and quantitative surveys (n=1200 recent mothers and 400 community health workers). We report foods that are added/avoided during the perinatal period, along with stated reasons underlying food choice. We summarise the content of the diet based on responses to the quantitative survey and identify influencers of food choice and stated explanations for adding and avoiding foods.Key findingsAnalyses for all methodologies included gathering frequency counts and running descriptive statistics by food item, recommendation to eat or avoid, pregnancy or post partum, food group and health promoting or risk avoiding. During pregnancy, commonly added foods were generally nutritious (milk, pulses) with explanations for consuming these foods related to promoting health. Commonly avoided foods during pregnancy were also nutritious (wood apples, eggplant) with explanations for avoiding these foods related to miscarriage, newborn appearance and issues with digestion. Post partum, commonly added foods included sweets because they ease digestion whereas commonly avoided foods included eggplants and oily or spicy foods. Family, friends, relatives or neighbours influenced food choice for both mothers and ASHAs more than ASHAs and other health workers.Perinatal dietary beliefs and behaviours are shaped by local gastroecologies or systems of knowledge and practice that surround and inform dietary choices, as well as how those choices are explained and influenced. Our data provide novel insight into how health influencers operating within traditional and biomedical health systems shape the perinatal dietary beliefs of both mothers and community health workers.

scholarly journals Online Social Environment Impacts Feelings of Social Connection in Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 954-955
Author(s):  
Brittany Derynda ◽  
Mary Goodyear ◽  
Jade Kushner ◽  
Nicole Cook
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
South Florida ◽  
Social Connection ◽  
Start Time ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Nova Southeastern University ◽  
Social Opportunities ◽  
Specific Feedback ◽  
Lifelong Learning Institute

Abstract Evidence suggests that nearly one-third of older adults experience loneliness and/or social isolation; an increase in these rates during the current pandemic is anticipated. The Lifelong Learning Institute (LLI) at Nova Southeastern University (NSU) in South Florida has worked to engage seniors in fun learning activities and social opportunities since 1977. When “stay at home” orders went into effect in March, 2020 the LLI moved to online program delivery via Zoom. To understand the implementation of zoom among LLI members, NSU students, researchers and LLI member advisory committee developed a cross-sectional research study using an online survey that was administered to LLI members three months post-zoom implementation in May, 2020. Results among the 127 responders demonstrated that a majority of members were not comfortable using zoom (57%) especially the chat, reactions or camera features. More than 80% of responders did report that zoom helped them keep their spirits up. Respondents had specific feedback to improve Zoom programming including Youtube videos on use, retraining, training on features (e.g. chat, camera, reaction), closed captioning, program reminders and links sent out more frequently and within 30 minutes of start time. There were also several comments about internet connectivity, identifying opportunities for router and internet plan education. Finally, respondents noted new opportunities to enhance virtual programming including engaging speakers from across the nation and world. In summary, direct feedback from seniors on how to improve the online social and learning environment is pivotal to improving experience, programming and social connection during COVID-19.

scholarly journals Determinants of Nutrition Facts Table Use by Chinese Consumers for Nutritional Value Comparisons

2022 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
pp. 673
Author(s):  
Zeying Huang ◽  
Haijun Li ◽  
Jiazhang Huang
Keyword(s):  
Nutritional Value ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Nutrition Labeling ◽  
Chinese Consumers ◽  
Nutritional Values ◽  
Factors Associated ◽  
Interaction Detection ◽  
Chi Squared ◽  
Nationally Representative ◽  
Adoption Level

The nutrition facts table is a nutrition labeling tool designed to inform consumers of food nutritional contents and enable them to make healthier choices by comparing the nutritional values of similar foods. However, its adoption level is considerably low in China. This study employed the Chi-squared Automatic Interaction Detection (CHAID) algorithm to explore the factors associated with respondents’ adoption of nutrition facts table to compare the nutritional values of similar foods. Data were gathered through a nationally representative online survey of 1500 samples. Results suggested that consumers’ comprehension of the nutrition facts table was a direct explanatory factor for its use. The usage was also indirectly explained by people’s nutrition knowledge, the usage of nutrition facts table by their relatives and friends, and their focus on a healthy diet. Therefore, to increase the use of nutrition facts table by Chinese consumers, the first consideration should be given to enhancing consumers’ comprehension of the labeling

scholarly journals Supporting perinatal anxiety in the digital age; A qualitative exploration of stressors and support strategies.

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Virginia Harrison ◽  
Donna Moore ◽  
Lisa Lazard
Keyword(s):  
Focus Groups ◽  
Help Seeking ◽  
Post Partum ◽  
Primary Source ◽  
Perinatal Period ◽  
Online Support ◽  
Perinatal Anxiety ◽  
Women's Experience ◽  
Realistic Information ◽  
Insight Into

Abstract Background: The period surrounding childbirth is one of profound change, which can often be experienced as stressful and overwhelming. Indeed, around 20% of women may experience significant levels of anxiety in the perinatal period. However, most women experiencing perinatal anxiety (PNA) go unrecognised and untreated. The Internet offers a potentially scalable solution to improve access to support, however a dearth of research is area means that work is needed to better understand women’s experience of PNA, so that potential targets for intervention can be identified, and possible barriers to support overcome. This study aimed to qualitatively explore women’s experience of anxiety triggers and support in the perinatal period; and gain insight into what online support is acceptable for women with PNA. Methods: Women who were either pregnant or within one year post-partum were invited to participate in focus groups across the UK. Focus groups were used to allow a diversity of perspectives to be heard, while simultaneously promoting the identification and prioritisation of important support needs and solutions. Interviews were transcribed and thematically analysed. Results: Five key themes emerged in relation to women’s experience with PNA: holding unrealistic expectations of birth and motherhood; stigma; the importance of peer support; uncertainty and poor maternal confidence; and a lack of mental health support and knowledge. Perinatal women felt under-supported and poorly prepared for motherhood. A mismatch between their expectations and the reality of their experience, alongside a pressure to be the ‘perfect mum’ was the primary source of their anxiety. Furthermore, stigma associated with PNA may have exacerbated these issues and led to help-seeking avoidance. Overall, women felt these issues could be addressed via online support, through the delivery of more realistic information, providing psychoeducation about PNA symptoms and management, and the inclusion of authentic peer experiences. Thus, delivering evidence-based information and interventions online may provide a solution that is acceptable to this cohort. Conclusions: This work provides unique insight into potential sources of anxiety for women in the PNA, while also offering potential internet-based support solutions that are likely to be acceptable and helpful for women with PNA.

scholarly journals SP2.2.18UK Surgical Training in the Independent Sector During COVID-19 – A Snapshot Survey

2021 ◽  
Vol 108 (Supplement_7) ◽  
Author(s):  
Valdone Kolaityte ◽  
Charlotte El-Sayed ◽  
Josh Burke
Keyword(s):  
Surgical Training ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Elective Surgery ◽  
Final Analysis ◽  
Training Programme ◽  
Barriers To Access ◽  
Resource Requirements ◽  
Operating List ◽  
Independent Sector ◽  
Training Opportunities

Abstract Aims In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the cancellation of elective surgery, the Independent sector (IS) has been utilised to provide COVID-light sites. On average operative log book numbers have been reduced by 50% due to a reduction in operative exposure. The Four Educational Bodies continue to support training within the independent sector. This study aimed to qualitatively assess access and barriers to UK surgical training in the Independent Sector. Methods A snap-shot online survey was distributed to ASIT members of all training specialities and grades between 21/10/2020-11/11/2020 . Data measures included participant demographics, frequency of access, participation in training opportunities including outpatient clinic, theatre lists and endoscopy and any barriers encountered. A mixture of Likert scale and short answer questions were utilised. Results 249 complete responses representing all grades and specialities were included in the final analysis (34.29% CST and 56.3% HST). 35.7% of trainees reported access to the IS. 22.9% had access to at least one operating list whilst 70.3% had none. Access to outpatient clinics and endoscopy was negligible. 75% of trainees ‘strongly agreed’ that when access was achievable, it was beneficial to their training. Multiple barriers were identified including Human Resource requirements and local service provision. Conclusions Within the sample, access to the IS has been poor. There is wide variation in barriers to access across the 4 nations and IS providers. Trainees and Trainers should maximise training opportunities in the IS. Where barriers exist, they should be reported to local Training Programme Directors.

Part 2: exploring views from fathers and perinatal practitioners on the inclusion of fathers by perinatal services

2021 ◽  
Vol 29 (5) ◽  
pp. 267-277
Author(s):  
SK Fenton ◽  
T Joscelyne ◽  
S Higgins
Keyword(s):  
Professional Practice ◽  
Delphi Method ◽  
Father Involvement ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Family System ◽  
Perinatal Period ◽  
Group Consensus ◽  
Psychological Change ◽  
Paternal Support ◽  
Perinatal Services

Background This is the second of a two-part series exploring father's inclusion in the perinatal years. The first paper was published in volume 29, issue 4 of the British Journal of Midwifery. This paper explores the results of the study and discussion in relation to previous literature and to professional practice. Positive father involvement during the perinatal period has important implications for families. However, previous research suggests that fathers experience marginalisation, while staff report a lack of training and time for engaging fathers. Aims This study explored fathers' and perinatal professionals' experiences of fathers' involvement during the perinatal period, and ideas for paternal support. Method A Delphi method was employed. Thematic analysis from focus groups informed an online survey which was completed by 24 fathers and 22 professionals. A third-round survey finalised group consensus. Results Both groups agreed on the importance of fathers. Participants suggested improvement ideas, such as supporting fathers with psychological change. Groups disagreed on some ideas, such as fathers receiving a session alone to discuss concerns. Discussion The findings support the inclusion of fathers in perinatal services and a focus on the whole family system. Limitations of this study include low participant diversity and possible selection bias. Implications for further research are discussed.

COVID-19 complications and entrepreneurial intention among the entrepreneurs of Pakistan: evidence from the second wave of the pandemic

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Bahadur Ali Soomro
Keyword(s):  
Structural Equation ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Final Analysis ◽  
Entrepreneurial Intention ◽  
Equation Model ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Negative Effect ◽  
The Government ◽  
Second Wave

Purpose At present, nearly the whole globe is facing a severe threat of COVID-19. This study aims to examine the COVID-19 complications and entrepreneurial intention among the entrepreneurs of Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach The study used a deductive approach. An online survey is conducted to collect cross-sectional data from entrepreneurs of Pakistan. Convenience sampling is applied to target the respondents. In total, 278 usable answers proceed for final analysis. The structural equation model (SEM) is used to infer the results. Findings The findings of the study highlight a significant negative effect of fear of COVID-19 (FO19), perceived susceptibility (PSU) and perceived severity (PSE) on entrepreneurial intention (EI) among the entrepreneurs. Practical implications The study would provide the guidelines for policymakers and planners to combat the barriers of fear, PSU and PSE during a pandemic. The findings of the second wave of COVID-19 may provide a warning to the government to take preventive measures to face the severe effect of the pandemic. Finally, the outcomes of the study may enrich the depth of COVID-19 literature globally. Originality/value This study is the first study highlighting factors such as fear, PSU and PSE toward EI in COVID-19 second wave.

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