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The article discusses a project at St. John Fisher University's Lavery Library to update LibGuides, focusing on reorganizing the homepage for improved usability. It discusses that the project involved a two-phased approach, first, creating new subject categories based on academic programs, and second, a participatory card sort activity to categorize remaining guides, highlighting challenges and techniques used for successful implementation.

The 2022 cohort of CLIR postdoctoral fellows recently met virtually to discuss their inquiry group project, a collaborative learning opportunity that allows fellows to refine their research and project management skills. The group is currently exploring the question of what it means to engage in equitable community-based research, with each fellow producing a review or "dispatch" reflecting on a community-oriented research project. The fellows discussed various aspects of their research process, including the definition of "community," strategies for highlighting diverse voices, and addressing tensions between different stakeholders. The exploration of equitable community-based research is important for filling research gaps, promoting inclusivity, and mitigating historical biases. The group anticipates collaborating on an introduction to the project that could influence future research efforts. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Worldwide, women migrant domestic workers (WMDWs) occupy a weak position in the global economy due to intersections of gender, race, and global economic inequalities. Lebanon hosts more than 250,000 WMDWs who are recruited and employed through the infamous Kafala system that binds a worker to one employer. With Lebanon's economic crisis, a large number of WMDWs are currently working as freelancers whereby giving and receiving support from other workers plays a crucial role in their adaptation and economic survival. This study is a component of an international evaluation of the Work in Freedom Project carried out by the International Labour Organization. It focuses on Lebanon and aims to assess the impact of the project on the ability of WMDWs in Lebanon to maintain viable social networks and organize collectively. Its main objective is to investigate the different ways in which WMDWs have maintained social networks and engaged in collective organizing efforts (at the individual, meso- and macro-levels), to improve their lives and to ensure non-exploitative work conditions. Methods: The study utilized a qualitative participatory action research methodology (PAR) integrating feminist approaches that focus on agency and choice. Nine WMDWs from Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Ethiopia, the Philippines, and Kenya were recruited through the Anti-Racism Movement in Lebanon. They underwent training as co-researchers and participated actively in the design and conduct of the qualitative study. The research question and interview guide were co-designed by the academic and coresearchers. The final research question that resulted from the participatory process is: "How do women migrant workers try to improve their situation, whether through working alone or working together, to help themselves and other women from their nationality or different nationalities?" Each coresearchers conducted 2-4 in-depth interviews with WMDWs (total of 24 interviews) and transcribed the data. Most of the transcripts were translated to English by a professional translation firm. This enabled data analysis to be conducted by both the academic researchers (in English) and co-researchers (in the original language of the interview). Data analysis was carried out through standard qualitative methods of open coding followed by grouping the codes into broader categories and conducting thematic analysis. Results: The analysis uncovered six main themes, with each consisting of a few subthemes. The theme on social networks and collective organizing includes a subtheme on helping, the term coined by co-researchers and explicitly stated in the research question. Although the social networks that bind WMDWs within their own communities and across national boundaries carry limited if any financial resources, they are instrumental during times of collective crisis. The social networks that WMDWs invest in provide them with tangible resources like food, shelter, and medicine, when needed, but also information and advice. An important form of advice that WMDWs provide each other is about how to manage worker-employer relationship and demand rights. The study uncovered the strategies through which WMDWs provide help to each other whereby the nature of the help needed, and the situation determine whether direct help can be provided or whether a referral to the embassy or an NGO would be the course of action to take. Helping is altruistic and participants who provided support to others in need expressed a sense of moral gratification. The study also showed that, among the select group of participants, helping is an activity that transcends national identity. These findings interrogate the focus on WMDWs as bounded beings whose experiences can only be understood through the employer-worker prism. Instead, the findings expand the discourse on WMDWs in the Arab region to highlight multidimensional relationalities within and across their national group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent study conducted in Herston, Australia focused on the development of an outcome measure for severe hand burn injuries in occupational therapy. The research emphasized the importance of incorporating patients' perspectives into clinical care and healthcare decisions. The study utilized Participatory Action Research to co-design the outcome measure with input from allied health professionals, individuals with hand burn injuries, and researchers. Further testing is needed to determine the psychometric properties of the newly developed outcome measure. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Montana State University focused on developing a culturally grounded intervention to address substance use disorders among tribal members from a rural American Indian reservation. The Indigenous Recovery Planning (IRP) intervention, consisting of six weekly sessions, aimed to enhance Native identity, address culturally relevant risk factors, and build on strengths within the community. While the feasibility pilot study showed promising results, further research and discussions on future directions and limitations are needed. This research, published in Clinical Psychological Science, highlights the importance of community-engaged approaches in addressing substance use in Native communities. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Trent University explores the challenges of conducting community-based participatory research (CBPR) with marginalized immigrant communities during times of crisis, focusing on immigrant homecare workers in Manitoba, Canada, disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. The research aims to contribute to migrant justice organizing by examining the workers' experiences and addressing the exclusion of these communities from government pandemic policy responses. The study highlights the importance of reflexive migrant justice research approaches and intersectional solidarity with social justice community partners in disrupting dominant academic research processes. For more information, the full article is available in Studies in Social Justice, published by Brock University. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Texas A&M University conducted a study in the Greater Fifth Ward (GFW) neighborhood in Northeast Houston, Texas, known for industrial contamination and a cancer cluster. The study used community-based participatory research (CBPR) to assess self-rated health in the environmental justice (EJ) community. Findings showed that EJ communities face higher mental health scores but lower physical health scores compared to national averages, with Black/African American residents having lower mental health scores than their White counterparts. The study suggests targeted interventions to improve the health of residents in burdened neighborhoods. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Illinois focused on using Photovoice as a pedagogical tool in public health education. The research aimed to engage graduate students as co-researcher-participants in a Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) course. The study highlighted the importance of experiential learning in preparing future public health professionals to address health inequities and emphasized the value of Photovoice in understanding community perspectives and promoting community-led solutions. The findings from the study identified barriers and facilitators to engaging in Photovoice and provided recommendations for using it effectively in public health education. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses collaborative approaches in speech-language pathology (SLP) to integrate the experiences of clients and stakeholders in decision-making processes. The research conducted at Newcastle University explores the diverse collaborative approaches used in SLP practice, highlighting the importance of stakeholder involvement and reporting. The study emphasizes valuing and respecting individuals with communication and swallowing difficulties, contributing to person-centered care in SLP. Researchers and clinicians can use this information to strengthen the implementation of collaborative approaches in healthcare services. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Michigan examined the impact of teacher behaviors, air change rates, and portable air purifiers on indoor air quality in naturally ventilated schools. The research found that many schools, especially those in environmental justice communities, face challenges with poor indoor air quality due to inadequate ventilation and aging mechanical systems. The study highlighted the importance of monitoring indoor air quality, using air purifiers, enhancing filtration, and increasing ventilation to support and maintain healthy indoor environments in schools. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the Department of Sport Science and Sport explores the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, such as single mothers, unemployed women, and women with low educational attainment, in engaging in physical activity. The researchers emphasize the importance of evaluating this issue from a human rights perspective to ensure that disadvantaged women have the opportunity to participate in physical activity. The study discusses the BIG project, which aims to address these challenges by providing tailored exercise courses and social activities for disadvantaged women. The researchers highlight the need for culturally sensitive offerings and improved accessibility to existing physical activity options. The study concludes that using a human rights-based approach can help identify shortcomings in promoting physical activity among disadvantaged women. The research was funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research and the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Funds. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have conducted a study on pharmacogenomics in the Hmong population in California. The study aimed to validate previous findings that showed significant differences in allele frequencies for key Single Nucleotide Variations (SNVs) between Hmong and East Asians. The results of the study confirmed these differences and highlighted the importance of considering them when prescribing medications for individuals who identify as Hmong. The research was conducted in collaboration with the Hmong community and utilized a community-based participatory research approach. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Boston Medical Center have presented new data on the opioid crisis. They discuss the use of Photovoice, a research method that combines photography with focus group discussions to document community strengths and concerns and inform policymakers. The researchers provide a Photovoice protocol to improve the methodological rigor of incorporating Photovoice into randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and to contextualize the landscape for the HEALing Communities Study, a multi-million dollar investment aimed at reducing opioid overdose deaths in 67 communities across four states. The protocol offers ethical and methodological tools for enhancing community engagement, communication campaigns, and evidence-based practice selection and implementation. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Temple University and Hunter College highlights the importance of building trust in underserved racial/ethnic minority communities for successful cancer awareness initiatives. The study focused on reducing cancer health disparities through community engagement and capacity building. The researchers employed community-based strategies to recruit a diverse cohort of participants, including Black, Asian, and Hispanic individuals with limited education and English proficiency. By prioritizing trust-building and open communication, the researchers successfully engaged underserved communities and laid the groundwork for targeted cancer prevention initiatives. The study emphasizes that trust is a dynamic and multi-dimensional process that is crucial for the success and sustainability of community-based partnerships. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the Medical College of Wisconsin highlights the disparities in prostate cancer incidence and mortality rates among Black individuals in Wisconsin. The study emphasizes the need for a transdisciplinary approach to address these disparities, bringing together community and academic expertise to develop a shared understanding of the causes and potential solutions. The research team engaged in a 16-month process that involved reviewing available data, conducting surveys and interviews, and seeking input from various stakeholders. The final recommendations include patient navigation, awareness campaigns, genetic risk education, and expanding support offerings for Black men with prostate cancer. The study concludes that this transdisciplinary approach is effective in generating solutions to complex problems and calls for collaborative efforts in implementing these solutions. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in the Psychology & Psychiatry Journal discusses the development of the Respect4all program, which aims to address racial and intersectional microaggressions and promote antiracism strategies. The program was created through a community-based participatory action research approach, involving psychologists, pediatricians, education specialists, and trainees. The program consists of a 9-hour skill-building program and was developed in collaboration with key stakeholders to ensure its empirical support and responsiveness to the needs of a diverse group. The research highlights the importance of developing antiracist skill-building programs and provides a model for psychologists to work with stakeholders to address their concerns. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of Oregon discusses the challenges and potential of integrating biological and prevention sciences in personalized medicine. While personalized approaches for physical health conditions have advanced, the application of personalized medicine to emotional and behavioral health has lagged behind. The report emphasizes the importance of integrating biological and prevention sciences to identify risk and protective mechanisms and inform prevention and intervention services. The recommendations are grounded in Community-Based Participatory Research approaches and aim to center equity in future research to improve the well-being of those at risk for emotional and behavioral problems. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa, discusses the development of a parallel-engaged pedagogy of care in the context of an architectural design studio at a postcolonial, post-Apartheid, and post-'Fees must Fall' protests South African university. The pedagogy, which was developed through participatory action research over five years, aims to build a more conscious, critical, and careful design practice in both students and educators. The research found that the parallel-engaged pedagogy of care supports students in becoming more conscious, critical, and careful in their design practices, validating diverse lived experiences as generative for design and important for social justice and transformative equity. This research contributes to the global shift towards more transformative pedagogies that address student diversity and decoloniality. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Texas Austin examined the use of substance abuse approaches among peer support specialists in community mental health early psychosis programs. The study found that substance use is common among adolescents and young adults experiencing early psychosis, and that coordinated specialty care (CSC) programs, which include peer support specialists, are increasingly being used to support individuals in their recovery. The researchers conducted virtual interviews with 20 CSC peer support specialists to gain insight into their practices. The study was funded by the NIH National Institute of Mental Health and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

University of Pennsylvania researchers have collaborated with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) to establish legal and ethical processes for routine data sharing. Through participatory research methods, NCDHHS developed a data strategy, created a data sharing guidebook, staffed their Data Office, and implemented a new legal framework. This collaborative approach successfully established enterprise-wide data governance and a legal framework to support data-driven policymaking and improve health outcomes for residents. The research presents a replicable framework for developing and implementing processes to support intradepartmental data access, linkage, and use. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of Wollongong in Australia discusses the use of participatory action research (PAR) to engage culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities in HPV vaccination programs. The researchers partnered with a local Multicultural Health Service to understand how the largest CALD group in their region engages with their local school and HPV vaccination program. Through a participatory research method called World Cafe, they explored the level of awareness and engagement within the community and shared a co-designed information website to address their questions. The study reflects on the outcomes and lessons learned from using PAR to engage a priority CALD community around HPV vaccination. [Extracted from the article]

A new study on behavioral medicine conducted by researchers at the University of South Carolina explores the use of social marketing in community-wide physical activity programs. The study aimed to describe and evaluate the implementation of social marketing strategies, identify targeted populations, assess the use of community-based participatory research (CBPR) frameworks, evaluate retention rates, and identify gaps in the literature. The review found that approximately 56% of the studies reported a positive impact on physical activity, and most studies aligned with the principles of social marketing. However, there were gaps in the literature regarding fully-developed CBPR frameworks, reach among underserved communities, randomized designs, and the use of theory. The study highlights successful interventions and opportunities for refining community-wide interventions using social marketing strategies. [Extracted from the article]

The article details research from Tallinn University on the implementation of support groups for informal caregivers of individuals with dementia through participatory action research. Topics discussed include the effectiveness and informal nature of support groups, the collaborative process of launching 17 support groups across Estonia, and the recommendation to apply similar approaches in other countries lacking such support systems.

A new report from the University of Kentucky explores the connection between gendered-racial identity and sacredness among 11 nonbinary Black womxn (NBBW) in the US. The research, conducted by the C.I.R.C.L.E. (Collective Infiltrating Research to Center Community, Liberation, and Embodiment), used qualitative interviews to examine participants' perspectives on being a nonbinary Black womxn as sacred. The analysis revealed two themes: Origins of Sacred Powers and Manifestations of Sacred Powers, with four subthemes under the latter. The findings highlight the importance of African spirituality, ancestral power, and gendered-racial identity in the participants' experiences. The research has implications for future studies and clinical practice regarding spiritual beliefs, practices, and identities of NBBW. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam have conducted a study on Participatory Action Research (PAR) and the role of facilitators in supporting mutual learning and shared decision-making. The study analyzed reflection forms from three PAR projects and identified key factors for successful facilitation, including well-prepared sessions, creating a safe and positive atmosphere, and encouraging co-researchers to take the lead. The research provides valuable insights for facilitators collaborating with co-researchers in PAR projects. The full article can be accessed for free on the Health Research Policy and Systems website. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the College of Medicine and Science in Rochester, Minnesota have conducted a qualitative study on pediatric patient experiences of racism in healthcare settings. The study involved youth between the ages of 11 and 18 who self-identified as a person of color, Latinx, or Indigenous and had experienced race-related prejudice and discrimination. The findings revealed racism-related experiences in healthcare settings and provided recommendations for supporting pediatric patients experiencing racism. The research suggests the need for safer and more supportive healthcare spaces for youth facing racism. The study was supported by the NIH National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on the School Participatory Action Research Collaborative (SPARC), which engages students in research projects that uncover and address aspects of school culture through evidence-based findings. Topics include the impact of dress codes, student wellness in scheduling, and diversity in curricula, highlighting how SPARC has fostered over 120 projects aimed at improving school communities and influencing policy changes.

A recent report from the University of Alberta highlights the occupational health and safety (OHS) challenges faced by new immigrant workers in Canada. These challenges include communication barriers, limited training, scarce resources, and workplace discrimination. To address these issues, the researchers conducted participatory action research with nine immigrant workers, who identified problems, discussed education, and decided on actions. The research resulted in the development of five OHS learning modules that are tailored to equip new immigrant workers with the knowledge and confidence needed to enhance their OHS practices. The modules emphasize the significance of OHS, psychological risks, Canadian workplace norms, communication, and vital resources, and are crafted with cultural sensitivity and lived expertise. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University of Sydney in Australia explored the impact of trauma on children in out-of-home care and the importance of emotional regulation for their caregivers. The research found that trauma can continue to affect children even when they are in a safe environment. The study emphasized the need for trauma-informed and therapeutic models of care to support emotional regulation and create a secure experience for the child. The research involved participatory action research with caseworkers, who went through a three-phase process to acknowledge trauma, become aware of their own emotional capacity, and apply coregulation strategies. The study concluded that organizations promoting trauma awareness and relational safety can create a supportive environment for caseworkers and facilitate coregulation between caregivers and children. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University of Alberta aims to develop evidence-based policy and practice recommendations for pregnant, postpartum, and parenting Canadian high-performance athletes. The research utilized a community-based participatory research approach, involving a rapid review of existing sport policy and extensive consultation with key sport stakeholders. The study resulted in the development of seven evidence-based recommendations for Sport Canada decision-makers, including the establishment of support cards for pregnant and parenting athletes, the creation of funding sources for facilities and training during the first year of an infant's life, and increased visibility and research on high-performance sport participation during and after pregnancy. The collaborative processes employed in this research can serve as a model for sports organizations to support these athletes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the University of Adelaide discusses research on oral health care for First Nations Kidney Warriors in South Australia. The study highlights the challenges faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living with kidney disease, including limited access to culturally safe and affordable oral health care. The research involved a collaborative approach, with input from dental hygienists, kidney health care professionals, an Aboriginal hostel accommodation manager, and researchers. The findings of the study have informed improvements in oral health care services and education programs, providing a working example of how to decolonize health services. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, has made new findings in the field of botany. The study focuses on the classification of the fern family Gleicheniaceae and describes the discovery of a new genus, Sticheropsis, which has been segregated from Sticherus. The researchers provide a new taxonomic treatment of Gleicheniaceae, including an identification key to all eight genera, descriptions of the genera, and an overview of the family's morphology. The study concludes by recognizing 149 species and proposing six new combinations within the family. This research has been peer-reviewed and can be accessed through the Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the University of California Berkeley focuses on the experiences of transgender Latinas (translatinas) facing housing instability in San Francisco. The study used a participatory action research approach and found that translatinas experience unique forms of discrimination related to their Latinidad, transness, unauthorized migrant status, and visibility within their communities. The participants recommended an intersectional approach to housing and social services that takes into account the complexity of their multiple identities. The study highlights the need for translatina-specific funding and programs, increased trans leadership in housing and social service organizations, and greater language and legal support for trans migrants. [Extracted from the article]

University Hospital researchers conducted a study to develop a financial and health insurance toolkit for emerging adults with type 1 diabetes. The study utilized a community-based participatory action research approach, involving a diverse group of emerging adults with type 1 diabetes and content experts. Through online meetings, key themes emerged for tailoring the toolkit, including empowerment, self-advocacy, addressing disparities in care, and demystifying Medicaid stigma. The researchers successfully partnered with the community to develop a toolkit that meets the needs of racially and ethnically diverse and Medicaid-insured emerging adults with type 1 diabetes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Mayo Clinic examined the impact of the ongoing opioid misuse epidemic on American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities, particularly AI/AN women. The study aimed to develop a culturally tailored, moderated, private Facebook group intervention to support Minnesotan AI/AN women in medically assisted recovery from opioid use disorder (OUD). The beta-test of the intervention involved 10 AI/AN women, and the results indicated that the Facebook platform and study procedures generally worked as intended, with high acceptability and positive feedback from participants. The study provides valuable insights to inform refinements before conducting a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) to further assess the feasibility, acceptability, and potential efficacy of the intervention. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California, focused on developing a virtual reality (VR) hypertension reduction program in collaboration with African American church leaders. The research aimed to address the disproportionate impact of cardiovascular disease and hypertension on African Americans. The study utilized a community-based participatory research approach, incorporating feedback from church congregation members to develop the VR program. The research highlighted the importance of involving external stakeholders in the research process to create a meaningful health intervention using new technology tailored to the church members. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Prince of Songkla University in Thailand explored the integration of the sufficiency economy philosophy (SEP) and participatory action research (PAR) approach to promote self-care for stroke prevention in selected communities. The study involved villagers with medium to high stroke risk from two provinces in southern Thailand. The participants engaged in an eight-month program that focused on health behaviors such as dietary control, regular exercise, stress relief, and smoking and alcohol cessation. The results showed significant reductions in body weight, blood pressure, fasting blood sugar, and blood lipids, indicating the effectiveness of the SEP-PAR approach in controlling stroke risk factors. The study suggests the importance of motivation for self-care and calls for longer follow-up studies with larger populations. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences in Tehran, Iran, discusses the importance of family-centered care (FCC) in the pediatric rehabilitation ward. The study aimed to improve FCC by addressing the limited knowledge of staff and families about its benefits. The research involved 16 rehabilitation staff and 48 mothers, who participated in interviews and focus group discussions. The findings suggest that continuous education and collaboration between families and staff can enhance FCC in the pediatric rehabilitation ward. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from the University of Parma in Italy explores the potential of organic agriculture and agroecology in building sustainable food systems. The researchers conducted a case study of an organic and agroecological group of producers in the Pampa Region of Argentina, using a participatory action research approach. They employed three interconnected methodologies: sustainability assessment, participatory value chain development, and stakeholder analysis. The study found that the participatory assessment was useful in evaluating the current situation of the group and identifying the requirements for upscaling the system. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of Aberdeen discusses the use of participatory action research (PAR) to empower marginalized individuals and communities by involving them in the research process. The researchers aimed to examine food systems and ideas about "just food system transitions" in Brazil, Sierra Leone, the United Kingdom, and Zambia. However, they found that their experience fell short of their expectations due to the structures of contemporary neoliberal academia, which hindered the realization of the PAR ideals. The research was supported by the British Academy and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the concept of community-based participatory research (CBPR) and its benefits in improving community health and advancing health equity. The researchers highlight three studies conducted in historically marginalized communities in the United States, Brazil, and France to demonstrate how CBPR can lead to high-quality research that informs context-appropriate policies and programs. The article emphasizes the importance of engaging with community members throughout the research process to increase participation, build local capacity, and improve data collection and quality. The researchers recommend that researchers consistently involve community members in all phases of research to inform future applied research and practice. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Twente in the Netherlands explored the perspectives of different stakeholder groups on how to improve tinnitus research and treatment. The study used a participatory action research approach and involved interviews with tinnitus patients, researchers, medical specialists, and a general practitioner. The findings identified suggested adaptations for both research and treatment, including ethical patient involvement, prioritizing cure versus coping research, and increasing interdisciplinarity. The study concluded that improving communication between stakeholders, increasing patient involvement, and reducing barriers to psychological treatment are key actions for improving tinnitus research and treatment practices. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the Department of Nursing in Grand Rapids, Michigan, aimed to capture the perspectives of men in under-resourced and racially/ethnically diverse neighborhoods on the prevalence of depression and anxiety. The study utilized a community-based participatory research approach, conducting focus groups with 50 Black, Hispanic, and White men aged 23-83 years. The findings were used to develop a resident-driven solution, which involved training five male, lay mental health ambassadors. The research concluded that community-based participatory research is an effective method for empowering communities to address healthcare issues. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at University College Cork explores the use of Participatory Action Research (PAR) and Work-Based Learning Groups (WBLGs) to improve breastfeeding practices in Irish healthcare settings. The study involved interdisciplinary healthcare professionals who participated in monthly WBLGs over a period of nine months. Through critical reflection and experiential learning, participants identified challenges and opportunities in breastfeeding support, leading to the development of actionable themes and strategies for improvement. The study highlights the potential of WBLGs and PAR to enhance healthcare professionals' understanding and approach to breastfeeding support, with implications for future practice and policy development in maternal and child health. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from Walailak University in Thailand explored the association between thalassemia, hemoglobinopathies, vitamin D levels, and lipid profile in adults. The study involved 615 participants from the southern Thai population and utilized hemoglobin analysis and polymerase chain reaction-based methods to diagnose thalassemia and hemoglobinopathies. The findings revealed that individuals with thalassemia had a significantly lower frequency of lipid-lowering drug use and lower total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels compared to those without thalassemia. Additionally, the study found a high prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in carriers of thalassemia and/or hemoglobinopathies. However, the researchers noted that further investigation with a larger sample size is needed to confirm these associations, particularly in countries with a high prevalence of thalassemia. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Albuquerque Area Southwest Tribal Epidemiology Center aimed to improve colorectal cancer (CRC) screening rates among American Indian (AI) communities in New Mexico. The study utilized participatory action research and engaged providers and community members through focus groups and listening sessions. The research found that the most supported strategies for increasing CRC screening included one-on-one education, reminders, small media, and interventions that reduced structural barriers. The study contributes to the limited literature on implementation research at tribal healthcare facilities and informs the selection of specific strategies to promote CRC screening in AI communities. [Extracted from the article]

A recent psychology study conducted at the University of South Alabama explores the cultural disconnect between investigators and prevention specialists and individuals who own and use firearms. The study, called Project GRIP, utilized the principles of Participatory Action Research (PAR) to partner with firearm owners in injury prevention research. The researchers emphasize the importance of incorporating the perspectives of firearm owners into the research literature to develop more effective injury and mortality prevention strategies. The study's findings are published in Psychological Reports. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses a study conducted in India that aimed to address the mental health challenges faced by youth living with HIV (YLHIV). The study utilized a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach, which involved YLHIV actively participating in adapting and implementing a culturally responsive mental health screening program. The involvement of youth investigators in the research process not only improved data collection but also enhanced their own knowledge, self-confidence, and research skills. The study serves as an illustrative model of CBPR in mental health research among YLHIV, emphasizing the importance of interactive training, continuous feedback mechanisms, and respectful youth engagement in fostering impactful research that can inform tailored sustainable interventions. [Extracted from the article]

A recent scoping review conducted by researchers at Harbin Medical University in China explored the application of the Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) model in the field of autism research. The study found that CBPR is a promising and effective research model for enhancing skills and healthcare for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The researchers emphasized the importance of using CBPR to build partnerships with communities and stakeholders in order to design and implement health promotion programs. This research has been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights for future ASD research. [Extracted from the article]