Tetyana P Shippee, Romil R Parikh, Nicholas Musinguzi, Benjamin W Langworthy, Jack M Wolf, Stephanie Giordano, Eric Jutkowitz
{"title":"Associations of Place-Based Factors with Service Use and Consumer-Reported Unmet Service Needs Among Older Adults Using Publicly Funded Home- and Community-Based Services in the United States.","authors":"Tetyana P Shippee, Romil R Parikh, Nicholas Musinguzi, Benjamin W Langworthy, Jack M Wolf, Stephanie Giordano, Eric Jutkowitz","doi":"10.3390/ijerph22091461","DOIUrl":"10.3390/ijerph22091461","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Access to home- and community-based services (HCBS) is critical for aging in place; yet many older adults continue to experience unmet needs. While individual-level factors are better-studied, less is known about how neighborhood-level place-based factors (PBFs, e.g., poverty, housing conditions, transportation, and internet access) shape access to and adequacy of HCBS. This study addresses that gap by examining the added explanatory value of PBFs in predicting HCBS use and unmet needs. We analyzed data from 6558 community-dwelling adults aged ≥ 65 years using the 2022-2023 National Core Indicators-Aging & Disability Adult Consumer Survey. Outcomes included use of six HCBS types, consumer-reported unmet needs for each type, and overall unmet HCBS needs. PBFs were measured at the ZIP code level using the 2016-2020 American Community Survey. Nested logistic regression models estimated incremental variance (McFadden's R<sup>2</sup>) explained by PBFs, adjusting for individual demographics, health status, state, and proxy response. Adding PBFs increased explained variance by 7.98-22.70% for HCBS use, 35.92-48.00% for unmet needs by service type, and 51.85% for overall unmet HCBS needs. PBFs meaningfully influence both access to and adequacy of HCBS. Using PBFs to guide resource allocation and targeting modifiable PBFs could improve HCBS access and efficiency.</p>","PeriodicalId":49056,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health","volume":"22 9","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12469763/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145179866","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"综合性期刊","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Marcela Rodrigues de Siqueira, Tuany Mageste Limongi, Eduardo Borba Salzer, Ana Paula Delgado Bomtempo, Juliana Fernandes Filgueiras Meireles, Clara Mockdece Neves
{"title":"Postpartum Women's Body Dissatisfaction: A Systematic Review of Theoretical Models and Regression Analyses.","authors":"Marcela Rodrigues de Siqueira, Tuany Mageste Limongi, Eduardo Borba Salzer, Ana Paula Delgado Bomtempo, Juliana Fernandes Filgueiras Meireles, Clara Mockdece Neves","doi":"10.3390/ijerph22091463","DOIUrl":"10.3390/ijerph22091463","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Postpartum body image is a critical aspect of maternal well-being, influenced by sociocultural, psychological, and relational factors. Theoretical models offer a broader framework for understanding these influences, whereas regression analyses identify specific associations. This systematic review aimed to identify theoretical models assessing postpartum body image and to examine its association with relevant constructs using regression analysis. A search was conducted of four databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and American Psychological Association) between August 2022 and March 2024. Studies including mothers over 18 years old, within 0-24 months postpartum, that applied theoretical models and/or regression analyses were included. Of 169 articles retrieved from databases and 1 identified through backward snowballing, 18 studies met the inclusion criteria. Three theoretical models were identified, and highlighted sociocultural influences, social support, and breastfeeding as key determinants of body dissatisfaction. Regression analysis identified association between postpartum body image and maternal weight, depression, mode of delivery, sexual function, breastfeeding, and social support. Given these influences, the review emphasizes the importance of adopting holistic approaches to support maternal well-being. Interventions addressing postpartum body image should integrate strategies that consider cultural expectations, promote adequate social support, and address physical and emotional health challenges, such as weight management and mental health care. PROSPERO (CRD42022352992).</p>","PeriodicalId":49056,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health","volume":"22 9","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12469594/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145179865","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"综合性期刊","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Júlia Elena Fontana Ronsani, Mariana Papini Gabiatti, Anne Ribeiro Streb, Rodrigo Sudatti Delevatti, Giovani Firpo Del Duca, Fernanda Hansen
{"title":"Effects of Combined Training on Visceral Adiposity Index and Metabolic Phenotype in Obesity: A Randomized Clinical Trial.","authors":"Júlia Elena Fontana Ronsani, Mariana Papini Gabiatti, Anne Ribeiro Streb, Rodrigo Sudatti Delevatti, Giovani Firpo Del Duca, Fernanda Hansen","doi":"10.3390/ijerph22091462","DOIUrl":"10.3390/ijerph22091462","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Introduction</b>: The role of obesity in developing metabolic alterations is related to the distribution of adipose tissue, and visceral fat predisposes people to a higher risk than subcutaneous fat. The effect of different forms of periodization of combined training is still unknown in reducing cardiometabolic risk in adults with obesity. This randomized clinical trial aims to compare the effects of 16 weeks of periodized combined training with fixed and linear increase intensities on individuals with obesity, using the visceral adiposity index (VAI) and metabolic phenotype. <b>Methods</b>: In total, 59 adults with obesity (61.0% female) were allocated into three groups: control (CG, 34.4 ± 6.9 years; BMI, 33.0 ± 2.5 kg.m<sup>-2</sup>), combined training with fixed intensity (FG, 33.6 ± 8.4 years; BMI, 32.9 ± 2.3 kg.m<sup>-2</sup>), and linear increase intensity (LG, 34.5 ± 6.0 years; BMI, 33.4 ± 2.8 kg.m<sup>-2</sup>) in a 1:1:1 ratio. VAI equations were used with waist circumference, triglycerides, BMI, and HDL-c. The metabolic phenotype was defined by the presence of >3 abnormalities of the following: systolic/diastolic blood pressure, triglycerides, HDL-c, fasting blood glucose, and waist circumference, classified as metabolically healthy and unhealthy (MHO; MUO). Intra- and intergroup analyses were performed per protocol (PP) and intention-to-treat (ITT) using the Generalized Estimated Equations method. <i>p</i> < 0.10 was the level of significance adopted for interaction, and <i>p</i> < 0.05 was the level of significance for the isolated effect of time and/or group. <b>Results</b>: VAI decreased in FG (<i>p</i> < 0.001) in PP and ITT analyses, but not in LG in either analysis (<i>p</i> > 0.05). There was a higher number of MUO in FG compared to LG, only in PP, considering the effect of group analysis (<i>p</i> < 0.01), but not of time or group * time or ITT analyses (<i>p</i> > 0.05). <b>Conclusions</b>: Combined training with fixed intensity improved VAI but was insufficient to affect metabolic phenotype. These findings suggest minimal differences between fixed intensity and linear increase protocols in reducing the risk of metabolic complications during obesity treatment.</p>","PeriodicalId":49056,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health","volume":"22 9","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12469366/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145179827","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"综合性期刊","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Development and Validity Evaluation of the Index of Social Work Process in Promoting Social Participation of Welfare Recipients (SWP-PSP) in Japan.","authors":"Yukiko Takagi, Hideki Hashimoto","doi":"10.3390/ijerph22091458","DOIUrl":"10.3390/ijerph22091458","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Social workers are required to have the capacity to effectively support welfare recipients to restore their labor participation for social inclusion. However, a systematic method for process evaluation of this capacity has not yet been established. In this study, we developed the Index of Social Work Process in Promoting Social Participation of Welfare Recipients (SWP-PSP) to address this gap. Item domains and pools were prepared by referring to existing social work guidelines and human capital management theories, and content and face validity were confirmed by an expert panel review. The initial 75 items were revised to 44. We conducted a cross-sectional survey with 139 social workers working in public livelihood support at various municipal authorities in Japan. Item response theory analysis was performed for item selection, followed by the criterion-related validity test for convergent validation using Utrecht Work Engagement (UWE) scale scores as a reference. The selected 20 items with four domains were moderately correlated with UWE scores (Pearson's correlation coefficient r = 0.35). Certified social workers demonstrated a stronger correlation with UWE (r = 0.44) than social workers without certification (r = 0.26). Cronbach's alpha coefficients in each domain were over 0.77. These results indicate the reliability and validity of the SWP-PSP. This measure may be helpful for the evaluation of social workers' capacity to promote social inclusion of welfare recipients.</p>","PeriodicalId":49056,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health","volume":"22 9","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12470206/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145179748","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"综合性期刊","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Lakshmi Gopalakrishnan, Nadia Diamond-Smith, Hannah H Leslie
{"title":"Psychometric Validation of Trust, Commitment, and Satisfaction Scales to Measure Marital Relationship Quality Among Newly Married Women in Nepal.","authors":"Lakshmi Gopalakrishnan, Nadia Diamond-Smith, Hannah H Leslie","doi":"10.3390/ijerph22091457","DOIUrl":"10.3390/ijerph22091457","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Marital relationship quality significantly influences health outcomes, but validated measurement tools for South Asian populations remain limited. To validate scales measuring trust, commitment, and satisfaction as key components of marital relationship quality among newly married women in Nepal, we conducted a two-wave psychometric validation study in rural Nawalparasi district. The study included 200 newly married women aged 18-25 years, with 192 participants (96% retention) completing 6-month follow-up. We assessed factor structure, internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and criterion validity of trust (eight items), commitment (five items), and satisfaction (seven items) scales using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. Exploratory factor analysis identified single-factor solutions for trust and commitment scales and a two-factor model for satisfaction. Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed these structures, with satisfaction comprising marital conflict/dissatisfaction (four items) and general satisfaction (two items) subscales. All scales demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach's α: 0.79-0.96) and significant criterion validity correlations with relationship happiness (r = 0.63-0.72, <i>p</i> < 0.001). Test-retest reliability showed moderate to low stability (r = 0.21-0.51), likely reflecting genuine relationship changes in early marriage. The validated scales provide reliable tools for assessing relationship quality in South Asian contexts, enabling research on marriage-health associations and evidence-based interventions.</p>","PeriodicalId":49056,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health","volume":"22 9","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12469632/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145179772","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"综合性期刊","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Olga Papale, Emanuel Festino, Lamprini Papargyri, Cristina Cortis, Andrea Fusco
{"title":"Designing, Developing, and Evaluating a Stakeholder-Informed Mobile App to Promote Physical Activity in Children.","authors":"Olga Papale, Emanuel Festino, Lamprini Papargyri, Cristina Cortis, Andrea Fusco","doi":"10.3390/ijerph22091460","DOIUrl":"10.3390/ijerph22091460","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background</b>: Prolonged sedentary behavior and associated obesity are recognized risk factors for poor health across the lifespan. Globally, data show that many children and adolescents aged 5 to 17 significantly increased their sedentary behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic, failing to meet recommended physical activity levels and reporting increased smartphone use. While mobile devices and video games have been traditionally linked to physical inactivity, formats like exergaming, which combine gameplay with gross motor activity, offer potential to promote physical activity. However, many digital health tools for children are developed without incorporating feedback from key stakeholders and end-users (e.g., children, teachers, and guardians). Therefore, this paper, within the Walk around the Earth (E-Walk) project, describes a prospective study that aims (1) to identify the most influential factors or characteristics affecting engagement with and usability of a mobile application promoting physical activity among primary school students; (2) to develop a mobile application for children based on the identified factors and characteristics. <b>Methods</b>: This project will use a group concept mapping approach to identify the most influential features/factors/characteristics affecting engagement with and usability of an app. By involving primary stakeholders (e.g., children, teachers, guardians, and physical activity experts), the project seeks to align the app's features with primary end-user needs and motivations. Following the app's development, its effectiveness in increasing physical activity levels and reducing sedentary behaviors will be evaluated through a mixed-method design, incorporating anthropometric data, validated physical activity questionnaires (Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C) and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)), and engagement metrics. <b>Conclusions</b>: The E-Walk project integrates participatory design with educational content and activity-based challenges, representing a multidimensional strategy for promoting health and learning in primary school students. Ultimately, this study contributes to the development of user-informed digital interventions that support sustainable behavioral changes, in line with broader goals of child well-being and digital health promotion.</p>","PeriodicalId":49056,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health","volume":"22 9","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12469936/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145179673","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"综合性期刊","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Dalia Kashef Zayed, Ruba A Al-Smadi, Mohammad Almaayteh, Thekryat Al-Hjouj, Ola Hamdan, Ammar Abu Ghalyoun, Omar Alsaleh, Tariq Abu Touk, Saddam Nawaf Almaseidin, Thaira Madi, Samar Khaled Hassan, Muna Horabi, Adel Belbiesi, Tareq L Mukattash, Ala'a B Al-Tammemi
{"title":"Strengthening Jordan's Laboratory Capacity for Communicable Diseases: A Comprehensive Multi-Method Mapping Toward Harmonized National Laboratories and Evidence-Informed Public Health Planning.","authors":"Dalia Kashef Zayed, Ruba A Al-Smadi, Mohammad Almaayteh, Thekryat Al-Hjouj, Ola Hamdan, Ammar Abu Ghalyoun, Omar Alsaleh, Tariq Abu Touk, Saddam Nawaf Almaseidin, Thaira Madi, Samar Khaled Hassan, Muna Horabi, Adel Belbiesi, Tareq L Mukattash, Ala'a B Al-Tammemi","doi":"10.3390/ijerph22091459","DOIUrl":"10.3390/ijerph22091459","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Infectious diseases remain a global threat, with low- and middle-income countries disproportionately affected due to socio-economic and demographic vulnerabilities. Robust laboratory systems are critical for early detection, outbreak containment, and guiding effective interventions. This study aimed to map and evaluate Jordan's laboratory diagnostic network for communicable diseases, identify gaps, and recommend strategies to strengthen capacity, harmonization, and alignment with international standards. A multi-method approach was employed in 2023 through collaboration between the Jordan Center for Disease Control and the Health Care Accreditation Council. Data were collected via (i) a desktop review of 226 national and international documents; (ii) 20 key informant interviews with stakeholders from the public, private, military, veterinary, and academic sectors; and (iii) 23 field visits across 27 laboratories in four Jordanian governorates. Data were analyzed thematically and synthesized using the LABNET framework, which outlined ten core laboratory capacities. Findings were validated through a multi-sectoral national workshop with 90 participants. The mapping revealed the absence of a unified national laboratory strategic plan, with governance dispersed across multiple authorities and limited inter-sectoral coordination. Standard operating protocols (SOPs) existed for high-priority diseases such as T.B, HIV, influenza, and COVID-19 but were lacking or outdated for other notifiable diseases, particularly zoonoses. Quality management was inconsistent, with limited participation in external quality assurance programs and minimal accreditation uptake. Biosafety and biosecurity frameworks were fragmented and insufficiently enforced, while workforce shortages, high turnover, and limited specialized training constrained laboratory performance. Despite these challenges, Jordan demonstrated strengths including skilled laboratory staff, established reference centers, and international collaborations, which provide a platform for improvement. Jordan's laboratory network has foundational strengths but faces systemic challenges in policy coherence, standardization, quality assurance, and workforce capacity. Addressing these gaps requires the development of a national laboratory strategic plan, strengthened legal and regulatory frameworks, enhanced quality management and accreditation, and integrated One Health coordination across human, animal, and environmental health sectors. These measures will improve diagnostic reliability, preparedness, and alignment with the global health security agenda.</p>","PeriodicalId":49056,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health","volume":"22 9","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12469349/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145179822","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"综合性期刊","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Nature-Based Solutions in Workplace Settings: A Scoping Review on Pathways for Integrated Quality, Environmental, Health, and Safety Management.","authors":"Marcos Vinícius de Castro, Rogerio Galante Negri, Fabiana Alves Fiore, Adriano Bressane","doi":"10.3390/ijerph22091455","DOIUrl":"10.3390/ijerph22091455","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Occupational environments often expose workers to physical and psychological stressors that compromise well-being and productivity. While biophilic design has gained attention, there remains limited systematic integration of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) within workplace management frameworks. This review aims to map the empirical impacts of NbSs on occupational health, productivity, and environmental quality, and to identify key barriers and facilitators for their integration into comprehensive Quality, Environmental, Health, and Safety (QEHS) management systems. A scoping literature review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines. A comprehensive search was performed in the Scopus and Web of Science databases for studies published between 2019 and 2024. A total of 2452 records were initially retrieved, with 39 studies retained for synthesis following screening, eligibility assessment, and critical appraisal using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. Findings indicate that NbSs can reduce stress, improve physical and cognitive health, and enhance workplace productivity. Reported benefits include reduced absenteeism, improved indoor air quality, and measurable financial returns. However, significant challenges persist, including high upfront costs, ongoing maintenance demands, a shortage of specialized labor, and methodological heterogeneity across studies. In particular, hybrid approaches combining physical natural elements and immersive technologies such as virtual reality emerged as promising alternatives for spatially constrained environments. Participatory co-design and stakeholder engagement were also identified as critical success factors for effective implementation. Integrating NbSs into QEHS frameworks has the potential to foster healthier, more resilient, and sustainable workplaces. Alignment with recognized certifications can further support systematic adoption and monitoring. Future research should prioritize longitudinal designs, standardized outcome metrics, and physiological markers, while addressing geographical gaps through studies in underrepresented regions. Embedding participatory processes and certification alignment can enhance stakeholder buy-in and practical scalability, advancing the integration of NbSs into holistic workplace management strategies.</p>","PeriodicalId":49056,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health","volume":"22 9","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12470130/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145179793","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"综合性期刊","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Andrew Bishara, Elisabetta de Rinaldis, Trisha F Hue, Thomas Peterson, Jennifer Cummings, Abel Torres-Espin, Jeannie F Bailey, Jeffrey C Lotz, Reach Investigators
{"title":"A Summary of Pain Locations and Neuropathic Patterns Extracted Automatically from Patient Self-Reported Sensation Drawings.","authors":"Andrew Bishara, Elisabetta de Rinaldis, Trisha F Hue, Thomas Peterson, Jennifer Cummings, Abel Torres-Espin, Jeannie F Bailey, Jeffrey C Lotz, Reach Investigators","doi":"10.3390/ijerph22091456","DOIUrl":"10.3390/ijerph22091456","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background</b> Chronic low-back pain (LBP) is the largest contributor to disability worldwide, yet many assessments still reduce a complex, spatially distributed condition to a single 0-10 score. Body-map drawings capture location and extent of pain, but manual digitization is too slow and inconsistent for large studies or real-time telehealth. <b>Methods</b> Paper pain drawings from 332 adults in the multicenter COMEBACK study (four University of California sites, March 2021-June 2023) were scanned to PDFs. A Python pipeline automatically (i) rasterized PDF pages with <i>pdf2image</i> v1.17.0; (ii) resized each scan and delineated anterior/posterior regions of interest; (iii) registered patient silhouettes to a canonical high-resolution template using ORB key-points, Brute-Force Hamming matching, RANSAC inlier selection, and 3 × 3 projective homography implemented in OpenCV; (iv) removed template outlines via adaptive Gaussian thresholding, Canny edge detection, and 3 × 3 dilation, leaving only patient-drawn strokes; (v) produced binary masks for pain, numbness, and pins-and-needles, then stacked these across subjects to create pixel-frequency matrices; and (vi) normalized matrices with min-max scaling and rendered heat maps. RGB composites assigned distinct channels to each sensation, enabling intuitive visualization of overlapping symptom distributions and for future data analyses. <b>Results</b> Cohort-level maps replicated classic low-back pain hotspots over lumbar paraspinals, gluteal fold, and posterior thighs, while exposing less-recognized clusters along the lateral hip and lower abdomen. Neuropathic-leaning drawings displayed broader leg involvement than purely nociceptive patterns. <b>Conclusions</b> Our automated workflow converts pen-on-paper pain drawings into machine-readable digitized images and heat maps at the population scale, laying practical groundwork for spatially informed, precision management of chronic LBP.</p>","PeriodicalId":49056,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health","volume":"22 9","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12469790/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145179784","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"综合性期刊","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Replication of a Culturally Tailored Tobacco Cessation Intervention for Arab American Men in North Carolina: An Exploratory Pilot Study.","authors":"Dana El Hajj, Linda Haddad, Anastasiya Ferrell","doi":"10.3390/ijerph22091453","DOIUrl":"10.3390/ijerph22091453","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>(1) Introduction: Arab American (ArA) men have higher smoking rates than the general population, driven by cultural norms. Culturally tailored interventions that incorporate ArA cultural, linguistic, and social contexts are essential for addressing tobacco use and promoting health equity. This study aimed to evaluate a culturally tailored smoking cessation intervention for ArA men living in North Carolina. (2) Methods: This pilot study employed a one-group pre- and post-test design to evaluate program effectiveness within financial and time constraints. The participants completed questionnaires and Carbon monoxide measurements and were provided with Nicotine Replacement therapy. (3) Results: The study found that participants experienced anxiety and stress when delaying their first morning cigarette, which hindered cessation. Although smoking was reduced, relapse was common, highlighting the need for personalized support, especially for those with higher nicotine dependence. While telephone Motivational Interviewing helped reduce anxiety, it was insufficient for complete cessation, underscoring the need for tailored approaches addressing both psychological and physical factors. (4) Conclusions: The study suggests that culturally tailored telephone counseling did not show promise as a smoking cessation strategy for Arab Americans in North Carolina due to low participation. The sample size is really too small to test the efficacy of the intervention itself. It seems to have been more successful in another state. Future efforts should address cultural factors, emerging nicotine products, and expanded research. The project is significant for addressing health disparities among Arab Americans by integrating culturally relevant smoking cessation strategies with evidence-based methods like Nicotine Replacement Therapy.</p>","PeriodicalId":49056,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health","volume":"22 9","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12469616/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145179474","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"综合性期刊","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}