Level Of Knowledge Research Articles

Climatic changes: knowledge and adaptation behavior to heat-related illness among solid waste disposal workers

BackgroundEarth’s climate changes are progressing at an alarming rate. One of the most severe effects of climate change is extreme heat. This study aimed to assess knowledge and adaptation behavior to heat-related illness (HRI) among solid waste disposal workers in the 10th of Ramadan City, Egypt, and to study the predictors for their knowledge and adaptation behavior.MethodsAn exploratory cross-sectional study was conducted on 220 solid waste disposal workers. A structured interview questionnaire was used to assess the studied workers’ sociodemographic and occupational characteristics, heat exposure risk, and their knowledge, and adaptation behavior.ResultsThe results showed that 40% and 30% of participants had adequate levels of total knowledge and adaptation behavior, respectively. There was a statistically significant relationship between workers’ knowledge and both age and education. There was a statistically significant relationship between workers’ adaptation behavior and age, duration of employment, working hours, and education. A binary logistic regression for significant predictors of knowledge and adaptation behavior showed that age and education were the most significant predictors.ConclusionSolid waste disposal workers were at high risk of HRI due to their low levels of knowledge and adaptation behavior regarding HRI. Educational health programs that guide workers to follow healthy behaviors and prevent HRI are recommended.

The Provision of Psychosocial Support to Students in Jordan: Teachers' Knowledge, Attitudes, Skills, Practices, and Perceived Barriers.

Psychosocial support provision in schools is a promising strategy for overcoming barriers to accessing mental health care. This study aimed to assess teachers' knowledge, attitudes, practices, skills, and perceived barriers in providing psychosocial support to students in Jordan. The sample included teachers working in public schools, private schools, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) schools, and Zaatari camp schools, as well as non-formal education centers. The study utilized a multi-stage stratified cluster sampling technique to select a nationally representative sample. A total of 549 teachers were included, and only 25.2% have ever received mental health training. Most teachers reported a high level of good and acceptable knowledge of psychosocial support and had a positive attitude toward the provision of psychosocial support, however, about a quarter (25.5%) agreed on feeling nervous in discussing students' psychosocial problems with their parents or school administrators. The least enacted practice was the systematic engagement with parents, school administration, and other community resources in students' well-being (sometimes, 31.6%; rarely, 20.4%). Gaps in skills were mainly in communicating with external resources and parents. The main barriers included parents' misunderstanding of teachers' role in providing psychosocial support to students (56.8%), lack of integration of psychosocial support in the curriculum (55.6%), and challenges in identifying students with psychosocial problems due to large class sizes (54.3%). The results show that gaps extend beyond the individual level of teachers to the community level. School-based psychosocial support interventions must consider the multiple factors that influence their implementation at multiple levels, including the individual, relational, community, and societal levels.

Investigating public understanding and actions regarding Aedes mosquitoes and dengue prevention across altitudinal range in central Nepal.

Dengue fever, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, is a significant public health concern in Nepal. An extensive Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) survey related to Aedes mosquitoes and the prevention of dengue was conducted along the route from Matihani (62 m asl) to Kalinchok (3840 m asl) in central Nepal. This research examined residents' awareness of Aedes mosquitoes and the diseases they transmit, aiming to support the World Health Organization's national and global fight against mosquito-borne diseases. The survey included 550 participants aged 18-75 years (249 males and 201 females). Door-to-door campaigns were conducted to gather data on knowledge scores, practices, and attitudes about Aedes mosquitoes using a standard structured questionnaire. Findings of this study revealed a moderate level of knowledge across the study area, with a mean knowledge score of 5.525±2.58 (correct answer rate of 46.05%). While 99.6% of respondents were aware of dengue transmission by mosquitoes, only 64.5% were able to report Aedes mosquitoes as the key transmitter. Less than one-third of the participants (27.8%) were familiar with black-and-white stripes in Aedes. Additionally, only 36.7% were knowledgeable about the day-biting behavior of Aedes mosquitoes. This KAP survey provides valuable insights into community understanding of Aedes mosquitoes and dengue prevention practices associated with various Nepalese communities residing in low to high altitudes of Central Nepal. The findings of this study can be adopted to address the increasing health burden faced by the countries with low- to-high altitude regions within the Hindu Kush Himalaya.

Knowledge and uses of iron supplements to treat anaemia among adolescent girls in Surabaya

Background: During adolescence, a phase of growth and development requires a lot of macros and micronutrient intake. The physical changes will certainly affect nutritional status, leading to nutritional problems, such as anaemia.     Objective: To determine the level of knowledge of adolescent girls about iron supplements and how they use them to overcome anaemia. Method: A descriptive study with a cross-sectional design was used in this research, and an accidental sampling technique was used. Result: Most of the respondents need better knowledge, despite most of them having taken iron supplements from school, which is a part of the programs from the government. Many respondents have received information about iron supplements and anaemia, but numerous still do not comply with taking iron supplements. Conclusion: Education needs to be carried out to increase the compliance of adolescent girls in using iron supplements to improve the quality of the next generation.

Assessing knowledge and practice of online medication purchasing: A pilot study

Background: Online Medication Purchasing (OMP) has emerged as a growing concern because of the risk of receiving falsified products and the irrational use of medicines. Despite the government regulation about OMP, more is needed to know whether the residents are aware of this regulation. Objective: The study aimed to determine the level of knowledge & practice of OMP and to estimate the factors correlated to it. Method: A pilot project was conducted in the Wanasari village, Cibitung district, Bekasi. A validated questionnaire determined the sociodemographics, knowledge, and practice of 92 participants regarding OMP. A multivariate logistic regression was performed to measure the predictors of OMP knowledge. Result: The study showed that slightly over half of the participants have adequate knowledge of OMP (58.7%). Nevertheless, poor knowledge predominantly emerged regarding legal access to antibiotics and controlled medicines. Adequate knowledge of OMP increased for participants with higher education (OR:20.202; 95%CI:3.488-117.020; p = 0.001) and being active workers (OR:8.365; 95%CI:1.974-35.435; p = 0.004). Conclusion: Education and employment determine OMP knowledge. This study confirms that educational interventions are required to promote good OMP practice and protect health customers from the adverse effects of falsified medications.

Albanian Public Opinion on US Role in the Israel-Gaza Conflict

Against the Israel-Gaza conflict and the United States’ involvement, this study explores the complex dynamics of Albanian public opinion regarding these geopolitical events. Through a systematic examination of demographic variables including gender, age, educational attainment, and religious belief, the research aims to elucidate how these variables shape perceptions and attitudes among the Albanian populace. The objectives encompass assessing knowledge levels regarding the US role in the conflict, evaluating public opinion on this role, and examining pro/anti-American sentiments. Hypotheses are formulated to substantiate the influence of demographic factors on these perceptions. Employing structured questionnaires and statistical analysis, data was collected from Albanian citizens, revealing intriguing insights. While age emerges as a significant determinant of understanding and assessment, gender and religious faith notably influence pro/anti-American sentiments. The study underscores the intricate interplay between demographic factors and public perceptions, shedding light on the multifaceted dynamics shaping attitudes toward international affairs and the USA in Albania. These findings hold implications for policy-making, public discourse, and future research on global conflicts and public opinion.   Received: 1 February 2024 / Accepted: 30 April 2024 / Published: 5 May 2024

The Effects of Price Context and Prior Product Knowledge on Consumers’ Product Evaluations

This research examines how consumers rely on price and prior product knowledge in product quality evaluations. To understand the interaction effects of price context and prior product knowledge on quality evaluations, a conceptual framework based on cue utilization theory and information processing theory was developed. It is proposed that low knowledgeable consumers are more likely to use price as a quality indicator in a low-priced context; moderate knowledgeable consumers tend to rely on their knowledge to make product evaluations; high knowledgeable consumers are more likely to use their product knowledge in a high-priced context. Experimental studies were conducted using student subjects to test the proposed hypotheses. Results of the experiments showed significant interaction effects between price context and prior knowledge on quality evaluations. A significant quadratic relationship between the use of price and the level of prior product knowledge was observed only in a low-priced context, providing support for the proposed hypotheses in the conceptual model.

Awareness of Pediatric Nurses Regarding Drug Preparation and Administration in Gaafer bin auf Children Hospital, Sudan

Background: This study aimed to assess the awareness of nurses who care for pediatric patients related with drug preparation and administration conducted in Gaffer Bin Auf children hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from November to December 2015, in Gaffer Bin Auf children hospital, largest pediatric hospital in Khartoum state. The total sample size was 92 participants. The self-administered questionnaire was constructed with a total of 26 questions. For data analysis, we performed nonprobability descriptive study design. Results: The results imply that Majority of respondents aged between 20-30 years (56.5%). Approximately half of the nurses held a bachelor’s degree (52.2%), while the remainder held a diploma (47.8%). A significant proportion of nurses (83.7%) reported no prior training in drug preparation and administration. Most nurses (46.7%) had 2-5 years of clinical experience, and 69.6% worked afternoon and night shifts. Regarding drug preparation and administration, varying levels of knowledge were observed among nurses. Notable percentages of nurses demonstrated awareness in areas such as double-checking during preparation (56.5%) and using distilled water or normal saline for non-contraindicated suspension drugs (56.5%), nurse answered can avoid a mistake during Preparation by prepare medication for one individual at a time with (90.2%), most of nurses have good level of knowledge regarding to drug preparation & administration practice with (65.6%). bachelor's degrees are more likely to demonstrate proficient drug preparation and administration practices compared to those with diplomas, with a significant difference of 94% (p=0.047, AOR: 0.6, 95% CI: 0.03, 1.1). This research indicating that bachelor's degree nurse graduates generally exhibit better educational preparedness for quality and safety. Additionally, participants working morning shifts are 3.4 times more likely to exhibit good drug preparation and administration practices compared to those on night shifts (p=0.011, AOR: 3.4, 95% CI: 1.3, 8.1), and 4.6 times more likely compared to those on afternoon shifts (p=0.015, AOR: 4.6, 95% CI: 1.8, 9.2). Participants with good knowledge of drug preparation and administration practices are 2.614 times more likely to exhibit proficiency compared to those with poor knowledge (p<0.001, AOR: 2.614, 95% CI: 1.78, 3.90). Conclusion: The study revealed significant insights into the demographic characteristics, educational backgrounds, and practices related to drug preparation and administration among nurses. Despite a substantial portion reporting no prior training, varying levels of knowledge were evident, with most nurses demonstrating awareness in key areas such as double-checking during preparation and using appropriate solutions for suspension drugs. While there are areas for improvement, the findings suggest a solid foundation of knowledge among nurses regarding medication safety, highlighting the importance of ongoing education and fostering a culture of continuous learning within healthcare ..............

Assessment of Covid-19 vaccine confidence among healthcare personnel in the safety-net sector in the United States and Puerto Rico

BackgroundThis study aimed to assess COVID-19 vaccine confidence among healthcare personnel in the safety net sector of the United States and Puerto Rico. This study aimed to examine the extent to which increased knowledge and positive attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccine safety and efficacy were associated with healthcare workers’ COVID-19 vaccination status and their recommendation of the vaccine to all patients.MethodsOnline survey data were collected from health care workers working in Free and Charitable Clinics across the United States and Federally Qualified Health Centers in Puerto Rico. The survey consisted of 62 questions covering various demographic measures and constructs related to healthcare workers’ vaccination status, beliefs, and recommendations for COVID-19 vaccination. Statistical analyses, including multivariate analysis, were conducted to identify the factors associated with the COVID-19 vaccine status and recommendations among healthcare personnel.ResultsAmong the 2273 respondents, 93% reported being vaccinated against COVID-19. The analysis revealed that respondents who believed that COVID-19 vaccines were efficacious and safe were three times more likely to be vaccinated and twice as likely to recommend them to all their patients. Respondents who believed they had received adequate information about COVID-19 vaccination were 10 times more likely to be vaccinated and four times more likely to recommend it to all their patients.ConclusionsThe study results indicate that healthcare workers’ confidence in COVID-19 vaccines is closely tied to their level of knowledge, positive beliefs, and attitudes about vaccine safety and efficacy. The study emphasizes the significance of healthcare workers feeling well informed and confident in their knowledge to recommend the vaccine to their patients. These findings have important implications for the development of strategies to boost COVID-19 vaccine confidence among healthcare workers and increase vaccine uptake among patients.

The impact of provider-patient communication skills on primary healthcare quality and patient satisfaction in rural China: insights from a standardized patient study

ObjectivesIn middle-income countries, poor physician-patient communication remains a recognized barrier to enhancing healthcare quality and patient satisfaction. This study investigates the influence of provider-patient communication skills on healthcare quality and patient satisfaction in the rural primary healthcare setting in China.MethodsData were collected from 504 interactions across 348 rural primary healthcare facilities spanning 21 counties in three provinces. Using the Standardized Patient method, this study measured physician-patient communication behaviors, healthcare quality, and patient satisfaction. Communication skills were assessed using the SEGUE questionnaire framework. Multivariate linear regression models and multivariate logistic regression models, accounting for fixed effects, were employed to evaluate the impact of physicians’ communication skills on healthcare quality and patient satisfaction.ResultsThe findings indicated generally low provider-patient communication skills, with an average total score of 12.2 ± 2.8 (out of 24). Multivariate regression models, which accounted for physicians’ knowledge and other factors, demonstrated positive associations between physicians’ communication skills and healthcare quality, as well as patient satisfaction (P < 0.05). Heterogeneity analysis revealed stronger correlations among primary physicians with lower levels of clinical knowledge or more frequent training.ConclusionThis study emphasizes the importance of prioritizing provider-patient communication skills to enhance healthcare quality and patient satisfaction in rural Chinese primary care settings. It recommends that the Chinese government prioritize the enhancement of provider-patient communication skills to improve healthcare quality and patient satisfaction.

A systematic review to explore patients' MS knowledge and MS risk knowledge.

Living with a chronic illness poses particular challenges, including maintaining current disease knowledge to optimise self-management and interaction with health professionals. People with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) are increasingly encouraged to participate in shared decision making. Making informed decisions is likely to rely on adequate knowledge about the condition and its associated risks. The aim of this systematic review is to explore patients' existing MS knowledge and MS risk knowledge, and how these relate to demographic and disease variables. A literature search was conducted using PsycINFO, PubMed and Cochrane Library. Eligible studies were published peer-reviewed reporting quantitative measures of MS knowledge and MS risk knowledge in adult MS patients. Eighteen studies met inclusion criteria comprising a total sample of 4,420 patients. A narrative synthesis was undertaken because studies employed various measures. Suboptimal levels of MS knowledge and MS risk knowledge were generally identified across studies. Greater self-reported adherence and a willingness to take medication were related to higher MS knowledge, while educational level was a significant predictor of both MS knowledge and MS risk knowledge. Associations with other demographic and disease-related variables were mixed for both knowledge domains. Direct comparison of results across studies were limited by methodological, sampling and contextual heterogeneity. The review's findings and implications for future research and clinical practice are considered from this perspective.

Knowledge, perceived needs of continuous professional’s development, and associated factors among healthcare workers in East Ethiopia: a multi-health facility-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe Ethiopian Ministry of Health (EMOH) has recently introduced a Continuous Professional Development (CPD) program for healthcare workers to ensure they maintain the necessary competencies to meet the community’s health needs. However, there is limited information on healthcare workers’ knowledge and perceived need for CPD. This study aims to assess healthcare workers’ CPD knowledge, perceived needs, and factors associated with these in eastern Ethiopia.MethodsA health facility-based cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted from September 1, 2022, to October 30, 2022. Health facilities and study participants were selected using a simple random sampling technique. A total of 731 healthcare professionals were randomly selected. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire developed from national CPD guidelines. Data analysis was performed using the STATA statistical package version 14. A logistic regression model was used to assess the association between predictors and the outcome variable. Adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated to determine the strength of the association. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsIn this study, 731 healthcare workers participated. Among them, 65.80% (95% CI: 62.35%, 69.24%) had knowledge of CPD, and 79.48% (CI95% 76.54, 82.41) expressed a strong perceived need for CPD. Female healthcare workers [AOR: 0.54 (95% CI: 0.37, 0.78)] and lack of internet access [AOR: 0.68 (95% CI: 0.47–0.97)] were predictors of knowledge of CPD. Age above 35 [AOR: 0.39 (95% CI: 0.17, 0.91)] and being female [AOR: 0.59 (95% CI: 0.40–0.87)] were predictors of a strong perceived need for CPD.ConclusionThe study found that there was a low level of knowledge about Continuing Professional Development among healthcare workers. The perceived needs of healthcare workers varied. It is important for health sectors and stakeholders to prioritize developing strategies that address knowledge gaps, particularly among female healthcare workers, improve access to the Internet for CPD resources, and address the diverse needs of professionals for effective CPD implementation.

What polarizes citizens? An explorative analysis of 817 attitudinal items from a non-random online panel in Germany.

Various studies point to the lack of evidence of distributive opinion polarization in Europe. As most studies analyse the same item batteries from international social surveys, this lack of polarization might be due to an item's issue (e.g., the nature or substance of an item) or item formulation characteristics used to measure polarization. Based on a unique sample of 817 political attitudinal items asked in 2022 by respondents of a non-random online panel in Germany, we empirically assess the item characteristics most likely to lead to distributive opinion polarization-measured with the Van der Eijk agreement index. Our results show that only 20% of the items in our sample have some-at most moderate-level of opinion polarization. Moreover, an item's salience in the news media before the survey data collection, whether an item measures attitudes toward individual financial and non-financial costs, and the implicit level of knowledge required to answer an item (level of technicality) are significantly associated with higher opinion polarization. By contrast, items measuring a cultural issue (such as issues on gender, LGTBQI+, and ethnic minorities) and items with a high level of abstraction are significantly associated with a lower level of polarization. Our study highlights the importance of reflecting on the potential influence of an item's issue and item formulation characteristics on the empirical assessment of distributive opinion polarization.

The scientific knowledge of three large language models in cardiology: multiple choice questions examination-based performance

Background: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots like Google’s Bard, OpenAI’s ChatGPT, and Microsoft’s Bing Chatbot into academic and professional domains, including cardiology, has been rapidly evolving. Their application in educational and research frameworks, however, raises questions about their efficacy, particularly in specialized fields like cardiology. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge depth and accuracy of these AI chatbots in cardiology using a multiple-choice question (MCQ) format. Methods: The study was conducted as an exploratory, cross-sectional study in November 2023 on a bank of 100 MCQs covering various cardiology topics that was created from authoritative textbooks and question banks. These MCQs were then used to assess the knowledge level of Google’s Bard, Microsoft Bing, and ChatGPT 4.0. Each question was entered manually into the chatbots, ensuring no memory retention bias. Results: The study found that ChatGPT 4.0 demonstrated the highest knowledge score in cardiology, with 87% accuracy, followed by Bing at 60% and Bard at 46%. The performance varied across different cardiology subtopics, with ChatGPT consistently outperforming the others. Notably, the study revealed significant differences in the proficiency of these chatbots in specific cardiology domains. Conclusion: This study highlights a spectrum of efficacy among AI chatbots in disseminating cardiology knowledge. ChatGPT 4.0 emerged as a potential auxiliary educational resource in cardiology, surpassing traditional learning methods in some aspects. However, the variability in performance among these AI systems underscores the need for cautious evaluation and continuous improvement, especially for chatbots like Bard, to ensure reliability and accuracy in medical knowledge dissemination.

Knowledge Regarding Autism among Pre School Teachers of Kathmandu, Nepal

Introduction: Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a diverse group of conditions. They are characterized by some degree of difficulty with social interaction and communication. The aim of study is to find the level of knowledge among preschool teacher. Methodology: Purposive sampling was taken to find out knowledge level of preschool teachers in Kathmandu. Analysis: Both descriptive and inferential statistics was used to analyze the data. Socio demographic data were analyzed using descriptive statistics Chi. Square test was used at 95% Confidence Interval where p value&lt;0.05 be considered statistically significant to find significance of difference in level of knowledge. Chi-square test to determine the association between level of knowledge and selected demographic variables and source of information Results and Discussion: All respondents were female. The highest score was only 19. Near to one third of respondents i.e. 32.9% had poor knowledge, one fourth of respondents i.e. 25% had average knowledge on ASD and only 42.1 % of respondents had good level of knowledge on ASD. Mean score was only 10.5 in this study where the total score was 31. Conclusion: The knowledge of preschool teachers on ASD is not adequate. All most all respondents were female. Training on disability and ASD was not taken by majority respondents.

Assessment of Level of Awareness and Barriers to Low Vision Rehabilitation Among Optometrists in Pakistan

Introduction: Low vision rehabilitation provides strategies to substitute for visual impairment and the resultant limitations of low vision by enhancing remaining vision and other sensory or motor abilities in individuals. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the level of knowledge of and perceived barriers to providing low vision rehabilitation by optometrists in Pakistan. Methods: In this qualitative, cross-sectional study, a convenient sample of 100 participants was included and a structured, validated, self-administered questionnaire was provided to collect demographic information and to identify the level of knowledge, awareness, and perceived barriers regarding low vision rehabilitation. Data was analyzed using frequency distribution and Pearson's chi-square test to understand the significance of barriers to low vision care provision. Results: A total of 100 participants completed the study questionnaire (59 males, 41 females) with a mean age of 26 (±6.1 SD) years. Eighty-two participants (82%) had an adequate understanding of low vision as per WHO's criteria. However, 47% of participants failed to identify the steps of low vision rehabilitation. Newly graduated practicing optometrists (i.e., those with less than 3 years’ experience) had a significantly better understanding of low vision definition and low vision rehabilitation steps, as compared to more experienced optometrists ( p &lt; .05). Also, those working in private practices were more likely to consider low vision rehabilitation as less profitable ( p = .025, odds ratio = 2.56, CI = 1.1–5.8), compared to those working in hospitals. Discussion: Lack of training and unavailability of low vision devices are major barriers, as perceived by optometrists in Pakistan. Rigorous attempts are needed to educate eye care practitioners specifically optometrists about the availability and usage of low-cost, improved-quality, and up-to-date low vision devices in the country. Implications for practitioners: Continuous professional development through refresher courses is crucial to enhance knowledge of low vision rehabilitation. Educating optometrists to adopt a multidisciplinary and empathetic approach toward patient management may improve patients’ satisfaction and success with rehabilitative services.

KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE OF FOOD HYGIENE AMONG FOOD VENDORS IN LAFIA, NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Most nations, including Nigeria, have large populations that consume street food, and most of those who would not otherwise be employed make a living by selling it. Because the majority of street sellers are underprivileged, illiterate, and care little to nothing about food safety and hygiene, serious worries about the safety of these meals have been growing. This study evaluated the actions, attitudes, and knowledge of food vendors in Lafia Town, Nasarawa State, with regard to food safety. A basic random sampling procedure was used to choose a sample of 261 respondents for a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. A methodical questionnaire was employed to gather information. Descriptive statistics (frequency percentage, mean, and standard deviation) were used to analyse the data, and Chi-square was used to test hypotheses at the 5% significance level. The research results revealed that the participants' average age was 39.20 ± 9.536. Considering the respondents' general level of knowledge, most of 234 (89.7%) have a good comprehension of the significance of safety of food. Most of respondents, or 230 (88.1%), indicated that vendors of food had a generally positive attitude on food cleanliness. The results demonstrated that the most of respondents, 163 (62.5%), practise good food hygiene. A few of the factors that the study found affected the food vendors' practices of food hygiene were: 100 (38.3), forgetting to follow food hygiene guidelines, 0 (0.0%), not having monitoring teams visit, 22 (8.4%), and not receiving regular scores to check the method of food preparation and how it is served. The respondents' attitude and knowledge levels did not significantly correlate (Fisher's exact 0.918 and p=0.338). According to the study, even though food vendors' knowledge, attitudes, and practices seemed adequate, there is still a need for all parties involved to put in place regulatory measures to guarantee that food vendors adhere to standards appropriate for the public consumption and to continuously raise public awareness of the need of observing food hygiene practices and outbreaks of food-borne illnesses, which are common in our society.

Assessment of Knowledge and Concern of People Living with HIV Regarding Human Mpox and Vaccination.

Mpox virus is an orthopoxvirus that causes the zoonotic infectious disease known as mpox. The disease can also spread from humans to humans. It can be transmitted through contact with bodily fluids, lesions on the skin, or internal mucosal surfaces. The number of mpox cases increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Early diagnosis and prompt management of mpox are critical in people living with HIV (PLHIV). In this study, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among PLHIV followed at the outpatient clinic between 20 April-20 August 2023. A questionnaire was used to assess the knowledge and anxiety levels of patients as well as their opinions about vaccination against mpox. The severity of symptoms in the past two weeks was assessed using the Generalised Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale. A total of 203 PLHIV were interviewed for this survey study. The mean age was 39.37±11.93. The majority of them were male (86.7%), and 41.4% were men who have sex with men (MSM). Only 21 of the surveyed participants (10.4%) had a "good knowledge" score about mpox. The mean knowledge score on human Mpox was 2.05 (min:0-max:8), and 107 (52.7%) had a score of 0. The future study should focus on continuous education, promoting awareness through programs and establishing measures to successfully overcome identified variables that contribute to mpox pandemic understanding and attitudes. Applying the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic will help the management of mpox virus.

Knowledge and Uptake of Community-Based Healthcare Financing in Management of Non-Communicable Diseases among Community Members in Anambra State, Nigeria

Background: Catastrophic health expenditure is one of the challenges people living with non-communicable disease face, especially in Nigeria. This has led to the emergence of community-based health insurance as a means to achieve universal health coverage and reduce out-of-pocket payments. However, lack of knowledge about the insurance scheme and how it helps to manage non-communicable diseases seems to affect utilization. Aim: The study assessed the knowledge and uptake of community based healthcare financing in the management of non-communicable diseases among community members in Anambra State. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted for the study, sample size was 444 and a multistage sampling technique was used. The instrument for data collection was a self structured questionnaire and data obtained were analyzed using Microsoft excel, descriptive statistics, inferential statistics for hypothesis testing and IBM statistical package for social Sciences (SPSS) version 29. Results: 64.1% had a good knowledge of community based healthcare financing; 51.4% managed their health condition through hospital visits under CBHI. There was a significant relationship between the level of education of respondents and their level of knowledge of community based health insurance (p-value 0.001 &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: Majority had a good knowledge; those suffering pregnancy related non-communicable diseases used the insurance more although half of the respondents still pay through their pocket. The following recommendations were made: increase access to community-based healthcare financing information, encourage those in the informal sector to enroll and plan benefit packages to have wide illness coverage.

University Students’ Perception of the Dehesa and the Associated Traditional Trades

The dehesas are one of the most emblematic landscapes of the Extremadura region (Spain). Along with its natural values, it preserves a wide repertoire of knowledge and trades rooted in the history and tradition of rural communities. However, the knowledge and practices that have characterized life in this environment are currently under serious threat. Faced with this problem, this study was based on the premise that, for individuals to commit themselves to the care and transmission of heritage, it is first necessary for them to know, understand and value it. For this reason, the main objective was to determine the knowledge and appreciation of university students with respect to the dehesa and the ancestral practice of grazing. It also aimed to analyze which are the most valued methodologies, activities, and future strategies for understanding and preserving these cultural landscapes and their ancestral practices. To this end, 400 university students were surveyed, and various quantitative and qualitative analyses were carried out. Quantitative techniques include analyses based on weighted averages, contingency tables and the chi-square test, while qualitative techniques are based on word frequency analysis and inductive content analysis. Despite coming from an environment dominated by this landscape and being one of the few regions that still preserve the ancestral practice of pastoralism, the results corroborated the students’ lack of understanding of the dehesa and the variety of uses it offers. In addition, it was evident that they have hardly frequented this landscape and have not participated in on-site educational experiences. It also revealed the importance of experiential and sensory activities in the understanding and appreciation of the rural environment and its traditions. The results can be useful for improving the design of educational tourism products based on intangible heritage. It can also be useful for adapting teaching strategies and activities to the level of knowledge and experiences of students, helping to ensure the success of the educational experience.