Development Of Effective Programs Research Articles

Special Considerations for Management of Diabetes in Adult Patients with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic health condition that is very prevalent worldwide. It has been demonstrated that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) are at a disproportionately high risk for developing diabetes. Persons with IDDs are estimated to be 2-3 times more likely to develop DM compared to the general population. The elevated risk of developing diabetes within the population of adults with IDDs is multifactorial and includes contributions from genetics, lifestyle, medication use and misuse, boundaries to appropriate medical care, a higher incidence of comorbid mental health disorders, and others. Further, inadequate screening for and management of diabetes for these patients results in heightened risk for adverse cardiovascular events and inferior health care outcomes. To improve patient outcomes for this unique patient population, health care providers need to be well trained in the optimal modalities of screening, diagnosis, and management of diabetes in adults with IDDs. This requires the development of effective diabetes intervention and health promotion programs aimed at patients with IDDs, utilizing a patient-centered approach to screening and management, and conducting further research to assess the impact of these interventions.

Положення концепції трансформації інноваційного розвитку експортно-імпортної діяльності суб’єктів господарювання у воєнних і повоєнних умовах

The article is aimed at forming provisions of the conception of transformation of the innovative development of export-import activity of economic entities (EIAEE), taking into account research by scientists and practitioners, current legislative orders of the State in the sphere of economy, practices of functioning and development of this activity, substantiation of expediency of implementation of these provisions in the wartime and post-war conditions. The article briefly analyzes the state of economy in Ukraine in the current conditions. A grouping of conceptions of innovative development by directions is provided. The concepts of «development» and «innovative development» are closer defined. The following provisions of the conception of transformation of innovative development of export-import activity of economic entities under conditions of limited activity are substantiated: 1) in the conditions of wartime and in the post-war period, the assistance of developed countries and international organizations accelerates the innovative development of the EIAEE in Ukraine; 2) government management of investments promotes innovative development of export-import activities; 3) transformation of innovation development of the EIAEE will take place in several stages; 4) with the help of innovative development of the EIAEE, a systemic economic strategy for the country’s recovery is successfully implemented; 5) government support for the development of entrepreneurial activity contributes to the innovative development of the EIAEE; 6) new signs of innovative development of the EIAEE are the training through export, digitalization of this activity, innovative competitiveness of human capital, increase of innovatively active enterprises, differentiation of the origin of investments and verification of their purity, transition in international trade from off-shoring to friend-shoring, establishment of criteria for determining friendly investments; 7) the results of evaluation, analysis, diagnostics, monitoring of innovative development of the EIAEE create an analytical basis for wartime risk insurance instruments, which is one of the prerequisites for attracting foreign direct investment; 8) formation of a sufficient level of export-import potential ensures innovative development of the EIAEE and its sustainability; 9) in the process of international scientific and technical cooperation, innovative development of the EIAEE is carried out; 10) management of innovation development of the EIAEE consists in choosing the best option for this development; 11) competitiveness ensures the innovative development of the EIAEE. These provisions create a scientific basis for the development of effective management programs, measures at all levels of management both in the war and the post-war situation

Bringing mindfulness to teacher professional development for social-emotional competence in teaching

Teacher stress is an international issue that is crucial for the stability and effectiveness of educational systems worldwide. Consequently, there has been a longstanding interest in the factors that cause occupational stress for teachers and ways to eliminate them. In this regard, the importance of teachers' social-emotional competence, which acts as a protective factor against stressful situations, has been particularly emphasized. This study aimed to explain teachers' socialemotional competence and compile mindfulness-based professional development programs designed to promote it, utilizing a literature review as a research methodology. Accordingly, this study explained the Cultivating Awareness and Resilience in Education (CARE) professional development program. It also presented an overview and synthesis of representative research studies and provided implications for teacher professional development. It attempted to draw attention to the importance of involving social-emotional competence, which is closely related to teacher and teaching quality, in the development of more effective teacher education programs.

Simultaneous molecular detection of Anaplasma marginale and Theileria annulata in cattle blood samples collected from Pakistan-Afghanistan boarder region.

Theileria annulata (T. annulata) and Anaplasma marginale (A. marginale) are among the most extensively reported tick borne pathogens and are associated with huge economic losses worldwide. A total of 298 cattle blood samples were screened to report the presence of these two pathogens. The samples were collected from apparently healthy cattle (Achai, n = 155, Jersy, n = 88 and crossbred, n = 55) in Bajaur district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) during June and July of 2022. A total of 31 out of 298 cattle (10.4%) were found infected with T. annulata as PCR amplified a 156 base pair fragment from Tams-1 gene of T. annulata from their blood. While 16/298 animals (5.4%) were found infected with A. marginale as they amplified a 382 base pair fragment specific for msp5 gene of this bacterium. Three animals (1%) were found co infected. Cattle susceptibility to T. annulata infection was significantly higher than A. marginale infection (P < 0.001). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Pakistani isolates of both detected pathogen clustered together and were closely related isolates from worldwide countries. Prevalence of T. annulata varied significantly among the sampling sites (P = 0.05) while no such association was observed for A. marginale among the tested cattle. Epidemiological data analysis revealed that none of the studied risk factors was found associated either with the prevalence of T. annulata or A. marginale (P > 0.05) among enrolled cattle. In conclusion, our study has revealed a relatively higher prevalence of T. annulata than A. marginale in cattle from the Bajaur district in KPK. This information is important for improving the productivity of the livestock sector, which is one of the main sources of income in the country. It is recommended that this data be taken into account for the development and implementation of effective tick control programs, as well as for the improvement of livestock management practices to prevent and manage TBDs in Pakistan.

Искусственный интеллект в политических процессах: перспективы и вызовы

The article is devoted to the consideration of the potential possibilities of introducing artificial intelligence systems based on machine learning into political processes to solve a wide range of political problems. Among the promising areas of implementation of algorithms in politics, the following can be distinguished: analysis of huge amounts of data on political processes, support for making internal and external political decisions, development of effective action programs, forecasting of political processes. In addition, the challenges and threats that the introduction of politicallyoriented algorithms in political processes produces are analyzed. At the same time, some of the specific forms of application of AI systems may have a pronounced malicious character. It is concluded that the large-scale introduction of AI systems into political processes produces many significant challenges to the inclusive democratic process, and the use of politically-oriented AI technologies for political purposes puts the issue of trust in political institutions and democracy in general on the agenda of society.

Factors Affecting Fat and Fibre Consumption of Ghanaian Pregnant Women: Findings from a Hospital-based Study

Dietary behaviours are key modifiable factors that can significantly affect pregnancy outcome. An understanding of these behaviours, including their variability according to socio-economic status and cultural diversities, could guide the development of effective nutritional policies and programmes for pregnant women in Ghana amidst the growing burden of non-communicable disease (NCDs). This hospital-based study assessed pregnant women’s fat and fiber consumption and factors affecting this behaviour. The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design and quantitative approach. Two hundred (200) pregnant women were recruited from the antenatal care (ANC) unit of the Presbyterian Hospital in Dormaa Ahenkro, Ghana, using convenience sampling technique. The Fat and Fibre Behaviour Questionnaire (FFBQ) was used to collect data for the study. The instrument was interviewer-administered. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 was used to analyze the data. Overall, fat, fibre, and total index were 2.65 (± 0.49), 2.82 (± 0.78), and 2.71 (± 0.38), respectively. Factors significantly affecting fibre index were age (H(4) = 28.21, p &lt; .001), educational status (H(4) = 28.30, p = .001), marital status (H(2) = 13.49, p = .001), ethnicity (H(3) = 23.92, p &lt; .01), and community of residence (U(Nurban = 61, Nrural = 139) = 5097.00, p = .022). Only educational status (H(4) = 10.17, p = .038) and ethnicity (H(3) = 24.77, p = .001) significantly affected fat index. The findings highlight the need to scale-up public health programmes and research in Dormaa Central Municipality, particularly on maternal nutrition and related issues.

Recommendations to develop a laparoscopic surgical simulation training program. Insights gained after 12 years of training surgeons

Introduction. The use of simulation in surgery has made it possible to shorten learning curves through deliberate practice. Although it has been incorporated long ago, there are still no clear recommendations to standardize its development and implementation. This manuscript aims to share recommendations based on our experience of more than twelve years of employing and improving a methodology in laparoscopic surgical simulation. Topics for Reflection. To transfer surgical skills to a trainee, we base our methodology on a three-pillar framework: The hardware and infrastructure (tools to train with), the training program itself (what to do), and the feedback (how to improve). Implementing a cost-effective program is feasible: the hardware does not need to be high fidelity to transfer skills, but the program needs to be validated. These pillars have evolved over time by incorporating technology: the on-site guidance from experts has changed to a remote and asynchronous modality by video recording the trainee’s execution, and by enabling remote and asynchronous feedback. The feedback provider does not necessarily have to be an expert clinician in the subject, but a person previously trained to be a trainer. This allows for deliberate practice until mastery has been reached and learning curves are consolidated. Conclusions. Recommendations based on the experience of our center have been presented, explaining the framework of our strategy. Considering these suggestions, it is hoped that our simulation methodology can aid the development and implementation of effective simulation-based programs for other groups and institutions.

Пути повышения профессионального мастерства спортсменов-рукопашников на основе сравнительного анализа зарубежных школ единоборств

High-quality information support for training highly qualified Russian athletes is impossible without the organization of a system of regular monitoring, selection, analytical processing and systematization of leading foreign coaches’, scientists’ and specialists’ publications. In this regard, the content of the research is based on a comparative analysis of training highly qualified athletes in different foreign martial arts schools.&#x0D; The article reveals various aspects of athletes’ training involving the biomechanics of motor actions, the physical development of high-class athletes, the features of their training process and competitive activity. Ways to improve various aspects of sports training are considered; specific result-oriented methods, primarily aimed at working out striking techniques with hands, are shown. Modern scientific studies of the theory and practice of training athletes are presented; a systematic analysis of the methodology in the main areas of activity is carried out. The considered distinctive features of achieving professional sport skills in foreign martial arts schools can serve as the basis for the development of effective training programs for hand-to-hand athletes.&#x0D; The author makes a conclusion that the important component in the martial arts training of boxers and hand-to-hand fighters is the achievement of a high level of technical and tactical preparedness, physical and functional development, as well as psychological stability, which together ensure the optimal level of effectiveness of the use of attacking blows and defensive combinations.

Understanding Forest Landowner Attitudes, Perceived Risk, and Response to Emerald Ash Borer in Kentucky

AbstractEmerald ash borer (EAB) (Agrilus planipennis), an invasive nonnative beetle, is responsible for the mortality of ash trees in the eastern and midwestern United States. Despite efforts to contain this beetle through various control options, human-induced spread of EAB has caused damage to ash forests in many states. Because most ash trees are under private ownership, it is important to understand how landowners evaluate the risk of EAB and perceive the effectiveness of various control options. A mail survey of private forest landowners was conducted in Kentucky in 2020 to assess their awareness and perception of various control options of EAB infestation. Results from this survey suggest that landowners are concerned about EAB and the associated increased risks, reduced quality of scenic views, and increased cleanup costs. Landowners experiencing EAB infestation believed that EAB management needs collective actions and that current efforts by government agencies are not sufficient. However, few landowners are taking actions themselves to manage EAB on their property. These findings shed light on the extent to which landowners are concerned about EAB impact and emphasize the need for development of effective control options and outreach programs to increase landowner engagement and actions in EAB control and management.

Immune Impairment Associated with Vitamin A Deficiency: Insights from Clinical Studies and Animal Model Research.

Vitamin A (VA) is critical for many biological processes, including embryonic development, hormone production and function, the maintenance and modulation of immunity, and the homeostasis of epithelium and mucosa. Specifically, VA affects cell integrity, cytokine production, innate immune cell activation, antigen presentation, and lymphocyte trafficking to mucosal surfaces. VA also has been reported to influence the gut microbiota composition and diversity. Consequently, VA deficiency (VAD) results in the imbalanced production of inflammatory and immunomodulatory cytokines, intestinal inflammation, weakened mucosal barrier functions, reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and disruption of the gut microbiome. Although VAD is primarily known to cause xerophthalmia, its role in the impairment of anti-infectious defense mechanisms is less defined. Infectious diseases lead to temporary anorexia and lower dietary intake; furthermore, they adversely affect VA status by interfering with VA absorption, utilization and excretion. Thus, there is a tri-directional relationship between VAD, immune response and infections, as VAD affects immune response and predisposes the host to infection, and infection decreases the intestinal absorption of the VA, thereby contributing to secondary VAD development. This has been demonstrated using nutritional and clinical studies, radiotracer studies and knockout animal models. An in-depth understanding of the relationship between VAD, immune response, gut microbiota and infections is critical for optimizing vaccine efficacy and the development of effective immunization programs for countries with high prevalence of VAD. Therefore, in this review, we have comprehensively summarized the existing knowledge regarding VAD impacts on immune responses to infections and post vaccination. We have detailed pathological conditions associated with clinical and subclinical VAD, gut microbiome adaptation to VAD and VAD effects on the immune responses to infection and vaccines.

Impact of Gastrointestinal Symptoms on Health-Related Quality of Life in an Australian Parkinson's Disease Cohort.

Gastrointestinal symptoms (GIS) in people with Parkinson's disease (PwP) are often underreported and may remain untreated. Constipation is a common nonmotor symptom that can adversely affect health-related quality of life (QoL); however, the impact of other GIS has not been adequately investigated. To investigate the relationship between QoL and constipation using the Bristol Stool Chart, bowel movement frequency, and a perceived constipation measure; and to explore the relationship between QoL and other GIS in an Australian PD cohort. The impact of constipation and other GIS on QoL, as measured using the PDQ-39 scale, was assessed in a cohort of 144 (89 males, 55 females) clinic-attending PwP. Constipation was assessed using the Bristol Stool Chart as well as a composite constipation measure, and the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) was used to rate other GIS. Covariate corrected linear regression models were utilised to determine significant associations between GIS and QoL scores. Individual and combined constipation measures were significantly associated with poorer QoL (p=0.032 and p=0.002, respectively). Analysis of GSRS symptom domains showed that in addition to symptoms of gastrointestinal hypomotility, a number of other symptoms such as increased eructation and increased flatus were also associated with poorer QoL. The findings point to the importance of GIS as contributor to health-related QoL in PwP. A better understanding of the relationship between GIS and QoL will help facilitate the development of more effective screening and treatment programs to improve symptom management and QoL for PwP.

Baseline susceptibility of Helicoverpa armigera, Plutella xylostella, and Spodoptera frugiperda to the meta-diamide insecticide broflanilide.

Broflanilide is a novel meta-diamide insecticide that acts as a γ-aminobutyric acid-gated chloride channel allosteric modulator. With its unique mode of action, broflanilide has no known cross-resistance with existing insecticides and is expected to be an effective tool for the management of insecticide resistance. Establishing the baseline susceptibility to this insecticide is an essential step for developing and implementing effective resistance management strategies. Here we evaluated the baseline susceptibility to broflanilide for 3 cosmopolitan lepidopteran pest species, Helicoverpa armigera, Plutella xylostella, and Spodoptera frugiperda. Broflanilide exhibited high activity against populations sampled in the major distribution range of these pests in China, with median lethal concentrations (LC50 ) ranging between 0.209 and 0.684, 0.076 and 0.336, and 0.075 and 0.219mg/L for H.armigera, P.xylostella, and S.frugiperda, respectively. Among-population variability in susceptibility to broflanilide was moderate for H.armigera (3.3-fold), P.xylostella (4.4-fold), and S.frugiperda (2.9-fold). The recommended diagnostic concentrations for H.armigera, P.xylostella, and S.frugiperda were 8, 4, and 2mg/L, respectively. Little or no cross-resistance to broflanilide was detected in 3 diamide-resistant strains of P.xylostella and 1 spinosyns-resistant strain of S.frugiperda. Our results provide critical information for the development of effective resistance management programs to sustain efficacy of broflanilide against these key lepidopteran pests.

A classification of specific movement skills and patterns during sprinting in English Premier League soccer.

The aim of this study was to quantify and contextualize sprinting actions (≥ 7.0 m/s) of English Premier League (EPL) soccer match-play with respect to the movement skills and patterns employed. Video footage (3.2.6, Premier League DVMS, ChyronHego) and raw video-based locomotor coordinates of 901 sprint efforts from 10 matches of an EPL soccer team (2017-2018), were evaluated using the Football Sprint Movement Classification System pertaining to transition, initiation, and actualisation of sprint movement skills and patterns. The results from a one-way ANOVA or independent t-test revealed that, generally, most sprinting actions begun from a linear initiation position compared to lateral or rear (63%, d = 5.0-5.3, p &lt; 0.01), without a change of direction (COD) (48%, d = 4.9-5.6, p &lt; 0.01) compared to lateral, front-back, back-front, and from forward travelling (linear and diagonal) transition movements (68%, d = 2.1-5.7, p &lt; 0.01) compared to lateral or rear. Additionally, most sprints were initiated with a rolling acceleration (66%, d = 3.2, p &lt; 0.01) compared to explosive acceleration, often performed with a degree of curvature (86%, d = 7.2, p &lt; 0.01) compared to linear, with torso rotation (62%, d = 2.7, p &lt; 0.01) compared to no rotation, and typically end with an action such as duelling with an opponent or involvement with the ball (49%). Additionally, the sprint movement characteristics proportions slightly differed across playing positions. Overall, this study confirms that sprints during EPL soccer matches are initiated from and performed with a variety of different movement skills and patterns in relation to different sport-specific outcomes. This data can be used to assist in the development of more effective physical preparation programmes, inform position-specific contextualized sprinting drills to achieve better specificity and potential transfer of training, while also informing speed testing protocols.

A qualitative investigation exploring neighbourhood environment, risks and fear of falling, and fall prevention strategies among urban-dwelling older adults in a high-density city

Abstract Falls in older adulthood can have serious consequences. It is therefore important to identify ways to prevent falls, particularly from the voice of older adults. Bottom-up qualitative exploration of the perspectives of older adults can provide rich insights that can help inform the development of effective fall prevention programmes. However, currently there is a dearth of such empirical data, especially among urban-dwelling older adults in high-density cities where fall rates are high. The current study aimed to examine qualitatively perceptions of neighbourhood physical environment in relation to falls, perceived risks and fear of falling, and strategies and behaviours for fall prevention in a sample of urban-dwelling older adults in the high-density city of Hong Kong. Face-to-face semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 50 community-dwelling older adults. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis techniques. Five general themes were revealed: risks and circumstances of falls, consequences of falls, fear of falling and its consequences, neighbourhood environment, and strategies and behaviours of fall prevention. While older adults discussed the risks of falling and held a fear of falling, these beliefs were mixed. In addition to fall prevention strategies (e.g. keep balance), current findings highlighted the importance of establishing protective factors (e.g. flat and even walking paths) and reducing risk factors (e.g. neighbourhood clutter) in neighbourhood environments. For urban-dwelling older adults in high-density cities, current findings highlight the importance of focusing efforts at the built environment level in addition to strategies and behaviours of fall prevention at the individual level.

A market study of early adopters of fault detection and diagnosis tools for rooftop HVAC systems

Retrofit fault detection and diagnosis (FDD) products are undergoing major advances in their ability to optimize the operation and maintenance of building heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems as a result of advances in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and low-cost sensor networks. However, many market barriers still exist to their widespread adoption. This paper is the first to study the market and barriers for FDD products from the perspective of early adopters of HVAC rooftop retrofit FDD products as part of a field study of early adopters. Researchers engaged multiple sites and installed different FDD products at these sites for the purposes of (1) evaluating market readiness, market barriers, and user experience, (2) evaluating energy and demand savings, (3) evaluating the purchase, installation, training, and use process, and (4) determining overall FDD product effectiveness. This paper presents and focuses on the market study goals, methods, results, and findings determined based on survey data collected from key stakeholders participating in the study. These stakeholders included FDD providers, energy efficiency program managers and engineers, HVAC contractors, building owners, facility managers, energy managers, and consultants. The study provides results and analyses concerning (1) current knowledge and awareness levels for FDD technologies, (2) attitudes towards FDD products, (3) market barriers and resources available for FDD, and (4) insights on how stakeholders perceive and determine the value and cost for purchasing, using, and adopting FDD technologies and products. The study produced twelve (12) key findings, which provide valuable input for energy efficiency programs in their development of more effective FDD marketing programs that can increase adoption of FDD technologies and reduce barriers to widespread adoption.

Do our movement skills impact our cognitive skills? Exploring the relationship between cognitive function and fundamental movement skills in primary school children.

The literature suggests that there is a relationship between motor function and cognitive development however, few studies have explored the specific role of Functional Movement Skills on cognitive function. This research aimed to determine if Functional Movement Skills predict cognitive function, when accounting for confounding factors, in a sample of primary school children in Ireland. Cross-sectional. Sixty primary school children (51.7 % girls, age range 7-12 years, mean age 9.9 ± 1.28) were assessed in their Functional Movement Skill proficiency using the Test of Gross Motor Development-3rd Edition and a subtest of the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency 2 Short Form (to assess balance). Participants also completed a series of cognitive tests which formed part of the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery. A series of hierarchical regression analyses were conducted whilst controlling for covariates (Age; Gender; Socio Economic Status). Attention Switching, Reaction Time, and Emotional Recognition were found to be associated with Overall Functional Movement Skills (Locomotor, Object Control, Stability). Overall Functional Movement Skills significantly accounted for 4.7 % of the variance in Simple Reaction Time (ΔR2 = 0.032; p = 0.13) whilst Stability significantly accounted for 5.5 % (ΔR2 = 0.055; p = 0.04) and 12.9 % (ΔR2 = 0.129; p = 0.00) of the variance in Simple Reaction Time and Emotional Recognition, respectively, after controlling for covariates. Overall Functional Movement Skills may be more related to reaction time than attention and spatial working memory, whilst stability may be more associated with emotional recognition. Further research is warranted. Greater comprehension of the impact of Functional Movement Skills on cognitive function in children can contribute to the development of more effective and efficient physical activity programmes, which can in turn contribute to and promote holistic child development.

Associations Between Adolescent Problematic Internet Use and Relationship Problems in Chinese Families: Findings from a Large-scale Survey.

Problematic internet use (PIU) is prevalent among Chinese adolescents. There is a need to better understand how the quality of parent-adolescent relationship is associated with adolescent PIU to guide the development of effective prevention and early intervention programs. This study aims to evaluate parent-adolescent conflict and parenting styles as potential risk factors associated with adolescent PIU. A sample of 6552 students (aged 10-19 years) from 22 schools in Guangdong, China, was recruited. The participants completed self-report questionnaires measuring their perceptions of conflict with their parents (involving verbal conflict, emotional abuse, and physical abuse) as well as their perceptions of their parents' parenting styles (including parental care and parental control as measured by the Parental Bonding Inventory), and PIU using the Adolescent Pathological Internet Use Scale. Grade level and gender were examined as moderators of these associations. Using multiple regression analyses, we found that greater mother-adolescent conflict, father-adolescent conflict, and parental control, and lower levels of parental care, were associated with higher levels of adolescent PIU (P<.001). The association between mother-adolescent conflict and PIU was stronger in older students than in younger students (P=.04), whereas the association between father-adolescent conflict and PIU was stronger in male students than in female students (P=.02). Compared with those who reported no mother-adolescent conflict, participants who experienced verbal conflict and emotional abuse, but not physical abuse from their mothers, reported higher levels of PIU (P<.001). Compared with those who reported no father-adolescent conflict, participants who experienced verbal conflict, emotional abuse, and physical abuse from their fathers had significantly higher levels of PIU (P<.001, P<.001, and P=.02, respectively). These findings point to the value of interventions to reduce parental verbal conflict, emotional abuse, and physical abuse, and to increase positive parenting styles, to lower the risk of PIU in Chinese adolescents.

Effectiveness of Behavior Change interventions for smoking cessation among expectant and new fathers

Abstract Background The perinatal period is an optimal time to intervene for achieving smoking cessation in expectant parents and offers multiple health benefits for women and the newborn. While Behavior Change Technique (BCT) interventions are a promising approach to support pregnant smokers to quit smoking, effectiveness of these interventions among expectant and new fathers is not equally well documented. Better understanding of the potential utility of these BCT interventions for this group is important for the development of effective gender-sensitive programmes. Methods This systematic review examines the existing evidence on effectiveness of BCTs on smoking cessation outcomes when offered to expectant and new fathers (child &amp;lt; 1 year) both through individual and/or couple-based interventions. Eight databases were searched for peer-reviewed articles. Studies were subjected to systematic retrieval and quality-assessment by two independent reviewers. Results We identified 9 randomised control trial studies (including 4,681 men) that fulfilled the inclusion criteria. In terms of quit outcome data, 8 studies reported biochemically verified quit rates for men. While 5 BCT interventions targeted expectant/new fathers, 3 were directed to couples and 1 primarily focused on women with a component directed at men. Though most of the interventions were found to be effective, they showed small significant positive effects on cessation outcomes. Findings are suggestive of gender specific interventions being more likely to have positive outcomes. High heterogeneity across the studies made it difficult to determine the most effective BCT approach. Conclusions This review suggests that use of BCT interventions for smoking cessation among expectant and new fathers is effective in achieving positive quit rates; however, these studies are limited. Further research is needed to determine the most effective BCT approach associated with smoking cessation among this group. Key messages • BCT interventions for smoking cessation among expectant and new fathers are a promising approach to increase quit rates. • Future research needs to develop evidence based BCT interventions for smoking cessation specifically targeting expectant and new fathers to inform policy and practice.

Health Status and Self-Perception of Health in Czech Roma Community

Abstract Background The Roma population is reported to have a lower life expectancy in several European countries. The reasons for this are not well described, which limits the development of effective health promotion programs. This report investigates some possible reasons: self-perception of health risks and discrimination in a sample of Czech Roma. The study is a part of a complex health awareness program. Methods This is a pilot descriptive, cross-sectional survey conducted in Brno, Czech Republic in March 2022. Respondents were identified by community gatekeepers using quotas of gender and education. Data on disease incidence, lifestyle, attitudes to health care and risk perception were collected. Results In the sample of 30 participants, 60% were female, average age 42±5, 60% primary education. 57% daily smokers, with an average 17 cigarettes daily during 18 years. 35% had 1 chronic disease, another 38% had 2 and more. The most prevalent diseases were hypertension (43%) and obesity (41%). 60% of respondents with hypertension as compared to 23% without hypertension considered their stroke risk as medium. 43% smokers as compared to 21% non-smokers consider their risk of COPD as medium (for lung cancer 41% vs. 0%). Roma report not visiting a doctor due to a lack of time (33%), expecting the problem to resolve itself (33%), long waiting time (33%), but not discrimination (0%). Conclusions The Roma with risk factors correctly identify their risk of stroke, COPD, lung cancer as higher. None of them feel discriminated from physicians, but they limit contact with them due to other reasons. It appears that the prevalence of risk factors is higher in the Roma when compared to Caucasians based on the European Health Interview Survey (16% female, 31% male hypertension; 14% female, 29% male obesity). Self-perception of health and feeling of discrimination in Roma communities should be taken into account when designing health interventions. Key messages

Nueva Ecija’s Philippine Lime (Citrofortunella microcarpa) Agribusiness Industry: Marketing Disputes and Economic Outlooks

Philippine lime or calamansi is considered one of the Philippine high-value crops in Nueva Ecija province. This article presents some issues and problems of the calamansi industry in terms of marketing. The study used a descriptive survey of 56 farm-owners or calamansi growers. Findings revealed that lime production could be a stable income source if the growers could provide the necessary production inputs on a sustainable basis. Calamansi farmers in the province are often confronted with the following problems: the high cost of farm inputs, price fluctuations, price manipulation of big-time traders, and other intermediaries. The study also found that the existing actors in the chain were limited to growers, laborers, agri-supply shops, nursery owners, intermediaries, and traders. In terms of trading, there is a high degree of competition among traders in the market. The findings and results from this study may be important factors in developing and designing effective agricultural marketing program and startegic development plan by the authorities in the region.