Objectives This scoping review synthesised mHealth interventions for diabetes management in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), exploring their outcomes and effectiveness, implementation barriers and facilitators, and identifying evidence gaps to inform future research and practice. Methods Following Arksey and O'Malley’s five-stage framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, we systematically searched seven databases for English-language studies published from 2015 onwards. After screening 2,135 titles and abstracts and reviewing 213 full texts, 20 studies were included. Findings were synthesised narratively. Results The 20 studies, conducted across 16 LMICs, evaluated SMS-based interventions (n = 6), mobile applications (n = 6), voice-based interventions (n = 5), and multicomponent digital platforms (n = 3). Most targeted type 2 diabetes (n = 13). Primary aims included glycaemic control (n = 15), diabetes self-management (n = 15), medication adherence (n = 8), and diabetes knowledge (n = 7), with additional improvements reported in health literacy and self-care behaviours. Common barriers included limited digital literacy, poor access to devices or connectivity, usability challenges, and low user engagement. Key facilitators included high mobile access, involvement of healthcare providers or peer educators, use of local languages, and social support. Evidence gaps included limited long-term evaluation, cultural adaptation beyond language, integration with health systems, and cost-effectiveness data. Conclusion mHealth interventions can support diabetes care in LMICs, with effectiveness driven more by design and system integration than by technological complexity. Sustainable impact requires simple, culturally relevant, and user-centred approaches that combine digital tools with human support, strengthen digital literacy, and are embedded within existing health systems.

Introduction: The observed decline in children's active school transport (AST) across numerous countries over recent decades necessitates targeted, multi-level interventions to reverse this trend. However, data on young people's preferred AST interventions is lacking. This study aimed to explore children's preferences for AST interventions and assess differences between AST users and non-users among primary and secondary school students. Methods: In 2023, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in Perth, Western Australia with n = 742 primary school students from 23 schools and n = 412 secondary school students from 9 schools. The survey assessed AST frequency, preferred transport mode, and AST intervention preferences, which included 'built environment changes' (n = 7), 'policy changes' (n = 3), 'public transport' (n = 2), 'school-based programs and services' (n = 6) and 'community awareness' (n = 3) initiatives. Results: For primary school students, the most common mode of transport was by car. However, the most preferred method was walking. For secondary school students, the most common and the most preferred method was by car. Regardless of age or AST use, the majority of students' most preferred interventions were 'built environment changes'. These included: 'more safe crossings near the school', 'paths on both sides of every road within the school catchment area', and 'dedicated bike paths separated from the roads'. Conclusions: This study provides valuable insights into the interventions students self-report as most effective for increasing their AST. The findings indicate a strong preference for built environment modifications among the top interventions selected by students, suggesting built environment changes should be a priority in developing future AST interventions.

OBJECTIVES:To summarise the current evidence on the involvement of dental hygienists (DHs) in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) with respect to the feasibility of integration improved oral health for residents with dementia and multidisciplinary collaboration. BACKGROUND:The oral health of RACF residents with dementia is reported to be poor. However, little is known about how DHs can be integrated into RACFs to improve oral health, particularly as part of a multidisciplinary team. METHOD:A scoping review was undertaken in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) method. Multiple databases were searched for peer-reviewed articles and grey literature that included a DH working in a RACF with dementia patients, or as part of a multidisciplinary team. Data were charted using a modified version of the JBI source of evidence template. RESULTS:Fifty-eight studies were identified for inclusion. Integration strategies were categorised as support-focused or service-focused, but there was little evaluation of their feasibility. Five key facilitators to multidisciplinary collaboration were identified: using multiple strategies; clearly defining roles; changes to existing administrative systems; fostering multidisciplinary collaboration skills; and encouraging innovation. However, no examples of collaboration within RACFs were identified. CONCLUSION:There has been limited effort in multidisciplinary collaboration or integration of DHs into RACFs with some evidence that both support-focused and service-focused strategies can improve the oral health of residents with dementia.

Having a walkable built environment is important to encourage active school transport. The aim of this study was to measure the walkability of all Perth, Western Australia (WA) schools and investigate whether differences in walkability exist by school type, socioeconomic status (SES) and/or subregion. Geographic Information Systems technology was used to measure walkability (i.e., traffic exposure and pedestrian connectivity) surrounding all Perth schools ( n = 651) in 2021. Walkability scores and their individual components were compared using odds ratios and one-way ANOVAs with post-hoc comparisons by school type (primary, secondary and K-12; government and non-government), school SES and subregion. The majority of Perth schools (73.8%) were below the WA Planning Commission’s target for a walkable catchment area. Neighbourhoods surrounding high SES schools were significantly more walkable than neighbourhoods surrounding medium and low SES schools (mean walkability scores: 12.4, 10.5, 10.1, respectively, p < .001). Neighbourhoods surrounding schools located in the Central subregion (mean 12.3) were significantly more walkable than neighbourhoods surrounding schools located in the North-West (mean 11.0, p = .024), South Metropolitan (mean 10.0, p < .001) and North-East (mean 8.4, p < .001) subregions. No significant differences in walkability index scores were found for school type. This study found a large proportion of Perth schools were surrounded by disconnected street networks and that neighbourhoods surrounding high SES schools were, on average, more walkable than neighbourhoods surrounding medium and low SES schools. The results highlight the importance of modifying the built environment to increase opportunities for active school transport, particularly in low and medium socio-economic areas.

Risk assessment tools used to assess justice-involved women have been predominantly developed using male offenders, with validations for females having mixed results. Female-specific risk assessment tools are not well established, and validations are limited. In terms of treatment, either programmes in various jurisdictions have been developed specifically for females, or addendums are available to assist in the facilitation of programmes initially developed for male offenders. The efficacy of these has been varied with gender-responsive programmes proving to be more successful in the reduction of reoffending if justice-involved women follow a gender-specific pathway to offending than if they follow a non-gender-specific pathway. This paper discusses gender differences in offending and provides an overview of assessment and treatment of justice-involved women in Australia, the UK, New Zealand and Canada. The assessment and treatment practices for justice-involved women are viewed through an evidence-based lens, and opportunities for future development are identified.

Female offender risk assessment is predominantly based on criminogenic factors that predict reoffending in males. Research indicates there are criminogenic factors specific to female offenders, and certain factors linked to offending for both sexes have greater impact on female offenders. This paper extends current research using a Western Australian sample to determine whether findings are replicated with an Australian cohort. Gender differences in the criminogenic profile of 1704 violent offenders (9% female), assessed using the Level of Service/Risk, Need, Responsivity (LS/RNR) and Violence Risk Scale (VRS), were analysed using a matched sample study design. There were significant gender differences on all components of the LS/RNR, except criminal history. In the subsequent matched study, these differences varied, and females scored significantly lower on all VRS-SV items, except age. Gender differences in violence risk scores were clear, providing support for gender-responsive assessment and treatment of violent female offenders, with further validation needed.

The objective of the study was to identify whether creating a responsive, respectful and trustworthy environment that provides free dental care for clients who are homeless using volunteer dental professionals was effective in meeting their oral health needs in Fremantle, Western Australia. Qualitative research conducted between October 2018 and August 2019 was guided by a social constructivist paradigm to gather and analyse data. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with adults experiencing homelessness accessing a community dental clinic and health providers and other stakeholders involved in its establishment, management and service delivery. An inductive approach to analysis was used to organise themes under the categories of 'establishing the oral health clinic' (OHC) and 'responses to the implementation of the clinic' Thirty-nine semi-structured interviews were conducted across eight participant groups: clients, executive management, the oral health clinical reference group, volunteer dentists, employed staff, nursing students, volunteer staff and other stakeholders. Key findings across all groups included positive responses to the establishment and implementation of the OHC, the quality of care and the safe and respectful environment in which services were delivered. Challenges related to sustainability include uncertainty around ongoing funding and recruitment of dental professionals. Whilst volunteer dental services fill a gap in meeting the complex needs of this population group, mainstream services must consider and address issues of equity in this context. Findings can be used to guide this process that includes creating environments of respect and trust where adults who are homeless or at risk of homelessness feel safe, welcomed and more likely to return to the service.

There is an over-representation of Aboriginal/Indigenous people in the criminal justice systems of Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United States, with offences committed by male and female Aboriginal prisoners predominantly involving physical violence against a person. Risk assessment tools used have not been developed for Aboriginal people, and validations have produced varied results. The current study focused on violent offenders and investigated the differences between four demographic groups - Aboriginal females (AF), non-Aboriginal females (NAF), Aboriginal males (AM) and non-Aboriginal males (NAM) - on the Level of Service/Risk, Need, Responsivity (LS/RNR) and Violence Risk Scale (VRS; including Screening Version, VRS-SV). Significant differences were evident between all groups; however, there were limited differences between AF and NAF with differences on the VRS-SV primarily due to static factors. Aboriginality did not appear to elevate risk for violent females. The limitations of the study are discussed plus the recommendations for future research.

At least 10% of the Nepalese population is estimated to be working abroad. Typically, those abroad are young men with families from agricultural backgrounds. Research regarding the impact on the family left behind in Nepal is growing but has focused on singular issues rather than the multifaceted effects of migration. This study aimed to gain an in-depth understanding of the challenges and benefits of migration for wives and children left behind. Thirty-two qualitative semi-structured interviews were undertaken in Kathmandu and Kaski districts of Nepal. Eligible participants were women who had a husband who had migrated abroad for work and a child under the age of five. Interviews were conducted in Nepali, translated and transcribed to English, then coded and analysed using inductive Thematic Analysis. Three overarching themes were developed: Migration as a livelihood strategy, Migration as a trade-off, and Adaptation to the situation. The financial benefits of migration included improvements in children’s education and access to food and housing. Challenges identified were women’s increased labour burden inside and outside the home, psychosocial stress, and changed child-father relationships. Change in women’s empowerment was dependent on socio-demographic factors. Migration often resulted in the improvement of economic circumstances. However, challenges being faced by women and children largely shifted from financial to emotional. The effects of migration are mediated by contextual factors. Given the ongoing reliance on migration for work, strategies should be employed to optimise the benefits and mitigate the consequences of those who remain.

ISSUES ADDRESSEDA large proportion of pre-schoolers do not meet the recommended three hours of daily physical activity. A potential source of daily physical activity could be that provided via the family dog. This qualitative study aimed to explore the barriers and motivators to pre-schoolers playing with their dog and participating in family dog walks.METHODSTwelve in-depth interviews were conducted with parents of pre-schoolers who owned a dog. A semi-structured interview guide was used, and transcripts were analysed thematically.RESULTSFactors influencing pre-schoolers playing with their dog and participating in family dog walks included parents' level of attachment to their dog, parental history of dog ownership, parent modelling of safe dog play, type of play the family dog enjoys and proximity to dog- and child-friendly destinations. Other factors such as the size, level of socialisation and perceived exercise requirements of the dog, physical environment factors such as backyard size and individual factors such as time and existing commitments were also reported.CONCLUSIONSA number of dog, individual and physical environment specific factors should be considered when promoting pre-schooler physical activity through dog walking and play. SO WHAT?: A large proportion of pre-schoolers do not meet the recommended three hours of daily physical activity. In Australia, 43% of Australian households with children aged four to five own a dog. Dog-facilitated physical activity through family dog walks and active play could be an effective strategy for increasing pre-schooler physical activity.

This chapter describes the importance of physical activity within the context of public health nutrition, and introduces key concepts and methods of assessing physical activity in populations. It examines physical activity within a behavioural epidemiology framework. The behavioural epidemiology of physical activity is examined throughout the life course, with a focus on youth, adults and older adults. Few studies have examined environmental influences on physical activity specifically among older adults. The chapter shows a clear need to promote physical activity across populations to improve public health. Considering physical activity in the context of public health nutrition is critical, given that poor nutrition and inadequate levels of physical activity both contribute to the development of many increasingly prevalent non-communicable diseases. A significant proportion of the population do not meet public health recommendations to accrue one hour per day of physical activity among youth and 30 minutes of physical activity on most days among adults and older adults.

BACKGROUND:The homeless face significant barriers accessing dental care. Community-centred dental clinics might provide more accessible care to this group. This descriptive epidemiological study aimed to measure oral health perceptions and client satisfaction among homeless and similarly disadvantaged adults receiving community-centred dental care.METHODS:A sample of 79 clients attending St Patrick's Oral Health Clinic completed Locker's Global Oral Health Item, the Oral Health Impact Profile 14 and the Client Satisfaction Questionnaire 4.RESULTS:High levels of satisfaction with St Patrick's Oral Health Clinic were based on positive staff attitudes, low cost, time effectiveness and staff sensitivity to anxiety. Ideas for improvement included shorter treatment waiting lists, offering additional treatment types and better communication and advertisement of the service. Compared to the general Australian population, participants reported a relatively poor self-perception of oral health and a high prevalence and severity of oral health impacts.CONCLUSIONS:Participants experienced significant personal and social impacts due to their oral conditions. High levels of client satisfaction reflect the value of community-centred dental care for this group. An understanding of factors influencing satisfaction might be useful for similar services providing oral care to homeless and similarly disadvantaged groups.

Assessing an offender's level of risk is a vital step in the determination of treatment services; however, risk assessment tools have been consistently developed using a male cohort. Geraghty and Woodham (2015) conducted a review to determine the validity of risk assessment tools for females and found the Level of Service Inventory (LSI) to be the most valid. The LSI has been further developed and additional risk assessment tools have been included in the suite of assessments across various international jurisdictions; therefore, an updated review is necessary to encompass subsequent research. The current review is an international investigation into the relevance of risk assessment tools for females; however, Australia has not carried out extensive research in this area, particularly Western Australia which has an overrepresentation of Aboriginal offenders. As such, the focus was on studies that included risk assessment tools used in Australia including the Level of Service/Risk, Need, Responsivity (LS/RNR), the Violence Risk Scale (VRS), the Psychopathy Checklist (PCL-R) and the Historic, Clinical and Risk 20 (HCR-20). Five databases were searched and included OVID Embase, OVID Medline, OVID PsycInfo, OVID full text and PsycARTICLES and elicited 610 studies with a further three sourced from gray literature. The articles were assessed based on pre-determined criteria which resulted in 18 studies reviewed in detail. It was identified that all four risk assessment tools were valid for use with female offenders; however, this was not consistent with the findings from a single Australian study, likely due to the combination of a small sample and low base rates of reoffending. Further research is needed on gender comparisons to consider potential gender differences in factors and items that form the risk assessment tools so that treatment and risk management pans may be optimised for female offenders.

Issue addressed: Despite being viewed as a core competency for public health professionals, public health advocacy lacks a prominent place in the public health literature and receives minimal coverage in university curricula. The Public Health Advocacy Institute of Western Australia (PHAIWA) sought to fill this gap by establishing an online e-mentoring program for public health professionals to gain knowledge through skill-based activities and engaging in a mentoring relationship with an experienced public health advocate. This study is a qualitative evaluation of the online e-mentoring program.Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with program participants at the conclusion of the 12-month program to examine program benefits and determine the perceived contribution of individual program components to overall advocacy outcomes.Results: Increased mentee knowledge, skills, level of confidence and experience, and expanded public health networks were reported. Outcomes were dependent on participants' level of commitment, time and location barriers, mentoring relationship quality, adaptability to the online format and the relevance of activities for application to participants' workplace context. Program facilitators had an important role through the provision of timely feedback and maintaining contact with participants.Conclusion: An online program that combines public health advocacy content via skill-based activities with mentoring from an experienced public health advocate is a potential strategy to build advocacy capacity in the public health workforce.So what? Integrating advocacy as a core component of professional development programs will help counteract current issues surrounding hesitancy by public health professionals to proactively engage in advocacy, and ensure that high quality, innovative and effective advocacy leadership continues in the Australian public health workforce.

Background Peer assisted learning (PAL) has been described as “the development of knowledge and skill through active help and support among status equals or matched companions”. To enhance the learning experience of health professions students and improve collaborative and collegial learning, six pilot Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) projects were conducted across a health science faculty. Methods A responsive mixed method evaluation design was applied to explore the adequacy of the preparation for PAL, the impact PAL had on student attainment of examination, consultation, communication and feedback skills and to explore students’ learning experiences through PAL. Results The 149 participants agreed the training programme was well organised, offered a safe learning environment and prepared the participant for the PAL activity. The impact of PAL included improvements in students’ confidence and ability to give feedback and developed students’ teaching, clinical and communication skills. Qualitative analysis revealed participants experienced deeper learning through teaching and learning from their peers, became more open to giving and receiving feedback and valued the comfortable/safe learning environment offered through PAL. Conclusion Providing appropriate training in peer teaching and feedback and the schools engagement and openness to peer learning in the classroom and clinical setting enhances students’ peer assisted learning experience.

Physical activity (PA) parenting research has proliferated over the past decade, with findings verifying the influential role that parents play in children's emerging PA behaviors. This knowledge, however, has not translated into effective family-based PA interventions. During a preconference workshop to the 2012 International Society for Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity annual meeting, a PA parenting workgroup met to: (1) Discuss challenges in PA parenting research that may limit its translation, (2) identify explanations or reasons for such challenges, and (3) recommend strategies for future research. Challenges discussed by the workgroup included a proliferation of disconnected and inconsistently measured constructs, a limited understanding of the dimensions of PA parenting, and a narrow conceptualization of hypothesized moderators of the relationship between PA parenting and child PA. Potential reasons for such challenges emphasized by the group included a disinclination to employ theory when developing measures and examining predictors and outcomes of PA parenting as well as a lack of agreed-upon measurement standards. Suggested solutions focused on the need to link PA parenting research with general parenting research, define and adopt rigorous standards of measurement, and identify new methods to assess PA parenting. As an initial step toward implementing these recommendations, the workgroup developed a conceptual model that: (1) Integrates parenting dimensions from the general parenting literature into the conceptualization of PA parenting, (2) draws on behavioral and developmental theory, and (3) emphasizes areas which have been neglected to date including precursors to PA parenting and effect modifiers.

BACKGROUND:Understanding the influences on physical activity is crucial, particularly among important target groups such as adolescent girls. This study describes cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between parenting style and girls' participation in organized sport, walking/cycling trips and objectively assessed moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA).METHODS:Data were collected from adolescent girls (n=222) and their parents in 2004 and again in 2006. Parents self-reported their demographic characteristics and parenting style. Girls self-reported their organized sport participation and weekly walking/cycling trips, while MVPA was assessed using accelerometers. Linear regression and interaction analyses were performed. Interactions between socio-demographic factors and parenting style with organized sport, walking/cycling trips and MVPA are presented.RESULTS:There were cross-sectional associations between authoritative (B=-0.45, p=0.042) and indulgent (B=-0.56, p=0.002) parenting and the number of walking/cycling trips, and authoritarian (B=0.27, p=0.033) parenting and frequency of organized sport. Significant interactions included those between: family status, authoritative parenting and daily (p=0.048) and week day (p=0.013) MVPA; education, indulgent parenting and MVPA on weekend days (p=0.006); and, employment, authoritarian parenting and duration and frequency of organized sport (p=0.004), highlighting the complexity of these relationships. Longitudinal analyses revealed significant decreases in organized sport and MVPA, significant increases in walking/cycling trips and no significant associations between parenting and physical activity.CONCLUSION:Parenting styles appear to influence walking and cycling trips among adolescent girls, though not physical activity within other domains. Socio-demographic characteristics interact with the relationships between parenting and physical activity. While these findings can inform the development of family-based interventions to improve child and adolescent health, the direction of the observed associations and the number of associations approaching significance suggest the need to further explore this area.