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This study, centered around a survey of library directors (N = 83), examines community health programming (CHP) in Michigan's public libraries within the broader context of national CHP initiatives. Reponses indicate that while physical activity classes and food skills programs are popular, there are still challenges to overcome. These findings led us to recommendations for cultivating partnerships that can help CHP grow and flourish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Estimation of prevalence and diagnostic test accuracy in tuberculosis (TB) prevalence surveys suffer from reference standard and verification biases. The former is attributed to the imperfect reference test used to bacteriologically confirm TB disease. The latter occurs when only the participants screening positive for any TB-compatible symptom or chest X-ray abnormality are selected for bacteriological testing (verification). Bayesian latent class analysis (LCA) alleviates the reference standard bias but suffers verification bias in TB prevalence surveys. This work aims to identify best-practice approaches to simultaneously alleviate the reference standard and verification biases in the estimates of pulmonary TB prevalence and diagnostic test performance in TB prevalence surveys. Methods: We performed a secondary analysis of 9869 participants aged ≥15 years from a community-based multimorbidity screening study in a rural district of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (Vukuzazi study). Participants were eligible for bacteriological testing using Xpert Ultra and culture if they reported any cardinal TB symptom or had an abnormal chest X-ray finding. We conducted Bayesian LCA in five ways to handle the unverified individuals: (i) complete-case analysis, (ii) analysis assuming the unverified individuals would be negative if bacteriologically tested, (iii) analysis of multiply-imputed datasets with imputation of the missing bacteriological test results for the unverified individuals using multivariate imputation via chained equations (MICE), and simultaneous imputation of the missing bacteriological test results in the analysis model assuming the missing bacteriological test results were (iv) missing at random (MAR), and (v) missing not at random (MNAR). We compared the results of (i)-(iii) to the analysis based on a composite reference standard (CRS) of Xpert Ultra and culture. Through simulation with an overall true prevalence of 2.0%, we evaluated the ability of the models to alleviate both biases simultaneously. Results: Based on simulation, Bayesian LCA with simultaneous imputation of the missing bacteriological test results under the assumption that the missing data are MAR and MNAR alleviate the reference standard and verification biases. CRS-based analysis and Bayesian LCA assuming the unverified are negative for TB alleviate the biases only when the true overall prevalence is <3.0%. Complete-case analysis produced biased estimates. In the Vukuzazi study, Bayesian LCA with simultaneous imputation of the missing bacteriological test results under the MAR and MNAR assumptions produced overall PTB prevalence of 0.9% (95% Credible Interval (CrI): 0.6–1.9) and 0.7% (95% CrI: 0.5–1.1) respectively alongside realistic estimates of overall diagnostic test sensitivity and specificity with substantially overlapping 95% CrI. The CRS-based analysis and Bayesian LCA assuming the unverified were negative for TB produced 0.7% (95% CrI: 0.5–0.9) and 0.7% (95% CrI: 0.5–1.2) overall PTB prevalence respectively with realistic estimates of overall diagnostic test sensitivity and specificity. Unlike CRS-based analysis, Bayesian LCA of multiply-imputed data using MICE mitigates both biases. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate the efficacy of these advanced techniques in alleviating the reference standard and verification biases, enhancing the robustness of community-based screening programs. Imputing missing values as negative for bacteriological tests is plausible under realistic assumptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With a national prevalence of 0.9%, Burundi is close to achieving UNAIDS' 2025 targets. Despite this, different types of crises periodically disrupt its HIV health services. The community-based program EPIC measured the impact of the COVID-19 health crisis on people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Burundi in 2021. Specifically, it assessed ART interruption and associated factors since the beginning of the pandemic. The study questionnaire was administered to PLHIV in three cities between October and November 2021. Participants were recruited using convenience sampling. Logistic regression models helped identify factors associated with ART interruption. Of the 317 respondents, 37 (11.7%) reported interruption. The majority (79.2%) self-identified as belonging to key populations. Interruption was significantly associated with: fewer HIV medical follow-up visits (adjusted Odds Ratio, aOR = 7.80, p = 0.001) and forced HIV status disclosure (aOR = 4.10, p = 0.004). It was inversely associated with multi-month ART dispensing (aOR = 0.36, p = 0.017) since the beginning of the pandemic and the perception of not having been sufficiently informed by the HIV medical team about the risk of COVID-19 infection (aOR = 0.11, p < 0.001). Our results highlight the importance of multi-month ART dispensing, enhanced communication, and voluntary disclosure of one's HIV status in preventing ART interruption in times of crises in Burundi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer death among women of reproductive age despite being treatable if it is diagnosed early. Early diagnosis is possible through regular screening through the public health system. However, screening rates remain low in many low- and middle-income countries, including Kenya, where the screening rate currently stands at 16–18%. The low screening rates are attributed to, among other factors, low knowledge about cervical cancer and the available screening options among women of reproductive age. The current study evaluated the effectiveness of dialogue-based community health education by trained community health volunteers (CHVs) in improving cervical cancer knowledge among women of reproductive age (WRA) in rural Kisumu County. Methods: This was a longitudinal pre- and post-intervention study with a control group. The knowledge of women of reproductive age was assessed at baseline in both the intervention and control groups, followed by dialogue-based community health education in the intervention arm. A final end-line knowledge assessment was performed. The scores at baseline and at the end of the study were compared to assess changes in knowledge due to the intervention. The proportion of WRA with improved knowledge was also calculated, and statistical significance was considered at p ≤ 0.05. Results: There was no significant difference between the participants in the two arms, except for the level of education (p = 0.002). The knowledge of the WRA in the intervention arm improved significantly (p < 0.001) following the dialogue-based educational intervention by the trained CHVs. None of the demographic characteristics were associated with knowledge. Conclusion: Dialogue-based educational intervention significantly improved the knowledge of the WRA in the intervention arm, showing its potential to address the knowledge gap in the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper calls for an expansion of translingual studies to include the examination of learners beyond university contexts to further our understanding of translingual literacies and practices. The authors present findings from a larger ethnographic study about practices and repertoires that (im)migrant women mobilize and employ when learning how to write in a community-based English literacy program. The study provides insights into the intersections of their identities as mothers and professionals and their literacy learning. Findings show how these women drew on diverse modalities and literacies to navigate new conventions for writing and challenges they face as (im)migrants in the United States, illustrating how their practices are linked to their professional and gendered identities. The findings illustrate the need to expand translingual studies to further theorize multilingual lives, language learning, and literacy practices cultivated in non-traditional education programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Premature birth remains a public health problem worldwide, involving a broader context and a multidisciplinary team aimed at combating this phenomenon as much as possible. The consumption of addictive substances by women who are pregnant can occur in different social contexts and at different stages of their lives, which modulate its extent. Obstetricians and anesthetists should consider the anesthetic maternal risks that may arise due to these addictive behaviors. The maternal anesthetic risk is higher in women who are pregnant with a medium-level of education, imbalanced nutrition, stress associated with physical or mental activity, affected sleep hygiene, and failed marriages. Objectives: The objectives of the study refer to analyzing the impact of exogenous factors and the anesthetic risk on premature birth for women who were pregnant during the pandemic period and in women who were pregnant without COVID-19 infection. The authors studied a significant sample of 3588 women who were pregnant without COVID-19 infection, among whom 3291 gave birth at term and 297 gave birth prematurely. Methods: The methods analyzed consist of studying the specialized literature regarding the impact of exogenous factors and parturient's anesthetic risk on premature birth and identifying the regional risk profile of women who are pregnant in the southeast region of Romania compared to that identified in the specialized literature. In the analytical methods, we used a linear regression to study the incidence of exogenous risk factors on anesthetic risk in women who were pregnant with premature births compared to those with full-term births. Results: The results confirm the significant impact of exogenous factors on anesthetic risk and the significant impact of anesthetic risk on premature births. The novelty of the study lies in highlighting the modification of the regional exogenous risk profile during the pandemic period in southeast Romania due to unfavorable socio-economic causes and the translation of grade I and II prematurity events to higher frequencies with an increased level of maternal anesthetic risk. Conclusions: The study findings show that the anesthetic risk is maximized in parturients with a middle school education. Additionally, the anesthetic risk of patients who are pregnant increases with the intensification of smoking adherence and its maintenance throughout the pregnancy at the same intensity. Our study aims to provide a basis for the diversification and development of community intervention programs in the post-COVID-19 era, considering the reshaping of social models and the repositioning of social principles and values. Obstetricians and anesthetists must know and promote family values to harmonize the lives of family members and provide a better life for the mother and child. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to limited research on Black girls in science education, this study focuses on the forms of capital Black girls cultivated through their participation in a community‐based STEM after‐school program. The study drew from the interviews and a focus group session of 10 Black girls and investigated their formal and informal experiences in science. Using intersectionality and community cultural wealth as theoretical perspectives, findings revealed that multiple forms of capital (aspirational, social, navigational, and familial) were fostered and interconnected throughout the program. The intersections of race and gender were also prominent contributions to the multidimensional, nuanced ways Black girls experience and flourish in STEM education. Implications and recommendations for future research on Black girls in science are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recognizing that limited literature exists regarding food programs in northern Indigenous communities within Canada, this study draws on a range of sources to map and characterize existing food programs in these contexts. A secondary aim assessed the extent to which traditional food was offered through the identified programs, which has implications for cultural appropriateness and, in turn, food sovereignty. Peer‐reviewed articles and grey literature published between 2000 and 2022 were examined. Frameworks to guide methodologies include PRISMA‐ScR, Arksey and O'Malley, Levac et al., and Godin et al.'s grey literature search strategy. Inclusion criteria were food programs located north of the Northern Boundary Line, programs providing food access, and programs serving Indigenous communities. Data were synthesized based on program type, target population, and whether the program offered or incorporated traditional food. The review yielded 30 records wherein 46 unique food programs were identified and characterized into eight distinct program types. Program success of the identified programs depended on funding availability and continuity, staff/volunteer availability and retention (including program champions), and types of policies that impact traditional food provision. Findings are valuable to organizations and communities interested in using food programs to support Indigenous food security and sovereignty efforts. Key messages: The results identified eight distinct types of food programs: 1) community‐wide; 2) gardens/greenhouses; 3) school‐based; 4) harvesting/sharing; 5) community freezers; 6) daycare‐based; 7) maternal/family nutrition; and 8) hospital.The ability of programs that serve diverse populations across large regions to respond to community and Indigenous‐specific needs is questionable; therefore, community‐based programming should be prioritized.Current challenges that limit the ability of food programs to meet community needs include tedious grant applications, limited resources, and navigating multi‐level government policies for serving traditional food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To systematically review the effectiveness of caregiver and parent skills training programs, including caregiver‐mediated interventions, for caregivers of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. Method: We conducted a systematic review with a random‐effects meta‐analysis. We searched 11 electronic databases through July 2021 and used a snowball methodology to locate relevant articles of randomized controlled trials. Effect size estimates were pooled using Hedges' g from data extracted from study reports and through author requests using random‐effects meta‐analyses for three child outcome categories (child development, adaptive behavior, and problem behavior) and three caregiver outcome categories (parenting skills and knowledge, psychological well‐being, and interpersonal family relations). Results: We located 44 910 records, from which 75 randomized controlled trials involving 4746 individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders and their caregivers were included. Random‐effects meta‐analyses showed improvements in child development (g = 0.30; 99% confidence interval [CI] = 0.07–0.53) and reduction in reported problem behaviors (g = 0.41; 99% CI = 0.24–0.59), but not a statistically significant improvement in adaptive behavior (g = 0.28; 99% CI = −0.42 to 0.98). Caregivers showed improvements in parenting skills and knowledge (g = 0.72; 99% CI = 0.53–0.90), psychological well‐being (g = 0.52; 99% CI = 0.34–0.71), and interpersonal family relations (g = 0.76; 99% CI = 0.32–1.20). Interpretation: Caregiver skills training programs benefit both caregivers and children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Skills training programs improve child development and behavior, improve parenting skills, reduce caregiver mental health issues, and improve family functioning. Programs using culturally appropriate training material to improve the development, functioning, and participation of children within families and communities should be considered when caring for children with neurodevelopmental disorders. What this paper adds: Caregiver skills training programs are effective interventions for both caregivers and children.Children with neurodevelopmental disorders benefit from improvements in development and reduction of problematic behaviors.Caregivers benefit from enhanced skills and psychological well‐being.Improvements in interpersonal family relationships have also been documented. What this paper adds: Caregiver skills training programs are effective interventions for both caregivers and children.Children with neurodevelopmental disorders benefit from improvements in development and reduction of problematic behaviors.Caregivers benefit from enhanced skills and psychological well‐being.Improvements in interpersonal family relationships have also been documented. This systematic review is commented on by Lau on pages 684–685 of this issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article draws on the author's 2023 Western Society of Criminology Paul Tappan Award address on her seminal work with adolescent girls in Flint Michigan. Echoing the major theme from that address, the article focuses on the need for practitioners and academics to collaborate and more actively engage in targeting programs relevant to the needs of young women. The Flint study identified great discrepancies between providers and girls regarding program relevancy and effectiveness, underscoring the importance of including adolescent girls' voice in program development and evaluation, which is finally being addressed in contemporary programming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Rates of appropriate surgical treatment of colon cancer are historically worse in traditionally marginalized populations. We sought to examine which social determinants of health may be associated with longer time to appropriate operative intervention. Methods: The National Cancer Databank was queried for this retrospective study. Adult patients (18 to 90 years of age) diagnosed between 2004 and 2018 with single or primary, stage III colon cancer were included. Patient demographic variables included age at diagnosis, sex, ethnicity (Hispanic or non-Hispanic), comorbidity score, median household income, education status, rural/urban status, treatment facility type and location, and insurance status. Disease characteristics include stage (stage 3), primary site, surgical margins, tumor size, and number of nodes resected. Reported descriptive statistics include means and 95% confidence intervals for continuous variables and frequency and proportions for categorical variables. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. Results: A total of 134,601 individuals diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer were included. Time to surgery in all cases had a mean of 26.4 ± 19.0 days. Multivariate analysis of time to surgery indicated that receiving surgery at a Community Cancer Program, Charlson-Deyo Score of 0, younger age, and non-Hispanic-White race/ethnicity are associated with decreased time to surgery (P <.001). Conclusion: Patients who receive surgery at a Community Cancer Program, have fewer comorbidities, have lower household income, are younger, and receive surgery within 50 miles of their primary residence are more likely to have timely surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aims to evaluate program signaling in surgical specialties, analyze its influence on residency applications, and provide recommendations for enhancing its consistency and effectiveness. Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed AAMC ERAS data from the 2021 to 2022 and 2023 residency match cycles, focusing on surgical specialties including general surgery, neurological surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, and orthopedic surgery. Results: A positive correlation existed between the number of signals received and the number of applicants to a program across 4 surgical specialties. 10% of programs in each specialty received between 17% and 28% of all signals. There was a negative correlation between the number of current DO residents at a program and the number of signals received. Amongst surgical specialties, those with more signals per applicant had a more equitable distribution of signals across competitive programs. University programs received the most signals, programs were less likely to receive signals if they had a higher percentage of DO residents, and IMG applicants were less likely to send signals. Conclusion: Specialties with more signals per applicant had a more equitable distribution of signals across competitive programs, and university programs received proportionally more signals than community programs. Further research is required to investigate the disparities in signaling and the impact of signaling on successful matching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Community science bioassessment has great potential to inform comprehensive stream management plans, but regional analytical tools are needed to evaluate macroinvertebrate data collected through community science programs. To this end, we modified a pre-existing professional index of biotic integrity (IBI) to create a community science IBI (CS-IBI), designed for stream macroinvertebrate data collected by community scientists with minimal training. We used data collected by both professional and community scientists to develop, calibrate, and validate the CS-IBI at 76 stream sites in the Puget Lowland and Willamette Valley ecoregions of the Pacific Northwest in the United States. Community science data were taxonomically coarser and more variable than data generated by professionals; however, IBI scores and assemblage data were statistically similar between community science and professional data. Stream impairment categories classified by family-level CS-IBI scores matched genus-level professional classifications 65% of the time and never diverged by >1 category. CS-IBI scores were negatively related to the percentage of agriculture and land development in the watershed, although this relationship was weaker than for professional IBI scores. Despite increased variability in data generated by community scientists, our findings suggest the CS-IBI performs similarly to a professional IBI across a gradient of human influence. Although we do not advocate using the CS-IBI in regulatory settings, we believe the development of community science IBIs enhances, expands, and strengthens public partnerships, thereby supporting environmental managers' efforts to monitor and restore degraded streams and rapidly respond to pollution events. Our hope is that the CS-IBI will improve the applicability of community science bioassessment data and serve as a model for how agencies can develop regionalized macroinvertebrate IBIs for use in comprehensive watershed management plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While scholars have linked immigration enforcement with reductions in Latinx crime reporting, little research has examined the tools localities can use to counter reporting declines. This study assesses whether a community policing program adopted by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) offset documented decreases in Latinx domestic violence reporting after President Trump assumed office. Using data on crimes reported to the LAPD between 2014 and 2019, this study finds that while domestic violence reports made by Latinx victims declined elsewhere after Trump took office, they increased in areas exposed to the community policing program. Results suggest that community policing may be a viable tool to encourage help-seeking behavior among residents vulnerable to deportation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although dietary potassium restriction is an acceptable approach to hyperkalemia prevention, it may be insufficient for outpatients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Most outpatients with CKD use community pharmacies owing to the free access scheme in Japan. The MieYaku-CKD project included a community pharmacist-led nutritional intervention for dietary potassium restriction, with the goal of determining its efficacy for patients' awareness of potassium restriction and serum potassium levels in outpatients with CKD. This was a five-community pharmacy multicenter prospective cohort study with an open-label, before-and-after comparison design. Eligible patients (n = 25) with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 45 mL/min/1.73 m2 received nutritional guidance from community pharmacists. The primary outcome was a change in serum potassium levels at 12 weeks post-intervention. The eligible patients' knowledge, awareness, and implementation of potassium restriction were evaluated using a questionnaire. The median value of serum potassium was significantly reduced from 4.7 mEq/L before to 4.4 mEq/L after the intervention [p < 0.001, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.156–0.500], with no changes in eGFR (p = 0.563, 95% CI: -2.427–2.555) and blood urine nitrogen/serum creatinine ratio (p = 0.904, 95% CI: -1.793–1.214). The value of serum potassium had a tendency of attenuation from 5.3 to 4.6 mEq/L (p = 0.046, 95% CI: 0.272–1.114) in the eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 group. A questionnaire revealed that after the intervention, knowledge and attitudes regarding dietary potassium restriction were much greater than before, suggesting that the decrease in serum potassium levels may be related to this nutritional guidance. Our findings indicate that implementing a dietary potassium restriction guidance program in community pharmacies is feasible and may result in lower serum potassium levels in outpatients with CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Government of Nepal initiated a family-based National Health Insurance Program (NHIP) in April 2016, aiming to ensure universal health coverage (UHC) by enhancing access to and utilization of quality health services. However, NHIP, in its initial years of implementation, encountered challenges such as low population coverage, a high dropout rate, and concerns among the insured regarding the quality of healthcare services. There is a dearth of information regarding user satisfaction with the NHIP in Nepal. This study aimed to assess user satisfaction with NHIP at the household level in Nepal. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among 347 households in the Ilam district using a multi-stage random sampling method. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with household heads enrolled in NHIP. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect the data. The multivariable logistic regression analysis was done to identify the predictors of satisfaction level. Results: Overall, 53.6% of the insured were satisfied with the NHIP, while 31.1% had comprehensive knowledge about the NHIP. Factors such as gender (AOR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.08–3.00), distance to the first point of contact (AOR: 2.15, 95% CI: 1.24–3.74), waiting time (AOR: 2.02, 95% CI: 1.20–3.42), availability of diagnostic services (AOR: 1.90, 95% CI: 1.05–3.45), availability of prescribed medicine (AOR: 3.90, 95% CI: 1.97–7.69), perceived service quality (AOR: 2.20, 95% CI: 1.15–4.20), and the behavior of service providers (AOR: 3.48, 95% CI: 1.04–11.63) were significantly associated with user satisfaction. Conclusion: The satisfaction level among NHIP users was deemed moderate. This study highlighted several factors, such as gender, distance to the first point of contact, waiting time, availability of diagnostic services and prescribed medicine, perceived service quality, and the behavior of service providers, as key determinants impacting user satisfaction. Recognizing the pivotal role of user satisfaction, health insurance stakeholders must prioritize it to ensure higher retention rates and coverage within NHIP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a time of increasing threats to bumble bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Bombus), it is important to understand their ecology and distribution. As experts are limited in resources to conduct field surveys, there is potential for community scientists to help. The Bumble Bee Watch (BBW) community science program involves volunteers taking photos of bumble bees in Canada and the USA and submitting them, along with geographic and optional plant information, to a website or through an app. Taxon experts then verify the bee species identification. The Bumble Bees of North America database (BBNA) stores data (no photographs) collected and identified by more traditional scientific methods over the same range. Here we compared BBW data to BBNA data over all years and just 2010–2020 to understand the scientific contribution of community scientists to the state of the knowledge about native bumble bees. We found that BBW had similar geographic and species coverage as BBNA. It had records from all 63 provinces, states, and territories where bumble bees occur (including four more than BBNA in 2010–2020), and represented 41 of the 48 species in BBNA (with ten more species than BBNA in 2010–2020). While BBW contributed only 8.50% of records overall, it contributed 25.06% of all records over 2010–2020. BBW confirmed the persistence of species and identified new locations of species, both inside and outside of the previously known extent of occurrences. BBW also contributed a wealth of ecological information, such as unique plant genera and species data for almost all the bee species. Thus, while BBW had fewer bee records than the BBNA database overall, it helped to fill in data gaps and provided novel information, complementing the traditional methods. This community science program is valuable in helping to inform conservation management for bumble bee species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The International Classification of Function, Disability, and Health (ICF—WHO, 2001) recognizes several dimensions of disability, such as body structure and function (and impairment thereof), activity (and activity restrictions) and participation (and participation restriction) and their interactions with contextual factor (personal and environmental). In this study, we map and analyse the relationship between the components of ICF in leprosy patients from two rural areas in Indonesia: Lewoleba (East Nusa Tenggara) and Likupang (North Minahasa). This study was part of a community outreach program by the KATAMATAKU team from Universitas Indonesia. The body structure was graded using the WHO hand and feet disability grade and the number of enlarged nerves, while the body function was measured by the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test (JTT) and Timed-up and Go (TUG). Activity limitation and participation restriction were measured using the Screening Activity Limitation Safety Awareness (SALSA) Scale and Participation Scale (P-scale), respectively. There were 177 leprosy patients from the two regions and 150 patients with complete data were included in the analysis. We found 82% (95% CI: 75.08%-87.32%) of subjects with multibacillary leprosy, 10.67% (95% CI: 6.67%-16.62%) of subjects with grade 2 WHO hand disability, and 9.33% (95% CI: 5.64%-15.06%) of subjects with grade 2 WHO foot disability. Assessment using the SALSA Scale showed 29.33% of subjects with limitation activity and 11.33% with participation restriction. Age was shown to have positive correlations with SALSA, JTT, and TUG. Inter-dimensional analysis showed that the SALSA scale had significant positive correlations with the number of nerve enlargements, P-scale, JTT, and TUG. SALSA scores of grade 2 WHO hand and foot disability were also significantly higher than grades 1 and 0. The participation scale also had a positive correlation with JTT but not TUG. Hand disability seemed to affect societal participation while foot did not. We used the ICF to describe and analyse dimensions of leprosy-related disability in Indonesia. Author summary: Disability is the long-term outcome of untreated leprosy or Hansen's disease, which is caused by peripheral nerve invasion of the Mycobacterium leprae. It is a serious and life-limiting complication for leprosy patients. Currently, seven regions in Indonesia have not yet achieved the state of disease elimination. In addition, Indonesia has not succeeded in achieving the sub-target of the rate of new cases with grade 2 disability in 2023. The concept of disability and health including the body structure, body function, personal and environmental domains, activity limitation, and participation restriction, is provided by the ICF. Through the framework, we could assess the aspects of disability and its relationship to one another in leprosy patients. Furthermore, the early detection, screening, and management programs for leprosy have not included aspects of disability and rehabilitative measures for restoration. Thus, the purpose of this study is to find the impact of leprosy-related disability on the patients' body function, activity, and participation. We reported 150 leprosy patients from two rural areas of Indonesia and found significant relationships between specific indicators, which would be useful for rehabilitative management programs in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Comprehensive school-based programs applying the WHO Health Promoting School Model have the potential to initiate and sustain behavior change and impact health. However, since they often include intervention efforts on a school's policies, physical environment, curriculum, health care and involving parents and communities, they significantly 'intrude' on a complex system that is aimed primarily at education, not health promotion. More insights into and concrete strategies are therefore needed regarding their adoption, implementation, and sustainment processes to address the challenge to sustainable implementation of HPS initiatives in a primarily educational setting. This study consequently evaluates adoption, implementation and sustainment processes of Amsterdam's Jump-in healthy nutrition HPS intervention from a multi-stakeholder perspective. Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews and focus groups with all involved stakeholders (n = 131), i.e., Jump-in health promotion professionals (n = 5), school principals (n = 7), at-school Jump-in coordinators (n = 7), teachers (n = 20), parents (n = 50, 9 groups) and children (n = 42, 7 groups) from 10 primary schools that enrolled in Jump-in in the school year 2016–2017. Included schools had a higher prevalence of overweight and/or obesity than the Dutch average and they were all located in Amsterdam's low-SEP neighborhoods. Data were analyzed using a directed content analysis, in which the Determinants of Innovation Model was used for obtaining theory-based predetermined codes, supplemented with new codes emerging from the data. Results: During intervention adoption, all stakeholders emphasized the importance of parental support, and accompanying workshops and promotional materials. Additionally, parents and teachers indicated that a shared responsibility for children's health and nuanced framing of health messages were important. During implementation, all stakeholders needed clear guidelines and support structures. Teachers and children highlighted the importance of peer influence, social norms, and uniform application of guidelines. School staff also found further tailoring of the intervention and dealing with financial constraints important. For long-term intervention sustainment, incorporating the intervention policies into the school statutes was crucial according to health promotion professionals. Conclusions: This qualitative evaluation provides valuable insights into factors influencing the adoption, implementation, and sustainment processes of dietary interventions, such as the importance of transparent and consistent intervention guidelines, clear communication regarding the rationale behind intervention guidelines, and, stakeholders' involvement in decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reablement is considered a complex intervention due to its multicomponent, person-centered, holistic approach promoting older adults' active participation in daily activities. It is important to consider the unique context in which complex interventions are implemented, as contextual factors may interact and influence implementation outcomes. As part of the European TRANS-SENIOR project, this qualitative study aimed to gain insight into professionals' experiences with reablement implementation in Dutch community care. Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, four focus groups were conducted comprising 32 professionals. Two groups were formed: one at operational level, including therapists, nursing staff, social workers, and domestic support; and one at organizational/strategic level, including project leaders, managers, directors, municipality representatives and health insurers. Participating care organizations had at least 6 months of experience with deploying and implementing reablement. Findings reflected three themes: (1) strength of interdisciplinary collaboration; highlighting significance of sharing goals and beliefs, (2) integrating the reablement philosophy into the organization; underscoring managements role in fostering support across all organizational layers, and (3) achieving a culture change in the healthcare system; emphasizing current funding models impeding value-based care tailored to the individual's goals and needs. The results offer valuable insights for implementation of complex interventions, like reablement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Community and individual participation are crucial for the success of schistosomiasis control. The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the importance of enhanced sanitation, health education, and Mass Drug Administration (MDA) in the fight against schistosomiasis. These approaches rely on the knowledge and practices of the community to be successful; however, where the community knowledge is low and inappropriate, it hinders intervention efforts. Hence, it is essential to identify barriers and misconceptions related to awareness of schistosomiasis, sources of infection, mode of transmission, symptoms, and control measures. Methods: This was a mixed-method cross-sectional study involving 1200 pre-school children randomly selected and examined for Schistosoma mansoni infection using the Kato-Katz technique. All parents/guardians of selected children were enrolled for a pre-tested questionnaire survey, while 42 were engaged in focus group discussions (FGDs). The level of knowledge and awareness among parents/guardians about schistosomiasis was evaluated in relation to the infection status of their pre-school children. Results: Among pre-school children, the prevalence of intestinal schistosomiasis was 45.1% (95% CI 41.7–48.5). A majority of parents/guardians (85.5%) had heard about schistosomiasis, and this awareness was associated with the participant's level of education (OR = 0.16, 95% CI 0.08, 0.34). In addition, a positive association was observed between higher educational attainment and knowledge of the causative agent (OR = 0.69, 95% CI 0.49, 0.96). Low education level was significantly associated with limited knowledge of transmission through lake water contact (OR = 0.71, 95% CI 0.52, 0.97) and infection from the lake (OR = 0.33, 95% CI 0.19, 0.57). Notably, parents/guardians who have heard of schistosomiasis could not recognize symptoms of S. mansoni infection, such as abdominal pain (91.8%, 815/888) and blood in the stool (85.1%, 756/888). Surprisingly, 49.8% (442/888) incorrectly identified hematuria (blood in urine), a key sign of S. haematobium, but not S. mansoni, in an endemic area for S. mansoni infection. The majority (82.6%, 734/888) of parents/guardians were unaware that dams are potential infection sites, despite 53.9% (479/888) of their pre-school-aged children testing positive for schistosome infection. Conclusions: Despite the high level of awareness of intestinal schistosomiasis in the study area, we identified a low level of knowledge regarding its causes, modes of transmission, signs and symptoms and potential sites of transmission within the community. This study emphasizes the need for targeted educational interventions to address the misconceptions and knowledge gaps surrounding intestinal schistosomiasis through tailored community-based programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: 60% of women in Papua New Guinea (PNG) give birth unsupervised and outside of a health facility, contributing to high national maternal and perinatal mortality rates. We evaluated a practical, hospital-based on-the-job training program implemented by local health authorities in PNG between 2013 and 2019 aimed at addressing this challenge by upskilling community health workers (CHWs) to provide quality maternal and newborn care in rural health facilities. Methods: Two provinces, the Eastern Highlands and Simbu Provinces, were included in the study. In the Eastern Highlands Province, a baseline and end point skills assessment and post-training interviews 12 months after completion of the 2018 training were used to evaluate impacts on CHW knowledge, skills, and self-reported satisfaction with training. Quality and timeliness of referrals was assessed through data from the Eastern Highlands Province referral hospital registers. In Simbu Province, impacts of training on facility births, stillbirths and referrals were evaluated pre- and post-training retrospectively using routine health facility reporting data from 2012 to 2019, and negative binomial regression analysis adjusted for potential confounders and correlation of outcomes within facilities. Results: The average knowledge score increased significantly, from 69.8% (95% CI:66.3-73.2%) at baseline, to 87.8% (95% CI:82.9-92.6%) following training for the 8 CHWs participating in Eastern Highlands Province training. CHWs reported increased confidence in their skills and ability to use referral networks. There were significant increases in referrals to the Eastern Highlands provincial hospital arriving in the second stage of labour but no significant difference in the 5 min Apgar score for children, pre and post training. Data on 11,345 births in participating facilities in Simbu Province showed that the number of births in participating rural health facilities more than doubled compared to prior to training, with the impact increasing over time after training (0–12 months after training: IRR 1.59, 95% CI: 1.04–2.44, p-value 0.033, > 12 months after training: IRR 2.46, 95% CI:1.37–4.41, p-value 0.003). There was no significant change in stillbirth or referral rates. Conclusions: Our findings showed positive impacts of the upskilling program on CHW knowledge and practice of participants, facility births rates, and appropriateness of referrals, demonstrating its promise as a feasible intervention to improve uptake of maternal and newborn care services in rural and remote, low-resource settings within the resourcing available to local authorities. Larger-scale evaluations of a size adequately powered to ascertain impact of the intervention on stillbirth rates are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This is a retrospective longitudinal study comparing 374 patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) who were treated in centers offering a specialized program of enhanced rehabilitation therapy in addition to expert outpatient care to 387 patients with PD, who only received expert outpatient care at movement disorders centers in Italy. Methods: The data are from subjects recruited in the Parkinson's Outcome Project (POP) at six Italian centers that are part of a multicenter collaboration for care quality improvement (the Fresco Network). The effects were measured with a baseline and a follow-up clinical evaluation of the Timed-Up-and-Go test (TUG), Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39), and Multidimensional Caregiver Strain Index (MCSI), the number of falls and hospitalizations for any cause. We used a generalized linear mixed model with the dependent variables being the response variable, which included the covariates demographics, evaluation, and treatment variables. Results: We found that the subjects who underwent specialized enhanced rehabilitation had a better motor outcome over time than those who were managed by expert neurologists but had participated in community programs for exercise and other allied health interventions. The greatest effects were seen in patients in the early stages of the disease with a high amount of vigorous exercise per week in the last six months. Similar effects were seen for PDQ39, MCSI, the number of falls, and hospitalization. Conclusions: Long-term benefits to motor function and the quality of life in patients with PD and burden reduction in their caregivers can be achieved through a systematic program of specialized enhanced rehabilitation interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A high prevalence of hypertension is found in Low- and Middle-income Countries (LMICs) including in Indonesia. However, hypertension awareness, treatment, and control are relativity poor. A community-based program to screen and educate people on non-communicable disease prevention (POSBINDU) was launched by the Indonesian government. However, the association between participation in the POSBINDU program with increasing knowledge, attitude, and practice of hypertension has not been widely assessed. In this study, we compared the knowledge, attitudes, and practices among people who accessed the POSBINDU and those who did not access the POSBINDU program. Subsequently, factors associated with the knowledge, attitudes, and practices among people who accessed the POSBINDU and those who did not access the POSBINDU were explored. Methods: This was an observational study with a cross-sectional design measuring the knowledge, attitudes, and practices for hypertension control in four districts in Indonesia from October 2019 to January 2020. A total of 1,988 respondents were included in this study. A questionnaire was used to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of hypertension. Simple logistic regression was used to investigate the correlation between the characteristics of respondents and knowledge, attitudes, and practice status. Multiple logistic regression tests were conducted to investigate factors associated with knowledge, attitudes, and practice status. Results: We found that people who accessed POSBINDU had higher odds of having better knowledge (aOR:1.4; 95%CI:1.2–1.8), however, accessed to POSBINDU was associated with lower attitudes (aOR:0.6; 85%CI: 0.5–0.7) and had no association with hypertension-related practice. Conclusion: People who accessed POSBINDU have an association with good knowledge, but the association with good attitude and practice was less clear. Therefore, an improvement in the POSBINDU program is needed to increase the attitudes and practices of hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Transportation plays a significant role in health, community resilience, and access to basic needs such as healthcare, social services, education, and job opportunities. Health and community resilience are, however, impacted by a multitude of complex and unequal factors, such as transportation restrictions exacerbated by the Israeli occupation. The goal of the research was to examine the intricate relationships that exist in Palestine between movement restrictions imposed by occupation, health outcomes, and community resilience. Method: A self-structured questionnaire, devised based on expert conversations and previous literature, was used in this descriptive, quantitative study to explore health and resilience outcomes. Age, gender, marital status, place of residence, and means of transportation were among the various factors that were utilized to describe the socio-demographics of the study sample (n = 202). The researchers employed stepwise multiple regression and descriptive statistics for the data analysis. Results: Study findings indicated that transportation restrictions have significant direct and indirect health consequences. A significant direct effect is observed, signifying a negative correlation between restrictions and health; increased transportation restrictions are consistently correlated with a decline in health. The study emphasized how place of residence affects health outcomes, with higher scores for campers and people living in green line areas. It also underscores that public means of transportation are found to be better for health outcomes than private cars. Conclusion: This study emphasized that roadblocks, checkpoints, and military incursions make it difficult for Palestinians to receive medical care, which has a detrimental impact on their health and well-being. It also underscores the need for significant reforms in Palestinian health and transportation systems to enhance infrastructure and healthcare access. The Palestinian Authority should invest in public transportation and community resilience programs to address transportation-related health issues, especially in villages, due to frequent settler attacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the high burden of perinatal depression in Nepal, the detection rate is low. Community-based strategies such as sensitization programmes and the Community Informant Detection Tool (CIDT) have been found to be effective in raising awareness and thus promoting the identification of mental health problems. This study aims to adapt these community strategies for perinatal depression in the Nepalese context. Methods: We followed a four-step process to adapt the existing community sensitization program manual and CIDT. Step 1 included in-depth interviews with women identified with perinatal depression (n=36), and focus group discussions were conducted with health workers trained in community mental health (n=13), female community health volunteers (FCHVs), cadre of Nepal government for the prevention and promotion of community maternal and child health (n=16), and psychosocial counsellors (n=5). We explored idioms and understanding of depression, perceived causes, and possible intervention. Step 2 included draft preparation based on the qualitative study. Step 3 included a one-day workshop with the psychosocial counsellors (n=2) and health workers (n=12) to assess the understandability and comprehensiveness of the draft and to refine the content. A review of the CIDT and community sensitization program manual by a psychiatrist was performed in Step 4. Results: The first step led to the content development for the CIDT and community sensitization manual. Multiple stakeholders and experts reviewed and refined the content from the second to fourth steps. Idioms of depression and commonly cited risk factors were incorporated in the CIDT. Additionally, myths of perinatal depression and the importance of the role of family were added to the community sensitization manual. Conclusion: Both the CIDT and community sensitization manual are grounded in the local context and are simple, clear, and easy to understand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aim: This study was conducted to evaluate the results of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) screenings conducted in a region of İstanbul between 2018 and 2023. Materials and methods: This descriptive study was conducted between April 2018 and February 2023 among 25,839 children aged between 18–36 months who had been screened for autism spectrum disorder in Sultanbeyli, İstanbul. Children between 18–36 months are examined and a form consisting of 5 questions and typical symptoms of ASD is filled. Each question is answered as yes or no. Answering yes to at least one of the questions is sufficient to direct them to child psychiatry. Results: Between 2018 and 2023, a total of 25,839 children were screened for autism spectrum disorders, 1449 children were found to be at risk, and 88 were diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. According to the sex distribution of the children, the male:female ratio is 3.6:1. The 5-year prevalence was found to be 0.9%. With the effect of the pandemic between 2020 and 2021, screening rates have decreased and the number of diagnoses has decreased. The most common symptom among those diagnosed is delay in speaking, and the second is inability to make eye contact. Conclusion: Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disorder whose prevalence is increasing globally and for which early diagnosis is important. To recognize this disease, it is necessary to increase screening and raise awareness among families. This study will also shed light on future studies on this subject. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Teen dating violence (TDV) is a significant public health problem that can have lifelong consequences. Using a longitudinal, cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT), this study examines whether the Dating Matters comprehensive prevention model, implemented in middle school, prevented TDV and negative relationship behaviors and promoted positive relationship behaviors in high school (9th–11th grades), when compared with a standard of care intervention. Dating Matters includes programs for sixth to eighth grade youth and their parents, training for school staff, a youth communications program, and policy and data activities implemented in the community. Self-report survey data were collected from students in 46 middle schools that were randomly assigned to condition within site. Students completed two surveys (fall and spring) in each middle school grade and a single survey in the spring of each high school grade. This study examined self-reported TDV perpetration and victimization, use of negative conflict resolution strategies, and positive relationship skills in the high school follow-up. While varying patterns emerged, latent panel models demonstrated significant program effects for all outcomes. Dating Matters students reported 19% reduced risk for TDV perpetration, 24% reduced risk for TDV victimization, 7% reduced risk for use of negative conflict strategies, and 3% more use of positive relationship skills, on average across time and cohort, than standard of care students. On average, Dating Matters, implemented in middle school, continued to be more effective at reducing TDV perpetration, TDV victimization, and use of negative conflict resolution strategies in high school than an evidence-based comparison program. Trial Registration: clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01672541. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plain Language Summary: Cancer patient navigators work in diverse settings ranging from community‐based programs to comprehensive cancer centers to improve outcomes in underserved populations by eliminating barriers to timely cancer prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship in a culturally appropriate and competent manner.This article clarifies the roles and responsibilities of Entry, Intermediate, and Advanced level cancer patient navigators. The competencies described in this article apply to patient navigators, nurse navigators, and social work navigators.This article provides a resource for administrators to create job descriptions for navigators with specific levels of expertise and for patient navigators to advance their oncology careers and attain a higher level of expertise. The American Cancer Society National Navigation Roundtable Workforce Development Task Group clarifies how patient navigators' job roles vary based on level of expertise (Entry, Intermediate, or Advanced navigators). The article provides a resource for administrators to create job descriptions for navigators with specific levels of expertise and for patient navigators to advance their oncology careers and attain a higher level of expertise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earthquakes are one of the most terrible and catastrophic natural disasters, responsible for widespread infrastructure and population losses. This study presented an integrated procedure to assess seismic risk considering the seismic hazard, vulnerability, coping capacity and resilience in the seismically active area in Northern, Pakistan. High-resolution satellite imageries coupled with extensive field investigations have led to the creation of building footprints along with building typological information. Twenty-eight envisaging subfactors related to seismic hazard, physical, social and economic vulnerability accompanied by response and recovery were utilized for the evaluation of detail and comprehensive seismic risk map. Overriding the constraint of limited factors and using the rich vulnerability data on a local scale, a detailed risk assessment at high resolution is performed to identify sites prone to high seismic risk. Prepared with Arc GIS grid technology and Analytical Hierarchy Process, the seismic vulnerability map revealed that 1.8 km2 (6.4%) and 0.5 km2 (1.8%) of the total area have high to very high vulnerability. The final seismic risk map shows that villages including Chella Bandi, Dhanni Mysiba, Makri, Dherian Syedian, Ranjata, Baila Noor Shah, Taami, Middle Gojra, Lower Gojra, Rasheed Abad and Upper Chattar lie in high-risk class while Pilot, Madina Market area, Shahnara and Domail villages fall in very high class taking up an area of 1.8 km2 (6.4%). Seismic risk hotspots identified in this study can help decision-makers in prioritizing the deployment of funds and other resource allocation in these areas. This knowledge informs building codes and land use planning, guaranteeing higher building standards in seismically active areas. Critical structures in designated hotspots are the main focus of infrastructure design and retrofitting efforts can be aimed at improving their seismic resilience framework. Plans for emergency responses can be created taking into account possible effects in high-risk regions to enable effective and focused crisis management. Furthermore, these results impact public awareness campaigns, insurance plans, and community involvement programs to lessen the overall damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preventing mentor-mentee relationships from ending prematurely is important because an early or unanticipated closure could lead to negative youth outcomes. In this study, the reasons for premature closure of a community-based mentoring program for youth with a visual impairment (VI) are studied. Data from 44 prematurely ended mentor-mentee pairs were analyzed; all mentees (M age = 18.5, SD = 1.92) and 23 of the mentors had VI. Logbook data with two types of transcribed semi-structured interviews were thematically coded line-by-line. Frequencies of coded responses provided insight into the most frequently reported reasons and the most frequently reported problems. Chi-square analyses were conducted to study differences between matches in the two conditions (i.e., matches containing mentors with or without VI). Regardless of the condition, premature closure was primarily initiated by mentees, and the most common cause was reported to be due to deficiencies in mentors' relationship skills. Matches with a mentor with VI experienced more problems within one domain of the International Classification of Functioning (ICF) model. These results show that additional pre-match mentor and supplementary mentee training are needed to increase relationship success in mentoring programs serving youth with VI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health literacy is associated with health behaviors and outcomes. Using Andersen's Behavioral Model of Health Services Use, this study examined the role of limited English proficiency (LEP) and social support for the health literacy of Korean American immigrant women, one of the most affected groups by LEP. Researchers surveyed 232 Korean American immigrant women in a metro area in a Southeastern state, U.S. Health literacy was measured by the CDC Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Questionnaire and the California Health Interview Survey. Participants with better English proficiency and larger social support had higher health literacy. LEP and social support interaction was significantly associated with health literacy, illustrating social support as a buffer that mitigates the negative impact of LEP on health literacy. Community programs that enhance social support through community health advocates or peer educators may increase health literacy and reduce health disparities among Korean American immigrant women with LEP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Chicago Police Department's community policing program partners with several LGBTQ service providers in and around Chicago's white middle class "gayborhood." These organizations make strange bedfellows for law enforcement, given that many of their clients are queer and trans people of color (QTPOC) and, indeed, targets of policing and gentrification projects. This study draws on eighteen months of ethnography and in-depth interviews to examine motivations and consequences of these inter-agency unions. The study finds that non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are incorporated into racialized policing strategies through mechanisms ranging from contractual agreement to implicit expectation. While NGOs resist directly criminalizing their QTPOC clients, some discourage them from lingering around service centers, effectively making them invisible in the white gayborhood. Findings demonstrate that in a post-welfare police state, sexual health governance is racially and economically circumscribed, as well as mediated, by institutional intimacies between governmental and non-governmental agencies. I argue that LGBTQ service provision is situated within a multilevel monitoring system, a structure I term "serv/eillance." Providing services to LGBTQ+POC becomes conditioned on state surveillance, while receiving services is conditioned on being surveilled, by police or by proxy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Community-based conservation has been increasingly recognized as critical to achieve both conservation and socio-economic development goals worldwide. However, the long-term sustainability of community-based conservation programs is dependent on a broadly shared perception among community members that management actions are achieving their stated goals. Thus, understanding the underlying factors driving differences in perceptions of management effectiveness can help managers prioritize the processes and outcomes most valued by resource users and thereby promote sustained support for conservation efforts. Here, we utilize large-scale interview survey data and machine learning to identify the factors most strongly associated with differences in perceived management effectiveness between resource users engaged in marine community-based conservation programs in Kenya and Tanzania. Perceptions of management effectiveness were generally favorable in both countries, and the most important predictors of positive perceptions were associated with community and individual empowerment in resource management and use, but within disparate focal domains. Improved perceptions of management effectiveness in Kenya were closely related to increases in women's empowerment in community-based conservation programs, while inclusionary and transparent governance structures were the most important factors driving improved perceptions in Tanzania. Additionally, the strongest predictors of differences between individuals in both countries often interacted synergistically to produce even higher rates of perceived effectiveness. These findings can help future initiatives in the region tailor management to match community-level priorities and emphasize the need for community-based conservation programs to understand local context to ensure that metrics of "success" are aligned with the needs and desires of local resource users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pregnancy presents a critical period for any maternal and child health intervention that may impact the health of the newborn. With low antenatal care attendance by pregnant women in health facilities in Nigeria, community-based programs could enable increased reach for health education about sickle cell disease (SCD) and newborn screening (NBS) among pregnant women. This pilot study aimed to assess the effect of education on the knowledge about SCD and NBS among pregnant women using the Healthy Beginning Initiative, a community-based framework. Methods: A pre-post study design was used to evaluate knowledge of SCD and NBS in a convenience sample of 89 consenting pregnant women from three communities. Participants were given surveys prior to and following completion of a health education session. McNemar's test was used to compare the proportion of participants with correct responses. The level of significance was taken as p < 0.05. Results: Compared to pre-test values, post-test values showed that participants understood that SCD is hereditary (93.3% vs. 69.7%), both parents must have at least one gene for someone to have SCD (98.9% vs. 77.5) and blood test is the right way to know if one has SCD (98.8% vs. 78.7%). Also, a large proportion of participants (post-test ~ 89.9%; compared to pre-test ~ 23.6%) understood that the chance of conceiving a child with SCD was 25% for a couple with the sickle cell trait (SCT). Knowledge of the possibility of diagnosing SCD shortly after birth was highly increased in the post test phase of the study when compared to the pre-test phase (93.3% vs. 43.9%, respectively). Concerning the overall knowledge scores, those with high level of knowledge significantly increase from 12.6% pretest to 87.4% posttest (p = 0.015). Conclusion: The health education intervention was associated with significant improvement on almost all measures of SCD knowledge. Focused health education for pregnant women using community structures can improve knowledge of SCD and NBS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large-scale, evidence-based interventions face challenges to program fidelity of implementation. We developed implementation strategies to support teachers implementing an evidence-based HIV prevention program in schools, Focus on Youth in The Caribbean (FOYC) and Caribbean Informed Parents and Children Together (CImPACT) in The Bahamas. We examined the effects of these implementation strategies on teachers' implementation in the subsequent year after the initial implementation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were collected from 79 Grade 6 teachers in 24 government elementary schools. Teachers completed training workshops and a pre-implementation questionnaire to record their characteristics and perceptions that might affect their program fidelity. School coordinators and peer mentors provided teachers with monitoring, feedback, and mentoring. In Year 1, teachers on average taught 79.3% of the sessions and 80.8% of core activities; teachers in Year 2 covered 84.2% of sessions and 72.9% of the core activities. Teachers with "good" or "excellent" school coordinators in the second year taught significantly more sessions on average (7.8 vs. 7.0, t = 2.04, P < 0.05) and more core activities (26.3 vs. 23.0, t = 2.41, P < 0.05) than teachers with "satisfactory" coordinators. Teachers who had a "good" or "satisfactory" mentor taught more sessions than teachers who did not have a mentor (7.9 vs. 7.3; t = 2.22; P = 0.03). Two-level mixed-effects model analysis indicated that teachers' program fidelity in Year 1, confidence in the execution of core activities, and school coordinators' performance were significantly associated with Year 2 implementation dose. Implementation of FOYC + CImPACT was significantly associated with improved student outcomes. Teachers maintained high fidelity to a comprehensive HIV prevention program over 2 years during the COVID-19 pandemic. Future program implementers should consider additional implementation support to improve the implementation of school-based programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Libraries are currently undergoing a significant transformation, emerging as dynamic advocates for environmental sustainability, surpassing their conventional roles as mere repositories of knowledge. In today's world, dominated by the growing climate crisis, these evolving institutions are poised to play a pivotal role in addressing climate change. However, they confront a range of challenges, including the need to establish sustainable operations, provide accessible climate information, engage diverse audiences and uphold ethical standards. Design/methodology/approach: The research methodology used for this study involves an extensive review of literature. The authors analyze existing studies concerning green libraries and their role as catalysts for climate change action globally. This analysis draws from a variety of scholarly sources, encompassing articles, books and reports, to provide a comprehensive overview of the subject. Findings: The findings indicate that despite the aforementioned challenges, libraries in developed countries worldwide have demonstrated noteworthy success through initiatives such as green building projects, community engagement programs, collaborative partnerships, expansion of digital resources, innovative climate literacy initiatives and a commitment to ethical stewardship. These achievements serve as a source of inspiration, fostering hope and spurring action as libraries empower communities to embrace environmental stewardship. They showcase the potential of libraries as catalysts for positive environmental change. Originality/value: The originality and value of this research lie in its insights into the potential of green libraries initiative as a catalyst for climate change action. Ultimately, this study opens the door to untold literary exploration, revolutionizing the art of green library capacity in the ever-evolving technological landscape. To augment their impact, libraries are encouraged to broaden the scope of their climate education initiatives, expand their digital resources, cultivate strategic collaborations, prioritize ethical responsibility and implement thorough evaluation and communication practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the efficacy of an 8-week (two sessions/week; 60 min/session) adapted soccer intervention on skill performance and retention in 30 adults (18 men and 12 women) ages 17–40 years with autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, and intellectual disability. Of these 30 participants, 18 completed a 1-month retention test. The program included behavior supports and adaptations for participants with varying levels of behavioral needs. Dribbling, kicking a moving ball, kicking a stationary ball, throw-ins, trapping, and a composite skill score were examined. Linear mixed-effect regression revealed a significant time main effect with improvements from pretest to posttest and pretest to retention for all skills. In addition, modest offline gains (i.e., posttest < retention) were observed for throw-ins, kicking a moving ball, and the composite skill score. A significant main effect of diagnosis was observed such that participants with autism spectrum disorder had better performance on kicking a moving ball than those with Down syndrome and intellectual disability. Finally, a significant main effect of level of function was observed. This program enabled adults with various disabilities to acquire fundamental soccer skills that may lead to meaningful participation in community soccer programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The role of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in advanced sigmoid colon carcinoma remains to be further characterized. Rationale for NAC includes downstaging on final pathology and optimization of microscopically negative margins (R0 resection). We investigated rates of neoadjuvant chemotherapy use in advanced sigmoid colon cancer at academic cancer centers and assessed factors associated with likelihood of NAC administration. Methods: The National Cancer Database was queried from 2004 to 2017 for patients with clinical T3 or T4, N0-2, M0 sigmoid colon cancer who underwent surgical resection. Those with neoadjuvant radiation or metastatic disease were excluded. The outcomes of patients who did and did not receive neoadjuvant chemotherapy were evaluated for this retrospective cohort study. Results: There were 23,597 patients of whom 364 (1.5%) received NAC. More patients received NAC at academic (41%, P <.001) and high-volume centers (27%, P <.001). Patients with Medicare/Medicaid (39%) and private insurance (52%) were more likely to receive NAC (P <.001). There was a significantly higher rate of N2 to N1 downstaging in the NAC group. Propensity-score matching demonstrated comprehensive community cancer programs (CCCP) were less likely to provide NAC (OR 0.4; 95% CI 0.23, 0.70, P <.001). There was no difference in survival (P =.20), R0 resection (P =.090), or 30-day readmission rates (P =.30) in the NAC cohort compared to the non-NAC cohort. Conclusions: Access to centers offering multi-disciplinary care with NAC prior to surgical resection is important. This care was associated with academic and high-volume centers and private or government-sponsored insurance. There was no difference in survival between NAC and non-NAC cohort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Community integration following the experience of chronic homelessness is a key principle of Housing First programming, yet it is scantily addressed or studied. Originally developed in New York, the Restorative Community Collaborative program shows promise in building meaningful community integration and improving outcomes among individuals who have experienced chronic homelessness. This convergent mixed-method study describes outcomes for this adapted program implemented in Houston, Texas by a social service agency in collaboration with local congregations. The program increased participant empowerment and beneficial community connection among all stakeholders (participants, volunteers and mentors). Lessons for future implementation of such programs is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective/Research Question: This practitioner-scholar study investigated perceptions and experiences of community college students who transferred upon completion of their associate degree programs in Colorado, a state with multiple state-level transfer policies. Each student participated in a cohort-based transfer support program offered at their community college. The research questions were: 1. Do community college students who participated in transfer programing while earning their associate degree perceive that it helped prepare them for successful transfer? 2. Do community college students perceive that their courses prepared them to be successful at a university? 3. What are the perceptions and experiences of community college students who transferred upon completion of their associate degree programs within a context of a state with multiple transfer policy initiatives? Methods: This study used a phenomenological approach and qualitative data collection methods. Results: While students believed their community colleges prepared them academically, and their transfer preparation programing was beneficial, their reflections highlight that regardless of support provided, academic preparation, or policy context, transfer from community college to university is challenging, problematic, and bureaucratic. Often community college students are viewed with a deficit lens by university staff. Conclusions/Contributions: Regardless of state policy context, transfer preparation, and support, obstacles encountered in the transfer process from community college to university must be negotiated through relationships and advocacy both on the part of college staff and the students themselves. However, students who transfer from a college with dedicated transfer support and preparation demonstrate resilience to complete the process successfully. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilizing Yosso's community cultural wealth framework as a theoretical lens, we sought to examine how nontraditional, community-based family engagement programs impacted adult family members' thoughts and actions about engagement with their children's schools. The study drew primarily from the interviews, observations, and document analysis of two nontraditional family engagement programs in urban communities. Findings indicate that program approaches built upon and extended families' social and navigational capitals. Educational leaders can more meaningfully engage urban families by learning from and incorporating practices implemented by the programs we examine and discuss in this article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2013, 36 Ancestors of African descent were identified in an unmarked eighteenth-century burial ground during construction in Charleston, South Carolina. The site, later referred to as the Anson Street African Burial Ground, was buried beneath the growing city and forgotten in the centuries that followed. The ethical treatment of these ancestral remains was of paramount importance to our community. Historically, narratives relating to the lives of African descendant people in Charleston have been inadequately documented and shared. For these reasons, we engaged the local African American community in a multifaceted memorialization process. Together, we sought to sensitively ensure that the Ancestors' identities and lives were fully explored according to the collective descendant community's wishes. To this end, we involved the community in researching and celebrating the Ancestors' lives through arts and education programs and analyzed their and community members' DNA to elucidate their ancestry. Our engagement initiatives increased access for all ages to archaeological, historical, and genetic research and encouraged active participation in the design of a permanent memorial. The Anson Street African Burial Ground Project provides a successful example of community-engaged activist archaeology focused on honoring the Ancestors and their descendants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One way to support productivity and economic recovery amid the Covid-19 pandemic is through community empowerment in the form of entrepreneurial initiatives that can enhance living standards and create new job opportunities for the populace. Jurang Blimbing is one of the areas blessed with natural potential and strategically located in the vicinity of Universitas Diponegoro campus. Moreover, within Jurang Blimbing, there is potential among the youth who are part of the Ikatan Kawula Muda (Ikada). The desire for entrepreneurship has emerged among the young people of Jurang Blimbing through their efforts in producing screen-printed shirts using the transfer paper method. Unfortunately, these efforts have not yet yielded optimal, effective, and sustainable results. However, the potential resources available can be well optimized to improve the community's economy. The aim of this program is to nurture the creativity of Ikada members in entrepreneurial product innovation through ecoprint training utilizing natural materials. The implementation method of this program involves data collection through interviews, observation, literature review, internal simulation, training, mentoring, and product development. Data collection involves seeking information related to the economy, social aspects, and cultural aspects of the partner region. Product development simulation includes trial and error to determine the appropriate tools, materials, and ecoprint production techniques to implement, thus producing high-quality and marketable ecoprint products. Ecoprint training and production are conducted using pounding and steaming methods. The results of this community service program can increase knowledge and motivation among the populace by 80%. It is hoped that this program will foster creativity, entrepreneurial spirit, and enhance the productivity of Ikada Jurang Blimbing in entrepreneurship, thus addressing economic challenges amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective HIV prevention option for those who are most vulnerable to HIV infection, especially young women (YW). Objection by or lack of support from male sexual partners has been shown to impact YW's ability to take PrEP consistently. We explored the views of YW, and male partners and male peers of YW in Siaya County, Western Kenya, to illustrate how men influence, and can support, YW in using PrEP. Methods: We used Photovoice to capture the views of YW ages 18–24 who were currently or previously enrolled in the DREAMS program and with current or previous experience taking PrEP. We also captured the views of YW's sexual partners and male peers. The YW completed eight photo assignments that focused on identifying factors influencing their PrEP use, and male participants completed four photo assignments focused on identifying ways men support or hinder YW's PrEP use. Photographs were presented and discussed in same- and mixed-gender groups using the SHOWeD method. YW also participated in in-depth interviews. The analysis focused on identifying themes that described men's influence on YW's PrEP adherence and persistence. Results: Among YW, a restricting male influence on PrEP use emerged in the majority of photo assignments such that YW's photographs and discussions revealed that men were more often viewed as barriers than supporters. YW perceived that they had little autonomy over their sexual lives and choice to use PrEP. YW's PrEP use was perceived to be hindered by stigmatizing community narratives that influenced men's support of PrEP use among women. Male participants suggested that men would support YW's PrEP use if PrEP was better promoted in the community and if men were more knowledgeable about its benefits. Conclusions: A lack of support from male partners and peers and stigmatizing community narratives influence YW's PrEP use. Community-based programs should include education about PrEP specifically for male partners and peers of YW to positively influence PrEP use among YW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the uncontested benefits of physical activity, its promotion lags behind in the public health agenda of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). School-based interventions are promising strategies to foster health during childhood, but evidence of their effectiveness is limited and inconclusive for LMICs. Thus, further investigation is needed on contextual factors associated with intervention implementation in low-resource settings. We studied the acceptability and feasibility of the KaziKidz health promotion intervention and its implementation and make recommendations to improve future adoption and sustainability. Methods: KaziKidz was implemented in four primary schools from low-income communities in South Africa in 2019. Semi-structured interviews with four school principals, three focus group interviews with 16 educators, and another three with 16 caregivers were conducted between October and November 2021. Participants were purposively recruited. Interview transcripts were analyzed via thematic analysis using a deductive and reflexive approach. Results: Three main themes influencing intervention implementation and adoption were identified: (1) prioritizing teachers' needs (2), integrating the program into the school structure, and (3) creating opportunities in the community. Supporting recommendations included: (theme 1) adopting intervention approaches that are inclusive of educators' health and providing them with capacity development and external support; (theme 2) fostering a feeling of ownership and belonging among school stakeholders to adapt interventions to specific resources and needs; and (theme 3) raising community awareness to encourage individuals to claim power over and actively engage with the program. Conclusions: Comprehensive interventions comprising health support, adequate training, and ongoing assistance for educators combined with school-wide and community outreach actions seeking to strengthen program ownership, accountability, and engagement can enhance uptake of school-based interventions and long-term maintenance. Trial registration: ISRCTN15648510, registered on 17/04/2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Effective health promotion responds to the unique needs of communities. Community granting programs that fund community-driven health promotion initiatives are a potential mechanism to meet those unique needs. While numerous community health-focused programs are available, the various strategies used by granting programs to foster engagement, administer grants and support awardees have not been systematically evaluated. This rapid systematic review explores the administration of community granting programs and how various program components impact process and population health outcomes. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across three databases: Medline, SocINDEX, and Political Science Database. Single reviewers completed screening, consistent with a rapid review protocol. Studies describing or evaluating community granting programs for health or public health initiatives were included. Data regarding program characteristics were extracted and studies were evaluated for quality. A convergent integrated approach was used to analyze quantitative and qualitative findings. Results: Thirty-five community granting programs, described in 36 studies, were included. Most were descriptive reports or qualitative studies conducted in the USA. Program support for grant awardees included technical assistance, workshops and training, program websites, and networking facilitation. While most programs reported on process outcomes, few reported on community or health outcomes; such outcomes were positive when reported. Programs reported that many funded projects were likely sustainable beyond program funding, due to the development of awardee skills, new partnerships, and securing additional funding. From the perspectives of program staff and awardees, facilitators included the technical assistance and workshops provided by the programs, networking amongst awardees, and the involvement of community members. Barriers included short timelines to develop proposals and allocate funds. Conclusions: This review provides a comprehensive overview of health-related community granting programs. Grant awardees benefit from technical assistance, workshops, and networking with other awardees. Project sustainability is enhanced by the development of new community partnerships and grant-writing training for awardees. Community granting programs can be a valuable strategy to drive community health, with several key elements that enhance community mobilization. Registration: PROSPERO #CRD42023399364. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the nature and local people's perceptions of human-crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) conflicts (HCCs) for the period 2007 to 2016 in Kariba town, northern Zimbabwe. A mixed-method approach was used with 150 local fish folks interviewed between July and October 2017 through face-to-face interviews and secondary data on HCC were retrieved from the wildlife authority's records. In contrast to the general perception from fish folks that there was an increase in HCC, secondary data analysis showed no significant trends of crocodile attacks on people for the period under study. HCC was mainly driven by fishing activities which exposed people to crocodile attacks. The study concludes that despite the recorded non-increasing trend in HCCs, HCC is a major conservation issue in Kariba town given enhanced human–wildlife interactions due to the economic needs for local livelihoods. Community educational programs are recommended as a way to manage HCC and close gaps between the conventional scientific and local knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The available literature has ignored farmers' perceptions on the benefits and drawbacks of adopting climate-smart agriculture (CSA) in favor of focusing primarily on profitability and economic constraints. We use the Ethiopian Socioeconomic Survey (ESS) and the General Household Survey from 2018 and 2019 to compare Nigeria and Ethiopia, both of which have sizable rural populations to assess farmers' climate change perception and their adaptation options in promoting CSA. We first hypothesize that farmers with high tolerance for risk and stable financial resources are more likely to adopt CSA techniques, relying on the adopter perception theory of agricultural innovations and technologies. We address potential selection bias using the Heckman selection model, and estimate our data using multinomial logistic estimator, as well as standard logistic regression for robustness checks. We find that in both Ethiopia and Nigeria, household income and plot size influence farmers' adaptations to climate change mitigation practices. However, farmers with bigger plots who run the risk of massive production loss tend to adopt measures of coping with climate change. We show that in both Ethiopia and Nigeria, rural farmers' adaptation decisions are heavily influenced by agricultural extension programs and community social networks. Overall, our work highlights the important role of income, farm size, and climate-related information for investing in climate-smart agricultural methods to curb food insecurity in Sub-Saharan Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]