Collaborative Community Research Articles

A community-embedded approach to increasing the health literacy of Aboriginal children in a regional area: processes of co-design and local implementation.

This research explores the implementation of a child-centred, co-designed, community-embedded program called 'Young Doctors for Life' (YDFL). YDFL is designed to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for Aboriginal children in the middle childhood years. Focus is given in this paper to the processes of program adaptation of the YDFL to ensure local cultural relevance, drawing on the experiences and perspectives of children, parents, schoolteachers, and the implementation team. Two focus groups with program stakeholders were convened. The first group consisted of three members from the local Aboriginal implementation team, and the second group comprised two members of the program design team. Children (n = 22) and schoolteachers (n = 2) participated in semi-structured interviews. Parent survey data (n = 16) were also collected and included. The data was analysed, guided by the five elements of implementation as outlined in the Hexagon Implementation framework (Capacity; Fit; Need; Usability; Support; and Evidence), which served as a priori themes. YDFL provides a promising example of how programs can be adapted with and for Aboriginal communities to support child health. Successful adaptation and implementation of this program required a co-design approach engaging program designers and the local implementation team. Community collaboration was also essential to identifying and addressing local community goals and aligning new programs with local service and cultural contexts. Health programs to support positive child outcomes are more likely to be successful when they share their focus between the risks and challenges within a community, and the positive, protective factors that can be leveraged to support children to flourish. Stakeholder engagement and community leadership are necessary to achieve meaningful program adaptation and implementation in Aboriginal communities.

Mitigating the impact of COVID-19 on primary healthcare interventions for the reduction of under-5 mortality in Bangladesh: Lessons learned through implementation research.

The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges and threats to health systems, particularly affecting delivery of evidence-based interventions (EBIs) to reduce under-5 mortality (U5M) in resource-limited settings such as Bangladesh. We explored the level of disruption of these EBIs, strategies and contextual factors associated with preventing or mitigating service disruptions, and how previous efforts supported the work to maintain EBIs during the pandemic. We utilized a mixed methods implementation science approach, with data from: 1) desk review of available literature; 2) existing District Health Information System 2 (DHIS2) in Bangladesh; and 3) key informant interviews (KIIs), exploring evidence on changes in coverage, implementation strategies, and contextual factors influencing primary healthcare EBI coverage during March-December 2020. We used interrupted time series analysis (timeframe January 2019 to December 2020) using a Poisson regression model to estimate the impact of COVID-19 on DHIS2 indicators. We audio recorded, transcribed, and translated the qualitative data from KIIs. We used thematic analysis of coded interviews to identify emerging patterns and themes using the implementation research framework. Bangladesh had an initial drop in U5M-oriented EBIs during the early phase of the pandemic, which began recovering in June 2020. Barriers such as lockdown and movement restrictions, difficulties accessing medical care, and redirection of the health system's focus to the COVID-19 pandemic, resulted in reduced health-seeking behavior and service utilization. Strategies to prevent and respond to disruptions included data use for decision-making, use of digital platforms, and leveraging community-based healthcare delivery. Transferable lessons included collaboration and coordination of activities and community and civil society engagement, and investing in health system quality. Countries working to increase EBI implementation can learn from the barriers, strategies, and transferable lessons identified in this work in an effort to reduce and respond to health system disruptions in anticipation of future health system shocks.

Unlocking Nature's Bounty: Exploring the Ecotourism Potential of Batu Jongjong in Bahorok District, Langkat District

The research on community-based ecotourism in Batu Jongjong Village, Langkat Regency, explores its potential, inspired by rich natural and cultural resources. Located in Gunung Leuser National Park, the village benefits from biodiversity. Aimed at enhancing local welfare through sustainable ecotourism, the study stresses community participation and collaboration among stakeholders. Sustainability concepts, including resource protection, are crucial for long-term contributions. The unique aspect lies in empowering locals and ensuring shared responsibility for resource preservation. Batu Jong Jong Village, despite its potential, requires improvements in accessibility, management, and services for competitiveness. Challenges necessitate collaborative efforts, while opportunities lie in sustainable development, emphasizing economic, social, and environmental benefits. Designated as a tourist village, Batu Jong Jong holds promise for eco-tourism, utilizing its natural resources. Despite obstacles, the village's fertile soil and community involvement present a foundation for sustainable tourism, contributing to its long-term success.

Supporting children’s participation in active travel: developing an online road safety intervention through a collaborative integrated knowledge translation approach

ABSTRACT Even though regular engagement in physical activity (PA) among children can support their development and encourage the adoption of healthy lifelong habits, most do not achieve their recommended guidelines. Active travel (AT), or any form of human-powered travel (e.g., walking), can be a relatively accessible, manageable, and sustainable way to promote children’s PA. One common barrier to children’s engagement in AT, however, is a reported lack of education and training. To support children’s participation in AT, this paper presents the development of a comprehensive 4-module online road safety education intervention designed to improve children’s knowledge and confidence regarding AT. Using a qualitative integrated knowledge translation (iKT) approach undertaken with community collaborators (n = 50) containing expertise in health promotion, public safety, school administration, and transportation planning, our inductive thematic analysis generated fourth themes which constituted the foundation of the intervention modules: Active Travel Knowledge: Awareness of Benefits and Participation; Pedestrian Safety and Skills: Roles, Responsibilities, and Rules; Signs and Infrastructure: Identification, Literacy, and Behaviour; Wheeling Safety and Skills: Technical Training and Personal Maneuvers. Each theme/module was then linked to an explicit learning objective and connected to complementary knowledge activities, resources, and skill development exercises. Implications for research and practice are discussed.

Bipolar Disorder in Adolescents: Early Detection and Intervention Strategies

As a severe mental condition marked by extreme mood swings, with the development of science and technology, adolescent bipolar disorder’s detection and therapy have been increasingly valued by research workers. This article explores the complex issue of adolescent bipolar disorder, highlighting the part played by genetic predisposition and neurological factors in determining how the condition develops, providing directions for further study and likely targeted treatments with a literature review approach. Meanwhile, this review highlights the crucial need for early detection and therapeutic techniques. With the examination of early detection measures and discussion of the value of screening instruments, prodromal symptom recognition, and community and school collaboration. The knowledge gained from this research offers a thorough framework for comprehending and treating adolescent bipolar disease, with the ultimate goal of increasing diagnostic precision, informing therapies, and eventually enhancing the long-term well-being of those who experience it. This review sheds light on the current landscape of early detection and intervention of adolescents’ bipolar disorders.

Utilization of Primary Health Care Under National Health Insurance in Samarinda Municipality, East Kalimantan Province, Indonesia.

In Indonesia, basic community health services are provided to all citizens through Primary Health Care (PHC) settings under the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme. The insurance is compulsory and provides basic community health needs. Based on a gatekeeper concept, the PHC is deemed to be the first contact point for all basic healthcare needs. Despite the commencement of services through PHC settings in 2014 under this concept, utilization in PHC settings remains lower than in hospital settings. This study aimed to assess factors associated with utilization of PHC under National Health Insurance in Samarinda Municipality, East Kalimantan Province, Indonesia. The research examined the utilization of services over six months. It employed a cross-sectional method and included 382 NHI participants in 10 districts of Samarinda Municipality. Each district was divided into urban and semi-urban areas based upon local government indicators representing the whole research area. A two-stage random sampling and purposive sampling approach was implemented to select the sample. The participants were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Chi-square and multiple logistic regressions were conducted to determine the impact of factors on the utilization of PHC. Only 17.3% of participants used PHC services regularly. Three constitutive factors, type of NHI participants (Adj. OR: 2.62; p<0.005), accommodation (Adj. OR: 2.18; p<0.005) and awareness (Adj. OR: 3.27; p<0.005) most profoundly influenced the under-utilization of PHC by NHI participants. The study found that the type of NHI participant and the utilization factors of accommodation and awareness significantly influenced the degree of utilization of PHC facilities by NHI participants and that the differences arose from variations in knowledge and experience. Strengthening these factors will rely upon an expanded role of government and community collaboration, emphasizing the needs of NHI participants.

Projectized Community of Practice: A Case Study of Globally Distributed Information Technology Organization

The execution of globally distributed information technology service projects (GDITP) by globally distributed teams, while inherently complex, offers the advantages of swift implementation and seamless service delivery to global clients. The numerous challenges including the intangibility of customer specifications, the iterative nature of information technology (IT) activities and coordination difficulties arising from diverse teams contribute to complexity in managing these projects. Moreover, the organizational complexity is compounded by competing power centres, turning project delivery into a politically contested process. In traditional projects such as construction or customized manufacturing, overcoming aforementioned challenges through strong top-down leadership is typical in many time-bound projects. However, in the realm of IT projects, which are inherently people-centric, enforcing a command-and-control environment is challenging. Communities-of-practice (CoP) offer an alternative structure that engages highly skilled employees in a collaborative community, navigating the challenges posed by IT projects. Our study explores this innovative approach, focusing on a product firm effectively leveraging CoPs to successfully execute global service projects. Delving into the functioning of CoPs, our research illustrates how they scale up using both formal and informal networks to meet diverse global customer requirements. Despite operating globally, CoPs exhibit emergent collective mindfulness, adapting tools, processes and products to the demands of the projects. The study also details how the organization manages complexity while adhering to product architecture and a uniform project framework.

Don Bloch nomination letter.

Don Bloch nomination letter.

RentIt: A Peer To Peer Asset Sharing Platform

Abstract: This paper introduces RentIt, an innovative Peer-to-Peer (P2P) rental platform aimed at revolutionizing resource access and sharing. The RentIt system is designed to facilitate seamless connections and transactions among users within a secure and user-friendly environment. Users can effortlessly list, discover, and rent a diverse array of items from fellow users, optimizing the utilization of underutilized assets. The RentIt platform is built on cutting-edge technology, emphasizing trust and transparency in peer-to-peer transactions. Through this system, individuals gain the ability to share their resources with others, contributing to a more sustainable and collaborative community. The platform’s user-friendly interface ensures an efficient and reliable experience for both lenders and renters. This paper details the architecture and functionality of RentIt, highlighting its role in transforming conventional resource man-agement practices. It emphasizes the importance of maximizing the utility of idle assets, promoting a culture of responsible consumption, and fostering a sense of community through shared resources.

Stakeholders’ Perspectives on an Area Agency on Aging Serving Urban Older Adults

ABSTRACT Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), authorized by the 1965 Older Americans Act, seek to promote “age-friendly” communities by offering services that help older adults live independently. This study used Qualtrics survey data (n = 94 respondents) to identify unmet needs for AAA services in the Detroit metropolitan area. Descriptive statistical analyses were used for closed-ended items and content analysis was used to identify themes from open-ended questions. This needs assessment aims to provide the opportunity for in-depth, meaningful input from stakeholders about areas relevant to strategic planning efforts that enhance and enrich older adult programming in an urban AAA service area. Key themes included the need to collaborate with transportation providers, partner with healthcare and hospitals, market the agency to enhance visibility, promote aging in place, address demographic changes, and improve access to older adult services and caregiver support. Findings suggest the importance of providing accessible, high-quality services that promote aging in place through community outreach and collaboration activities.

Religion and poverty alleviation in South Africa

South Africa, like all nations, faces several societal ills. In recent years, poverty has seen an increase in its prevalence rates – gaining attention from local, national, and international institutions. Poverty as a global phenomenon has existed for centuries and is predicted to continue for the foreseeable future. Amid this gloomy prediction, religion offers a beacon of hope. Religious communities provide a sense of comfort, security, and hope for a better future. However, they are also institutions capable of great social change and influence. Considering South Africa’s diverse and large religious community, the question of how religious communities can support poverty alleviation efforts and curb the growth of poverty becomes important, necessary, and relevant to the existing discourse on multilateral collaboration towards poverty alleviation.Contribution: This article contributes to understanding different religious views on poverty towards understanding the importance of the religious community and interfaith dialogue and collaboration in addressing the growth of poverty in South Africa.

What are the critical factors which support or inhibit the effective implementation of the one health approach in Africa? A systematic map protocol.

Abstract The One Health approach recognizes that the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health, emphasizing collaboration sectors, disciplines and communities to address threats and foster overall well-being. Particularly relevant in Africa due to its diverse climates, weak health systems and the interactions between humans and wildlife, the approach aims to ensure sustainable and better health outcomes. Over the past decade, the One Health approach has been operationalized at different levels and regions of Africa. However, what is currently missing is an overview of factors facilitating or inhibiting operationalization as well as the existing evidence base including which areas have been researched, in which countries, for which specific factors or levels, and where major gaps in knowledge remain. To bridge this gap, a systematic mapping will be conducted by compiling existing evidence of One Health operationalization in Africa. We will conduct a comprehensive search of literature from bibliographic databases, organizational websites and Google Scholar. At the title and abstract stage, articles will be screened for eligibility against an a priori set criteria. We will screen one or more subset of relevant records and use them as an input for a natural language processing model. Once we have verified and validated model accuracy, the model will be used to classify the remaining abstracts. Full-text screening will be conducted independently by two team members. We will produce a narrative synthesis of the results describing the evidence base within the systematic map. Thematic analysis will identify the critical factors inhibiting or supporting the implementation of the One Health approach in Africa. We will use multiple visualizations to explore relationships within and between studies, highlighting areas requiring further research. Lastly, this systematic map aims to provide an evidence base to guide future interventions to further implement the One Health approach in Africa.

From Mammy to Big Mama: Caring for Collections on Our Own Terms

Hallie Q. Brown Community Center (the Center) began as a settlement house in 1929. It has and continues to serve the predominately Black neighborhood, commonly known as Rondo, in Saint Paul, MN. I am the first professional archivist hired by the Center and, as such, I was the first to establish workflows, implement standards, and provide easy access to the Center’s archival collections. Yet, I was trained to be an archivist by white people at predominately white institutions and have learned over time that not all the frameworks, ideas, and expectations impressed upon me apply in community archives which serve Black people. In this paper I will discuss the underappreciated social and emotional labors involved in being a Black woman in charge of a community archive, which serves a historically Black community, and was initially led by Black women. I will explore aspects of internal colonialism, catalog description, and efforts in community collaboration and outreach as it relates to collections entrusted to the Hallie Q. Brown Community Archives (HQBCA). This paper will offer a vignette into the journey of a professional serving the majority as a minority in collections care, to serving an underrepresented community as a fellow member of a marginalized group.

Human biomonitoring of dioxins, furans, and non-ortho dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in blood plasma from Old Crow, Yukon, Canada (2019)

Dioxins, furans, and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a group of persistent and toxic chemicals that are known to have human health effects at low levels. These chemicals have been produced for commercial use (PCBs) or unintentionally as by-products of industry or natural processes (PCBs, dioxins, and furans). Additionally, dioxin-like PCBs were formerly used in electrical applications before being banned internationally (2004). These chemicals are widely dispersed in the environment as they can contaminate air and travel hundreds to thousands of kilometers before depositing on land or water, thereafter, potentially entering food chains. Community concerns surrounding the safety of traditional foods prompted a human biomonitoring project in Old Crow, Yukon Territory (YT), Canada (2019). Through collaborative community engagement, dioxins and like compounds were identified as a priority for exposure assessment from biobanked samples.In 2022, biobanked plasma samples (n = 54) collected in Old Crow were used to measure exposures to seven dioxins, ten furans, and four dioxin-like PCBs. 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDD, 1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDD, 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDD, OCDD, 2,3,4,7,8-PeCDF, 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDF, PCB 126, and PCB 169 were detected in at least 50 % of samples. Among these analytes, the only congener at elevated levels was PCB 169, which was approximately ∼2-fold higher than the general population of Canada. No significant sex-based or body mass index (BMI) differences in biomarker concentrations were observed. Generally, the concentrations of the detected congeners increased with age, except for 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDD.For the first time, this research measures dioxin and like-compound exposures in Old Crow, advancing the information available on chemical exposures in the Arctic. Further research could be directed towards the investigation of PCB 169 exposure sources and temporal monitoring of exposures and determinants.

Roadblocks to Effective District, Family, and Community Collaboration: A Phenomenology Study of Potential Challenges and Solutions

ABSTRACT School districts have always had a vested interest in engaging with families and their local communities, yet many districts struggle to authentically engage. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, new challenges to family engagement have exacerbated preexisting challenges. To identify strategies that school districts can use to overcome these roadblocks that hinder family and community collaboration, we interviewed K-12 education experts and partners and qualitatively coded their responses. Findings from 47 respondents indicated districts can best foster collaboration through focusing on four key areas: strengthening collaborative decision-making, building trust, demonstrating a commitment to collaboration, and building capacity and infrastructure.

Community Collaboration for Suicide and Overdose Prevention: Attitudes, Perceptions, and Practices of Community-Based Professionals and County Leadership in New York State.

Deaths by overdose and suicide have been steadily rising, yet efforts to jointly address them have been limited despite shared risk and protective factors. The purpose of this study was to explore ways of jointly addressing these two significant public health issues at the community level. To accomplish this goal, we distributed an electronic survey via email to all 58 Local Mental Hygiene Directors (LMHDs) and 184 substance use and 57 suicide prevention coalition leads in New York State in March 2019 to better understand attitudes, perceptions, and practice of community-based overdose and suicide prevention. A total of 140 unique individuals completed the survey for a 47% usable response rate. Participants overwhelmingly reported that suicide and overdose are preventable and that individuals with risky substance use would benefit most from suicide prevention services compared to other populations. In addition, substance use prevention coalition leads reported less awareness of key suicide prevention programs than suicide prevention coalition leads and LMHDs; LMHDs were generally most familiar with suicide prevention programs. Finally, substance use and suicide prevention coalition leads were interested in collaborating to raise awareness, provide training, and implement community-based activities. These findings demonstrate a consensus among county leadership and substance use and suicide prevention coalition leads that suicide and overdose are prevalent in their communities and that increased collaboration to address these two public health issues is warranted. Results suggest a need for education, training, and technical assistance to support collaboration.

Community infant safe sleep and breastfeeding promotion and population level-outcomes: A mixed methods study

ProblemIn the U.S., sudden unexpected infant deaths due to accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed are increasing. Though breastfeeding is a protective factor against sudden unexpected infant death, motivations to breastfeed often couple with unsafe infant sleep practices. Racial/ethnic disparities are present in sudden unexpected infant death, accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed, and breastfeeding. BackgroundPromoting infant safe sleep and breastfeeding through community-level initiatives could address disparities in related outcomes. AimInvestigate the relationship between community-level strategies and associated state-level outcomes for infant safe sleep and breastfeeding. MethodsWe employed an intervention mixed methods framework and exploratory sequential design. The qualitative component entailed a hermeneutical phenomenological framework to analyze key informant interview data from seven U.S. community-level providers participating in a practice improvement initiative. The quantitative component entailed descriptively analyzing infant safe sleep and breastfeeding indicators from the 2019 Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System and Ohio Pregnancy Assessment Survey. Qualitative and quantitative data were linked through embedded integration. FindingsWe identified two mixed insights: gaps in promotion and outcomes, and persistent disparities between infant safe sleep and breastfeeding promotion and outcomes. DiscussionOur findings indicate conversational approaches could improve infant safe sleep and breastfeeding promotion, outcomes, and relative disparities. We find that community collaboration is needed to address organizational capacity limitations in promoting infant safe sleep and breastfeeding. ConclusionCommunity-level organizations and providers should consider tailoring program offerings and care delivery to include conversational approaches and community collaboration to promote infant safe sleep and breastfeeding and decrease relative disparities in outcomes.

Anaemia Prevention Among Pregnant Women

This paper offers a thorough analysis of the worldwide occurrence and consequences of anaemia, with particular emphasis on its effects during pregnancy. Anaemia, a condition marked by inadequate red blood cells, is widely prevalent worldwide, with the African area having the greatest occurrence. The study highlights the complex and varied character of anaemia, which may be caused by factors such as insufficient nutrition, infections, and genetic predispositions. Pregnant women are at a higher risk, thus specific measures are needed to manage iron deficiency and reduce the possibility of negative effects for both the mothers and neonates. The article discusses diagnostic techniques, highlighting the need of thorough examinations that take into account several elements. The repercussions of anaemia go beyond its immediate health effects, affecting cognitive and motor development, productivity, and increasing the chances of maternal and neonatal death. The research elucidates the interdependence of maternal and foetal health outcomes, underscoring the comprehensive care necessary throughout pregnancy. Suggestions include giving priority to evidence-based treatments and programmes for the prevention and management of anaemia, especially in groups at high risk. Effective implementation of preventative interventions relies on the essential collaboration of healthcare practitioners, dietitians, legislators, and communities. Ongoing research, education, and sharing of knowledge are crucial elements of a comprehensive worldwide strategy to tackle anaemia and improve the health outcomes of both mothers and their unborn babies.

Penyuluhan Budidaya Hortikultura sebagai Implementasi Program Kolaborasi Sosial Membangun Masyarakat di Lahan Kritis Desa Wonopringgo

Horticultural vegetables are one of the commodities that are widely cultivated in the tropics. The information is tried to be applied in the implementation of the Collaborative Social Building Community (KOSABANGSA) 2023 program. The purpose of this kosabangsa program is to determine the level of understanding of farmers on the cultivation system of horticultural vegetables. The method of service in the 2023 Kosabangsa program activities was carried out observatively and kuesioenr sharing conducting direct counseling in Wonopringgo Village, Pekalongan. The results of identifying the impact of this service showed that there was a very significant increase in farmers' understanding (50% increase by farmers) regarding horticultural vegetable cultivation. In addition, there was also an increase in knowledge by farmers about the types of horticultural vegetable commodities. From the original only 22 farmers who understood about horticultural vegetable commodities, after the extension there were 27 farmers who understood. The most noticeable impact is the increase in farmers' understanding of the horticultural vegetable cultivation system on critical agricultural land. This is evidenced from the beginning (before counseling) only 5 farmers who understand, but after counseling increased drastically to 26 farmers. Farmers also feel that this extension activity provides great benefits for them, so this program is very worthy of being developed further. The conclusion from the results of this service is that the majority of farmers in Wonopringgo village really understand the concept of horticultural vegetable cultivation which can be implemented on marginal land with various types of suitable vegetable commodities.

Factors of success, barriers, and the role of frontline workers in Indigenous maternal-child health programs: a scoping review

BackgroundDespite considerable investment in maternal-child programs in Canada, there has been little positive impact on the health of Indigenous mothers and their children. The reasons for this are unclear and there is a need to identify how such programs can be successfully implemented. Community input is essential for successful programs; however, it is unclear what the contributions of frontline workers have been in the health program process, i.e., program development, delivery, and evaluation. Based on these identified gaps, this scoping review aimed to: (1) identify factors of success and barriers to successful Indigenous maternal-child community health programs for mothers and their children aged 0–6 years; and (2) explore how frontline workers are included in the program process.MethodsThis scoping review was completed using the Arksey and O’Malley framework, informed by Levac et al. Four data bases (Medline, CINAHL, Embase, and Scopus), grey literature, and reference lists were searched for relevant materials from 1990–2019. Data was extracted from included articles and analysed using descriptive statistics, thematic analysis with the Braun and Clarke framework, and a Principal Component Analysis.ResultsForty-five peer-reviewed and grey articles were included in the review. Factors of program success included: relationship building; cultural inclusion; knowledge transmission styles; community collaboration; client-centred approaches; Indigenous staff; and operational considerations. Barriers included: impacts of colonization; power structure and governance; client and community barriers to program access; physical and geographical challenges; lack of staff; and operational deficits. Frontline workers were found to have a role in program delivery (n = 45) and development (n = 25). Few (n = 6) had a role in program evaluation.ConclusionAlthough a better understanding of the frontline worker role in maternal-child health programs was obtained from the review, in a large proportion of literature the authors could not determine if the role went beyond program delivery. In addition, no direct input from frontline workers and their perspectives on program success or barriers were identified, suggesting areas to explore in future research. This review's findings have been applied to inform a community-based participatory research project and may also help improve the development, delivery, and evaluation of Indigenous maternal-child health programs.