bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring microbial diversity and biosynthetic potential in zoo and wildlife animal microbiomes
Authors: Schmartz Georges P. , Rehner Jacqueline , Schuff Miriam J. , Molano Leidy-Alejandra G. , Becker Sören L. , Krawczyk Marcin , Tagirdzhanov Azat , Gurevich Alexey , Francke Richard , Müller Rolf , Keller Verena , Keller Andreas
Published: September 2024

Understanding human, animal, and environmental microbiota is essential for advancing global health and combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR). We investigate the oral and gut microbiota of 48 animal species in captivity, comparing them to those of wildlife animals. Specifically, we characterize the microbiota composition, metabolic pathways, AMR genes, and biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) encoding the production of specialized metabolites. Our results reveal a high diversity of microbiota, with 585 novel species-level genome bins (SGBs) and 484 complete BGCs identified. Functional gene analysis of microbiomes shows diet-dependent variations. Furthermore, by comparing our findings to wildlife-derived microbiomes, we observe the impact of captivity on the animal microbiome, including examples of converging microbiome compositions. Importantly, our study identifies AMR genes against commonly used veterinary antibiotics, as well as resistance to vancomycin, a critical antibiotic in human medicine. These findings underscore the importance of the ‘One Health’ approach and the potential for zoonotic transmission of pathogenic bacteria and AMR. Overall, our study contributes to a better understanding of the complexity of the animal microbiome and highlights its BGC diversity relevant to the discovery of novel antimicrobial compounds.
Improved prediction of PFAS partitioning with PPLFERs and QSPRs
Authors: Brown Trevor N. , Armitage James M. , Sangion Alessandro , Arnot Jon A.
Published: September 2024

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are chemicals of high concern and are undergoing hazard and risk assessment worldwide.
Photocatalytic NO removal: complete oxidation and reduction reaction for by-product inhibition and end-product recovery
Authors: Cui Wen , Wang Jiaqi , Li Yan , Liu Pingqu , Dong Fan
Published: September 2024

Photocatalysis is an eco-friendly and cost-effective method to realize the purification of ppb-level NO, and the end-product (nitrate/ammonia) of the photocatalytic NO complete oxidation/reduction reaction can be further recycled.
Synthetic vs. natural antimicrobial agents for safer textiles: a comparative review
Authors: Bibi Aqsa , Afza Gul , Afzal Zoya , Farid Mujahid , Sumrra Sajjad Hussain , Hanif Muhammad Asif , Kolita Kama Jinadasa Bedigama Kankanamge , Zubair Muhammad
Published: September 2024

Textiles in all forms act as carriers in transmitting pathogens and provide a medium of microbial growth, especially in those fabrics which are used in sports, medical and innerwear clothing.
Optimised syntheses and purifications of 3-aryl/heterocyclic dihydrobis- and hydrotris-(pyrazolyl)borate ligands as their alkali salts
Authors: Thomas Jarrod R. , Mifsud Jonathan T. , Sulway Scott A.
Published: September 2024

The optimised synthesis and purification of poly(pyrazolyl)borate ligands is detailed for their use in coordination chemistry, to which we implore others to adopt.
Mixed-conducting ceramic membrane reactors for hydrogen production
Authors: Tong Jingjing , Zhang Peng , Zhuang Fuwei , Zheng Yanyan , Liu Binyan , Qiao Xiangping , Zhu Xuefeng
Published: September 2024

Hydrogen is widely used in industrial chemistry and acts as a promising clean energy carrier that can be produced from different hydrocarbons and water.
Structural and solvent modulation of symmetry-breaking charge-transfer pathways in molecular triads
Authors: Govind Chinju , Balanikas Evangelos , Sanil Gana , Gryko Daniel T. , Vauthey Eric
Published: September 2024

Ultrafast vibrational spectroscopy reveals that centrosymmetric dihydropyrrylopyrrole-based triads can follow three distinct photo-induced symmetry-breaking charge-transfer pathways, depending on the substituents and solvent.
Is there a lizard down that spider burrow? Microhabitat influences spider burrow occupancy by the endangered pygmy bluetongue
Authors: Michael Kimberley H. , Baring Ryan , Gardner Michael G.
Published: September 2024

Context Reptiles partition their activity among their microhabitats for thermoregulatory, predatory, and refuge opportunities. We investigated whether a habitat specialist, the endangered pygmy bluetongue (Tiliqua adelaidensis), preferentially occupied vacant spider burrows in specific microhabitats in agricultural grasslands. Aims We investigated whether (1) microhabitat availability influenced associations of lizards occupying burrows among four populations, (2) lizard microhabitat preferences varied over time and, (3) whether a correlation was present between lizard body condition and the occupancy of spider burrows in specific microhabitats. Methods We assessed the microhabitat surrounding pygmy bluetongue-occupied spider burrows and unoccupied burrows that fit the criteria to be potentially suitable for pygmy bluetongue occupancy among four populations over two field seasons. We used the presence or absence of a lizard within a spider burrow to generate models to assess the probability of lizard occupancy to test whether pygmy bluetongues exhibited microhabitat preferences when occupying a spider burrow. Key results We found that pygmy bluetongues were strongly positively associated with burrows on an angle and were negatively associated with burrows surrounded by bare ground, rock, lichen, and that were further from vegetation. Microhabitat preferences varied among populations and time, which may have been influenced by habitat availability at each site and season. We also found that pygmy bluetongue body condition was positively associated with greater rock cover; however, rock availability did not exceed 10% cover, which suggests that it may have been an incidental association owing to the low sample size of caught lizards or was affected by above-average rainfall. Conclusions Microhabitat preferences exhibited by habitat specialists such as the pygmy bluetongue may differ when inhabiting locations that differ in their availability of high-quality habitat. Implications Our results have implications for selecting appropriate microhabitats when installing artificial burrows for lizards at future translocation sites and land-management implications to ensure landscape heterogeneity of benefit for successful conservation.
Optical nonlinearity of thin film lithium niobate: devices and recent progress
Authors: Wang Lei , Du Haoyang , Zhang Xiuquan , Chen Feng
Published: September 2024

Thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN), also known as lithium niobate on insulator, is an important integrated optical platform due to its broad transparency window (from ultraviolet to mid-infrared) and exceptional nonlinear optical (NLO) properties. TFLN is a revolutionary technology that revitalizes micro/nano photonics based on LN, which holds prime importance in on-chip frequency conversion owing to its remarkable NLO properties. This review focuses on the optical nonlinearity of thin film lithium niobate and its applications in integrated optics. We commence with a brief overview of the TFLN platform. Followed by an introduction to the common device structures. We then present the recent advancements of TFLN in NLO frequency conversion, including χ
(2) based optical frequency generation processes (second harmonic generation, sum frequency generation, and difference frequency generation, etc), frequency comb generation, and supercontinuum generation, etc. Finally, we propose future prospects for nonlinear photonic integrated circuits based on the TFLN platform.
Cyclicity of slow–fast cycles with one self-intersection point and two nilpotent contact points*
Authors: Yao Jinhui , Huang Jicai , Huzak Renato , Ruan Shigui
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we study the cyclicity of slow–fast cycles with one self-intersection point and two nilpotent contact points in planar slow–fast systems, where the nilpotent contact point is a jump point or a slow–fast Hopf point. These slow–fast cycles can be classified into three cases based on the two nilpotent contact points: (i) both are generic jump points, (ii) one is a generic jump point and the other is a slow–fast Hopf point, and (iii) both are slow–fast Hopf points. By using slow divergence integrals and entry–exit functions, we show that the cyclicity of slow–fast cycles with one self-intersection point and two generic jump points (or one generic jump point and one slow–fast Hopf point) is at most two, and the cyclicity of slow–fast cycles with one self-intersection point and two slow–fast Hopf points is at most three under some specific conditions. Finally, we apply the main results to two predator-prey models.
Recent progress in soft robots: principles, designs, and applications
Authors: Li Yuxin , Wang Hainuo , Li Xin , Wang Yu , Lu Sheng , Tang Qifu , Luo Jiufei , Yang Ping-an
Published: September 2024

With advancements in the manufacturing industry persisting, soft robots have experienced rapid development, progressively emerging as a pivotal focus in the future trajectory of robotic technology. As a new type of robot technology, soft robots have significant differences from traditional robots in terms of principles, driving methods, design control, and other aspects. Here, we sort out and summarize the latest developments in soft robotics. Firstly, typical principles and driving methods were introduced, including rope drive, variable stiffness drive (gas negative pressure, intelligent fluids, etc), electromagnetic drive, and so on. Secondly, the main materials and characteristics of soft robots are analyzed, including hydrogels, shape memory alloys, photosensitive materials, electromagnetic rheological elastomer, biodegradable materials, etc. Then, typical soft robot structures and processing methods were introduced, including fluid static skeleton structures, muscle fluid static skeleton structures, and others. Finally, the problems of soft robots are analyzed, and the future development direction and importance are summarized. This paper highlights the recent progress in smart functional materials, typical biomimetic structures, and assembly methods applicable to soft robots, which is expected to assist the development and advancement of the next generation of soft robots.
Design and manufacturing of mechanical parts based on CAD and CAM technology
Authors: Ye Li
Published: September 2024

This paper comprehensively discusses the core applications and innovation strategies of CAD/CAM technology in mechanical parts manufacturing, with a special focus on automatic path planning, CNC programming, multi-axis and high-speed machining technology, as well as intelligent upgrading of quality control and production management. By introducing advanced models such as Deep Graph Neural Reinforcement Learning Path Planner (DGNet-RPP), it demonstrates how to utilize the fusion of Deep Reinforcement Learning and Graph Neural Network to adaptively optimize the tool path planning of complex parts to ensure machining efficiency and accuracy. Meanwhile, the importance of optimization and post-processing techniques for NC programming, such as simulated annealing and ant colony optimization, is emphasized to improve machining efficiency and code adaptability. The implementation of multi-axis machining and high-speed machining technology has greatly promoted the progress of complex parts machining accuracy and surface quality, especially in high-end manufacturing fields such as aerospace. In addition, the article also explains the key role of CAM systems in quality control and production scheduling, how to ensure the quality of parts through real-time monitoring and data analysis, as well as through advanced planning and scheduling to optimize the production process, reduce costs, and improve market responsiveness.
Estimation of SOC for Li-ion battery-powered three-wheeled electric vehicle using machine learning methods
Authors: Rout Smitanjali , Samal Sudhansu Kumar , Mahapatro Soumya Ranjan
Published: September 2024

The Battery Management System (BMS) serves as the heart of the electric vehicle system, in which estimating the state of charge (SOC) is the crucial part of the BMS to ensure the durability, reliability, and sustainability of the battery pack. Due to its nonlinear characteristics, accurately estimating the SOC for a slow degradation of the charge is highly cumbersome. The literature provides a series of machine learning algorithms (MLA) to estimate and predict the SOC of lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery systems for electric vehicle (EV) applications. The literature has proposed various MLA, coulomb counting, and different Kalman filter methods to address this challenge and estimate the SOC of Li-ion battery systems for EV applications. This research looks at the differences and similarities between the coulomb counting method, the unscented Kalman filter method, and a number of machine learning algorithms. These include linear regression, polynomial linear regression, support vector regression, decision trees, random forests, artificial neural networks (ANN), and long short-term memory (LSTM). The goal is to assess the MLAs’ accuracy in estimating battery SOC. Analyzing model errors optimizes the battery’s performance parameter. We identify ANN and LSTM as the two most efficient methods for accurate SOC estimation in an EV-operated BMS system by evaluating the performance indices of the aforementioned machine learning methodologies. Once again, the LSTM model for SOC estimation has proven to be highly accurate in analyzing the discrepancy between the actual and predicted traveling ranges of the designed prototype. We design a MATLAB/SIMULINK EV powertrain by collecting real-time data from the Li-ion battery pack, analyzing the SOC variation data, and using the previously mentioned MLA in the Python platform to estimate the SOC and its accuracy. It highlights the effectiveness of advanced MLAs in improving SOC estimation, thereby enhancing the performance and reliability of EV battery systems.
Spatiotemporal statistical features of velocity responses to traffic congestions in a local motorway network
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Schreckenberg Michael , Guhr Thomas
Published: September 2024

The causal connection between congestions and velocity changes at different locations induces various statistical features, which we identify and measure in detail. We carry out an empirical analysis of large-scale traffic data on a local motorway network around the Breitscheid intersection in the North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. We put forward a response function which measures the velocity change at a certain location versus time conditioned on a congestion at another location. We use a novel definition of the corresponding congestion indicator to ensure causality. We find that the response of velocities to the congestion exhibits phase changes in time. A negative response at smaller time lags transforms into positive one at larger time lags, implying a certain traffic mechanism. The response decays as a power law with the distance. We also identify a scaling property leading to a collapse of the response functions on one curve.
AI-based antibody discovery platform identifies novel, diverse, and pharmacologically active therapeutic antibodies against multiple SARS-CoV-2 strains
Authors: Loomis Cristina Moldovan , Lahlali Thomas , Van Citters Danielle , Sprague Megan , Neveu Gregory , Somody Laurence , Siska Christine C , Deming Derrick , Asakawa Andrew J , Amimeur Tileli , Shaver Jeremy M , Carbonelle Caroline , Ketchem Randal R , Alam Antoine , Clark Rutilio H
Published: September 2024

Background

We are entering a new era of antibody discovery and optimization where machine learning (ML) processes will become indispensable for the design and development of therapeutics.

Methods

We have constructed a Humanoid Antibody Library for the discovery of therapeutics that is an initial step towards leveraging the utility of artificial intelligence and ML. We describe how we began our validation of the library for antibody discovery by isolating antibodies against a target of pandemic concern, SARS-CoV-2. The two main antibody quality aspects that we focused on were functional and biophysical characterization.

Results

The applicability of our platform for effective therapeutic antibody discovery is demonstrated here with the identification of a panel of human monoclonal antibodies that are novel, diverse, and pharmacologically active.

Conclusions

These first-generation antibodies, without the need for affinity maturation, exhibited neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 viral infectivity across multiple strains and indicated high developability potential.
Use of local treatment in managing infections: Focus on antimicrobial locks, beads, and cement
Authors: Kufel Wesley D , Kufel Julia E
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this review is to describe important considerations with local antimicrobial therapies such as locks, beads, and cement for adjunctive infection management or prevention.

Local delivery of antimicrobials with locks, beads, and cement has been used for infection management with retained devices in an effort to improve clinical success. However, their use has been controversial due to conflicting clinical data and logistical issues. Antimicrobial lock therapy (ALT) has been used for both adjunctive treatment and prevention of catheter-related bloodstream infections for certain pathogens and based on patient-specific scenarios. ALT has been a controversial method for sterilizing the catheter lumen by delivering high concentrations of antibiotics with or without heparin into the catheter for prolonged durations. Studies differ regarding the selection and concentrations of antibiotics, dwell duration, presence of heparin in the ALT, clinical outcomes/definitions, and use for prevention or treatment of catheter-related bloodstream infections. Antibiotic beads and cement have been used for various surgical procedures but are predominately considered in orthopedic surgeries. Despite the widespread use of the antibiotic-loaded bone cement in orthopedics, studies differ regarding the selection and concentrations of antibiotics, clinical outcomes/definitions, and use for prevention or treatment of infections.

Conclusion

Although antimicrobial locks, beads, and cement are commonly used for adjunctive treatment or prevention of infections, more data are needed to support their use to provide clinical efficacy and safety with consistent antimicrobial selection and logistics.
Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation supported transcatheter aortic valve implantation in a high-risk COVID-19 patient: a comprehensive case report
Authors: Vizzari Giampiero , De Ferrari Tommaso , Costa Francesco , Mancini Nastasia , Franzino Marco , Ceresa Fabrizio , Patanè Francesco , Micari Antonio
Published: September 2024

Background

The sudden onset of heart failure in high-risk transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) candidates poses significant challenges, necessitating meticulous planning and consideration of mechanical circulatory support options. Nevertheless, existing data on the efficacy and safety of mechanical circulatory support in this context are limited, along with criteria for patient selection.

Case summary

An 87-year-old patient, with severe low-flow low-gradient aortic stenosis, presented with acute heart failure and concurrent COVID-19 pneumonia. Despite initial conservative management, her clinical condition deteriorated, requiring inotropic support. The decision was made to perform a rescue TAVI procedure with veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support. The patient underwent successful TAVI while managing complications, including cardiac arrest, with haemodynamic support from veno-arterial ECMO. Post-procedure, the patient showed improved cardiac function and was discharged in stable condition.

Discussion

This case underscores the significance of strategic patient selection, proactive haemodynamic management, and the judicious use of veno-arterial ECMO in high-risk TAVI, particularly in complex scenarios involving acute heart failure and respiratory insufficiency, exacerbated by COVID-19. It highlights the challenges and critical decision points in TAVI planning, emphasizing the need for further research and standardized guidelines to refine indications for prophylactic mechanical circulatory support in TAVI procedures.
87 A co-creative healthy lifestyle program for social vulnerable community dwelling older adults
Authors: Verschelden Pieterjan , Vanderlinden Julie , Lambers Sabine , Es Eva
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Social vulnerable older adults tend to have a lower health literacy regarding healthy behaviours and they most often experience limited access to healthy lifestyle programs. Existing evidence-based lifestyle programs are not always accessible or are not tailor-made for social vulnerable older adults. The overarching purpose of the program is to introduce and empower social vulnerable older adults to healthy lifestyle behaviours.

Description

Motivators, barriers and needs of social vulnerable older adults regarding healthy lifestyle behaviours were identified by means of a literature review and a needs assessment. Based on this assessment and literature, a healthy lifestyle program (AHAA) was developed in co-creation with a multidisciplinary team of researchers, older adults, local community centres and students in healthcare. A pilot version of the AHAA program was implemented in four local community centres in Flanders and Brussels. Three revision rounds, entailing a neighbourhood analysis and focus groups helped shape the final AHAA program. The AHAA program consisted of ten weekly sessions that were focused on topics such as physical activity and sedentary behaviour, fall prevention, healthy nutrition, stress and sleep, positive psychology, meaningful living and motivation.

The program was then implemented in six local community centres in Flanders and Brussels.

In order to make the program self-sustaining, staff and volunteers of the local community centres received training in order for them to be able to provide all AHAA sessions.

Conclusions

The neighbourhood analysis facilitated a broader reach within these social vulnerable older adults but the recruitment of social vulnerable older adults required remains challenging. In terms of the social vulnerability of this target group, it is important to highlight the expertise of these older adults in the co-creation and throughout the development and implementation of the program by including them as experts in ageing.

According to the participants, the belongingness and ‘fun’ factor in AHAA turned out to be success factors for the adherence to the program. The participating local community centres experienced an increase in numbers of older adults that were attracted to their centre as well as an increase in their activities that are focused on healthy lifestyle behaviours.
161 Be Active Be Well: A community based physical activity behaviour change programme supporting inactive adults to lead more active lives
Authors: Culloty Anne , Deasy Clare
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Be Active Be Well is a physical activity behaviour change programme for adults who are inactive or not meeting the recommended 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity a week. Only 46% of the Irish adult population currently meet this recommendation yet 64% of those inactive want to become more active. Changing and maintaining a health related behaviour is a difficult and complex process. The Be Active Be Well programme is designed to be both supportive and motivational.

The programme embeds evidence based behaviour change theory, strategies and techniques to support participants to explore and understand their physical activity and sedentary behaviours. A key aspect of the programme also includes appropriate signposting to suitable community based physical activity opportunities. The programme also consolidates the impact of Making Every Contact Count (MECC) and chronic disease prevention interventions by enabling participants to understand and lead their physical activity change journey.

Project description

Be Active Be Well was developed and is facilitated by Health Promotion Officers for Physical Activity in Cork Kerry Community Healthcare.

There are 5 sessions in total; each session is 2 hours long. The first four sessions take place once a week over 4 weeks and then 8 weeks later is the 5th and final session. The sessions consist of input from the programme facilitators, group participation, individual reflection and also include practical exercises e.g. stretching, walking, strength and balance.

Evaluation of the initial pilot programme was conducted at the end of each session and at the end of the programme, subsequent programmes are evaluated at the end.

Training for Trainers is planned in order to scale up the programme and expand to all 14 network areas of Cork Kerry Community Healthcare.

Conclusions

Through a multifaceted approach the programme seeks to enable inclusion of those hardest to reach/those who struggle to participate in current community based physical opportunities. Creating links with Social Prescribers, Health Professionals, Family Resource Centres and community groups supports this and ensures recruitment of suitable participants. Providing a supportive environment helps participants to make positive physical activity changes and ultimately improve their overall health and wellbeing.
69 Beyond motivation: Essential factors for implementing lifestyle interventions in community care to enhance physical activity among community dwelling older adults
Authors: Van Der Laag Patricia , Dorhout Berber , Veenhof Cindy , Barten Di-Janne , Schoonhoven Lisette
Published: September 2024

Purpose

ProMuscle is a lifestyle intervention that combines protein-enriched nutrition and resistance-exercise training. It is effective in improving physical functioning in community-dwelling older adults and contributes to the maintainance of independency. Unfortunately, ProMuscle’s potential is impeded by insufficient attention to implementation. The PromUscle iMPlementation study (PUMP-fit) proposes to provide knowledge and guidance to healthcare professionals and policymakers for successful implementation of ProMuscle in multiple community-care settings.

Project description

The PUMP-fit study focuses on implementing ProMuscle in multiple community-care settings in the Netherlands. We employed a longitudinal mixed-methods design. Initially, a scoping review identified barriers and facilitators for implementation. Subsequently, in co-design with stakeholders like physiotherapists, dieticians, implementation experts, and older adults feasible, practical and theory-based implementation strategies (targeting knowledge, collaboration, patient needs and costs) were developed and processed into an online implementation toolbox. Recently, a hybrid type III stepped-wedge cluster trial was conducted to evaluate the implementation toolbox’ effectiveness. In addition to longitudinal insights into implementation outcomes like the adoption and fidelity of ProMuscle, patient outcomes were collected to evaluate ProMuscle’s effect on physical functioning. With the results of the PUMP-fit study we will inform policy makers and healthcare professionals how to support implementation of lifestyle interventions in community-settings.

Conclusions

ProMuscle is an effective intervention to improve community-dwelling older adults’ physical functioning. The developed implementation toolbox is a feasible way to support healthcare professionals during implementation. However, implementation is not self-evident. As confirmed in this study, multiple factors such as, insufficient time, money, organizational facilitation, and high intervention costs, negatively influences the implementation and lead to low recruitment rates. These implementation challenges cannot always be eliminated by an individual professional, even though professionals receive individual implementation support. Therefore, support from relevant stakeholders like policy makers is necessary. For example, to raise awereness about the importance of exercise and nutrition among older adults, policymakers, and healthcare professionals. Additionally, it is suggested that a uniform payment system could contribute to the implementation of lifestyle interventions to enhance physical actvity in community-dwelling older adults. The implementation toolbox and policy manual will be freely available and distributed through various communication channels for further upscaling.
216 Churchtown Walk & Talk Programme for Older Adults
Authors: Lee Shane , Oratis Dearbhaile , Mulvihill Catherine , Nicholl Claire
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Many community-based services discontinued due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Local primary care teams encountered clients exhibiting deconditioning, reduced muscle strength, diminished routines, and lacking confidence in movement. Loneliness and social isolation were increasingly evident.

Project Description

Development: Churchtown Walk & Talk was developed, in partnership between the health service and Making Connections (befriending and wellbeing charity), to respond to local population’s needs.

Two walking groups were piloted (n = 22), aimed at addressing the observed muscle strength deterioration and social isolation. Eligible clients opted in following formal assessment by primary care physiotherapist/occupational therapist, and participants decided the route, distance and duration of the walk. On completion, participants were accompanied to a local café for further social engagement.

90% of pilot participants showed improved muscle strength. All participants reported a positive impact on their health and wellbeing.

Implementation: Following the success of the pilots, five additional groups (n = 62) were delivered, aimed at increasing:

• PA levels

• Muscle strength to reduce frailty

• Wellbeing through socialisation

Evaluation

Pre/post outcomes were measured at weeks one and six, for five walking groups (n = 57).

Mean time score for Five Times Sit to Stand decreased (25.40s to 17.74s). Hand Dynamometer Grip Strength improved by 1.44kg (left hand) and 1.04kg (right hand). The mean Short Warwick Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale score increased from 28.53 to 29.35.

77% of participants were engaging in PA for 5-7days post programme versus 58% pre intervention, and 90% of participants reported a positive impact on their health and wellbeing upon completion.

Dissemination

Following the success of the programme, further adapted groups are planned in 2024 with expansion into other healthcare networks with an identified need.

Conclusions

The population in Ireland is aging1, and frailty increases risk of disability; falls and cognitive decline. Interdisciplinary and multiagency collaboration for targeted local interventions may help to reduce risks for older adults. Meaningful engagement with participants allows tailored programmes which may improve engagement and outcomes.

Reference:

1. Sheehan, A. and O’Sullivan, R., (2020) Ageing and Public Health – an overview of key statistics in Ireland and Northern Ireland. Dublin: Institute of Public Health.
33 Enhancing Healthcare Professionals’ Competencies in Physical Activity: The Implementation of the vAdBeCeDa®- a multicomponent exercise programme to prevent falls and frailty in elderly
Authors: Dolenc Maja , Knific Tjaša , Pustivšek Suzana , Tomažin Katja
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Longitudinal studies of multicomponent exercise programs have produced encouraging results suggesting that sustained physical activity (PA) has a significant impact on the fall prevention and frailty in elderly. Promoting lifelong PA for elderly requires a community-based approach and effective collaboration between the health and sports professionals. The National Institute of Public Health in Slovenia conducts activities as part of the four-year project “Integration of Geriatric Care for the Elderly” In 2024, a series of educational events entitled “Supporting the Elderly - Challenges in Geriatric Care for the Elderly in Slovenia” took place in various locations in Slovenia. The aim of these events was to improve the competences of health, sports and social care professionals involved in the care of the elderly and to promote their collaboration.

Project description

In the series of events we have addressed more than 1000 participants, with the results showing promising trends in the evaluation of participants’ satisfaction and the usefulness of the topics for their regular work. Our aim was to train professionals through the use of modern information and communication technology (ICT). The training was delivered in a hybrid format that included recorded lectures, online presentations and practical live workshops. We addressed the prescription of PA and exercise as one of the most promising motivating factors for habit change in elderly. The vAdBeCeDa®, i.e., a novel multi-component exercise program, developed in collaboration between sports, health and fitness professionals, was presented as part of the PA promotion. The program aims to prevent falls and frailty in community-dwelling elderly by improving strength, stability, balance, flexibility and walking speed through targeted exercises. It is in line with the WHO guidelines on PA and physical inactivity and the latest global recommendations for fall prevention in elderly.

Conclusions

The vAdBeCeDa® program will be implemented in the existing network of Health Promotion Centers (HPC) and Healthy Clubs (HC) throughout the country so that the entire elderly population can exercise at the expense of the Slovenian health insurance. Recognizing that strengthening the competencies of healthcare professionals is an essential prerequisite for ensuring quality care for elderly.
97 Policy Framework for Integrating Sports Technology in Taiwan’s All-Age Environments and Supportive Elderly Exercise Spaces
Authors: Wu Chao-Chun , Chia Shu-Li , Lee Chia-Hui , Lin Chen-Su , Huang Shiang-Yun , Chia Shu-Li , Li Tsung-Lin , Wu Shiao-Chi , Huang Yu-Wen
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Over 52.7% of Taiwan’s population aged 18 and above meet the WHO’s physical activity standards. This project aims to utilize technology-assisted recommendations to bridge the gap in sports-related resources among different regions, thereby boosting overall sports physical activity rates. Moreover, with Taiwan having entered an aged society in 2018, the initiative involves promoting fitness clubs for elders within communities to enhance the well-being of elderly individuals dealing with health issues, sub-health conditions, or frailty. These clubs aim to improve participants’ muscle strength, cognitive function, and social engagement through increased physical activity.

Project or policy description

Since 2020, Taiwan has been implementing the silver fitness club program where local administrations strategically utilize idle public spaces in accordance with local conditions. These clubs receive support from sports instructors who deliver diverse health promotion courses, aiming to increase the accessibility of physical activities for elders in communities as well as ensure balanced development of physical activity resources between urban and rural areas.

Moreover, since 2021, Taiwan has been integrating emerging sports technology (such as motion detection, exercise data recording apps) into different communities and medical institutional settings. Through automatic API uploading to data platform, we analyze physiological and exercise data, integrating health behaviors, statuses, services, and environments. By aligning exercise with wellness, targeted exercise training programs with health topics are offered. Intelligent health not only enhances service efficiency but also demonstrates well cross-departmental collaboration (between the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Ministry of Digital Affairs) and vertical integration (between central and local governments).

Conclusions

As of 2023, Taiwan has set up 16 sports technology hubs and 128 Silver fitness clubs across all 21 counties and cities, aiming to widen access to sports technology experiences and reduce barriers to participation. Approximately 150,000 visits have made with data analysis providing tailored exercise recommendations. Presently, over 90% of elder participants in these fitness clubs report noticeable positive enhancements in mental and muscular strength, meeting the objectives of disability prevention and delay.

This work was funded by the Health Promotion Administration, Ministry of Health and Welfare. Program number MP11202-0098.
107 The Ecosystem Model of Five Solutions to Enhance Work and Functional Capacity Through Physical Activity in the Workplace
Authors: Laakkonen Reetta , Malvela Miia
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Broader solutions than the traditional approaches are needed to promote physical activity (PA) in the workplaces. To tackle this problem, the Finnish government funded program Adults on the Move (AMP) has collaboratively developed an ecosystem model consisting of five solutions to enhance work and functional capacity through PA in the workplace. The approach is new as it utilized the impact investing model developed by future fund Sitra. The ecosystem model has been developed for the future planning purposes to identify the points of influence PA has within the existing structures of Finnish work life.

Project description

The model was developed collaboratively by a working group of various stakeholders including occupational health care, the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, employers’ pension insurance, trade unions, employer advocacy organizations, and the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health.

The working group identified five impact pathways for PA within existing work life structures:

1. Society providing more incentives to employers, such as tax cuts, to promote PA and well-being.

2. A new way of assessing risks at workplaces, including both physically demanding and inactive work, with PA reducing risks in both.

3. More consistent promotion of PA in collaboration with occupational health care to enhance overall work capacity.

4. Improving psychological, physical, and social balance in the workplace through PA.

5. Providing more training to supervisors on work capacity management, including aspects of PA and recovery.

The work was evaluated by several stakeholders, including Finland’s largest business confederation, the Confederation of Finnish Industries, the Centre for Occupational Safety, The Central Organisation of Finnish Trade Unions, and the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment of Finland.

AMP prepared and disseminated the completed work to stakeholders. As a result, for example the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health is strengthening the role of PA in occupational health care, enhancing the competence of services related to workplace collaboration and individual work capacity improvement.

In conclusion, the impact investment model provides a useful framework to address the systemic problem of physical inactivity among working-age people. This novel approach to modeling the topic has been well-received among stakeholders.
6 The overlooked importance of normalising physical activity in cancer care
Authors: Brown Beth
Published: September 2024

Background

Physical activity has a range of benefits for people diagnosed with cancer. Despite this, physical activity is not routinely promoted within healthcare and most people diagnosed with cancer aren’t active to recommended levels.

Purpose

The project explores how a culture where physical activity is promoted as part of standard cancer care has been achieved in the USA and Canada. Insights can be used to improve the design and delivery of physical activity support.

Methods

The Fellowship involved travelling to Canada and USA. Physical activity programmes that were integrated in clinical care using innovative approaches were identified. The project investigated how and why the programmes had become successful by observing operations and interviewing professionals. Differences between approaches in the USA, Canada and the UK were explored.

Results

A range of cultural and contextual differences impact the extent to which physical activity is embedded as part of standard care. The prescriptiveness of programmes, and the delivery of exercise as medicine compared to physical activity was identified as a cultural difference that impacted on uptake and adherence. The integration of exercise facilities within healthcare settings helped to normalise physical activity for clinical staff and patients. Implementing systematic triage methods and utilising the workforce appropriately allows scalability. Funding from healthcare systems does not impact the success or sustainability of physical activity programmes.

Conclusions

The marker of success within exemplar programmes was the normalisation of physical activity within a clinical system. The importance of design features that make physical activity look and feel like part of standard health care should not be overlooked.

Practical implications

Recommendations have been created for decision makers designing cancer care and physical activity services. This includes how physical activity can be normalised by the design of environments, service pathways, language, and professional relationships.
137 The role of link workers in ‘bridging the gap’ to community-based physical activity
Authors: O’Grady Megan , Connolly Deirdre , Barrett Emer
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Promoting local, community-based physical activity (local PA) can reduce barriers to participation in physical activity (PA). Link workers (LW) can improve health and wellbeing by facilitating connections to community and voluntary services which include local PA. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of LW in connecting community-dwelling adults to local PA.

Methods

This abstract presents results from two studies. In study 1, a scoping review was conducted. Full-text peer and non-peer reviewed studies reporting on the processes of intermediaries when connecting individuals to local PA were considered for inclusion. In study 2, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 27 Irish LW, including local sports partnership officers and social prescribing link workers, to describe their practices and processes when connecting individuals to local PA. Interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

Study 1 found that LW received referrals, conducted assessments, and followed up with individuals over time using several strategies to facilitate uptake of local PA. In both studies, LW received few referrals specifically to increase PA. LW in study 2 instead reported receiving referrals for psychosocial needs or to address pre-existing health issues. Despite this, they often connected people to local PA, recognising its ability to improve physical, mental, and social health. LW in study 2 also reported heterogeneous processes when facilitating connections to local PA but reported that knowledge of local services was a key component of the process. Their strategies included person-led practical and instrumental support and selecting local PA tailored to the person’s interests, preferences, and abilities.

Conclusions

LW in Irish and international settings connect a large proportion of individuals who are referred to their services to PA despite receiving few referrals for this purpose. Further studies are needed to (i) determine the reason for lack of specific PA referrals, (ii) identify optimum levels of support for people with different health needs, and (iii) investigate the effects of the LW intervention on physical activity outcomes.

Support/Funding Source

Supported by the Glennon Bursary, awarded by the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists: January 2023 – January 2024.
173 ”You’ve got a lot of big hurdles to jump”: A qualitative investigation into parents’ and teachers’ perceptions of the factors influencing children’s physical activity
Authors: Nally Sarah , Gallagher A M , Murphy M H , Salmon Jo , Carlin Angela
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Levels of physical inactivity in children remains a serious public health concern. The school and home setting provide a promising environment to support children’s physical activity (PA). Understanding the factors that influence PA in childhood is key in the development of effective strategies for increasing activity levels and overcoming barriers in primary school aged children. Nevertheless, there is limited evidence in relation to parents’ and teachers’ perceptions of children’s PA behaviour both at school and in the home environment. Thus, the present study aims to explore the current views, barriers, and facilitators to PA in parents and teachers of children (aged 7-9 years) to inform the design of the Children - Sit Less, Move More (C-SLAMM) intervention.

Methods

In total, twelve semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with primary schoolteachers (n = 6) and with the parents (n = 6) of primary school aged children. All data were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Analyses revealed an understanding of the relationship between children’s PA and health, however the knowledge and perceptions of PA varied. Participants’ felt PA was important but believed several factors impacted children’s ability to be active. Three main themes emerged from the study, reflecting parents’ and teachers’ perspectives on promoting primary school children’s PA at school and at home: (1) knowledge and perception of PA, (2) barriers and facilitators to an active lifestyle, and (3) parent and teacher acceptability and feasibility of the proposed intervention. Findings suggest that the most significant barriers to promoting PA among primary school children include a lack of space, uneven distribution of PA equipment and limited access to play and sporting facilities and suggest opportunities for overcoming these barriers as a way of increasing children’s PA at school. Lack of teacher and parental support were highlighted as key barriers for intervention delivery. Implications for intervention development and future directions were also considered.

Conclusions

Findings from this work highlight that a one-size-fits-all approach may not be applicable when designing a school-based PA intervention, as some degree of flexibility is required.

Funding Source

Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke