Support Services Research Articles

Organisational Dynamics of University Social Capital: Developing Constructs Through Factor Analysis

<p style="text-align:justify">This study is designed to illuminate the role of four key constructs—teacher-student relationships, peer networks, satisfaction with support services, and employability trust—in shaping the social capital within universities. Utilising a sample of 1902 working students derived from the Eurostudent VII survey data, this research applies both exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis to validate the proposed model. The findings indicate that all four constructs demonstrate statistically significant and positive associations with university social capital. Crucially, the measures of reliability and validity are within an acceptable range, lending credibility to the findings. The teacher-student relationship was found to be the most influential factor, highlighting its crucial value in the functioning of social capital inside universities. Along with providing a framework for future studies on the ever-changing nature of social capital in universities, the results highlight the significance of cultivating an interconnected academic community, which enriches the educational organisation as a whole.</p>

The Concerns of Community-Dwelling Older Women Living with Urinary Incontinence: Qualitative Research.

The world including Iran is facing population aging. Urinary incontinence (UI) is one of the most common health concerns of older women that can be accompanied by an increased sense of loneliness, social restrictions, and disruption in activities of daily living in addition to the regular challenges of old age. This study was aimed at explaining the concerns of community-dwelling older women living with UI. This study used the conventional, qualitative, content analysis approach with purposive sampling. Twenty interviews were conducted with 18 participants, including 15 community-dwelling older women with UI and three family members (a husband and two daughters), over the span of 14months (from August 2021 to October 2022). The data were collected via semi-structured, face-to-face interviews until data saturation was achieved, and were analyzed using Graneheim and Lundman's method. The findings revealed that the concerns of older women with UI include the impasse of UI, being powerless in life, distorted social identity, and marital frustration, which fell under the main theme of sense of inadequacy. Recognizing the concerns of older women with UI can make health care teams more sensitive to the importance of resolving these concerns and can offer some insight into how best to provide targeted training, support, and counseling services at individual, family, and society levels, to eventually resolve the older adult's sense of inadequacy.

Psychosocial Experiences of Spanish-Speaking Parents of Children With Craniofacial Microsomia.

Craniofacial microsomia (CFM) and microtia psychosocial research in the US is primarily with English-speaking participants. Given that 19% of the US is Latino, and there is a higher prevalence of CFM in Latino populations, this study aims to describe psychosocial experiences related to CFM among Spanish-speaking Latino caregivers to better inform health care. Narrative interviews (mean 73±17min) were completed in Spanish with parents of children with CFM aged 3 to 17 (mean age 10.8±4.8years). Transcripts were analyzed using quantitative linguistic analyses and reflexive thematic analysis. Participants (N=12) were mostly mothers (83%) who had immigrated to the US and had low socioeconomic status. Based upon analysis of grouped word counts, participants spent approximately half of their narratives discussing the first two years of their child's life. Themes selected based on US Latino sociodemographics and cultural values included the Impact of Language, Healthcare Challenges, Supportive Healthcare Experiences, Caregiver Coping with CFM, Family Roles, and Addressing Social Implications of CFM. Results highlighted that the first years of care are of critical importance to parents and suggest this is an optimal time to focus on education and support services for families. Additional treatment suggestions include providing interpretation and informational materials in Spanish, addressing care barriers, supporting familial and child coping, accounting for the role of extended family, and helping address social concerns. Ongoing research with Latino families can further assist in guiding culturally sensitive CFM health care.

Assisted Versus Unassisted Domiciliary Alcohol Detoxification: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Detoxification stands as a crucial phase in the treatment of alcohol use disorders (AUD), yet only limited data is available on the outcomes of home-based detoxification. Assisted domiciliary detoxification involves monitoring an individual’s withdrawal progress, while offering psychosocial support and detoxification services in the comfort of their home. Aim: To study outcomes of assisted over routine domiciliary alcohol detoxification in randomized controlled trials. Methodology: 100 consenting male patients who were advised of domiciliary detoxification were randomized into intervention ( n = 49) and control ( n = 51) groups. A predesigned semi-structured questionnaire was used to assess the socio-demographic and drinking-related variables. Both groups received routine care for alcohol withdrawal from respective treating doctors. Additionally, the intervention group received two sessions of brief intervention for alcohol and daily phone call assistance. Records were kept for adverse events. Phone calls were discontinued once detoxification was completed. Outcomes were measured for successful completion of detoxification and abstention from alcohol at the end of one month. Results: The intervention group had significantly higher successful detoxification rates (85.7% vs. 62.7%, p = .008) and significantly higher abstinence days at the end of one month compared to the control group (22 vs. 10 days, p < .001) with an effect size of 1.2 (confidence interval (CI) 0.69–1.53). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that receiving assistance in the acute phase of domiciliary detoxification helps in a successful detoxification and achieving a significant level of abstinence at the end of one month compared to the control group.

Post-Proceedings Support in a Family Drug and Alcohol Court

Abstract This article presents the findings from an evaluation of post-proceedings support (PPS) within Gloucestershire Family Drug and Alcohol Court (FDAC). PPS is offered to parents in the year immediately following a completed FDAC hearing. The article provides background on the formation and development of FDACs across England and FDAC evaluations, before detailing the specific delivery model in use in Gloucestershire. The evaluation that took place March 2020–July 2022 examined the delivery, effectiveness and impact of the support services provided to families after legal proceedings concerning child welfare due to parental substance misuse. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study analysed quantitative data to assess outcomes such as parental cessation of substance misuse and family reunification, alongside qualitative insights through interviews exploring families' and professionals' perceptions and experiences. This evaluation sheds light on the strengths and limitations of this post-proceeding offer. It examines the extent to which the services can be said to contribute to sustainable recovery for parents and whether the model is transferable to other FDACs. It highlights the importance of continuing support for families and may provide ‘conceptual’ transferability and insights that will be relevant to other FDACs and beyond into children’s and families’ social work.

A bridge between worlds: Embedding research in telepractice co‐design with disability community

AbstractIntroductionCo‐production approaches are increasingly being advocated for as a way of addressing the research translatory gap while including patient and public involvement in development of services they access, and particularly in disability service provision. Embedded research (ER) is a method which integrates the researcher within the target organization to better facilitate both co‐production of research outputs and the reduction of the research translation gap. The aim of this reflection is to better understand the commonalities and differences between ER in a disability context to accounts published in academic literature.MethodA review of embedded researcher literature was completed in combination with a personal reflection of lived experience as an embedded researcher within a disability support service organization. The reflective process included review of research journal entries and other records of lived experience (photographs, audio recordings, drawings) maintained throughout the period in the role of embedded researcher. A reflexive thematic analysis process was used.ResultsI reflect throughout the article upon five themes which highlight both the commonalities between my experiences and those of other embedded researchers as well as instances where they differed. The five themes include (1) A knowledge bridge, (2) Considerations of positionality, (3) Ethical complexity, (4) Anticipating change, and (5) Existing in the in‐between together.ConclusionExperiences of ER appear to transcend the discipline in which the research is being embedded, and while the lived experience in a disability host organization was invaluable in facilitating a successful co‐produced research project, significant avenues for improvement exist in terms of ethical frameworks, methodological guidance, and communities of support.

Connecting unstably housed veterans living in rural areas to health care: Perspectives from Health Care Navigators.

To understand existing care practices and policies, and potential enhancements, to improve the effectiveness of the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) Health Care Navigators (HCN) in linking Veterans experiencing housing instability in rural areas with health care services. We used primary data collected during semistructured interviews with HCNs (n = 21) serving rural areas across the United States during Spring 2022. We applied the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) 2009 and the Social Ecological Model (SEM) to the collection and analysis of qualitative data to understand how HCNs administer services within SSVF and the larger community. We used rapid qualitative methods to summarize and analyze data. Templated matrix summaries identified facilitators and barriers to linking Veterans with health care services and policy and practice implications. Using CFIR 2009, we identified contextual factors affecting successful implementation of HCN services within SSVF; we offer a crosswalk between CFIR 2009 and the version updated in 2022. Framing facilitators and barriers within the SEM provided insight into whether implementation strategies should be addressed at a community, interpersonal, or intrapersonal level within the SEM. Facilitators included sufficient knowledge, training, and mentorship opportunities for HCNs and their capacity to collaborate within their organization and with other community-based organizations. Barriers included lack of local technology and housing resources, inadequate understanding of Veterans' service eligibilities and pathways to access those services, and deficient collaboration with the VA. Understanding facilitators and barriers experienced by HCN when linking unstably housed Veterans in rural areas with health care services can inform future strategies, including policy changes such as increased training to support HCNs' understanding of eligibility, benefits, and entitlements as well as improving communication and collaboration between VA and community partners.

Community Engagement in Vaccination Promotion: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Community engagement plays a vital role in global immunization strategies, offering the potential to overcome vaccination hesitancy and enhance vaccination confidence. Although there is significant backing for community engagement in health promotion, the evidence supporting its effectiveness in vaccination promotion is fragmented and of uncertain quality. This review aims to systematically examine the effectiveness of different contents and extent of community engagement for promoting vaccination rates. This study was performed in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. A comprehensive and exhaustive literature search was performed in 4 English databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library) and 2 Chinese databases (CNKI and Wan Fang) to identify all possible articles. Original research articles applying an experimental study design that investigated the effectiveness of community engagement in vaccination promotion were eligible for inclusion. Two reviewers independently performed the literature search, study selection, quality assessment, and data extraction. Discrepancies were resolved through discussion, with the arbitration of a third reviewer where necessary. A total of 20 articles out of 11,404 records from 2006 to 2021 were retrieved. The studies used various designs: 12 applied single-group pre-post study designs, 5 were cluster randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and 3 were non-RCTs. These studies targeted multiple vaccines, with 8 focusing on children's immunization, 8 on human papillomavirus vaccine, 3 on hepatitis B virus vaccine, and 1 on COVID-19 vaccine. The meta-analysis revealed significant increases in vaccination rates both in pre-post comparison (rate difference [RD] 0.34, 95% CI 0.21-0.47, I2=99.9%, P<.001) and between-group comparison (RD 0.18, 95% CI 0.07-0.29, I2=98.4%, P<.001). The meta-analysis revealed that participant recruitment had the largest effect size (RD 0.51, 95% CI 0.36-0.67, I2=99.9%, P<.001), followed by intervention development (RD 0.36, 95% CI 0.23-0.50, I2=100.0%, P<.001), intervention implementation (RD 0.35, 95% CI 0.22-0.47, I2=99.8%, P<.001), and data collection (RD 0.34, 95% CI 0.19-0.50, I2=99.8%, P<.001). The meta-analysis indicated that high community engagement extent yielded the largest effect size (RD 0.49, 95% CI 0.17-0.82, I2=100.0%, P<.001), followed by moderate community engagement extent (RD 0.45, 95% CI 0.33-0.58, I2=99.6%, P<.001) and low community engagement extent (RD 0.15, 95% CI 0.05-0.25, I2=99.2%, P<.001). The meta-analysis revealed that "health service support" demonstrated the largest effect sizes (RD 0.45, 95% CI 0.25-0.65, I2=99.9%, P<.001), followed by "health education and discussion" (RD 0.39, 95% CI 0.20-0.58, I2=99.7%, P<.001), "follow-up and reminder" (RD 0.33, 95% CI 0.23-0.42, I2=99.3%, P<.001), and "social marketing campaigns and community mobilization" (RD 0.24, 95% CI 0.06-0.41, I2=99.9%, P<.001). The results of this meta-analysis supported the effectiveness of community engagement in vaccination promotion with variations in terms of engagement contents and extent. Community engagement required a "fit-for-purpose" approach rather than a "one-size-fits-all" approach to maximize the effectiveness of vaccine promotion. PROSPERO CRD42022339081; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=339081.

Public Awareness Campaigns and Their Impact on Youth Gambling in Tanzania: A Case Study of Gallapo Ward in Manyara Region

Youth gambling is a growing concern in Tanzania, with significant participation rates among young people. Public awareness campaigns have been identified as a potential strategy to reduce youth gambling behaviors by educating them about the risks associated with gambling and promoting responsible behaviors. This study aimed to assess the impact of public awareness campaigns on reducing youth gambling in Gallapo Ward, Manyara Region, Tanzania.A mixed-methods approach was employed, including both qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis methods. A sample size of 75 youth who had participated in gambling activities was selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, while qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis.The findings revealed that public awareness campaigns had a significant impact on increasing awareness of legal age restrictions for gambling and improving understanding of gambling risks among youth. The campaigns also helped reduce peer pressure related to gambling and influenced youth to resist negative influences. Moreover, there was a strong belief among respondents that public awareness campaigns could contribute to a decrease in youth gambling rates.Based on the study findings, it is recommended to continue investing in and expanding public awareness campaigns focused on educating youth about responsible gambling practices. Tailored educational programs and support services should be developed to address specific knowledge gaps and behavioral patterns related to gambling among youth. Collaborative efforts involving various stakeholders are crucial for the success of these interventions.Overall, the study emphasizes the importance of public awareness campaigns in promoting responsible gambling behaviors and advocating for policy measures to safeguard youth from the harms of gambling. These findings provide valuable insights for stakeholders and policymakers working towards reducing youth gambling impact in Tanzania.

Experiences of the family caregivers of persons with schizophrenia in north Indian region: A qualitative inquiry

IntroductionFamily caregivers with schizophrenia struggle with psychological, social, and other challenges due to stigma, lack of adequate information, and maladaptive coping strategies. We aimed to explore the experiences of caregivers of persons with schizophrenia (PwS) to comprehend the emotional challenges and other burdens and coping strategies utilized. MethodsWe subscribed to a phenomenological approach and interviewed nine caregivers in-depth. Audio-recorded interviews were transcribed and translated from Hindi to English. Thematic analysis was performed using the seven-step Colaizzi's method. ATLAS.ti.22 was used for the analysis of the data. ResultsFive themes emerged from the data: 1) general understanding of schizophrenia, 2) emotional burden, 3) Disruption in personal and socio-occupational life, 4) challenges in caregiving, and 5) coping strategies. Caregiving adversely affected the quality of life socially and financially. Schizophrenia stigmatized families, trapped them in their homes, and left them no choice but to get support from informal networks. Also, caregivers experienced a lack of healthcare facilities in the vicinity and reported a substandard level of formal care. ConclusionGiving care to PwS entails financial, social, emotional, and physical burden. Feelings of frustration, helplessness, uncertainty, and loss are common. Transformation of personal, professional, and social life are usual consequence of caregiving. Generally, caregivers cope through addictions or spiritual means. Significant perceived requirements include a lack of knowledge about the condition and how to manage it as well as inadequate support services. Emotional and financial support and community support services near home may ease the burden of caregiving for PwS.

Stress, anxiety, depression and sleep disturbance among healthcare professional during the COVID-19 pandemic: An umbrella review of 72 meta-analyses

The outbreak of SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19, has significantly impacted the psychological and physical health of a wide range of individuals, including healthcare professionals (HCPs). This umbrella review aims provide a quantitative summary of meta-analyses that have investigated the prevalence of stress, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance among HCPs during the COVID-19 pandemic. An umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses reviews was conducted. The search was performed using the EMBASE, PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar databases from 01st January 2020 to 15th January 2024. A random-effects model was then used to estimate prevalence with a 95% confidence interval. Subgroup analysis and sensitivity analyses were then conducted to explore the heterogeneity of the sample. Seventy-two meta-analyses involved 2,308 primary studies were included after a full-text review. The umbrella review revealed that the pooled prevalence of stress, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance among HCPs during the COVID-19 pandemic was 37% (95% CI 32.87–41.22), 31.8% (95% CI 29.2–34.61) 29.4% (95% CI 27.13–31.84) 36.9% (95% CI 33.78–40.05) respectively. In subgroup analyses the prevalence of anxiety and depression was higher among nurses than among physicians. Evidence from this umbrella review suggested that a significant proportion of HCPs experienced stress, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance during the COVID-19 pandemic. This information will support authorities when implementing specific interventions that address mental health problems among HCPs during future pandemics or any other health crises. Such interventions may include the provision of mental health support services, such as counseling and peer support programs, as well as the implementation of organizational strategies to reduce workplace stressors.

Architecture from an Alternative Power

In a revolution, governors can no longer govern, and the governed refuse to be so. In this sense, the experience of the Portuguese Local Support Service (Serviço de Apoio Ambulatório Local—SAAL) epitomizes the national revolution of 1974–5, allowing poor city workers to reclaim the right to housing and the city. This essay discusses the Catujal Workers Estate, built in this context, in Loures (Lisbon Region) with a plan by the brigade led by architect Francisco Pires Keil do Amaral. Most information is derived from the reports and drawings of the original SAAL intervention, with the aim of presenting an observation of this case and trying to highlight the process of cooperation that linked those designing the habitat with those who were to live in it.

Expatriate academics’ adjustment experience at a higher education institution in South Africa

Orientation: Expatriate academics in higher education institutions (HEIs) face several socio-cultural and integration challenges that significantly influence their adjustment. Insufficient support and a non-conducive environment hamper their well-being.Research purpose: This study aims to describe the adjustment experiences of expatriate academics at a HEI in South Africa. Recommendations are made towards creating an enabling environment in which expatriate academics can better facilitate adjustment.Motivation for the study: This study aimed to compete globally, HEIs appoint international academics with scarce skills to enhance their teaching, learning, and research. Expatriate academics are driven by push and pull factors when accepting international opportunities. Entering an unfamiliar environment, implies disruption on a psychosocial, socio-economic and job adjustment level, and if not well-supported results in maladjustment affecting expatriate well-being and job performance.Research design, approach and method: An interpretive, qualitative approach was adopted. Five purposively selected expatriate academics partook in semi-structured interviews and the data were analysed through content analysis.Main findings: A lack of employer support and cultural diversity factors impede participants’ ability to adjust at work and in the community. Having grit and being resourceful in overcoming challenges resulted in better adjustment.Practical/managerial implications: Facilitating collaborative relationships between expatriates and host country nationals, and using supportive services and resources will enable better adjustment.Contribution/value-add: Expatriate academics share their lived experiences of what hindered their adjustment and several recommendations are made to HEIs and foreign academics towards creating an enabling environment promoting adjustment.

Bridging the Digital Divide: The Role of Online Education in Promoting Equity

This qualitative case study examines the impact of online education in Smith County (a pseudonym), a rural area in the southwestern United States characterized by economic challenges and a large Hispanic population. This study aimed to identify the barriers to and facilitators of educational equity in digital environments. A purposive sampling was utilized to select participants who could provide rich, in-depth insights into the impact of online education within Smith County. In-depth interviews were conducted and focus groups held with students, teachers, and administrators within Smith County. Data analysis was conducted through an iterative process of coding and thematic analysis. The study was informed by the theoretical framework of digital divide and culturally responsive pedagogy. This study delved into the nuanced challenges faced by this community, including technological access, digital literacy, and socio-economic factors. The analysis also explored the pedagogical approaches and support systems that contribute to effective online learning experiences within this rural area. The findings revealed a complex interplay of factors affecting online education engagement and success, highlighting the critical role of tailored support services, culturally responsive teaching, and community partnerships to enhance educational outcomes. The study underscores the importance of understanding local contexts and learner needs in designing and implementing online education programs that specifically address equity. Major conclusions point toward the need for comprehensive strategies that go beyond providing internet access, emphasizing the creation of inclusive, supportive online learning communities. This research contributes to the discourse on educational equity in the digital age, offering insights for educators, policymakers, and online education providers seeking to improve access and outcomes for all learners.

Navigating the road home: Challenges hindering the reintegration of street children with their families in Harare, Zimbabwe

The reintegration of street children with their families in Harare, Zimbabwe, is a significant social issue that is characterised by numerous challenges. Therefore, this research paper aims to identify the challenges that hinder the successful reintegration of street children with their families in Harare, using the bioecological model as a theoretical lens. A qualitative research approach, underpinned by a phenomenological research design, was employed with a purposefully selected sample of ten social development officers who are directly involved in working with street children. Data was obtained through semi-structured interviews conducted with the social development officers. The data was analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed various challenges, such as rejection and discrimination, economic hardship, disintegrated family structures, and lack of trust. Based on the findings, the study recommends the need to strengthen and expand support services that offer counselling, mediation, and practical assistance to families and children to ensure an effective reintegration process. Additionally, the study recommends the implementation of programmes that focus on poverty alleviation and economic empowerment for families. Moreover, social development officers should be capacitated with dispute resolution and cognitive restructuring skills to change the thinking patterns of members of the original families. Developing and prioritising sensitisation programmes to raise awareness about the issues faced by reintegrated street children and their families is also recommended.

The findings of the Disability Royal Commission: the relevance for people with intellectual disabilities in rural areas

People living in rural areas of Australia are significantly disadvantaged, compared to metropolitan dwelling peers, in accessing basic support services. Australians with intellectual disabilities living in rural areas are at specific risk of further disadvantage. This article examines the findings and recommendations of the Disability Royal Commission through the lens of rurality. A frequency analysis of key words relating to rurality indicated an interesting trend in relation to the term “remote” which had a higher count rate than either “regional” or “rural”. This finding may indicate that issues from non-remote rural locations were less well represented. The Final Report included many examples from people with intellectual disabilities or their carers regarding the lack of vital services in rural areas, and specifically highlighted the need to introduce a “provider of last resort”. Problems with support were also identified following domestic violence and rape, and concerns noted regarding the provision of public transport in rural areas. The Final Report contains 222 recommendations, of which 11 contained a specific focus addressing a rural issue, and these are briefly discussed. It is unfortunate that, in some key support areas, there appear to be an implicit expectation that the remaining 200+ recommendations will all apply evenly across Australia, irrespective of location. Nonetheless, the Disability Royal Commission should be commended for their inclusive approach to involving people with disabilities living in rural areas which led to the reporting from rural people with intellectual disabilities and their carers regarding the issues that they have faced.

Fostering Open Data Practices in Research-Performing Organizations

Open data provide the scientific community and other stakeholders with unrestricted access to data. Open data serve as a foundation for reproducing research findings, while also facilitating collaboration and enabling novel discoveries. However, open data practices are still not commonly applied. To contribute to the implementation of open data strategy in academia in Austria and beyond, a collection of local strategies from regional universities and higher education institutions in the Austrian provinces of Styria and Carinthia was compiled through workshop-based discussions between participants from research support service units at research-performing organizations. The collection was further organized into categories based on application time scenarios, target groups, and involved parties, as well as corresponding thematic focus. A strategic guide consisting of various measures has been developed to encourage the adoption of open data practices from an organizational standpoint. Designed for adaptability, it aims to be applicable and modifiable by all interested research and higher education institutions, regardless of their priorities and resources. Our guideline aids research organizations in crafting a tailored strategy to enhance their data dissemination practices, thereby increasing their research visibility and impact.

Seasonal and Spatial Distribution Characteristics of Sepia esculenta in the East China Sea Region: Transfer of the Central Distribution from 29° N to 28° N

The golden cuttlefish (Sepia esculenta) is an important cephalopod species with a lifespan of approximately one year. The species plays a crucial role in marine ecological support services and is commercially valuable in fisheries. In the seas around China, this species has emerged as the main target for cuttlefish fisheries, replacing Sepiella maindroni since the 1990s. Variations in oceanographic conditions associated with global warming could significantly impact the temporal-spatial distribution of the species. In this study, we performed bottom trawling surveys with four cruises during 2018–2019 in the East China Sea region to determine the current resource status and seasonal-spatial variations in S. esculenta. We found that the average individual weight (AIW) values were 4.87 and 519.00 g/ind at stations located at 30.50° N, 124.00° E and 30.50° N, 124.50° E, respectively, with the aggregation of larvae and parent groups in spring. The species was not distributed north of 32.00° N in summer. The catch per unit effort by weight (CPUEw) value decreased in the order of 2772.50→2575.20→503.29→124.36 g/h, corresponding to latitudes of 34.50° N→34.00° N→33.50° N→32.50° N 121.50° E in autumn. The most suitable fishing areas were the south of the East China Sea region in spring; the south of the East China Sea region extending to the center and outer parts of the East China Sea region in summer; the south of the Yellow Sea close to the Haizhou Bay fishing ground and the forbidden fishing line region of the Lusi and Dasha fishing grounds in autumn; and the south and center of the East China Sea region in winter. The most suitable sea bottom temperature (SBT) values from spring to winter were 14.76–20.53 °C, 19.54–22.98 °C, 11.79–17.64 °C, and 16.94–20.36 °C, respectively. The most suitable sea bottom salinity (SBS) values were 31.53–34.80‰ in spring, 32.95–34.68‰ in summer, 31.51–34.77‰ in autumn, and 33.82–34.51‰ in winter. We concluded the following: (1) the southern and northern areas of the East China Sea region are spawning and nursery grounds, respectively, in spring; (2) the central distribution is located at a latitude of 28.00° N in autumn and winter; and (3) the southern area of the Yangtze River to the north is a spawning ground in spring, and the areas located at 29.00–34.50° N, 124.00–124.50° E, and 28.00–30.50° N, 125.50–126.50° E are nursery grounds. The results of this study provide useful guidance for appropriate fisheries management, thereby avoiding a collapse in the S. esculenta population, which has been experienced in other species in this area.

Structural and social changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic and their impact on engagement in substance use disorder treatment services: a qualitative study among people with a recent history of injection drug use in Baltimore, Maryland

BackgroundSubstance use disorder treatment and recovery support services are critical for achieving and maintaining recovery. There are limited data on how structural and social changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic impacted individual-level experiences with substance use disorder treatment-related services among community-based samples of people who inject drugs.MethodsPeople with a recent history of injection drug use who were enrolled in the community-based AIDS Linked to the IntraVenous Experience study in Baltimore, Maryland participated in a one-time, semi-structured interview between July 2021 and February 2022 about their experiences living through the COVID-19 pandemic (n = 28). An iterative inductive coding process was used to identify themes describing how structural and social changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic affected participants’ experiences with substance use disorder treatment-related services.ResultsThe median age of participants was 54 years (range = 24–73); 10 (36%) participants were female, 16 (57%) were non-Hispanic Black, and 8 (29%) were living with HIV. We identified several structural and social changes due the pandemic that acted as barriers and facilitators to individual-level engagement in treatment with medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) and recovery support services (e.g., support group meetings). New take-home methadone flexibility policies temporarily facilitated engagement in MOUD treatment, but other pre-existing rigid policies and practices (e.g., zero-tolerance) were counteracting barriers. Changes in the illicit drug market were both a facilitator and barrier to MOUD treatment. Decreased availability and pandemic-related adaptations to in-person services were a barrier to recovery support services. While telehealth expansion facilitated engagement in recovery support group meetings for some participants, other participants faced digital and technological barriers. These changes in service provision also led to diminished perceived quality of both virtual and in-person recovery support group meetings. However, a facilitator of recovery support was increased accessibility of individual service providers (e.g., counselors and Sponsors).ConclusionsStructural and social changes across several socioecological levels created new barriers and facilitators of individual-level engagement in substance use disorder treatment-related services. Multilevel interventions are needed to improve access to and engagement in high-quality substance use disorder treatment and recovery support services among people who inject drugs.

Enfrentamento do burnout em preceptores e residentes de medicina: explorando estratégias

Burnout syndrome comprises symptoms of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a diminished sense of achievement,associated with stressful work environments. Medical residents and preceptors are at a high risk for the emergence of burnout. This study aimed to review institutional and individual strategies for addressing burnout in this population. It is an integrative review, with data collected from the PubMed database. Among organizational strategies, emphasis is placed on modifying work processes, organizing professional demands, improving communication, encouraging professional development, and establishing support services to prevent and manage burnout. From an individual perspective, healthy habits, spiritual pursuits, dedication to hobbies, meditation, and coping are highlighted. Burnout is an emerging mental health issue in residents and preceptors, necessitating the active involvement of institutions and professionals in the diagnosis and management of this condition.