Recommendations For Programs Research Articles

2672 Exploring stakeholders’ experiences implementing a navigation program for people living with dementia and their carers

Abstract Introduction Navigating dementia care is challenging, but patient navigation (PN) offers valuable support for this population. The ‘Navigating Dementia NB/Naviguer la démence NB’ program piloted a PN program in New Brunswick, Canada, targeting people living with dementia (PLWD) and their carers. The program aimed to assist participants in navigating health and social care systems, matching their needs with available services. Methods Navigating Dementia NB was co-developed by researchers, patient partners, and clinicians. This pilot program embedded six PNs in primary care clinics/centres across the province between July 2022 and July 2023. Using a mixed methods approach, participant surveys and interviews were used to explore program benefits and recommendations for improvement. Focus groups were used to explore facilitators and barriers to program development and implementation. Results There were 150 participants (PLWD and carer dyads) enrolled in the PN program who provided informed consent. Interviews were conducted with 36 PLWD and their carers. Focus groups were conducted with nine members of the research team and five patient navigators. Program benefits included: emotional support from navigators, provision of relevant information, and facilitating connections to appropriate services. Recommendations for improvement included: the need for PLWD and their carers to have access earlier in the patient journey and the need to reassess provincial policies related to home care support. Facilitators for implementing a PN program included: providing appropriate staff training and leveraging established connections within the health and social systems. Barriers included a compressed timeline and existing systemic issues to service access. Conclusions The findings suggest that embedding PN for PLWD in community based primary care can be done. The program was beneficial for PWLD and their caregivers/care partners. Future plans involve partnering with government to support the implementation and evaluation of a province-wide scale-up of the PN program for this population.

Residency training programs to support residents working in First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities

BackgroundTo gain culturally appropriate awareness of First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis Health, research suggests that programs focus on sending more trainees to First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis communities Working within this context provides experiences and knowledge that build upon classroom education and support trainees’ acquisition of skills to engage in culturally safe healthcare provision. This study examines residents' and faculty members' perceptions of how residency training programs can optimize First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis health training and support residents in gaining the knowledge, skills, and experiences for working in and with First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis communities.MethodsA qualitative approach was used, guided by a relational lens for collecting data and a constructivist grounded theory for data interpretation. Theoretical sampling was used to recruit 35 participants from three main study sites across two western Canadian provinces. Recruitment, data collection, and analysis using constructivist grounded theory occurred concurrently to ensure appropriate depth of exploration.ResultsOur data analysis revealed five themes: Five themes were generated: Complexity of voluntourism as a concept; Diversity of knowledge representation required for developing curriculum; Effective models of care for First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis health; Essential traits that residents should have for working in First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis communities; and Building relationships and trust by engaging the community.ConclusionsFirst Nations, Inuit and/or Métis Health should be prioritized within Canadian postgraduate medical education. Equipping trainees to provide holistic care, immersing in and learning from First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis communities is essential for developing the next generation of clinicians and preceptors. We present educational recommendations for residency programs to optimize First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis health educational experiences and provide residents with skills to provide effective and culturally safe care.

Operation Optimization Model of Regional Power Grid Considering Congestion Management and Security Check in Complex Market Operation Environment

Security checks are essential for ensuring the safe operation of the regional power grid (RPG) and the smooth functioning of the electricity spot market (ESM). Currently, China’s RPG operating environment encompasses a complex mix of centralized ESM, decentralized ESM, and planned power generation. This complexity has led to increasingly severe RPG congestion issues. To address this, this paper introduces a security check mechanism design and operational optimization approach tailored for RPGs in complex markets, with a focus on congestion management. Firstly, the paper elaborates on the practical foundations, unique constraints, and requirements for security checks and congestion management during the RPG’s operational mode transitions. Secondly, it outlines the principles underlying the security check mechanism and presents a framework for RPG security checks and congestion management. Through a comparative analysis of three different programs, including their advantages, disadvantages, and applicable scenarios, the paper provides an optimal program recommendation. Building on this, the paper develops an operational optimization method that incorporates congestion management for each of the three security check and congestion management programs. Lastly, an IEEE-39 node test system is simulated to validate the effectiveness of the proposed programs. The mechanism and simulation analysis results show that Program 3, based on market mechanisms, has theoretical and practical advantages over Program 1 (based on multiple adjustments) and Program 2 (based on dispatch plans) for congestion management. Under the same line congestion situation, Program 1 requires two adjustments to relieve the line congestion, while Program 2 and Program 3 can solve the problem with just one optimization adjustment, and the congestion management effect of Program 3 is more obvious and superior.

Exploring the relationship between teachers’ beliefs on the nature and learning of mathematics and self-efficacy in teaching mathematics at the primary school level

For more than 30 years, the study of teachers’ beliefs has been crucial to the mathematics education field since teachers’ beliefs may significantly influence students’ learning of mathematics. This study included 127 Estonian in-service primary and secondary school mathematics teachers teaching grades three to five. We examined their beliefs about the nature of mathematics, learning of mathematics, and their confidence in their ability to teach the subject (self-efficacy). Moreover, we aimed to explore the relationships between these beliefs. We also investigated the possible differences between subject teachers and class teachers and possible differences regarding teacher work experience. Teachers’ self-efficacy beliefs about goal setting, motivation, and cognitive activation were positively correlated. Self-efficacy beliefs on goal setting had positive effect on rules and procedures beliefs (nature of mathematics) and teacher-directed beliefs (learning of mathematics). In addition, the results showed a negative relationship between self-efficacy beliefs on cognitive activation and rules and procedures and teacher-directed beliefs. No statistically significant relationship was found between the teachers’ beliefs and their years of experience. Nonetheless, a strong correlation was discovered between the type of teachers (i.e., class teacher or subject teacher) and self-efficacy beliefs related to cognitive activation. These findings draw attention to the intricate links between teachers’ different beliefs and offer recommendations for teacher preparation programs and further study.

South to south collaboration: advancing quality of abortion care through health care professionals exchange program

BackgroundSouth-South Cooperation (SSC) is recognized as a vital component of goal 17 – ‘Partnerships for the goals’ within the SDGs and countries in the global south has been utilizing this cooperation mainly in research. We report the first health care professional exchange program through this south-to-south collaboration focusing on advancing quality of abortion care in the Sub-Saharan region.MethodsWe conducted a comprehensive mixed method study, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative approaches, to assess the impact of health care professionals’ exchange program within the obstetrics and gynecology departments of two teaching institutions in Ethiopia and Rwanda over the course of a year (February 1, 2023-January 31,2024). Our methodology involved administering a self-administered questionnaire on Google Form to health professionals who participated in the exchange program. Qualitative data were collected through an in-depth interview with representative subjects from these professionals. Simple descriptive statistics using SPSS version 23 was employed to analyze the quantitative data. For the qualitative data, recruitment of participants continued until thematic saturation was achieved, signifying no emergence of new themes. Thematic analysis, following initial coding and inter-coder agreement, was employed to identify key themes from the interviews. Finally, triangulation of qualitative and quantitative data was performed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the program’s impact.ResultsAmong 60 health care professionals whom we have approached for this survey, 55 consented and participated in the survey, representing a response rate of 92%. Among them, 35 (63.6%) were from Rwanda, 20 (36.4%) were from Ethiopia, 23.6% were females, 80.0% were residents and 16.4% were midwives. The overall mean scores for knowledge, attitude, and practice transformation on safe abortion care by Rwandese professionals were 84.9%, 84.5%, and 84.6%, respectively. From the Ethiopian side, the overall score for knowledge and attitude, and intent to practice demonstration were 81.3, 83.4%. Essentially, they expressed that it allowed them to inspire Rwandese counterparts on the importance of women’s reproductive rights and implementation of global best practice (89%). On analysis of the qualitative data, we identified 3 overarching themes: 1) Opportunities created by the exchange 2) Inputs on safe abortion care quality improvement 3) Recommendations for future exchange programs. Most participants indicated that the exchange program was very helpful in advancing knowledge, attitude, and intent to practice quality abortion care. Participants from both sides agreed that the safe abortion care services provided in Ethiopia is far advanced, which can be reproduced in Rwanda by implementing the lessons learned from the exchange program.ConclusionSouth-to-south collaboration through health care professionals exchange programs among developing countries (including Sub-Saharan Africa) is feasible and helpful in transforming the level of reproductive health practice (mainly safe abortion care) as well as advocating for better reproductive health rights in these countries.

“Suicide’s very abstract”: A qualitative analysis of risk assessment training recommendations from family physicians

Suicide risk has consistently increased over the past 2.5 decades, despite growing awareness and tailored programs aimed at combating this epidemic. Suicide prevention initiatives include ensuring 24/7 access to crisis hotlines, encouraging individuals to seek mental health care, and reducing access to lethal means among high-risk populations. A recent area of focus is the physician’s office, as research shows that nearly half of those who die by suicide had seen a primary care physician within one month of their death. However, primary care physicians do not consistently inquire about suicide risk among their patients. This study presents findings from 15 interviews with family medicine residents at a U.S. military hospital. Participants identified gaps in three key areas of training: i) foundational knowledge (e.g., risk assessment flow, available tools and resources, and therapeutic skills), ii) training program structure (e.g., timing, exposure, and effectiveness), and iii) training culture (e.g., fostering courage and support). Residents recognized their central role in suicide prevention and were eager to address perceived gaps in their knowledge. They also shared their ideal training environment, which would support learning and skill development. This paper offers clear and actionable recommendations for family medicine residency programs to advance the suicide prevention agenda.

The Role of Fashion and Art in First Nations Healing, Decolonisation, and Cultural Practice

This paper explores the intersection of art, fashion, and decolonisation within First Nations communities, focusing on how clothing and adornment are powerful tools for healing, cultural survival, and resistance. Through art programs, fashion workshops, and community-based projects, First Nations peoples reconnect with culture, land, and history, fostering identity and continuity while addressing the traumas of colonisation. This paper examines how First Nations artists and designers engage with traditional garments, such as kangaroo skin cloaks and shell necklaces, to reclaim ancestral practices and challenge colonial traumas. By reinterpreting colonial clothes and creating new forms of fashion, artists engage in truth-telling, amplify resilience, and promote reconciliation. This paper highlights the role of art and fashion as an aesthetic expression and a strategy for cultural survival and resistance. It concludes by offering recommendations for policies and programs that support First Nations fashion initiatives, fostering economic opportunities, social well-being, and intergenerational healing. Ultimately, this paper advocates for the transformative power of art and fashion as pathways to decolonisation and empowerment for First Nations communities.

Harmonizing Cognitive and Psychosocial Needs in Cognitive Training: Lessons Learned from Piano Training in Persons Living with Mild Cognitive Impairment

ABSTRACT Objectives This qualitative study explored the potential of piano training as a holistic intervention to enhance both cognitive and emotional well-being. The study aims to detail the experiences of older adults living with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in a piano training program and recommend strategies to boost engagement. Methods Fourteen individuals (seven older adults with MCI and their family members) participated in individual semi-structured interviews before and after a 12-week group-based piano training program. These interviews were recorded, transcribed, open-coded, and analyzed by conventional content analysis. Results Participants with MCI reported improvements in mood, cognitive function, and social interaction. The learning process elicited mixed emotions, with both enjoyment and frustration occurring during the learning phases. Skill mastery and positive social interactions were crucial for sustained engagement throughout the program, although group settings sometimes led to negative self-comparisons. Conclusions Findings highlighted the need to address both cognitive and emotional needs in interventions for MCI. Neglecting these aspects can exacerbate feelings of low self-esteem and other negative emotions. Clinical implications Recommendations for cognitive training programs include positive reinforcement, personalized support, mental preparation for challenges, and rapport building to enhance participant motivation and adherence.

Translational and clinical comparison of whole genome and transcriptome to panel sequencing in precision oncology

Precision oncology offers new cancer treatment options, yet sequencing methods vary in type and scope. In this study, we compared whole-exome/whole-genome (WES/WGS) and transcriptome sequencing (TS) with broad panel sequencing by resequencing the same tumor DNA and RNA as well as normal tissue DNA for germline assessment, from 20 patients with rare or advanced tumors, who were originally sequenced by WES/WGS ± TS within the DKFZ/NCT/DKTK MASTER program from 2015 to 2020. Molecular analyses resulted in a median number of 2.5 (gene panel) to 3.5 (WES/WGS ± TS) treatment recommendations per patient. Our results showed that approximately half of the therapy recommendations (TRs) of both sequencing programs were identical, while approximately one-third of the TRs in WES/WGS ± TS relied on biomarkers not covered by the panel. Eight of 10 molecularly informed therapy implementations were supported by the panel, the remaining two were based on biomarkers absent from the panel, highlighting the potential additional clinical benefit of WGS and TS.

Advancing Quality and Safety Culture in Healthcare: Insights From the Evaluation of an Improvement Science Program for Nurses and Midwives.

This paper presents the outcomes and insights gained from the implementation of an Improvement Science program tailored for nursing and midwifery staff within a large local health district in New South Wales. The programme aimed to enhance frontline clinicians' confidence and capability in quality improvement, ultimately improving patient outcomes and safety culture. Through an explanatory sequential mixed-methods evaluation study, we assessed the programme's effectiveness in building capacity, sustaining practice changes and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Quantitative data were collected through pre-post knowledge surveys, post workshop feedback and programme participation rates. Qualitative data were then collected via nine interviews with programme participants. Simple descriptive statistical analysis for quantitative data and a thematic analysis of qualitative data was undertaken. Data were then integrated from these multiple sources to gain a deeper understanding of the outcomes of the Improvement Science Program. Key findings indicate that coaching and mentoring support significantly contributed to project completion and sustained practice changes. Structured coaching sessions, collaborative team meetings, and executive sponsorship were vital components that facilitated successful outcomes. Notably, effective leadership, often demonstrated by Clinical Nurse Educators and Consultants, played a crucial role in fostering staff collaboration and participation. Insights from qualitative interviews highlight the transformative impact of the programme on participants' skills, confidence and practice. The paper concludes with recommendations for future Improvement Science programs, emphasising the importance of structured coaching, accountability mechanisms, and the identification and support of future coaches. Overall, this study underscores the value of ongoing training initiatives in promoting a culture of safety, quality improvement and enhanced patient outcomes in healthcare settings. This study had no patient or public contribution. Adherence to Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) EQUATOR guidelines (see Supplementary file).

Empowering Teachers with VR Technology for Immersive Learning Experiences

Background: The study explores insights from participants' discussions on the utilization of Virtual Reality (VR) technology in education and proposes recommendations to improve teacher competence in this domain. Contribution: The aim of this study was to identify training needs and educators' preferences in effectively integrating VR tools into their teaching practices. Method: This method involves collecting statements from participants, including their reflections on the benefits and challenges of using VR in education, as well as their suggestions for improvement. Results: Through thematic analysis, key findings emerged, showing strong interest among participants in utilizing VR to create immersive and engaging learning experiences. However, participants also expressed the need for additional training to address technical challenges, develop pedagogical strategies, and align the use of VR with curriculum requirements. Conclusion: Based on these findings, recommendations for follow-up training programs include providing comprehensive training on VR use, offering hands-on practice sessions, showcasing diverse VR applications, emphasizing strategies to increase student engagement, and building ongoing professional development opportunities. By addressing these recommendations, educators can improve their competence in utilizing VR technology to create a more effective and innovative learning environment.

Emotional intelligence and lecturer satisfaction: mediating effects of workplace environment and work-life balance in Ghanaian higher learning institutions

This study examined the direct and mediating relationships between lecturer’s emotional intelligence, work-life balance, workplace environment and job satisfaction among higher learning institutions in Ghana. The study adopted cross-sectional explanatory and correlational research approach. A total of two hundred and forty-eight (248) lecturers were sampled from twenty (20) randomly selected colleges of education in Ghana to participate in the study. Questionnaires served as the data collection instruments. Seven (7) hypotheses were tested for direct and mediating relationships among the variables using Partial Least Squares (PLS) Structural Equation Modelling. For direct effects, the following were found: Significant positive relationships existed between lecturer’s emotional intelligence and job satisfaction as well as lecturer’s emotional intelligence and workplace environment. The results also indicated that, a significant positive relationship exists between lecturer emotional intelligence and work-life balance. Moreover, significant positive relationships were found to exist between work-life balance and job satisfaction as well as workplace environment and job satisfaction among lecturers. For indirect effects, it was found that work-life balance and workplace environment mediated the relationships between lecturer’s emotional intelligence and job satisfaction. The study contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence from the Ghanaian context and highlights the need for higher education institutions to prioritize emotional intelligence development among their staff. Practical implications include recommendations for training programs and supportive policies aimed at fostering emotional intelligence, promoting a positive work culture, and enhancing overall job satisfaction among lecturers. Future research directions include longitudinal studies and investigations into other cultural, institutional and contextual factors that influence job satisfaction in academic settings.

Investigating the Importance of Teacher Behaviors in Educational Process at Secondary Schools of Lahore

The importance of teachers’ behaviors in educational process and their impact on students learning outcomes have been studied in this article. A descriptive survey study design acquired data from 250 students and 28 teachers using validated questionnaires of high reliability. Overall, Cranach’s Alpha was .84. Objectives were to explore teachers' behaviors, their effects on student learning, what affects those behaviors, and how those behaviors might be enhanced. A 5-point Likert scale was employed to measure responses which are presented statistically using descriptive statistics, t-tests, and ANOVA, using SPSS V-29. Results indicated a high level of agreement on the significance of behaviors, such as the teacher’s being on time, being fair, showing respect, and engaging students, with the highest mean score obtained for the teacher effecting positive influence on the learning environment (M=1.80, SD=1.21). No significant differences in perceptions by gender, age or mother tongue were found. Locality was, however, shown to be an important factor (p<0.05), with urban respondents differing slightly from rural ones in their views. The results underline the importance of teacher behaviors in creating effective learning environments. Such programs make recommendations of professional development programs that could help to improve teachers’ interpersonal and instructional skill, to have a positive impact on students. Lastly, if we implement these factors, secondary education will significantly improve.

Penguatan Kesadaran Hak dan Kewajiban melalui Program Edukasi di Lapas Narkotika Kelas IIA Pamekasan

The educational program “Strengthening Awareness of Rights and Obligations through an Educational Program at Class IIA Pamekasan Narcotics Prison” aims to improve the understanding of prisoners regarding their rights and obligations in the context of prison guidance. Implemented at Class IIA Pamekasan Narcotics Prison, the program integrates a participatory-based educational approach with materials covering basic rights, legal protection, and responsibilities as prisoners. Methods used include lectures, group discussions, and case simulations, with evaluation conducted through surveys and interviews. The results of the program showed a significant increase in prisoners' awareness of their rights and obligations, as well as positive changes in behavior and participation in prison activities. Challenges encountered include limited resources and initial resistance from some participants. However, the success of this program shows great potential for improving the quality of rehabilitation in prisons. Recommendations for similar programs include improved educational materials and adaptation for other prisons to expand the positive impact. This program makes an important contribution to the development of more effective and humane coaching practices in prison settings.

Pemanfaatan IoT untuk Monitoring Kualitas Air dan Pelatihan Pembuatan Abon Ikan di Pokdakan Mina Jaya Banyumas

The Mina Jaya fish farming group in Banyumas Regency faces significant challenges in freshwater fish farming, primarily due to poor water quality caused by household waste contamination. This issue leads to high fish mortality rates, especially for mujaer, catfish, and tilapia, significantly reducing harvest yields and economic returns. To address these problems, this community service program introduced Internet of Things (IoT) technology for real-time water quality monitoring. The program also included training on IoT usage and post-harvest management, specifically the production of fish floss (abon), to enhance the value of fish products. IoT implementation proved effective in reducing fish mortality, improving water conditions, and increasing operational efficiency. Furthermore, the post-harvest training enabled the group to diversify their products and increase income. These results demonstrate the potential of combining modern technology and community empowerment to overcome aquaculture challenges and improve productivity. The program recommends expanding IoT usage, continuing post-harvest product diversification, and fostering sustainable collaboration to maximize long-term benefits.

Mobile STEM Programming

Abstract This mixed-methods study investigated the effectiveness of a STEM Carnival program in enhancing STEM understanding among 2,108 middle school students across five rural East Texas campuses. The study aimed to assess students’ perceptions of the carnival activities, their learning gains, and their recommendations for future events. Results indicated a high level of student engagement, particularly in hands-on and interactive activities, highlighting the value of experiential and context-based learning. Notably, 98% of the students, including those from underrepresented ethnic groups and across genders, reported knowledge gains. These findings suggest that such interactive programs can significantly enhance STEM learning and foster a sense of community and collaboration. This study underscores the potential of STEM carnivals to promote interest in STEM careers and offers recommendations for future educational programming in rural settings.

Incorporating Training Prescription from a Countermovement Jump-based Algorithm Does Not Improve Jump Performance

Countermovement jump (CMJ) testing is a commonly used, effective tool for monitoring performance, neuromuscular fatigue, and injury risk. Force plates can provide information about jump performance including power, explosiveness, and interlimb asymmetry. Embedded human performance (HP) teams focus on preparing military personnel to meet the physical demands of their occupations, and with the implementation of CMJ monitoring; they can work towards eliminating the risk of musculoskeletal injuries (MSKI). The purpose of this study was twofold: 1) Determine whether the intervention exercises prescribed by Sparta Science training program changed an individual’s jump performance over a 10-week training program and 2) Evaluate how Sparta strength training recommendations impacted other performance metrics over the training program. This study included 31 active-duty Air Force personnel who completed a 10-week, concurrent training program with pre- and post-testing. Sparta jump height increased by 2.11 centimeters on average. Lower body anaerobic capacity improved as evidenced by significant lower body wingate relative (W/kg) (p=0.022) and absolute power (W) (p=0.045) increases from pre- to post-testing. The results of this study indicated that practitioners are not likely to achieve optimal results for either injury risk or jump performance by following Sparta’s training suggestions. Instead, these results indicate that the appropriate training program recommendations include focus on the specific needs of an individual, to include strength, power, and force-developing exercises to elicit optimal jump and performance metric outcomes.

Fostering Sustainable Communities: Competencies and Training Needs for Social Organic Farming in Hungary, Greece, and Italy

This study examines key competencies in social organic farming (SOF) as perceived by stakeholders in Hungary, Greece, and Italy, including necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes. It also explores the educational and professional requirements for those aiming to become social organic farmers, ultimately contributing to an ideal farmer profile. Through qualitative methods, such as semi-structured interviews with stakeholders, the study identifies essential competencies and training needs for SOF. Results show that successful social organic farmers must understand organic farming principles, social work, farm economics, and possess personal skills like empathy, team-work, and effective communication. These competencies and training align with Social Capital Theory, Diffusion of Innovation Theory, and Community-Based Participatory Research, under-scoring the importance of social networks, community engagement, and innovation in advancing sustainable and inclusive agricultural practices. The study also highlights SOF's role in supporting community well-being, enhancing sustainable food systems, and promoting both physical and mental health. Findings offer valuable insights into the limited literature on SOF, providing actionable recommendations for vocational training programs that support social organic farmers’ growth across Europe. This, in turn, fosters sustainable agriculture, circular economies, and public health, thereby strengthening community resilience and ecological stability.

Informing peer support programs for active duty military spouses of U.S. Army soldiers

LAY SUMMARY With 50% of active duty service members being married, spouses are critical in supporting military readiness. Yet, because of the nature of military service, spouses experience numerous challenges, including education and career progression, parenting and child care, managing family separation during deployment and training, and accessibility of health care. Peer support programs can develop a sense of community, provide support for shared challenges, and offer access to resources. Building on a peer support program with Veteran spouses, this study identified the challenges and needs of active duty spouses to inform adaptation of the program. Five focus groups were conducted on Zoom with 35 active duty military spouses to understand their main concerns and preferences for a peer support program. Major themes identified were challenges of military life, benefits of military life, and recommendations for peer support programming. This study’s findings will be used to adapt and develop a peer support program to be tested with military spouses of U.S. Army soldiers in a study funded by the U.S. Department of Defense.

The use of a benign fast-growing cyanobacterial species to control microcystin synthesis from Microcystis aeruginosa.

Microcystis aeruginosa (M. aeruginosa), one of the most prevalent blue-green algae in aquatic environments, produces microcystin by causing harmful algal blooms (HAB). This study investigated the combined effects of nutrients and cyanobacterial subpopulation competition on synthesizing microcystin-LR. In varied nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations, cyanobacterial coculture, and algicidal DCMU presence, the growth was monitored by optical density analysis or microscopic counting, and the microcystin production was analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography-UV. Furthermore, growth and toxin production were predicted using MATLAB. First, coculturing with a fast-growing cyanobacterium Synechococcus elongatus UTEX 2973 (S. elongatus) reduced M. aeruginosa biomass and microcystin production at 30oC. Under high nitrogen and low phosphorus conditions, S. elongatus is mostly effective, with up to 94.7% and 92.4% limitation of M. aeruginosa growth and toxin synthesis, respectively. Second, this biological strategy became less effective at 23oC, where S. elongatus grew slower. Third, photosynthesis inhibitor DCMU (3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea) hindered M. aeruginosa growth (at 0.1 mg/L) and microcystin production (at 0.02 mg/L). DCMU was also effective for controlling microcystin production in S. elongatus-M. aeruginosa cocultures. Based on experimental results, a multi-substrate, multi-species kinetic model was built to describe coculture growth and population interactions. Future research should examine more complex models to further develop and refine to facilitate the derivation of more effective recommendations for health prevention programs, particularly for mothers and girls.