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Challenges
Volume 12
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Challenges, Volume 12, Issue 2 (December 2021) – 19 articles

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7 pages, 227 KiB  
Perspective
Educating Clinicians to Improve Telemedicine Access for Patients with Limited English Proficiency
by Tiffany M. Shin, Pilar Ortega and Karol Hardin
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020034 - 15 Dec 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3909
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic prompted the rapid incorporation of telemedicine into healthcare systems, resulting in increased access challenges for patients in the United States with limited English proficiency (LEP). Non-English-language speakers face challenges with telemedicine that magnify pre-existing barriers to language-appropriate care, such as [...] Read more.
The COVID-19 pandemic prompted the rapid incorporation of telemedicine into healthcare systems, resulting in increased access challenges for patients in the United States with limited English proficiency (LEP). Non-English-language speakers face challenges with telemedicine that magnify pre-existing barriers to language-appropriate care, such as difficulty accessing professional medical interpreters and navigating both electronic health information and online patient portals. Improved medical education on telehealth would increase equitable care for linguistic minorities. Medical education targeting telehealth care delivery should include clinician instruction on working with interpreters in telehealth contexts, increasing patient access to telehealth resources, and addressing patients’ language needs for telemedicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges in Education/Higher Education during COVID-19)
11 pages, 1088 KiB  
Viewpoint
Considering Existing Factors That May Cause Radiation Hormesis at <100 mSv and Obey the Linear No-Threshold Theory at ≥100 mSv
by Katsuhito Kino, Takayuki Ohshima, Hajime Takeuchi, Takanobu Kobayashi, Taishu Kawada, Masayuki Morikawa and Hiroshi Miyazawa
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020033 - 4 Dec 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2848
Abstract
The linear no-threshold (LNT) theory describes the linear relationship between a radiation dose and its effects. However, whether the linear relationship is maintained at low radiation doses has yet to be determined. Many previous studies support the radiation hormesis theory, which states that [...] Read more.
The linear no-threshold (LNT) theory describes the linear relationship between a radiation dose and its effects. However, whether the linear relationship is maintained at low radiation doses has yet to be determined. Many previous studies support the radiation hormesis theory, which states that radiation has beneficial effects on health. In this viewpoint, we propose a mathematical function fitted to a model consistent with both the LNT at ≥100 mSv and radiation hormesis theories at <100 mSv, and the model requires a factor whose amount or activity takes a mountain-like shape versus the radiation dose and have one maximum value at 40.9 mSv. We searched a wide range of factors with these features based on searches on PubMed, and then evaluated whether these factors were suitable candidates consistent with both the LNT and radiation hormesis theories. Our consideration indicated that these factors did not completely follow the equation suggested at this time. Of course, other theories do not deny that these factors are involved in hormesis. However, based on our theory, still unknown factors may be involved in radiation hormesis, and then such unknown factors which are activated at <100 mSv should be searched. Full article
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10 pages, 564 KiB  
Communication
A Call to Broaden Investment in Drinking Water Testing and Community Outreach Programs
by Jason A. Hubbart and Kaylyn S. Gootman
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020032 - 1 Dec 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3252
Abstract
Ensuring access to safe drinking water is a challenge in many parts of the world for reasons including, but not limited to, infrastructure age, source water impairment, limited community finances and limitations in Federal water protections. Water quality crises and the prevalence of [...] Read more.
Ensuring access to safe drinking water is a challenge in many parts of the world for reasons including, but not limited to, infrastructure age, source water impairment, limited community finances and limitations in Federal water protections. Water quality crises and the prevalence of impaired waters globally highlight the need for investment in the expansion of drinking water testing that includes public and private water systems, as well as community outreach. We provide justification including a case example to argue the merits of developing drinking water testing and community outreach programs that include drinking water testing and non-formal education (i.e., public outreach) regarding the importance of drinking water quality testing for human well-being and security. Organizers of drinking water testing programs should: (1) test drinking water quality; (2) develop drinking water quality databases; (3) increase public awareness of drinking water issues; (4) build platforms for improved community outreach; and (5) publish program results that illustrate successful program models that are spatially and temporally transferrable. We anticipate that short-term and intermediate outcomes of this strategy would improve access to drinking water testing, facilitate greater understanding of water quality and increase security through inclusive and equitable water quality testing and outreach programs. Full article
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24 pages, 414 KiB  
Perspective
Challenges to Learners in Interpreting Self as Other, Post COVID-19
by Carol Nash
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020031 - 18 Nov 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4294
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted continuing constraints on the ability of students to interact with teachers and peers. Regarding this imposed segregation, what has not been considered is the effect of learners seeing self as other. With respect to augmentations of their body [...] Read more.
The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted continuing constraints on the ability of students to interact with teachers and peers. Regarding this imposed segregation, what has not been considered is the effect of learners seeing self as other. With respect to augmentations of their body in interpersonal space by, (1) extending the body through witnessing themselves regularly in videoconferencing learning sessions, (2) isolating the body as a result of spending time apart from peers, social distancing at home, and (3) protecting the body through required mask-wearing where learners now consider who they represent in a mask, there are three important ways in which learners have felt unable to recognize themselves as they did pre-COVID-19. This migration from self to other, involving ingroup/outgroup distinctions, will be investigated from a number of perspectives—both sociological and psychological. Why the turning of self into other is problematic to the psyche will be discussed, as will the possible consequences for this ongoing lack of learner recognition long term, including focus on the new norms or embracing self-directed learning. Based on this analysis, the type of mentorship by teachers and parents that may be appropriate for helping learners contend with these changes will be recommended. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges in Education/Higher Education during COVID-19)
17 pages, 290 KiB  
Article
Challenges of Managing Information Security during the Pandemic
by Emelie Mannebäck and Ali Padyab
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020030 - 16 Nov 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 8238
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic of 2019 surprised information security practitioners in the organizations due to the change imposed on employees’ work routines. Employees were asked to work from home, and therefore changes were necessary to reduce information security risks actively. The abrupt change of [...] Read more.
The COVID-19 pandemic of 2019 surprised information security practitioners in the organizations due to the change imposed on employees’ work routines. Employees were asked to work from home, and therefore changes were necessary to reduce information security risks actively. The abrupt change of work environments brought many challenges to the practitioners, which caused them to make decisions regarding organizational information security. This article aims to uncover those challenges through an ethnography study within an organization during the fourteen months of teleworking. On an overarching level, we found four challenges to be of concern: technical security, regulations and policies, employee awareness of security issues, and, finally, preparedness for the new work environment of teleworking. We believe that the challenges brought by the analysis will inspire discussions about the future of research and practice regarding information security management in case of disasters. Full article
27 pages, 3011 KiB  
Article
Online Meeting Challenges in a Research Group Resulting from COVID-19 Limitations
by Carol Nash
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020029 - 12 Nov 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 5155
Abstract
COVID-19 social distancing limitations have resulted in the utilization of hybrid online formats focused on visual contact among learners and teachers. The preferred option has been Zoom. The focus of one voluntary, democratic, self-reflective university research group—grounded in responses to writing prompts—differed. Demanding [...] Read more.
COVID-19 social distancing limitations have resulted in the utilization of hybrid online formats focused on visual contact among learners and teachers. The preferred option has been Zoom. The focus of one voluntary, democratic, self-reflective university research group—grounded in responses to writing prompts—differed. Demanding a safe space for self-reflection and creative questioning of other participants, the private Facebook group was chosen over video conferencing to concentrate on group members’ written responses rather than on visual contact. A narrative research model initiated in 2015, the 2020/21 interaction of the group in the year’s worth of Facebook entries, and the yearend feedback received from group participants, will be compared with previous years when the weekly group met in person. The aim is to determine the appropriateness of the online platform chosen compared with when the group met in person, pre-COVID-19, and suggest changes to improve future online group meetings. The results in relation to COVID-19 limitations indicate that an important aspect of self-directed learning related to trust arising from team mindfulness is lost when face-to-face interaction is eliminated with respect to the democratic nature of these meetings. With online meetings the new standard, maintaining trust requires improvements to online virtual meeting spaces. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges in Education/Higher Education during COVID-19)
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12 pages, 268 KiB  
Perspective
Can Suboptimal Visual Environments Negatively Affect Children’s Cognitive Development?
by Alexandros A. Lavdas and Nikos A. Salingaros
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020028 - 9 Nov 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4050
Abstract
There are indications that children born during the period of COVID-19 lockdown have cognitive development issues, without having been affected by the virus. We discuss here the idea that environmental deprivation—and, especially, the lack of appropriate visual stimulation—might be one source of these [...] Read more.
There are indications that children born during the period of COVID-19 lockdown have cognitive development issues, without having been affected by the virus. We discuss here the idea that environmental deprivation—and, especially, the lack of appropriate visual stimulation—might be one source of these defects. This thought is in line with previous findings in children brought up in orphanages with poor environmental stimulation, hypothesizing that the minimalist architectural style prevailing for the last several decades is among the potential contributing factors. The process of eliminating organized complexity characteristic of organic forms may prove to be detrimental for humanity’s future, providing suboptimal environmental stimulation and opportunities for interaction during the critical stages of brain development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Project Earthrise: From Healing to Flourishing for the Health of People, Places and Planet (Celebrating the 10th Annual Conference of inVIVO Planetary Health, 2021))
9 pages, 722 KiB  
Opinion
The Importance of Domestic Space in the Times of COVID-19
by Marco Aresta and Nikos A. Salingaros
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020027 - 19 Oct 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5832
Abstract
This essay discusses a deep malaise of contemporary architecture, made more obvious by experiencing COVID-19 lockdowns for several months. Evidence-based arguments urge society to improve human health and well-being by re-considering the design of interior and exterior spaces. So far, predictions of how [...] Read more.
This essay discusses a deep malaise of contemporary architecture, made more obvious by experiencing COVID-19 lockdowns for several months. Evidence-based arguments urge society to improve human health and well-being by re-considering the design of interior and exterior spaces. So far, predictions of how design will “improve” after COVID-19 just continue business-as-usual, ignoring accumulated evidence. Yet, the negative emotional experience of families cooped up during the pandemic reveals the failure of the standard approach to designing spaces. An architecture that adapts to human biology and psychology starts with the relatively new understanding of people interacting unconsciously with their environment and broadens it. A traditional design toolkit, augmented by the latest technology, can generate healing spaces as judged by their ability to enhance users’ subjective well-being. We recommend implementing specific design innovations to achieve this goal—replacing industrial-minimalism with biophilic and neuro-based design and using documented patterns that trigger feelings of happiness in users. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Project Earthrise: From Healing to Flourishing for the Health of People, Places and Planet (Celebrating the 10th Annual Conference of inVIVO Planetary Health, 2021))
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14 pages, 1212 KiB  
Viewpoint
Wise Ancestors, Good Ancestors: Why Mindfulness Matters in the Promotion of Planetary Health
by Alan C. Logan, Susan H. Berman, Richard B. Scott, Brian M. Berman and Susan L. Prescott
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020026 - 9 Oct 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4823
Abstract
The concept of planetary health blurs the artificial lines between health at scales of person, place, and planet. It emphasizes the interconnected grand challenges of our time, and underscores the need for integration of biological, psychological, social, and cultural aspects of health in [...] Read more.
The concept of planetary health blurs the artificial lines between health at scales of person, place, and planet. It emphasizes the interconnected grand challenges of our time, and underscores the need for integration of biological, psychological, social, and cultural aspects of health in the modern environment. Here, in our Viewpoint article, we revisit vaccine pioneer Jonas Salk’s contention that wisdom is central to the concept of planetary health. Our perspective is centered on the idea that practical wisdom is associated with decision-making that leads to flourishing—the vitality and fullest potential of individuals, communities, and life on the planet as a whole. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has illustrated the acute consequences of unwise and mindless leadership; yet, wisdom and mindfulness, or lack thereof, is no less consequential to grotesque biodiversity losses, climate change, environmental degradation, resource depletion, the global burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), health inequalities, and social injustices. Since mindfulness is a teachable asset linked to both wisdom and flourishing, we argue that mindfulness deserves much greater attention in the context of planetary health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Project Earthrise: From Healing to Flourishing for the Health of People, Places and Planet (Celebrating the 10th Annual Conference of inVIVO Planetary Health, 2021))
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16 pages, 269 KiB  
Article
Experiences of Opening Up Communicative Spaces for Large-Scope Issues
by Satu Kalliola and Tuula Heiskanen
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020025 - 23 Sep 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2968
Abstract
The continuously changing world creates new challenges, large-scope issues, both at the community and the organizational level. Currently, sustainable development is among the key issues demanding organizational learning and new ways of operation. The paper looks for the potential of Scandinavian communicative-oriented action [...] Read more.
The continuously changing world creates new challenges, large-scope issues, both at the community and the organizational level. Currently, sustainable development is among the key issues demanding organizational learning and new ways of operation. The paper looks for the potential of Scandinavian communicative-oriented action research (AR), applied in dialogue forums, to enhance learning and planning of integrative solutions to meet the needs of various actor groups. The paper links two intertwined AR lines of a Finnish work research institute to the contexts of classic and current AR discussion and their original social conditions in the early 1990s, when they were challenged by a severe recession. The characteristics of communicative spaces applied in the two cases are analysed qualitatively. The data, consisting of case reports, are reread and interpreted in a framework that concretizes Habermasian ideals of free communication. The elements of organisational learning and power embedded in the organisational positions of the participants dealing with large-scope societal issues are made explicit. Free communication and joint agreements of concrete plans require active agency that can be learned in a psychologically and socially safe communicative space where Habermasian lifeworld and system interact. The research shows the malleability of dialogue-based communicative spaces that can be applied in versatile social and organizational conditions. A future option would be a continuous dialogue applied in permanent dialogue structures. Full article
23 pages, 8801 KiB  
Article
Sustainability of Village Tank Cascade Systems of Sri Lanka: Exploring Cascade Anatomy and Socio-Ecological Nexus for Ecological Restoration Planning
by Sujith S. Ratnayake, Lalit Kumar, Punchi B. Dharmasena, Harsha K. Kadupitiya, Champika S. Kariyawasam and Danny Hunter
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020024 - 23 Sep 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 6996
Abstract
Village Tank Cascade Systems (VTCSs) in the Dry Zone of Sri Lanka have evolved as sustainable ecosystems through human interventions to ensure water availability and other services for people and their environs during the last few millennia. However, VTCSs are vulnerable to global [...] Read more.
Village Tank Cascade Systems (VTCSs) in the Dry Zone of Sri Lanka have evolved as sustainable ecosystems through human interventions to ensure water availability and other services for people and their environs during the last few millennia. However, VTCSs are vulnerable to global environmental changes resulting in continual deterioration of ecological health and hydro-socio-ecological status, crucial for the food and livelihood security of rural farming communities in the dry zone. This paper seeks to explore resource systems of the Mahakanumulla VTCS located in Anuradhapura district of Sri Lanka to (i) identify the spatial metrics linked to the sustainability and socio-ecological resilience of the VTCS, and (ii) determine interactions among system elements and their impacts on productivity and restoration challenges. The spatial analysis was conducted using a Digital Elevation Model (DEM), recent digital topographic map layers and Google Earth images to understand the spatial distribution and ensemble of tank environs. Participatory field assessment data were also used to determine socio-ecological nexus and factors that contribute to the reduction of ecological productivity of VTCS. The study revealed that the ensemble of tank environs is significant for providing regulatory and supporting ecosystem services (ES) and synergistic relationships with provisional ES of the VTCS. Results also revealed that the complex land-water-biodiversity-climate and food nexus that determines the productivity of the VTCS could be adopted in VTCS ecological restoration planning. The study presents a comprehensive framework to analyse causal factors and processes leading to reduction of overall productivity linked with variables of socio-ecological properties, vulnerability and resilience of the VTCS landscape. Full article
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12 pages, 257 KiB  
Viewpoint
Reducing the Use of Antimicrobials as a Solution to the Challenge of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): Approaching an Ethical Dilemma through the Lens of Planetary Health
by Samuel O. Abimbola, Melvine Anyango Otieno and Jennifer Cole
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020023 - 13 Sep 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5458
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the greatest challenges facing humanity in the 21st century. Controlled dispensation of antimicrobial drugs is the most echoed solution among many that have been postulated to counter this problem. However, the life-impacting significance of antimicrobials makes this [...] Read more.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the greatest challenges facing humanity in the 21st century. Controlled dispensation of antimicrobial drugs is the most echoed solution among many that have been postulated to counter this problem. However, the life-impacting significance of antimicrobials makes this approach a very complex one, which must be considered under the lens of health and planetary ethics. As the problem of AMR is not peculiar to only a few people, the right to know the risk, as well as decisions as to when and how antimicrobials are used should, not be granted to only a few decision makers, but be used as drivers to advance planetary health knowledge in a way that benefits individuals, society, and future generations. Within an ethical framework, implementing policies that extend the efficacy period of antimicrobials should be considered in a way that balances range, choice, and quality of drugs against stewardship activities. The challenge of AMR cannot be eliminated completely by reduced use of antimicrobials only; understanding how, where and when reduction is necessary, and social structures and patterns (as well as existing health and government systems) are required if any global/national intervention would be successful and equitable. We may well have gone past the stage of adopting precautionary principles as the danger we face presents no iota of uncertainty. The measures to control AMR’s emergence and its spread are well presented. Nevertheless, we must not ere from the path of justice and equity even in the face of certain danger. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Project Earthrise: From Healing to Flourishing for the Health of People, Places and Planet (Celebrating the 10th Annual Conference of inVIVO Planetary Health, 2021))
12 pages, 244 KiB  
Article
Setting Mental Health Priorities in Ghana: A 15-Year Contextual Analysis of the Presidential State of the Nation Address
by Emmanuel Nii-Boye Quarshie, Priscilla Ayebea Davies and Pearl Ama Otoo
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020022 - 10 Sep 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 5887
Abstract
Globally, mental health issues have been neglected and allowed to be suppressed by stigma and discrimination for a very long time, although mental disorders are responsible for about 30% of the global non-fatal disease burden. Thus, the global call for solution to this [...] Read more.
Globally, mental health issues have been neglected and allowed to be suppressed by stigma and discrimination for a very long time, although mental disorders are responsible for about 30% of the global non-fatal disease burden. Thus, the global call for solution to this challenge admonishes governments, donors, and mental health service users to prioritise mental health. Towards this end, speeches by key political actors can be used to garner public support and set out strong arguments for the prioritisation of mental health. Guided by the agenda-setting theory, this study sought to contribute to the evidence on the mental health priorities in Ghana by conducting a summative qualitative content analysis of the state of the nation addresses (SONAs) presented by presidents of Ghana from 2007 to 2021. Findings show that no mental health condition was highlighted in any of the SONAs, and mental health priorities in terms of policy and investment were superficial, inadequate, and woefully incomparable to those of physical health. It is suggested that government should heighten mental health priorities, given that mental disorders are leading the top 10 causes of the years lived with disability burden in the country. Full article
5 pages, 208 KiB  
Concept Paper
Rapid Softness Prediction and Microbial Spoilage Visualization of Whole Tomatoes by Using Hyper/Multispectral Imaging
by Wen-Hao Su
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020021 - 10 Aug 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3237
Abstract
The choice of selecting fruit for canned whole tomatoes is driven by several quality attributes including sweetness, acidity, and softness of tomatoes. Moreover, tomatoes can be contaminated with a variety of molds during cultivation, harvest, and transportation. Conventional evaluation operations for tomato softness [...] Read more.
The choice of selecting fruit for canned whole tomatoes is driven by several quality attributes including sweetness, acidity, and softness of tomatoes. Moreover, tomatoes can be contaminated with a variety of molds during cultivation, harvest, and transportation. Conventional evaluation operations for tomato softness and microbial spoilage are usually time-consuming, destructive, and high-cost. One strategy for rapid tomato sorting is to utilize hyper/multispectral imaging. This paper proposes to improve on traditional broad-band infrared imaging of existing color and dirt sorters by increasing the spectral resolution of the information collected. The findings of this study will characterize the potential of the technology in terms of predicting tomato softness and identification of tomato microbial spoilage for further development by the industry. Full article
8 pages, 838 KiB  
Article
Analyzing Lockdown Policies and Their Effectiveness in Romania and Hungary
by Stefania Kerekes, Ariadna Georgiana-Eugenia Badea and Dragos Paun
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020020 - 4 Aug 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3563
Abstract
There has been a debate on the efficiency of lockdown policies worldwide, and several researchers have studied this aspect by trying to implement different statistical models. The aim of the research was to compare two countries with similar lockdown policies and observe the [...] Read more.
There has been a debate on the efficiency of lockdown policies worldwide, and several researchers have studied this aspect by trying to implement different statistical models. The aim of the research was to compare two countries with similar lockdown policies and observe the impact of the total lockdown policy on the spread of the COVID-19 disease. Taking in consideration that the total lockdown in Romania lasted for 52 days and in Hungary for 54 days, we would like to see how the infection rate changed with every week of the lockdown by obtaining an average for every week (7 days) divided by the total lockdown days in each country. The values that we took in consideration are as follows: the daily infected cases, the daily infected cases/million, the daily cases of death and the daily cases of death/million in both countries. We tried to apply the same rule after the end of the total lockdown and observe the outcomes. The results showed that the minimum number of days to observe the effects of total lockdown and the effects after the lockdown was 21 (3 weeks) in both countries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Planetary Health)
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14 pages, 287 KiB  
Article
What the EdTech Experience in Refugee Camps Can Teach Us in Times of School Closure. Blended Learning, Modular and Mobile Programs Are Key to Keeping Disadvantaged Learners in Education
by Eilis Tobin and Carola Hieker
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020019 - 29 Jul 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 6873
Abstract
COVID-19 is reshaping education. UNESCO estimates that at the peak in April 2020 COVID-19 disrupted the education of 1.5 billion enrolled learners in schools and universities in 190 countries. This period of unparalleled educational interruption has prompted a rapid reaction, a move to [...] Read more.
COVID-19 is reshaping education. UNESCO estimates that at the peak in April 2020 COVID-19 disrupted the education of 1.5 billion enrolled learners in schools and universities in 190 countries. This period of unparalleled educational interruption has prompted a rapid reaction, a move to explore online distance learning solutions. Simultaneously, it has exposed the challenges and complexity of distance learning utilising Educational Technology (EdTech). Despite the many technological innovations, these challenges are not new to refugee learners, their educators and remote learning technology providers. In this article, the authors sought to explore frontline practitioners’ ‘lived experience’ of providing education utilising EdTech when education is disrupted by forced displacement. A small scale, explorative, qualitative study was conducted with educators in refugee camps and urban settings, in Greece, Jordan, Kenya and Rwanda, prior to the pandemic. Expert interviews revealed that EdTech programmes cannot be a stand-alone solution. Blended learning programmes that are context-specific, modular, optimised for mobile technology and delivered by trained and supported teachers are the most effective. The article ends with a reflection on how these findings can be applied globally when learning is disrupted by whatever means and lead to an equitable and sustainable recovery for all. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges in Education/Higher Education during COVID-19)
13 pages, 272 KiB  
Article
Behavioral Intention towards Dietary Diversity among Adult People Living with HIV in Public Hospitals in Southwest Ethiopia Using Theory of Planned Behavior—An Explanatory Study
by Aderajew Nigusse Teklehaimanot, Tefera Belachew, Esayas Kebede Gudina, Masrie Getnet, Demuma Amdisa and Lelisa Sena Dadi
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020018 - 5 Jul 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3540
Abstract
Dietary diversity is a crucial element of inclusive care for people living with HIV (PLWHIV). Particularly in resource-limited countries where undernutrition and food insecurity prevail, low intention and poor attitude towards diversified diets are the common challenges. The aim of this study was [...] Read more.
Dietary diversity is a crucial element of inclusive care for people living with HIV (PLWHIV). Particularly in resource-limited countries where undernutrition and food insecurity prevail, low intention and poor attitude towards diversified diets are the common challenges. The aim of this study was to assess the intention towards dietary diversity behavior among adult PLWHIV in Jimma Zone public hospitals, Southwest Ethiopia. A hospital-based survey study was carried out in five public institutions among 403 sampled adult PLWHIV. Data were entered into Epi-Data (The EpiData Association, Odense, Denmark) and exported to SPSS version 20 (IBM, Armonk, NY, USA) for analysis. Relationships among variables were assessed using correlation coefficients. A multivariable linear regression model was fitted to assess predictors of behavioral intention towards dietary diversity at p-value ≤ 0.05. The quantitative data were supplemented by qualitative data, which were collected through key informant interviews and analyzed thematically. The significant predictors of intention to use dietary diversity were attitude (β = 0.196, p < 0.01) and subjective norm (β = 0.390, p < 0.01) of the adult PLWHIV. The constructs of theory of planned behavior (TPB) independently explained the variance in intention towards dietary diversity by 25.7%. All the intermediate, proximal and distal components of the theory of planned behavior (TPB) explained the final model finding 32.2% of variance in the intention to use dietary diversity. The qualitative findings indicated that delivery of HIV care requires a sense of livelihood development, economical improvement and creating a sense of ownership for sustainable HIV care by creating behavioral change at the individual level. Conclusion: Dietary inadequacy was strongly correlated with being in the sociodemographic groups that are at heightened risk of adverse clinical outcomes. It is worthwhile to understand behavioral intention as a potential determinant of malnutrition and the Poor ART outcomes rather than symptomatic treatment of malnutrition with food by prescription. Full article
10 pages, 514 KiB  
Article
Determinants of Smallholders’ Food Security Status in Kalu District, Northern Ethiopia
by Abdela Mohammed, Solomon Bizuayehu Wassie and Ermias Tesfaye Teferi
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020017 - 25 Jun 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 6882
Abstract
This study analyzed the determinants of rural households’ food security in the Kallu district of the Amhara region, Northern Ethiopia. The study used primary data collected from 395 randomly selected rural households. The study employed descriptive statistics and a binary logit model to [...] Read more.
This study analyzed the determinants of rural households’ food security in the Kallu district of the Amhara region, Northern Ethiopia. The study used primary data collected from 395 randomly selected rural households. The study employed descriptive statistics and a binary logit model to estimate the status and determinants of smallholders’ food security, respectively. Of the total sample households, 47.30% are food insecure. The binary logit model results showed that sex and education level of the household head, livestock ownership, credit access, and technology adoption have positive and significant effects on food security, while age and market distance are negatively associated with the probability to be food secure. The results suggest that improving access to marketing and financial services will contribute to improving the food security status of smallholders. Full article
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3 pages, 181 KiB  
Communication
Tackling Rural Health, Energy, … and Technological Issues All at Once: A Call for a Global Interdisciplinary Platform for Strengthening Rural Setting Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic
by Farshad Amiraslani
Challenges 2021, 12(2), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe12020016 - 25 Jun 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3283
Abstract
The recent COVID-19 pandemic has revealed flaws in rural settings where most people live without the necessary tools, income, and knowledge to tackle such unprecedented global challenges. Here, I argue that despite the research studies conducted on rural areas, these have not solved [...] Read more.
The recent COVID-19 pandemic has revealed flaws in rural settings where most people live without the necessary tools, income, and knowledge to tackle such unprecedented global challenges. Here, I argue that despite the research studies conducted on rural areas, these have not solved rising rural issues, notably poverty and illiteracy. I propound a global institute to be formed by governments that provides a platform for empowering rural communities through better training, skills, and competencies. Such global endeavour will ensure the remaining rural communities withstand future pandemics if they occur. Full article
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