Activity Log Research Articles

Student dropout prediction through machine learning optimization: insights from moodle log data

Student attrition and academic failure remain pervasive challenges in education, often occurring at substantial rates and posing considerable difficulties for timely identification and intervention. Learning management systems such as Moodle generate extensive datasets reflecting student interactions and enrollment patterns, presenting opportunities for predictive analytics. This study seeks to advance the field of dropout and failure prediction through the application of artificial intelligence with machine learning methodologies. In particular, we employed the CatBoost algorithm, trained on student activity logs from the Moodle platform. To mitigate the challenges posed by a limited and imbalanced dataset, we employed sophisticated data balancing techniques, such as Adaptive Synthetic Sampling, and conducted multi-objective hyperparameter optimization using the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II. We compared models trained on weekly log data against a single model trained on all weeks’ data. The proposed model trained with all weeks’ data demonstrated superior performance, showing significant improvements in F1-scores and recall, particularly for the minority class of at-risk students. For example, the model got an average F1-score across multiple weeks of approximately 0.8 in the holdout test. These findings underscore the potential of targeted machine learning approaches to facilitate early identification of at-risk students, thereby enabling timely interventions and improving educational outcomes.

Organic-based remediation of heavy metal-contaminated soils in the Taojia river basin affected by long-term non-ferrous mining and logging activities

The upper reaches of the Taojia River have been impacted by unregulated logging linked to non-ferrous metal mining, resulting in significant mineral waste accumulation. Composting has shown promise in reducing heavy metal (HM) contamination in agricultural soils. This study included two segments: the first examined the effects of sheep manure (SM) and chicken manure (CM) with different concentrations on lead (Pb) dynamics in vegetable soils. The second applied the most effective method identified in segment one to assess Pb, cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) in soil, paddy, and straw in rice fields. Results showed that both compost types increased soil pH to mildly alkaline levels, with SM causing dose-dependent rises (insignificant between 2% and 5%) and CM inducing non-proportional alkalinity. CM compost significantly enhanced soil organic matter (SOM: 0.606–0.660 g/kg) compared to SM (0.414–0.495 g/kg). Total nitrogen (TN) spiked at 2% SM (0.172 g/kg) but plateaued until 10% SM (0.210 g/kg), while CM linearly increased TN with dosage. Total phosphorus (TP) rose proportionally with SM but remained unchanged under CM. For Pb immobilization, 5% SM reduced DTPA-Pb to 11.877 mg/kg, but 10% SM increased it (14.006 mg/kg), whereas 10% CM achieved optimal passivation (11.561 mg/kg). Correlation analyses linked compost dosage to SOM, TP, and available Pb (p < 0.05), with soil pH showing minimal direct influence. In rice fields, 10% CM elevated soil pH (7.10 vs. 6.71), TP, and total Zn/Cu/Pb/Cd but reduced Pb/Cd in paddy and straw. Heavy metal speciation revealed strong inter-state correlations (excluding exchangeable Pb), with soil pH and TP significantly influencing Zn, Cu, and Cd levels. These findings demonstrate CM compost’s dual role in improving fertility and mitigating Pb/Cd uptake, though Zn/Cu accumulation risks require careful management.

Timber Harvesting in Mountainous Regions: A Comprehensive Review

Mountain ecosystems play a crucial role in providing ecosystem services, with some of the most important being carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, land protection, and water source preservation. Additionally, timber harvesting in these regions presents significant environmental, economic, and social challenges. This study provides a comprehensive bibliometric and systematic analysis of publications on timber harvesting in mountainous areas, examining the current state, global trends, key contributors, and the impact of forestry operations. A total of 357 publications on timber harvesting in mountainous areas have been identified, spanning from 1983 to 2024. These publications predominantly originate from the USA, Canada, Australia, and China, with additional contributions from European institutions. The research is published in leading forestry, ecology, and environmental science journals, highlighting its global impact. This study provides an in-depth bibliometric and systematic analysis, assessing research trends, key contributors, and their influence on scientific advancements in sustainable forestry and ecological conservation. These articles belong to the scientific fields of Environmental Science and Ecology, Forestry, Zoology, and Biodiversity Conservation, among others. They have been published in numerous journals, with the most frequently cited ones being Forest Ecology and Management, Journal of Wildlife Management, and Forests. The most frequently used keywords include dynamics, management, and timber harvest. The analysis of publications on timber harvesting in mountainous areas highlights the widespread use of primary harvesting methods, the negative effects of logging activities on soil, forest regeneration processes, and wildlife populations, as well as the role of advanced technologies in improving harvesting efficiency. While sustainable management practices, such as selective cutting and low-impact harvesting techniques, can mitigate some negative effects, concerns remain regarding soil erosion, habitat alteration, and carbon emissions. This analysis underscores the need for flexible forest management strategies that balance economic efficiency with ecological sustainability. Future research should focus on innovative harvesting techniques, adaptation measures to terrain and climate conditions, and the long-term impact of forestry activities on mountain ecosystems.

Effective management of pre-existing biofilms using UV-LED through inactivation, disintegration and peeling.

Effective management of pre-existing biofilms using UV-LED through inactivation, disintegration and peeling.

Exploring Usability of a Clinical Decision Support System for Cancer Care: A User-Centered Study.

Adverse effects are a common burden for cancer patients, impacting their well-being and diminishing their quality of life. Therefore, it is essential to have a clinical decision support system that can proactively monitor patient progress to prevent and manage complications. This research aims to thoroughly test the usability and user-friendliness of a medical device designed for managing adverse events for cancer patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs). The study seeks to assess how well the device meets both patients' and HCPs' needs in real-world scenarios. The study used a multi-method approach to obtain a comprehensive understanding of participants experience and objective measure of usability. The testing was conducted with a diverse group of participants of six patients and six HCPs. Analysis included a descriptive summary of the demographic data, scenario completion rates, System Usability Scale (SUS) questionnaire score, and qualitative feedback from users. All participants successfully completed 100% of the activities, indicating a high level of understanding and usability across both user groups. Only two out of six patients encountered errors during the login activities, but these errors were unrelated to product safety. The obtained SUS score is in the 90th percentile for both user groups, classifying the device as grade A and highlighting its superior usability. Patients and HCPs found the interface intuitive and expressed an interest in incorporating the application into their daily routines and would recommend the application to others. The assessed digital health medical device demonstrates excellent usability, safety, and ease of use for oncology patients and HCPs. Based on the received constructive feedback, minor improvements were identified for further refinement of the application that do not affect either its intended functionality or the overall functioning of the tool. Future work will focus on implementing these improvements and conducting further usability studies in clinical environments.

Exploring the Role of Traditional Ecological Knowledge in Restoring and Managing Miombo Woodlands: A Case Study from the Lubumbashi Region, Democratic Republic of the Congo

The overexploitation of forest resources in the Lubumbashi Charcoal Production Basin in the southeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) leads to deforestation and miombo woodlands degradation, threatening local livelihoods. Current forestry policies are ineffective, partly due to neglecting traditional ecological knowledge (TEK). This study identifies and describes TEK and practices related to biodiversity conservation and sustainable miombo woodlands management. Focus groups and interviews were conducted in four villages (Maksem, Mwawa, Nsela, and Texas), selected based on forest resource availability and population size. Data on sacred sites, conservation practices, knowledge transmission, ceremonies, and socio-demographic factors were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Fisher’s exact test, and Jaccard’s similarity index. The findings revealed that 75% of respondents identified sacred sites where logging activities are strictly prohibited. Thirty sacred tree species were identified, with stronger compliance in villages with a high availability of forest resources. This TEK is predominantly transmitted orally through family councils, as well as traditional ceremonies or rituals. Conservation practices include small-scale farming, intercropping, avoiding tree cutting in sacred sites, and using deadwood. However, only farming and intercropping are still commonly practiced, particularly in resource-scarce villages (64%). Women and elders are primary custodians of TEK, though its application is constrained by population growth and dwindling forest resources. The findings emphasize the crucial role of TEK in strengthening forest restoration initiatives by selecting key woody species and sustainable practices, while fostering community involvement. As such, decision makers should prioritize integrating TEK into DR Congo’s forest policies to support biodiversity conservation and miombo woodlands restoration efforts.

Motor Impairment and Disuse Are Independent Predictors of Vascular Outcomes Poststroke.

Cardiorespiratory fitness is reduced after stroke due to inactivity which may cause structural and functional changes to blood vessels in the extremities. Identifying clinical factors contributing to vascular function may be important for tailoring rehabilitation programs that reduce secondary disease risk and adverse events. The study objective was to compare measures of arterial and intramuscular blood flow between the paretic and nonparetic upper limbs of individuals with stroke and healthy comparators. Associations between these parameters and stroke-related impairment were also examined. This was a cross-sectional study. The setting was a university laboratory. Participants were individuals with stroke (n = 64; mean age = 60.8 [SD = 7.7] years) and matched controls (n = 64; mean age = 59.4 [SD = 7.8] years). Brachial artery blood flow volume (Vflow) and arterial diameter (AD) were measured using Doppler ultrasound. Intramuscular blood perfusion of the biceps brachii was estimated using the vascularity index (VI). Motor recovery and perceived use of paretic upper limbs were assessed with the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) and Motor Activity Log (MAL), respectively. Side × group interactions were observed for AD (F = 22.6) and VI (F = 4.00). Post hoc analyses showed lower AD and VI for paretic sides (stroke group), greater Vflow for dominant sides (comparators), and greater percent side-to-side differences (%SSDs) in AD and VI for the stroke group than for comparators. %SSDs in Vflow, AD, and VI demonstrated weak correlations with impairment (MAL, FMA) (ρ = 0.253 to 0.347). MAL was an independent predictor of %SSD in Vflow (β = -0.286), and FMA was an independent predictor of %SSDs in AD (β = -0.307) and VI (β = 0.371). Relative to the nonparetic and bilateral limbs of comparators, arterial size and intramuscular blood flow in the paretic upper limbs of individuals with stroke were significantly reduced. Motor impairment and disuse emerged as independent predictors of all vascular outcomes and may be potential intervention targets for reducing cardiovascular disease risk after stroke.

Validation of physical activity recall questionnaire and log using doubly-labelled water in Sri Lankan children.

Valid and cost-effective approaches are essential to assess physical activity and sedentary behaviours in individuals of all ages. This study aimed to validate a physical activity recall questionnaire (PAR-Q) and a physical activity log against the doubly labelled water (DLW) technique in 11-13-year-old Sri Lankan children. Total energy expenditure (TEE) was determined using the criterion DLW technique (TEEDLW) and physical activity energy expenditure (PAEEDLW) was estimated. Subsequently, physical activity assessment methods were validated in a group of children (n = 79). PAR-Q was adapted from the adolescent physical activity questionnaire and the physical activity log from the Bouchard activity diary. The youth physical activity compendium was used to calculate PAEE from both PAR-Q (PAEEPAR-Q) and activity log (PAEEPALog). Statistical analysis included Pearson's correlation coefficient and Bland-Altman analyses. Mean age of the study sample was 12.0 ± 0.8 years where the greater proportion were males (51.9%, n = 41). PAEEPAR-Q and PAEEPALog were significantly correlated with the PAEEDLW (r = 0.69 and r = 0.49, p < 0.05). PAR-Q underestimated PAEE by 230.1 ± 1071.1 kJ/day. Physical activity log overestimated PAEE by 14.6 ± 1283.2 kJ/day; for unit increase in the mean of the two measurements, the difference between the measurements increased by 0.48 (R2 = 0.16, p < 0.001). PAR-Q is a valid tool for predicting PAEE in Sri Lankan children whereas the physical activity log was not. Researchers and practitioners can confidently use the PAR-Q to assess physical activity in this population, with potential applications in various research and intervention settings.

Level of compliance with timber logging regulations in Central Cross River State, Nigeria

The remorseless neglect of forest laws and regulations in timber logging operations is worrisome and detrimental to the health of the forests. This study is aimed at assessing the level of compliance with timber logging regulations in Central Cross River State. The projected population of nine (9) sampled communities from three (3) LGAs which were purposively sampled based on their predominance in illegal logging activities was subjected to Taro Yamene formula to get the sample size of three hundred and ninety-six (396) respondents for the study. Data was collected through the use of semi-structured questionnaire and analysed by the Likert scale rating format. The research findings showed that loggers comply more to forest laws and regulations during periods where there is ban on timber harvesting, where there is strict supervision, control and regulations because of the ban. It is therefore recommended that ban on timber exploitation in the study area be enforced since compliance with forest regulations is higher during the ban period, as well as reviewing and strictly enforcing forest laws and regulations, and also encouraging the locals to manage their own forest (participatory forest management) to improve compliance. Enlightenment campaigns through media such as billboards, radio, television, seminars, workshops, handbill, etc. on the need to comply with forest laws and regulations should be organized by the Government, NGOs, and well-meaning individuals to encourage compliance with forest regulations on timber logging operations.

Terrestrial wildlife shows limited response in spatiotemporal activity to logging

AbstractWhile habitat loss and hunting remain the major drivers of biodiversity declines, sublethal disturbances, such as human presence, recreation, and noise also impact wildlife. In response, wildlife often adjust their spatiotemporal behaviors. This study assesses how terrestrial wildlife responds to sublethal disturbances associated with sustainable logging activities. Using camera traps, we conducted a 2‐year continuous survey of two logging compartments within an active, sustainably logged forest reserve in central Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. The survey encompassed periods before, during, and after logging activities, and we obtained daily felling data. Using generalized linear mixed models, we assessed the impact of logging on the spatiotemporal activity of 10 terrestrial mammal and galliform species, considering spatial factors like logging intensity and distance from logging activity, and temporal factors such as days since logging. Four species had a significant and strong response to logging intensity, with varied directions of effect. Only for one species, the response to logging intensity was mediated by time since logging. Though only descriptive, we found no evidence of diel activity shifts, and, for all other species detected during our survey, general patterns in the number of records across each logging period were mixed. Our results highlight the variable and species‐specific responses to logging activity. At a local scale, many species exhibit resilience in their spatiotemporal activity patterns, but for affected species, the effects of logging appear to linger over time. The overall limited response could be due to the relatively low disturbance nature of reduced‐impact logging.

Inactivation Kinetics of Alicylobacillus acidoterrestris Spores and Determination of Spore Germicidal Fluences Under UV-C Treatment.

Inactivation Kinetics of Alicylobacillus acidoterrestris Spores and Determination of Spore Germicidal Fluences Under UV-C Treatment.

Construct validity and responsiveness of clinical upper limb measures and sensor-based arm use within the first year after stroke: a longitudinal cohort study

BackgroundConstruct validity and responsiveness of upper limb outcome measures are essential to interpret motor recovery poststroke. Evaluating the associations between clinical upper limb measures and sensor-based arm use (AU) fosters a coherent understanding of motor recovery. Defining sensor-based AU metrics for intentional upper limb movements could be crucial in mitigating bias from walking-related activities. Here, we investigate the measurement properties of a comprehensive set of clinical measures and sensor-based AU metrics when gait and non-functional upper limb movements are excluded.MethodsIn this prospective, longitudinal cohort study, individuals with motor impairment were measured at days 3 ± 2 (D3), 10 ± 2 (D10), 28 ± 4 (D28), 90 ± 7 (D90), and 365 ± 14 (D365) after their first stroke. Using clinical measures, upper limb motor function (Fugl-Meyer Assessment), capacity (Action Research Arm Test, Box & Block Test), and perceived performance (14-item Motor Activity Log) were assessed. Additionally, individuals wore five movement sensors (trunk, wrists, and ankles) for three days. Thirteen AU metrics were computed based on functional movements during non-walking periods. Construct validity across clinical measures and AU metrics was determined by Spearman’s rank correlations for each time point. Criterion responsiveness was examined by correlating patient-reported Global Rating of Perceived Change (GRPC) scores and observed change in upper limb measures and AU metrics. Optimal cut-off values for minimal important change (MIC) were estimated by ROC curve analysis.ResultsNinety-three individuals participated. At D3 and D10, correlations between clinical measures and AU metrics showed variability (range rs: 0.44–0.90). All following time points showed moderate-to-high positive correlations between clinical measures and affected AU metrics (range rs: 0.57–0.88). Unilateral nonaffected AU duration was negatively correlated with clinical measures (range rs: -0.48 to -0.77). Responsiveness across outcomes was highest between D10-D28 within moderate to strong relations between GRPC and clinical measures (rs: range 0.60–0.73), whereas relations were weaker for AU metrics (range rs: 0.28–0.43) Eight MIC values were estimated for clinical measures and nine for AU metrics, showing moderate to good accuracy (66–87%).ConclusionsWe present reference data on the construct validity and responsiveness of clinical upper limb measures and specified sensor-based AU metrics within the first year after stroke. The MIC values can be used as a benchmark for clinical stroke rehabilitation.Trial registrationThis trial was registered on clinicaltrials.gov; registration number NCT03522519.

Unraveling dolomite dissolution stoichiometry in circumneutral to alkaline pH environments

Abstract Examining carbonate dissolution kinetics at mineral-water interface is crucial to understand numerous environmental and geochemical processes, including global carbon cycling, CO2 sequestration in deep geological reservoirs, and trace elements release in terrestrial and aquatic environments. Here we explored the effect of circumneutral to alkaline pH solutions (pH 6–11) on dissolution kinetics of pure dolomite and Ca and Mg release stoichiometry in flow-through reactor experiments at 25 ± 1 °C. Results revealed that the dolomite dissolution rates obtained from effluent Ca and Mg concentrations (RCa and RMg in mol/cm2/s) were dependent on input solution pH and HCO3 − log activity. The pH dependence of dissolution rates showed two distinct trends, i.e., at circumneutral pH ranging between 6 and 8, the dissolution rate decreased with increasing pH, with minimum rate at pH 8. While in the highly alkaline pH range (pH 9–11), the dolomite dissolution rate increased with an increasing pH. Irrespective of the input pH, the dolomite dissolution rates indicated a reverse relationship with HCO3 − log activity, with the lowest dissolution rate (RCa = 3.80 × 10–12 mol/cm2/s) at pH 8 where HCO3 − log activity attained the highest value (− 3.957). The lower RCa and RMg obtained at pH 8 compared to all the other pH could possibly be attributed to an inhibition caused by high HCO3 − log activity in solution at this pH. Dolomite dissolution rates were non-stoichiometric at all the experimental pH values, showing higher preferential Ca over Mg release (RCa &gt; RMg) whereas an opposite trend was observed at pH 8, with RCa &lt; RMg at the steady state. Saturation index values calculated using geochemical speciation modelling were positive for Mg-bearing minerals (brucite, dolomite, artinite) at alkaline pH of 10–11, indicating favourable conditions for their precipitation under studied conditions. This study provides insights on the significance of log ion activities of HCO3 − and Me-OH+ under varying pH for elucidating the dissolution mechanism of dolomite in circumneutral to alkaline aqueous environments.

Silver single atoms and nanoparticles on floatable monolithic photocatalysts for synergistic solar water disinfection

Photocatalytic water disinfection technology is highly promising in off-grid areas due to abundant year-round solar irradiance. However, the practical use of powdered photocatalysts is impeded by limited recovery and inefficient inactivation of stress-resistant bacteria in oligotrophic surface water. Here we prepare a floatable monolithic photocatalyst with ZIF-8-NH2 loaded Ag single atoms and nanoparticles (AgSA+NP/ZIF). Atomically dispersed Ag sites form an Ag−N charge bridge, extending the lifetime of charge carriers and thereby promoting reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. The photothermal effect of the plasmonic Ag nanoparticles reduces the bacterial resistance to ROS and impairs DNA repair capabilities. Under sunlight irradiation, the synergistic effect of Ag single atoms and nanoparticles enables 4.0 cm2 AgSA+NP/ZIF to achieve over 6.0 log inactivation (99.9999%) for the stress-resistant Escherichia coli (E. coli) in oligotrophic surface water within 30 min. Furthermore, 36 cm2 AgSA+NP/ZIF is capable of disinfecting at least 10.0 L of surface water, which meets the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended daily per capita drinking water allocation (8.0 L). This study presents a decentralized and sustainable approach for water disinfection in off-grid areas.

Effects of a Distributed Form of Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy for Clinical Application: The Keys Treatment Protocol.

Currently, there are limited evidence-based protocols for improving upper extremity (UE) motor function after stroke. The Keys protocol, a distributed form of constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT), delivers CIMT components in fewer hours per day over an extended period, fitting outpatient rehabilitation schedules and third-party payor models. This pilot study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the Keys protocol in enhancing UE capacity and performance poststroke. Ten adults with chronic stroke (>6 months) participated in an 8-week intervention. The protocol included 22 supervised training sessions (1.5 h each): 4 days/week for 4 weeks, 2 days/week for weeks 5-6, and 1 day/week for weeks 7-8. Participants wore a restraint mitt on the less-affected UE during waking hours and used an adapted transfer package. Outcome measures included the Motor Activity Log (MAL), Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), Stroke Impact Scale (SIS), and Zung Depression Scale, assessed pre-treatment, mid-treatment (4 weeks), and posttreatment. Significant improvements were observed in SIS Strength, ADLs/IADLs, Mobility, and Hand Function domains, exceeding MCID thresholds. Memory and Communication domains improved significantly at the 3-month follow-up. WMFT performance times improved, with fewer incomplete tasks. MAL scores for Amount of Use and Quality of Movement increased across all time points. Depressive symptoms significantly decreased posttreatment. The Keys protocol effectively improves UE use, motor function, mood, and quality of life, with the greatest gains observed mid-intervention. These findings support its feasibility and potential for outpatient stroke rehabilitation (ClinicalTrials.gov Registration: NCT05311384).

CAMERA SYSTEM TO MONITOR RESIDENTIAL SOCIETIES VEHICLE ACTIVITIES

In the era of rapid urbanization, residential societies in India are increasingly confronted with pressing security issues, such as unauthorized vehicle parking and vehicle theft. These challenges underscore the need for efficient and automated solutions to ensure the safety and convenience of residents. Traditional manual methods for vehicle monitoring at society gates are often inefficient, error-prone, and unable to keep up with the demands of modern urban living. This project proposes an innovative and affordable system that integrates a mobile application with a camera-based monitoring solution powered by advanced image processing techniques. The system leverages License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology and real-time monitoring to automate vehicle identification and activity tracking at entry and exit points of residential societies. By ensuring that only authorized vehicles are permitted entry and maintaining a comprehensive log of all vehicle activities, the solution significantly enhances security and operational efficiency.

Analyzing Activity of Daily Living Data Utilizing Motor Activity Log Toward Quantitative Scoring System

Analyzing Activity of Daily Living Data Utilizing Motor Activity Log Toward Quantitative Scoring System

Effects of a Wearable-Based Intervention on the Hemiparetic Upper Limb in Persons With Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Introduction Wearables have emerged as a transformative rehabilitation tool to provide self-directed training in the home. Objective. In this study, we examined the efficacy of a novel wearable device, “Smart Reminder” (SR), to provide home-based telerehabilitation for hemiparetic upper limb (UL) training in persons with stroke. Methods Forty stroke survivors from community support groups were randomized (stratified by the period after stroke onset and impairment severity) to either the SR group or the sham device group. Participants received either 20 hours of telerehabilitation using the SR device or training with pictorial handouts and a sham device over 4 weeks. In addition, all participants wore a standard accelerometer for 3 hours each day, 5 times a week, outside the prescribed training. Participants were assessed by a masked assessor at baseline, post-intervention (week 4), and follow-up (week 8). The outcome measures included Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Upper Extremity (FMA-UE), Action Research Arm Test, Motor Activity Log, muscle strength, active range of motion and amount of movement of the UL, and compliance rate of training. Results The SR group improved substantially in their FMA-UE scores after treatment (mean difference = 2.05, P = .036) compared to the sham group. Also, adherence to the training using the SR device was significantly higher, 97%, than the sham group, 82.3% (P = .038). Conclusion The 4-week telerehabilitation program using a “SR” device demonstrated potential efficacy in improving FMA-UE scores of the hemiparetic upper limb. However, it did not significantly enhance the performance of the affected limb in daily activities. The trial was registered on ClinicalTrial.gov (URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov) with the identifier NCT05877183.

Preliminary effectiveness of social prescription and virtual patient information in increasing tertiary prevention among cancer patients (ESPRIT): protocol for a single-centre, randomised controlled pilot trial

IntroductionTertiary prevention through physical activity and psychosocial support can positively impact patient outcomes, such as physical function and quality of life (QoL). However, more research is required on the effectiveness...

SHEPHERD UNIVERSITY’S ROADMAP TO AGE-FRIENDLY UNIVERSITY DESIGNATION

Abstract Our AFU dedicated team first met in August, 2022 to discuss the process for becoming an Age-Friendly University. The AFU team consisted of a psychology department faculty member, the director of the university’s Lifelong Learning Program, and a local community member. Our first step was to map our university’s core values and current age-friendly inclusive activities onto the 10 Principles of an Age-Friendly University. This exercise provided evidence that many ongoing, university-engaging events highlighted four of the Age-Friendly principles. In October, 2022, the team met with our provost and proposed why Shepherd University should endorse the Age-Friendly initiative. Our provost agreed and signed our application letter in November, 2022. With the Age-Friendly University Global Network restructuring, it was a rather long wait for their response but we received our acceptance letter in August, 2023. We sent out press releases and were interviewed by a local columnist. Our first step as an AFU member was to create a six-person AFU Advisory Board with representation from Shepherd faculty, staff, and community members. We meet monthly and are currently working on a mission statement, by-laws, and S.W.O.T. analysis. We are also conducting information sessions for the university community to inform them about AFU and receive input on potential age-friendly activities. The board is keeping a log of activities undertaken as required by the AFU Global Network.