Community Engagement Program Research Articles

Periodontal Health and Microbiological Characteristics of Siwak (Chewing Stick) and Toothbrush Users: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Objective Siwak is a chewing stick used to clean the teeth and oral structures. Many studies have been conducted to assess the potential use of siwak in dentistry and concluded that it can be an alternative to a toothbrush in reducing plaque and gingivitis. However, some observations have reported more periodontal attachment loss and gingival recession among siwak users. This study aimed to compare the periodontal health and oral microbial characteristics between siwak and toothbrush users. Materials and Methods This was a cross-sectional study, and participants were recruited from the public who attended community engagement programs. They were assigned to two groups based on whether they used siwak or a toothbrush. Participants who consented were examined for periodontal health. Supragingival and subgingival plaque samples were collected for bacterial identification and quantification. Statistical Analysis The SPSS package version 21.0 was used for data entry. Data normality was statistically tested using Kolmogorov–Smirnov and Shapiro–Wilk tests, while data comparison used either t-test or Mann–Whitney U test. Results A total of 36 participants were included in this study. The findings revealed that the plaque scores, bleeding scores, and periodontal pocket depths between siwak and toothbrush users were comparable (p > 0.05). Both groups had no evidence of gingival recession. Most participants had bacteria with characteristics of Streptococcus spp., which were present in 12 toothbrush users and 6 siwak users. Conclusions The periodontal health status of siwak users was comparable to that of toothbrush users. Despite this, siwak users had fewer types of bacteria than toothbrush users, suggesting that siwak may serve as an alternative device to conventional toothbrushes for oral hygiene when properly used.

지역사회 연계 환경 프로그램 효과성 연구

Objectives The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of community-based environmental programs for alternative school children, focusing on environmental behavior, pro-environmental behavior, environmental sensitivity and awareness.
 Methods The subjects of the study are 19 students from Alternative School A in Seoul. The trends (M, SD) and normality (Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Shapiro-Wilk) of the pre-post mean scores for the research variables, namely environmental behavior, pro-environmental behavior, environmental sensitivity and awareness, were verified using SPSS 23.0. Since normality was not met, the Wilcoxon test, a non-parametric statistical method that analyzes differences between paired pre- and post-samples, was used to verify effectiveness.
 Results The main results are as follows: First, the trend of research variables was analyzed by differentiating between pre-mean scores (a) and post-mean scores (b), and examining the difference (b-a). The results showed improvement in post-mean scores compared to pre-mean scores for all research variables. Second, the normality of the pre- and post-test mean scores of the study variables was not satisfied, so nonparametric statistical methods were used to test for differences. Third, all study variables showed higher post-test mean scores than pre-test mean scores, and the results were statistically significant.
 Conclusions The findings of this study suggest that community engagement programs operated by alternative schools should be expanded to support optimized programs by identifying and implementing improvements through continuous monitoring. The proposal focuses on measures for experiential project activities through strengthened collaboration with the local community.

Prevalence and Correlates of Substance Use Among Youth Living with HIV in Fishing Communities in Uganda.

Alcohol and drug use (ADU) poses a significant barrier to optimal HIV treatment outcomes for adolescents and youths living with HIV (AYLHIV). We aimed to investigate the prevalence and correlates of ADU among ALHIV in Ugandan fishing communities, areas characterized by high HIV and poverty rates. AYLHIV aged 18-24, who knew they were HIV-positive, were selected from six HIV clinics. Substance use was determined through self-report in the last 12 months and urine tests for illicit substances. Utilizing a socioecological framework, the study structured variables into a hierarchical logistic regression analysis to understand the multi-layered factors influencing ADU. Self-reported past 12 months substance use was 42%, and 18.5% of participants had a positive urine test for one or more substances, with alcohol, benzodiazepines, and marijuana being the most commonly used. With the addition of individual-level socio-demographics, indicators of mental health functioning, interpersonal relationships, and community factors, the logistic regression analysis revealed greater exposure to adverse childhood experiences increased the odds of substance use (Odds Ratio [OR] = 1.24; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.03-1.55). Additionally, exposure to alcohol advertisements at community events significantly raised the odds of substance use (OR = 3.55; 95% CI: 1.43-8.83). The results underscore the high prevalence among AYLHIV and emphasize the need for comprehensive interventions targeting individual (e.g., life skills education and mental health supports), interpersonal (e.g., peer support and family-based interventions), community (e.g., community engagement programs, restricted alcohol advertisements and illicit drug access), and policies (e.g., integrated care models and a national drug use strategy), to address ADU.

Southern Thailand’s crossroads: conflict and economic repercussions

This study examines the interrelation between prolonged conflict and economic stagnation in Southern Thailand, focusing on the government’s role in mitigating these issues. It explores the deep-rooted historical, cultural, and political complexities that contribute to the region’s unrest and economic underperformance compared to the national average. Emphasizing the post-2004 escalation of violence, this research analyzes the detrimental impact on key economic sectors like tourism and agriculture and the consequences of labor migration and investment trends. The study evaluates the effectiveness of the Thai government’s multifaceted peacebuilding and economic recovery initiatives, from infrastructure development to community engagement programs, and security measures. It highlights the challenges of ensuring long-term economic growth, inclusive development, and effective project implementation. Finally, the study underscores the need for strategies that transcend theoretical frameworks, advocating for approaches grounded in on-the-ground intelligence and cultural awareness to foster sustainable peace and economic development in conflict-affected regions.

Case Study: Transformation of the NHMLAC Volunteer Program

ABSTRACT Over the past 10–15 years, the Volunteer Program at the Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County has undergone an immense transition. This program overhaul tackled historical methodology that had been creating barriers to participation, addressed the changing needs of modern volunteer audiences, and worked to highlight access and inclusion in all aspects of program offerings. Today, the Volunteer Program is one of NHMLAC’s largest and most successful community engagement programs, centering the needs and interests of a diverse volunteer cohort by crafting accessible, learning-centered service offerings, while also providing quality support for museum projects. Through this sometimes difficult process of change, NHMLAC partnered closely with longtime docents and other stakeholders to ensure that all parties could move into this new future together. This article outlines the steps of this transition, highlighting the changes, challenges, and opportunities experienced along the way.

272 Engaging Michigan’s Rural, Upper Peninsula Community in Translational Science to Advance Community Engagement Among Nonprofits

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: The Michigan Institute for Clinical & Health Research (MICHR) Community Engagement (CE) Program fosters translational science and community-engaged research (CenR) through education, connecting, supporting, and funding efforts and opportunities. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: In Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, CE partnered with the Michigan Health Endowment Fund to develop a 3-hour workshop that consisted of a panel discussion on best practices of community engagement and a presentation on community engaged nonprofit management. The workshop was designed from mapping 60 participants’ pre-workshop survey findings and reviewing themes from a planning meeting transcript with six community partners. Key themes that emerged included participatory budgeting, collaborative governance, communications, and community planning. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: A mix methods post-workshop evaluation feedback survey was completed. The 9-item survey assessed workshop content, satisfaction, and knowledge gained using a Likert scale as well as opened questions about key takeaway and value added. Quantitative results to be analyzed. Qualitatively, some participants described the workshop as helpful and thoughtful about how to strengthen community engagement within their organizations. Others expressed a desire for more time. Regarding impact, CE received an uptake in consultations and inquiries into statewide pilot grants. The workshop facilitated new collaborations with philanthropic and community organizations serving the Upper Peninsula. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Lessons learned highlight trust, understanding community culture, and moving slowly in a newly formed collaboration. The approach utilized in the Upper Peninsula can inform translational methods for additional partnerships underway across the state of Michigan.

213 Accelerating Translational Science Through Dissemination Grants with Community Impact

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: Promoting Academics and Community Engagement (PACE) Dissemination grants are funding opportunities via the Michigan Institute for Clinical and Health Research Community Engagement program designed to support the science of clinical and translational research demonstrating community impact. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: Two statewide funding announcements over a 3-month period were issued to over 2,000 academic and community partners. Proposals were required to meet the following criteria: 1) data collection from an academic and community partnered research project completed; 2) research findings analyzed; and 3) a community-focused dissemination plan developed. Projects were funded up to $5000. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: Six PACE dissemination grants with community-focused plans were funded spanning Southeast, Western, and the Upper Peninsula regions of Michigan, as well as statewide. Examples of funded projects topics areas include the following: firearm safety; housing discrimination; opioid misuse; suicide prevention; and youth mental health. Community dissemination activities include: a) presenting at a community town hall; b) writing a pamphlet for community use; c) creating artwork installation showcase for community display; d) storytelling through community channels; and e) designing and implementing a local social media campaign. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Traditional funding mechanisms often do not provide resources to disseminate research findings with community benefit or impact back to communities. Funding dissemination awards through the PACE mechanism directly supports and accelerates translational science by sharing results directly back to the community in meaningful ways.

A review of sustainable project management practices in modern LNG industry initiatives

This paper presents a comprehensive review of sustainable project management practices within the modern LNG industry, aiming to analyze the strategies, challenges, and opportunities associated with sustainable development in LNG initiatives. The literature review encompasses an examination of sustainable project management principles, emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic viability in LNG projects. Case studies from various LNG initiatives worldwide are analyzed to identify best practices and frameworks for integrating sustainability into project management methodologies. These studies highlight innovative approaches such as carbon footprint reduction, community engagement programs, and economic diversification strategies, demonstrating the multifaceted nature of sustainable project management in the LNG sector. Methodologically, this review adopts a systematic approach, utilizing established criteria for selecting and analyzing relevant literature and case studies. Data collection methods include extensive literature searches and case study analysis to gather insights into the implementation and effectiveness of sustainable project management practices in the LNG industry. The findings reveal a growing trend towards the adoption of sustainable practices in LNG projects, driven by regulatory requirements, investor preferences, and stakeholder expectations. However, several challenges persist, including technological limitations, regulatory complexities, and cost implications. Nonetheless, these challenges present opportunities for innovation and collaboration, fostering the development of new technologies and strategies to enhance sustainability in LNG project management. In conclusion, this review underscores the importance of sustainable project management in the modern LNG industry, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to address environmental, social, and economic concerns while meeting energy demands. The insights provided offer valuable guidance for industry stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers seeking to advance sustainability objectives in LNG initiatives.

Enhancing Mastery of Physics Concepts through “Physics is Fun” Learning: A Community Engagement Program for Students at Sekolah Indonesia Bangkok, Thailand

Enhancing Mastery of Physics Concepts through “Physics is Fun” Learning: A Community Engagement Program for Students at Sekolah Indonesia Bangkok, Thailand

Kesehatan Mulut dan Nutrisi Optimal Dalam Membangun Kemandirian Kesehatan Generasi Emas di Sekolah Dasar (SD N Glagahwero 2 Jember)

Background: Oral health and optimal nutrition are pivotal in fostering the health autonomy of the golden generation, particularly among primary school-aged children. However, awareness regarding dental care and nutrition significance often lacks among children, especially within the primary school environment. Hence, an effective and innovative educational approach is imperative to instill awareness and healthy habits among young children. Purpose: This study aims to develop and execute a community engagement program focused on cultivating awareness of oral health and optimal nutrition among primary school children at Glagahwero Elementary School, Jember. Implementation: The program will entail employing interactive educational media, including dental and oral health games, and engaging learning materials that are accessible and comprehensible to children. Result: It is envisaged that through this program, there will be an augmentation in knowledge and comprehension among children regarding the importance of oral health and optimal nutrition, as well as the adoption of healthy habits in dental care and dietary choices. Suggestion: Sustainable and collaborative measures need to be undertaken between schools, communities, and local governments to ensure the long-term viability and success of this program.

Towards local agency: critical reflections on community engagement programmes at Abkanisa/Amara West, northern Sudan

ABSTRACT Community engagement programmes are increasingly designed into archaeological projects in Sudan, largely prompted by the remit and funding of the Qatar-Sudan Archaeological Project (QSAP; 2013-present). This paper provides a critical reflection on how a British Museum project in northern Sudan instigated, evaluated and modified its community programme across twelve years, before, during and after QSAP funding. We outline the transition from western institutional project design and information sharing, to enhanced collaboration and local agency, within the context of specific local understandings of heritage (turath). The case study highlights the challenges, opportunities and some possible methodologies for archaeology projects within post-colonial environments.

The green library revolution: a catalyst for climate change action

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

Status, and Challenges in Countering Violent Extremism in Patikul, Sulu: Towards Peaceful Resolution Model

This study aims to determine the status and challenges in countering violent extremism practices and challenges in Patikul, Sulu. The research in this study employed a descriptive-qualitative research design because it aims to describe the extent of addressing violent extremism in Patikul, Sulu by Sectoral Group. The study sought to answer the question specifically: To what extent does the Sectoral Group address violent extremism in Patikul, Sulu as expected against as demonstrated in terms of: 1.1. Community participation; 1.2. Youth Development Programs; 1.3. Promotion of peace and development. 2. Based on the Findings, what Peaceful Resolution Model can be proposed? The focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and document analysis are all employed to gather data for the study’s questions. It was found that the extent of the Sectoral Group in addressing violent extremism in terms of community participation was made through strengthening community participation and livelihood programs. It was also found that the extent of the Sectoral Group in addressing violent extremism regarding Youth Development Programs was conducting symposiums and sports activities. It was also found that the extent of the Sectoral Group in addressing violent extremism in terms of Promotion of Peace and Development, communication among adult/ religious leaders was seen to be the route geared towards achieving the goal. The researcher will present the proposed peaceful resolution model in countering violent extremism in Patikul, Sulu, focusing on community engagement; community resilience; economic development, and law enforcement activities: The researcher recommends the peaceful resolution models in countering violent extremism in the region. Keywords: Peaceful Resolution Model, community engagement; community resilience; economic development, and law enforcement

Empathy and Hate Speech in Social Media: The Case of Indonesia

Hate speech on social media in Indonesia 10 years ago has become a very interesting topic of discussion. Many of these incidents occur and are perpetrated by teenagers, with implications for violence and their psychological well-being. Hate speech on social media, particularly in the Indonesian context, presents a multifaceted challenge that requires a combination of technological solutions, legal frameworks, and community interventions to effectively combat its spread and impact. By utilizing insights from research on hate speech detection, empathy promotion, and regulatory frameworks, stakeholders can work towards creating a safer and more inclusive online environment in Indonesia. Strengthening digital literacy, as suggested in the references, is essential to empower individuals to identify and respond effectively to hate speech. Legal measures, as emphasized in the references, play an important role in combating hate speech, with the establishment of specialized units such as the Indonesian Virtual Police contributing to monitoring and handling hate speech incidents. Community engagement and educational programs, as discussed in the references, are crucial in promoting dialogue, tolerance, and understanding to foster a culture of mutual respect and empathy.

Meningkatkan Integritas Sebagai Mahasiswa Merupakan Implementasi Wujud Bela Negara

This journal discusses the concept and implementation of state defense in the context of student life. State defense is an important concept to strengthen and protect the country's sovereignty, as well as build awareness and a sense of national responsibility towards their country. This journal focuses on the conceptual framework of state defense, including the values contained in the concept. Values such as patriotism, loyalty to the country, concern for the environment, and a sense of social responsibility are crucial in building a strong sense of state defense in university students. Furthermore, this journal analyzes how state defense can be implemented in everyday life as a student. The research method used is qualitative description, while the type of research is library research, the activity is carried out by collecting data related to the title which is literature. Through good civic education, active participation in social and political activities, and real contributions to state development. In addition, this journal also discusses how improving integrity as a student is an implementation of state defense and also the reasons why improving integrity and state defense are very important. The author suggests several ways that can be done to improve integrity as a student to realize state defense and citizenship in universities, expand community participation programs, and build awareness of the importance of state defense through mass media and social campaigns. This journal summarizes the importance of state defense in building and protecting state defense, and provides a framework that can be used by educational institutions in implementing the concept of state defense. It is hoped that readers of this journal will gain a better understanding of state defense and the importance of building state defense awareness.

Evaluation of one-house one-larvae observer program in controlling dengue hemorrhagic fever in Central Sulawesi

Dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) is still a health problem in Poso District. This can be seen from the high number of DHF cases and potential outbreaks from 2017 to 2018. The local government took the initiative to prevent DHF outbreaks in Poso Regency. The Central Sulawesi Provincial Health Office and the Poso Regency Health Office have implemented onehouse one-larvae observer program in the Poso Kota Selatan District area by engaging the local government and community. The implementation of the program and its accomplishments requires evaluation. This study aims to evaluate the one-house one-larvae observer program using input, process, output, and outcome indicators. The research adopts a descriptive-qualitative approach, employing observation and interviews within an evaluation research design. Data analysis was performed using interpretation and triangulation methods. Policy documents are available, and human resources supporting the program are in compliance with the decree. However, the budget for the program is insufficient, while the available infrastructure is sufficient. The process indicators demonstrate satisfactory progress. Based on outputs, there was an increase in achievement against the program target of the number of buildings inspected by house larvae observers over four years. The outcome indicator in the form of the larvae-free rate increased by >90% during one year of program implementation. The implementation of local innovations initiated by the Regency Health Office and stakeholders’ engagement has been proven to increase community participation in programs that impact the achievement of program outputs and outcomes.

Individual and social determinants of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and uptake in Northwest Syria

IntroductionThe COVID-19 outbreak devastated the fragmented health system in Syria, a war-torn country, and exaggerated the demands for humanitarian assistance. COVID-19 vaccination was rolled out in Northwest Syria, an area out of government control, in May 2021. However, vaccine acceptance rates are still minimal, which is reflected in the meager percentage of vaccinated people. The study aims to investigate the effectiveness of the humanitarian actors’ plans to address the COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and conclude practical strategies for boosting vaccine uptake in Northwest Syria.Methods and materialsTwo questionnaires were developed to collect data from humanitarian organizations involved in the COVID-19 vaccination campaign and people from northwest Syria. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 22 data analysis program.ResultsAccording to the findings, 55.5% of people refused the COVID-19 vaccine. The results showed a knowledge gap and lack of evidence regarding humanitarian actors’ strategies to address the vaccine’s low uptake. Besides, it was found that doctors and medical workers were reliable sources of information about the vaccine. However, they were not systematically engaged in community mobilization and risk communication to promote people’s perspectives on the vaccine.ConclusionRisk communication and community engagement programs were not significantly associated with increasing the COVID-19 acceptance rate. Humanitarian actors must reconsider their strategies to address vaccine hesitancy in Northwest Syria. These strategies should engage medical professionals through dialogue sessions on the realities of the pandemic and vaccine development mechanism based on a compelling and evidence-based approach.

Consumer knowledge and understanding of food labelling information in Klipgat region, of South Africa

Food labels are the first source of information customers come across when sourcing a food product. Labels provide information about the ingredients, nutritional content, allergens, as well as the origin and advice on the food’s processing and preservation conditions. This information allows the consumer to make informed food choices. Although food labels are provided to help consumers choose healthy foods, it is not established whether they know and understand the information to use to their advantage. The need to comprehend consumer knowledge, understand food labelling information, and whether it could influence consumer choices are vital to researchers, policymakers, and the food industry. The study investigated the knowledge and understanding of food labelling information among Klipgat consumers. In a cross-sectional community-based study with a structured questionnaire, 400 participants were conveniently interviewed on consumer knowledge, understanding of information, and utilization of labelling information. A chi-square for the association of variables compared differences in the districts, and p-value <0.05 was regarded as significantly different. Overall, 79.9% of the study group from all three regions knew that processed food must have a label. Most respondents in the three regions were males (64%). There was a general lack of knowledge about food labelling information (x2=10.726; p=0.03), especially with terms such as trans-fatty acids (23.1%), monounsaturated fat (5.3%), Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) (15.3%) and Genetically Modified Organism (GMO), (14.7%). Socio-demographic characteristics including gender (p=0.030), age (p=0.030), language (p=0.030) and educational level (p=0.030) were significantly associated with consumers’ knowledge and understanding of the labels. The results from this study are useful for the development of communication and awareness strategies of food labelling information, with special emphasis on the use of simpler terminologies. This paper advocates for the development of a “food labelling forum,” consisting of relevant stakeholders with a mandate to; establish, implement, and maintain food labeling strategies, community engagement and general food labeling awareness programs especially in typical communities of South Africa. Key words: communities, food labelling information, labelling terminology, consumer label understanding

Musculoskeletal Pain Description in Adolescence with Internet Addiction: Community Engagement in Senior High School

Background: Some bad postures resulting from bad habits that had lasted since childhood, especially posture while accessing internet using gadget, might lead to some complications in adolescence. Aim: In this community engagement program, we tried to explore internet addiction and musculoskeletal pain proportions in some students. Material and methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted in a senior high school at Jonggol, West Java, in February 2023. Students were gathered to have an education class about good posture. Before the education session, we asked the students to explore whether they had internet addiction and musculoskeletal pain by filling out the Indonesian Internet Addiction Diagnostic Questionnaire and Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire. Results: Thirty-nine students were involved in this study. As many as 19 (48.7%) students have an internet addiction. More than 50% of the addicted students often have moderate-severe pain in their neck, back and right wrist and reported that the pain interferes with their daily activities. Conclusions: Almost half of students attending posture education class had internet addiction and musculoskeletal pain. A further study with a larger sample size needs to be conducted to show the correlation between internet addiction and musculoskeletal pain in adolescence and other factors that correlate with them.

Psychoeducation program “Me and Marriage: Marriage with Preparation” as a prevention of early marriage

Commitment to a romantic relationship is a developmental task of early adulthood that usually manifests as marriage. The government has established a minimum age of marriage for both men and women. Nonetheless, specific regions in West Java still witness marriages of couples under this prescribed age when early marriage can bring difficulties for young couples adjusting their roles as husband or wife, parents, and partaking in childcare and conflict resolution. This issue is evident in Cipacing, Jatinangor, with many instances of adolescent marriages, child stunting cases, and adolescents committing risky behaviors. Thus, the present Community Engagement (PPM) program aims to provide knowledge and awareness for adolescents and early adults regarding the significance of preparatory measures before marriage. The activity focuses on educating the meaning of marriage, essential premarital preparations, and self-identification related to marriage readiness. A total of 40 adolescents and early adults participated in the activity. Our analysis of pre-and post-test scores revealed improved mean scores by a majority of participants, indicating increased knowledge. Recommendations for future activities include optimizing the socialization process by adopting a more concise timeframe and employing a delivery method that ensures ease of comprehension, allowing the next program to run more efficiently and effectively.