scholarly journals <i>Campylobacter</i> spp.: Risk factor analysis in fattening pig farms

2007 ◽  
Vol 50 (3) ◽  
pp. 250-259
Author(s):  
T. Wehebrink ◽  
N. Kemper ◽  
E. Grosse Beilage ◽  
J. Krieter
Keyword(s):  
Small Sample Size ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Production Chain ◽  
Pig Production ◽  
Space Design ◽  
Farm Production ◽  
Lack Of Information ◽  
Sources Of Infection ◽  
Campylobacter Spp ◽  
Quantitative Importance

Abstract. There is a lack of information about the prevalence and origins of the important zoonotic pathogen Campylobacter spp. in the different stages of the pig production chain. The aim of this study was to gather further information about the sources of infection with Campylobacter spp. and their qualitative and quantitative importance in pig production. For statistical analysis, 1,040 results from the bacteriological examination for Campylobacter spp. were evaluated with questionnaires from four farrowing and twelve fattening units. The prevalence was determined via faeces and swab samples with regard to certain farm production parameters. Thereby 30.8% of the sows and 80.9% of their piglets were carriers of Campylobacter spp.. In the fattening unit, the prevalence at the beginning of the fattening period was 89.2% and at the end 64.7%. As a result of the small sample size in the farrowing unit it was not possible to perform a risk analysis which yielded significant conclusions. In the fattening stage, the following risk factors had a significant effect (p≤0.05) on Campylobacter spp. prevalence: sampling time, number of fattening places per herd, mixed farming, floor space design, feed origin, antibacterial and anthelmintic treatment. These results show that housing and management have a possible influence on the Campylobacter spp. prevalence and should be investigated further.

scholarly journals Pursuing the adoption pathway: the lived experiences of people living with HIV

2018 ◽  
Vol 13 (1) ◽  
pp. 18-32 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tam Cane ◽  
Vasso Vydellingum ◽  
Wendy Knibb
Keyword(s):  
Social Workers ◽  
Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis ◽  
Small Sample Size ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
People Living With Hiv ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Lack Of Information ◽  
Positive Attitudes ◽  
New Ideas ◽  
Living With Hiv

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the experiences that people with HIV faced as they navigated through the intricate processes of trying to access adoption services in the south of England. It proposes the need to pay more attention to people living with HIV (PLWHIV) able to adopt children. The study aims to develop an increased focus on PLWHIV able to adopt. Design/methodology/approach The paper is an exploratory study using an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) approach. Open-ended interviews were conducted with seven participants including individuals and couples. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using IPA’s cross-case and ideographic analysis. Findings The paper provides empirical insights about the challenges that PLWHIV experienced with social workers. Positive experiences were in the minority. Lack of information, inadequate support, stigma and discrimination, cultural insensitivity and disempowerment were frequently reported. The paper suggests that greater understanding and better education for social workers would improve access to adoption by people with HIV. Research limitations/implications Given the chosen approach and small sample size, results may not be generalisable. Practical implications This study increases knowledge, promotes positive attitudes and improved support for PLWHIV who are stable and able to offer permanency to adoptive children. Originality/value This paper provides new ideas in an area that is scarcely researched. It identifies the need to undertake further studies to understand how social workers assess PLWHIV and what can be done to provide adequate support.

scholarly journals Obstacles to transsexuals becoming parents : a preliminary investigation

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amanda-Lee Mary Chafe
Keyword(s):  
Social Services ◽  
Small Sample Size ◽  
Qualitative Interviews ◽  
Preliminary Investigation ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Medical System ◽  
Donor Insemination ◽  
Key Informants ◽  
Lack Of Information ◽  
The Impact

Transsexuals can become parents through a variety of biological and social means both pre and post-transition. This exploratory study looked at the obstacles transsexuals may face in trying to access parenting through donor insemination, surrogacy and/or adoption post-transition. Qualitative interviews were conducted with two professionals who work with transsexuals trying to access parenting and one transsexual parent/activist. Key informants highlighted a number of obstacles faced by transsexuals trying to access parenting including discrimination from social services, fear of the medical system, lack of information and knowledge biology, cost, lack of support and sense of entitlement. In addition key informants also highlighted the reasons why transsexuals want to become parents, the impact these obstacles can have on children of transsexuals and the changes that need to be made to eliminate these obstacles both at social and governmental levels. It should be noted that because of the small sample size, use of non-probability sampling and uniqueness of each case that the results of this research cannot be generalized to all transsexuals seeking to access parenthood.

scholarly journals Obstacles to transsexuals becoming parents : a preliminary investigation

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amanda-Lee Mary Chafe
Keyword(s):  
Social Services ◽  
Small Sample Size ◽  
Qualitative Interviews ◽  
Preliminary Investigation ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Medical System ◽  
Donor Insemination ◽  
Key Informants ◽  
Lack Of Information ◽  
The Impact

Transsexuals can become parents through a variety of biological and social means both pre and post-transition. This exploratory study looked at the obstacles transsexuals may face in trying to access parenting through donor insemination, surrogacy and/or adoption post-transition. Qualitative interviews were conducted with two professionals who work with transsexuals trying to access parenting and one transsexual parent/activist. Key informants highlighted a number of obstacles faced by transsexuals trying to access parenting including discrimination from social services, fear of the medical system, lack of information and knowledge biology, cost, lack of support and sense of entitlement. In addition key informants also highlighted the reasons why transsexuals want to become parents, the impact these obstacles can have on children of transsexuals and the changes that need to be made to eliminate these obstacles both at social and governmental levels. It should be noted that because of the small sample size, use of non-probability sampling and uniqueness of each case that the results of this research cannot be generalized to all transsexuals seeking to access parenthood.

Probing the ultrastructure of the mitotic and meiotic spindle in eggs: An expeditious approach based on semi-thin (0.25 μm) serial sections

1983 ◽  
Vol 41 ◽  
pp. 552-555
Author(s):  
Conly L. Rieder ◽  
S. Bowser ◽  
R. Nowogrodzki ◽  
K. Ross ◽  
G. Sluder
Keyword(s):  
Small Sample Size ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Meiotic Spindle ◽  
Serial Sections ◽  
Mitotic Apparatus ◽  
Thin Sections ◽  
Cell Cycles ◽  
Ultrastructural Studies

Eggs have long been a favorite material for studying the mechanism of karyokinesis in-vivo and in-vitro. They can be obtained in great numbers and, when fertilized, divide synchronously over many cell cycles. However, they are not considered to be a practical system for ultrastructural studies on the mitotic apparatus (MA) for several reasons, the most obvious of which is that sectioning them is a formidable task: over 1000 ultra-thin sections need to be cut from a single 80-100 μm diameter egg and of these sections only a small percentage will contain the area or structure of interest. Thus it is difficult and time consuming to obtain reliable ultrastructural data concerning the MA of eggs; and when it is obtained it is necessarily based on a small sample size.We have recently developed a procedure which will facilitate many studies concerned with the ultrastructure of the MA in eggs. It is based on the availability of biological HVEM's and on the observation that 0.25 μm thick serial sections can be screened at high resolution for content (after mounting on slot grids and staining with uranyl and lead) by phase contrast light microscopy (LM; Figs 1-2).

Validating the Factor Structure of the Stigma of Suicide Scale–Short Form Spanish Version Among Healthcare Students

Crisis ◽  
2020 ◽  
pp. 1-5
Author(s):  
Ruthmarie Hernández-Torres ◽  
Paola Carminelli-Corretjer ◽  
Nelmit Tollinchi-Natali ◽  
Ernesto Rosario-Hernández ◽  
Yovanska Duarté-Vélez ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Factor Structure ◽  
Structural Equation ◽  
Short Form ◽  
Small Sample Size ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Spanish Version ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Healthcare Students ◽  
Spanish Speaking

Abstract. Background: Suicide is a leading cause of death among Spanish-speaking individuals. Suicide stigma can be a risk factor for suicide. A widely used measure is the Stigma of Suicide Scale-Short Form (SOSS-SF; Batterham, Calear, & Christensen, 2013 ). Although the SOSS-SF has established psychometric properties and factor structure in other languages and cultural contexts, no evidence is available from Spanish-speaking populations. Aim: This study aims to validate a Spanish translation of the SOSS-SF among a sample of Spanish-speaking healthcare students ( N = 277). Method: We implemented a cross-sectional design with quantitative techniques. Results: Following a structural equation modeling approach, a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) supported the three-factor model proposed by Batterham and colleagues (2013) . Limitations: The study was limited by the small sample size and recruitment by availability. Conclusion: Findings suggest that the Spanish version of the SOSS-SF is a valid and reliable tool with which to examine suicide stigma among Spanish-speaking populations.

An Initial Investigation of Suicide Attempt Disclosures Among US Veterans

Crisis ◽  
2020 ◽  
pp. 1-7
Author(s):  
Brooke A. Ammerman ◽  
Sarah P. Carter ◽  
Heather M. Gebhardt ◽  
Jonathan Buchholz ◽  
Mark A. Reger
Keyword(s):  
Suicide Attempt ◽  
Mental Health Professionals ◽  
Help Seeking ◽  
Psychiatric Treatment ◽  
Small Sample Size ◽  
Romantic Partners ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Professional Care ◽  
Patient Disclosure ◽  
Previous Suicide Attempt

Abstract. Background: Patient disclosure of prior suicidal behaviors is critical for effectively managing suicide risk; however, many attempts go undisclosed. Aims: The current study explored how responses following a suicide attempt disclosure may relate to help-seeking outcomes. Method: Participants included 37 veterans with a previous suicide attempt receiving inpatient psychiatric treatment. Veterans reported on their most and least helpful experiences disclosing their suicide attempt to others. Results: Veterans disclosed their suicide attempt to approximately eight individuals. Mental health professionals were the most cited recipient of their most helpful disclosure; romantic partners were the most common recipient of their least helpful disclosures. Positive reactions within the context of the least helpful disclosure experience were positively associated with a sense of connection with the disclosure recipient. Positive reactions within the most helpful disclosure experience were positively associated with the likelihood of future disclosure. No reactions were associated with having sought professional care or likelihood of seeking professional care. Limitations: The results are considered preliminary due to the small sample size. Conclusion: Findings suggest that while positive reactions may influence suicide attempt disclosure experiences broadly, additional research is needed to clarify factors that drive the decision to disclose a suicide attempt to a professional.

Investigating the Dynamics of Suicidal Ideation

Crisis ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 39 (1) ◽  
pp. 65-69 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nina Hallensleben ◽  
Lena Spangenberg ◽  
Thomas Forkmann ◽  
Dajana Rath ◽  
Ulrich Hegerl ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Suicidal Ideation ◽  
Small Sample Size ◽  
Unipolar Depression ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
History Of ◽  
Severity Of Depression ◽  
Ecological Momentary ◽  
Depressive Episodes ◽  
Ema Method ◽  
Shed Light

Abstract. Background: Although the fluctuating nature of suicidal ideation (SI) has been described previously, longitudinal studies investigating the dynamics of SI are scarce. Aim: To demonstrate the fluctuation of SI across 6 days and up to 60 measurement points using smartphone-based ecological momentary assessments (EMA). Method: Twenty inpatients with unipolar depression and current and/or lifetime suicidal ideation rated their momentary SI 10 times per day over a 6-day period. Mean squared successive difference (MSSD) was calculated as a measure of variability. Correlations of MSSD with severity of depression, number of previous depressive episodes, and history of suicidal behavior were examined. Results: Individual trajectories of SI are shown to illustrate fluctuation. MSSD values ranged from 0.2 to 21.7. No significant correlations of MSSD with several clinical parameters were found, but there are hints of associations between fluctuation of SI and severity of depression and suicidality. Limitations: Main limitation of this study is the small sample size leading to low power and probably missing potential effects. Further research with larger samples is necessary to shed light on the dynamics of SI. Conclusion: The results illustrate the dynamic nature and the diversity of trajectories of SI across 6 days in psychiatric inpatients with unipolar depression. Prediction of the fluctuation of SI might be of high clinical relevance. Further research using EMA and sophisticated analyses with larger samples is necessary to shed light on the dynamics of SI.

Participant Reactions to Suicide-Focused Research

Crisis ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 41 (5) ◽  
pp. 367-374
Author(s):  
Sarah P. Carter ◽  
Brooke A. Ammerman ◽  
Heather M. Gebhardt ◽  
Jonathan Buchholz ◽  
Mark A. Reger
Keyword(s):  
Medical Records ◽  
Research Study ◽  
Small Sample Size ◽  
Psychiatric Inpatient ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Inpatient Unit ◽  
Online Laboratory ◽  
Psychiatric Inpatient Unit ◽  
Before And After ◽  
Participant Reactions

Abstract. Background: Concerns exist regarding the perceived risks of conducting suicide-focused research among an acutely distressed population. Aims: The current study assessed changes in participant distress before and after participation in a suicide-focused research study conducted on a psychiatric inpatient unit. Method: Participants included 37 veterans who were receiving treatment on a psychiatric inpatient unit and completed a survey-based research study focused on suicide-related behaviors and experiences. Results: Participants reported no significant changes in self-reported distress. The majority of participants reported unchanged or decreased distress. Reviews of electronic medical records revealed no behavioral dysregulation and minimal use of as-needed medications or changes in mood following participation. Limitations: The study's small sample size and veteran population may limit generalizability. Conclusion: Findings add to research conducted across a variety of settings (i.e., outpatient, online, laboratory), indicating that participating in suicide-focused research is not significantly associated with increased distress or suicide risk.

Measurements method of the audio recordings acoustic quality indicator prepared for registration and processing in the Unified Biometric System

2019 ◽  
pp. 40-46 ◽  
Author(s):  
V.V. Savchenko ◽  
A.V. Savchenko
Keyword(s):  
Quality Control ◽  
Small Sample Size ◽  
Personal Data ◽  
Digital Processing ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Practical Implementation ◽  
Acoustic Measurements ◽  
Pitch Frequency ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Automated Quality Control

We consider the task of automated quality control of sound recordings containing voice samples of individuals. It is shown that in this task the most acute is the small sample size. In order to overcome this problem, we propose the novel method of acoustic measurements based on relative stability of the pitch frequency within a voice sample of short duration. An example of its practical implementation using aninter-periodic accumulation of a speech signal is considered. An experimental study with specially developed software provides statistical estimates of the effectiveness of the proposed method in noisy environments. It is shown that this method rejects the audio recording as unsuitable for a voice biometric identification with a probability of 0,95 or more for a signal to noise ratio below 15 dB. The obtained results are intended for use in the development of new and modifying existing systems of collecting and automated quality control of biometric personal data. The article is intended for a wide range of specialists in the field of acoustic measurements and digital processing of speech signals, as well as for practitioners who organize the work of authorized organizations in preparing for registration samples of biometric personal data.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of polyunsaturated fatty acids efficacy in adolescents with anorexia nervosa

2020 ◽  
Vol 36 (2) ◽  
pp. 95-106
Author(s):  
Agnieszka M. Piróg-Balcerzak ◽  
Anna K. Bażyńska ◽  
Katarzyna Biernacka ◽  
Joanna Brągoszewska ◽  
Lidia Popek ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Fatty Acids ◽  
Anorexia Nervosa ◽  
Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids ◽  
Small Sample Size ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Female Adolescent ◽  
Eating Attitude ◽  
Controlled Study ◽  
Omega 3 ◽  
Eat 26

Objective. Omega–3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) were tested in adolescent depression and in several neurodevelopmental disorders with partial success. Anorexia nervosa (AN) is characterised by deficiencies in fatty food intake and frequent comorbidity, including depressive and cognitive symptoms. Thus supplementation with PUFAs may be beneficial in this group of patients. The aim of the study was to assess whether PUFAs as an add-on treatment is associated with better improvement of body mass index (BMI) and psychopathological symptoms than placebo in patients with AN. Method. 61 female adolescent inpatients with AN were randomly allocated to omega–3 PUFAs supplementation or placebo for 10 weeks. Patients also participated in the behavioural programme and eclectic psychotherapy (treatment as usual, TAU). At baseline and follow-up visits, patients’ BMI and psychopathology were assessed with Clinical Global Impression Scale (CGI), Patient Global Impression Scale (PGI), and Eating Attitude Test (EAT-26). Results. After 10 weeks, both groups showed improvement in all parameters. Improvement in CGI scores was observed greater in placebo vs. PUFA-s group (p = 0.015) while other differences were not statistically significant. Omega–3 PUFAs supplementation appears not to be effective as an add-on treatment in inpatient adolescent girls with anorexia nervosa. Conclusions. The results should be analysed with caution due to small sample size and heterogeneity in TAU. As the TAU turned out to be highly effective, additional therapeutic effect of PUFA might not be visible. Nevertheless, that does not explain the tendency for better improvement in the placebo group.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document