Support Networks Research Articles

How to optimize the CAR-T Cell therapy process? A group concept mapping analysis of preconditions for a frictionless process from a German multistakeholder perspective.

Treatment with chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells involves a large number of interdisciplinary stakeholders and is associated with complex processes ranging from patient-specific production to follow-up care. Due to the complexity, maximum process optimization is required in order to avoid efficiency losses. This study aimed at systematically determining the preconditions for a frictionless flow of the CAR-T process by surveying the stakeholders involved. A Group Concept Mapping (GCM) analysis, a mixed-methods participatory research, was conducted. CAR-T experts from different professional backgrounds went through three steps: 1) Brainstorming relevant aspects (statements) for a frictionless process, 2) Sorting the collected statements based on their similarity, and 3) Rating the importance and feasibility of each statement. A cluster map reflecting the overarching topics was derived, and mean ratings per statement and cluster were calculated. Overall, 20 CAR-T experts participated. A total of 80 statements were collected, resulting in a map of the following 10 clusters (mean importance/feasibility): Information for patients and physicians (4.16/3.77), Supportive network (4.03/3.53), Eligibility of patients (4.41/3.63), Evidence, transparency and communication (4.01/3.33), Paperwork (4.1/2.52), Interface with pharmaceutical manufacturer (4.03/2.85), Reimbursement (4.29/2.31), Quality Management (4.17/3.18), Infrastructure of CAR-T clinics (4.1/2.93), and Patient-oriented processes (4.46/3.32). The 80 statements underlined the complex and manifold nature of the CAR-T treatment process. Our results reflect the first step in overcoming hurdles: identifying potential hurdles and required preconditions. Decision-makers and stakeholders can use the results to derive strategies and measures to further promote a frictionless process.

Voices of Feminism in Monica Ali’s Brick Lane

This paper explores the feminist voices in Monica Ali’s novel Brick Lane, focusing on the character development of Nazneen as she evolves from a compliant, dependent wife into a self-reliant, empowered individual. The analysis highlights how Nazneen’s journey toward financial independence through her sewing work plays a critical role in her personal transformation. The paper also examines the impact of female support networks on her empowerment, alongside the cultural obstacles she encounters as an immigrant woman living in London. Using feminist theory, this study discusses the complex interplay between culture, gender, and identity, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of women’s empowerment in a diverse cultural setting. Brick Lane is presented as a narrative that not only portrays the challenges faced by women in patriarchal societies but also celebrates their strength and capacity to reclaim their autonomy.

The Psychosocial Burden Of Psoriasis: Understanding The Impact On Mental Health And Well-Being

Psoriasis is a chronic, systemic inflammatory skin condition that is distinguished by scaly, red lesions that can be uncomfortable, itchy, and disfiguring. Psoriasis can influence aspects of one’s life beyond distressful physical symptoms, such as mood and quality of life. Patients diagnosed with psoriasis are 39% more likely to suffer from concomitant depression and 31% of patients are diagnosed with anxiety [1]. Due to physical manifestations, individuals with psoriasis are at increased risk of developing issues of poor social perception and body image stress [2]. Research states that psoriasis flare-ups are sometimes directly linked with bouts of anxiety and depression; conversely, physical symptoms of psoriasis may be attributed to psychosocial issues. For example, depression may cause a lack of proper adherence to treatment and lead to exacerbated inflammation. Understanding the psychosocial aspects of psoriasis may provide pertinent clinical information; thereby, allowing seamless integration of psychiatric treatments for the overall treatment protocol for psoriasis. This project delves into understanding how decreased emotional and social well-being can challenge the proper maintenance and treatment of psoriasis. Further, this paper highlights adaptive coping strategies and social support networks that are key in enhancing treatment viability. Oliver C, Robert PD, Daihung D, et al. The Risk of Depression, Anxiety, and Suicidality in Patients With Psoriasis. Arch Dermatol. 2010;146(8) Hepat A, Chakole S, Rannaware A. Psychological Well-Being of Adult Psoriasis Patients: A Narrative Review. Cureus. 2023

Prevalence of Unwanted Loneliness and Associated Factors in People over 65 Years of Age in a Health Area of the Region of Murcia, Spain: HELPeN Project.

Background/Objectives: Population aging poses many challenges to public health, highlighting loneliness and social isolation as severe problems that affect the physical and mental health of older adults. During the COVID-19 pandemic, these became aggravated. The objective of the present study was to assess the prevalence of loneliness and its relationship with social isolation, depression, cognitive deterioration, sleep quality, and the level of physical mobility and functioning of older adults in Health Area 3 of the Region of Murcia. Methods: A descriptive, observational, and cross-sectional study was performed. The inclusion criteria were age ≥ 65, living in Health Area 3 of the Region of Murcia, and not being institutionalized. The following variables were evaluated: sociodemographic variables, loneliness (UCLA scale), social isolation (DUFSS), depression (GDS), cognitive deterioration (Pfeiffer), sleep quality (PSQI), and mobility (Barthel index). A univariate and multivariate regression model was created to examine how the dependent variable was related to the independent variables. Results: A total of 102 older adults participated in the study. Of these, 31.4% perceived unwanted loneliness and 14.7% low social support. The multivariate regression analysis showed that social isolation, geriatric depression, and cognitive deterioration were significant predictors of loneliness. Conclusions: The findings highlight the importance of developing multifaceted interventions that address not only social isolation but also other interrelated factors such as depression, cognitive deterioration, and sleep quality. The strategies should be centered on community programs and support networks. It is fundamental to perform longitudinal studies to better understand the causal relationships between these variables.

Abstract B172: Evidence of behavioral research before and during cancer care in Sub-Saharan Africa: A scoping review

Abstract Introduction: Understanding the behavioral aspects of cancer care in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is crucial for developing effective interventions and improving outcomes, particularly during the peri-treatment phase. Synthesizing knowledge sets the stage for prioritizing cancer-focused research in SSA. Therefore, this scoping review aims to synthesize current knowledge on cancer behavioral research during the peri-treatment phase in SSA, focusing on the behavioral and psychosocial aspects of care. Method: Comprehensive literature searches were conducted across multiple databases and grey literature sources. Studies were selected if they included participants > 18 years old undergoing peri-treatment care, randomized controlled trials, or qualitative/quantitative methodologies focused on behavioral oncology. Only full-text articles published in English were included. Data from the selected studies were systematically extracted and organized. Results: A total of 1,897 cancer patients were included across 18 out of the 24 articles analyzed, with participants aged 8-80 years old. The studies mainly included participants recently diagnosed with cancer or undergoing treatment, covering various cancer types, including prostate, cervical, gastric, liver, and colon cancer, from stage I-III. Only three of the 24 studies referenced theoretical frameworks. Each study identified behavioral factors and outcomes among their sample population. Key findings across the studies underscored significant psychological distress manifested through a spectrum of emotional and psychosocial challenges, including poor social and psychological well-being, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and agoraphobia. Cultural influences, cost considerations, and non-interference of symptoms with day-to-day activities delayed healthcare seeking, especially among women. Despite these challenges, instances of psychological resilience were noted, driven by perceived social support, religiosity, hope, and optimism. The review highlighted the complex interplay between cultural norms, stigma, and health behaviors, with stigma often rooted in cultural beliefs. Spiritual beliefs and practices were central to many participants’ cancer journey, shaping their views on illness, treatment, and recovery. Key factors affecting cancer care include healthcare accessibility, financial limitations, social support networks, healthcare provider attitudes, family involvement in treatment decisions, and emotional support. Conclusion: The findings from this scoping review reveal significant psychological distress and barriers to care among cancer patients in SSA, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive, culturally sensitive interventions that addresses emotional, social, and cultural dimensions. This approach should integrate accessible mental health services, enhance social support networks, and promote culturally appropriate educational programs to reduce stigma and encourage timely healthcare-seeking. Citation Format: Opeyemi O. Bolajoko, Danneta S. Hooks, Motolani Adedipe, Jessica Saintibert, OluwaSeyi Toye, Clifton Sheri, Folakemi T Odedina. Evidence of behavioral research before and during cancer care in Sub-Saharan Africa: A scoping review [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B172.

We are a spider’s web: Friendship in times of mental health crisis

Community responses to those experiencing mental health crisis and distress are important. However, in Australia and many other colonised countries, responses to distress have become highly medicalised, punitive, individual and privatised. Exploring friendship responses to mental health crisis may increase the possibilities for building on community connectedness and local support networks. The work described in this paper aimed to make visible the acts of care, solidarity, friendship and mutuality that friends and members of the community have taken up in response to someone close to them experiencing distress. The work was guided by intentional peer support and narrative practices including re-authoring, collective documentation and outsider witnessing.

Uncovering student profiles. An explainable cluster analysis approach to PISA 2022

Educational data mining (EDM) applied to the wealth of data generated from international large-scale assessments (ILSAs) shows potential for identifying successful educational initiatives. Despite limited research on clustering methods in ILSAs, leveraging these methods to uncover student profiles can help decision-making in designing tailored programs. This study aims to identify and characterize 15-year-old student profiles using PISA 2022 data and reveal insights into the relationship between these profiles and factors such as ICT availability and use, gender, academic performance, and educational expectations. We analyzed PISA 2022 Spanish student data (n = 30,800) with a selection of 74 contextual variables, applying an end-to-end explainable cluster analysis methodology that integrates different machine learning (ML) and explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) techniques. This methodology covered data pre-processing, dimensionality reduction, clustering, and classification to ensure data quality and result explainability. We obtained 16 derived variables, 7 student clusters, and an optimal XGBoost classifier with a global accuracy of 0.8643. Using local and global SHAP values, we interpreted clusters, finding that socio-economic status and ICT availability and use at home are the most important factors differentiating student profiles. Our findings suggest the need to emphasize (i) proper ICT accessibility and use, as well as student support networks to improve academic performance, (ii) gender-specific well-being programs, and (iii) the encouragement of educational expectations tailored to students’ gender and their exposure to higher education. These results pave the way for personalized academic policies and programs through ML-based tools for uncovering student profiles.

THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS INFLUENCING TEACHER ENROLLMENT IN UNDERGRADUATE AND POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMMES IN ZAMBIA

The study focused on the socio-economic factors influencing teacher enrolment in undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in Zambia. It employed Human Capital Theory and a mixed-methods approach. A sequential exploratory research design was adopted for the current study. Data were collected from six provinces and comprised a total of 240 respondents. A questionnaire and interview guide were used to collect data. Qualitative data underwent thematic analysis, while quantitative data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) to generate frequencies and percentages. Multiple regression and T-test were also used to test the hypothesis. The study reveals that socio-economic factors significantly influence teacher enrolment in education programs in Zambia. Key factors such as Economic Affordability (EA) and Availability of Scholarships (AS) are highly influential, as shown by multiple regression analysis indicating significant positive relationships (EA: β=0.597, p=0.016; AS: β=0.418, p=0.004). Other significant factors include Socio-economic Background of Teachers (SBT: β=0.665, p=0.033), Government Support Programmes (GSP: β=0.316, p=0.002), Perception of Career Advancement Opportunities (PCAO: β=0.798, p=0.000), Study Leave Opportunities (SLO: β=0.676, p=0.037), Cultural and Social Norms (CSN: β=0.227, p=0.009), and Family Support and Responsibilities (FSR: β=0.612, p=0.000). Challenges such as financial constraints, lack of government support, and work-life balance were identified as significant barriers to enrolments in postgraduate programmes. Recommendations included: implementing financial support, offering flexible learning options, promoting the benefits of further education, and establishing support networks with mentorship.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0815/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Evaluating Access to Health Care in Mothers and Caregivers of Children under Five Years of Age in Rural Communities of Yucatán, Mexico.

Populations in rural communities have more limited access to health care and attention than urban populations. The present study aimed to evaluate barriers to access to health care in mothers and caregivers of children under five years of age, twelve months after an educational intervention. The study was carried out from February to September 2022, and 472 mothers from eight communities in the state of Yucatán, in the southeast of the United Mexican States, participated. A comparative analysis was carried out on help-seeking times, obstacles to reaching it, and illnesses in children. The results revealed that the main barriers to access to care were long times to decide to seek help, lack of financial resources to pay for the transfer to another health unit, lack of someone to accompany the mother or caregiver when the child needed be transferred, and lack of transportation for the transfer. Disease knowledge remained at different levels in the eight communities; the significant differences occurred in four communities, one specifically for heart defects. It was concluded that, in the rural populations studied, there are barriers to access to health care which have to do with neglected social determinants, such as those related to conditions of gender, income, social support network, and the health system. Access to health care must be universal, so public health interventions should be aimed at reducing the barriers that prevent the population from demanding and using services in a timely manner.

Breastfeeding mothers' self-confidence: A mixed-method study

Objective: To establish the association of the mother's breastfeeding self-efficacy with infant feeding in the first six months of the child's life and identify the mothers’ perception of their confidence to breastfeed. Background: Breastfeeding is a multi-determined process. Many factors contribute to a mother’s ability to exclusively breastfeed until a child reaches six months of age. Among these factors is a mother’s confidence in her abilities to breastfeed her baby, referred to as breastfeeding self-efficacy. Thus, self-efficacy for breastfeeding could be an essential predictor of reducing the risk of early weaning. Study design and methods: This is a mixed-method sequential explanatory study. The short form of the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale was used to determine the level of the mothers' confidence. 158 mothers were surveyed during their postpartum hospital stay, and 128 were included in a follow-up six months after delivery. Additionally, 22 participants were randomly selected for an in-depth interview (qualitative stage). Data were analysed using inferential statistics and thematic content analysis. Results: High levels of breastfeeding efficacy were identified during the hospitalisation and after discharge among all participants. Exclusive breastfeeding was practised among 45.31% of mothers six months after delivery. Return to work was a key factor contributing to early weaning. Family and health professional support during the breastfeeding process were associated as crucial for the duration of exclusive breastfeeding. Discussion: Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months after delivery involves various factors, such as the mother’s confidence in her breastfeeding skills and the specific circumstances she faces while breastfeeding. Thus, through the mixed qualitative and quantitative approaches, it was possible to identify the convergence of self-efficacy scores and the breastfeeding mothers' perception of their confidence and intention to maintain exclusive breastfeeding. Conclusion: High self-efficacy to breastfeed alone was not enough to maintain exclusive breastfeeding. It is necessary to combine self-efficacy and family or health service support and guidance to clarify the mother's doubts about potential difficulties that may appear throughout the breastfeeding process, the maintenance of lactation when she plans to return to work, and the breastfeeding technique. Implication for practice: Applying the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale associated with the breastfeeding mothers' interview during the prenatal and perinatal period facilitates early identification of mothers at risk for early weaning and helps nurses in planning interventions to support the breastfeeding mother and her child in favour of exclusive breastfeeding duration. What is already known about the topic? Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is recommended for the first six months of a child's life; however, many mothers do not follow this recommendation due to multiple barriers such as mental health issues (i.e., postpartum depression or anxiety), educational gaps, physical discomfort like sore nipples, engorgement, return to work, and lack of support. Breastfeeding self-efficacy has been associated with the duration of breastfeeding. What this paper adds Breastfeeding mothers' self-efficacy is essential for stimulating maintenance. Questions 3 (I always feed my baby without using powdered milk as a supplement) and 11 (I always breastfeed my baby on one breast and then switch to the other) of the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale (short form) predicted early weaning risk. Planning nursing care intervention for breastfeeding mothers in their follow-up after birth should include assessing their breastfeeding self-efficacy and factors that could contribute to early weaning, such as returning to work and the lack of a support network.

Socioecologies in shaping migrants and refugee youths’ sexual and reproductive health and rights: a participatory action research study

ObjectiveThis study explores socioecological factors facilitating the sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) experiences of migrant and refugee youth (MRY) in Greater Western Sydney, Australia. MRY may be at higher risk for poorer SRH outcomes due to cultural, linguistic, and systemic barriers.MethodsUsing participatory action research, 17 focus groups were conducted with 87 MRY aged 15–29 from diverse cultural backgrounds. Data were analysed thematically, using socioecological framework.ResultsKey facilitators of MRY's SRHR were identified at the microsystem and exosystem levels, including (1) Peer dynamics and support, with friends serving as trusted confidants and sources of advice; (2) Safety and contraceptive choices, highlighting the importance of access to contraception and STI prevention; and (3) Digital platforms for SRHR information access, with online resources filling knowledge gaps.ConclusionFindings suggest the need for SRHR interventions to leverage peer support networks, expand access to contraceptive options, and develop culturally appropriate digital resources for MRY. Further research is needed to identify and enhance facilitators across all socioecological levels to comprehensively support MRY's SRHR needs.

Rethinking Health Systems Responsiveness in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Validation Study.

Health systems responsiveness (HSR) is the ability of systems to respond to legitimate non-health expectations of the population. The concept of HSR by the World Health Organization (WHO) includes respect for dignity, individual autonomy, confidentiality, prompt attention to care, availability of basic amenities, choice of provider, access to social support networks, and clarity of communication. The WHO tool is applied globally to assess HSR in low, middle, and high-income countries. We have revised the conceptual framework of HSR following a rigorous systematic review and made it specific for low- and middle-income countries (L&MICs). This study is designed to (1) run the Delphi technique to validate the upgraded conceptual framework of HSR, (2) modify and upgrade the WHO measurement tool for assessing HSR in the context of L&MICs, and (3) determine the validity of the upgraded HSR measurement tool by pilot testing it in Pakistan. The Delphi technique will be run by inviting global public health experts to provide suggestions on the domains and subdomains of HSR specific to L&MICs. Cronbach ɑ will be calculated to determine internal consistency among the participants. The upgraded HSR conceptual framework will serve as a beacon to modify the measurement tool by the research team, which will be reviewed by subject experts for refinement. The modified tool will be pilot-tested by administering it to 1128 participants from primary, secondary, and tertiary care hospitals in Rawalpindi district, Pakistan. Additionally, an "observation checklist" of HSR domains and subdomains will be completed to objectively measure the state of HSR across health care facilities. HSR assessment will be further strengthened by incorporating the perspective of hospital managers, service providers, and policy makers (ie, the supply side) as well as community leaders and representatives (ie, the demand side) through qualitative interviews. The study was started in January 2024 and will continue until February 2025. A multidimensional approach will yield significant quantifiable information on HSR from the demand and supply sides of L&MICs. This study will provide a conceptual understanding of HSR and a corresponding measurement tool specific to L&MICs. It will contribute to global public health literature and provide a snapshot of HSR in Rawalpindi district, Pakistan, with concrete action points for policy makers. DERR1-10.2196/59836.

Evaluation of Indigenous Cultural Practices that Affect Resistance of the Family Unit in Sub-Saharan Africa

The objective of this study was to assess the impact of indigenous cultural practices on the resilience of families in Sub-Saharan Africa. In addition to analyzing the degradation of these behaviors and the increase in single parenthood in the region, the objective was to investigate how these cultural traditions contribute to families’ capacity to cope with and recover from hardship. This study offers practical suggestions for incorporating indigenous values into contemporary family assistance programs. Utilizing a qualitative research methodology, this study used semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and participant observations with a sample of 120 single parents from four local governments in Nigeria to obtain data. The reoccurring themes identified through thematic analysis include the degradation of traditional values, the transition towards single parenthood, and the socio-economic elements that influence family constructions in contemporary African societies. The present study enhances academic research by emphasizing the pivotal significance of indigenous cultural practices in promoting resilience. This study provides valuable perspectives on the integration of ancient communal support networks and values into modern interventions designed to enhance family resilience. Furthermore, the research underscores the significance of safeguarding these cultural traditions in response to modernization and socio-economic transformations, hence broadening the discussion on cultural conservation and adjustment in African communities. Keywords: Indigenous Traditions, Cultural practices, Family Resilience, Societal Problems

Experiences of Program Heads in Supervising Teachers: A Phenomenological Study

The supervision of teachers is essential for ensuring effective teaching methods, ongoing professional growth, and student success. This study explored the experiences of program heads in supervising teachers. It was conducted in a local college in Tangub City, Misamis Occidental. The phenomenological design was used in the study. Eleven program heads served as the participants selected through the purposive sampling technique. The Interview Guide was used as the research instrument. Moustakas’ transcendental phenomenology of data analysis was utilized to analyze the data gathered. Results revealed the following main themes: the critical role of supervision in advancing teacher development and educational excellence, mutual learning and growth, the role of program heads in teacher supervision, overcoming challenges in teacher supervision, and effective communication strategies. Supervision improves teaching and learning quality, which supports professional development. The complex nature of supervisory roles requires adaptive strategies and strong support networks. It is recommended for program heads and teachers to establish open communication to help address the challenges encountered during supervision.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Canadian performing and creative artists: An interpretive descriptive study using the social-ecological model.

Public health restrictions during the Coronavirus-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Canada have substantially reduced the work and income of performing and creative artists. We aimed to understand how factors at the public policy, community, organizational, interpersonal and individual levels affected Canadian performing and creative artists' health and livelihood during the pandemic. We interviewed 14 creative and performing artists from an academic hospital-based healthcare center in Toronto, Canada. In addition, we conducted secondary data analysis on an existing set of 17 transcribed interviews from a quality improvement study that included relevant information to answer the present study's research question. We applied an interpretive descriptive approach to our qualitative inquiry and used the social-ecological model (SEM) as our analytic framework. We identified factors at all levels of the SEM that tended to synergistically affect the health and livelihood of artists during the COVID-19 pandemic. Public health restrictions and government financial assistance programs have downstream effects on other levels. During the pandemic, many artists sensed an overwhelming loss of community, financial instability, and limited access to healthcare; which in turn affected their health. For those who accessed financial assistance programs, the stability of income afforded time for rest without the stress of food insecurity or housing instability. Use of the SEM as an analytic framework reflects the multidirectional intricacy and dynamic interplay among factors operating within and across all five levels, bringing to light potential areas of improvement at various levels to strengthen resilience and reduce risk factors associated with artists' health and healthcare access. Findings also accentuated the fragility of precarious work that inundates the performing arts industry, which emphasizes the need for interventions and policies to address this issue. Such interventions might include financial support programs for artists, access to affordable healthcare services, and efforts to strengthen social support networks within the arts community.

Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy in pregnancy: a narrative review.

Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) poses unique challenges for women during pregnancy, necessitating comprehensive care and tailored management strategies. The present narrative review aims to examine the unique challenges and management strategies required for women with LGMD during pregnancy. With over 30 genetic subtypes identified and the potential for additional discoveries through advanced diagnostic techniques, preconception counseling plays a crucial role in informing prospective parents about reproductive risks and available options. Baseline assessments, including cardiac and pulmonary evaluations, are essential to guide antenatal care, alongside genetic testing for precise diagnosis and counseling. Optimizing maternal health through respiratory exercises, cardiac monitoring, and individualized exercise and nutrition plans is paramount to avoid potential complications. During pregnancy, close monitoring of maternal and fetal well-being is important, with collaborative care between obstetricians and specialists. An individualized approach to delivery mode considering factors such as muscle strength, pelvic size, and fetal presentation is crucial. While vaginal delivery has been proven to be possible, the need for an emergency cesarean delivery should always be kept in mind. Regional anesthesia is preferred, with proactive planning for potential respiratory support. Bupivacaine has been shown to be effective with epidural catheters that may be used for prolonged relief with opioids like morphine and fentanyl, while also evaluating the patients' respiratory function. Postpartum considerations include pain management, mobility support, breastfeeding assistance, and emotional support. Early mobilization and tailored physiotherapy regimens may promote optimal recovery, while comprehensive breastfeeding guidance is needed to address challenges related to muscle weakness. Access to mental health resources and support networks is essential to helping individuals cope with the emotional demands of parenthood alongside managing LGMD. By addressing the unique needs of pregnant individuals with LGMD, healthcare providers can optimize maternal and fetal outcomes while supporting individuals in their journey to parenthood.

Supporting Educators: Exploring the Role of Counseling Services in Enhancing Teachers’ Emotional Wellbeing in Selected Schools in Kumasi Metro

This study, which is based on a post-positivist perspective, uses statistical methods to investigate the relationship between counseling support networks and teachers' emotional well-being. The major research goal was to evaluate the influence of counseling services on teachers' emotional well-being and to determine the incidence of emotional distress and burnout among teachers. A descriptive survey approach was used to obtain data from 140 teachers selected from the Krejcie and Morgan table. A cross-sectional survey was used to assess teachers' emotional states as well as the impact of counseling services at a given moment. Convenience sampling enabled a diversified sample by gender, age, experience, and teaching location. A standardized questionnaire was used to collect data on demographics, emotional well-being, burnout, and the impact of counseling networks. The findings revealed an alarming degree of emotional suffering among teachers, with 75% having poor emotional well-being and 70% feeling burnout. The study demonstrated a substantial positive association (r = 0.78, p < 0.01) between access to counseling services and enhanced emotional well-being. These findings highlight the crucial need for schools to prioritize emotional support for teachers, stressing counseling's positive role in improving educators' well-being and overall effectiveness in the classroom.

Opinion of Women on Possession of Land and Risk Handling Capacity

Abstract: This study shows that and ownership affects women's risk management abilities. This study was conducted in the two upazilas (Sub-districts) namely Delduar, and Nagorpur of Tangail district in Bangladesh. In this study, data were collected during the period of February 2024 to March 2024 from the studies areas. We found a favorable correlation between women's land ownership and risk management. Larger landholding women were more confident and competent in managing financial, environmental, and social hazards. This higher risk handling capability is due to land assets' financial stability, the ability to invest in risk-reducing technology or practices, and community bargaining power. This study shows that property ownership gives women a greater buffer against economic uncertainty and allows them to take proactive risk mitigation strategies. Data also shows that landowner women are more likely to have diverse income sources, minimizing their market susceptibility. They also use support networks and community risk management efforts more. The study concludes that land ownership improves women's risk management. Women acquire economic stability and risk management leverage by obtaining land holdings. This shows that land access regulations might boost women's resilience and risk management. Future study should examine how land ownership affects risk management and how to give disadvantaged women land access.

Exploring medication self-management in polypharmacy: a qualitative systematic review of patients and healthcare providers perspectives.

Purpose: Polypharmacy presents many challenges to patient medication self-management. This study aims to explore the self-management processes of medication in polypharmacy from the perspectives of both patients and healthcare providers, which can help identify barriers and facilitators to effective management. Methods: A systematic review of qualitative studies was performed by searching seven databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and MEDLINE, from their establishment until August 2024. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool was employed to evaluate the quality of the studies included. The extracted data were then analysed thematically and integrated into The Taxonomy of Everyday Self-management Strategies (TEDSS) framework. Results: A total of 16 studies were included, involving 403 patients and 119 healthcare providers. Patient management measures were mapped into TEDSS framework, including categories such as medical management, support-oriented domains, and emotional and role management. Conclusion: Enhancing patients' proactive health awareness, improving medication literacy, balancing lifestyle adjustments with medication therapy, dynamically reviewing and optimizing medications, strengthening patients' social support networks, and helping patients integrate medication management into their daily life are the key elements that can effectively assist patients in self-managing their medications. Future interventions to improve patient medication self-management ability should be designed for these issues. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42024524742.

Health-seeking behaviours of the families with older adults during the COVID-19 epidemic in rural China: a qualitative inquiry from the perspective of migration and social support networks

IntroductionHealth behaviours during a public health crisis for families with vulnerable ageing relatives are worth studying. After the Chinese government’s zero-tolerance policy on COVID-19 ended at the close of 2022,...