Changes In Behavior Research Articles

Changes in 24-h Movement Behaviors During Relationship and Parenthood Transitions: A Compositional Data Analysis.

There is scarcity of studies using device-based measures to examine how relationship and parenthood transitions modify 24-h movement behaviors. This study examined how the composition of 24-h movement behaviors changes during these life transitions. Young adults (n = 170, mean age 25.6 years, SD 0.6) from the Special Turku Coronary Risk Factor Intervention Project (STRIP) wore wrist-worn accelerometers for 1 week and completed questionnaire at ages 26 and 31 years. Participants were categorized by relationship status into single (16%), those transitioning from single to partnered (31%), partnered (47%), and separated (7%), and by parenthood status into non-parents (73%), new parents (19%), and parents (8%). Changes in daily movement behaviors, including sleep, sedentary behavior (SED), light physical activity (LPA), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), were examined using compositional linear mixed models. In general, LPA and MVPA decreased relative to sleep and SED (p = 0.007). Differences emerged between LPA and MVPA in relationship and parenthood groups (p for group × time interaction 0.008 and 0.001). Those transitioning to partnership decreased MVPA by 17 min/day, while partnered and separated individuals showed no notable MVPA change but decreased LPA by 14 and 43 min/day. Single individuals and non-parents decreased LPA and MVPA in similar proportions. New parents decreased MVPA by 20 min/day, while parents increased it by 19 min/day. Becoming first-time parent and starting relationship was associated with decline of MVPA. Our results suggest the importance of considering these life transitions and providing guidance for maintaining physical activity despite changes in life situations.

Dissociable contributions of the amygdala and ventral hippocampus to stress-induced changes in defensive behavior

Stress can have profound consequences on mental health. While much is known about the neural circuits supporting associative memories of stressful events, our understanding of the circuits underlying the non-associative impacts of stress, such as heightened stress sensitivity and anxiety-related behavior, is limited. Here, we demonstrate that the ventral hippocampus (vHC) and basolateral amygdala (BLA) support distinct non-associative behavioral changes following stress. Inhibiting stress-induced protein synthesis in the BLA blocked subsequent increases in stress sensitivity but not anxiety-related behaviors. Conversely, inhibiting stress-induced protein synthesis in the vHC blocked subsequent increases in anxiety-related behavior but not stress sensitivity. Inhibiting neuronal activity in the BLA and vHC during the assessment of stress sensitivity or anxiety-related behavior recapitulated these structures' dissociable contributions to defensive behavior. Lastly, blocking the associative memory of a stressor had no impact on stress-induced changes in anxiety-related behavior. These findings highlight that multiple memory systems support the long-lasting effects of stress.

Populating HIA of tobacco policies with empirical evidence on behavioral response to price increases

Abstract Performing Health Impact Assessment of tobacco policies requires to have insights into how smokers will react to policy measures such as price increases. In the Netherlands, a series of 3 substantial price increases has been implemented in 2020 (10% increase), 2023 (10% increase) and 2024 (24% increase). We performed three consecutive studies comparing the ex-ante stated preferences about behavioural response to actual and hypothetical future price increases, and compared these stated preferences with actual behaviour changes 6 months after the increase in excise tax. Two of these possible behavioural reactions actually will impact smoking prevalence or smoking intensity, e.g. stopping altogether and decreasing the number of cigarettes smoked. Other behavioural responses are less favourable and will not impact health, such as buying more and cheaper tobacco abroad and smoking less expensive brands or transferring from cigarettes to roll-your-own or e-cigarettes. For the price increases of 2020 and 2023, we have observed a substantial number of about 10% of smokers quitting successfully and about one third attempting to quit smoking. (Attempting to) quit smoking was much more prevalent among those with a more pronounced intention to stop smoking at the ex-ante measurements. At the same time, cross-border shopping increased significantly as well, with a 10 percent-point growth in the absolute amount of all tobacco consumed originating from abroad following the 10 percent price increase of April 2023. This big increase in cross-border shopping appeared to be independent of distance to the border. We conclude that every significant price increase stimulates smokers to consider to stop smoking. However, unilateral price increases in one country will eventually also stimulate smokers to buy cross-border. Behavioural data as presented should inform HIA to make them more realistic with regard to actual behaviour changes and health impacts of smoking policies.

Effectiveness of the educational training program for Japanese chief residents: A one‐year pilot study

AbstractBackgroundMulti‐institutional faculty development programs for chief residents were lacking in Japan. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the program for enhancing the knowledge and behaviors of chief residents at the national level.MethodsSix participants completed self‐assessment questionnaires at three points: before, immediately after, and 6 months post‐program. Knowledge and behavior changes were compared using the Mann–Whitney U test.ResultsSignificant improvements in knowledge were observed and maintained at 6 months. However, behavioral changes were limited, with significant improvements only in counseling skills.ConclusionThe program effectively increased knowledge but faced challenges in translating it into sustained behavioral change.

An integrated work health intervention among cleaners in Denmark

Abstract Introduction Work-related diseases are increasing and considered a global health challenge. Meanwhile, work-related risk factors and diseases are not equally distributed across occupational groups. Previous work health interventions have not succeeded in reducing the prevalence of work-related diseases. Therefore, integrated approaches combining prevention of disease and promotion of health in work health interventions have been developed. The aim of the Integrated Approach to Health, Wellbeing, and Productivity at Work (ITASPA) intervention was to prevent work-related injuries and diseases and promote the health, safety and wellbeing of cleaners. Methods The ITASPA intervention was implemented at two Danish workplaces among cleaners. At each workplace a committee of employees was established to develop their own initiatives to promote the health of the workers. By use of the British Medical research Council’s framework, a process evaluation was conducted. Qualitative data (focus group interview and field notes) and quantitative data (questionnaires) of participants evaluated the implementation. Results A total of 91 cleaners participated in health checks, and three workshops were held at each workplace. The development and implementation of activities was affected by mechanisms, such as lack of information about the intervention, new power dynamics, and lack of motivation for behavior changes, and contextual factors, such as many replacements, time pressure and absence of managers. Conclusions Integrated approaches in work health interventions among employees with short or no education may positively impact employees’ health, wellbeing and safety if comprehensively implemented. However, attention should be drawn to interventions that adapt a participatory design, as unintended power dynamics may occur when employees are given the tasks of implementing behavior changes among colleagues. The role of managers to obtain successful implementation should be highlighted.

Changes in overweight and overweight-related health behavior in higher education students in Finland

Abstract Introduction Covid-19 pandemic may have had negative effects on overweight and overweight-related health behavior in young adults. The aim was to examine the changes in overweight, physical activity, sedentary behavior and daytime tiredness in higher education students during and after the pandemic. Methods Two cross-sectional student representative surveys (aged 18-34 y) were conducted in 2021 (n = 6258, response rate 53 %) and 2024 (n = 3638, response rate 31 %). Overweight (BMI ≥25 kg/m2) was based on self-reported height and weight. Physical activity was dichotomized into those meeting physical activity recommendations and others. Sedentary behavior was dichotomized into sitting in front of TV, computer or smart device over three hours a day during leisure time and others. Daytime tiredness was dichotomized into those feeling tired 6-7 days a week and others. Results The preliminary results indicate that overweight in women increased from 34 % to 39 % whereas no increase was observed among men (47 % vs. 46 %) between 2021 and 2024. Meeting the physical activity recommendation increased from 46 % to 55 %, the change being similar for both sexes. Sitting over three hours in leisure time in front of TV, computer or smart device decreased from 54 % to 50 %. In men, the prevalence of sitting decreased (62% vs. 57 %) whereas in women no statistically significant change was observed (47% vs 45 %). No statistically significant change was observed in feeling tired almost every day (26 % vs 24 %). Conclusions Among higher education students, an increase in prevalence of overweight in women was observed for three years period. Favourable changes were observed in physical activity in both men and women, and sedentary behavior in men. Surveillance of the long-term health consequences of the pandemic in young adults is important for planning and targeting preventive activities. Key messages • Overweight increased among female higher education students after COVID-19 pandemic. • Factors supporting favourable changes in health behaviour of young adults after pandemic should be examined in longitudinal setting.

Changes in physical activity and sedentary behavior during COVID-19 pandemic restrictions in Germany

Abstract Background During the COVID-19 pandemic’s first wave, mobility restrictions and protective measures have impacted both public and private life. In Germany, the population was advised to stay home except for work, outdoor sport activities, and essential shopping. This study aims to evaluate how these measures affected physical activity and sedentary behavior, focusing on identifying the groups most affected. Methods In April and May 2020, we distributed a COVID-19-specific questionnaire to participants of the German National Cohort (NAKO). The questionnaire was specifically designed to assess changes in physical activity and sedentary behavior compared to pre-restriction levels, along with data on anxiety and depressive symptoms. Results Around 26 % of the 152,421 respondents reported increased sedentary time, and about 38 % reported reduced participation in sport activities compared to pre-restriction levels. Over one-third of those who previously met the WHO’s physical activity recommendation could not maintain it during the restrictions. There was also a notable decline in active transportation (M = - 0.12; 95% CI: -.126; -.117), whereas participants spent more time on recreational physical activities (M = 0.12; 95% CI: .117; .126). Based on multivariable linear and log-binomial regression models, we found that younger people were more affected by the restrictions than older adults. Factors such as transitioning to remote work, self-rated health, and depressive symptoms strongly correlated with changes in all physical activity domains, including sedentary behavior and adherence to physical activity guidelines. Conclusions The shift towards inactivity or low-intensity activities during the nationwide restrictions poses potential long-term health risks, highlighting the urgent need for public health policies to address the negative impact of COVID-19 restrictions on physical activity and sedentary behavior.

Religious Experience Of Sapta Darma Followers In The Temple Centre Sapta Rengga Yogyakarta City

This research aims to understand the religious experiences of Sapta Darma adherents through the theoretical perspective of Joachim Wach. Sapta Darma believers are a group of believers who have spiritual views and practices that are 'unique' in Indonesia. In this study, researchers used Joachim Wach's theoretical framework, religious experiences were analyzed through three main components: experience dimensions, expression dimensions, and consequence dimensions. This research uses a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach to explore the religious experiences of Sapta Darma adherents. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with believers and participant observation of their religious rituals and practices. The results of the research show that the religious experience of Sapta Darma Sanggar Sanggar Candi Sapta Rengga, Yogyakarta City includes religious experiences which are often experienced through prostration, digging and special rituals. The expression dimension is seen in the form of prayers, mantras and symbols used in religious practices. Meanwhile, the consequence dimension includes changes in behavior and outlook on life of Sapta Darma adherents. Analysis based on Joachim Wach's theory reveals that the religious experiences of Sapta Darma adherents not only provide meaning and purpose in their lives but also form a strong spiritual identity. This study provides insight into how religious experiences can be articulated and internalized in local cultural contexts.

Dihydro-resveratrol ameliorates NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated neuroinflammation via Bnip3-dependent mitophagy in Alzheimer's disease.

Dihydro-resveratrol (DHR), a polyphenol derivative, that has been demonstrated to suppress inflammation-mediated injury. However, it is still unknown whether it has anti-neuroinflammatory and neuroprotective effects, and a therapeutic action in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The anti-inflammatory and anti-Alzheimer's disease actions of dihydro-resveratrol were investigated using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and AD mice models, and primary microglial cells. The changes in behaviour in mice were detected by the Morris water maze test and open-field test. Flow cytometry assay, western blotting, immunofluorescence assays and co-immunoprecipitation were used to investigate the changes in the NLRP3 inflammasome activation and mitophagy. In this study, in vivo observations indicated that the administration of dihydro-resveratrol (DHR) dramatically restored spatial learning, memory ability, autophagy and mitophagy, attenuated NLRP3 inflammasome activation, neuroinflammation and amyloid precursor protein pathology in LPS mice and AD mice. In addition, the inhibition of autophagy and mitophagy, or the activation of NLRP3 in vivo greatly abolished DHR-generated therapeutic efficacy on neuroinflammation, amyloid precursor protein pathology and cognitive loss. Further examination indicated that the application of DHR after the LPS and ATP exposure significantly inhibited the NLRP3 inflammasome activation, neuroinflammation and enhanced autophagic and mitophagic activation in microglia. Additionally, in vitro results show that DHR protects microglial cells against LPS and ATP-induced cytotoxicity by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome through activating Bnip3-dependent mitophagy and ULK phosphorylation. In summary, these findings suggest that dihydro-resveratrol (DHR) possesses potent anti-neuroinflammatory property and can act as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of AD.

Addressing the complexities of evaluating comprehensive sexuality education: an Italian case study

Abstract Background Existing evaluation methods for assessing sexuality education programs may not be suitable for Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) interventions, which are globally indicated as the most effective approach for promoting sexual health and preventing STIs. This holds particular significance in countries, such as Italy, where CSE is not integrated into school curricula. In a pilot project funded by the Italian Ministry of Health since 2019 (EduForIST), we aimed to develop a composite evaluation framework to test the CSE intervention we implemented in lower and upper secondary schools over the past 4 years. Methods Based on the latest available evidence, evaluating a CSE intervention requires addressing various dimensions. These include assessing the quality of programs and their implementation, as well as measuring outcomes and impact. Through iterative consultations with experts and providers, methods, criteria, and metrics were chosen and tested for each dimension. Results Program quality was evaluated by an expert advisory board. Instruments for implementation quality assessment included: satisfaction survey among students; reflective journals and SWOT analysis drawn up by educators delivering intervention, exploring their perceptions, practices, and attitudes; surveys among teachers and parents, measuring knowledge, attitude, and practice on CSE, and observed changes among adolescents. A four-arm, Solomon, cluster design study was designed to evaluate outcomes in terms of changes in students’ knowledge. Clinical and behavioral indicators in the short, medium and long term were selected as measures of the impact of the intervention. Conclusions In the field of CSE implementation research, a multi-component approach to evaluation is needed to provide a solid basis for informing policymakers. The involvement of providers, recipients and contextual adults is essential in evaluating CSE interventions. However, assessing long-term impact requires long time frame. Key messages • Assessing CSE interventions requires a multi-component evaluation approach, considering the impact on the personal and emotional development of individuals in order to sustain behavior changes. • The proposed evaluation framework may inform scientific community, professionals, and decision-makers on effectiveness of interventions in settings where CSE is not yet included in school curricula.

Necrostatin-1 as a Potential Anticonvulsant: Insights from Zebrafish Larvae Model of PTZ-Induced Seizures.

Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder affecting around 70 million people worldwide. Despite significant research and advancements in pharmaceutical therapies, the exact mechanisms underlying epileptogenesis remain unclear. As a result, current antiepileptic drug treatments are ineffective for approximately 30% of patients, providing only symptomatic relief. The epileptic process is influenced by the signaling of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), which affects neuronal excitability. The TNFα/TNFR1 signaling pathway and the role of RIPK1 in initiating inflammatory cell death pathways are well studied in human disorders. Dysregulation of RIPK1 is linked to inflammation and neurodegenerative diseases. Necrostatin-1 (Nec-1) selectively inhibits RIPK1 in various pathological conditions. The current study aimed to investigate the anticonvulsant properties of Nec-1 (a selective RIPK1 inhibitor) in PTZ-induced seizures in zebrafish larvae. Before the onset of seizures, zebrafish were treated with Nec-1 (15µM) for 24h at 6days post-fertilization (dpf), followed by exposure to 15mM of PTZ for 30min. Behavioral assessments were conducted to observe changes in locomotor activity. Additionally, c-Fos expression was measuredas an indicator of neuronal activation and analyzed mRNA levels of the astrocyte activation marker (GFAP) along with various inflammatory cytokines. Western blot analysis was conducted to evaluate GABAA receptor expression. Pretreatment with Nec-1 restored normal behavior and reversed the expression of c-Fos in zebrafish larvae induced by PTZ. Additionally, Nec-1 reduced the elevated mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines and significantly suppressed TNF/TNFR1 signaling, thereby inhibiting the enhanced internalization of GABAA receptors. Our findings indicate that Nec-1 reduced the severity of PTZ-induced seizures in zebrafish by regulating behavior changes, suppressing inflammatory mediators, and enhancing the expression of GABAA receptors, suggesting potential anticonvulsant properties.

A cross-sectional study on health behavior changes during COVID-19 among adults in Malaysia

IntroductionCOVID-19 has triggered significant disruptions globally, necessitating swift adaptations in individuals’ health behaviors.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted during Phase Four of Malaysia’s National Recovery Plan and examines how the pandemic has affected health behaviors among adult Malaysians. The study gathered data online using convenience sampling with 1,004 respondents aged 18 and above. The research focused on diverse health domains, including eating habits, physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and sleep patterns. The Wilcoxon Signed Rank test and descriptive statistics were employed to compare health behaviors before and after COVID-19.ResultsFindings indicate noteworthy shifts in eating behaviors, with increased water and fruit consumption (p < .001). The frequency of home-cooked meals stayed relatively stable despite declining dinner preference and increasing daily snacks. Physical activity declined, marked by increased sedentary behavior and screen time (p < .001). There were differences in the patterns of smoking and alcohol consumption; some had started these behaviors during the pandemic. Notably, intentions to quit smoking among respondents were more prominent than attempts to stop drinking. Respondents’ sleep patterns also changed, with more sleeping fewer than seven hours daily (p < .001).ConclusionThe study emphasizes the need for focused interventions to address new challenges by highlighting the impact on health behaviors. As Malaysia navigates the post-pandemic landscape, understanding and mitigating the persisting effects on health behaviors are crucial for promoting overall well-being.

How does a Smoke-Free campus initiative generates changes in smoking? A theory-based evaluation

Abstract Background Smoke-free campuses (SFC) prohibit smoking and vaping on all university grounds and for all users. Despite their effectiveness in reducing smoking prevalence, passive smoking, and denormalizing tobacco use, the complex interplay between the programme activities and their impact on users and campus environments remain unclear. This study aims to improve our understanding of the transformation processes associated with SFC expected outcomes. Methods We conducted a retrospective qualitative study on the first SFC implemented in France by the EHESP School of Public Health. Guided by Mayne’s theory of change framework that includes ten dimensions of an impact pathway (e.g. activities, reach/reaction, capacity, behaviour changes, etc.), the research examined the chain of effects and hypotheses driving this SFC. Our dataset included internal documents (e.g. minutes of meetings, administrative documents) and semi-structured interviews with stakeholders (n = 16) involved in the development and implementation of the analysed SFC. Data is currently being analysed. Results Initial results suggest that the EHESP’s SFC activities included communication initiatives, student ambassadors, cessation support for smokers, installation of smoking shelters on campus periphery, etc. These activities were geared on capacity change (e.g. securing support and compliance among campus users, reduce smoking opportunities, promoting the use of cessation aids) and were intended to drive behaviour change (reducing smoking and facilitating cessation among students and staff). The goal of this SFC was not only to impact behaviors but also to educate future health service managers at EHESP to implement SFC policies and set an example for other institutions in France. Conclusions This study identifies some of the transformations that activities of the EHESP’s SFC can generate in students and staff in order to fulfil its outcomes. It also highlighted its expected impact on other institutions. Key messages • Understanding how a smoke-free campus generates its changes is essential in facilitating transferability of experiences to other universities. • Smoke-free campus policies can also generate a broader impact on other institutions.

Assessing the therapeutic potential of KK14 peptide derived from Cyprinus Carpio in reducing intercellular ROS levels in oxidative Stress-Induced In vivo zebrafish larvae model: An integrated bioinformatics, antioxidant, and neuroprotective analysis.

H2O2 is a significant reactive oxygen species (ROS) that hinders redox-mediated processes and contributes to oxidative stress and neurodegenerative disorders. Oxidative stress causes impairment of cell macromolecules, which results in cell dysfunction and neurodegeneration. Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases are serious conditions linked to oxidative stress. Antioxidant treatment approaches are a novel and successful strategy for decreasing neurodegeneration and reducing oxidative stress. This study explored the antioxidant and neuroprotective characteristics of KK14 peptide synthesized from LEAP 2B (liver-expressed antimicrobial peptide-2B) derived from Cyprinus carpio L. Molecular docking studies were used to assess the antioxidant properties of KK14. The peptide at concentrations 5-45 μM was examined by using in vitro and in vivo assessment. Analysis was done on the developmental and neuroprotective potential of KK14 peptide treatment in H2O2-exposed zebrafish larvae which showed Nonlethal deformities. KK14 improves antioxidant enzyme activity like catalase and superoxide dismutase. Furthermore, it reduces neuronal damage by lowering lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide generation while increasing acetylcholinesterase activity. It improved the changes in swimming behavior and the cognitive damage produced by exposure to H2O2. To further substantiate the neuroprotective potential of KK14, intracellular ROS levels in zebrafish larvae were assessed. This led to a reduction in ROS levels and diminished lipid peroxidation. The KK14 has upregulated the antioxidant genes against oxidative stress. Overall, this study proved the strong antioxidant activity of KK14, suggesting its potential as a strong therapeutic option for neurological disorders caused by oxidative stress.

Physical fitness in youth: a systematic review of changes during and after the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract Background Restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic induced changes in the fitness behavior of children and adolescents, which may be associated with long-term public health challenges. This systematic review analyses how physical fitness has changed during the pandemic and to what extent the changes remain in the aftermath of the pandemic. Methods We conducted a systematic search in seven databases with a peer-reviewed search string for studies until Dec 2023. Our inclusion criteria encompassed studies with children and adolescents ≤19 years living in the WHO European Region and in which validated measurements were used (single measurements or test batteries). Eligibility screening, data extraction and risk of bias assessment (using ROBINS-E instrument) were all carried out independently by two reviewers. We published an a priori protocol in a peer-review journal and conducted reporting in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 statement. Trial registration: PROSPERO: CRD42023395871. Results Our search retrieved 28 studies from 15 WHO European Region countries with an age range from 5 to 19 years. Physical fitness was reported in 21 validated single measurements (e.g. 20 m shuttle run, handgrip strength, standing long jump) and 9 validated test batteries (e.g. Alpha-Fitness Battery, German Motor Test, International Physical Performance Test Profile). The preliminary analyses pointed to a sharp decline in youth physical fitness during the COVID-19 pandemic. After restrictions were eased, physical fitness improved, but remained under pre-pandemic levels, particularly in boys. Conclusions The findings indicate a potential suboptimal behavioral adaptation of children and adolescents after the COVID-19 pandemic. Medium and long-term programs to change passive behavior and improve physical fitness are urgently needed. In addition to individual prevention programs, stronger consideration should also be given to schools and sport clubs regarding activities promoting physical fitness. Key messages • Physical fitness in children and adolescents remains below pre-pandemic levels after restrictions removal. • Initiating immediate public health action to increase physical fitness is urgently needed.

Training of women in the methodology of Gamification for the promotion of healthy habits in children

Abstract Background It has been evidenced that gamification has scope in the change of people behavior and in the acquisition of knowledge, therefore this methodology contributes to the promotion of health and adapts to the needs of children from the language of play, which increases their motivation in health literacy processes, so it is necessary to encourage the acquisition of new methodologies for community mothers and women caregivers, who are configured as promoters of healthy habits with their children. Objectives To train 150 women in the methodology of Gamification for the promotion of healthy habits in children; for which 20 sessions were developed addressing the following modules: a) Empowerment of women b) Gamification methodology c) Healthy habits and lifestyles d) Healthy eating e) Physical activity. Results The training of women evidenced a) the empowerment and recognition as health promoters for their life and that of their community b) the identification of the methodology of gamification and its application in processes of promotion of healthy habits c) a high adherence in the participation and learning through gamification methodology, training 150 women through sessions mediated by Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), Learning and Knowledge Technologies (TACs) and Technologies of Empowerment and Participation (TEP) enabling the participation of women from urban and rural territories, which accounts for an inclusive process and democratization of health knowledge, impacting both women and their families, communities and children under their care, an average of 5 members per woman, benefiting 750 people in health promotion actions. Conclusions 150 women were certified, who from the application of the gamification methodology promote healthy habits in children, in their families and their communities, starting from the recognition of the experience of these in themselves to be health promoters in their territories. Key messages • Training women in gamification methodologies to promote healthy habits in children strengthens the health system by empowering them in their role as health literacy teachers in their territories. • ICT, TAC and TEP enable access to health education from an inclusive process that democratizes knowledge so that communities are active agents in health promotion activities.

Prey responses to direct and indirect predation risk cues reveal the importance of multiple information sources.

Prey can use several information sources (cues) to assess predation risk and avoid predation with a variety of behavioural responses (e.g., changes in activity, foraging, vigilance, social behaviour, space use, and reproductive behaviour). Direct cues produced by predators and indirect cues from environmental features or conspecific and heterospecific prey generally provide different types of information about predation risk. Despite widespread interest in understanding behavioural antipredator responses to direct and indirect cues, a clear general pattern of relative response strength across taxa and environments has yet to emerge. We conducted a meta-analysis of studies (N = 113 articles and 999 effect sizes taken from a search of over 7500 articles) testing behavioural responses to direct and indirect cues of predation risk, and their combination, across terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. We further contrasted if effects were moderated by ecosystem type (terrestrial, marine, or freshwater), cue source (predator, conspecific, heterospecific, or environmental feature), or sensory modality (visual, auditory, or chemosensory). Overall, there were strong effects of risk cues on prey behaviour. We found that prey responded more strongly when both types of cues were presented together compared with either cue in isolation, which was driven by changes in prey activity levels but not other behaviours. There was no general pattern in response strength to direct compared with indirect cues. Responses to these cues were moderated by interactions between environment, cue source, and cue sensory modality (e.g., visual cues elicited stronger responses than other modalities, and responses to conspecific chemosensory cues were stronger than those to predator chemosensory cues in aquatic systems). These results suggest that rather than a broad framework of direct and indirect cues, the specific context of the system should be considered in tests and predictions of how prey respond to risk to elucidate general patterns of antipredator responses.

The effects of Mid-Holocene foragers on the European oyster in Denmark

Oysters (Ostreidae) play a pivotal role in the health and productivity of marine ecosystems. Their unique ability to filter water, provide habitat, and contribute to nutrient cycling has remained underused in many parts of Europe following the destruction of vast oyster beds in the 19th and 20th centuries. The burgeoning field of oyster restoration for aquaculture has recognized the potential of these bivalves in promoting ecosystem resilience and enhancing biodiversity. Restoring oysters to previous levels requires the establishment of ecological baselines that ideally take into account the long-term changes of animal behavior as well as the surrounding environment prior to significant human intervention, an extremely challenging task. Archaeological shell middens are invaluable baseline archives and provide exclusive insights into past ecosystems. Here, we use demographic information from over 2,000 analyzed European oyster (Ostrea edulis) shells dating from ~5,660 to 2,600 cal BCE (calibrated years BCE), the largest archaeological growth rate dataset of mollusks yet. Through the analysis of size as well as ontogenetic age, we decouple anthropogenic from environmental impacts throughout Denmark. Our data show definitive influence of oyster size-age structure through human harvesting during the Mid-Holocene, with older oysters in the Mesolithic (mean: 4.9 y) than the Neolithic (mean: 3.7 y), irrespective of changes in growth rate. Furthermore, we present the metrics for long-term sustainable harvesting of oysters across environmental and socioeconomic transitions, providing demographic targets for current oyster restoration projects and valuable context in mitigating the impact of modern climatic change.

Perception of antibiotics in Polish Internet during the infection season 2023/2024

Aim. Public health researchers have used the Internet for disease surveillance, the assessment of risk perception and behaviour changes during epidemics in the past. Cur- rently, investigations of antibiotics (ABx) mentions and the closely related concept of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) on the Internet are mostly limited to information retrieval as well as simple analysis of Google Trends and media narratives. Methods. To address these shortcomings, we perform media listening and analysis for monitoring of ABx perception in the Polish segment of the Internet during November and December 2023 with Brand24 – a comprehensive Internet analysis tool – based on 2668 mentions. Results. Although the scientific community is aware of the importance of AMR, it was not reflected by the general public perception. Real life examples of public engagement related to practical solutions – such as natural and alternative medicine, and ABx acqui- sition with special focus on children among others – dominated the Internet discourse. Conclusion. Our findings demonstrate that while the interest in health topics in the general Polish population is high, it is often not matched by a sound biomedical literacy. A long-term patient engagement could be difficult, as they tend to think from an indi- vidual perspective (how to help myself/my family/my companion animal) rather than in the context of public health and one health.

Design of stiffness-variable dielectric elastomer wing based on seagull characteristics and its application in avian flight bionics

ABSTRACT Dielectric elastomers (DE), renowned for their lightweight, rapid response, high energy density, and efficient conversion, have garnered significant attention in the realm of avian flight bionics. However, a lack of understanding of the mechanical principles underlying flapping wing biomimetics has hindered accurate simulations of actual bird flight postures. To address this, a stiffness-variable DE-based wing (DEW) has been designed, inspired by the characteristics of seagulls, to mimic the wing deformations across different bird flight phases. The evolution of the DEW’s deformation is modeled based on the differential equation describing the bending curve of a DE cantilever beam. By applying different voltage cycles, three continuous avian flight postures have been replicated: takeoff, cruising, and hovering. The simulation results demonstrate that the stiffness-variable DEW effectively mimics the wing deformations observed in birds during different flight postures, closely resembling real-world flight conditions. This study has the potential to serve as an important reference for exploring changes in bird flight behavior, thereby advancing the application of DE materials in the field of soft robotics.