Balance Measurements Research Articles

Graph convolution networks for social media trolls detection use deep feature extraction

This study presents a novel approach to identifying trolls and toxic content on social media using deep learning. We developed a machine-learning model capable of detecting toxic images through their embedded text content. Our approach leverages GloVe word embeddings to enhance the model's predictive accuracy. We also utilized Graph Convolutional Networks (GCNs) to effectively analyze the intricate relationships inherent in social media data. The practical implications of our work are significant, despite some limitations in the model's performance. While the model accurately identifies toxic content more than half of the time, it struggles with precision, correctly identifying positive instances less than 50% of the time. Additionally, its ability to detect all positive cases (recall) is limited, capturing only 40% of them. The F1-score, which is a measure of the model's balance between precision and recall, stands at around 0.4, indicating a need for further refinement to enhance its effectiveness. This research offers a promising step towards more effective monitoring and moderation of toxic content on social platforms.

Technical Quality and Diagnostic Impact of Chest X-rays in Tuberculosis Screening: Insights From a Saudi Teleradiology Cohort.

Objectives To assess the standard of chest X-ray techniques in tuberculosis (TB) screening within Saudi Arabian healthcare facilities and evaluate the impact of technical quality on radiological interpretation. Materials and methods Analysis of 250 posteroanterior chest radiographs sourced from a network of five clinics was conducted. These images were scrutinized for technical quality by a radiologist. Results Of the radiographs analyzed, 57% exhibited technical issues, with overexposure and clothing artifacts being the most commonly encountered. Notably, only 14% of these radiographs were deemed to have compromised diagnostic ability. Conclusion The presence of technical issues in most chest X-rays for TB screening highlights a significant area for improvement. However, the relatively low percentage of radiographs impacting diagnostic quality indicates that most issues do not critically hinder the radiologist's interpretative capability. This underscores the importance of balanced quality control measures in radiographic practices for effective TB detection in the region.

Dynamic Measures of Balance during Obstacle-Crossing in Self-Selected Gait in Individuals with Mild-to-Moderate Parkinson’s Disease

Individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD) have postural instability and gait dysfunction that lead to falls and disability with disease progression. Increased fall risk is particularly seen during challenging gait tasks such as obstacle-crossing. The purpose of this study was to determine if there were differences in dynamic postural control during self-paced walking and obstacle-crossing between persons with mild-to-moderate PD and healthy controls. Participants included nine individuals with PD and nine age- and gender-matched controls (CON). This study examined margin of stability metrics using instrumented 3D motion analysis during the two-step sequence of the obstacle-crossing task. Dynamic balance variables and spatiotemporal (ST) parameters at distinct gait events related to the leading (step one) and trailing leg (step two) were compared for the PD and CON groups using a mixed-model ANOVA. No differences were found between groups for ST gait parameters during obstacle-crossing, except for a significantly reduced step length (p = 0.005) for the trailing limb for the PD group. The PD group demonstrated significantly larger mean values for mediolateral center of pressure–center of mass (COP–COM) distance at first double support (p = 0.004) and center of pressure–extrapolated center of mass (COP–XCOM) distance at second double support (p = 0.016) for the second step. Our results suggest that the margin of stability may be useful in discerning postural control adaptations during obstacle negotiation in persons with PD.

Improving the Rate of Same-Day Discharge in Gynecologic Oncology Patients Undergoing Minimally Invasive Surgery—An Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Quality Improvement Initiative

SettingSame-day discharge (SDD) in patients undergoing minimally invasive gynecologic oncology (GO) surgery is a recent trend aligned with Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) principles. SDD in GO is safe and feasible based on several recent studies, including a quality improvement (QI) initiative in Edmonton, Alberta, which resulted in SDD rates >70%. PatientsA baseline audit of GO patients at our center (Calgary, Alberta) found the SDD rate to be 14%. Given that Edmonton and our center are within the same province, they have similar patient populations and available resources – suggesting that interventions from the Edmonton QI initiative may be translatable. ObjectivesThe objectives of our QI initiative were: 1) to increase the rate of SDD in eligible GO patients to 70%, and 2) to evaluate the ease with which QI methods demonstrated in one study could be applied at another center. DesignA pre/post-intervention design was used (50 patients/group). InterventionsFour interventions were designed to address root causes for failed SDD identified following QI diagnostics: 1) SDD as the default discharge plan, including a “Day Surgery” surgical booking, 2 & 3) development and implementation of ERAS SDD pre-operative and post-operative order sets, and 4) patient education SDD-specific documents. MeasurementsRate of SDD was measured together with patient demographics and surgical outcomes. Process and balancing measures were defined and tracked. Main ResultsSDD in GO increased from 14% (7/50) to 82% (41/50) after the implementation of the above interventions (OR 28, p<0.0001, 95%CI 9.54-82.11). Improved SDD was achieved without negatively impacting post-operative rates of emergency department visits: 8% pre-, 4% post-intervention within 7 days (OR 0.48, p=0.678, 95%CI 0.09-2.74), 12% pre-, 10% post-intervention within 30 days (OR 0.8148, p=1.0, 95% CI 0.2317-2.86). ConclusionsThis ERAS QI initiative resulted in a substantial increase in SDD in GO, without a negative impact on balancing measures. We demonstrate that the “spread” of simple, clearly defined QI interventions across centers (where the patient population is similar) is feasible. This suggests that an ERAS SDD Program for GO could be a realistic goal for other centers with similar characteristics.

Comparison between six-week exergaming, conventional balance and no exercise training program on older adults’ balance and gait speed

Abstract We evaluated differences between a six-week exergame-training and a conventional balance training program on the balance and gait speed of older adults’ (&gt;65 years). Forty-two healthy participants were recruited from independent living and community centers and randomized to one of three groups: exergaming balance training (EBT), conventional balance training (CBT), or control (no training). The participants completed two balance measurements (Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale (FAB) and center of pressure (COP) excursion), and gait speed at pre, post-intervention, and after a three-week follow-up. Both EBT and CBT groups improved their scores on the FAB, COP displacement, and gait speed post-intervention (p&lt;0.05) and these changes were maintained and did not return to pre-training values after three weeks of detraining. The control group scores for FAB and gait velocity values declined (p&lt;0.001) but not COP excursions during the study. This six-week exergame training program improved balance control and gait speed in community-dwelling seniors in a similar fashion to conventional training. Participants’ physical abilities scores improved and were maintained following three weeks of detraining. Exergame-based training therefore may be considered as an intervention that can address balance control and gait speed in older adults. As well improved scores can be maintained with transient or sporadic activity.

Factors Associated With a Lateral Ankle Sprain in Young Female Soccer Players: A Prospective Cohort Study.

Previous studies have attempted to determine if certain risk factors can predict the occurrence of a lateral ankle sprain (LAS) in female soccer players. Unfortunately, there is limited evidence with regard to risk factors associated with an LAS in female soccer players. To identify intrinsic risk factors for an LAS among young female soccer players. Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Participants were 161 young female soccer players in Japan who were evaluated for LAS risk factors during a preseason medical assessment. The assessment included anthropometric, joint laxity, joint range of motion, muscle flexibility, muscle strength, and balance measurements. Each athlete's history of LASs was also collected. The participants were monitored during a single-yearseason for LASs, as diagnosed by physicians. There were 26 instances of an LAS in 25 players (15.5%) during the season. Injured players were significantly more likely to have sustained a previous ankle sprain (P = .045) and demonstrated significantly worse balance than their peers without an LAS during the double- and single-leg balance tests (P = .008 for both). Athletes with lower hamstring-to-quadriceps muscle strength ratios were also significantly more likely to sustain an LAS (P = .02). Poor balance, a low hamstring-to-quadriceps ratio, and a history of ankle sprains were associated with an increased risk of LASs in young female soccer players in the current study. These findings may be useful for developing a program to prevent LASs in this population.

Sensor-Integrated Chairs for Lower Body Strength and Endurance Assessment.

This paper describes an automated method and device to conduct the Chair Stand Tests of the Fullerton Functional Test Battery. The Fullerton Functional Test is a suite of physical tests designed to assess the physical fitness of older adults. The Chair Stand Tests, which include the Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test (5xSST) and the 30 Second Sit-to-Stand Test (30CST), are the standard for measuring lower-body strength in older adults. However, these tests are performed manually, which can be labor-intensive and prone to error. We developed a sensor-integrated chair that automatically captures the dynamic weight and distribution on the chair. The collected time series weight-sensor data is automatically uploaded for immediate determination of the sit-to-stand timing and counts, as well as providing a record for future comparison of lower-body strength progression. The automatic test administration can provide significant labor savings for medical personnel and deliver much more accurate data. Data from 10 patients showed good agreement between the manually collected and sensor-collected 30CST data (M = 0.5, SD = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.13). Additional data processing will be able to yield measurements of fatigue and balance and evaluate the mechanisms of failed standing attempts.

Graceful gait: virtual ballet classes improve mobility and reduce falls more than wellness classes for older women.

Dance is an effective and motivating form of exercise for older women, but few studies have quantified the benefits of virtual dance classes nor, specifically, ballet. This study tested the effectiveness of virtual ballet compared to virtual wellness classes, with the goal of reaching underserved populations. It is among the first to explore the effects of virtual classical ballet on functional gait mobility, balance, and quality of life measures in older women. Older women were recruited in two waves and randomized to two groups: a ballet class modified for older adults and a wellness-based control class. Both groups received 12 weeks of online classes, meeting twice per week for 45-min sessions. Classes were taught by a local company that offers community-based ballet classes. The same instructor led both the ballet and the wellness classes. Pre- and post-intervention assessments include gait and balance testing using wearable inertial sensors and self-report outcomes including quality of life and mood questionnaires. Forty-four older women completed the study: Ballet group (n = 21, 67.81 ± 7.3 years); Wellness group (n = 23, 69.96 ± 6.7 years). Pre- to post-intervention, both groups increased velocity on the two-minute walk test (F1,42 = 25.36, p < 0.001) and improved their time on the Timed Up and Go (F1,42 = 4.744, p = 0.035). Both groups improved balance on the Mini-BESTest (F1,42 = 38.154, p < 0.001), increased their scores on the Activities-Specific Balance Confidence Scale (F1,42 = 10.688, p < 0.001), and increased quality of life via the Short Form Health Survey (F1,42 = 7.663, p = 0.008). The ballet group improved gait variability in the backward direction (F1,42 = 14.577, p < 0.001) and reduced fall rates more than the wellness group [χ2(1) = 5.096, p = 0.024]. Both virtual ballet and wellness classes improve select measures of gait, balance, and quality of life. The benefits seen in both groups highlight the importance of considering social interaction as a key component when developing future interventions to target mobility in older women.

Mismatch between Actual and Perceived Sense of Slip Detrimentally Influences Postural Stability in Older workers

Age-associated impairment of proprioception and decreased sensitivity to underfoot pressure, may have serious problems for the elderly for their ability to “correctly” judge or perceive the degree of slipperiness, while walking on an inclined slippery surface, such as a ramp. The present study focuses on investigating the role of age-associated influences on workers’ ability to perceive surface slipperiness and its impact on postural balance and slip and fall events while negotiating a ramp. The study was carried out on 32 younger and 33 older workers. All workers’ postural balance and slip/fall events were objectively quantitated with a human motion analysis system and subjectively measured with the perceived sense of slip/fall (PSOF) tool respectively, while they walked up and down a ramp (on a level surface or 0, or at 10, 15, and 20 degrees) on 2 surface coefficient of frictions (dry: 0.76-1.06; moderately slippery: 0.19-0.21). While slip rating scores for the dry surface were comparable between the groups, the older workers significantly (p=0.046) underestimated the slippery surface. The deviation of the subjective surface slipperiness rating from the mean (DSSSR) for each surface was calculated. As expected, the older workers’ objective measure of postural balance was poorer than the younger group when they negotiated the slippery ramp surface. Repeated measure logistic regression analysis showed that the younger group was more likely to slip but much less likely to fall as DSSSR increased. Therefore, a mismatch between perception of slippery surface risk and the actual risk may jeopardize workers’ ability to safely negotiate a slippery ramp surface and thereby make them more susceptible to slip-related fall-injuries.

Study of PM2.5 particles in the Gucheng, North China Plain: Morphology, mixing state, and source apportionment

The PM2.5 samples were collected at regular intervals from April to October 2017 at a meteorological station in Gucheng (GC) (39.08。 N, 115.44。E), Hebei Province, China. An important site in the North China Plains (NCP). The internal composition, mixing state, and elemental mapping were determined by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Transmission electron microscope in scanning mode (STEM). Several core-shell (C–S) structures had sulfate and nitrate shells with mineral and sea salt cores, indicating particle aging and distant transport. The major water-soluble ions (WSIs) found were NH4+, Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Br−, Cl−, NO2−, NO3−, PO43− and SO42−. The three most dominant ions were NH4+, NO3−, and SO42−, with an average concentration of 16.02, 14.90, and 11.03 μg/m3, respectively, accounting for more than 80% of the total WSIs in PM2.5. Ion balance measurements showed that the PM2.5 were slightly acidic. [NO3−/SO42−] ratio of 1.11 shows a slightly high contribution from the mobile sources. The sea salt contribution was investigated by the molar ratio Cl−/Na+, which was slightly higher (1.9) than that for seawater (1.7), indicating an additional source, other than sea salt, for Cl− and Na+. The SOR was higher at all temperatures than NOR; SOR was strongly correlated with temperature, indicating gas-phase oxidation of SO2 to SO42− by OH radicle. The SO42− being positively correlated with NH4+ suggests NH4HSO4 and (NH4)2SO4 to be the dominant forms of SO42− present. Based on the internal structure, principal component analysis (PCA), and positive matrix factorization (PMF) analysis, the major sources of sulfate were industrial emissions from the surrounding cities, also confirmed by the Hysplit backward trajectory analysis. Nitrates arise mainly from local vehicular and industrial emissions and ammonia from fertilizers and animal manure. The local emissions and the regional transport from Shanxi, Shaanxi, Tianjin, Beijing, and Inner Mongolia were the main contributors to PM2.5 particles.

Textbook Outcome for Superior Cavopulmonary Connection: A Metric for Single Ventricle Heart Surgery.

Background: To develop a more holistic measure of congenital heart center performance beyond mortality, we created a composite "textbook outcome" (TO) for the Glenn operation. We hypothesized that meeting TO would have a positive prognostic and financial impact. Methods: This was a single center retrospective study of patients undergoing superior cavopulmonary connection (bidirectional Glenn or Kawashima ± concomitant procedures) from 2005 to 2021. Textbook outcome was defined as freedom from operative mortality, reintervention, 30-day readmission, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, major thrombotic complication, length of stay (LOS) >75th percentile (17d), and mechanical ventilation duration >75th percentile (2d). Multivariable logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards modeling were used. Results: Fifty-one percent (137/269) of patients met TO. Common reasons for TO failure were prolonged LOS (78/132, 59%) and ventilator duration (67/132, 51%). In multivariable analysis, higher weight [odds ratio, OR: 1.44 (95% confidence interval, CI: 1.15-1.84), P = .002] was a positive predictor of TO achievement while right ventricular dominance [OR 0.47 (0.27-0.81), P = .007] and higher preoperative pulmonary vascular resistance [OR 0.58 (0.40-0.82), P = .003] were negative predictors. After controlling for preoperative factors and excluding operative mortalities, TO achievement was independently associated with a decreased risk of death over long-term follow-up [hazard ratio: 0.50 (0.25-0.99), P = .049]. Textbook outcome achievement was also associated with lower direct cost of care [$137,626 (59,333-167,523) vs $262,299 (114,200-358,844), P < .0001]. Conclusion: Achievement of the Glenn TO is associated with long-term survival and lower costs and can be predicted by certain risk factors. As outcomes continue to improve within congenital heart surgery, operative mortality will become a less informative metric. Textbook outcome analysis may represent a more balanced measure of a successful outcome.

Towards a Populous Future, Policy Solutions and Prospects in Iran's Population Sphere: A Policy Brief

Background: The population of any country plays a crucial role in its economic, social, cultural, and political development. A young population enhances the workforce and economic dynamism of the country. Changes in lifestyle and a series of population, economic, and political policies in recent years have exposed Iran to the risk of population aging and demographic warnings from social researchers. The situation is such that population experts unanimously believe that if the current trend of increasing births and population growth continues, the country will face a major population crisis in the next 30 years. The present study examined the challenges and policy solutions in the field of Iran's population, considering a densely populated future. Considering the age pyramid between 1990 and 2000, Iran has experienced significant population growth, providing an effective and active workforce for the country. According to statistical models, Iran's population is projected to age significantly by 2030 and 2050. The complex issue of increasing fertility and population growth requires comprehensive and balanced measures. Promoting public awareness, financial support for families, social security provision, gender balance, housing facilities, population research, rural development, and collaboration with non-governmental organizations can be considered appropriate policies to increase fertility in Iran. The population issue should not be politicized, with some opposing and others supporting it; everyone should collaborate to address this significant gap. Considering the serious concerns and warnings of the Supreme Leader regarding population aging and the expressed concerns about the decline in population and the inadequacy of the current situation, policies for increasing fertility and population growth are on the agenda. However, all organizations, agencies, and individuals who can contribute to the realization of these policies must actively and seriously participate.

Deep learning algorithm for fully automated measurement of sagittal balance in adult spinal deformity.

Deep learning (DL) algorithms can be used for automated analysis of medical imaging. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of an innovative, fully automated DL algorithm for analysis of sagittal balance in adult spinal deformity (ASD). Sagittal balance (sacral slope, pelvic tilt, pelvic incidence, lumbar lordosis and sagittal vertical axis) was evaluated in 141 preoperative and postoperative radiographs of patients with ASD. The DL, landmark-based measurements, were compared with the ground truth values from validated manual measurements. The DL algorithm showed an excellent consistency with the ground truth measurements. The intra-class correlation coefficient between the DL and ground truth measurements was 0.71-0.99 for preoperative and 0.72-0.96 for postoperative measurements. The DL detection rate was 91.5% and 84% for preoperative and postoperative images, respectively. This is the first study evaluating a complete automated DL algorithm for analysis of sagittal balance with high accuracy for all evaluated parameters. The excellent accuracy in the challenging pathology of ASD with long construct instrumentation demonstrates the eligibility and possibility for implementation in clinical routine.

Effects of elastic taping on kyphosis and body balance in the elderly: a randomized crossover study

Kyphosis produces abnormal posture and reduced body balance in the elderly. Elastic tape may be useful at improving kyphotic posture and body balance. This study aims to evaluate the effects of elastic taping on kyphosis and body balance in the elderly. Ten elderly participants with degenerative kyphotic posture were recruited and randomly assigned to two groups (back taped with stretched elastic tape for 15 min and back taped with non-stretched elastic tape for 15 min). After a 1-h washout period, the groups were swapped over to receive the other intervention. The outcomes measured after each taping technique were Cobb’s angle measurement by inclinometer, perceived pain, and balance measurements by single leg stance test, time up and go test, center of gravity alignment (COG) and modified clinical test of sensory interaction on balance test (mCTSIB). There was a significant reduction in kyphotic angle and back pain in both the stretched and non-stretched taping groups (p < 0.05). We also found both taping techniques significantly reduced sway velocity on a foam surface with eyes closed and open (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference between taping groups for kyphotic angle, pain reduction or balance. The application of 15 min of stretched and non-stretched elastic tape in the elderly reduced kyphotic angle, back pain, and sway velocity while standing on foam surface in the mCTSIB test. If these changes persist over the long term (days and weeks) taping may be a useful intervention for elderly patients with kyphosis.

Relationships between mediolateral step modulation and clinical balance measures in people with chronic stroke

BackgroundMany people with chronic stroke (PwCS) exhibit walking balance deficits linked to increased fall risk and decreased balance confidence. One potential contributor to these balance deficits is a decreased ability to modulate mediolateral stepping behavior based on pelvis motion. This behavior, hereby termed mediolateral step modulation, is thought to be an important balance strategy but can be disrupted in PwCS. Research questionAre biomechanical metrics of mediolateral step modulation related to common clinical balance measures among PwCS? MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, 93 PwCS walked on a treadmill at their self-selected speed for 3-minutes. We quantified mediolateral step modulation for both paretic and non-paretic steps by calculating partial correlations between mediolateral pelvis displacement at the start of each step and step width (ρSW), mediolateral foot placement relative to the pelvis (ρFP), and final mediolateral location of the pelvis (ρPD) at the end of the step. We also assessed several common clinical balance measures (Functional Gait Assessment [FGA], Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale [ABC], self-reported fear of falling and fall history). We performed Spearman correlations to relate each biomechanical metric of step modulation to FGA and ABC scores. We performed Wilcoxon rank sum tests to compare each biomechanical metric between individuals with and without a fear of falling and a history of falls. ResultsOnly ρFP for paretic steps was significantly related to all four clinical balance measures; higher paretic ρFP values tended to be observed in participants with higher FGA scores, with higher ABC scores, without a fear of falling and without a history of falls. However, the strength of each of these relationships was only weak to moderate. SignificanceWhile the present results do not provide insight into causality, they justify future work investigating whether interventions designed to increase ρFP can improve clinical measures of post-stroke balance in parallel.

Recent Mass Balance Anomalies on the Djankuat Glacier, Northern Caucasus

A 54-year-long series of continuous instrumental measurements of mass balance and its main components has already been accumulated at the Djankuat Glacier, which is representative of the Caucasus and the most studied glacier in Russia. The anomalies of these indicators in 2017/2018–2020/2021 were evaluated against an analysis of meteorological reasons that predetermined them. Each of the four balance years under consideration represents a particular anomaly of varying severity. As for conditions of mass income, three years saw accumulation higher than average, and in one year (2018/2019) it approached the norm. As for summer ablation conditions, similarly, in one season (2019) the melting differed from the average only slightly, but in the other three it was much higher. Consequently, in one year (2020/2021) the state of the glacier was close to normal, in another (2017/2018) the budget situation was much more favorable for Djankuat, and in the other two the final losses significantly exceeded the average annual mass loss rate. At the same time, in 2019/2020, an absolute record of ablation since the beginning of monitoring in 1967/1968 was recorded (4360 mm w.e.). Nevertheless, although negative mass balance values continue to be recorded annually, signs of an inevitable slowdown in the rate of glacier degradation in the Caucasus have appeared in the last 4-year-long period: the continued growth of winter snow accumulation overlaps the ongoing intensification of summer melting. The growth of debris cover in terms of area and thickness also affects this mass loss slowdown to some extent. This inhibits ablation, exerting a heat-insulating effect. Because of this, the congruence of mass balance parameters vs. altitude curves is distorted. Also, a tendency toward increasing annual glacier mass turnover was revealed for the last half-century. This fact gradually increases the energy of glaciation and indirectly indicates a weakening of continentality in the climate of the Caucasian highlands.

Reliability of semi-automated spinal measurement software.

In the treatment of patients with adult spinal deformity, analysis of spinopelvic balance is essential in clinical assessment and surgical planning. There is currently no gold standard for measurement, whether done by hand or with digital software. New semi-automated software exists that purports to increase efficiency, but its reliability is unknown in the literature. Full spine X-rays were retrospectively reviewed from 25 adult patients seen between 2014 and 2017. Patients were included if they had > 5cm of sagittal imbalance and radiographs of sufficient quality to perform balance measurements, without prior surgical spinal fusion and/or instrumentation. Spinopelvic parameters were measured in two radiographic programs: one with basic, non-spine-specific measurement tools (eUnity, Client Outlook, Waterloo, Canada); and a second with spine-specific semi-automated measurement tools (Sectra, Sectra AB, Linköping, Sweden). Balance parameters included SVA, PI, PT, and LL. Data were compared by examining inter-rater and inter-program reliability using interclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The subjects' mean age was 67.9 ± 13.8years old, and 32% were male. The inter-program reliability was strong, with ICC values greater than 0.91 for each parameter. Similarly, there was strong inter-observer reliability with ICC values greater than 0.88. These results persisted on delayed repeat measurement (p < 0.001 for all measurements). There is excellent inter-observer and inter-program reliability between the basic PACS and semi-automated programs. These data demonstrate that the purported efficiency of semi-automated measurement programs does not come at the cost of measurement reliability.

¿Cómo mejoramos la participación comunitaria en salud? Análisis de las acciones propuestas tras la aplicación de una herramienta de evaluación

ObjectiveTo analyse the lines of action identified in the health promotion projects participating in the EvaluA GPS research, and their relationship with the scores assigned in EvalGuia, a tool for evaluating evidence-based community participation. DesignQualitative-quantitative multicentre study. SettingPrimary care or intersectoral network of primary care and municipalities in five autonomous communities in Spain. ParticipantsParticipants of 10 health promotion projects, selected with convenience sampling, following inclusion criteria (projects with a minimum of community engagement and centred on community health). MethodData were collected through questionnaires (EvalGuía tool) and participatory workshops. Quantitative data were analysed with descriptive statistics, qualitative data were analysed using matrix analysis. ResultsAfter implementing the EvalGuide tool, the lowest scores were assigned in outcome evaluation, knowledge of policies related to community participation, diversity in the core working group, inclusivity policies, financial resources and diffusion of results. The lines of action proposed were heterogeneous and did not always match with those prioritised as lower score. The prioritised lines revolved around project organisation and communication. ConclusionsThe EvalGuide tool can be helpful to design action plans in Health Promotion projects. The implementation of measures in 12 months to increase the diversity of the core working group, to incorporate work–life balance measures or to improve evaluation is difficult. More time is needed to implement such measures.

Sports, Gigs, and TikToks: Multi-Channel Advertising of Oral Nicotine Pouches

Oral nicotine pouches, which contain fewer harmful constituents than traditional tobacco products, are being increasingly marketed and sold. In this paper, we use images we collected in Great Britain between 2021 and 2023, along with a social media scan of Instagram and TikTok in 2023 to analyse the marketing strategies of these pouches on three key marketing channels — online media, sports sponsorships, and out-of-home advertising. Findings reveal the extensive use of visually appealing content, influencer partnerships, and event sponsorships that are potentially targeting young and naive audiences. Despite this, survey data indicates that nicotine pouch use in Great Britain remains minimal. However, a notable shift in public health impact could arise if these marketing efforts start to bear more fruit. The study underscores the need for balanced policy measures that increase access to reduced harm alternatives for existing tobacco and nicotine users while minimising exposure to youth and non-users. Continuous monitoring and regulatory adjustments are essential to address the evolving landscape of nicotine pouch marketing.

Wind Tunnel Balance Measurements of Bioinspired Tails for a Fixed Wing MAV

Bird tails play a significant role in aerodynamics and stability during flight. This paper investigates the use of bioinspired horizontal stabilizers for Micro Air Vehicles (MAVs) with Zimmerman wing-body geometry. Five configurations of bioinspired horizontal stabilizers are presented. Then, 3-component external balance force measurements of each horizontal stabilizer are performed in the wind tunnel. The Squared-Fan-Shaped Horizontal Stabilizer (HSF-tail) is selected as the optimal horizontal stabilizer that provides the highest aerodynamic efficiency during cruise flight while maintaining high longitudinal stability on the vehicle. The integration of the HSF-tail increases the aerodynamic efficiency by more than 6% up to a maximum of 17% compared to the other alternatives while maintaining the lowest aerodynamic drag value during the cruise phase. Furthermore, balance measurements to analyze the influence of the HSF-tail deflection on the aerodynamic coefficients are conducted, resulting in increased lift force and reduced aerodynamic drag with negative tail deflections. Lastly, the experimental data is validated with CFD-RANS steady simulations for low angles of attack, obtaining a relative difference on the measurement around 5% for the aerodynamic drag coefficient and around 10% for the lift coefficient during the cruise flight that demonstrates a high degree of accuracy in the aerodynamic coefficients obtained by external balance in the wind tunnel. This work represents a novel approach through the implementation of a horizontal stabilizer inspired by the structure of the tails of birds that is expected to yield significant advancements in both stability and aerodynamic efficiency, with the potential to revolutionize MAV technology.