scholarly journals Viral Filtration Efficiency of Fabric Masks Compared with Surgical and N95 Masks

Pathogens ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (9) ◽  
pp. 762
Author(s):  
Harriet Whiley ◽  
Thilini Piushani Keerthirathne ◽  
Muhammad Atif Nisar ◽  
Mae A. F. White ◽  
Kirstin E. Ross
Keyword(s):  
Filtration Efficiency ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Community Settings ◽  
Vacuum Cleaner ◽  
Department Of Health ◽  
Bacteriophage Ms2 ◽  
Surgical Masks ◽  
Victorian Department ◽  
Average Size ◽  
Model Virus

In response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, current modeling supports the use of masks in community settings to reduce the transmission of SARS-CoV-2. However, concerns have been raised regarding the global shortage of medical grade masks and the limited evidence on the efficacy of fabric masks. This study used a standard mask testing method (ASTM F2101-14) and a model virus (bacteriophage MS2) to test the viral filtration efficiency (VFE) of fabric masks compared with commercially available disposable, surgical, and N95 masks. Five different types of fabric masks were purchased from the ecommerce website Etsy to represent a range of different fabric mask designs and materials currently available. One mask included a pocket for a filter; which was tested without a filter, with a dried baby wipe, and a section of a vacuum cleaner bag. A sixth fabric mask was also made according to the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) guidelines (Australia). Three masks of each type were tested. This study found that all the fabric masks had a VFE of at least 50% when tested against aerosols with an average size of 6.0 µm (VFE(6.0 µm)). The minimum VFE of fabric masks improved (to 63%) when the larger aerosols were excluded to give and average aerosol size of 2.6 µm (VFE(2.6 µm)), which better represents inhaled aerosols that can reach the lower respiratory system. The best performing fabric masks were the cotton mask with a section of vacuum cleaner bag (VFE(6.0 µm) = 99.5%, VFE(2.6 µm) = 98.8%) or a dried baby wipe (VFE(6.0 µm) = 98.5%, VFE(2.6 µm) = 97.6%) in the pocket designed for a disposable filter, the mask made using the Victorian DHHS design (VFE(6.0 µm) = 98.6%, VFE(2.6 µm) =99.1%) and one made from a layer of 100% hemp, a layer of poly membrane, and a layer of cheesecloth (VFE(6.0 µm) = 93.6%, VFE(2.6 µm) = 89.0%). The VFE of two surgical masks (VFE(6.0 µm) = 99.9% and 99.6%, VFE(2.6 µm) = 99.5% and 98.5%) and a N95 masks (VFE(6.0 µm) = 99.9%, VFE(2.6 µm) = 99.3%) were comparable to their advertised bacterial filtration efficacy. This research supports the use of fabric masks in the community to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2; however, future research is needed to explore the optimum design in ensuring proper fit. There is also a need for mass education campaigns to disseminate this information, along with guidelines around the proper usage and washing of fabric masks.

Quantifying differences in the epidemic curves from three influenza surveillance systems: a nonlinear regression analysis

2014 ◽  
Vol 143 (2) ◽  
pp. 427-439 ◽  
Author(s):  
E. G. THOMAS ◽  
J. M. McCAW ◽  
H. A. KELLY ◽  
K. A. GRANT ◽  
J. McVERNON
Keyword(s):  
Nonlinear Regression ◽  
Influenza Surveillance ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Surveillance Systems ◽  
Epidemic Curve ◽  
Incidence Data ◽  
Disease Patterns ◽  
Department Of Health ◽  
Baseline Activity ◽  
Victorian Department

SUMMARYInfluenza surveillance enables systematic collection of data on spatially and demographically heterogeneous epidemics. Different data collection mechanisms record different aspects of the underlying epidemic with varying bias and noise. We aimed to characterize key differences in weekly incidence data from three influenza surveillance systems in Melbourne, Australia, from 2009 to 2012: laboratory-confirmed influenza notified to the Victorian Department of Health, influenza-like illness (ILI) reported through the Victorian General Practice Sentinel Surveillance scheme, and ILI cases presenting to the Melbourne Medical Deputising Service. Using nonlinear regression, we found that after adjusting for the effects of geographical region and age group, characteristics of the epidemic curve (including season length, timing of peak incidence and constant baseline activity) varied across the systems. We conclude that unmeasured factors endogenous to each surveillance system cause differences in the disease patterns recorded. Future research, particularly data synthesis studies, could benefit from accounting for these differences.

scholarly journals Tackling antimicrobial resistance in the community

2020 ◽  
Vol 30 (Supplement_5) ◽  
Author(s):  
S Tonkie-Crine ◽  
L Abel ◽  
O Van Hecke ◽  
K Wang ◽  
C Butler
Keyword(s):  
Antibiotic Resistance ◽  
Community Care ◽  
Respiratory Infections ◽  
Antibiotic Prescription ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Antibiotic Prescribing ◽  
Acute Respiratory Infections ◽  
Community Settings ◽  
The Public ◽  
Need Support

Abstract Antibiotic prescription is a major driver of antibiotic resistance. The majority of antibiotic prescribing occurs in community care settings, often for respiratory infections. A substantial proportion of prescriptions are issued not according to guidelines, particularly for acute respiratory infections which can be self-limiting. Prescribers in these settings need support to prescribe antibiotics more prudently. Patients and the public also need support to manage infections which are self-limiting. This presentation presents a summary of how antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) activities are being used in community settings. Firstly, types of community-level interventions are discussed, including those aimed at clinicians, patients and the public. Next, we assess interventions based on their effectiveness at reducing antibiotic prescriptions or use and their cost-effectiveness. Finally, we discuss directions for future research and consider how the research to date could influence policy.

scholarly journals Computer Simulation of the King's Cross Fire: Effect of Radiative Heat Transfer on Fire Spread

1991 ◽  
Vol 205 (3) ◽  
pp. 201-208 ◽  
Author(s):  
W M G Malalasekera ◽  
F Lockwood
Keyword(s):  
Mathematical Model ◽  
Radiative Heat ◽  
Health And Safety ◽  
Fire Spread ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Full Description ◽  
Department Of Health ◽  
Underground Fire ◽  
The Mathematical Model ◽  
Good Agreement

A mathematical model has been applied to simulate model experiments of the 1987 King's Cross underground fire by the Department of Health and Safety Executive. The predicted growth of the fire is compared with the experimental data and in particular the predicted and measured times to ‘flashover’ are compared. The comparisons show exceptional agreement which, in part, may be fortuitous due to the need to facilitate the prediction of the early stages of the growth with the aid of an experimentally estimated fire strength. The good agreement nonetheless is also due to the full description of the radiation transfer which is a feature of the mathematical model. It is concluded that the flashover phenomenon that occurred at King's Cross was thermal radiation driven and that future research should be devoted to modelling the details of fire spread across a combustible surface.

scholarly journals Evaluating the national multisite implementation of dialectical behaviour therapy in a community setting: A mixed methods approach

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Daniel Flynn ◽  
Mary Joyce ◽  
Conall Gillespie ◽  
Mary Kells ◽  
Michaela Swales ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mixed Methods ◽  
National Level ◽  
Team Leader ◽  
Barriers And Facilitators ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Community Settings ◽  
Team Leaders ◽  
Implementation Framework ◽  
Mixed Methods Approach

Abstract Background The implementation of evidence-based interventions for borderline personality disorder in community settings is important given that individuals with this diagnosis are often extensive users of both inpatient and outpatient mental health services. Although work in this area is limited, previous studies have identified facilitators and barriers to successful DBT implementation. This study seeks to expand on previous work by evaluating a coordinated implementation of DBT in community settings at a national level. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) [1] provided structural guidance for this national level coordinated implementation.Methods A mixed methods approach was utilised to explore the national multi-site implementation of DBT from the perspective of team leaders and therapists who participated in the coordinated training and subsequent implementation of DBT. Qualitative interviews with DBT team leaders ( n = 8) explored their experiences of implementing DBT in their local service and was analysed using content analysis. Quantitative surveys from DBT therapists ( n = 74) examined their experience of multiple aspects of the implementation process including orienting the system, and preparations and support for implementation. Frequencies of responses were calculated. Written qualitative feedback was analysed using content analysis.Results Five themes were identified from the interview data: team formation, implementation preparation, client selection, service level challenges and team leader role. Participants identified team size and support for the team leader as key points for consideration in DBT implementation. Key challenges encountered were the lack of system support to facilitate phone coaching and a lack of allocated time to focus on DBT. Implementation facilitators included having dedicated team members and support from management.Conclusions The barriers and facilitators identified in this study are broadly similar to those reported in previous research. Barriers and facilitators were identified across several domains of the CFIR and are consistent with a recently published DBT implementation Framework [2]. Future research should pay particular attention to the domain of characteristics of individuals involved in DBT implementation. The results highlight the importance of a mandated service plan for the coordinated implementation of an evidence-based treatment in a public health service.

scholarly journals Getting a Grip on My Depression: How Latina Adolescents Experience, Self-Manage, and Seek Treatment for Depressive Symptoms

2019 ◽  
Vol 29 (12) ◽  
pp. 1725-1738
Author(s):  
Allison McCord Stafford ◽  
Matthew C. Aalsma ◽  
Silvia Bigatti ◽  
Ukamaka Oruche ◽  
Claire Burke Draucker
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Depressive Symptoms ◽  
Young Women ◽  
Peer Groups ◽  
Constructivist Grounded Theory ◽  
Female Adolescents ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Community Settings ◽  
Latina Adolescents ◽  
To Receive

Latina (female) adolescents are more likely to experience depressive symptoms and less likely to receive mental health services than their non-Latina White peers. We aimed to develop a framework that explains how Latina adolescents experience, self-manage, and seek treatment for depressive symptoms. Latina young women ( n = 25, M age = 16.8 years) who experienced depressive symptoms during adolescence were recruited from clinical and community settings and interviewed about experiences with depressive symptoms. The framework was developed using constructivist grounded theory methods. Participants experienced a psychosocial problem that we labeled being overburdened and becoming depressed. They responded to this problem through a five-phase psychosocial process that we labeled Getting a Grip on My Depression. Family members, peer groups, and mainstream authorities were influential in how participants experienced these phases. Future research should further develop this framework in diverse samples of Latino/a youth. Clinicians can use this framework in discussions with Latina adolescents about depressive symptoms.

scholarly journals Researchable questions to support evidence-based mental health policy concerning adult mental illness

2002 ◽  
Vol 26 (10) ◽  
pp. 364-367 ◽  
Author(s):  
Graham Thornicroft ◽  
Jonathan Bindman ◽  
David Goldberg ◽  
Kevin Gournay ◽  
Peter Huxley
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Mental Health Policy ◽  
Health Department ◽  
Mental Health Research ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Policy Makers ◽  
Future Research Agenda ◽  
Department Of Health ◽  
National Service Framework ◽  
Mental Health Department

Policy makers find much mental health research irrelevant to their concerns. What types of research would directly assist those who formulate policy? The two purposes of this paper are (i) to identify important gaps in completed research, particularly in relation to the National Service Framework (NSF) for Mental Health (Department of Health, 1999a) and the NHS Plan (NHS Confederation, 2001); and (ii) to translate these gaps into researchable questions that can contribute to a debate about the future research agenda for general adult mental health in England.

scholarly journals Using de novo transcriptome assembly and analysis to study RNAi in Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae)

2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Satnam Singh ◽  
Mridula Gupta ◽  
Suneet Pandher ◽  
Gurmeet Kaur ◽  
Neha Goel ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
De Novo ◽  
Transcriptome Assembly ◽  
Instar Nymph ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Rnai Machinery ◽  
Phenacoccus Solenopsis ◽  
Atpase Subunit ◽  
Molecular Sequence ◽  
Rnai Efficiency ◽  
Average Size

Abstract Phenacoccus solenopsis is one of the major polyphagous crop pests in India. Inadequate genomic or transcriptomic resources have limited the molecular studies in this insect despite its huge economic importance. The existing molecular sequence resources of this insect were supplemented through RNA sequencing, de novo transcriptome assembly and analysis, which generated 12, 925 CDS from 23,643 contigs with an average size of 1077.5 bp per CDS and 85.1% positive BLAST hits with NCBI Non redundant (nr) database. Twenty three genes involved in RNAi machinery identified through BLASTx search against NCBI nr database suggested the existence of robust RNAi in mealybug. RNAi in P. solenopsis was demonstrated through knockdown of IAP (Inhibitor of Apoptosis), AQP (Aquaporin), CAL (Calcitonin), VATPase (V-type proton ATPase subunit F 1), bursicon, chitin synthase, SNF7 and α-amylase by injecting sequence specific dsRNA of respective genes in adult female. Additionally, feeding RNAi has been demonstrated in 2nd instar nymph through dsRNA uptake in plant. The knockdown of core RNAi machinery genes such as Dicer, Argonaute and Staufen significantly hampered RNAi efficiency in this insect. However, downregulation of dsRNases improved RNAi efficiency. Sequential studies for understanding RNAi in P. solenopsis using transcriptome sequences have also been reported. The present study provides a base for future research on developing RNAi as strategy for management of this pest.

A rejoinder: the real story of the H&CS Enterprise Competency Standards

1993 ◽  
Vol 18 (3) ◽  
pp. 31-34 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bob Burgell
Keyword(s):  
Child Protection ◽  
Community Services ◽  
The Real ◽  
Department Of Health ◽  
Skill Analysis ◽  
Victorian Department

The article ‘A Word Salad - Enterprise Based Competencies in Child Protection’, Children Australia 18 (2) 1993 by Dr. Lesley Cooper, examines the Victorian Department of Health and Community Services (H&CS) Skills Enhancement Project (SEP). H&CS plainly rejects the negative criticisms of the skill analysis work which the article espouses.

scholarly journals Switching Hats: The Effect of Role Transition on Individual Ambidexterity

2017 ◽  
Vol 45 (4) ◽  
pp. 1517-1539 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michiel P. Tempelaar ◽  
Nicole A. Rosenkranz
Keyword(s):  
Role Transition ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Role Integration ◽  
Organizational Functions ◽  
Average Size ◽  
Functional Teams ◽  
Role Demands ◽  
The Impact ◽  
The Relationship

This article contributes to the growing body of research that focuses on the microfoundations of organizational ambidexterity, that is, understanding what enables individuals to address the exploitation-exploration dilemma. One central challenge generated by ambidexterity is the multiplicity and divergence of organizational roles, to which individuals need to cater when exploiting and exploring. Specifically, we point to the relevance of how individuals identify with and enact this multiplicity of role demands. Following identity theory, we apply the logic of role integration and role segmentation, a foundational classification of how individuals cognitively manage role multiplicity. Further, as different role domains often require the interaction with other organizational functions, we test for the moderating effect of cross-functional coordination on the relationship between role segmentation and individual ambidexterity. Based on data from 120 global account managers employed by multinationals with an average size of 73,348 employees, our results indicate that role segmentation negatively influences an individual’s ability to behave ambidextrously. Interestingly, though, when operating in cross-functional teams, the impact of role segmentation becomes positive. We conclude by highlighting the scope and significance of these findings for theory, managerial practice, and future research.

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