Perceived Gains of Peer Educators in Campus Learning Centers: Academic Performance and Learning, Non-Academic Skillsets, and Self-Confidence and Fulfillment

This study explored the peer tutor and Supplemental Instruction (SI) Leader experiences in campus learning centers as seen through the perceived gains in three subcategories: 1) academic performance and learning, 2) non-academic skillsets, and 3) self-confidence and fulfillment. The peer tutors and SI Leaders surveyed in this study had experience in one or both of these roles and came from institutions across the nation and from several international institutions. In this quantitative study, participants completed a researcher-created survey. The major findings showed a significant difference in the peer educators’ perceived gains based on their roles, with tutors reporting greater perceived gains. Additionally, the study found that these peer educators perceived the most gains in non-academic skillsets, specifically related to increases in their communication and listening skills as well as skills for future careers. When examining the perceived gains in relation to the role and the length of time in that role, the peer tutor role was found to be significant in all three subcategories, whereas the length of time in that role did not present significant differences. Implications for practice support the need for increased resource allocation, showing that learning centers impact more than the students the peer educators serve

Multi-state open robust design applied to opportunistic data reveals dynamics of wide-ranging taxa: The sperm whale case.

© The Author(s), 2019. This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License. The definitive version was published in Boys, R. M., Oliveira, C., Perez-Jorgeo, S., Prieto, R., Steiner, L., & Silva, M. A. Multi-state open robust design applied to opportunistic data reveals dynamics of wide-ranging taxa: The sperm whale case. Ecosphere, 10(3), (2019):e02610, doi:10.1002/ecs2.2610.Capture–mark–recapture methods have been extensively used to estimate abundance, demography, and life history parameters of populations of several taxa. However, the high mobility of many species means that dedicated surveys are logistically complicated and expensive. Use of opportunistic data may be an alternative, if modeling takes into account the inevitable heterogeneity in capture probability from imperfect detection and incomplete sampling, which can produce significant bias in parameter estimates. Here, we compare covariate‐based open Jolly‐Seber models (POPAN) and multi‐state open robust design (MSORD) models to estimate demographic parameters of the sperm whale population summering in the Azores, from photo‐identification data collected opportunistically by whale‐watching operators and researchers. The structure of the MSORD also allows for extra information to be obtained, estimating temporary emigration and improving precision of estimated parameters. Estimates of survival from both POPAN and MSORD were high, constant, and very similar. The POPAN model, which partially accounted for heterogeneity in capture probabilities, estimated an unbiased super‐population of ~1470 whales, with annual abundance showing a positive trend from 351 individuals (95% CI: 234–526) in 2010 to 718 (95% CI: 477–1082) in 2015. In contrast, estimates of abundance from MSORD models that explicitly incorporated imperfect detection due to temporary emigration were less biased, more precise, and showed no trend over years, from 275 individuals (95% CI: 188–404) in 2014 to 367 (95% CI: 248–542) in 2012. The MSORD estimated short residence time and an even‐flow temporary emigration, meaning that the probability of whales emigrating from and immigrating to the area was equal. Our results illustrate how failure to account for transience and temporary emigration can lead to biased estimates and trends in abundance, compromising our ability to detect true population changes. MSORD models should improve inferences of population dynamics, especially when capture probability is low and highly variable, due to wide‐ranging behavior of individuals or to non‐standardized sampling. Therefore, these models should provide less biased estimates and more accurate assessments of uncertainty that can inform management and conservation measures.We acknowledge IFAW for providing photo‐identification data from the early period of the study (1987–1993), Biosphere Expeditions and clients of Whale Watch Azores for making data collection possible. We thank Sara Magalhães, Tiago Sá, João Medeiros, Yves Cuenot, Pablo Chevallard Navarro, and numerous volunteers that over the years helped with data collection and organization of the photo‐identification catalogue. We are deeply grateful to Gary White, Bill Kendall, Jim Hines, James Nichols, Paul Conn, and Olivier Gimenez for offering guidance and advice on CMR modeling. We thank Jonathan Gordon for his comments on an earlier version of the manuscript. We are thankful to the three anonymous reviewers for providing very helpful comments. This work was supported by Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT), Azores 2020 Operational Programme, and Fundo Regional da Ciência e Tecnologia (FRCT) through research projects FCT‐Exploratory project (IF/00943/2013/CP1199/CT0001), WATCH IT (Acores‐01‐0145‐FEDER‐000057), and MISTIC SEAS II (GA11.0661/2017/750679/SUB/ENV.C2) co‐funded by FEDER, COMPETE, QREN, POPH, ESF, Portuguese Ministry for Science and Education, and EU‐DG/ENV. The Azores 2020 Operational Programme is funded by the community structural funds ERDF and ESF. We also acknowledge funds provided by FCT to MARE, through the strategic project UID/MAR/04292/2013. Rebecca M Boys is supported by an Estagiar L scholarship, Cláudia Oliveira by a research assistant contract from WATCH IT and Mónica A Silva by an FCT‐Investigator contract (IF/00943/2013), and Rui Prieto by an FCT postdoctoral grant (SFRH/BPD/108007/2015). Mónica A Silva conceptualized the project, acquired funding, administered, and supervised the project. Lisa Steiner, Cláudia Oliveira, Rebecca M Boys, and Mónica A Silva involved in data curation. Rebecca M Boys, Mónica A Silva, Sergi Pérez‐Jorge, and Cláudia Oliveira involved in formal analysis, investigation, and methodology. Rebecca M Boys preparation and visualization of the data. Rebecca M Boys, Mónica A Silva, Sergi Pérez‐Jorge, Rui Prieto wrote the original draft of the manuscript. Rebecca M Boys, Mónica A Silva, Rui Prieto, Sergi Pérez‐Jorge, Cláudia Oliveira, and Lisa Steiner wrote, reviewed, and edited the manuscript

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Exploring Effects of Third-Wave Psychological Therapies on Hearing-Related Distress, Depression, Anxiety, and Quality of Life in People With Audiological Problems

Purpose: There is growing evidence supporting the use of third-wave psychological therapies, such as mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), for people with long-term or chronic physical health conditions. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to critically evaluate the effectiveness of third-wave interventions for improving hearing-related distress and psychological well-being in people with audiological problems. / Method: We searched online bibliographic databases and assessed study quality. We conducted random-effects meta-analyses if at least two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examined hearing-related distress, depression, anxiety, or quality of life in people with audiological problems. Findings of pre–post studies were summarized narratively. / Results: We identified 15 studies: six RCTs and nine pre–post studies. The methodological quality of studies was mostly poor to moderate, and sample sizes were typically small (overall n = 750). Most studies focused on tinnitus (n = 12), MBIs (n = 8), and ACT (n = 6). Statistically significant improvements in hearing-related distress were found with ACT and MBIs versus controls and other treatments at post-intervention in people with tinnitus, while improvements in depression and anxiety were only found for ACT versus controls at post-intervention. However, gains were either not maintained or not examined at follow-up, and there was no evidence for improvements in quality of life. / Conclusions: At present, there is insufficient evidence to recommend the use of third-wave interventions for improving hearing-related distress or psychological well-being in people with audiological problems. There is some evidence that ACT and MBIs may be useful in addressing hearing-related distress in people with tinnitus, but only in the short term. However, findings should be interpreted with caution given the small number of studies with generally small sample sizes and mostly poor-to-moderate methodological quality. More high-quality, adequately powered, double-blind RCTs, particularly in audiological problems other than tinnitus, are needed to draw firm conclusions and meaningful clinical recommendations

The prevalence of common and stress-related mental health disorders in healthcare workers based in pandemic-affected hospitals: a rapid systematic review and meta-analysis

Background : Healthcare workers (HCWs) are considered at elevated risk of experiencing mental health disorders in working with patients with COVID-19. Objective : To estimate the prevalence of common mental health disorders in HCWs based in hospitals where pandemic-affected patients were treated. Method : Databases were searched for studies published before 30 March 2020. Quantitative synthesis was used to obtain estimates of the prevalence of mental health disorders in four time windows, determined a priori (the acute phase, i.e. during and up to 1.5 months post-pandemic; 1.5–5.9 months; 6–11.9 months; 12 months and later). Results : Nineteen studies met the review criteria. They predominantly addressed the acute phase of the SARS outbreak in Asia. The most studied outcomes were clinically significant post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and general psychiatric caseness. For clinically significant PTSS in the acute phase, the prevalence estimate was 23.4% (95% CI 16.3, 31.2; N = 4147; I2 = 96.2%); in the 12 months plus window, the estimate was 11.9% (8.4, 15.8; N = 1136; I2 = 74.3%). For general psychiatric caseness, prevalence estimates were acute phase, 34.1% (18.7, 51.4; N = 3971; I2 = 99.1%); 6–12 months, 17.9% (13.1, 23.2; N = 223; I2 = 0.0%); 12 months plus, 29.3% (6.0, 61.0; N = 710; I2 = 97.8%). No differences between doctors and nurses with respective to PTSS and general psychiatric caseness were apparent in the acute phase. Conclusions : Mental health disorders are particularly common in HCWs working with pandemic-afflicted patients immediately following a pandemic, but the course of disorders following this period is poorly understood. There was considerable heterogeneity between studies, likely linked to methodological differences. More extended follow up of HCWs is needed

Nutrients, herbal bioactive derivatives and commensal microbiota as tools to lower the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection

The SARS-CoV-2 outbreak has infected a vast population across the world, causing more than 664 million cases and 6.7 million deaths by January 2023. Vaccination has been effective in reducing the most critical aftermath of this infection, but some issues are still present regarding re-infection prevention, effectiveness against variants, vaccine hesitancy and worldwide accessibility. Moreover, although several old and new antiviral drugs have been tested, we still lack robust and specific treatment modalities. It appears of utmost importance, facing this continuously growing pandemic, to focus on alternative practices grounded on firm scientific bases. In this article, we aim to outline a rigorous scientific background and propose complementary nutritional tools useful toward containment, and ultimately control, of SARS-CoV-2 infection. In particular, we review the mechanisms of viral entry and discuss the role of polyunsaturated fatty acids derived from α-linolenic acid and other nutrients in preventing the interaction of SARS-CoV-2 with its entry gateways. In a similar way, we analyze in detail the role of herbal-derived pharmacological compounds and specific microbial strains or microbial-derived polypeptides in the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 entry. In addition, we highlight the role of probiotics, nutrients and herbal-derived compounds in stimulating the immunity response

Correction:Solving unsolved rare neurological diseases—a Solve-RD viewpoint (European Journal of Human Genetics, (2021), 29, 9, (1332-1336), 10.1038/s41431-021-00901-1)

In the original publication of the article, consortium author lists were missing in the article

The HADES mission concept - astrobiological survey of Jupiter's icy moon Europa

The HADES Europa mission concept aims to provide a framework for an astrobiological in-depth investigation of the Jupiter moon Europa, relying on existing technologies and feasibility. This mission study proposes a system consisting of an orbiter, lander and cryobot as a platform for detailed exploration of Europa. While the orbiter will investigate the presence of a liquid ocean and characterize Europa's internal structure, the lander will survey local dynamics of the ice layer and the surface environment. The lander releases a cryobot, that melts into the ice, will sample the pristine subsurface and is expected to provide data on organic and gaseous content and putative bio-signatures. In summary, we present the scientific objectives for an astrobiological investigation of Europa, resulting in a mission concept with a detailed evaluation of scientific instrumentation, mission sequences, basic design of the spacecraft, technology needs and cost estimation

Coverage, determinants of use and repurposing of long‑lasting insecticidal nets two years after a mass distribution in Lihir Islands, Papua New Guinea: a cross‑sectional study

Background: Universal coverage with long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) is an essential component of malaria control programmes. Three-yearly mass distribution of LLINs in Papua New Guinea (PNG) has been successful in reducing infection transmission since 2009, but malaria prevalence ramped up from 2015 onwards. Although LLIN universal coverage is mostly achieved during these campaigns, it may not be related with net use over time. Uses given to LLINs and non-compliance of this strategy were evaluated. Methods: A knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) cross-sectional study was conducted in Lihir Islands, PNG, 2–2.5 years after the last LLIN mass distribution campaign. Data on bed net ownership, use and maintenance behaviour was collected using a household questionnaire administered by trained community volunteers. Logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with owning at least one LLIN and sleeping under a LLIN the previous night. Results: Among 2694 households surveyed, 27.4 % (95 % CI: 25.8–29.2) owned at least one LLIN and 8.7 % (95 % CI: 7.6–9.8) had an adequate LLIN coverage (at least one LLIN for every two people). Out of 13,595 individuals in the surveyed households, 13.6 % (95 % CI: 13.0-–4.2) reported having slept under a LLIN the preceding night. Determinants for sleeping under LLIN included living in a household with adequate LLIN coverage [adjusted OR (aOR) = 5.82 (95 % CI: 3.23–10.49)], household heads knowledge about LLINs [aOR = 16.44 (95 % CI: 8.29–32.58)], and female gender [aOR = 1.92 (95 % CI: 1.53–2.40)] (all p-values < 0.001). LLIN use decreased with older age [aOR = 0.29 (95 % CI: 0.21–0.40) for ≥ 15 year-olds, aOR = 0.38 (95 % CI: 0.27–0.55) for 5–14 year-olds] compared to < 5 year-olds (p-value < 0.001). Knowledge on the use of LLIN was good in 37.0 % of the household heads. Repurposed nets were reported serving as fishing nets (30.4 %), fruits and seedlings protection (26.6 %), covering up food (19.0 %) and bed linen (11.5 %). Conclusions: Two years after mass distribution, LLIN coverage and use in Lihir Islands is extremely low. Three yearly distribution campaigns may not suffice to maintain an acceptable LLIN coverage unless knowledge on maintenance and use is promoted trough educational campaigns

The HADES mission concept – Astrobiological survey of Jupiter's icy moon Europa

The HADES Europa mission concept aims to provide a framework for an astrobiological in-depth investigation of the Jupiter moon Europa, relying on existing technologies and feasibility. This mission study proposes a system consisting of an orbiter, lander and cryobot as a platform for detailed exploration of Europa. While the orbiter will investigate the presence of a liquid ocean and characterize Europa's internal structure, the lander will survey local dynamics of the ice layer and the surface environment. The lander releases a cryobot, that melts into the ice, will sample the pristine subsurface and is expected to provide data on organic and gaseous content and putative bio-signatures. In summary, we present the scientific objectives for an astrobiological investigation of Europa, resulting in a mission concept with a detailed evaluation of scientific instrumentation, mission sequences, basic design of the spacecraft, technology needs and cost estimations