scholarly journals Concerns Related to the COVID-19 in Adult Norwegians during the First Outbreak in 2020: A Qualitative Approach

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (8) ◽  
pp. 4312
Author(s):  
Laila Skogstad ◽  
Inger Schou-Bredal ◽  
Tore Bonsaksen ◽  
Trond Heir ◽  
Øivind Ekeberg ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Analysis ◽  
Educational Level ◽  
Qualitative Approach ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Response Options ◽  
Serious Illness ◽  
Additional Information ◽  
Qualitative Thematic Analysis ◽  
Norwegian Population ◽  
Shed Light

Concerns related to the first outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Norwegian population are studied in a cross-sectional web-survey conducted between 8 April and 20 May 2020. The qualitative thematic analysis of the open-ended question “Do you have other concerns related to the pandemic?”, followed a six-step process. Concerns from 1491 informants were analyzed, 34% of women and 30% of men (p = 0.05) provided concerns. Respondents with higher educational level reported concerns more often (86% vs. 83%, p = 0.022). The qualitative analysis revealed five themes—society, health, social activities, personal economy and duration—and 13 sub-themes, mostly related to the themes “society” and “health” (724 and 704, respectively). Empathy for others was prominent, for society (nationally and globally), but also concerns related to infecting others and family members at risk for developing serious illness if infected. The responses to the open-ended question yielded additional information, beyond the information obtained from questions with pre-categorized response options, especially related to concerns about society and health. Themes arising from the qualitative analysis shed light on what are important concerns for people during the pandemic and this may serve as targeted measures for the authorities.

Serious Illness Conversations With Outpatient Oncology Clinicians: Understanding the Patient Experience

2020 ◽  
Vol 16 (12) ◽  
pp. e1507-e1515
Author(s):  
Pallavi Kumar ◽  
Jenna Wixon-Genack ◽  
Jane Kavanagh ◽  
Justin J. Sanders ◽  
Joanna Paladino ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Analysis ◽  
Positive Impact ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Structured Interview ◽  
Future Health ◽  
Oncology Patients ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Serious Illness ◽  
Life Planning ◽  
End Of Life Planning

PURPOSE: Guidelines recommend earlier advance care planning discussions focused on goals and values (serious illness communication) among oncology patients. We conducted a prospective, cross-sectional quality improvement evaluation of patients who had a serious illness conversation (SIC) with an oncology clinician using the Serious Illness Conversation Guide to understand patient perceptions of conversations using a structured guide. METHODS: We contacted 66 oncology patients with an SIC documented in the electronic health record. Thirty-two patients (48%) responded to survey and/or structured interview questions by telephone. We used summary statistics and thematic analysis to analyze results. RESULTS: Twenty-eight respondents (90%) reported that the SIC was worthwhile. Seventeen respondents (55%) reported that the conversation increased their understanding of their future health, and 18 (58%) reported that the conversation increased their sense of closeness with their clinician. Although the majority of respondents (28 [90%]) reported that the conversation increased (13 [42%]) or had no effect (15 [48%]) on their hopefulness, a small minority (3 [10%]) reported a decrease in hopefulness. Qualitative analysis revealed 6 themes: clinician-patient relationship, impact on well-being, memorable characteristics of the conversation, improved prognostic understanding, practical planning, and family communication. CONCLUSION: SICs are generally acceptable to oncology patients (nonharmful to the vast majority, positive for many). Our qualitative analysis suggests a positive impact on prognostic understanding and end-of-life planning, but opportunities for improvement in the delivery of prognosis and preparing patients for SICs. Our data also identify a small cohort who responded negatively, highlighting an important area for future study.

Analisis Efektivitas Distribusi Zakat Produktif Dalam Meningkatkan Kesejahteraan Mustahik (Studi Kantor Cabang Rumah Zakat Sumatera Utara)

2019 ◽  
Vol 4 (1) ◽  
pp. 137
Author(s):  
Mulkan Syah Riza
Keyword(s):  
Data Analysis ◽  
Data Collection ◽  
Qualitative Analysis ◽  
Field Research ◽  
Qualitative Approach ◽  
North Sumatra ◽  
Descriptive Method ◽  
Descriptive Qualitative

This study aims to explain how the distribution of productive zakat in the Rumah Zakat North Sumatra and how the effectiveness of productive zakat distribution in improving the welfare of mustahik in the Rumah Zakat North Sumatra. This study uses a qualitative approach with a type of descriptive method, which is a problem that guides researchers to explore and photograph situations that will be thoroughly investigated, broadly and deeply. Data collection techniques with field research, while the tools used are observation, interviews and documentation. Data analysis used is descriptive qualitative analysis. The results of this study inform that in distributing productive zakat funds, Rumah Zakat is in accordance with Law No. 23 of 2011 concerning Management of Zakat. The distribution of productive zakat carried out by the Rumah Zakat North Sumatra through the Senyum Mandiri Program to mustahik in Medan Helvetia Subdistrict has been effective, because it can improve the welfare of mustahik, this is evidenced by the income of eight of thirteen mustahik people in total, five people whose income is fixed and four out of eight people whose income has increased has reached the level of muzaki.

Repeated Occupational Exposure to Low-level Blast in the Canadian Armed Forces: Effects on Hearing, Balance, and Ataxia

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ann Nakashima ◽  
Oshin Vartanian ◽  
Shawn G Rhind ◽  
Kristen King ◽  
Catherine Tenn ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Hearing Loss ◽  
Occupational Exposure ◽  
Armed Forces ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Low Level ◽  
Additional Information ◽  
Adverse Health Effects ◽  
Blast Overpressure ◽  
Blast Exposure

ABSTRACT Introduction Recently, there has been increasing concern about the adverse health effects of long-term occupational exposure to low-level blast in military personnel. Occupational blast exposure occurs routinely in garrison through use of armaments and controlled blast detonations. In the current study, we focused on a population of breaching instructors and range staff. Breaching is a tactical technique that is used to gain entry into closed spaces, often through the use of explosives. Materials and Methods Initial measurements of blast overpressure collected during breaching courses found that up to 10% of the blasts for range staff and up to 32% of the blasts for instructors exceeded the recommended 3 psi exposure limit. Using a cross-sectional design, we used tests of balance, ataxia, and hearing to compare a sample of breachers (n = 19) to age-and sex-matched military controls (n = 19). Results There were no significant differences between the two groups on the balance and ataxia tests, although the average scores of both groups were lower than would be expected in a normative population. The prevalence of hearing loss was low in the breacher group (4 of 19), and hearing thresholds were not significantly different from the controls. However, the prevalence of self-reported tinnitus was significantly higher in the breacher group (12 of 19) compared with the controls (4 of 19), and all breachers who were identified as having hearing loss also reported tinnitus. Conclusions Our results suggest that basic tests of balance, ataxia, and hearing on their own were not sensitive to the effects of long-term occupational exposure to low-level blast. Some of the blast exposure levels exceeded limits, and there was a significant association of exposure with tinnitus. Future studies should supplement with additional information including exposure history and functional hearing assessments. These findings should be considered in the design of future acute and longitudinal studies of low-level blast exposure.

scholarly journals Association between the Sociodemographic Characteristics of Parents with Health-Related and Lifestyle Markers of Children in Three Different Spanish-Speaking Countries: An Inter-Continental Study at OECD Country Level

Nutrients ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (8) ◽  
pp. 2672
Author(s):  
Cristian Álvarez ◽  
Iris Paola Guzmán-Guzmán ◽  
Pedro Ángel Latorre-Román ◽  
Juan Párraga-Montilla ◽  
Constanza Palomino-Devia ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Marital Status ◽  
Educational Level ◽  
Handgrip Strength ◽  
After School ◽  
Full Potential ◽  
Socioeconomic Level ◽  
Inverse Association ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Low Socioeconomic ◽  
Spanish Speaking

The purpose of this cross-cultural study was to determine the association between the sociodemographic background of a child’s parents (i.e., their socioeconomic level, marital status, and educational level) with the child’s lifestyle (i.e., Mediterranean diet (MD), physical activity (PA) and screen time (ST)), and health markers. Material: This cross-sectional study included 1273 children, from Chile (n = 496), Colombia (n = 340), and Spain (n = 437). The sociodemographic information together with the lifestyle and health markers of the children were measured. There was an inverse association between a low or medium-low socioeconomic level for the parents of Chilean children and handgrip strength (β −0.61, p < 0.001); meanwhile, for Spanish children, an inverse association between a low or medium-low socioeconomic level and PA after school (β −0.58, p = 0.016), lifestyle (β −0.74, p = 0.015), and with MD adherence (β −0.86, p = 0.004) was found. The risk (i.e., by odd ratios (OR)) of being divorced/separated parents marital status showed an inverse association with abdominal obesity (OR 0.21, p = 0.045) in Spanish children; however, the parent’s marital status and a low educational level were risk factors for the suffering of a low nutritional level in Colombian children (OR 2.02, p = 0.048; OR 2.49, p < 0.001, respectively). On the other hand, a low educational level for parents reported for Chilean children had a positive association with ST of ≥4 h per day (OR 1.82, p = 0.020). In conclusion, in Spanish-speaking children, the lifestyle and health markers of the children are affected by the sociodemographic background of their parents; however, these effects could be moderated by the socio-cultural and economic status of their countries as members of the OCDE; therefore, it is essential to develop policies that decrease these gaps, so that children who are under-resourced can reach their full potential.

scholarly journals The Relationship between Clinic Visit Accompanied by Family and Dementia Severity in Taiwan

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (4) ◽  
pp. 1792
Author(s):  
Chih-Yen Chang ◽  
Shou-Jen Lan ◽  
Chiao-Lee Chu ◽  
Ching-Sung Ho
Keyword(s):  
Educational Level ◽  
Binary Logistic Regression ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Clinic Visit ◽  
Clinical Dementia Rating ◽  
Score Distribution ◽  
Chi Square ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Central Taiwan ◽  
Severity Of Dementia

Introduction: This study analyzes the severity of dementia status with clinical dementia rating (CDR) score distribution among patients according to various family functional and sociodemographic issues. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed in a regional hospital in Central Taiwan. The sample consisted of 318 patients who came to the clinic from May 2018 to April 2019, and who were diagnosed by the physicians with CDR scores ≧ 0.5. The Chi-Square test and binary logistic regression analyses were performed for inferential statistical analysis. Results: The mean age of the sample was 78.7 ± 8.51 years, and 61.6% of the samples’ CDR scores were equal or less than 1.0. Patients visiting the clinic were accompanied by spouses (21.7%), sons or daughters-in-law (40.6%), daughters (23.6%). Of the sample, 142 (44.3%) patients live with sons. Patients with a lower educational level had higher CDR scores. Compared to the patients who went to the clinic by themselves, the higher OR values of CDR scores ≧ 2 are found in patients who were accompanied by other relatives (OR = 18.871, 95% C.I. = 3.117–114.237, p = 0.001), or spouse (OR = 10.783, 95% C.I. = 1.996–58.245, p = 0.006). Conclusion: The family member who accompanied the patient to a clinic visit and the patient’s educational level are both significant issues relating to the severity of dementia.

scholarly journals Knowledge on postnatal care among postpartum mothers during discharge in maternity hospitals in Asmara: a cross-sectional study

2020 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ghirmay Ghebreigziabher Beraki ◽  
Eyasu H. Tesfamariam ◽  
Amanuel Gebremichael ◽  
Berhanemeskel Yohannes ◽  
Kessete Haile ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Breast Feeding ◽  
Educational Level ◽  
Postnatal Care ◽  
Knowledge Score ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Postnatal Period ◽  
Danger Sign ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Maternity Hospitals ◽  
Postpartum Mothers

Abstract Background The early postnatal period is a dangerous time for both mother and baby where morbidity and mortality are highly prevalent if proper care is not done. Post natal care (PNC) knowledge has significant role in reducing such complications. In this study, the knowledge of postpartum mothers on PNC and its determinants were determined. Methods A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted in postpartum mothers (PpM) who attended all maternal delivery services in Asmara. Data was collected by a structured questionnaire. All (n = 250) PpM who gave birth in December, 2017 were included in the study. Independent samples t-test and one way ANOVA were used to compare the scores in knowledge across categories of background characteristics using SPSS. Bonferroni post-hoc test was performed for variables that were found to be significant while using ANOVA tool. P-values less than 0.05 were considered as significant. Results The percentage of PpM who cited vaginal bleeding, as a maternal danger sign, and fever, as a baby danger sign, were 83.2 and 58.8%, respectively. The majority (96%) of PpM responded the correct answer on where to go if they note any danger signs. In addition, more than nine tenth of PpM correctly identified injectable contraceptives (92.7%) and oral contraceptive (91.5%). The percentages of knowledge in recognizing the necessary nutrients ranged from 87.6% for carbohydrates to 46% for minerals. The percentages of correct knowledge regarding first baby bath, frequency of breast feeding, umbilical care, duration of exclusive breast feeding, need and purpose of vaccine were 40.1, 81.9, 77.4, 94.8, and 99.2% respectively. The mean PNC knowledge score was 24.89/60. The score of knowledge on postnatal care was found to significantly differ across the categories of residence (p < 0.001) and ethnicity (p = 0.015). An increasing trend of knowledge score was observed with increase in age group (p < 0.001), educational level (p = 0.021), gravida (p < 0.001) and para (p < 0.001). Conclusion Considerable gaps in knowledge regarding postnatal care among postpartum mothers were evident. Special attention should be laid on rural residents, single/living together, junior/below in educational level, primigravida/para, non-Tigrigna ethnicity, and 17 to 25 years old mothers.

scholarly journals Concerns in the Norwegian Population during the Initial Lockdown Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (11) ◽  
pp. 6119
Author(s):  
Inger Schou-Bredal ◽  
Laila Skogstad ◽  
Tine K. Grimholt ◽  
Tore Bonsaksen ◽  
Øivind Ekeberg ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Female Gender ◽  
Population Based ◽  
Snowball Sampling ◽  
Financial Loss ◽  
Next Of Kin ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Norwegian Population ◽  
Gender And Age ◽  
Response Alternatives

Although concern affects one’s welfare or happiness, few studies to date have focused on peoples’ concerns during the initial COVID-19 lockdown. The aim of the study was to explore concerns in the Norwegian populations according to gender and age, and identify which concerns were most prominent during the lockdown. A population-based cross-sectional online survey using snowball-sampling strategies was conducted, to which 4527 adults (≥18 years) responded. Questions related to concerns had response alternatives yes or no. In addition, they were asked which concern was most prominent. Nearly all the 4527 respondents (92%) reported that they were concerned: 60.9% were generally concerned about the pandemic, 83.9% were concerned about family and friends, 21.8% had financial concerns, and 25.3% expected financial loss. More women were concerned about family and friends than males, (85.2% vs. 76.2%, p < 0.001), whereas more men expected financial loss (30.4% vs. 24.4%y, p = 0.001). Younger adults (<50 years) had more financial concerns than older adults (25.9% vs. 10.5%, p < 0.001). Being concerned about family and friends was the most prominent concern and was associated with; lower age (OR 0.79), female gender (OR 1.59), and being next of kin (2.42). The most prominent concern for adults 70 years or older was being infected by COVID-19. In conclusion, women and younger individuals were most concerned. While adults under 70 years of age were most concerned about family and friends and adults 70 years or older were most concerned about being infected by COVID-19.

Altered endocannabinoid-dynamics in craniopharyngioma patients and their association with HPA-axis disturbances

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Matthias K. Auer ◽  
Dorothea Gebert ◽  
Sarah V Biedermann ◽  
Laura Bindila ◽  
Günter Stalla ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Hpa Axis ◽  
Mixed Model ◽  
Endocannabinoid System ◽  
Metabolic Phenotype ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Mixed Model Analysis ◽  
Additional Information ◽  
Single Center Study ◽  
Rewarding Behavior ◽  
Response To Exercise

Objective Patients with craniopharyngioma (CP) frequently suffer from morbid obesity. Endocannabinoids (ECs) are involved in weight gain and rewarding behavior but have not been investigated in this context. Design Cross-sectional single-center study. Methods Eighteen patients with CP and 16 age- and sex-matched controls were included. Differences in endocannabinoids (2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA)) and endocannabinoid-like molecules (oleoyl ethanolamide (OEA), palmitoyl ethanolamide (PEA), and arachidonic acid (AA) were measured at baseline and following endurance exercise. We further explored ECs-dynamics in relation to markers of HPA-axis activity (ACTH, cortisol, copeptin) and hypothalamic damage. Results Under resting conditions, independent of differences in BMI, 2-AG levels were more than twice as high in CP patients compared to controls. In contrast, 2-AG and OEA level increased in response to exercise in controls but not in CP patients, while AEA levels decreased in controls. As expected, exercise increased ACTH and copeptin levels in controls only. In a mixed model analysis across time and group, HPA measures did not provide additional information for explaining differences in 2-AG levels. However, AEA levels were negatively influenced by ACTH and copeptin levels, while OEA levels were negatively predicted by copeptin levels only. There were no significant differences in endocannabinoids depending on hypothalamic involvement. Conclusion Patients with CP show signs of a dysregulated endocannabinoid system under resting conditions as well as following exercise in comparison to healthy controls. Increased 2-AG levels under resting conditions and the missing response to physical activity could contribute to the metabolic phenotype of CP patients.

scholarly journals Interstellar and interplanetary solids in the laboratory

2015 ◽  
Vol 11 (A29B) ◽  
pp. 416-419 ◽  
Author(s):  
Emmanuel Dartois ◽  
Ivan Alata ◽  
Cécile Engrand ◽  
Rosario Brunetto ◽  
Jean Duprat ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Interstellar Medium ◽  
Environmental Parameters ◽  
Interstellar Matter ◽  
Additional Information ◽  
Set Constraints ◽  
Physico Chemical ◽  
Space Environments ◽  
Chemical Conditions ◽  
Extraterrestrial Material ◽  
Shed Light

AbstractThe composition of interstellar matter is driven by environmental parameters and results from extreme interstellar medium physico-chemical conditions. Astrochemists must rely on remote observations to monitor and analyze the interstellar solids composition. They bring additional information from the study of analogues produced in the laboratory, placed in simulated space environments. Planetologists and cosmochemists access and spectroscopically examine collected extraterrestrial material in the laboratory. Diffuse interstellar medium and molecular clouds observations set constraints on the composition of organic solids that can then be compared with collected extraterrestrial materials analyses, to shed light on their possible links.

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