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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]

Context : In March 2020, public health concerns resulted in school closure throughout the United States . The prolonged sport cessation may affect knee injury risk in high school athletes. The purpose of this study was to describe and compare risk of knee injuries in high school athletes during 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 academic years, and stratify by gender, severity, mechanism of injury, injury type, and knee anatomic region . Design : Historical-prospective cohort study . Methods : This historical- prospective cohort study included 176 schools in 6 states matched by sport participation in control and COVID years from July 1, 2019 to June 30,2021. Injury rates per 1000 athletes per year were calculated with 95% confidence intervals. A negative binomial regression was performed to assess potential differences in knee injuries between academic years . Results: 94, 847 and 72,521 high school athletes participated in the 2019-2020(19-20) and 2020-2021 (20-21) seasons. Knee injury risk was higher in the 20-21 season (19-20: 28.89% [27.82-29.96-]; 20-21: 33.82% [32.50-35.14]). Risk increased for male athletes from 2019- 2020 to 2020-2021 (19-20: 29.42% [28.01-30.83]; 20-21 : 40.32% [38.89-41.75]). Female knee injury risk was similar between years (19-20: 25.78% [24.29-27.27]; 20-21: 26.03% [24.31-27.75]). Knee injuries increased by a ratio of 1.2 ([95% CI, 1.1- 1.3], P <.001) during 2020-2021. Conclusions,· Knee injury risk and relative risk increased among males in 2020-2021. Results indicate changes in knee injury risk following return from COVID shelter in place among high school athletes and implicate potential negative downstream effects of interrupted sports training and participation on high school injury risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Period poverty, which is the lack of access to menstrual products, is a public health issue and impacts one in ten college students. Not having access to necessary products results in consequences like missing classes or job shifts and can also lead to an increase in depression and anxiety. However, despite this being a prominent issue on college campuses, there is little awareness and support offered to students experiencing this challenge. This column addresses why it is critical that more awareness is brought to this issue, why academic libraries should play an important role in addressing this issue and discuss different ways library administration can show support for this public health issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Burnout and absenteeism are prevalent among healthcare workers, reflecting prolonged work-related stress and dissatisfaction with their job. Identifying poor sleep as a contributing factor can assist in developing targeted interventions. This study explored the relationship between burnout, absenteeism, and sleep among healthcare workers. A nationwide online cross-sectional study was conducted among healthcare professionals in France during the third wave of COVID-19, from May 2021 to June 2021. Recruitment strategies included outreach through social and professional networks and email invitations. Burnout was assessed using the Maslach Burnout Inventory, absenteeism through self-reported days absent in the preceding 12 months, and sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. The association between burnout, absenteeism, and poor sleep was analyzed using multivariate logistic regression, accounting for individual and professional variables. The study also explored various sleep dimension abnormalities. Of 10,087 healthcare workers, 55.2 % reported burnout, 20.5 % absenteeism, and 64.8 % poor sleep. Burnout and absenteeism were more frequent in individuals with poor sleep compared to those with good sleep (74.2 % vs. 25.8 % and 75.6 % vs. 24.4 %, respectively). The multivariate analyses confirmed the associations between burnout, absenteeism, and poor sleep (Adjusted Odds Ratio [aOR] = 2.15, 95 % CI [1.97–2.35], p < 0.001; and aOR = 1.49, 95 % CI [1.32–1.67], p < 0.001, respectively). The study highlighted the intricate relationship between burnout, absenteeism, and poor sleep among healthcare professionals, informing workforce management and policy decisions to foster a supportive work environment and enhance their well-being. • Out of 10,087 healthcare professionals, a concerning 55.2% reported experiencing burnout, with 20.5% indicating absenteeism. • Multivariate analyses confirmed the links between burnout, absenteeism, and sleep disturbances. • Poor sleep was associated with burnout (aOR = 2.15, 95% CI [1.97-2.35]) and absenteeism (aOR = 1.49, 95% CI [1.32-1.67]). • This research sheds light on the intricate ties between burnout, sleep quality, and absenteeism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rates of hospitalizations and emergency department (ED) visits due to self-harm are important indicators for understanding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health. The objective of this study was to assess changes in self-harm hospitalizations and ED visits in Canada during the first two years of the pandemic. Rates of self-harm hospitalizations and ED visits during the pandemic were predicted based on regression analyses that modeled trends over a 5-year pre-pandemic period from fiscal year 2015 to 2019. The ratios of observed and model predicted (expected) rates in 2020 and 2021 were estimated separately to assess changes during the pandemic. Overall, rates of self-harm hospitalizations and ED visits were lower than expected during the pandemic, especially in 2020. In 2021, rates for females returned to near-expected levels; but they remained lower than expected for males. Females aged 10–14 years had higher than expected rates. The rate ratio of observed rate over expected rate was 1.2 in 2020 but further increased to 1.8 in 2021 for both hospitalizations and ED visits. Higher than expected rates were also observed among females aged 15–19 years in 2021 only. Suicide attempts and non-suicidal self-harm cases could not be distinguished. We observed lower than or close to expected rates of self-harm hospitalizations and ED visits during the pandemic for most population groups. The increased rates for young females highlights the importance of continued surveillance post-pandemic and targeted mental health services and suicide prevention programs. • This study assessed changes in self-harm hospitalizations and ED visits in Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic. • In 2020, overall rates of self-harm hospitalizations and ED visits were lower than expected. • In 2021, rates for females returned to near-expected levels; but they remained lower than expected for males. • Females aged 10–19 years had increased rates during the pandemic, especially for females aged 10–14 years in 2021. • The findings highlight the importance of continuing surveillance post-pandemic and targeted mental health services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interventions restricting temporal and spatial availability of alcohol are associated with reduced harm, but the pathways by which specific interventions have impact are poorly understood. We examined mechanisms of impact from the perspective of diverse licensing stakeholders. Fifty-three in-depth interviews were conducted with licensing stakeholders (from public health teams [PHTs], police, local authority licensing teams and lawyers, and alcohol premises licensing committees) from 20 local government areas. Interviewees were recruited as part of the Exploring the impact of alcohol licensing in England and Scotland (ExILEnS) study. Data were analyzed thematically and preliminary themes/subthemes were discussed during online groups with a different sample of public health and licensing professionals (n = 10). Most interviewees struggled to articulate how availability interventions might lead to changes in alcohol consumption or harms. Five overarching mechanisms were identified: access, visibility, premises and area-level norms, affordability, and management of the night-time economy, with specific pathways identified for certain subgroups/premises types. The mechanisms by which alcohol availability interventions may impact on alcohol consumption and harms are diverse, but were poorly understood. These findings will inform licensing and availability policy and advocacy, highlighting the need for further scrutiny of the evidence underpinning identified mechanisms, and primary research to address knowledge gaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Methods Results Conclusions Expanding HIV testing beyond specialized services has been a key strategic approach to eliminating the transmission of HIV. In recent years, dental settings have been identified as offering an opportunity for delivering point of care HIV testing (POCT) interventions. Intervention components and implementation strategies have varied across studies and there is uncertainty about the prevalence of undiagnosed HIV in the dental patient population. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to synthesize the HIV testing outcomes of intervention studies, identify the core components of POCT interventions implemented in dental settings; and understand the barriers and facilitators to intervention implementation.A mixed‐methods systematic review was undertaken. Two authors reviewed abstracts and full papers for inclusion and appraised the studies using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. A convergent integrated mixed methods study design underpinned the synthesis. Outcomes were presented using descriptive statistics. Intervention components were mapped to the Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) checklist. Barriers and facilitators were described using a narrative thematic analysis.POCT was offered to 22 146 dental patients, 62.5% accepted POCT. Intervention studies that reported higher uptake of testing utilized a dedicated dental or researcher staff member to provide testing, integrated testing and provided results within the routine dental appointment and adopted a provider‐initiated universal approach to offering testing. Six themes emerged that were pertinent to the barriers and facilitators to HIV testing in dental setting.POCT uptake in dental settings was comparable with other non‐specialized health settings. Key to the operationalization of the intervention were perceptions about its value and relevance to the dental patient population, attitudes toward the intervention, logistical barriers to its implementation, the risk of HIV testing stigma to the patient‐practitioner relationship and maximising the fit of the intervention within the constraints of the dental setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the findings from the United Kingdom's (UK's) first in‐depth exploration of the impacts of Covid‐19 on children at each stage of the youth justice system. Based on interviews with 140 youth justice professionals, participatory research with 40 children in custody and in the community, and a survey of all 157 youth offending teams in England and Wales, the research demonstrates that the pandemic increased the vulnerabilities of justice‐involved children; children who are routinely exposed to health anxieties, instability and inequalities, adverse experiences in the home, systemic racism and school exclusion. Professionals and children reported an increase in mental health illnesses such as anxiety and depression due to range of intersecting factors such as isolation, lack of socialising, lack of routine, lack of physical activity and poor sleep patterns. Post‐pandemic, there is an urgent need for a systemic commitment to addressing the mental health vulnerabilities of justice‐involved children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Anaemia is a multifactorial condition and understanding its prevalence and associated factors is crucial for effective healthcare planning and interventions. The aim of this study was to explore the prevalence of anaemia during pregnancy and its potential risk factors in Oman. Methods: A retrospective approach was used to identify anaemia cases by examining medical records taken from 9321 women who gave birth at the hospital over 3 years. Chi-squared tests were used to establish differences in risk factors using a case-control design, with a 1:2 ratio. Results: The crude prevalence of anaemia was 31.2%, dropping to 4.9% after excluding women with chronic and/or acute diseases. Significant differences were found in nationality (χ2=4.738, P=0.030), body mass index (χ2=6.392, P=0.041) and gestational age (χ2=4.329, P=0.037) for women with anaemia compared to those without. Conclusions: These findings underscore the significance of assessing and managing anaemia in pregnancy, while considering the interaction of demographic and clinical variables in formulating anaemia prevention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The study goal was to inform the creation of a blueprint for an advanced practice nurse (APN) in public health. Background: No internationally accepted standard for an APN in public health exists. Activities of public health nurses (PHN) traditionally have centered on health promotion and disease prevention, but many have added other population‐based activities such as chronic and acute disease treatment. Introduction: An APN in public health is needed to address the global challenges threatening the physical, social, and mental health of populations worldwide. Methods: This qualitative study was comprised of six focus groups, each containing a different group of stakeholders (n = 40). Study results followed the requirements of the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ). Findings: Two major themes emerged: the APN role in public health and core expectations. From the APN role theme, four subthemes emerged on APN domains of public health practice and functions. From the core expectations theme, nine subthemes emerged on the APN's qualifications and behaviors. Discussion: Agreement among stakeholders was found in the nine core expectations; however, among the four different visions of an APN in public health, two fit a population‐based model rather than the traditional PHN model. Conclusions: A single APN role in public health is insufficient to address the breadth and complexity of today's global challenges as detailed by the sustainable development goals. Due to the interaction between health and the biopsychosocial environments, we need APNs with different areas of expertise. Implication for nursing policy: Nurses working at universities, in public health services, and as healthcare policymakers are needed to create a multistage strategy that gradually introduces several different types of APNs in public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the World Health Organization, a clean, safe, and healthy environment is essential for children to develop and thrive. Environmental insults to human health and well-being take on many forms, including environmental contaminants, lack of sanitation, socioeconomic concerns, and climate change factors--to which children are at heightened vulnerability. Supportive interventions in children's environmental health will affect not only the future lives of children but also the lives of families and communities. Translating knowledge to action provides a path forward in efforts to protect children. The 12 critical competencies developed by Del Rio et al. (2023) outlined an interdisciplinary approach to grappling with environmental health threats to children. These associated performance indicators map the proficiencies needed for competent performance in the public health sector and accurate assessment of environmental threats to children's health. The performance indicators for each critical competency were developed and intended as a guide for education and training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous cities are experimenting with pre-booking diversion programs that allow police officers to divert community members to supportive services in instances that would otherwise result in arrest and prosecution. These programs aim to decrease harmful involvement with the criminal justice system while reducing crime and public disorder. Although previous research has explored the experiences of people receiving diversion referrals and of police officers initiating them, none have examined the perspectives of community members who can offer crucial insights into planning, evaluation, and implementation barriers. We administered a survey to 293 people living in four police districts where the Philadelphia Police Department operates a pre-booking diversion program. The survey explored residents' perspectives on the program as well as their broader views on associated issues like decriminalization of substance use, sex work, and minor theft. Bivariate χ2 tests and multivariate logistic regression examined differences in responses between subgroups. Perspectives were diverse and varied based on demographic attributes of the respondents as well as on district-level attributes, like crime patterns. Most surveyed community members perceived pre-booking diversion to be a valuable tool for improving the experiences and outcomes of policing. However, residents living in areas with more crime and with more public disorder held significantly less positive perspectives. Their skepticism may reflect the possibility that pre-booking diversion and similar reforms are necessary but not sufficient to transforming individual health and public safety in some areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolving virtual health care experience highlights the potential of technology to serve as a way to enhance care. Having virtual options for assessment, consultation and intervention were essential during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, especially for children with disabilities and their families. The purpose of our study was to describe the benefits and challenges of outpatient virtual care during the pandemic within pediatric rehabilitation. This qualitative study, part of a larger mixed methods project, involved in-depth interviews with 17 participants (10 parents, 2 youth, 5 clinicians) from a Canadian pediatric rehabilitation hospital. We analyzed the data using a thematic approach. Our findings demonstrated three main themes: (1) benefits of virtual care (e.g., continuity of care, convenience, stress reduction and flexibility, and comfort within the home environment and enhanced rapport); (2) challenges related to virtual care (e.g., technical difficulties and lack of technology, environmental distractions and constraints, communication difficulty, and health impacts); and (3) advice for the future of virtual care (i.e., offering choice to families, enhanced communication and addressing health equity issues). Clinicians and hospital leaders should consider addressing the modifiable barriers in accessing and delivering virtual care to optimize its effectiveness. Families are invested in access to virtual care appointments and can benefit from clear communication about choices regarding appointment options and supports in how to access and use technology for equitable access to care. Hospitals should aim to provide clinicians with an appropriate workspace (i.e., private, quiet with adequate room to demonstrate what they need to do), equipment and technology to have virtual care appointments. Current understanding of virtual care delivery suggests a tailored approach, with some types of appointments, such as follow-ups or check-ins, more suited to this modality than other more hands-on therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article analyzes the media coverage of the first wave of the COVID-19 crisis. The analysis of 213 items from leading TV channels and newspapers revealed four main themes characterising the: coverage of the establishment's preparations, coverage of morbidity, criticism of the establishment, and information provision. By and large, the media acted as a 'mobilized press', encouraging the public to follow guidelines, but criticism of certain sectors of the public and individuals was almost absent. The article demonstrates that the phenomenon of 'rallying around the flag' is common in both security and health crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Historically, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was conceptualised as a disorder of childhood that gradually improved and diminished as individuals transitioned to adulthood. Over the past decade, several studies have been published describing a cohort of adolescents with a childhood diagnosis of ADHD experiencing a continuity of ADHD symptoms into adulthood. Untreated ADHD in adults is associated with personal relationship difficulties, educational and occupational underachievement, comorbid mental health problems, substance misuse, and increased rates of road traffic accidents and criminality. These result in an increased economic burden and broader public health challenges. This review outlines the current framework and stage of development of ADHD services for adults in the Republic of Ireland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: "Herd immunity" became a contested term during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Although the term "herd immunity" is often used to refer to thresholds at which some diseases can be eliminated (e.g., due to mass vaccination), the term has multiple referents. Different concepts of herd immunity have been relevant throughout the history of immunology and infectious disease epidemiology. For some diseases, herd immunity plays a role in the development of an endemic equilibrium, rather than elimination via threshold effects. Methods: We reviewed academic literature from 1920 to 2022, using historical and philosophical analysis to identify and develop relevant concepts of herd immunity. Results: This paper analyses the ambiguity surrounding the concept of herd immunity during the pandemic. We argue for the need to recapture a long‐standing interpretation of this concept as one of the factors that leads to a dynamic endemic equilibrium between a host population and a mutating respiratory pathogen. Conclusions: Informed by the history of infectious disease epidemiology, we argue that understanding the concept in this way will help us manage both SARS‐CoV‐2 and hundreds of other seasonal respiratory pathogens with which we live but which have been disrupted due to sustained public health measures/non‐pharmaceutical interventions targeting SARS‐CoV‐2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on human health and has led to social isolation and health implications. In order to optimize public health, it is important to understand the role of social and behavioral sciences, including dietary patterns and lifestyle changes. This study aimed to identify the effect of lockdown on dietary patterns and its association with Body Mass Index (BMI) and lifestyle changes in the older Indian population (aged 60 and above).The study was conducted using an online web-based Google form and 674 participants took part over a one-month period. The k-means algorithm was used to identify non-overlapping dietary patterns and logistic regression was employed to determine the factors associated with changes in dietary patterns. Three dietary patterns were identified: pro-healthy, constant, and unhealthy.During the study, 33.1% of the participants decreased their physical activity while 61.6% increased their screen usage. 26.7% consumed a pro-healthy dietary pattern, while 61.9% consumed an unhealthy dietary pattern. Women reported lower consumption of the pro-healthy pattern (23.8%) and higher consumption of the unhealthy dietary pattern (64.5%) compared to men (30.6% and 58.3%, respectively). Adherence to the pro-healthy dietary pattern was positively associated with age. Participants with a lower BMI were less likely to consume a pro-healthy dietary pattern [AOR: 0.02; CI: 0.01, 0.2]. Those who increased their physical activity were more likely to follow the pro-healthy dietary pattern [AOR: 6.49; CI: 0.76, 55.76]. Those who had less sleep [AOR: 10.22; CI: 1.97, 52.92] and more screen time [AOR: 7.61; CI: 3.28, 17.62] had a higher risk of following an unhealthy dietary pattern.The lockdown had a significant impact on dietary patterns and was associated with unhealthy lifestyle outcomes among older Indian adults. From a public health perspective, promoting awareness of healthy dietary patterns and promoting healthy lifestyles through educational programs is a priority. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Children faced many challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the school closure policies that were implemented to combat it. When justifying closures, governments had to decide how to frame children's vulnerability, as their decisions protected children from some harms while forcing them to endure others. Children are typically framed as vulnerable to justify implementing protective policies but given that these protective policies came with severe consequences for children, it was not an inherently appropriate framing in this case. This study compares the press releases about school closures produced by the Victorian and New South Wales state governments to examine how they framed children's vulnerability and how this positioned their obligation to protect children. It concludes that even though school closures were protective policies, neither government framed children as particularly vulnerable. This is likely explained by the fact that many of the consequences of school closures were harmful to children, so emphasising their vulnerability may have made it harder to retain public support for these policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drawing on the goals-plans-action (GPA) model, we explore how individuals encourage hesitant family members to get vaccinated for COVID-19. We test models analyzing how multiple goals mediate associations between (a) perceived threat to the family member’s health, (b) anticipated resistance, and (c) participants’ political ideology, with their (d) planning effort and (e) message features. Participants who perceive a greater threat, anticipate greater resistance, and are more liberal put greater emphasis on the primary goal, which in turn predicts greater effort, directness, and reason giving. Liberal participants also place less emphasis on secondary goals, and thus exert more pressure. Theoretical implications linking the GPA model with fear appeals and intergroup communication frameworks and practical implications for families and public health campaigns are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: The study purpose was to generate theory to explain why some hospital staff chose to stay on the job during a prolonged public health crisis. BACKGROUND: The "great resignation" of 2021 created shortages across the healthcare industry. Why some healthcare staff chose to stay at work when coworkers were leaving in large numbers through retirement, transition to different careers, or perceived suddenly better clinical opportunities was not clear. METHODS: Qualitative Grounded Theory methods guided this research study. Sixteen healthcare workers participated in open-ended interviews that provided data to identify major concepts in an emerging model of commitment during crisis. RESULTS: A "Commit to Stay" model emerged showing 4 major influences including sense of personal agency, supportive organization, social connections at work, and external connections and influence. CONCLUSIONS: The Commit to Stay conceptual model can help guide nurse leaders as they grapple with supporting those who choose to stay at work in healthcare during intense, sustained healthcare crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This preliminary study investigates factors related to reduced access to mental healthcare among women in the perinatal period. We enrolled 145 pregnant women followed in OB-GYN services, using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale as a clinical measure for depression symptoms. We observed low levels of adherence to psychiatric screenings and referrals. Our findings confirm the importance of improving access to mental healthcare for women in the perinatal period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since 2013, Flanders has introduced a screening programme for colorectal cancer for all citizens aged between 50 and 74 years. The objective of this study was to assess the cost-utility of an expansion of the colorectal cancer screening policy in Flanders (Belgium) and to place these findings in the international context. Cost-utility analysis using high-detail data about screening participation, screening results, and epidemiological data, a Markov cohort model has been constructed to study long-term costs and effects. A cost-utility analysis was performed as a three-way comparison between current, expanded (from age 45 years), and no screening scenarios, from a societal and healthcare perspective. Robustness was assessed by both one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses. Analyses show that both current and expanded screening result in quality-adjusted life years (QALY) gains and are mostly cost-saving. Overall, 97.5% of Incremental Cost-Effectiveness Ratios (ICERs) remained well below € 2000 per QALY for all comparisons. Parameters related to the colonoscopy that follows a positive test result such as compliance and cost are especially impactful on the cost-effectiveness. Screening participation and screening costs have remained comparatively stable, making colorectal cancer screening a cost-effective (dominant) policy. Expanding the screen age to 45 years is also cost-effective (dominant) compared with current screening, albeit with a slimmer margin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of depression related to precarious employment (PE) has become a significant public health concern, given the declining trend of the standard employment relationship. Research has focused on the mental health detrimental effects of employment conditions, whereas there is scarce evidence concerning the burden of depression that could be prevented by targeting precariousness. This paper estimates the impact of PE on the risk of depression and the attributable fraction within the active and working salaried population in Spain. Observational cross-sectional on data drawn from the Spanish portion of European Health Survey 2020. After applying selection criteria and descriptives, binary logistic regression models stratified by sex are used to examine the associations between a 9-categories combination of employment precariousness and occupational social class, and depressive symptoms. There is a higher risk of depression among individuals in PE and among those who are unemployed, with a notable gradient based on occupational social class for women. Adjusting by sex, age and foreign-born origin, we estimate that approximately 15.0% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.0%–26.2%) of depression cases among the working population and 33.3% (95% CI: 23.2%-43.2) among the active population can be attributed to PE. These findings highlight the public health impact of PE on mental health, provide evidence to estimate the economic burden linked to employment-related mental health, and underscore the need for policy changes and interventions at the level of labour markets and workplaces to mitigate the detrimental effects of PE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the COVID-19 pandemic, public health measures were used to reduce the spread of COVID-19; it is unknown whether people with chronic conditions differentially adhered to public health measures. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the association between chronic conditions and adherence and to explore effect modification by sex, age, and income. An analysis of data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging COVID-19 Questionnaires (from April to September 2020) was conducted among middle-aged and older adults aged 50–96 years (n = 28,086). Self-reported chronic conditions included lung disease, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, obesity, anxiety, and depression. Multinomial logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between chronic conditions and low, medium, and high levels of adherence. Effect modification was evaluated using statistical interaction and stratification. Most people (n = 17,435; 62%) had at least one chronic condition, and 2866 (10%) had three to seven chronic conditions. Among those with high adherence to public health measures, 69% had one or more chronic condition (n = 2266). Having three to seven chronic conditions, compared with none, was associated with higher adherence to public health measures (OR: 2.14; 95% CI: 1.12–1.42). Higher adherence was also noted across chronic conditions, for example, those with diabetes had higher adherence (OR: 1.72; 95% CI: 1.53–1.93). There was limited evidence of effect modification by sex, age, or income. Canadians with chronic conditions were more likely to adhere to public health measures; however, future research is needed to understand whether adherence helped to prevent adverse COVID-19 outcomes and if adherence had unintended consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the association between lung cancer and waterpipe smoking, which is an emerging global public health concern. Multicentre case-control study. This study included 627 cases and 3477 controls from the Iranian Study of Opium and Cancer (IROPICAN) study, which was conducted between 2017 and 2020. One frequency-matched control for each lung cancer patient was selected by age, gender and residential place; however, this study used controls of four cancer types in the analyses. The multivariable logistic regression model estimated the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Additional analyses were performed among 181 lung cancer cases and 2141 controls who were not cigarette smokers or opium or nass/pipe users. The odds of lung cancer were higher among waterpipe smokers than never-smokers (OR = 1.3, 95% CI: 1.0–1.7). Results showed a higher OR of lung cancer for those who smoked the waterpipe daily (OR = 2.1, 95% CI: 1.4–3.0), smoked more than two heads per day (OR = 2.7, 95% CI: 1.8–4.0), had smoked for >20 years (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.3–2.7), smoked more than 20 head-years (OR = 2.8, 95% CI: 1.9–4.1) and initiated smoking before the age of 30 years (OR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.1–2.5). The association was only statistically significant for squamous cell carcinomas (OR = 1.8, 95% CI 1.2–2.7). Furthermore, this study observed a higher OR of lung cancer among exclusive waterpipe smokers (OR = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.6, 3.5). Waterpipe smoking was associated with an increased risk of lung cancer. The association was stronger with higher frequency, duration and intensity of exposure to waterpipe smoking. The association increases in exclusive waterpipe smokers, which is likely due to controlling for residual confounding by cigarette smoking and opium consumption, and higher exposure levels in this subpopulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, there is no comprehensive picture of the global surveillance landscape. This survey examines the current state of surveillance systems, levels of integration, barriers and opportunities for the integration of surveillance systems at the country level, and the role of national public health institutes (NPHIs). This was a cross-sectional survey of NPHIs. A web-based survey questionnaire was disseminated to 110 NPHIs in 95 countries between July and August 2022. Data were descriptively analysed, stratified by World Health Organization region, World Bank Income Group, and self-reported Integrated Disease Surveillance (IDS) maturity status. Sixty-five NPHIs responded. Systems exist to monitor notifiable diseases and vaccination coverage, but less so for private, pharmaceutical, and food safety sectors. While Ministries of Health usually lead surveillance, in many countries, NPHIs are also involved. Most countries report having partially developed IDS. Surveillance data are frequently inaccessible to the lead public health agency and seldomly integrated into a national public health surveillance system. Common challenges to establishing IDS include information technology system issues, financial constraints, data sharing and ownership limitations, workforce capacity gaps, and data availability. Public health surveillance systems across the globe, although built on similar principles, are at different levels of maturity but face similar developmental challenges. Leadership, ownership and governance, supporting legal mandates and regulations, as well as adherence to mandates, and enforcement of regulations are critical components of effective surveillance. In many countries, NPHIs play a significant role in integrated disease surveillance. Article in a tweet : Our multicountry survey found disease surveillance systems globally are at different levels of maturity but face similar challenges, for example, in leadership, governance, legal mandates, and resourcing. In many countries, NPHIs play a key role in supporting integrated disease surveillance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims: Short videos, crucial for disseminating health information on metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), lack a clear evaluation of quality and reliability. This study aimed to assess the quality and reliability of MASLD‐related videos on Chinese platforms. Methods: Video samples were collected from three platforms (TikTok, Kwai and Bilibili) during the period from November 2019 to July 2023. Two independent reviewers evaluated the integrity of the information contained therein by scoring six key aspects of its content: definition, epidemiology, risk factors, outcomes, diagnosis and treatment. The quality and reliability of the videos were assessed using the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) criteria, the Global Quality Score (GQS) and the modified DISCERN score. Results: A total of 198 videos were included. The video content exhibited an overall unsatisfactory quality, with a primary emphasis on risk factors and treatment, while diagnosis and epidemiology were seldom addressed. Regarding the sources of the videos, the GQS and modified DISCERN scores varied significantly between the platforms (p =.003), although they had generally similar JAMA scores (p =.251). Videos created by medical professionals differed significantly in terms of JAMA scores (p =.046) compared to those created by nonmedical professionals, but there were no statistically significant differences in GQS (p =.923) or modified DISCERN scores (p =.317). Conclusions: The overall quality and reliability of the videos were poor and varied between platforms and uploaders. Platforms and healthcare professionals should strive to provide more reliable health‐related information regarding MASLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we critically analyse the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting not only the breadth of knowledge geographers have already contributed to this assessment, but also the surprisingly limited critique within geography, social sciences and the broadly defined 'Academic Left' of the authoritarian dimension of the public health policies of 2020 onwards. We conclude with a number of research questions for the aftermath of the pandemic, with the hope that they will help spur the growth of a new wave of anti-authoritarian Leftist geographical thinking that reaffirms the centrality of human rights and civil liberties to making the world a better place. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nomophobia, often known as a 21st-century disorder, is a recent condition that has received considerable attention, with numerous studies conducted to better understand it since it was first introduced in 2008. To better understand the present research status and prospects to assist practitioners, policymakers, and funding agencies in protecting the population from nomophobia-related harm, a bibliometric study of nomophobia-related publications was conducted. We used Scopus and dimensions.ai to perform a search between 2008 and 2022. The HistCite, R software, and VOSviewer were used to analyze the data and extract relevant keywords indexed in medical databases using mesh heading phrases. Between January 2008 and April 2022, 1,781 papers, 30 datasets, two grants, six patents, four clinical trials, and five policy documents were identified. The bulk of the articles included in this review were published after 2017 with the majority written in English. Most of the research focuses on determining the prevalence of nomophobia in various populational groups, such as students, clinical samples, and the general adult population. Several studies examined the possible association between nomophobia symptoms and other psychiatric or physical health issues, such as changes in sleep, learning and attention, academic performance, coping strategies, etc. The current body of research knowledge of nomophobia in the main includes epidemiologic and diagnostic effort that has provided mixed results regarding its assessment and prevalence rates, and appreciable data on its treatment and prevention are lacking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How do Chinese Muslims have their own voices heard under China's tightening online censorship amid a global health crisis like COVID-19? Based on 13-month ethnographic fieldwork, this article examines the active participation and creative use of digital media by Chinese Muslims during the pandemic. This study uses multi-sited ethnography (MSE) and digital ethnography to identify major features of networked Islamic counterpublic in China. It shows how Chinese Muslims creatively blend Islamic discourses of hygiene, scientific discourse, official regulations, and global discourses of public health through digital media. It also examines how Chinese Muslims selectively use digital platforms to cultivate Islamic ethics and strengthening global connections to Muslim world both online and offline. Furthermore, this study shows how resilient the networked Islamic counterpublic in China has been in terms of strategically voicing dissent in the shadows of anti-Muslim sentiments and state policies during a major global pandemic of our time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This Perspectives on Pedagogy acknowledges ongoing inequities in public health teaching and learning and describes the importance of implementing equity-focused teaching (EFT) approaches to serve present and future diverse public health student populations. Current equity-focused pedagogies being implemented within the field of public health are described, along with current limitations among public health instructors surrounding EFT training. We conclude with an example, offering recommendations to instructors on how to create transparently-designed writing assignments to support equitable learning in public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many female health education pioneers made seminal contributions to public health and social justice, yet these examples are not well documented in textbooks or integrated into public health curricula as pedagogical learning opportunities. Providing biographies and lessons learned from the past leaders within undergraduate health education curricula can help develop students' skills as future leaders and address gender inequities in the field. Gender inequities in higher education as well as many public health practice settings result in lower salaries, slower career advancement opportunities, fewer supervisory positions, increased work-life conflicts, and heavier workloads. Developing women's competencies in leadership and professionalism early in their careers is critical to meeting public health challenges such as COVID-19. We present four female health education trailblazers from different historical eras and various workforce sectors who exemplify leadership attributes (i.e., courage/risk taking, vision, advocacy, mentorship) and can be highlighted as a part of future health education curriculum. Innovative methods and approaches are provided for integrating these leadership lessons into undergraduate public health courses, in alignment with the HESPA II 2020 competencies. Learning from the past to inform the future is critical to inspiring and shaping the careers of emerging health educators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graduates of Master of Public Health programs may lack appropriate skills in data analysis, and would benefit from practice with research data. Datasets that contain health information relevant to student interests, and that are appropriate sizes for class use can be difficult to locate. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey is a study that collects both survey and health examination information from a national sample every 2 years. I present a sample of this dataset, with examples of how to use it for human health related questions. Instructions for how to access and create additional, customized datasets are also provided. Instructors may consider investigating this rich data source and providing students with subsets of these data for class assignments, projects and master's theses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Technology is essential in the facilitation of many operations in higher educational institutions. The use of web-based platforms to deliver academic content, including practice-based training, has gained popularity. However, their use in practicum process administration is not well studied. In the 2020/2021 academic year, a graduate program in the Faculty of Health Science within a public university in Ontario incorporated the InPlace platform to streamline the administration of the practicum process, including goal setting. This study aimed to understand the user experience of the platform in facilitating competency-based learning. Methods: Twelve students participated in two focus group sessions that lasted approximately 1.5 hr each. Two staff members participated in one-on-one semi-structured interviews. The System Usability Scale (SUS) was used as a measure of the platform's usability. Other outcomes included staff and students' user experience. Result: Overall, the students and staff believe the platform is good for facilitating competency-based learning. The SUS score was 61.8 (95% confidence interval, [56.7, 66.9]). Eight students (66.7%) indicated that the platform was useful in helping them navigate their learning goals. Staff expressed appreciation of the program with respect to communication, practicum process, and overall program administration. Some suggestions for improving the platform were made. Conclusion: The practicum placement platform has shown some initial benefits in communication and practicum process administration. In a future configuration of similar platforms, the implementation of the suggestions provided in this study may be necessary to improve usability and enhance the facilitation of competence-based learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim(s): Globally, studies have shown that the dental disease burden among persons with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) is high and can be attributed to lower utilization levels of dental services. The aim of the study was to assess the influence of income and financial subsidies on the utilization of dental care services among persons with IDD in Singapore. Methods: Between August 2020 and August 2021, a cross‐sectional study was conducted via centres offering Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children, special education schools and adult associations in Singapore serving persons with IDD. A sample of 591 caregivers of children and adults with IDD completed the survey. Data on sociodemographic information, oral health behaviours and dental utilization were collected. Financial subsidy status was assessed by the uptake of a government‐funded, opt‐in Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) for low‐income families that provided a fixed subsidy amount for dental services in the primary care setting. Statistical analysis was carried out using univariable, multiple logistic regression and modified Poisson regression. Propensity score matching was carried out in R version 4.0.2 to assess the impact of financial subsidies on oral health care utilization among persons with IDD. Results: Compared to those with lower gross monthly household incomes, the adjusted prevalence ratios of having at least one dental visit in the past year, having at least one preventive dental visit in the past year, and visiting the dentist at least once a year for persons with IDD with gross monthly household incomes of above SGD$4000 were 1.28 (95% CI 1.08–1.52), 1.48 (95% CI 1.14–1.92) and 1.36 (95% CI 1.09–1.70), respectively. Among those who were eligible for CHAS Blue subsidies (247 participants), 160 (62.0%) took up the CHAS Blue scheme and 96 (35.4%) visited the dentist at least yearly. There was no statistically significant difference in the utilization of dental services among individuals enrolled in the CHAS Blue subsidy scheme among those eligible for CHAS Blue subsidies. Conclusion: Higher household income was associated with a higher prevalence of dental visits in the past year, preventive dental visits in the past year, and at least yearly dental visits. CHAS Blue subsidies alone had limited impact on dental utilization among persons with IDD who were eligible for subsidies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this study was to present key findings from the 2019 national adult oral health survey in Singapore (NAOHS). Methods: A multi‐stage stratified sampling method was used to recruit participants for a representative national adult oral health survey. A total of 12 212 households were randomly selected from the National Database on Dwellings in Singapore. Within each household eligible persons aged ≥65 years were automatically invited to participate while a Kish selection method was used to invite those between 21 and 64 years old. The survey comprised a face‐to‐face interview questionnaire and a clinical examination which recorded details of tooth loss, DMFT, DMFS and prevalence of periodontal disease according to the CPITN and the US CDC‐AAP classifications. Weighted analysis was performed to adjust for oversampling, non‐response and post‐stratification. Multivariate regression with backward stepwise selection was carried out to identify predictors of chronic periodontal disease and untreated dental caries. Results: Six hundred and sixty‐three participants completed both the questionnaires and the clinical examination. The prevalence of edentulousness was 2.7%. Of participants, 34.8% presented with untreated dental caries with a higher proportion found in those who were aged ≥60 years, of Malay ethnicity, living in 1–2‐room public housing and who only visited the dentist when there was a problem. Mean DMFS and DMFT indices were 24.7 and 7.9 respectively. Based on the CDC‐AAP classification, the prevalence of moderate–severe chronic periodontitis was 56.9% and increased with age, with a higher proportion in males. Participants with untreated dental caries were more likely to have moderate or severe periodontal disease. Conclusions: Survey findings showed high prevalence of dental caries and periodontal disease, at 34.8% and 77.6% respectively. A clear socio‐economic gradient in the distribution of tooth loss, untreated dental caries and moderate‐to‐severe periodontitis was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last decade, Singapore has grappled with substantial healthcare challenges, chiefly a bourgeoning aging population and a mounting burden of chronic diseases. The oral health landscape has also changed, with the Ministry of Health placing a greater focus on a life‐course approach supported by policies that facilitate Singaporeans to receive dental care appropriately and affordably. A pivotal oral health policy is the National Dental Strategy, a comprehensive framework governing dental services in the public sector. This strategy encompasses aspects such as financing, workforce management, and capacity considerations. To facilitate affordability and accessibility to dental services in the public sector, the government extends subsidies to reduce out‐of‐pocket costs. Those attending private dental clinics also benefit from the Community Health Assist Scheme, introduced in 2012, which alleviates treatment costs for enrolled Singaporeans. Furthermore, additional age‐banded subsidies have been introduced for older Singaporeans born before 1960, enhancing financial support when accessing dental services in both private and public sectors. In 2019, a national adult oral health survey was commissioned to gauge the oral health status of Singaporeans aged 21 and above. The findings reported 34.8% having untreated dental caries, and 15.7% and 41.2% experiencing moderate and severe periodontitis, respectively. While over half (53.9%) of respondents visited the dentist at least annually, about 60% of eligible individuals did not utilize their government dental subsidies. In response, the Ministry of Health is committed to strengthening oral disease prevention, integrating oral health into general healthcare services, expanding dental financing schemes to enhance service utilization, improving the quality and transparency of dental care, and leveraging advancements in tele‐dentistry and other modes of dental services. It is imperative to adapt Singapore's oral health policies and service delivery models to meet the evolving needs of the population and ensure a sustainable, equitable and resilient oral healthcare system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Traumatic hemorrhage is a prevalent cause of death nationally, with >50% of civilian deaths estimated to be preventable with more timely intervention. This study investigated the efficacy of training large and diverse audiences in bleeding control methods including tourniquets in community health fair settings. Methods: A booth was utilized for bleeding control training at community health fairs via direct demonstrations of pressure, wound packing, and commercial and improvised tourniquet application followed by hands-on practice. Participants self-rated their perceived abilities while instructors rated the participant competency. Results: 117 community members participated during two fairs, though not every person completed every portion of the training. Average age was 33 (range 6-82) and the majority were female (65.0%). There was no difference in self-perceived skill compared to trainer grading of participant's ability to identify life-threatening bleeding (112 (97.4%) vs 106 (97.2%); P = 1), apply pressure (113 (98.3%) vs 106 (97.2%); P =.68), and pack a wound (102 (88.7%) vs 92 (84.4%); P =.43). No difference in difficulty was noted in placing commercial vs improvised tourniquets (16 (43%) vs 14 (45%); P =.87). However, participants were overconfident in their ability to place tourniquets compared to trainer grading, respectively (112 (98.2%) vs 100 (91.7%; P =.03)). Discussion: Community fair classes provide opportunities to train large and diverse audiences in bleeding control techniques. However, participants overestimated their ability to appropriately apply tourniquets. Further investigation is needed into best educational approaches to optimize the impact of bleeding control kits that have been distributed in multiple states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a global and widespread public health issue. Knowledge on what promotes individual-level reductions in risk for IPV recidivism is limited. In order to explore how group therapy influences the ability to obtain and sustain change, the objectives were to explore how IPV perpetrators make sense of and think about their experiences of group therapy and what their experiences are regarding needs of treatment for IPV perpetration. Six semi-structured interviews were conducted and analyzed with the qualitative method Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Two main themes were identified; "Experiences in group therapy" (subthemes: Ultimatum as a turning point; The guys as a powerful tool for change and Unfinished ending) and "Treatment needs" (subthemes: Violence as an addiction and Weakness as a strength). The findings highlight that group therapy is experienced positively, as well as difficulties that constitute obstacles, and need of further support after ending treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Emerging evidence points to a two‐way relationship between periodontitis and dietary choices and, thus, nutrition. This study aimed to assess the potential cause–effect relationship between the periodontitis stage, loss of functional tooth units (FTUs), masticatory function, and intake of different food groups using path analysis. Materials and Methods: A single calibrated examiner determined the periodontitis stage of a consecutive sample of 241 Chinese subjects reporting for tooth replacement. Their masticatory function was quantified by the mixing ability of a two‐colour chewing gum. Validated food frequency questionnaires were used to calculate the intake of 33 food group items by an experienced calibrated rater. After verification of assumptions, visual structural equation modeling was performed with Amos 23. The consistency of results and the potential modifying effect of age were assessed in 9043 subjects from the NHANES database. Results: Highly significant models were constructed using periodontitis stage and age as exogenous factors. Periodontitis stage diagnosis significantly affected the number of posterior FTUs and oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL, path coefficient [PC] = –0.55 and −0.20, p <.05, respectively). In the model, FTUs also had an independent effect on OHRQoL (PC = 0.23, p <.05). FTUs determined the level of masticatory function (PC = –0.38, p <.05), which in turn affected vegetable intake but not fruit or meat intake (PC = –0.18, p <.0.5, PC = 0.06, NS and PC = 0.11, NS, respectively). The effect of age was significant for vegetable and meat intake and was also correlated with periodontitis stage diagnosis. Analysis of the NHANES database confirmed the negative impact of periodontitis on the number of occluding pairs and vegetable consumption for the 18–44, 45–60 and >60 age groups. Conclusions: Periodontitis showed a potential cause–effect pathway affecting vegetable intake across cultures and age groups. The size of the effect is potentially of clinical and public health significance. Additional studies, including intervention trials, are required to test this potential mechanism linking oral health to nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the associations of emotions, cognitions, and behavioral intentions in response to exposure to news stories reporting on the arrival of Omicron variant in Vietnam. Outcomes included fear, anxiety, anger, comparative optimism, intentions to conduct prevention behavior (wash hands with soap), detection behavior (test for Omicron infection), and share health information. Two experiments were conducted with participants being randomized to either low-risk or high-risk condition that contained information promoting hand-washing with soap (Experiment 1, N = 303), or information promoting COVID-19 testing (Experiment 2, N = 303). Results indicated that viewing high-risk news stories led to higher fear, anxiety, and anger than low-risk news stories. Fear fully mediated the effect of news exposure on intentions to test for Omicron infection and share health information. Comparative optimism moderated the indirect effect of news exposure on intentions to wash hands with soap and share information about COVID-19 testing. Theoretical and practical implications were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although frame building is a crucial part of framing in health communication, it is much less understood than media frames or their effects on audiences (i.e. frame setting). To address this research gap, we analyzed the individual, organizational, and external factors of influence contributing to the media's portrayal of responsibility for two major health issues: depression and diabetes. To identify relevant factors, we conducted 23 semi-structured interviews with German journalists who regularly report on these health issues. Our findings indicate that the way in which media coverage portrays responsibilities in depression and diabetes is affected by a variety of factors. These include individual (journalist role perception, journalistic routines, academic background and personal experiences with depression, diabetes-related knowledge, and personal values and beliefs), organizational (editorial lines, space limits, time limitations and payment, and newsroom structures), and external (health news sources, audience interest, newsworthiness, and social norms) factors. Notably, there are differences between depression and diabetes coverage – especially regarding individual factors – confirming that frame building, similar to framing in general, should be examined with regard to specific issues. Nevertheless, some factors that seem important across different topics could be identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the recommendations for COVID-19 preventive health behaviors, it continues to increase alarmingly. This study examined how media coverage, myths, political leaders, and community leaders influence the attitudes and misconceptions about COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccination uptake in the Mississippi Delta region. This qualitative study employed focus group discussions (FDGs) with representatives from three rural counties in the Mississippi Delta. A thematic analysis approach was used for data analysis. Participants were aware of how COVID-19 is transmitted, the preventative measures that can be used to mitigate the spread of the virus, and misconceptions and beliefs that lingered in their communities. Participants were uncertain about the need for the COVID-19 vaccine in terms of perceived risks (e.g., side effects, efficacy, and safety) and its novelty. Participants also discussed a wide range of COVID-19 misinformation that resulted in distress and distrust of the vaccine and health behavior recommendations. There are varying misconceptions and beliefs about COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccine among communities in the rural Mississippi Delta. Thus, multi-sectoral collaborations between agencies that can use risk communication frameworks to deliver accurate health information that can resolve misinformation about COVID-19 in rural communities are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 not only put the public health system under considerable pressure, but it also posed a huge challenge for established routines of intergovernmental coordination in Germany. As the Länder are responsible for implementing infection prevention measures, the most senior intergovernmental council, the minister presidents' conference (MPK), became the central body for pandemic crisis management. In light of high uncertainty, time pressure and public attention, drastic actions were taken to contain the dissemination of the corona virus. Against this background, our paper investigates how party politics impacted on horizontal coordination in times of crisis. The analysis shows that indeed territorial party politics interferes with routines of intergovernmental coordination. While congruence between the federal and Länder governments promotes homogenous implementation of joint MPK resolutions, increasing coalition size and intense party competition make deviations more likely. Finally, partisan ideology plays a key role as parties pursue clearly distinct pandemic management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This commentary, linked to our paper in the same issue of the Journal of Medical Screening, discusses the reluctance to consider and adopt the polypill in the primary prevention of heart attacks and strokes, access to the polypill as a public health service, the formulation of the polypill in current use, its prescription as an unlicensed medicine, and what can be done to facilitate the adoption of the polypill approach as a routine public health service. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) were disproportionately impacted by the COVID‐19 pandemic. This study's goal was to assess the effectiveness of 2 messaging strategies on participation in SARS‐CoV‐2 weekly testing. Methods: Cluster randomized trials were conducted at 2 school systems, the special school district (SSD) and Kennedy Krieger Institute (Kennedy) to assess messaging strategies, general versus enhanced, to increase weekly screening for SARS‐CoV‐2. Testing was offered to staff and students from November 23, 2020 to May 26, 2022. The primary outcomes were percentage of students and staff consented weekly and percentage of study participants who had a test performed weekly. Generalized estimating equation models were utilized to evaluate the primary outcomes. Results: Increases in enrollment and testing occurred during study start up, the beginning of school years, and following surges in both systems. No statistical difference was observed in the primary outcomes between schools receiving standard versus enhanced messaging. Implications for School Health Policy, Practice, and Equity: Frequent and consistent communication is vital for families and staff. Weekly screening testing within schools is possible and highlighted the importance of utilizing equitable protocols to provide important testing to students with IDD. Conclusion: Enhanced messaging strategies did not increase the number of participants enrolled or the percentage of enrolled participants being tested on a weekly basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an age where technology is evolving at a sometimes incomprehensibly rapid pace, the liver community must adjust and learn to embrace breakthroughs with an open mind in order to benefit from potentially transformative influences on our science and practice. The Journal of Hepatology has responded to novel developments in artificial intelligence (AI) by recruiting experts in the field to serve on the Editorial Board. Publications introducing novel AI technology are no longer uncommon in our journal and are among the most highly debated and possibly practice-changing papers across a broad range of scientific disciplines, united by their focus on liver disease. As AI is rapidly evolving, this expert paper will focus on educating our readership on large language models and their possible impact on our research practice and clinical outlook, outlining both challenges and opportunities in the field. "To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often." ― Winston S. Churchill [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Assessing the effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic on parental anxiety and preferences for antibiotic treatment can help inform antibiotic stewardship strategies. Therefore, this study aimed to examine COVID‐19 pandemic‐related changes in parental anxiety levels, their intentions to demand antibiotics and frequencies of practising preventative behaviours. Design: This longitudinal quantitative study compared two groups of parents, those from Victoria and Western Australia, who experienced high and low COVID‐19 risk, respectively. Methods: Participants were recruited through an online panel to complete three waves of surveys between October 2020 and August 2021. Anxiety scores and frequency of preventative behaviours were analysed using mixed‐effects tobit regression, considering time, state, and their interaction as fixed effects predictors. Intention to demand antibiotics was modelled using multinomial logistic regression, with time, state, and their interaction as the predictors. Results: The final longitudinal sample comprised 50 participants from Victoria and 51 from Western Australia. Parental anxiety did not significantly change over time for either state. Intention to demand antibiotics was also stable over time within each state; however, participants from Victoria exhibited stronger intentions to demand antibiotics compared to those from Western Australia. Frequencies of parental preventative behaviours declined from Wave 1 to Wave 2 before increasing again in Wave 3, but only for Western Australia. Conclusion: This longitudinal study among Australian parents found stable parental anxiety and intention to demand antibiotics within each state. However, the intention to demand antibiotics and preventative behaviours varied between states as per the COVID‐19 risk. Thus, viral pandemics may not affect judicious antibiotic use, though the intention to demand antibiotics may increase in states with high COVID‐19 risk. Impact: Though parental anxiety may not impact antibiotic stewardship during viral respiratory illness outbreaks, tailored messaging to maintain appropriate antibiotic use may be necessary, especially when the disease risk is high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The study explores the experiences of women with low‐risk pregnancies and no complications who planned a home birth. Design: A cross‐sectional study was conducted using an online questionnaire. Methods: The questionnaire included socio‐demographic, obstetric and perinatal variables. Birth satisfaction was evaluated via the Spanish version of the childbirth experience questionnaire. The study group comprised home‐birthing women in Catalonia, Spain. Data were collected from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2021. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS. Results: A total of 236 women responded. They reported generally positive experiences, with professional support and involvement being the most highly rated dimensions. Better childbirth experiences were associated with labour lasting less than 12 h, no perineal injuries, no intrapartum transfers to hospital, euthocic delivery and the presence of a midwife. Conclusions: Women's positive home birth experiences were linked to active participation and midwife support. Multiparous women felt safer. Medical interventions, especially transfers to hospitals, reduced satisfaction, highlighting the need for improved care during home births. Implications for the Profession and Patient Care: Home births should be included among the birthplace options offered by public health services, given the extremely positive feedback reported by women who gave birth at home. Impact: Home birth is not an option offered under Catalonia's public health system only as a private service. The experience of home‐birthing women is unknown. This study shows a very positive birth experience due to greater participation and midwife support. The results help stakeholders assess home birth's public health inclusion and understand valued factors, supporting home‐birthing women. Reporting Method: The study followed the STROBE checklist guidelines for cross‐sectional studies. Public Contribution: Women who planned a home birth participated in the pilot test to validate the instrument, and their contributions were collected by the lead researcher. The questionnaire gathered the participants' email addresses, and a commitment was made to disseminate the study's results through this means. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]