Multidimensional Benefits Research Articles

Umbrella review of systematic reviews of peer support in substance use settings

Purpose The purpose of this umbrella review is to synthesise existing evidence on the effectiveness and implementation of peer support in substance use settings, providing insights into its benefits, challenges and implications for practice and research. Design/methodology/approach The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses were used to guide an umbrella review. Three databases were searched: Academic Search Complete, Scopus and the Web of Science, supplemented with bibliography searches. Articles were included if they were peer reviewed in the English language from inception to 2024 and reported on peer support in substance use contexts. The Joanne Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Systematic Reviews and Research Syntheses was used to assess the quality of the included reviews. Findings are reported using a narrative synthesis. Findings The search yielded 4,062 articles, of which 8 systematic reviews were included, encompassing 177 (N = 177) primary studies with a combined sample size of 38,659 (N = 38,659) participants. Peer support in substance use settings was linked to improved outcomes, including reduced substance use severity, enhanced treatment engagement and better social supports. Challenges identified included inconsistent training, role definitions and organisational barriers, such as stigmatising attitudes and limited structural support. Most reviews used a narrative synthesis to report results, with no meta-analyses. Critical appraisal categorised the reviews as 25% high quality, 25% moderate quality, 25% low quality and 25% critically low quality. The findings further highlighted the need for clearer implementation strategies, standardised training and recovery-oriented care models to optimise peer support effectiveness. In addition, the role of the randomised control trial as a method for evaluating peer support is considered. Originality/value This umbrella review uniquely synthesises evidence from diverse systematic reviews on peer support in substance use settings, highlighting the multidimensional benefits and challenges while addressing critical gaps in implementation strategies and methodological approaches. It offers a novel perspective on optimising peer roles within recovery-oriented care models.

Effect of CrossFit Training on Cognition and Physiological Parameters According to the Competitive Level

This study investigates the acute effects of CrossFit training on cognition and physiological parameters across different performance stages. We focused on evaluating the impact of such training on both the mental and physical performance of athletes classified as Elite, Advanced, and Beginners. The objective was to explore how CrossFit, known for its high-intensity and varied functional movements, influences cognitive functions and physiological responses in athletes of varying expertise. By comparing these groups both before and after the Workout of the Day (WOD), we aimed to understand the relationship between CrossFit training intensity and cognitive and physiological changes. Methodologically, our approach involved categorizing our sample into three groups: Elite (n=7), Advanced (n=10), and Beginners (n=15). We conducted comprehensive assessments of each participant's cognitive and physiological parameters pre- and post-WOD. The results revealed notable differences in performance time, with Elite athletes showing significantly quicker times compared to Advanced and Beginners. Cognitive functions, particularly executive functions like reading, counting, choice-making, shifting, inhibition, and flexibility, also varied significantly across the groups. Physiological measurements, including lactate stages and heart rate, further highlighted these differences. Remarkably, Elite athletes exhibited a 13.1 mmol average lactate level, lower than their counterparts, and a higher average heart rate of 188.0 bpm. In terms of cognitive functions, differences were observed in various executive tasks, showcasing the nuanced impact of high-intensity exercise on cognitive abilities. In conclusion, our study provides compelling evidence that high-intensity CrossFit training positively influences executive functions. These findings are quantified through substantial variations in performance times, executive function tasks, lactate stages, and heart rates, offering critical insights into the multidimensional benefits of CrossFit training across different competitive stages.

Effectiveness of a nurse-led coaching in self-care intervention for elderly undergoing total laryngectomy: a randomised controlled trial

ObjectivesTo evaluate the effectiveness of nurse-led coaching in self-care (SC) interventions for elderly patients undergoing total laryngectomy (TL) using multidimensional parameters.DesignThis was a double-arm randomised, single-centre trial that met the...

Exploring the Traditional and Modern Medicine Insights of Bauhinia vahlii

Bauhinia vahlii is an excellent example of a climber plant that significantly maintains the ecological balance. It is abundant in India as well as the other parts of the world, especially the tropical regions. Throughout the ancient times, it has been extensively used for various purposes as cited in the numerous literatures for many applications. Different parts of the plant are known to possess certain phytochemicals possessing therapeutic properties such as antimicrobial and anti-tumor. The plant applications have reached to various other industries such as textile, aerospace, and marine. This present study is dedicated to evaluating and studying this plant potential toward mitigating health risks such as diabetes as an antidiabetic agent, fever, skin diseases, and diarrhea and promoting the production of antioxidants and tyrosinase inhibitory agents. Bauhinia has been used for ages by certain tribal communities due to its medicinal and anti-inflammatory properties. These multidimensional benefits associated with this plant have been critically examined and reviewed in this article. . KEYWORDS :Phytochemicals, Therapeutic properties, Antimicrobial, and Tyrosinase inhibition

The Importance of Arts in Continuous Professional Development in Health

This paper examines the integral role of arts in continuous professional development (CPD) for healthcare professionals. The incorporation of arts such as visual arts, music, drama, and dance—into healthcare settings offers multidimensional benefits that transcend conventional training. These benefits include enhanced communication skills, empathy, emotional resilience, and creativity. By fostering these qualities, arts-based CPD initiatives support healthcare professionals in adapting to complex, emotionally charged, and ethically nuanced situations they encounter in practice. Furthermore, case studies illustrate how the arts have positively impacted clinical outcomes and healthcare team cohesion, indicating the potential of arts as an innovative tool in CPD. The paper also addresses challenges, including funding constraints and resistance to integration, and outlines future directions for establishing a robust framework to incorporate the arts into health education. The findings advocate for a broader adoption of arts-based methodologies to nurture a resilient, compassionate, and holistic healthcare workforce. Keywords: Arts in Healthcare, Continuous Professional Development (CPD), Creativity in Medicine, Arts-based Training, Healthcare Professional Development.

A mixed method service evaluation of Electronic Prescribing and Medicines Administration (EPMA) within 10 community hospitals in England

Abstract Introduction Electronic Prescribing and Medicines Administration (EPMA) was implemented in 13 adult inpatient wards across 10 community hospitals within one NHS community trust in England, March 2023, replacing paper drug-charts. EPMA, integrates with patients’ electronic health records, includes prescribing, administration, closed-loop supply, discharge prescribing, electronic-tasking between clinicians and provides a medicines audit trail. Laptops enable remote access. Aim To evaluate EPMA against expected safety, quality and efficiencies benefits, assess clinicians’ acceptance of EPMA and impact on pharmacy practice compared to paper-drug charts. Methods Mixed methods1 evaluation conducted in November and December 2023. This evaluation included assessing twenty-six expected multi-dimensional benefits as being achieved, partially achieved or not achieved post-EPMA implementation based on quantitative and qualitative data. Online anonymous surveys were emailed to all eligible clinicians: prescribers, nurses and pharmacy staff working on 13 inpatient wards, containing closed and open questions, adapted according to clinical group for different aspects of EPMA including questions to assess clinicians’ acceptance of EPMA2. These data were analysed using descriptive statistics in Excel. Pharmacy staff working on the inpatient wards and the dispensary were invited to attend separate virtual focus groups for pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and dispensary staff, respectively. These were recorded and transcribed via Microsoft Teams. Eight pharmacists, six pharmacy technicians and five dispensary staff agreed to participate. A semi-structured interview guide was used covering EPMA’s impact on practice, communication, patient safety, benefits and challenges. Thematic-analysis3 of the focus group interviews were undertaken by IA. Themes were validated with pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, respectively. The NHS Health Research Authority decision tool confirmed this evaluation was not NHS Research therefore did not require NHS ethics review or approval. Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust approved this service evaluation. Results Of 26 expected multi-dimensional benefits post EPMA, 77% were achieved or partially achieved with 13% not achieved. Thirty-seven inpatient ward clinicians responded to the survey: eight prescribers, fifteen nurses, six pharmacists and eight pharmacy technicians. This showed clinicians underutilised some functionalities, although 100% felt confident using EPMA. Overall, 81% of clinicians stated medication safety had improved with EPMA, 16% felt it was the same and 3% felt it was worse, with 92% not wanting to return to paper drug-charts. Clinicians requested further prescribing developments. Thematic analysis identified four themes for pharmacists: maintaining visibility with prescribers, moving towards targeted interactions with prescribers but reducing opportunistic interactions, being increasingly available due to remotely accessing EPMA and improving patient safety through increased prescription checking; and three themes for pharmacy technicians: expanding role, improving workflow and enhancing communication with clinicians. The dispensary staff focus group emphasised that EPMA adversely impacted dispensary workflow. Discussion/Conclusion EPMA achieved some expected benefits. Clinicians have accepted EPMA, perceiving improved medication safety compared to paper-drug charts. Pharmacists are exploring ways of adapting their practice. Pharmacy technicians are enhancing their roles. Recommendations include EPMA system improvements, additional EPMA training, reviewing dispensary and pharmacists’ workflow. EPMA needs time to embed in practice. Limitations of the evaluation included no focus groups for prescribers and nurses, and limited baseline data pre-EPMA.

Multidimensional Benefits of a Tailored Exercise Program in Preventing Frailty: A Community-Based Approach.

Frailty is a significant health concern in the aging population, particularly in Japan's super-aging society. Community-based interventions show promise in frailty prevention; however, their effectiveness requires further investigation. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a continuous municipal rehabilitation program on frailty status and physical function in older adults living in suburban Japan. This prospective observational study included 52 participants aged ≥ 65 years (13 males and 39 females) who underwent assessments at baseline and after six months. Participants were divided into Pre-old (65-74 years) and Older (≥75 years) groups. Frailty was assessed using the Kihon checklist (KCL), and physical function was evaluated using the New Physical Fitness Test. Changes in frailty status, physical function, and KCL subcategories were analyzed. Frailty prevalence decreased significantly from baseline to 6 months (21.2% to 7.7%, p = 0.018). In the Pre-old group, significant improvements were observed in the sit-up (p = 0.035) and six-minute walking (p = 0.017) scores. The Older group showed significant improvements in KCL lifestyle (p = 0.023) and physical function (p = 0.018). Seven of ten initially frailty participants transitioned to a non-frailty status after 6 months. The Co-Creative Well-being System was associated with a reduction in frailty prevalence and improvements in physical function, with age-specific benefits observed. This community-based approach presents a promising strategy for addressing frailty in aging populations.

Adapting a cultural dance program to prevent cognitive decline: insights from experts and educators

Abstract Leveraging activities such as cultural dance shows promise as an effective basis for chronic disease prevention and management with at-risk populations. In fact, recent WHO reports and resolutions advocate utilizing cultural context to achieve health equality. Hula, the Native Hawaiian indigenous dance has been successfully utilized in interventions with statistically significant improvement in medication resistant hypertension management and heart disease prevention. In this study, Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia (ADRD) experts and kumu hula (hula experts and educators) provide insights to developing a hula-based lifestyle program for prevention of cognitive decline. Informant interviews were used to collect information for developing a hula-based program for individuals with mild cognitive impairment from 4 ADRD experts and clinicians, and 4 kumu hula. The 60-90 minute semi-structured interviews were conducted, recorded, then transcribed. Separate thematic analysis allowed distinct themes for each group to emerge. Themes with greatest between group alignment informed the adaptation of an existing hula-based chronic disease intervention. The clinical and cultural experts were unanimous on multiple themes. First, a hula-based program was well positioned to promote social functioning. Second, hula facilitated integrated multi-dimensional benefits including physical, cognitive, social, and cultural. Third, facilitating learning included: repetition done in creative forms; utilization of aids such as dance notation and audio recordings; and educational approaches such as project-based learning. Cultural activities such as dance have been underutilized in health promotion initiatives. A significant challenge in health promotion programs is engagement and retention of participants. Cultural dance programs are popular and can be effective interventions, particularly when both clinical and cultural experts are engaged in program development. Key messages • Inclusion of clinical and cultural experts in health promotion program development leads to unique collaboration and impactful insights. • ADRD clinicians and Hawaiian cultural dance educators identify social, cultural, physical, and cognitive benefits of hula as instrumental for individuals with mild cognitive impairment.

Ten questions concerning the role of urban greenery in shaping the future of urban areas

Strengthening sustainability starts with maintaining a balanced relationship between society, the environment, and the economy, and one of the pillars of doing this is increasing the amount of green infrastructure and expanding it in urban areas. Densely populated urban areas with fewer greenery are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including sea level rise, storm surge, heat waves, droughts, and changing diseases, and vulnerable populations in urban areas are likely to be disproportionately affected. In addition to providing multidimensional benefits to all ecosystems, urban greenery is influential in developing sustainable lifestyles and healthy eating habits, increasing individual well-being derived from the need for a sense of belonging and social inclusion, as well as reducing carbon footprint. As urban greenery is part of urban development but less attention is paid to it, the benefits of these areas should be further explored and highlighted. Thus, ten questions were raised concerning the contribution of urban greenery to the future of urban areas. The questions not only to address important issues related to urban greenery and to provide guidance for future studies, but also to offer new perspectives for future policies. The answers to the ten questions are based on the expertise of the authors to highlight the importance and the potential of urban greenery in shaping the future.

Two-stage multi-objective distributionally robust operation optimization and benefits equalization of an off-grid type electric-hydrogen-ammonia-methanol coupling system

As the proportion of renewable energy has increased significantly, electric-hydrogen coupling technology has emerged as a pivotal strategy for optimizing the utilization of renewable energy resources. In particular, within the power and chemical sectors, the preparation of ammonia and methanol using electric-hydrogen coupling technology has emerged as the two principal avenues for the utilization of hydrogen energy. However, as a nascent technology, the preparation of ammonia and methanol by electric-hydrogen coupling is confronted with a multitude of challenges, including the considerable uncertainty surrounding the generation of renewable energy, the dearth of economic benefits, and the need to ensure a fair allocation of benefits among the various stakeholders. To enhance the risk resistance of the electric-hydrogen-ammonia-methanol coupling system (EHAMCS), improve the economic benefits, ensure the environmentality and stability of the system, and realize the fair distribution of benefits among the energy participants, this paper constructs a multi-objective distributionally robust optimization (DRO) and multi-dimensional benefits equilibrium model for the EHAMCS and performs a numerical analysis with an off-grid type EHAMCS as an example. The results demonstrate that: 1) The cooperative operation of the EHAMCS offers notable economic advantages. When compared with only pursuing economic benefits, under multi-objective optimization, the economic benefits of the coupling system can be reduced by 1.49 %, but the carbon emission can be reduced by 10.06 %, and the instability is reduced by 0.02, which can create derivative benefits. 2) The two-stage DRO model is an effective means of addressing the impact of system operation uncertainty and the affine strategy enables the rapid adjustment of the day-ahead dispatching plan, thereby balancing the power deviation. 3) The multi-dimensional factor benefit balancing scheme is more conducive to the participation of clean energy and downstream ammonia and methanol energy subsystems in cooperative operation and promotes the consumption of clean energy while improving the energy conversion value of the EHAMCS to increase economic benefits. 4) EHAMCS operators should adjust their operational strategies in time with market and policy signals, and select historical samples reasonably, so as to realize the balance of the DRO model in terms of economy, robustness, and practicality. The effectiveness of the model and the superiority of the EHAMCS are thus verified.

Design for excellence (DfX) for high-rise modular buildings: from DfX considerations to module design guidelines using the case of Hong Kong

ABSTRACT Design for excellence (DfX) presents a significant opportunity for early design to ensure the efficiency and buildability of high-rise modular buildings and realize their multidimensional benefits. Previous DfX contributions have primarily concentrated on its conception, offering various considerations from downstream construction stakeholders. Little research has integrated and transformed them into more practical, ready-to-use guidelines for upstream design professionals. This research, therefore, aims to incorporate prevailing piecemeal DfX considerations and establish module design guidelines. The guidelines were initially developed based on prior literature and case study, and their alignment with existing practices was subsequently tested. They recommend 1) a simplified rectangular module shape, 2) suggested module size, 3) standardized space across projects, and 4) dimensional coordination among modules and spaces. By utilizing them to analyze 39 high-rise module designs in Hong Kong, the results reveal some similarities between the proposed guidelines and real-world practices, affirming their concurrent validity and creating warrant assertions. This research bridges the knowledge gap between upstream and downstream practitioners, offers transformed DfX knowledge to systematically guide future implementations, and finally explains changes in architectural design. Future studies are advised to fine-tune the guidelines and incorporate findings with computational technologies to enhance generative DfX.

How multidimensional benefits determine cumulative satisfaction and eWOM engagement on mobile social media: Reconciling motivation and expectation disconfirmation perspectives

With the ceaseless flourishing of network information technologies, mobile social media have recently gained tremendous popularity and infiltrated people’s quotidian digitized lives in mainland China. Leveraging motivation theory and expectation disconfirmation approach, the principle aim of the current study is to systematically examine the dynamic influences from multidimensional perceived benefits (functional benefits, psychosocial benefits, and hedonic benefits) on WeChat users’ cumulative satisfaction, as well as to comprehensively evaluate the impact stemming from cumulative satisfaction alongside their stickiness on electronic word-of-mouth engagement (eWOM). Data were gathered utilizing an online survey from 689 active WeChat users in mainland China, and subsequently analyzed employing structure equation modeling. The pivotal findings demonstrate that functional benefits, psychosocial benefits, and hedonic benefits positively influence WeChat users’ cumulative satisfaction. Additionally, the empirical investigation discovers that WeChat users’ cumulative satisfaction and their stickiness significantly affect eWOM engagement. Additionally, the mediating role of stickiness between cumulative satisfaction and eWOM is identified. These obtained results illuminate and provide novel evidence on how mobile social media could drive users and heighten their cumulative satisfaction and stickiness which consequently would propel users’ engagement in making comments on specific products or services in contemporary mobile-saturated environments.

Moving forward from escaping the poverty trap in China's greenest regions: Examining four decades of socioecological evolution to re-orient sustainable development policies

Afforestation is an important aspect of ecosystem restoration (ER) and poverty alleviation (PA) through direct and indirect social, economic, and environmental effects. However, the existing afforestation projects worldwide have mainly viewed economic benefits through the narrow lens of subsistence and livelihood, thereby underestimating both indirect PA and the associated negative effects on agricultural production when formulating long-term solutions to global poverty. This study aimed to systematically examine the ecological, agricultural, and economic effects of ecosystem restoration in southeastern China over four decades based on biophysical models and statistical records, and further proposed an upgraded strategy for sustainable PA through ER that addresses conservation objectives and resource needs. We found that ER promoted vegetation growth and enhanced carbon sequestration and soil retention. Meanwhile, industrial transformation improved the economic scale and livelihood diversity (i.e., disposable income), which alleviated poverty and improved social services and infrastructure conditions. Nevertheless, the secondary and tertiary industries gradually replaced the primary industry in terms of output, and increased animal husbandry and forestry development weakened crop planting. Planting structure adjustments further threatened the stability of the grain supply, particularly after 1999, which could potentially lead to a grain crisis. Therefore, we propose upgraded forest management and coordinated development policies to avoid a grain crisis, improve livelihood diversity, balance multidimensional benefits, and facilitate sustainable development. Study results serve as a valuable reference for policy formulation and ER measures for more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable PA.

A novel intercooling carbon dioxide capture process using ionic liquids with ultra-low energy consumption

This study focuses on the use of ionic liquids as solvents for carbon dioxide capture due to their low energy demand. We screened an ideal ionic liquid, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis[trifluoromethylsulfonyl]imide ([emim][Tf2N]), based on its excellent absorption capacity and low viscosity. We performed thermodynamic modeling of the gas-liquid phase equilibrium to lay the foundation for process simulation. A basic process was designed for benchmarking performance, and various cases were compared by adjusting key operating parameters such as pressure and temperature. The results showed that the lowest specific capture energy achieved was 1.12 GJ/t at 20 bar and 5 °C. However, further improvements in energy performance were constrained by reduced absorption capacity and increased viscosity resulting from lower operating pressures and temperatures. To address these constraints, we proposed a novel process that optimized the temperature profile in the absorption column by dividing it into two sections with intercooling. This approach did not require significant changes to the base case but offered multidimensional benefits, including reduced energy demand and associated equipment costs. The specific capture energy was further reduced to 1.04 GJ/t. Economic analysis indicated that the capture cost at a production scale of 13.7 kt/a was 206 $/t but had the potential to be reduced to 82 $/t. The costs associated with compressors were found to be the major contributors to both equipment and capture costs. The proposed novel process demonstrates promising benefits and highlights the importance of further investigation into low-pressure operation.

Exploring insect-based food consumption experiences and their consequences in a mature entomophagous community

PurposeTo generate the measurement instrument seven steps were implemented. A total of 819 questionnaires were collected in Yunnan Province, China, where it has long tradition of eating insects.Design/methodology/approachThis study aims to explore the influences of the multidimensional benefits of consuming insect-based food on its consequences. Food neophilia and hedonic motivation are used as moderating variables.FindingsHealth, nutritional value, taste and cultural domains effectively explained consumers’ attitudes toward insect-based food, food consumption value, satisfaction, subjective well-being, loyalty to the restaurant and community attachment. Food neophilia and hedonic motivation partially moderated the relationships between the proposed constructs.Research limitations/implicationsThis study provides a conceptual model for exploring insect-based food consumption experiences and offers a useful guideline for developing and designing marketing strategies for stakeholders in the food and restaurant industry.Originality/valueThis is one of the few studies examining the benefits of consuming insect-based food from the perspective of consumers.

Students' Cognition of Art Education and Its Impact on Personal Growth in Selected Schools of China: Towards Integrating Critical Thinking into Artistic Practices

This study investigates Chinese middle school students' perceptions of art education and its influence on personal growth and development. A sample of 450 students from Zhejiang Province middle schools completed a survey assessing perceived impacts of arts engagement. Results revealed students rated the greatest enhancement in creativity, followed by imagination and general knowledge. Females reported higher creativity gains than males. Ninth graders perceived greater knowledge growth compared to seventh graders. Students valued affective development most strongly, followed by behavioral then cognitive impacts. Perceived intrapersonal growth positively correlated with broader personal gains. Flow experiences during arts activities associated with higher ratings across all domains. Overall, findings substantiate multidimensional benefits of arts immersion for holistic cultivation aligned with China's curriculum reform goals. However, gaps persist in equitable access and tailored programming. Recommendations include expanded teacher training, needs-based funding formulas, student-centered adaptation, gender-inclusive pedagogies, leveraging community resources, balanced assessment systems, and communicating advocacy evidence to promote supportive policies and environments ensuring high-quality arts education reaches all Chinese youth. This study elucidates students’ perceptions validating arts engagement as a pathway towards national cultural prosperity and innovation.

Smart Grid Monitoring: Enhancing Reliability and Efficiency in Energy Distribution

Smart grid has been replaced with traditional electrical power grid with its various technologies. In today’s world it has emerged in as solution of increasing demand. This technology has changed the way electricity is produced, transferred, and consumed. This technology benefits in advanced monitoring systems to improve the reliability and efficiency of energy distribution. This abstract provides an overview of smart grid monitoring, highlighting its key components, benefits, and challenges. Smart grid monitoring comprises of different technologies and techniques. Information communication technology helps the grid in collection of data from various consumers. These technologies involve advanced sensors, Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), data analytics. It has multidimensional benefits. It enhances grid reliability by enabling rapid detection and response to the faults. It provides consumers with detailed information about their energy usage, adapting more awaking consumption habits. This contributes to the overall reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact. In conclusion, it represents a crucial advancement in the energy sector, transforming the traditional grid into an intelligent grid. The continued development and deployment of smart grid monitoring technologies promise a brighter and more sustainable energy future.

A Descriptive Analysis of Audience Engagement by Nigerian Journalists

ABSTRACT There is a renewed interest in how journalists engage with their audience because of the multi-dimensional benefits such interaction holds for the news media. The current study, therefore, examined how Nigerian journalists conducted audience engagement. The study surveyed 308 journalists in Nigeria. Data gathered were analysed using frequency and percentage, mean and standard deviation as well as regression analysis. The study found that journalists’ role conception accounted for the highest variation (29.4%) in production-oriented audience engagement behaviour of journalists. This was followed by control variables accounting for 13.5% of the variance in production-oriented audience engagement. On the other hand, control variables had the highest influence on the reception-oriented audience engagement behaviour (29.5%) whereas attitude towards audience engagement behaviour had no significant influence on the reception-oriented audience engagement behaviour. Gender was found to have no significant influence on both production and reception-oriented audience engagement behaviour. The implications of the finding for Nigerian journalism were discussed.

P1101 Patient-reported physical activity of IBD patients is of concern when weighed with the international physical activity questionnaire regardless of disease activity and IBD phenotype: barriers and facilitators emerged from the extended "BE-FIT-IBD" cross-sectional study

Abstract Background As the World Health Organization recommends, regular physical activity (PA) determines quality of life. The qualitative/quantitative characteristics of ideal PA to be suggested for inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) nor the relationship with disease activity are not yet well defined. This study aimed to weigh PA levels and barriers/facilitators to PA in a cross-sectional group of patients with IBD. Methods Consecutive Italian non-severe IBD patients (assessed with partial Mayo score for and Harvey-Bradshaw index) received an anonymous online questionnaire to assess PA levels using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), disease activity as Patient-Reported Outcomes 2 (PRO-2), and finally habits, beliefs, and barriers in conducting regular PA. Clinical, anthropometric, and demographic data were also collected. PA was processed as continuous units of resting metabolic rate in minutes/week (Met min/wk). Three PA groups were identified: inactive (< 700 Met min/wk), sufficiently active (700-2500 Met min/wk) and Health Enhancing PA (i.e., HEPA active, > 2500 Met min/wk) patients. Results The 219 patients enrolled exhibited overall PA levels of 834.5 Met min/wk, with a large proportion (94, 42.9%) classified as inactive. Only a minority (9, 4.1%) resulted as health-enhancing PA. Patients with a non-dyslipidaemia metabolic profile (p < 0.0001) or on biologics therapy (p=0.022) showed better IPAQ scores in moderate activities. PRO-2 correlated negatively with IPAQ intense activities scores (τ= -0.156, p=0.038) in ulcerative colitis patients. PRO-2 did not show notable sensitivity/specificity in predicting IPAQ inactivity (AUC < 0.6). IPAQ showed no notable differences when related to disease activity categories according to PRO-2 (p > 0.05). Physically active patients were more willing to discuss their PA with their IBDologists. Several barriers (e.g., diagnosis of IBD and fear of flare-ups after PA) are firmly rooted in physically inactive patients. Evacuation urgency (rectal syndrome) is the IBD-related barrier most physically inactive patients reported. Some fears about PA were worse felt in the absence of a stable partner (i.e., fear of worsening or recurrence of IBD, p < 0.05). Conclusion Many Italian IBD patients show a worrying rate of physical inactivity, depriving themselves of the multidimensional benefits that regular PA can bring. There is a need for IBDologists to act by removing barriers to PA and engaging in a regular discussion on the importance of PA with IBD patients. IPAQ has shown good feasibility and patient acceptance in this setting.

СТАЛИЙ РОЗВИТОК В ЦИФРОВІЙ ЕКОНОМІЦІ: СТРАТЕГІЇ, ВИКЛИКИ ТА ІНДИКАТОРИ РОЗВИТКУ «РОЗУМНИХ» МІСТ

The article delves into the intricate relationship between digital transformation and sustainable development within the context of modern cities, highlighting the pivotal role digitalization plays in enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of urban environments. It outlines how the integration of digital technologies in city planning and management leads to the emergence of "smart cities," which leverage data and technology to improve public services, reduce environmental impact, and enhance the quality of life for their inhabitants. The discussion begins by defining the concept of sustainable development and its relevance to urban areas, emphasizing the necessity for cities to adopt sustainable practices to address the challenges posed by rapid urbanization and environmental degradation. The article then shifts focus to the digital economy, explaining how it acts as a catalyst for innovation and efficiency in various sectors, including transportation, energy, waste management, and public services. Furthermore, the article explores the indicators of effectiveness for sustainable development in the context of digital transformation, proposing a framework for evaluating the progress of cities towards sustainability goals. These indicators not only measure environmental impact but also assess social inclusion, economic growth, and the digital literacy of the population, underscoring the multidimensional benefits of digital technologies in fostering a more inclusive, efficient, and sustainable urban future. In addition to theoretical insights, the article provides case studies of cities that have successfully implemented digital solutions to enhance sustainability. These examples illustrate the practical application of digital technologies in urban planning and highlight the tangible benefits of such initiatives, including reduced carbon emissions, improved energy efficiency, and enhanced citizen engagement. The conclusion reiterates the importance of digital transformation in achieving sustainable development goals, calling for a collaborative effort among policymakers, technology providers, and the community to harness the potential of digital technologies for the betterment of urban environments. It underscores the need for strategic planning and investment in digital infrastructure as essential components of sustainable city development. This extended abstract presents a comprehensive overview of the article's content, underlining the synergistic relationship between digital transformation and sustainable development in the urban context. It emphasizes the role of digital technologies in creating efficient, inclusive, and environmentally friendly cities, thereby contributing to the broader goals of sustainable development.