The Angler in the Environment: Social, Economic, Biological, and Ethical Dimensions

<i>Abstract</i>.—Fisheries managers are looking for valid information on basic characteristics of recreational fisheries, such as landings data, to inform management decisions. We present a complementary survey approach designed to generate data on effort and harvest as well as various human dimensions of anglers using a telephonediary- mail survey design for a multispecies, multi-site fishery in a water-rich state in northern Germany (Mecklenburg-Vorpommern). First, a nationwide telephone screening was applied to estimate the total number of active resident and nonresident anglers in the study area. Afterwards, a 1-year diary study with randomly recruited resident and nonresident anglers was conducted. Routine check-up telephone calls were used to encourage the participants, generate detailed human dimensions data on the characteristics of anglers, and evaluate diary entries. After the end of the diary study, 648 anglers (58%) returned complete diaries. Responding diarists were significantly older, had a higher level of education, and encompassed more avid anglers than the nonresponding participants. Thus, diarists were weighted against external characteristics of a random sample of the resident angler population to reduce the risk of biased catch and harvest estimates. Indeed, estimates for harvest and effort based on weighted samples were significantly lower than unweighted mean estimates. Extrapolations of average annual harvest rates per angler to the population level revealed that for the most economically important fish species such as European eel <i>Anguilla anguilla</i>, Atlantic cod <i>Gadus morhua</i>, northern pike <i>Esox lucius</i>, common carp <i>Cyprinus carpio</i>, or Eurasian perch <i>Perca fluviatilis</i>, recreational fishing landings greatly exceeded commercial fisheries landings. Because diary estimates of annual angler landings were generally smaller relative to estimates of angler harvest stemming from 3-month recall periods using telephone surveys and on-site creel surveys, we concluded that the use of diary data likely resulted in conservative estimates of total landings. Our survey design may serve as a model for further studies because of its cost-effectiveness relative to standard creel surveys and because the panel structure of diary studies allows rich insights into individual angler behavior that is not possible to be accomplished by cross-sectional creel surveys.

2019 ◽  
Vol 19 (S1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Debra J. Jackson ◽  
Thu-Ha Dinh ◽  
Carl J. Lombard ◽  
Gayle G. Sherman ◽  
Ameena E. Goga

Abstract Background Eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV is a global public health target. Robust, feasible methodologies to measure population level impact of programmes to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) are needed in high HIV prevalence settings. We present a summary of the protocol of the South African PMTCT Evaluation (SAPMTCTE) with its revision over three repeated rounds of the survey, 2010–2014. Methods Three cross sectional surveys (2010, 2011–2012 and 2012–2013) were conducted in 580 primary health care immunisation service points randomly selected after stratified multistage probability proportional to size sampling. All infants aged 4–8 weeks receiving their six-week immunisation at a sampled facility on the day of the visit were eligible to participate. Trained research nurses conducted interviews and took infant dried blood spot (iDBS) samples for HIV enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and total nucleic acid polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. Interviews were conducted using mobile phones and iDBS were sent to the National Health Laboratory for testing. All findings were adjusted for study design, non-response, and weighted for number of South African live-birth in each study round. In 2012 a national closed cohort of these 4 to 8-week old infants testing EIA positive (HIV Exposed Infants) from the 2012–2013 cross-sectional survey was established to estimate longer-term PMTCT impact to 18 months. Follow-up analyses were to estimate weighted cumulative MTCT until 18 months, postnatal MTCT from 6 weeks until 18 months and a combined outcome of MTCT-or-death, using a competing risks model, with death as a competing risk. HIV-free survival was defined as a child surviving and HIV-negative up to 18 months or last visit seen. A weighted cumulative incidence analysis was conducted, adjusting for survey design effects. Discussion In the absence of robust high-quality routine medical recording systems, in the context of a generalised HIV epidemic, national surveys can be used to monitor PMTCT effectiveness; however, monitoring long-term outcomes nationally is difficult due to poor retention in care.


2021 ◽  
pp. 1-31
Author(s):  
Maria S. Mohamad ◽  
Balkish Mahadir Naidu ◽  
Riittakerttu Kaltiala ◽  
Suvi M. Virtanen ◽  
Susanna Lehtinen-Jacks

Abstract Objective: To examine secular trends and sociodemographic determinants of thinness, overweight, and obesity among Malaysian children and adolescents in 2006-2015. Design: We used cross-sectional data from the National Health and Morbidity Surveys 2006, 2011, and 2015. Individuals were classified into pre- (6-9 years), early (10-13 years) and mid (14-17 years) adolescence. BMI status was determined according to the IOTF and WHO criteria, using measured height and weight. We analysed trends using log-binomial regression, by sex-age groups, stratified by sociodemographic factors (ethnicity, residential area, household size, household income), and accounting for the complex survey design. Associations between sociodemographic factors and prevalence of thinness and overweight (obesity included) in 2015 were assessed using log-Poisson regression. Setting: Nationwide population-based surveys, Malaysia. Participants: Eligible 6-17-year-olds from urban and rural residential areas (N=28,094). Results: The prevalence of thinness decreased from 2006 to 2015 (IOTF: boys from 22% to 18%, girls from 23% to 19%; WHO: boys from 9% to 7%, girls from 8% to 6%), while the prevalence of overweight increased (IOTF: boys from 20% to 26%, girls from 19% to 24%; WHO: boys from 25% to 31%, girls from 22% to 27%). These changes were statistically significant in most sex-age groups. Thinness and overweight co-existed in all sociodemographic subgroups, with variation in the prevalence estimates, but similar secular changes in most subgroups. Conclusions: Malaysia is facing a double burden of malnutrition at population level with a secular increase in overweight and obesity and a gradual decrease in thinness among 6-17-year-olds from varying sociodemographic backgrounds.


2018 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
pp. 01-07
Author(s):  
Alfred Eboh

Background: The hawking of wares by children has been a serious issue confronting the Nigerian society. Children hawk in some of the most horrible conditions conceivable, where they face a serious risk of injury, chronic illness, kidnapping, rape or death. Objective: The focus of this study was to assess the perceived effects of street hawking on the well-being of children in Anyigba, Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State. Methods: The population of this study consists of parents of the street hawkers in Anyigba while cross-sectional survey design was used through the purposive sampling technique to choose the sample size of one hundred and sixty-two (162) respondents. The validated structured questionnaire and In-Depth Interviews (IDIs) served as the instruments for the data collection respectively. The hypotheses were tested using Chi-Square at a predetermined 0.05 level of significance. The quantitative data were analysed with the aid of the SPSS (version 20). Results: The results indicated among others that street hawking had significant social implications and physical consequences on children's moral behaviour as well as health status in the study area. Conclusion: The study, therefore, concluded that the government of Kogi State should carry out an enlightenment campaign through the media and religious institutions on the negative consequences of street hawking are recommended as panacea. Also, the child right act instrument and its implementation should be strengthened in order to curb street hawking in the study area.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dalowar Hossan

The purpose of this article is to examine the influence of corporate social responsibility practices of Dutch-Bangla Bank Limited (DBBL), Bangladesh and to know the client’s knowledge, feedback, awareness and eagerness towards the CSR activities while choosing a bank. This study also investigates the level of present and expected CSR contribution of this bank. A cross- sectional survey design was used for the study featuring a self administered questionnaire and data were collected from 100 clients at South Surma branch. Data were analyzed using SPSS and the findings revealed that CSR activities played an important role for clients to choose a bank. Most of the clients were aware of CSR program and they had positive reaction to CSR practices of DBBL. Clients also suggested to expand CSR practices and they were willing to contribute for social activities financially. The results show the policy implications for business community, citizen, customers, investors, managers and other stakeholders.


2020 ◽  
pp. 1-10
Author(s):  
Colin J. McMahon ◽  
Justin T. Tretter ◽  
Theresa Faulkner ◽  
R. Krishna Kumar ◽  
Andrew N. Redington ◽  
...  

Abstract Objective: This study investigated the impact of the Webinar on deep human learning of CHD. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional survey design study used an open and closed-ended questionnaire to assess the impact of the Webinar on deep learning of topical areas within the management of the post-operative tetralogy of Fallot patients. This was a quantitative research methodology using descriptive statistical analyses with a sequential explanatory design. Results: One thousand-three-hundred and seventy-four participants from 100 countries on 6 continents joined the Webinar, 557 (40%) of whom completed the questionnaire. Over 70% of participants reported that they “agreed” or “strongly agreed” that the Webinar format promoted deep learning for each of the topics compared to other standard learning methods (textbook and journal learning). Two-thirds expressed a preference for attending a Webinar rather than an international conference. Over 80% of participants highlighted significant barriers to attending conferences including cost (79%), distance to travel (49%), time commitment (51%), and family commitments (35%). Strengths of the Webinar included expertise, concise high-quality presentations often discussing contentious issues, and the platform quality. The main weakness was a limited time for questions. Just over 53% expressed a concern for the carbon footprint involved in attending conferences and preferred to attend a Webinar. Conclusion: E-learning Webinars represent a disruptive innovation, which promotes deep learning, greater multidisciplinary participation, and greater attendee satisfaction with fewer barriers to participation. Although Webinars will never fully replace conferences, a hybrid approach may reduce the need for conferencing, reduce carbon footprint. and promote a “sustainable academia”.


Nutrients ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (8) ◽  
pp. 2686
Author(s):  
Michael D. Wirth ◽  
Longgang Zhao ◽  
Gabrielle M. Turner-McGrievy ◽  
Andrew Ortaglia

Background: Research indicates potential cardiometabolic benefits of energy consumption earlier in the day. This study examined the association between fasting duration, timing of first and last meals, and cardiometabolic endpoints using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Methods: Cross-sectional data from NHANES (2005–2016) were utilized. Diet was obtained from one to two 24-h dietary recalls to characterize nighttime fasting duration and timing of first and last meal. Blood samples were obtained for characterization of C-reactive protein (CRP); glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c %); insulin; glucose; and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and total cholesterol. Survey design procedures for adjusted linear and logistic regression were performed. Results: Every one-hour increase in nighttime fasting duration was associated with a significantly higher insulin and CRP, and lower HDL. Every one-hour increase in timing of the last meal of the day was statistically significantly associated with higher HbA1c and lower LDL. Every one-hour increase in first mealtime was associated with higher CRP (β = 0.044, p = 0.0106), insulin (β = 0.429, p < 0.01), and glucose (β = 0.662, p < 0.01), and lower HDL (β = −0.377, p < 0.01). Conclusion: In this large public health dataset, evidence for the beneficial effect of starting energy consumption earlier in the day on cardiometabolic endpoints was observed.


2021 ◽  
pp. 089719002110007
Author(s):  
Caitlin K. Cameron ◽  
Ahmad A. Alamer ◽  
Eliane Fossati ◽  
Gamal Raslan ◽  
Tiffany Nguyen ◽  
...  

Background: The pharmacy profession has experienced dramatic shifts in scopes of practice, services offered, and employment opportunities over the last couple decades. At the same time, the number of students graduating from pharmacy school each year has steadily increased. The combined effect of these factors is a tightening labor market. Identification of potential knowledge and skill deficits in the applicant pool will create opportunity for pharmacists to tailor their personal development and educators to design content to address contemporary needs. Objective: To determine if the current pharmacist pool meets employment needs in Arizona with respect to specific skills and knowledge. Methods: In a cross-sectional survey design, Arizona licensed pharmacists were asked to provide their perspective of the knowledge and skills of candidates for pharmacist positions within 8 skill & knowledge domains. Descriptive statistics were used for respondents’ characteristics. A multivariate logistic regression was used for association between respondent characteristics and responses. Free responses were assessed using a qualitative thematic analysis. Results: Among 685 respondents, 88% were employed, 48% had precepting experience, and 44% were involved with hiring. The majority were from chain community pharmacies (33%) and inpatient settings (22%). Management and conflict resolution skills were reported as lacking by 35% and 28% of respondents respectively; 24% reported insufficient compounding knowledge. Conclusion: Our findings suggest knowledge deficits in management, conflict resolution, and compounding. This information can be used for career planning and for educational program development or curricular enhancements. Similar studies in other regions will provide data on national needs.


2020 ◽  
Vol 2 (1) ◽  
pp. 37-44
Author(s):  
Koawo Edjah ◽  
Francis Ankomah ◽  
Ebenezer Domey ◽  
John Ekow Laryea

AbstractStress is concomitant with students’ life and can have a significant impact on their lives, and even how they go about their academic work. Globally, in every five visits by patients to the doctor, three are stress-related problems. This study examined stress and its impact on the academic and social life among students of a university in Ghana. The descriptive cross-sectional survey design was employed. Using the stratified and simple random (random numbers) sampling methods, 500 regular undergraduate students were engaged in the study. A questionnaire made up of Perceived Stress Scale and Students’ Life Satisfaction Scale was used to gather data for the study. Frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviation, and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), with AMOS were used for the analyses. It was found that majority of the students were moderately stressed. Paramount among the stressors were academic stressors, followed by institutional stressors, and external stressors. Stress had a significant positive impact on the academic and social life of students. It was concluded that undergraduate students, in one way or the other, go through some kind of stress during the course of their study. It was recommended that the university, through its Students’ Affairs, and Counselling Sections, continue to empower students on how to manage and deal with stress in order to enhance their academic life.


2021 ◽  
Vol 20 ◽  
pp. 160940692098604
Author(s):  
L. Y. Saltzman ◽  
L. D. Terzis ◽  
T. C. Hansel ◽  
J. M. Blakey ◽  
D. Logan ◽  
...  

Project Title: Psychosocial Reactions to a Global Pandemic: A Diary Study During COVID-19. Design: The study uses a mixed methods design that includes both a cross-sectional quantitative survey and qualitative diary entries submitted online eight times by student participants. Context of Study: The study timeline spans the full shutdown, phase 1 reopening, and phase 2 reopening of New Orleans Louisiana. Objectives: The study has three primary objectives: (1) To better understand the experiences of Social Work Students during the COVID-19 pandemic; (2) To explore risk and protective factors that influences Social Work Students’ ability to cope with stressors and changes associated with the COVID-19 pandemic; and (3) to track changes over time in coping among Social Work Students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Study Population: Current Master of Social Work (MSW) Students enrolled at Tulane University during the COVID-19 Pandemic will be invited to participate in this study.


2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 214-215
Author(s):  
Rahul Sharma ◽  
Anil Lalwani ◽  
Justin Golub

Abstract The progression and asymmetry of age-related hearing loss has not been well characterized in those 80 years of age and older because public datasets mask upper extremes of age to protect anonymity. We aimed to model the progression and asymmetry of hearing loss in the older old using a representative, national database. This was a cross-sectional, multicentered US epidemiologic analysis using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Study (NHANES) 2005-2006, 2009-2010, and 2011-2012 cycles. Subjects included non-institutionalized, civilian adults 80 years and older (n=621). Federal security clearance was granted to access publicly-restricted age data. Outcome measures included pure-tone average air conduction thresholds and the 4-frequency pure tone average (PTA). 621 subjects were 80 years old or older (mean=84.2 years, range=80-104 years), representing 10,600,197 Americans. Hearing loss exhibited constant acceleration across the adult lifespan at a rate of 0.0052 dB/year2 (95% CI = 0.0049, 0.0055). Compounded over a lifetime, the velocity of hearing loss would increase five-fold, from 0.2 dB loss/year at age 20 to 1 dB loss/year at age 100. This model predicted mean PTA within 2 dB of accuracy for most ages between 20 and 100 years. There was no change in the asymmetry of hearing loss with increasing age over 80 years (linear regression coefficient of asymmetry over age=0.07 (95% CI=-0.01, 0.24). In conclusion, hearing loss steadily and predictably accelerates across the adult lifespan to at least age 100, becoming near-universal. These population-level statistics will guide treatment and policy recommendations for hearing health in the older old.


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