Information Resources Research Articles

Database resources of the National Center for Biotechnology Information in 2025

Abstract The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) provides online information resources for biology, including the GenBank® nucleic acid sequence repository and the PubMed® repository of citations and abstracts published in life science journals. NCBI provides search and retrieval operations for most of these data from 31 distinct repositories and knowledgebases. The E-utilities serve as the programming interface for most of these. Resources receiving significant updates in the past year include PubMed, PubMed Central, Bookshelf, the NIH Comparative Genomics Resource, BLAST, Sequence Read Archive, Taxonomy, iCn3D, Conserved Domain Database, Pathogen Detection, antimicrobial resistance resources and PubChem. These resources can be accessed through the NCBI home page at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.

‘We didn't need to know about everything all at once’

Tertiary student engagement with information and academic literacy online resources provided by centralized units is low. Although these resources are designed to prepare students for their assessments, they are often positioned peripherally to students’ learning environments. In attempting to position resources within students’ learning environments, our Library team conduct regular user experience (UX) testing of a course we have designed in our institution’s learning management system. Our two-year UX project has focused on the design and organization of resources that show students examples and guidance with how to do their assessments. Over two rounds of data collection and analysis, UX methods of usability testing, card sorting, low-fidelity wireframing, and high-fidelity prototyping helped identify student preferences for organising and accessing our resources. Findings indicate that students value the provision of relevant examples and guidance that show them what is expected in assessments and that they want direct access to that content as part of their courses. Implications for design include maximizing ease of use by positioning links to relevant examples and guidance in the assessment instructions and/or specific learning materials of courses, with the content being linked to positioned within a centralized repository in the same online learning environment.

Managerial and organisational factors: Unravelling resource allocation choices in high-performing micro-firms

Resource allocation decisions are pivotal in shaping the strategic direction of organisations, particularly in micro-firms that operate with limited resources and dispersed information. This research delves into the intricate interplay between managerial and organisational factors related to information collection, processing and resource allocation in the context of high-performing micro-firms. By advancing our understanding of how the internal coordination of information needed in decision-making and resource allocation evolves within micro-firms, we reveal the mechanisms that stabilise the relationship between participants and problems. Additionally, we explore how the capabilities of managers and owners, who often centralise final decisions in micro-firms, can catalyse the emergence of such coordination. This holistic view of strategic resource allocation in micro-firm settings addresses the fundamental question of how micro-enterprises overcome structural limitations to achieve high levels of performance. Our findings provide valuable insights for scholars, managers and policymakers, contributing to the broader discourse on resource management in micro-firms.

A survey of beliefs, attitudes, knowledge, and behaviors about evidence-based practice in physical therapists of Latin America: a cross-sectional study

Evidence-based practice (EBP) refers to the integration of scientific evidence into the clinical setting. This study aimed to determine whether Latin American physiotherapists use EBP, analyze the associated factors, barriers, and facilitators, and examine the relationships between these elements in clinical practice. To conduct this cross-sectional study, the web-based questionnaire survey method was chosen. Survey was self-administered questionnaires to assess understanding of various EBP-related terms and determine their knowledge and ability to apply these concepts in clinical practice. The association between attitudes, awareness, and knowledge scores and the demographic data such as age group, years of experience, professional membership registry, and self-reported education was assessed. The questionnaire was distributed to a total of 5000 physical therapists, of which 4099 (82%) responded from seven Latin American countries (Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, México, Perú, and Venezuela), between June 1, 2020, and May 31, 2024. Overall, the physical therapists had positive attitudes, beliefs, and interests in EBP. Their educational background, knowledge, and skills related to assessing and interpreting information were associated to the use of EBP. In addition, 53% of respondents indicated that lack of time was the main obstacle to the use of EBP. The top 3 barriers included insufficient time (53%), lack of information resources (20.8%), and lack of research tools (13.6%). Among Latin American physical therapists, individual characteristics workplace, clinical experience, educational background, and demographic characteristics, may behave as facilitators or barriers when performing an EBP. Thus, identifying methods and strategies to support physical therapists in adopting EBP in the Latin American is necessary. The academization of physiotherapy training might change this in the future.

Codesign and evaluation of advanced therapeutic information resources for and with families of children with neurological conditions: a mixed methods cross-sectional study

ObjectiveParents and caregivers of children with neurological conditions express interest in new and developing treatments and trials; however, they have limited knowledge of, and access to, reliable information. This study...

Racial disparity in mortality from tuberculosis in the US between states with and without a history of Jim-Crow laws: an analysis of the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) and risk factors study, 1990 to 2019.

While TB-related mortality in the US declined four-fold from 1990 to 2019, country-level estimates of TB burden obscure within-state racial heterogeneity and changes in TB burden over time. In sixteen US Southern States and Washington DC, the effects of health inequities engendered by Jim-Crow laws enacted from the late 1800s to the 1960s have not been evaluated for TB-related mortality. We, therefore, sought to compare TB mortality rates and annualized rate of change (AROC) between 1990 and 2019 in former Jim-Crow vs. non-Jim-Crow states to help guide response efforts and inform resource prioritization to improve racial equity. We evaluated whether TB-related mortality varied over time, from 1990 to 2019, between states that have a history of enacting Jim-Crow laws vs. states with no such history using estimates from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study 2019 (GBD 2019). TB mortality per 100,000 population and bootstrap 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs) were modeled using the Cause of Death Ensemble model (CODEm) framework with varying combinations of predictive covariates. For changes over time, we present age-standardized AROC as the percent difference in the natural logarithm of the rate in 1990 and 2019 divided by 30 (i.e., 100*[ln(2019 Rate/1990 Rate)/(30)) and the corresponding 95% UIs. TB-related mortality in all US states declined between 1990 and 2019. From 1990 to 2019, most former Jim-Crow states had higher mortality rates than states that did not enact Jim-Crow laws. The most significant decline in TB mortality was in Washington DC, with a six-fold decline from 2.69 (2.46-2.96) per 100,000 population in 1990 to 0.45(0.37-0.55) in 2019, corresponding to an AROC of -0.83% (-0.86;-0.79). The lowest decline was in Iowa, from 0.30 (0.27-0.33) to 0.09 (0.07-0.11) (AROC: -0.70% (-0.76; -0.63)). Eleven of the 16 states and Washington DC in the third tertile of TB mortality rate in 1990 (range 0.81-2.69) had a history of Jim-Crow laws, whereas none of the 17 states in the first tertile (range 0.30-0.51) had such history. Conversely, mortality decreased relatively slowly in former Jim-Crow states than in non-Jim-Crow states. Even though the 1964 Civil Rights Act dismantled Jim-Crow statutes, racial inequities in TB burden experienced by past generations may still be felt in subsequent generations. Understanding the role of structural racism at the intersection of science and medicine shows the complex ways historical laws, such as Jim-Crow laws, continue to negatively impact health outcomes and warn of future dangers, such as COVID-19, to avoid.

DSM Quality Assessment of GF-7 Satellite

Abstract. The Gaofen-7 (GF-7) satellite was launched on November 3, 2019. It can achieve 1:10000 scale stereo mapping and serve the application needs of basic surveying and mapping, natural resources monitoring and geographic information resource construction. These application rely on high-precision digital surface model (DSM) products as data support. Therefore, it is of great significance to analyze the quality of DSM products produced by Gaofen-7. This paper uses GF-7 optical stereo images from the regions of Zhaodong and Tianjin in China to extract DSMs. And the difference DSM is produced by subtracting the 0.5m resolution aerial reference DEM and the 30m resolution COP30 product in the same area. The quality of DSM products is evaluated by comparing and analyzing the difference DSM. The results show that when the DSM produced by the GF-7 satellite uses the aerial DEM as a reference, the elevation accuracy can reach 0.97 m in the Zhaodong area and 1.54 m in the Tianjin area, and the details of the objects are well depicted; when the COP30 product is used as a reference, the elevation positioning accuracy can reach 1.29 m in the Zhaodong area and 2.42 m in the Tianjin area, which can correctly show the overall situation of the surface objects. Among them, the elevation accuracy in the Tianjin area is relatively poor, mainly because there are many water areas and buildings in this area, and the COP30 product has data missing in this area, which affects the accuracy. In general, the quality of the DSM products generated by the GF-7 satellite is good. Through effective ground control and further processing, the DSM products can fully meet the needs of practical applications such as 1:10000 scale mapping.

Algorithms for the identification of prevalent diabetes in the All of Us Research Program validated using polygenic scores

The All of Us Research Program (AoU) is an initiative designed to gather a comprehensive and diverse dataset from at least one million individuals across the USA. This longitudinal cohort study aims to advance research by providing a rich resource of genetic and phenotypic information, enabling powerful studies on the epidemiology and genetics of human diseases. One critical challenge to maximizing its use is the development of accurate algorithms that can efficiently and accurately identify well-defined disease and disease-free participants for case-control studies. This study aimed to develop and validate type 1 (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) algorithms in the AoU cohort, using electronic health record (EHR) and survey data. Building on existing algorithms and using diagnosis codes, medications, laboratory results, and survey data, we developed and implemented algorithms for identifying prevalent cases of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The first set of algorithms used only EHR data (EHR-only), and the second set used a combination of EHR and survey data (EHR+). A universal algorithm was also developed to identify individuals without diabetes. The performance of each algorithm was evaluated by testing its association with polygenic scores (PSs) for type 1 and type 2 diabetes. We demonstrated the feasibility and utility of using AoU EHR and survey data to employ diabetes algorithms. For T1D, the EHR-only algorithm showed a stronger association with T1D-PS compared to the EHR + algorithm (DeLong p-value = 3 × 10−5). For T2D, the EHR + algorithm outperformed both the EHR-only and the existing T2D definition provided in the AoU Phenotyping Library (DeLong p-values = 0.03 and 1 × 10−4, respectively), identifying 25.79% and 22.57% more cases, respectively, and providing an improved association with T2D PS. We provide a new validated type 1 diabetes definition and an improved type 2 diabetes definition in AoU, which are freely available for diabetes research in the AoU. These algorithms ensure consistency of diabetes definitions in the cohort, facilitating high-quality diabetes research.

Ask Your Relative: A mixed method analysis of the Sexual Health and Healthy Relationship Q&As submitted by American Indian Alaska Native young adults

BackgroundDisparities in sexual health outcomes persist among American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) youth due to intersectional challenges accessing youth-friendly health services. AIAN youth have an increased prevalence of STIs and teen pregnancy. To address disparities in sexual health outcomes, the Ask Auntie/Ask Your Relative (AYR) Q&A service has been used by AIAN youth and young adults for over seven years as a trusted resource for information on sensitive health topics. There is a continued need to better understand the health-seeking behaviors of AIAN youth, especially those related to healthy relationships and sexual health, to improve the alignment of health resources to their needs.MethodsThis mixed-method study began with two phases. Phase 1 involved an analysis of all AYR data using Google Analytics and basic frequency counts. Phase 2 reviewed all questions and answers related to sexual health and healthy relationships (N = 240) using thematic analysis, NVivo 12.0, and intersectionality, guided by the social determinants of health. All AYR answers were coded based on type, name/location, number of times viewed, and examples. The final step of the analytic process was to utilize an intersectional approach and socioecological model (Individual, Community, Tribe/Nation, and World) to create a visual model with results.ResultsPhase 1—Since We R Native began tracking AYR data, the service has been utilized by 2.37 M users, with 1.16 M unique pageviews. The average time on the page was 4 min and 46 s. The number of AYR questions submitted varied by year, and were most frequent in 2016, then decreased in subsequent years. In Phase 2, the main themes identified in AYR questions were (1) Reaching Out for Help, (2) Identity and Physical Development, and (3) Healthy Relationships. Analysis of the Q&A answers identified 244 resources, and of these, 100 were Native-specific. The context-specific resources represented 21 uniquely coded health topics, ranging from women's health to behavioral health.ConclusionsThe broad range of healthy relationship and sexual health questions submitted to the AYR service reflects the types of health information that AIAN young adults want to know about. Resources provided in response to their questions connected Q&A viewers to a wide variety of organizations and programs designed to support AIAN young adults in their health and wellness journey. Findings from this study may be useful for creating additional culturally tailored resources.

Информационная гигиена как фактор успешной профессиональной деятельности сотрудников уголовно-исполнительной системы

The article examines the issues of information hygiene as a factor of successful professional activity of employees of the penal correction system in the context of digital transformation. The insufficiency of research on information hygiene in the psychology of professional activity of specialists is emphasized. Information (digital) hygiene is a certain set of norms and rules that ensure optimal interaction with information of various kinds, which, in turn, ensures the preservation of professional health, personal resources, professional and personal identity and is one of the factors of success of professional activity in the context of digital transformation. Recommendations on the observance of information hygiene in the official activities of employees of the penitentiary system are given. The directions of the official activity of employees of the penal enforcement system in which the use of information hygiene is significant are highlighted: interaction with various information tools and software service products; organization of interdepartmental electronic interaction with law enforcement agencies and other federal executive authorities; information support for the activities of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia; information security and protection of information resources of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia; implementation of various projects of digital transformation of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia. Two approaches are proposed in training to improve the level of development of digital hygiene by employees of the penitentiary system: within the framework of higher and additional professional education. Considering information hygiene as a complex professionally important quality and a factor of successful performance of employees of the penal enforcement system, it is quite natural that these aspects can serve as the basis for taking into account and developing criteria for the success of professional activity in the future, an expanded description and characterization of generalized labor functions of professional standards by position, clarification of occupational and psychograms, optimization of procedures for professional selection and professional certification of employees of the penitentiary system in the dynamics of the professional path.

Detection of Traffic Anomalies Based on Their Frame Wavelet Transformations Processing

Relevance. The active transition to a massive digital infrastructure based on Internet of Things (IoT) technology has brought telecommunications networks to the level of dominant information resources. The one-time increase in the number of existing Internet services is inextricably linked to the growing variety of network anomalies on telecommunications equipment. In turn, existing methods of detecting network threats do not allow timely assessment of network traffic, which is characterized by a large number of parameters, and the detected anomalies from external interference do not have pronounced patterns. The purpose of the study is to increase the efficiency of detecting traffic anomalies based on the results of processing its frame wavelet transform. The scientific task is to develop scientific and methodological approaches that allow effective analysis and timely detection of anomalies in network traffic. A comparative review of search methods for detecting network traffic anomalies, algorithms for detecting uncontrolled anomalies, traffic analysis methods based on local emission factor, binary trees, optical emission spectroscopy. Decision. The results of the study of the possibility of detecting anomalies in the bitstream traffic based on the results of its multiple-variable transformation in the Haar wavelet basis are considered. The choice for further processing of the coefficients of the traffic decomposition matrix along the time shift variable is justified. It is proved that multiple-scale transformations not only increase the structural differences in traffic, but also open up the possibility of localization of anomalies that caused these differences. The scientific novelty of the work is determined by the author's approach to detecting network traffic anomalies during the transition from the direct representation of a signal in the form of its discrete samples to coefficients formed from the matrices of its wavelet transformations, and, as a result, increasing its contrast with other signals with a similar structure. Theoretical significance. The necessity and sufficiency of using wavelet coefficients instead of time samples of signals in the basis of the parent wavelet from the matrix of the generated frame is proved. The relationship between the Hurst indicators and the coefficients of the cross-correlation functions has been established. Practical significance. The results obtained in the work, in the future, can be used in the construction of models for evaluating network traffic in conditions of deliberate, as well as methods for searching and synthesizing effective methods of protection against them.

Cloud Network Collaborative SFC Deployment Under Heterogeneous Resource Of Power White Box Network

The construction of new electric power systems has led to a multiplication in the number of access nodes for electric power IoT information communication, accompanied by a deepening trend in business cloudification. However, due to the insufficient resource linkage and regulation capabilities of the electric power communication network on the cloud side, network side, and edge side, coupled with the lack of a convenient and unified cloud-network resource convergence and control mechanism, the existing electric power communication architecture is gradually finding it difficult to fully meet the demand for deterministic multi-service bearer. Therefore, it is necessary to evolve the original network equipment within the network toward a white box model, opening up interfaces for fine-grained sensing and full-area control, in order to provide more accurate and controllable network transmission services. In this paper, we first propose a cloud-network cooperative resource scheduling architecture for the electric power white box network. This architecture establishes a bearer network to achieve high consistency and cooperativeness of cloud-side end computing power through white box switches, uniformly schedules the global resources of the cloud-network convergence network, and improves the network service quality between cloud-side and side-side. Furthermore, we design a multi-dimensional re-source scheduling method for cloud-network synergy in the electric power white box network. This involves constructing a white box network virtualized heterogeneous resource (VHR) model and a heterogeneous resource control flow (HRCF) model. We transform the problem of merged deployment of service function chains (SFCs) into an SFC merger deployment problem by jointly controlling heterogeneous information, communication, storage, and arithmetic resources, along with the white box switch-specific pipelining resources in the white box network. We then carry out merger optimization of the same kind of function chains. Additionally, we propose a G-GS algorithm based on heuristic methods. Simulation results demonstrate that the method presented in this paper can significantly reduce the cost consumption of white box pipeline resources in the electric power white box network, thereby reducing the processing delay of SFC and improving the quality of electric power service bearing.

Visibility of Russian university journals in the systems of national and international scientific and technical information

Current limitations of access to some international journal platforms and bibliographic systems for Russian researchers result in increased role of national journals for communication and knowledge spreading both at domestic and international levels. Consequently, correct information on Russian journals indexation in various bibliographic systems including underestimated open access databases seems to be topical. The analyzed sample includes journals published by Russian universities as the less studied ones compared to serials published by research institutes. We studied journals published by three types of Russian universities, i.e. Federal, National Research and Basic. Rapid increase in the number of new journals in recent years is demonstrated caused by financial support under different programs. Indexing of journals in Web of Science, Scopus, Dimensions and Lens was studied over a period of 2018–2022. In the Dimensions and Lens we also studied the completeness of indexing as these databases index content using other approaches as compared to Web of Science and Scopus. A share of journals indexed by authoritative Russian journal lists Russian Science Citation Index and White List was revealed. The best positions were detected among journals published by National Research universities. However, Basic universities demonstrate positive growth, as well. The obtained results enabled us to conclude that journals published by Russian universities can be regarded as significant strategic information resource for representing Russian research results to international community.

Manajemen Perpustakaan Sekolah/Madrasah: Strategi, Tantangan, dan Implementasi Teknologi

Library management is a crucial aspect to ensure efficient and effective access to information resources for users. It involves planning, organizing, directing, and controlling the library's information resources, including collections, staff, budget, and information technology. The main objective of library management is to support and enhance learning, research, and knowledge development by providing high-quality and relevant information services. The principles of library management include planning, organizing, leadership, control, collection development, user services, and technology utilization. Libraries play a significant role in supporting the learning process in schools and madrasas by providing various learning resources, facilitating independent learning, enhancing information literacy, supporting student research and projects, promoting a reading culture, collaborating with teachers, providing access to digital resources, and offering reference and consultation services. Collection development is a critical aspect of library management, involving the systematic selection and acquisition of library materials based on user needs, curriculum relevance, and the latest developments in various fields of knowledge. The maintenance and preservation of library collections are also essential to ensure their longevity and accessibility. Effective library management strategies, including the development, maintenance, and preservation of collections, are vital to providing diverse and high-quality resources that support learning, research, and knowledge development in educational environments.

Survey of state animal health officials reveals lack of personnel and resources to manage equine infectious disease outbreaks.

The purpose of the study was to assess the challenges faced by state animal health officials (SAHOs) when managing equine disease outbreaks. A survey was conducted to assess SAHOs' collaboration with horse owners and practicing veterinarians to provide biosecurity and infection disease control. It was sent to 180 email addresses listed in the Equine Disease Communication Center website database. The responses in each category for each question were tabulated and reported as a percentage. There were 72 survey responses from 45 states. The number of states responding suggested that the results represent SAHOs' current opinions. Fifty percent of responders identified the lack of resources and training for equine health management and equine reportable disease prevention and control. There is a lack of owner compliance in managing disease outbreaks, and boarding stables, horse shows, and racing facilities require the most resources for outbreak management. The survey indicated on-site communication as the most effective for managing an outbreak, and the Equine Disease Communication Center is to be a valued resource for alerts and disease information. At the state level, there is a lack of needed personnel and resources to effectively manage an equine infectious disease outbreak. Furthermore, failure of veterinary and owner compliance in reporting and managing equine infectious diseases allows disease spread. Lack of sufficient resources for management of reportable diseases will potentially result in disease spread with a negative impact on horse health and the equine industry.

Vocapedia Reborn: A True Wiki Resource for Voice Teachers

Abstract: Vocapedia is NATS’ online information resource. In existence since 2014, Vocapedia has recently undergone a transformation into a true wiki format. In this article, the author reviews the history of Vocapedia, discusses its new format, and urges voice teachers, collaborative pianists, choral directors, speech language pathologists, voice researchers, and others who enjoy and study the voice to contribute to the resource and to refine and update its content.

Do women have a choice when it comes to fetal monitoring? Perceptions of information provided and choice of fetal monitoring in Australia: A national survey

IntroIn Australia, little research has examined how women and people participate in decision-making about types of fetal monitoring, or their perceptions of information provided by caregivers. MethodsA national cross-sectional survey, the ‘Women’s experiences Of Monitoring Baby’ (WOMB) Study, explored women’s experiences of intrapartum fetal monitoring. This study reports on selected results. ResultsThere were 861 responses. Of respondents, 20 % reported receiving enough information about types of fetal monitoring from care providers and childbirth education, 35 % recalled being asked for consent, and 34 % were unaware they had a choice in monitoring. Most women (86 %) obtained information via ‘other’ sources or own reading, and where monitoring was discussed, it was most likely a ‘brief discussion’ with a midwife (43 %).Women who were monitored via wired CTG (35 %) were more likely to report facing barriers to choosing their preferred monitoring type, (p<0.001). Wired CTG was significantly associated with hospital type and primiparity and 70 % indicated they would not choose it again (p<0.001). ConclusionWomen did not know they had a choice in the type of intrapartum monitoring received, and felt they had insufficient information to make informed decisions. While monitoring via intermittent doppler and wireless CTG was preferred, women experienced barriers to receiving these, especially in public hospitals in rural/regional areas and private metropolitan hospitals. Antenatal models of care and childbirth education are underutilised avenues for providing information however, it is incumbent on maternity systems to provide adequate information resources, access to equipment and appropriate models of woman-centred and humane care.

Understanding caregivers' needs: supporting families of autistic children

Parenting a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) poses significant emotional, financial, and social challenges to caregivers. This paper examines the experiences of caregivers, highlighting their increased stress, burnout, and mental health concerns. The importance of accessible information resources, respite care services, emotional support networks, and financial assistance programs is emphasized. Effective strategies for supporting caregivers include educating them about ASD symptoms, treatments, and therapies, teaching coping mechanisms for managing challenging behaviors, and promoting collaboration between healthcare providers and caregivers. Policy implications are discussed, including advocating for legislative modifications that prioritize caregiver needs, promoting inclusionary practices within educational systems, and increasing funding for early intervention programs and caregiver support services. The implementation of parent training programs, collaborative relationships between educators and caregivers, and professional development opportunities for educators are also recommended. This study aims to inform policymakers, healthcare professionals, and educators about the critical role of caregiver support in improving outcomes for children with ASD. By addressing caregiver needs and providing comprehensive support, we can enhance the well-being of both caregivers and children with ASD.

Healing Through Dialogue: Exploring Culturally Sensitive Physician-Patient Communication in Urban and Peri-urban Minna, Nigeria, for Addressing Postpartum Depression

The research was on physician-patient communication. Specifically, the study investigated the communication relationship between physicians and mothers experiencing postpartum depression (PPD) in urban and peri-urban areas of Minna, Nigeria. The study aimed to understand the nature of communication strategies used by physicians, their effectiveness in aiding recovery, and the challenges hindering effective communication. The study fills a research niche on how different forms of communication with patients influence the recovery of postpartum depressed mothers in Minna, Nigeria, and how healthcare professionals may need to promote culture-sensitive communication. The study was anchored on the patient-centered care model. In-depth interviews (IDI) and focus group discussions (FGD) were adopted as the primary research methods. The study had a total of 204 respondents, 196 nulliparous, primiparous, and multiparous women with PPD for FGD, and 8 medical experts for in-depth interviews. Findings showed that empathy and informal interactions were used as mothers responded positively to physicians who addressed them with a smile, concern, and active listening. Further findings revealed that effective communication led to better outcomes. Participants felt that open-ended questions, patient involvement in treatment plans, and emotional expressions encouraged by physicians led to improved well-being. The basis for the measurement of effective communication for improved health outcomes was measured through self-reported improvements from the mother. Also, cultural sensitivity, utilisation of interpreters, and readily available information resources in hospitals were identified as crucial for addressing communication and cultural barriers. The researcher concluded that physician communication style significantly impacts PPD recovery and, therefore, recommended that healthcare institutions should create supportive environments and train professionals in cultural sensitivity. Dedicated resources like information desks and support groups can empower mothers with PPD. The implications of the study highlight the importance of communication in PPD treatment and suggest actionable strategies for healthcare institutions to improve their interaction with mothers experiencing this critical mental health condition in Minna and similar settings.

A Methodological Framework for High-Resolution Surface Urban Heat Island Mapping: Integration of UAS Remote Sensing, GIS, and the Local Climate Zoning Concept

The urban heat island effect (UHI) is among the major challenges of urban climate, which is continuously intensifying its impact on urban life and functioning. Against the backdrop of increasingly prolonged heatwaves observed in recent years, practical questions about adaptation measures in cities are growing—questions that traditional meteorological monitoring can hardly answer adequately. On the other hand, UHI has long been the focus of research interest, but due to the technological complexity of providing accurate spatially referenced data at high spatial resolution and the requirement to survey at strictly defined parts of the day, information provision is becoming a major challenge. This is one of the main reasons why UHI research results are less often used directly in urban spatial planning. However, advances in geospatial technologies, including unmanned aerial systems (UASs), are providing more and more reliable tools that can be applied to achieve better and higher-quality information resources that adequately characterize the UHI phenomenon. This paper presents a developed and tested methodology for the rapid and efficient assessment and mapping of the effects of surface urban heat island (SUHI). It is entirely based on the integrated use of data from unmanned aerial systems (UAS)-based remote sensing methods, including thermal photogrammetry and GIS-based analysis methods. The study follows the understanding that correct SUHI research depends on a proper understanding of the urban geosystem, its spatial and structural heterogeneity, and its functional systems, which in turn can only be achieved by supporting the research process with accurate and reliable information resources. In this regard, the possibilities offered by the proposed methodological scheme for efficient geospatial registration of SUHI variations at the microscale, including the calculation of intra-urban SUHI intensity, are discussed in detail. The methodology builds on classical approaches for using local climate zoning (LCZ), adding capabilities for precise delineation of individual zone types and for geostatistical characterization of the urban surface heat island (SUHI). Finally, the proposed scheme is based on state-of-the-art technological tools that provide flexible and automated capabilities to investigate the phenomenon at microscales, including by enabling flexible observation of its dynamics in terms of heat wave manifestation and evolution. Results are presented from a series of sequential tests conducted on the largest residential area in Bulgaria’s capital city, Sofia, in terms of area and population, over a relatively long period from 2021 to 2024.