Hygiene Behavior Research Articles

Awareness and Hygiene Practices Among Contact Lens Wearers: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Survey.

Background More than 150 million individuals worldwide wear contact lenses (CL) for therapeutic as well as cosmetic purposes. Researchers have linked failure to adhere to CL care instructions with outbreaks of serious eye infections. In the current study, we assess the consequences of inadequate cleanliness as well as awareness of and adherence to appropriate CL hygiene. Methods This is a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted in the Jazan region, southwest Saudi Arabia, during the period between October 2022 and April 2023. Results Out of a total of 718 participants, 391 (54.4%) were wearing CL. Of these, 318 (81.33%) CL wearers were female, while 73 (18.67%) were male. Among the CL wearers, 196 (50%) were aged 24 and younger. The overall knowledge was higher in females, with 320 (74.6%) having a high level of knowledge, compared to 195 (67.5%) males (p-value = 0.044). The level of knowledge was higher in those who had had an eye examination before using CL. Regarding practice, 202 (63.5%) females demonstrated better practices, while only 32 (43.8%) males did (p-value = 0.002). Variations in the adequacy of practice regarding CLs were identified according to the duration of CL use and the risk of suffering from eye dryness (p-values <0.05). Conclusions The participants' overall knowledge and practices were good. This should be encouraged by performing an eye examination before wearing CL and demonstrating good wearing habits in terms of hygiene behavior.

Positive emotions co-experienced with strangers and acquaintances predict COVID-19 vaccination intentions through prosocial tendencies

BackgroundThe efficacy of vaccination depends on its widespread adoption, making vaccine uptake not just a personal health behavior but also a prosocial one. Previous research has shown that everyday moments of co-experienced positive emotions (positivity resonance) are associated with higher prosocial tendencies, and these moments, in turn, prospectively predict people's pandemic hygiene behaviors. Yet, limited research has explored how moments of positivity resonance may have predicted greater COVID-19 vaccine intentions during the early months of the pandemic. MethodsWe longitudinally surveyed a national U.S. sample across four weeks during the fall of 2020. We tested the hypothesis that positivity resonance with strangers and acquaintances indirectly predicts COVID-19 vaccine intentions, as statistically mediated by prosocial tendencies. We also aimed to replicate the indirect effects of positivity resonance on hygiene behaviors (such as mask wearing and hand washing), effects that have been demonstrated in previous research. ResultsIn a pre-registered structural equation model, we found that perceived positivity resonance experienced with strangers and acquaintances prospectively predicted prosocial tendencies, which in turn amplified people's COVID-19 vaccine intentions (β = 0.053) and hygiene behaviors – i.e., social distancing (β = 0.032), mask wearing (β = 0.027), hand washing (β = 0.049). ConclusionsUnderstanding the effects of high-quality social interactions with strangers and acquaintances on vaccine intentions and hygiene behaviors is critical, particularly given the likelihood of emerging pandemics and novel vaccines. We discuss theoretical and practical implications related to perceived positivity resonance, prosocial tendencies, and vaccination uptake for novel vaccines.

Hubungan Pengetahuan, Sikap dan Motivasi Remaja Putri dengan Perilaku Personal Hygiene Saat Menstruasi di SMPN 18 Tanjung Jabung Timur Tahun 2022

Adolescents are a transitional age group from childhood to adulthood. The menstrual cycle is the beginning of female reproductive health. The first menstruation often causes adolescents to panic, because there is a lack of information about menstruation or the information provided cannot be justified. Problems that often arise related to adolescent reproductive health are the lack of ability to carry out reproductive care. According to WHO (World Health Organization) in 2018 estimates that 15 out of 20 young women have experienced vaginal discharge every year. The infection is caused by a lack of personal hygiene, especially vulva hygiene during menstruation. This study used an observational analytic design with a cross-sectional approach which was carried out at SMPN 18 Tanjung Jabung Timur in October 2022. The total population was 73 respondents with a sample using a total sampling of 73 respondents. Data analysis using chi-square. The results of the study showed that most of the respondents had sufficient knowledge, 49 respondents (67.1%). (50.7%), the majority of respondents have personal hygiene behavior as many as 59 respondents (53.4%), there is a relationship between knowledge (p-value 0.000), attitude (p-value 0.008), and motivation (p-value 0.022) with personal hygiene behavior at SMPN 18 Tanjung Jabung Timur in 2022. The conclusion obtained in this study is that there is a relationship between knowledge, attitudes, and motivation with personal hygiene behavior during menstruation at SMPN Tanjung Jabung Timur in 2022.

Pengaruh Pengetahuan Sanitasi Higiene Terhadap Perilaku Higiene Siswa Kuliner SMK Negeri 1 Lamongan

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of sanitation hygiene knowledge on the hygiene behavior intention of culinary students in SMK. The type of research used in this study is quantitative with an evaluative descriptive approach. Descriptive evaluative research is research conducted to investigate circumstances, conditions, situations, events, activities, and others whose results will be compared with criteria and conclusions drawn. The population of this study were X and XI grade culinary students of SMK Negeri 1 Lamongan, totaling 30 students selected using simple random sampling technique. The instrument used is a knowledge test question in the form of multiple choice of 20 questions which is used to measure the level of student knowledge and observation sheets to see student hygiene behavior at school. This study uses simple regression test analysis, the instrument is calculated using SPSS 25 and can be said to be valid if r count&gt; 3.361. for the reliability test, the results are said to be reliable if Cronbach's Alpha&gt; 0.60. In this study, the reliability value is 0.708. The results showed that 2 students' sanitation hygiene knowledge was in the low category (6.7%), 5 students in the moderate category (16.7%), 8 students in the good category (26.7%) and 15 students in the excellent category (50%). For hygiene behavior intention, 13 students were in the very good category with a percentage of 43.3% and there were 17 students in the good category with a percentage of 56.7%. The results showed that sanitation hygiene knowledge affects students' hygiene behavior with a large influence on the R Square value obtained of 26.5%.

Nutrition supplementation plus standard of care versus standard of care alone or standard of care plus unconditional cash transfer in the prevention of chronic malnutrition in Southern Angola: study protocol for the MuCCUA study, a cluster randomized controlled trial

BackgroundChronic malnutrition is a condition associated with negative impacts on physical and cognitive development. It is multi-causal and can start very early in life, already in utero, thus it is especially challenging to find appropriate interventions to tackle it. The government of Angola is implementing a standard of care program with potential to prevent it, and the provision of cash transfers and the supplementation with small quantity lipid-based nutrients (SQ-LNS) are also promising interventions. We aimed to evaluate the impact of the standard of care program alone and of the standard of care plus a cash transfer intervention in the lineal growth of children less than 2 years old and compare it to the effectiveness of a nutrition supplementation plus standard of care program in Southern Angola.Methods/designThe three-arm parallel cluster randomised controlled trial is set in four communes of Huila and Cunene provinces. Clusters are villages or neighbourhoods with a population around 1075 people. A total of twelve clusters were selected per arm and forty pregnant women are expected to be recruited in each cluster. Pregnant women receive the standard of care alone, or the standard of care plus unconditional cash transfer or plus nutritional supplementation during the first 1000 days, from pregnancy to the child reaching 24 months. The primary outcome is the prevalence of stunting measured as height-for-age Z-score (HAZ) < -2 in children below 2 years. Impact will be assessed at 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months of children’s age. Secondary outcomes include mortality, morbidity, caring, hygiene and nutrition behaviours and practices, and women and children’s dietary diversity. Quantitative data are also collected on women’s empowerment, household food security, expenditure and relevant clinical and social events at baseline, endline and intermediate time points.DiscussionThe results will provide valuable information on the impact of the standard of care intervention alone as well as combined with an unconditional cash transfer intervention compared to a nutrition supplementation plus standard of care intervention, carried out during the first 1000 days, in the children´s growth up to 2 years and related outcomes in Southern Angola.Trial registrationClinical Trials NCT05571280. Registered 7 October 2022.

Exploring Feminine Hygiene Product Adoption: A Gynecologists’ Perspective in India. Application of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to Women’s Buying Behavior

Purpose Feminine hygiene has emerged as a crucial topic of concern in recent years, with growing emphasis on the perspectives of medical professionals, particularly gynecologists. This paper sets out to study the feminine hygiene product adoption among women from gynecologists’ perspective using the theory of planned behavior (TPB) as a relevant and effective framework to study the behavioral tendencies of target audience. Methods Our research employs a qualitative approach, engaging in-depth interviews with 25 gynecologists. A semi-structured questionnaire guided these interviews, and they took place in settings chosen by the gynecologists themselves, such as private clinics or hospitals. The collected data was meticulously analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings Our study confirms the applicability of the TPB as a qualitative research tool. Furthermore, the results have contributed to the evolution and enhancement of the TPB model by incorporating additional influential variables. Notably, ‘comfort’ was identified as a significant factor influencing women’s attitude towards feminine hygiene, and beyond the TPB constructs, product knowledge was revealed to play a pivotal role in shaping women’s intentions to adopt feminine hygiene products. Practical Implication From a social marketing perspective, our study offers valuable insights for various stakeholders within the healthcare industry, policymakers, and product manufacturers. It highlights the urgency of normalizing the acceptance of feminine hygiene products, addressing unfamiliar advantages and disadvantages, and promote product efficacy. By adopting these strategies, stakeholders can better cater to women’s needs and enhance their overall health and well-being. Originality/Value This research makes a noteworthy contribution to the feminine hygiene literature by shedding light on the constructs that need to be integrated to understand women’s menstrual hygiene behavior comprehensively. This study has offered a wide range of understanding about feminine hygiene phenomenon from gynecologists’ perspective that has not yet been explored in any study. Additionally, we provide a robust theoretical framework for comprehending the feminine hygiene context, offering a foundation for further research and practical interventions.

Dampak Pajanan Timbal terhadap Anemia Pekerja dan Strategi Intervensi

Lead poisoning is still a major case of industrial and environmental problems in developing countries. In the last decade, several studies have been conducted on the impact of lead exposure on health, one of which is the risk of anemia in both workers and communities around exposed factories. The aim of this research is to determine the impact of lead on the risk of anemia in the work environment, and intervention strategies that can be carried out by the parties involved. This research includes a literature review obtained from a search using the PRISMA 2009 system. Of the 246 journals obtained from the first search, 20 journals were included in this research. The research results showed that factors that influence blood lead levels are environmental conditions, work area, use of PPE, worker hygiene behavior, and duration of work, either daily or long term. Anemia is one of the dominant symptoms and has an impact on work productivity. Intervention strategies for cases of anemia due to lead exposure can be carried out using the principle of hierarchy control and improving individual hygiene behavior, as well as providing additional supplements. In severe cases, chelation and alternative therapies need to be considered. Controlling the impact of lead exposure needs to be carried out by company management and requires worker participation to be protected from the effects of intoxication on health.

THE EVALUATION OF KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOR IN HYGIENE SANITATION OF FOOD HANDLERS AT AJI SANTOSO INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL ACADEMY

The quality of food service is influenced by the knowledge of hygiene and sanitation (NHS) and the hygiene and sanitation behavior (PHS) of food handlers. NHS and PHS are essential for controlling the risk factors of contamination. This research aims to assess the NHS and PHS of food handlers at Aji Santoso International Football Academy (ASIFA). This was a descriptive study with a cross-sectional design, utilizing the total population sampling method. The sample size was seven individuals. The data were analyzed descriptively. The characteristics of the samples included individuals within the productive age range of 15–64 years, with 57% male and 43% female. Educational backgrounds were 72% high school, 14% elementary school, and 14% higher education. The work experience of the samples indicated that 43% had worked for 5 years. The results showed that the good value of NHS did not align with PHS values, as evidenced by 100% of food handlers having inadequate PHS values. Therefore, training to improve both NHS and PHS among food handlers at ASIFA was deemed necessary.

Understanding the role of household hygiene practices and foodborne disease risks in child stunting: a UKRI GCRF Action Against Stunting Hub protocol paper

IntroductionEnvironmental hygiene and food safety are important determinants of child stunting. This research aims to explore the relationship between child stunting and household hygiene practices and behaviours, including the availability...

Evaluation of Social-Cognitive Determinants of Patients’ Hand Hygiene Decisions and the Role of Mental Health in a Cross-Sectional and a Longitudinal Study of German Patients

Patients’ effective hand hygiene helps to reduce healthcare-associated infections and prevents the spread of nosocomial infections and communicable diseases, such as COVID-19. Accordingly, this study aimed to describe effective hand hygiene decisions based on the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) and whether this pattern is invariant for mental health. Data were collected cross-sectionally from patients who had previously been admitted to a hospital (Nstudy 1 = 279; study 1) and longitudinally from psychosomatic rehabilitation patients (Nstudy 1 = 1073; study 2). The fit of the HAPA framework and changes in hand hygiene decisions regarding compliance, social-cognitive variables of the HAPA, and mental health status were examined. The results revealed that the trimmed HAPA framework fitted the data well (χ2 = 27.1, df = 12, p &lt; 0.01, CMIN/df = 2.26, CFI = 0.97, RMSEA = 0.08). According to multi-group structural equation modeling, the HAPA model with hand hygiene behavior was found to be invariant regarding mental health. To conclude, the trimmed HAPA framework was revealed to be a generic framework for explaining social-cognitive processes relating to hand hygiene decisions. Therefore, helping individuals to perform hand hygiene recommendations requires intention formation and bridging the intention–behavior gap. This can be undertaken by promoting planning and self-efficacy. All processes appear generic to participants with and without mental health challenges.

Nurses' knowledge and attitudes towards hand hygiene in Aceh, Indonesia: A correlational study among surgical nurses

This study aims to thoroughly examine nurses' knowledge and attitudes about hand hygiene and investigate how these factors are related. Conducted in a hospital environment, the research aims to gather detailed information to help develop better hand hygiene practices among nurses. Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) pose a global issue, impacting numerous people each year. However, consistent hand hygiene can greatly reduce these infections. Nurses are vital in preventing HAIs, and this study looks at the hand hygiene behaviors of thirty-three surgical nurses. The research involved collecting data through three questionnaires and analyzing it with the Pearson correlation test. The results revealed that the average knowledge score of the nurses was 11.6, and their average attitude score was 16.33. There was a strong correlation (r=0.688) between the nurses' knowledge and their attitudes towards hand hygiene practices. Moreover, a significant positive correlation (ρ-value of 0.000) was observed, indicating a meaningful relationship between knowledge levels and attitudes towards hand hygiene. The findings suggest that enhancing knowledge about hand hygiene results in a more positive attitude towards its practices. The role of the hospital ward manager is crucial in maintaining proper hand hygiene among staff. As a role model, supervisor, and evaluator, the ward manager significantly influences awareness and adherence to good hand hygiene practices. Additionally, the hospital should provide adequate support and resources to enable staff to perform hand hygiene effectively.

Prevalence and determinants of hand hygiene behavior among Indian population: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Despite a global call to action, many deaths occur yearly in developing nations from contagious diseases due to poor sanitation and hygiene. Although hand hygiene (HH) behavior was critical in preventing the COVID-19 pandemic, the sustainability of such practices is still questionable. Therefore, the current systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the prevalence and determinants of HH behavior among the Indian population (PROSPERO registration ID: CRD42022344961). Systematic searches on electronic databases, including ScienceDirect, Scopus, Web of Science, JSTOR, PubMed, and Google Scholar, targeted qualitative and quantitative studies that report HH behaviors in India. Pooled effect sizes were calculated with the inverse-variance method using random-effects models, acknowledging the study heterogeneity. Out of 1053 studies, 15 studies that met eligibility criteria were included in the qualitative synthesis. Among them, five studies were included in the meta-analyses. The overall prevalence of HH before food was 55% (95% CI = 31–78), and after the toilet was 84% (95% CI = 65–96). Subgroup analysis showed that before-food HH prevalence pre- and post-COVID-19 was 61% and 36%, respectively, whereas after-toilet HH prevalence was 91% and 74%, respectively. Meta-regression revealed statistically non-significant results for COVID-19 status. While it could not adequately explain the heterogeneity of the ‘before-food prevalence’ studies (Adj. R2 = − 34.80%), it did account for more than 19% in ‘after-toilet prevalence’ (Adj. R2 = 19.72%). This systematic review highlights various demographic, psychosocial, and environmental determinants of HH behavior. The results offer the potential for a deeper comprehension of the key factors influencing HH in India and could find implications for developing viable interventions. This aids in planning efficient promotional campaigns to enhance personal hygiene and control infectious diseases in the nation.

Pelaksanaan Pendidikan Kesehatan terhadap Perilaku Hidup Bersih dan Sehat (PHBS)

Background of Study: Boarding School are Islamic education dormitories that need attention about health because many students live in them. Boarding schools are strategic place to increase students’ knowledge about health to change attitudes and behavior of individual hygiene. This can be implemented by providing health education for students by instilling clean and healthy living behavior to improve healthy living skills from an early age. The aim of this study was to correlate clean and healthy living behavior of high school students in Ibnul Qoyyim Boarding School for Boys. Methods: Research design used in this study was cross sectional. Population in this research was all high school students in Ibnul Qoyyim Boarding School for boys. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling technique, so the samples taken were 86 students with inclusion criteria. Data analysis used SPSS application with Chi-square test (p &lt; 0,05) to correlate health education with clean and healthy living behavior by 8 indicators from Ministry of Health Indonesia. Results: The most respondent were 16 years old (30.2%). And 72% have received Health Education but only 12,8% have applied clean and healthy living behavior. The result of statistical test showed that there was no correlation in correlation between health education with clean and healthy living behavior (p value = 0.681; PR = 1.180). But, from Prevalence Ratio value, the implementation of health education is a factor that can affect PHBS in students by 1,180 times compared to students who have not received health education for the last 6 months. Conclusion: There was no correlation between health education with clean and healthy living behavior of high school students in Ibnul Qoyyim Boarding School for Boys. Keywords: Health Education, Health Behavior, Boarding School

ASSESSMENT OF AWARENESS OF MENSTRUATION AND MENSTRUAL HYGIENE PRACTICES AMONG WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE GROUP- A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY AT TERTIARY CARE CENTER, MAHARASHTRA

Background: According to several studies, only 77.3% of Indian women follow menstrual hygiene practices.1 Unaddressed menstrual hygiene is said to hamper the achievement of some of the sustainable development goals (3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th), which are related to menstrual hygiene practices.1,2 Since the last two decades, womens literacy and status in society have improved, so it is important to know whether menstrual hygiene has improved or not. The present study will assess the adequacy of menstrual hygiene knowledge and practice, which is directly related to SDG 6.25. Objectives: 1.To asses the awareness and practices of menstrual hygiene. 2. To study socio-cultural factors associated with hygiene practices. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among women of reproductive age who attended gynecology OPD. A non-probability convenience sampling method and a pretested, semi-structured questionnaire were used. Results: In the current study, 100 women of reproductive age (15–45 years) were interviewed.70% of the participants belonged to the 21–35 age group, 98% were from urban areas, 74% were married, and 6% were illiterate. About 59% of participants had information about menstruation before menarche among them, 38% of participants mothers were the source of information. Nearly 27% participants had miss-belief regarding menstruation. 17% study subjects used cloth as a absorbent material where as 71% participant used less than two absorbent materials per day. Whereas 51% took hand wash after changing absorbent material. Nearly 12% of participants burned absorbent material, while 9% reused it and dried by sunlight. Nearly 78% of participants have been restricted activity during menstruation. Conclusion: This study shows the vital role of a source of information for appropriate knowledge of menstruation. The awareness of menstruation was found to be significantly correlated with literacy status. Good hygiene behavior was positively correlated with informant, literacy level, and family type. Socio-cultural limitations were still present among married women from joint families.

Evaluation of oral health status in the population above 50: evidence from the ardakan cohort study on aging (ACSA)

BackgroundThe global population is undergoing rapid aging, and older individuals are more susceptible to various health issues, including oral health problems. Despite the increasing attention given to healthy aging, oral health has often been overlooked in discussions related to health problems. This study aims to assess the oral health status of middle-aged and older adults in Iran.MethodsThis cross-sectional study analyzed data from 4970 men and women aged 50 years and above, who participated in the Ardakan Cohort Study on Aging (ACSA) between 2020 and 2022. Trained personnel administered a questionnaire and conducted oral health examinations to determine the oral health status and oral hygiene behaviors of the participants.ResultsThe mean value (SD) of the total Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index was 21.3 (10.7). Approximately 46% of all participants were completely edentulous (without natural teeth). Moreover, 58.5% of the total sample wore dentures, and the mean age (SD) when they started using dentures was 48.5 (20.7) years. About 71% of participants with natural teeth reported brushing their teeth at least once a day, while about 63% of denture wearers cleaned their dentures daily. In the sample, 28% of individuals had visited a dentist in the last year. The prevalence of difficulty in biting and chewing food among the participants was 48.2% and 44.6%, respectively. Additionally, nearly 68% of all samples reported experiencing at least one difficulty in daily functioning due to oral/dental conditions. The study identified cutoff points of seven (sensitivity = 56.8 and specificity = 77.5) and 10 (sensitivity = 72.1 and specificity = 71.1) missing teeth, indicating the presence of at least one problem in daily functioning due to oral/dental conditions in middle-aged and older adults, respectively.ConclusionThe study reveals a high prevalence of edentulism and denture use among participants aged 50 years and above. The majority of samples reported difficulties in daily functioning due to oral and dental conditions, especially in biting and chewing food. These findings highlight the importance of proactive measures to address oral health issues in middle-aged and older adults, thereby enhancing their overall health and well-being.

Correlation of maternal parenting style with behavior in maintaining oral hygiene of children with type 1 diabetes mellitus

Background: Type-1 diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease which management is complex and full of challenges, especially when it occurs during childhood and adolescence. Furthermore, with the presence of complications from type-1 diabetes mellitus, including complications related to dental and oral health, appropriate prevention and management strategies are needed. Parents, especially mothers, have an important role in children's lives, such as caring for and teaching children about oral health, maternal behavior in maintaining dental hygiene is a factor in shaping children's dental health, so that good parenting style can maintain the health of the oral cavity of type-1 DM children. Objectives: This study aims to analyze the relationship between maternal parenting style and maternal behavior in maintaining oral hygiene of type-1 DM children in Malang City. Methods: This study was a cross sectional analytic observational study consisting of 35 parents whose children had type-1 DM at Saiful Anwar Hospital. The instrument used was PSDQ questionnaire. Results: The correlation test between maternal parenting and oral hygiene behavior of children with type-1 DM obtained a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.560 with a significance value of &lt;0.001. Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between maternal parenting variables and behavior in maintaining oral hygiene of children with type-1 DM in children with type-1 DM in Malang City.

The Relationship Between Knowledge Level And Perineal Hygyene Attitude Towards The Incidence Of Flour Albus

Flour albus is defined as a clear but sometimes milky white discharge that can be small or even quite large. The occurrence of flour albus in adolescents before puberty, after menstruation and even occurs when adolescents experience stress. This study aims to determine the relationship between knowledge level and perineal hygiene attitude towards the incidence of flour albus. This research method uses quantitative with a cross sectional approach. The sample consisted of 62 seventh grade students of SMPN 1 Sukaraja, using simple random sampling technique, data obtained using a questionnaire and analyzed using the chi-square test. The results showed a p-value of 0.000. The conclusion of this study is that there is a relationship between the level of knowledge and perineal hygiene behavior towards the incidence of flour albus. Suggestions for adolescent girls are that they must attend a lot of health counseling, especially reproductive health, in order to increase knowledge, and perineal hygiene behavior that supports maintaining reproductive health and reducing the incidence of flour albus.

Health Promotion Strategies in Correctional Institution to Achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs’)

Background: Overcapacity in Correctional Institution (Lapas) is a prevailing issue faced by the Directorate General of Corrections (Ditjenpas). The current number of prisoners in correctional institution is nearly twice their ideal capacity, significantly impacting the health conditions of prisoners. Aims: To provide recommendations for health promotion strategies aimed at realizing healthy correctional institution in Indonesia, based on research conducted at Class IIA Kendal correctional institution. Method: This research is descriptive with a qualitative approach. Data collection methods comprised observation, interviews and documentation. Results: Achieving a healthy correctional institution requires a holistic approach through health promotion strategies encompassing several key aspects. Firstly, policy advocacy stands as the backbone in advocating for structural changes to improve healthcare access, adequate human resources and inclusive policies for prisoners. Furthermore, training prisoners and staff forms the foundation for improving healthcare services by providing necessary training, knowledge and support. Health education for prisoners serves as a long-term program to enhance their understanding of personal health and minimize disease risks. Lastly, enhancing personal hygiene behaviour is crucial in creating a clean environment, minimizing disease spread and supporting the overall health of both individuals and the correctional institution community. Conclusion: Realizing a healthy correctional institution through health promotion strategies is not solely a local effort but also a significant contribution towards achieving SDGs.

In-gallery social behaviors of the ambrosia beetle, Xylosandrus germanus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae).

The east Asian ambrosia beetle Xylosandrus germanus (Blanford) was first detected in the United States in 1932. It now occurs across much of eastern North America and parts of the Pacific Northwest. It attacks a broad range of stressed, woody hosts including ornamental and orchard species. The foundress tunnels into the sapwood of hosts where it cultures a symbiotic fungus as food for its offspring. A few other ambrosia beetles have been shown to possess a facultatively eusocial structure among gallery members, but this has not been described for Xylosandrus spp. Using a novel artificial diet arena, we quantified the behaviors of X. germanus larvae and adults (foundress and mature offspring) over 10 wk inside their galleries. Foundresses were responsible for constructing the gallery. They also initially tended the fungal garden and brood but eventually spent most of their time blocking the gallery entrance. Larvae were mainly observed to feed, crawl, or be inactive within the gallery, regardless of the absence or presence of adult siblings. Adult female offspring were primarily inactive, likely due to dormancy. Adult male offspring actively crawled and attempted to mate with their sisters before eventually dispersing out of the gallery. Cooperative hygienic behaviors (removal of frass, cannibalism of dead nest mates, grooming siblings) were observed but a division of labor among offspring was not clear. Rather, foundress behaviors were mostly distinct from offspring behaviors, particularly as the gallery aged. Because no overlap in generations occurred, X. germanus displays a quasisocial structure.

Long-lasting effects of COVID-19 pandemic on hospitalizations and severity of bronchiolitis

Bronchiolitis is a common cause of hospitalization in infants. The long-lasting impact of hygiene and social behavior changes during the pandemic on this disease is debated. We investigated the prevalence of hospitalized cases, clinical severity, and underlying risk factors before and during pandemic. The study was conducted in 27 hospitals in Italy and included infants hospitalized for bronchiolitis during the following four periods: July 2018-March 2019, July 2020-March 2021, July 2021-March 2022, and July 2022-March 2023. Data on demographics, neonatal gestational age, breastfeeding history, underlying chronic diseases, presence of older siblings, etiologic agents, clinical course and outcome were collected. A total of 5330 patients were included in the study. Compared to 2018–19 (n = 1618), the number of hospitalizations decreased in 2020–21 (n = 121). A gradual increase was observed in 2021–22 (n = 1577) and 2022–23 (n = 2014). A higher disease severity (need and length of O2-supplementation, need for non-invasive ventilation, hospital stay) occurred in the 2021–22 and, especially, the 2022–23 periods compared to 2018–19. This tendency persisted after adjusting for risk factors associated with bronchiolitis severity. Conclusions: Compared to adults, COVID-19 in infants is often asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic and rarely results in hospitalization. This study indicates that the pandemic has indirectly induced an increased burden of bronchiolitis among hospitalized infants. This shift, which is not explained by the recognized risk factors, suggests the existence of higher infant vulnerability during the last two seasons.What is known:• The pandemic led to a change in epidemiology of respiratory diseases• Large data on severity of bronchiolitis and underlying risk factors before and during COVID-19 pandemic are scarceWhat is new:• Compared to pre-pandemic period, hospitalizations for bronchiolitis decreased in 2020–21 and gradually increased in 2021–22 and 2022–23• Compared to pre-pandemic period, higher disease burden occurred in 2021–22 and, especially, in 2022–23. This tendency persisted after adjusting for risk factors associated with bronchiolitis severity• The interplay among viruses, preventive measures, and the infant health deserves to be further investigated