Community Gathering Research Articles

Revealed reality of cultivation and licit/illicit use of Cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) in the western mid-hills of Nepal: a list experiment

Cannabis has a long history of utilization in various regions around the world for different purposes. In western Nepal, Cannabis is specifically used as a food crop, textile material, and lucrative cash crop, although the Nepali Narcotic Drug Control Act of 1976 ultimately prohibits Nepali farmers from sowing, trading, or selling their Cannabis crop. Regardless of this act, farmers are continuing these practices illegally, especially in remote regions where Cannabis has grown for centuries. The purpose of this study was to understand the current social acceptability of Cannabis cultivation in rural Nepal and to consider the future potential for legitimate cultivation. We tested two interconnected behaviors associated with Cannabis farming in the hill regions of western Nepal. The item count technique was applied to estimate the number of farmers who actively sow or plant Cannabis, and may also be selling Cannabis husks, a byproduct used in illicit drug production, for income generation. We compared our item count treatment with a direct questionnaire for farmers within the same region. Our results indicate that planting Cannabis is not a sensitive behavior, as more than 97% of the respondents directly stated that they plant Cannabis. The item count technique, however, did indicate that selling Cannabis husks is a sensitive behavior, where 29% were shown to sell husks when they were asked using the item count technique, whereas 2% of the farmers confirmed selling husks when asked directly. We also found that all the households in our study consumed seeds, which are highly nutritious food crops, both at home and at community gatherings. Direct questionnaire surveys also revealed that farmers can trade their seed crops for goods such as salt, soap, and oil or sell them for cash income. Thus, the current law, which is based solely on drug control, needs to be changed on the basis of the revealed multifaceted values and realities, including health, culture and rural economic development.

HCI methods supporting urban design evaluation using virtual environments

HCI methods supporting urban design evaluation using virtual environments

Uptake and determinants of routine vaccines among children aged 12–23 months in adansi South district of Ghana. a cross-sectional study

BackgroundRoutine childhood vaccination (RCV) has demonstrated its effectiveness, saving millions of lives globally and reducing childhood mortality. However, several factors impede mothers from completing their children’s vaccination schedule. The purpose of this study was to determine factors influencing RCV among children aged 12–23 months in the Adansi South District (ASD) of Ghana.MethodsA cross-sectional community-based survey with a census approach was conducted involving 3,312 mothers with children aged 12–23 months. Frequency and percentage, bivariate, and hierarchical binary logistic regression analyses were used to identify the factors related to RCV.ResultsThe number of fully vaccinated children was 56.8% with partially vaccinated being 43.2%, indicating a low full RCV. The factors that influenced RCV included the child’s birth order (AOR = 0.653, [0.452-–0.945], p = 0.024), maternal religious affiliation (AOR = 1.315, [1.098–1.575], p = 0.003), Antenatal care (ANC) contacts (AOR = 2.045, [1.315–3.179], p = 0.001), number of times ANC contacted (AOR = 0.597, [0.502–0.710], p = 0.000), and child (AOR = 1.842, [1.566–2.166], p = 0.000) and mother’s age (AOR = 2.346, [1.369–4.019], p = 0.002). Maternal (AOR = 1.461, [1.143–1.866], p = 0.002) and spousal income adequacy (AOR = 1.590, [1.081–2.337], p = 0.018), spouse’s income irregularity (AOR = 2.292, [1.757–2.987], p = 0.000), and if spouse’s income is the sole source of livelihood (AOR = 1.751, [1.271–2.414], p = 0.001), type of material used for house construction (AOR = 1.459, [1.046–2.033], p = 0.026), and the type of housing for dwelling (AOR = 1.570, [1.310–1.881], p = 0.000), as well as mothers’ perception of vaccines, and vaccination activities (AOR = 1.333, [1.137–1.562], p = 0.000) influence RCV in the district.ConclusionsThe relatively low uptake of RCV is indicative of low herd immunity among these children and posing a potential risk of causing vaccine-preventable diseases (VPD) outbreaks and subsequent health issues among children. The Ghana Health Service should offer flexible scheduling and reminder systems for vaccination appointments in the district. The GHS should prioritise targeted interventions during child welfare clinics (CWC), ANC contacts, and community gatherings to educate mothers on the importance of childhood vaccinations.

Effect of participating in Kayoi-no-ba during the COVID-19 pandemic on frailty 1 year later in older adults.

This study examined the short-term effects of participation in Kayoi-no-ba - community gathering places for residents to contribute to care prevention with the support of volunteers in Japan - on frailty status during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, based on a 1-year longitudinal study of older adults. Participants (n = 3899) were aged ≥65 years. At baseline, they were classified into four groups, based on their frequency of participation in Kayoi-no-ba before and after the COVID-19 pandemic: the nonparticipation group, the continued participation group, the interrupted participation group and the new participation group. Frailty status, assessed using the modified Kihon Checklist, was the dependent variable. A generalized linear mixed-effects model was used to compare frailty status changes after a 1-year follow up in the four groups. The frailty prevalence at baseline was 30.8% in the nonparticipation group, and 37.2% in the participation group. The frailty prevalence in the participation group was significantly reduced at the 1-year follow up (-3.9 percentage points [95% CI -7.4, -0.5]), compared with that of the nonparticipation group. In subgroup analyses, the frailty prevalence was reduced at the 1-year follow up in the order of continued participation group (-4.5 percentage points [95% CI -8.9, -0.2]), new participation group (-4.0 percentage points [95% CI -12.9, 5.0]), and interrupted participation group (-2.4 percentage points [95% CI -9.1, 4.3]), compared with the nonparticipation group (P = 0.024 for trend). Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, participation in Kayoi-no-ba was effective in preventing/reducing frailty. Thus, avoiding prolonged nonparticipation in Kayoi-no-ba might be important. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; 25: 598-605.

Health Equity Through Black Feminist Healing: A Narrative Review on the Contributions of Black Womxn to Integrative Medicine

Background Black women and Black femme-identifying individuals (referred to as womxn) have developed alternative health practices that support their well-being when navigating oppressive systems. Within the U.S. healthcare system, Black womxn are disproportionally impacted by inequities and discriminatory practices, leading to higher incidences of chronic conditions, limited healthcare access, and higher mortality rates. Integrative medicine has not yet adequately examined or incorporated healing modalities practiced by Black womxn and therefore has not investigated its potential to foster more inclusive care. Objectives This critical narrative review aims to explore the contributions of Black womxn to integrative medicine, identify components of Black feminist healing modalities, and discuss future directions for integrating these practices into integrative medicine. Methods A critical review was conducted using databases including PubMed, JSTOR, Taylor & Francis Online, and Sage to gather academic and praxis-focused sources. Books and films related to Black womxn healing practices were also examined. Sources were selected based on their focus on non-Western, alternative, and complementary therapies developed and practiced by Black womxn in the United States. Results We identified three key categories of Black feminist healing modalities: (1) Communal Care and Communication, which includes practices like storytelling, gossip, and community gathering to foster resilience; (2) Art as a Form of Cultural Strengthening, which emphasizes the use of creative expression for healing and resistance; and (3) Spirituality. These modalities provide tools for Black womxn to resist systemic oppression and promote well-being. Conclusion Black feminist healing modalities are crucial for creating inclusive models of care that address the specific health needs of marginalized communities. Incorporating these modalities into healthcare can contribute to health equity by offering culturally relevant and holistic approaches to health for Black womxn and other historically minoritized groups. Future research should focus on developing evidence-based practices for integrating these modalities into clinical settings.

Validation of a Novel Low-Cost Glaucoma Risk Calculator for Community-Based Screening in High-Risk Populations.

To assess the validity of a novel, low-cost glaucoma screening calculator in determining glaucoma risk in high-risk New York communities. This prognostic community-based study was conducted in New York City neighborhoods from 2022 to 2024 among participants aged 40 years and older. Glaucoma screenings were held at community gatherings including local fairs, senior citizen homes, places of worship, and in the lobby of medical offices. The screenings were conducted by trained non-physician medical personnel comprised medical students and medical assistants working under physician supervision. Participants' intraocular pressure (IOP) and central corneal thickness (CCT) were measured in both eyes with a handheld tonometer and pachymeter, respectively. Participants then completed a comprehensive eye exam by an ophthalmologist to confirm glaucoma status. Statistical analysis was completed using MedCalc version 22.023 (MedCalc Software Ltd. Ostend, Belgium) with 95% confidence intervals. Of the 823 study participants, 716 (mean age 62.9 ± 11.9 years) were eligible to participate and completed the comprehensive follow-up exam. 68% identified as Black, 6.7% identified as Hispanic/Latino, and 52.5% identified as female. The Laroche glaucoma calculator had a sensitivity of 93.5% (CI 89.1-96.5%), specificity of 91.3% (CI 88.5-93.6%), positive predictive value of 80.5% (CI 75.7-84.6%), negative predictive value of 97.3% (CI 95.5-98.4%) and accuracy of 91.9% (CI 89.6-93.8%). The Laroche glaucoma calculator shows high sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy using affordable screening methods to determine glaucoma risk.

Association Between the Community Gatherings Places and the Kihon Checklist Score: JAGES Longitudinal Study.

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the number of program types and CGA in community gathering places to gain valid insights into the provision of programs in community gathering places. The study is longitudinal in nature and uses prospective cohort data from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study. The participants were 8758 older adults recruited from 28 cities and towns. The dependent variable was the CGA using the KCL. The independent variable was the number of program types in community gathering places. The participants were classified under four groups, namely, No Participation, One Type, Two Types, and More Than Three Types. The study performed linear regression analysis. The mean of the KCL scores by the number of types was 3.8 ± 3.3, 3.5 ± 3.0, 3.3 ± 2.9, and 3.2 ± 2.8 points for the four groups, respectively. CGA was better for two and three or more types of program participation. CGA at 3 years was better when the community gathering places implemented two or more types of program.

Cross-sectional study of factors related to declining participation in community gathering places providing communal meals: A social marketing framework

Objectives While Community gathering places known as "kayoi-no-ba" providing communal meals play a crucial role in promoting the health of older adults, the researches supporting their operations and maintenance is limited. Social marketing has been successful in implementing strategic public health programs. This study aimed to identify factors associated with declining participation in kayoi-no-ba providing communal meals using a social marketing framework based on the 4Ps marketing mix (product, promotion, place, and price).Methods In November 2019, this cross-sectional study surveyed kayoi-no-ba providing communal meals nationwide via a mail. A total of 580 kayoi-no-ba organizers with complete data participated. Changes in the number of participants were assessed using a questionnaire in order to determine the decrease since their establishment. Survey items were organized based on the 4Ps marketing mix framework and treated as independent variables. Multivariate Poisson regression analysis was conducted with participant decrease as the dependent variable, and prevalence ratios (PR) were calculated. The opening period and the number of participants at the time of the survey were included as covariates.Results A total of 154 kayoi-no-ba experienced the decline in participants (26.6%). Multivariate analysis revealed the following. For product variables, a high frequency of monthly events was significantly associated with a lower PR for participant decrease (0.92). Among promotion variables, kayoi-no-ba with a registration system had a significantly higher PR for participant decrease (1.49). For place variables, a higher population density in the region was significantly associated with a lower PR (0.90), whereas a higher ratio of the population aged 65 years and older was significantly associated with a higher PR (1.05). The price variables did not show a significant association with the decrease in participants.Conclusions Except price, the other three marketing 4Ps were significantly associated with decreases in participants at kayoi-no-ba providing communal meals. Future efforts should focus on developing and evaluating kayoi-no-ba strategies to ensure sustained participant engagement and promote the health of older adults through communal meals.

EDNA metabarcoding: a non-invasive method to track temporal community dynamics in temporary rivers

Temporary rivers (TRs) are dynamic ecosystems that alternate between hydrological phases (i.e. flowing, disconnected pools, and dry). They are conservation refugia for aquatic species during dry seasons but are often neglected in bioassessment programs. To assess the biological quality of these ecosystems, morphology methods can be invasive, disrupting communities and diminishing their function as refugia. Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding provides a minimally invasive method, gathering community information from eDNA in water or sediment. We tested the effectiveness of eDNA methods alongside bulk DNA to characterize the macroinvertebrate communities and assess the biological quality of disconnected pools in TRs, comparing them with morphological methods. Additionally, we tested how the community patterns evolve over time using eDNA and how community composition shifts during disconnection. Biological quality was determined through macroinvertebrate indices widely used in Spain (i.e., IBMWP, family richness, and IASPT). eDNA samples were collected biweekly from three TRs in Catalonia, NE Spain. Macroinvertebrates were sampled during the three hydrological phases (connected, disconnecting, and disconnected pools). Macroinvertebrate samples were used to identify organisms using morphology and to sequence bulk DNA. eDNA and bulk DNA samples were sequenced through metabarcoding targeting the mitochondrial COI gene. Although communities determined by sediment eDNA did not detect variations in biotic indices (i.e., IBMWP and family richness), the method was useful to detect the replacement of EPT (Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, Trichoptera) by OCH (Odonata, Coleoptera, Heteroptera). Additionally, sediment eDNA revealed significant impacts of hydrological changes on meiofauna (Ostracoda, Cladocera, Copepoda), a group often overlooked in stream assessments. These results indicate that sediment eDNA metabarcoding can serve as a valuable tool for the bioassessment of TRs, capturing the transitions between hydrological phases while preserving ecosystem integrity.

Analysis of Environmental Care Character in Students To Create Health Islamic Boarding Schools

Background: The concept of disease is the impact of an imbalance between host, agent (disease) and environment. Instilling a culture and character that cares about the environment needs to be done from an early age. Islamic boarding school education is considered to be in line with and able to describe complex forms of society in a simple scope, one of which is Islamic boarding school as an educational institution which is a complex environment for community gathering. This research aims to analyze the relationship between the environmentally caring character that is formed in students and the Clean and Healthy Living Behavior (PHBS) that they follow. Method: This research method is a descriptive observational cross sectional study, namely a research design where measurements and observations are carried out simultaneously at one time. The research subjects were high school students in Jambi City, where the research population was middle school students in Jambi City Islamic boarding schools. The research sample consisted of 111 respondents. Results There is a relationship between the characteristics of caring for the environment and clean and healthy living behavior among Islamic boarding school students. Bivariate analysis using the chi square test showed a p value of 0.002 (<0.05). Conclusion: The character of caring for the environment in students is related to clean and healthy living behavior.

SOCIAL CONSEQUENCES AND TRANSFORMATIONS IN THE URBAN ENVIRONMENT OF IVANO-FRANKIVSK UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF SOVIET ARCHITECTURE

The study highlights the complex impact of Soviet architecture on the urban environment of Ivano-Frankivsk, examining the social, cultural, and spatial changes that occurred during the Soviet period. Ivano-Frankivsk, historically rich in architectural heritage and cultural diversity, underwent significant transformation under socialist policy. During this period, the city’s architecture adopted distinctive features restrained lines, monumental forms, and minimal ornamentation that aligned with the broader principles of socialist realism. The expansion of residential construction, the introduction of standardized housing districts, and an emphasis on functionality reflected the state's efforts to shape a "new socialist way of life" and foster a collective social consciousness. In the context of rapid population growth and increased demand for housing, the Soviet architectural model introduced the concept of standardized, multi-stage residential construction, intended to meet the needs of a large urban population. One of the main transformations involved the social effects of housing policy, including the shift away from traditional architectural styles, the loss of national identity in the urban space, and a reduction in the uniqueness of residential areas. The article examines how these architectural changes influenced social dynamics, the emergence of new social groups, and the formation of urban residents’ identities. Special attention is given to the analysis of communal spaces and cultural centers, including parks, squares, and public buildings, which served as focal points for community gathering and the creation of a shared social space. The application of Soviet architectural design principles aimed to transform the urban environment into a symbol of ideological unity and discipline. However, this approach often led to a sense of disconnection among citizens from their surroundings, creating a gap between the official architectural agenda and the actual needs of the city’s inhabitants. The article also examines the contemporary status of Soviet architectural heritage, which remains a topic of debate and criticism among researchers and residents. The issue of preserving and renovating Soviet-era buildings is still relevant, as these structures, while historically valuable, often fail to meet modern architectural and environmental standards. The author explores potential ways to integrate Soviet architectural heritage into the modern urban context, proposing approaches to reinterpret and adapt these buildings to fulfill current social and cultural needs. Thus, the article offers a significant contribution to the study of Ivano-Frankivsk's architectural transformation under Soviet influence. It not only provides insights into how Soviet architectural policy altered the urban environment but also raises questions about the role of this legacy in contemporary Ukrainian urban planning.

Creating a MultiFunctional Public Facility in Jegunovtse, North Macedonia: A Fusion of Theatre, Culture, and Administrative Spaces

The objective of this research is to provide an overview of the archi�tectural concept and execution of a building that effectively combines administrative and cultural functions. The construction of the building took place in Jegunovtse, Republic of North Macedonia, covering an area of 19911 m2 and including 796 units. The primary aim of this project is to provide a harmonious operational integration inside a building that encompasses three distinct functions: theater, culture, and administrative spaces. The proposed project includes a subterranean area designated for technological infrastructure and storage purposes. Multipurpose rooms occupy the ground level, while administrative functions occupy the first floor. The methodology employed in this study comprises three primary phases. The initial phase entails conducting a thorough and meticulous analysis of the site. As a result, the second phase entails the creation of a strategic functional program. Finally, the third phase includes research into the selection of materials and techniques in conjunction with construction. The findings indicate that the architectural layout of the facility demonstrates a high level of adaptability in accommodating many uses, including but not limited to communal gatherings, theatrical presentations, and community gatherings. The multi-purpose hall enhances versatility by including telescoping stands and flexible seats, allowing for efficient adaptation. One noteworthy architectural element is the integration of detachable partition panels, which provide versatility in extending the hall into an outside area, creating a delightful summer ambiance. In conclusion, the establishment cultivates a sense of community engagement by providing a flexible environment that may support various cultural and administrative programs. This project demonstrates the notable outcomes achieved via the use of adaptive design principles in the development of adaptable public spaces.

Knowledge, attitude, and preventive behaviors related to HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections among Myanmar migrants in Chiang Mai province, Thailand.

Despite progress in controlling HIV/AIDS and STIs, these health challenges persist, with 39.9 million people living with HIV in 2023 and more than 350 million affected by STIs annually. Thailand is a major migrant hub in Southeast Asia. This study investigated the factors influencing preventive behaviors related to HIV/AIDS and STIs among Myanmar migrants in Chiang Mai province, Thailand. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023 among 424 Myanmar migrants aged 18-45 years. Participants were selected through convenience sampling from a local hospital and community gathering locations in Chiang Mai province. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors influencing preventive behaviors. The participants' average age was 29.92 years; 56.8% were married, and 67.5% had completed primary or lower education. The average monthly income was <10,000 THB (47.6%). Most participants had a good knowledge level of HIV (63.2%), while 80% had poor knowledge of STIs. Among the sexually active participants (n = 274), 91.2% had good preventive behavior. The multivariate analysis indicated that migrants working in non-construction or day labor roles were less likely to practice preventive behaviors (aOR = 0.210, 95% CI: 0.046-0.972, p = 0.046). Additionally, migrants who had lived in Chiang Mai for more than 10 years were less likely to engage in preventive behaviors (aOR = 0.067, 95% CI: 0.010-0.465, p = 0.006). There was a statistically significant association between preventive behaviors and a positive attitude, with an aOR of 4.575 (95% CI: 1.226-17.073, p = 0.024). Low STI knowledge and negative attitudes toward condom use were found in this study. Culturally relevant and sensitive interventions and effective sexual health education are needed.

Feeding the cities: Urban agriculture for food security and sustainability of urban areas

Abstract With the increasing migration of people to urban areas, the demand for extra, fresh, and healthy food in cities has escalated manyfold. Further, anthropogenic activities, high rise buildings, and unplanned construction in urban areas are increasing urban heat. Therefore, the objective of this study is to review the salient features and constraints of urban agriculture, in addition to illustrating traditional and modern approaches, and policies used worldwide to promote the urban agriculture (UA). Urban agriculture is a key component of sustainable urban development that plays a pivotal role in combating food security and malnutrition in peri-urban and urban areas by growing different fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, herbs, flowering and ornamental plants in urban dwellings for food and aesthetic purposes. UA often combines with other functions like urban greening, biodiversity, waste recycling, environmental disaster reduction, CO 2 absorption, urban heat island reduction, recreational benefits, contributing to the circular economy and UN sustainable development goals (SDGs). Plants in UA are grown in vacant open spaces, rooftops, balconies and containers, resulting in urban organic harvest by fostering income and health improvement. The concept of UA is being utilized efficiently in many countries. However, there is still a need to promote UA by arranging community gatherings and school students, creating awareness and capacity building through education and training. Growers need to be connected to land and open spaces, enhancing value addition in UA and formulating supportive policies to foster Agri-tourism in urban farms to making it a successful initiative. Recent innovative research ideas and new technological developments such as artificial intelligence (AI), internet of things (IoT), automation and mechanization in UA are opening new avenues for quality food production in urban areas for sustainable cities.

Collaborating for growth: Insights from Publisherspeak UK 2024, a scholarly publishing community gathering – part 1

Key points Publisherspeak UK 2024, sponsored by Kriyadocs, facilitated breakout sessions to tackle key challenges in scholarly publishing. Themes explored included research integrity, interoperability, environmental sustainability, and research communities. Solutions focused on enhancing collaboration, standardizing industry guidelines, and improving efficiency across publishing workflows. Delegates developed strategies to address the diffusion of responsibility in research integrity and foster interoperability.

Collaborating for growth: Insights from Publisherspeak UK 2024, a scholarly publishing community gathering – part 2

Key points Publisherspeak UK 2024, sponsored by Kriyadocs, fostered collaboration among stakeholders to address scholarly publishing challenges. The environmental sustainability session focused on balancing economic priorities with environmental goals to reduce carbon footprints. The session on research communities focused on strategies to enhance stakeholder engagement and support participation in the publishing ecosystem. Delegates discussed challenges in balancing institutional and individual priorities, focusing on strategies that promote inclusivity and diversity.

Duke Research at Pickett: The evolution of a free-standing research site partnering with communities toward health equity advancement.

While clinical research intends to improve health outcomes for all, access to research participation is often limited and inequitable. Geographic proximity is a recognized barrier, thus, systemic infrastructure solutions through federal programs including General Clinical Research Centers and Clinical and Translational Science Awards have sought to improve accessibility. Even with such support, academic medical centers often have limited clinical research-dedicated space apart from shared exam rooms in difficult-to-navigate hospitals or clinics. In 2019, the Duke University School of Medicine looked beyond its medical center campus to identify free-standing sites within Durham communities for participant study visits. Catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Duke Research at Pickett, a 22 000-square-foot building with a laboratory, 30 exam rooms, and on-site parking, opened in October 2020 to support vaccine and treatment trials. Upon the lifting of many COVID-19 restrictions, and in partnership with the Research Equity and Diversity Initiative (READI) Community Advisory Council, the building was transformed to encourage community gatherings, education, and training programs. To date, Duke Research at Pickett has hosted 2692 participants in 78 research trials and 14 community-engaged activities.

Role of Meaningful Social Participation and Technology Use in Mitigating Loneliness and Cognitive Decline Among Older Adults.

Community social participation aids dementia prevention and alleviates loneliness among older adults. Incorporating occupational therapy using information and communications technology (ICT) could potentially delay dementia onset and reduce loneliness. To quantify how meaningful social participation, participation frequency, ICT use, and expanded social networks influence cognitive function and loneliness among socially active older Japanese adults. Cross-sectional exploratory study using structural equation modeling. Meetings organized by older adults at seven community gathering places in Osaka Prefecture, Japan. One hundred thirteen healthy older adult cohort members. Cognitive function assessed via Mini-Cog; loneliness assessed via the condensed UCLA Loneliness Scale. The final model demonstrated excellent fit, χ2(23) = 28.291, p = .205 (root mean square error of approximation = .045, 90% confidence interval [.000, .094]; confirmatory factor index = .995; Tucker-Lewis Index = .993). ICT use directly affected social networks (β = 0.472), which directly influenced participation frequency (β = 0.324) and meaningful social participation (β = 0.381). The indirect effect of meaningful participation significantly improved cognitive function (β = 0.237). The only indirect effect of meaningful interpersonal participation was a reduction in loneliness (β = -0.235). ICT use contributes to the expansion of social networks among elderly people. Furthermore, the frequency of social participation and the meaningfulness of such participation are related to reduction in loneliness and maintenance of cognitive function. Although the frequency of social participation was not directly related to these outcomes, the results suggest that meaningful social participation may play an important role in reducing loneliness and maintaining cognitive function. Plain-Language Summary: The promotion of social participation among older people is a global phenomenon, driven by the recognition of its positive relationship with cognitive function and the alleviation of loneliness. Nevertheless, older people's social participation is constrained by a combination of physical and social factors. To address this issue, there has been a push to promote social participation based on information and communications technology (ICT). However, no specific study has been conducted on occupational therapists' perspective in capturing social participation and the use of ICT. The findings of this study show that using ICT has the potential to enhance opportunities for social interaction for older adults, thereby improving the quality and quantity of social participation. The quality of social participation was identified as the sole factor that had a positive impact on cognitive function and loneliness. This study suggests the need for occupational therapists to consider means of facilitating the use of ICTs among older adults as well as interventions that use occupational therapy theory to enhance the meaningfulness of existing social participation opportunities.

Penyuluhan Optimalisasi Drainase Pedesaan Sebagai Langkah Maju Menuju Lingkungan Yang Lebih Baik

Plosasari village, located in the Puri Sub-district, Mojokerto regency, Jawa Timur, deals with a severe communal drainage system problem, including erosion and environmental pollution. This community service aims to provide counselling on village drainage optimization as a step towards a better environment. The methodology to realize this service starts with a preliminary survey to investigate the existing condition of the drainage channel, preparation of presentation material based on literature review and previous survey, and finally, the implementation of the seminar in the village hall. The counselling results show that people's knowledge about the importance of drainage increased, and practical solutions to tackle common drainage problems were successfully formulated, including good drainage infrastructure planning, integrated waste management, and smart technology. Some constraints to realize those solutions include the difficulty of gathering community members and the lack of waste disposal facilities. This counselling supports the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals, especially for target number 6th, which is about clean water and sanitation, and target number 11th, which is about sustainable cities and communities, by proposing innovative and collaborative solutions for rainwater management and village drainage system. This counselling result can be implemented in other villages facing similar problems to improve the health and environmental conditions in the community.

Intimate Language in Traditional Markets: Challenging Public Space Norms through Kristeva’s Intertextuality

The use of intimate language in public spaces is a phenomenon that emerges in the interactions of economic actors in traditional markets. Therefore, language intimacy deconstructs social norms that should not be displayed in public spaces. However, language intimacy has emerged in traditional markets for a long time in the interactions of economic actors, including sellers, buyers, porters, parking attendants, and the social gathering community. This research explores how intimate language is articulated in an economic space closely related to the ethnic identity of economic actors in traditional markets in the Jember region. The ethnic diversity in question includes Javanese, Madurese, Chinese/Chinese, and Arab. This phenomenon was researched qualitatively using a post-structuralist approach and applying Julia Kristeva's theory of intertextuality. Data analysis uses two Kristeva concepts, namely intertextuality and suprasegmental. The data is processed by looking at the text production process originating inside and outside the text. The research results show that the intimacy of language, usually used in the private sphere, has succeeded in breaking down the rigidity of language in the public sphere, besides dissolving social relations between economic actors with various ethnicities and social classes. Thus, the use of greetings in intimate language closely related to ethnic identity is experiencing development and merging with the space of familiarity and closeness built by economic actors in traditional markets.