Search Results (3,758)

Veterinarians are routinely exposed to occupational infectious hazards at the human–animal interface, making vaccination an important preventive measure within a One Health framework. However, evidence on vaccination coverage and immunization practices in this professional group remains limited. This study assessed self-reported vaccination coverage, attitudes toward vaccination, perceived barriers, and training needs among registered veterinarians in Málaga, Spain. A cross-sectional anonymous survey was distributed to all actively practicing veterinarians registered with the Official Veterinary Association of Málaga. The questionnaire collected sociodemographic and professional information, self-reported vaccination status, attitudes toward vaccination, and perceived training needs. A total of 164 veterinarians participated (response rate: 15.2%). Given the voluntary nature of participation, findings should be interpreted as descriptive. Vaccination coverage was low for several vaccines relevant to occupational or adult immunization, including seasonal influenza (21.3%), rabies (23.2%), and tetanus–diphtheria–pertussis boosters (47.3%). Nearly half of respondents (49.1%) were uncertain about their hepatitis B vaccination status. In contrast, COVID-19 vaccination uptake was high (96.9% received at least one dose). Although most participants considered vaccination highly important, self-reported coverage remained limited for several recommended vaccines. Qualitative responses identified barriers related to access to vaccination, information, and the absence of structured occupational vaccination programmes. Among the surveyed veterinarians in Málaga, these findings support the need for clearer occupational vaccination recommendations, improved access to immunization services, and enhanced vaccinology training. Such measures could strengthen occupational health protection and support One Health prevention strategies at the human–animal interface. Full article

Simulation-based learning (SBL) is recognized as a transformative methodology in teacher education, yet the social–emotional processes through which pre- and in-service teachers navigate role dissonance remain underexplored. Drawing on the Social–Emotional Learning (SEL) framework proposed by CASEL, this study conceptualizes simulation as a cyclical SEL loop across three phases, pre-briefing, simulation, and debriefing, each activating distinct competencies: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. This qualitative phenomenological inquiry examines the lived social–emotional experiences of pre- and in-service teachers participating in The School of Valtance, a large-scale, multi-role international simulation embedded in a postgraduate teacher qualification program. Participants from 9 international faculties were deliberately assigned to roles, such as pedagogue, head of studies, and parent, divergent from their professional backgrounds, generating the cognitive–emotional disruption known as the “valley of despair”. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, reflective journals, and facilitator field notes across all three simulation phases and subjected to thematic analysis. The findings reveal that role dissonance disrupts participants’ emotional equilibrium, activating self-awareness and social awareness competencies that precede and enable metacognitive growth. The debriefing phase emerges as the space in which the SEL loop closes, as participants articulate and consolidate both the emotional turbulence and relational learning generated during the simulation, transforming affective experience into transferable social–emotional competence. These findings offer practical guidance for simulation designers seeking to embed SEL intentionally across all phases of the pedagogical cycle in intercultural teacher training contexts. Full article

Objective: Varicella zoster virus (VZV), a member of the Herpesviridae family, is known as the causative agent of chickenpox (varicella). Following primary infection, VZV can remain latent for life and may reactivate over time to cause herpes zoster (shingles). Advanced age, immunodeficiency, and certain chronic illnesses are major risk factors for the development of herpes zoster. To prevent herpes zoster, a live zoster vaccine was licensed in 2006, followed by a recombinant zoster vaccine with higher efficacy in 2018. In Türkiye, the recombinant zoster vaccine was licensed in 2024. Raising awareness among healthcare workers is important both for their own health and the safety of vulnerable patients. This study aimed to evaluate healthcare workers’ knowledge and awareness of herpes zoster infection and zoster vaccines across the country, as well as to determine the prevalence of prior herpes zoster infection among them. Methods: After obtaining ethical approval, a nationwide multicenter survey was conducted. A questionnaire was distributed to healthcare workers via an online link. Participation was entirely voluntary. The survey collected demographic information (age, sex, profession, years of experience) and included questions on knowledge of herpes zoster, history of zoster infection, symptoms and severity (if applicable), awareness of the zoster vaccine, and vaccination attitudes. Results: A total of 5180 healthcare workers participated, of whom 3505 were female. The participants ranged in age from 18 to 79 years (mean age: 34.24 ± 11.52). Regarding professions: 47.9% were physicians, 21.3% were nurses or midwives, 0.8% were dentists or dental technicians, and 30% were from other healthcare professions. Among participants, 54.4% had ≤10 years of professional experience, 20% had comorbidities, and 10.5% were using immunosuppressive medications. It was found that 9.6% had previously had herpes zoster, 8.8% had no knowledge of the disease, 39.6% were aware of the vaccine, and 20.1% were unwilling to pay for vaccination. Multivariate binary logistic regression analysis revealed that being a physician significantly increased the likelihood of having correct knowledge by 1.961 times compared to other professions (p < 0.001, CI: 1.608–2.392). Similarly, those who had heard of herpes zoster were 3.191 times more likely to answer correctly than those who had not (p = 0.011, CI: 1.650–6.172). Male gender was significantly associated with a lower likelihood of having accurate knowledge compared to females (p = 0.001, OR = 0.720, CI: 0.594–0.874). Conclusions: This study revealed that healthcare workers’ knowledge and awareness regarding herpes zoster and its vaccines are generally insufficient. The recent licensing of the vaccine in Türkiye may explain this, but it is critical for healthcare professionals to be more informed about risk groups and vaccination indications in order to enhance the effectiveness of preventive healthcare services. Given the potential for serious complications of herpes zoster in elderly and immunocompromised individuals, the importance of vaccination should be emphasized more strongly to healthcare workers. Furthermore, the finding that 20.1% of those aware of the vaccine were deterred by its cost highlights the need to improve vaccine accessibility. Economic barriers preventing healthcare workers from being vaccinated emphasize the importance of making the vaccine widely available through public support to protect both healthcare workers and patient safety. Full article

On behalf of the Canadian Association of Psychosocial Oncology, we are pleased to present the abstracts from the 2026 Annual Conference, titled “A New Horizon: Expanding the Access and Impact of Psychosocial Oncology”. The 41st Annual CAPO Conference was held in St. John’s, Newfoundland from 8 June 2026 to 9 June 2026. As we stand at a new horizon in psychosocial oncology, we recognize the unprecedented opportunities to expand both the access to and the impact of comprehensive cancer care. This conference will explore innovative strategies for breaking down traditional barriers that have historically limited access to psychosocial support, including geographic isolation, resource constraints, cultural disparities, and systemic inequities in healthcare delivery. This expansion of reach and influence represents not merely growth in service numbers, but a fundamental transformation in how we conceptualize, design, and implement patient-centered psychosocial care across diverse communities and care settings. We will explore scalable solutions that amplify impact while maintaining the deeply personal, human-centered approach that defines excellence in psychosocial oncology. From telehealth innovations and peer support networks to community-based interventions and integrated care models, this conference will showcase evidence-based strategies that expand our collective ability to support individuals and families navigating the cancer journey, wherever they may be. This conference brought together key stakeholders including multidisciplinary professionals from nursing, psychology, psychiatry, social work, spiritual care, nutrition, medicine, rehabilitation medicine, occupational health and radiation therapy for both adult and pediatric populations. Participants included clinicians, researchers, educators in cancer care, community-based organizations and patient representatives. Patients, caregivers and family members presented abstracts that speak to their role in managing cancer experiences and care. Over one-hundred and fifty (150) abstracts were submitted for presentation as symposia, 20 min oral presentations, 10 min oral presentations, 90 min workshops and poster presentations. We congratulate all the presenters on their research work and contributions. Full article

Background/Objectives: The integrity of firearm evidence is central to solving violent crimes and securing just court outcomes, yet the consistency of investigative practices across policing environments remains uncertain. This study examined the articulated understanding and reported practices related to firearm evidence among investigating officers, crime scene experts from the Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC), and ballistics experts within the South African Police Service (SAPS). Materials and Methods: A qualitative research design was adopted, using semi-structured interviews with 39 participants across the three groups. The study explored participants’ knowledge of firearm evidence, types of evidence found at murder crime scenes, procedures for evidence collection, and the concept of chain of custody. Data was analysed thematically to identify patterns and knowledge gaps. Results: The findings revealed considerable variation across groups in articulated knowledge and reported procedural awareness, with crime scene experts demonstrating stronger conceptual clarity, while investigating officers showed notable gaps in recognising trace elements and maintaining continuity of possession. Ballistics experts possessed technical expertise but limited familiarity with scene-level protocols. These disparities have the potential to pose risks to evidentiary integrity and evidentiary admissibility if reflected in practice. Conclusions: The findings suggest that enhancing shared understanding of firearm evidence handling through reinforced procedural guidance and professional development may support greater consistency at early investigative stages. These conclusions are grounded in participants’ articulated knowledge and reported procedural awareness derived from interview data, rather than observed investigative practice or case file compliance. Further research is required to assess how such interventions influence operational practice and to explore the potential role of digital tools in supporting chain-of-custody continuity. Full article

While computational thinking (CT) is increasingly vital in K-12 education, teaching it through text-based coding remains challenging for teachers. To address this gap, this study presents and evaluates a self-paced professional development (PD) module, “Let’s Code with GenAI,” created for K-12 teachers to enhance text-based coding and CT. Using a one-group pretest-posttest design, 34 pre-/in-service teachers completed the module in 2025, engaging with instructional videos and hands-on coding activities using Micro:bit and MakeCode (v11.3.22), with a GenAI assistant providing explanations and debugging support. Pre- and post-intervention data were collected using the Teacher Beliefs about Coding and Computational Thinking (TBaCCT) scale and a coding/CT assessment. Posttest scores were higher than pretest scores on teaching efficacy and value beliefs (p < 0.001 for both), as well as in coding self-efficacy (p < 0.001) and CT self-efficacy (p = 0.015). Coding/CT assessment scores were also higher at posttest (p = 0.040). No statistically significant correlations were found between self-efficacy and performance measures. Overall, the findings offer preliminary insights into participants’ post-intervention outcomes in a GenAI-supported, self-paced PD module, including self-efficacy, value beliefs, and coding/CT performance, while underscoring the need for future controlled studies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Hispanic adults in the United States seek and access professional mental health services at a disproportionately lower rate than non-Hispanic White adults, despite having similar rates of mental health challenges. Community focus groups held in El Paso, Texas, in 2022 revealed both systemic and individual-level factors that serve as barriers to help-seeking and access. Participant recommendations for overcoming these barriers included increasing mental health education and improving the cultural responsiveness and navigability of mental health services. Stemming from these findings and informed by the literature on trauma-informed practice, culturally responsive interventions, and evidence-informed practices, we developed and pilot-tested a 4-week closed group community-grounded mental health engagement program called Pensamientos y Pláticas. Methods: The program was offered to 82 participants. Paired-sample t-tests were used to analyze differences between pre- and post-intervention data for the outcome variables assessed: stigma and emotional well-being. Analysis was limited to the 39 participants who completed at least half of the modules and had intact pre- and post-intervention data. Results: Data analysis revealed a statistically significant reduction in stigma related to help-seeking with a small-to-moderate effect size, while no statistically significant increase in emotional well-being was supported by the data. Conclusions: Findings from this pilot study reflect preliminary evidence of feasibility, acceptability, and potential benefit at reducing stigma related to seeking help in Hispanic communities and support Pensamientos y Pláticas as a promising culturally responsive stigma-reduction intervention. Full article

Background: Influenza poses a serious threat to the health of older adults, and vaccination is a key strategy for prevention. As an economically developed city, Suzhou has a rapidly aging population, yet the influenza vaccination rate among older adults remains substantially lower than that in developed countries. There is an urgent need to understand the current vaccination status and its associated factors to inform future strategies for improving vaccination coverage. Objectives: To compare influenza- and vaccine-related knowledge, attitudes, practices, and information access channels between vaccinated and unvaccinated older adults (≥60 years) in Suzhou, and to identify factors associated with vaccination behavior in economically developed areas. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional survey was conducted from April to August 2024 across six districts or county-level cities randomly selected from Suzhou’s ten county-level administrative divisions. Participants were divided into vaccinated and unvaccinated groups based on their influenza vaccination status during the 2023–2024 influenza season. A two-stage sampling method was employed: the six districts were selected as primary sampling units; within each district, eligible older adults (aged ≥60 years) were randomly selected from two independent sampling frames—the vaccination information system for the vaccinated group and the basic public health service system for the unvaccinated group. Face-to-face structured interviews were conducted using a questionnaire consisting of four sections; data were entered using EpiData 13.1 and analyzed using SPSS 27.0. The χ² test, t-test, and multivariable logistic regression were used for statistical analysis. Results: Among 4622 valid older adults (vaccinated: n = 2007; unvaccinated: n = 2615), the vaccinated group scored significantly higher on influenza-related knowledge (4.06 ± 2.21 vs. 3.16 ± 2.33, p < 0.001), vaccine-related knowledge (2.10 ± 1.18 vs. 0.67 ± 1.07, p < 0.001), and perceived influenza risk scores (2.72 ± 1.42 vs. 2.26 ± 1.64, p < 0.001). Vaccine safety and efficacy endorsement were also markedly higher among the vaccinated group (70.3% vs. 22.0%; 49.7% vs. 9.3%). Regarding information sources, the vaccinated group relied more on healthcare institutions (54.56% vs. 46.92%), whereas the unvaccinated group relied more on television (60.34% vs. 51.17%). Multivariable logistic regression revealed that awareness of the influenza vaccine (aOR = 9.151, 95%CI: 6.32–13.25), having a planned vaccination site (aOR = 2.66, 95%CI: 2.01–3.54), and perceiving the vaccine as safe (aOR = 1.81, 95%CI: 1.31–2.49) were positively associated with vaccination, while rural household registration (aOR = 0.76, 95%CI: 0.63–0.93), full-time employment (aOR = 0.41, 95%CI: 0.28–0.60), and hypertension (aOR = 0.79, 95%CI: 0.65–0.94) were inversely associated. Conclusions: Compared with the unvaccinated group, the vaccinated group demonstrated significantly better influenza- and vaccine-related knowledge, risk perception, and recognition of vaccine safety and efficacy, and relied more on healthcare institutions for information. Multivariable regression analysis identified awareness of the influenza vaccine as the strongest associated factor. These findings suggest that vaccination coverage could be improved by strengthening vaccine knowledge promotion through healthcare professionals and increasing awareness of vaccination policies that integrate medical insurance reimbursement. Full article

Technological progress in metrology provides new opportunities for enhancing the quality and transparency of metrological services, with the Digital Calibration Certificate (DCC) playing a significant role in this development. In contrast to traditional calibration certificates, the DCC enables the transfer of extended machine-readable data and can bring additional technical and metrological information describing the calibration process. This paper focuses on the use of DCC additional information for enhanced expression of calibration results in metrological practice and education. Using the example of pressure transducer calibration, the implementation of extended datasets within the DCC structure and their application in result evaluation are demonstrated, including analytical determination of measurement uncertainty and the application of the Monte Carlo method. The results confirm the contribution of DCC to more transparent interpretation of calibration results and to the support of professional education in metrology. Full article

Background/Objectives: Transportation insecurity and chronic health conditions can substantially influence healthcare access and alternative in-person healthcare utilization in urban areas. Alternative healthcare delivery models, such as telehealth services and professional homecare visits, may help address mobility-related barriers. This study examines how transportation insecurity, chronic health status, and healthcare access challenges are associated with homecare visits and telehealth utilization, while also assessing differences in health and well-being perceptions among individuals with and without chronic health conditions in Dallas, Texas, and Detroit, Michigan. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was employed among 1649 respondents using a questionnaire. Binary logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine associations between transportation insecurity, chronic health status, healthcare access challenges, homecare visits, and telehealth utilization. Mann–Whitney U tests were used to compare perceived physical health and mental health between participants with and without chronic health conditions. Results: Transportation insecurity emerged as having a significant relationship with homecare visits, with transportation-insecure respondents being approximately 4.7 times more likely to receive homecare services than transportation-secure respondents. Transportation insecurity and healthcare access challenges were also significantly associated with greater telehealth utilization in Detroit and both cities combined. Participants without chronic health conditions reported significantly more favorable perceptions of physical and mental health than those with chronic conditions. Transportation affordability, lack of available rides from family or friends, and long waiting times were identified as the most common healthcare transportation barriers. Conclusions: Healthcare utilization and well-being outcomes are significantly associated with self-reported chronic health status and transportation insecurity. Expanding transportation assistance programs, strengthening homecare services, and improving telehealth availability may enhance healthcare access and support better health outcomes among transportation-disadvantaged and chronically ill populations. Full article

As generative AI technologies become increasingly embedded in educational cloud platforms, understanding their impact on teacher professional development is essential. Grounded in the stimulus–organism–response (S–O–R) framework, this study investigates how AI-driven stimuli—hedonicity, interactivity, and immersion—influence teachers’ self-regulation and resilience. Using structural equation modeling, data were collected from in-service teachers in Taiwan who actively utilize educational cloud platforms. The results reveal that all three AI-driven stimuli significantly enhance teachers’ self-regulation and resilience, which in turn are significantly associated with perceived value co-creation intentions. Specifically, self-regulation enables teachers to manage goals effectively, while resilience supports their recovery from technical setbacks. The findings indicate that self-regulation positively influences resilience, and both appear to mediate the relationship between perceived AI-driven stimuli and teachers’ value co-creation intentions. This study highlights the potential role of teachers’ psychological adaptability in AI-enhanced environments. Practical implications suggest that platform developers and administrators should prioritize AI features that foster self-directed learning and emotional engagement to promote collaborative willingness and professional alignment within modern educational ecosystems rather than implying proven macro-level transformation. Full article

Background/Objectives: The rapid growth of the companion animal industry has increased demand for professional pet grooming services; however, occupational health risks among pet groomers remain underexplored. This cross-sectional study investigated the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), occupational burnout, and associated occupational and ergonomic factors and their interrelationships among pet grooming professionals. Methods: A total of 180 pet grooming professionals were recruited through geographically stratified convenience sampling across northern, central, and southern Taiwan. Data were collected using structured questionnaires assessing demographics, workload, ergonomic equipment, and working postures. MSD symptoms were evaluated using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and occupational burnout was assessed using the Taiwan Ministry of Labor Burnout Assessment Scale. Descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), Pearson’s correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression analysis were performed to identify factors associated with MSD severity and occupational burnout. Results: MSDs were highly prevalent, with 95% of participants reporting symptoms in at least one body region. The most affected regions were the right shoulder (71.7%), neck (70.6%), upper back (65.6%), and lower back (65.6%). Significant associated ergonomic factors included excessive bathing tub depth (≥46 cm), non-adjustable grooming tables, prolonged trunk flexion, and horse-stance postures. Higher workload intensity, including frequent bathing tasks and handling aggressive or large animals, was significantly associated with greater MSD severity (p < 0.05). Moderate-to-severe personal- and work-related burnout were identified in 43.3% and 37.2% of participants, respectively. MSD severity was positively correlated with personal-related burnout (r = 0.491, p < 0.001) and work-related burnout (r = 0.428, p < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis results indicated the MSD score was a significant predictor of both personal- and work-related burnout (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Pet grooming professionals experience a substantial burden of MSDs and occupational burnout associated with ergonomic strain and physically demanding work. Non-neutral postures and inadequately designed equipment were significantly associated with greater MSD severity. The close association between MSDs and burnout underscores the interrelationship between physical and psychological occupational health. Ergonomic workplace modifications and targeted occupational health interventions are necessary to improve worker well-being and industry sustainability. Full article

Sporadic cases of trichinellosis have occurred almost every year in Serbia. The success of trichinellosis control in the country depends on effective communication among medical professionals who discover a case of trichinellosis, the Public Health Service, and the Veterinary Service, in line with the One Health concept. The collaborative approach, supported by a robust reporting and monitoring system, has been essential for identifying infection sources and preventing further spread. However, in March 2023, the National Reference Laboratory for Trichinellosis (NRLT) received reports of hospitalized patients with suspected trichinellosis, signaling the possibility of two outbreaks based on their socio-epidemiological history. The investigation revealed separate trichinellosis outbreaks occurred in Grocka, Belgrade municipality, and Dolovo, Pancevo municipality, with pork identified as the source of infection. Serological tests confirmed the presence of Trichinella-specific antibodies in the patients, including their family members and friends. A total of four patients required hospitalization. In accordance with regulations, veterinary inspectors took dried meat and meat products samples and Trichinella larvae were detected using the digestion method. The entire amount of dried meat and meat products was subsequently destroyed. Multiplex PCR confirmed the identification of Trichinella britovi at the species level in both outbreaks. These findings represent the first documented cases of T. britovi infection in domestic pigs in Serbia. The outbreak data once again highlight that inadequate animal husbandry practices, certain human behaviors, and a lack of awareness about the risks continue to be major contributors to the persistence of trichinellosis in Serbia. Full article

Background/Objectives: Shared Care Planning (SCP) represents a collaborative decision-making process integrating advance care planning and shared decision-making to support ethically complex clinical pathways. Since 2016, the Clinical Ethics Consultation (CEC) service at the Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “Agostino Gemelli” IRCCS (FPUG) in Rome has implemented SCP through the use of the Shared Document (SD) for healthcare ethics planning. This study aimed to describe the SD as an operational tool supporting SCP, focusing on its procedural characteristics, multidisciplinary dimension, and the ethical and contextual issues emerging during its implementation. Methods: This single-center, retrospective observational study analyzed digitized medical records of patients who underwent SCP through the drafting of one or more SDs between 2016 and 2024 at FPUG. Data were extracted from SDs and clinical records in accordance with the RECORD guidelines. Variables included processing time, number of meetings with the clinical ethics consultant (CEc), number of healthcare professionals and family members involved, ethical–clinical issues, contextual challenges, and care orientations proposed within the SDs. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the cohort and operational aspects of the service. Results: Among 454 patients referred to the CEC service, 154 patients underwent SCP, resulting in 160 SDs. The most frequent ethical issues concerned the proportionality of treatments to initiate (70%) and ongoing treatments (31%). Contextual issues emerged in 74% of cases, particularly pregnancy-related situations (44%) and absence of a legal guardian (19%). Drafting of SD required multiple interdisciplinary meetings (mean: 2.4), with an average processing time of 7 days. The number of healthcare professionals involved increased over time, reflecting growing multidisciplinary participation. The most frequent care orientations included palliative care (58%), withholding invasive/intensive maneuvers (34%), and indications for surgical or diagnostic treatments. Conclusions: The SD emerged as a structured clinical–ethical tool supporting complex shared care planning processes beyond issues of informed consent alone. Its use facilitated multidisciplinary deliberation, the integration of ethical and contextual factors, and continuity in care planning across different clinical trajectories. Full article

Context: Child-focused healthcare professionals serve as primary providers of both physical and psychosocial care to pediatric patients and their families. Consequently, they are exposed to substantial occupational and emotional challenges in the course of their practice. Objectives: This study examined the levels and multidimensional aspects of occupational stress, coping strategies, and resilience among healthcare professionals providing care to pediatric patients and their families in Greece. Methods: Socio-demographic characteristics, perceived occupational stress, coping strategies (WCQ), and resilience were assessed in a sample of 202 child-focused healthcare (physicians and nurses) and social care professionals (social workers, psychologists, and special education professionals) employed across a range of health and psychosocial services in Greece. Multiple linear regression analyses using the enter method were performed to examine the associations among resilience, occupational stress, and coping strategies while controlling for relevant demographic and occupational variables. Results: Social support was significantly associated with gender. Positive coping was associated with age, work experience, and the WCQ subscales Social Support, Daydreaming, and Avoidance. Avoidance coping was positively associated with profession and Daydreaming. Significant differences were also observed according to age, occupational stress, positive coping, social support, and resilience. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis demonstrated that, positive coping was independently and most strongly associated with resilience (p < 0.001), whereas work stress was independently and negatively associated with resilience (p = 0.001), with higher perceived stress corresponding to lower levels of resilience. Conclusions: The findings highlight the central role of positive coping in relation to resilience among child-focused healthcare professionals, while demonstrating the negative association between occupational stress and resilience. These results underscore the need for interventions that strengthen effective coping strategies, reduce work-related stress, and enhance resilience among healthcare professionals. They also identify important knowledge gaps and support the need for future research examining occupational stress, its long-term consequences, and the coping mechanisms and resilience among professionals working with children and families. Full article