Regular Engagement Research Articles

Developing graduate attributes through the application of coaching theory

Graduate attributes (GAs) have been formally adopted by higher education institutions for some time and describe the skills and competences that students should develop over the course of their studies. GAs are considered to be important to universities as they act as a means to represent and extend their brand, while also providing a channel to maintain connection with industry. However, despite regular engagement with industry, employers remain unsatisfied with graduate transferable skills. This may be caused by a lack of a common theoretical underpinning to develop such attributes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to provide an evidence-based methodology which develops transferable skills in university graduates. Two classes at a public university in Hong Kong were used in this study. One class received a 12-week intervention incorporating a variety of coaching activities. The second class acted as a control group. Students were asked to complete pre-intervention surveys which provided self-reports of current ratings in GAs and resourcefulness behaviours. After completion of the 12-week intervention, students were asked to complete post-intervention surveys, again reporting self-ratings on the same topics. Survey data was analysed to identify changes in student scores, which highlighted improvements in all graduate attribute ratings post-intervention. Furthermore, help-seeking behaviours were shown to have significant improvement post intervention. The findings of this study suggest that coaching practices may provide an efficient and effective way to develop transferable skills in students, and this paper provides discussion on the implications of these results.

The role of football video games in boosting cognitive abilities critical to football performance

Background and Aim: Football requires rapid decision-making and quick reaction times, crucial cognitive abilities that traditionally develop through physical training. This study explores whether football video games, which simulate real game scenarios, can enhance these cognitive abilities among college-level male football players. Materials and Methods: The study involved 51 football players from SRM Group of Institutions, divided into three groups: regular video game players (Group A), occasional players (Group B), and non-players (Group C). A mixed-methods approach was used, combining quantitative cognitive abilities tests (decision-making, reaction time, situational awareness). The video game used in the study was eFootball 2024 with participants engaging in gameplay over a period of 6 weeks. Tests were conducted before and after a set period of video game engagement. Data were analyzed using mixed-design ANOVA and Pearson’s correlation. Results: Significant improvements were observed in Group A across all cognitive abilities tested. Decision-making showed notable group and time effects (F (2, 48) = 5.76, p = 0.005, η² = 0.17; F (1, 48) = 12.54, p < 0.001, η² = 0.25), with interaction effects indicating substantial enhancements over time (F (2, 48) = 3.45, p = 0.035, η² = 0.08). Reaction time and situational awareness followed similar patterns, with significant group, time, and interaction effects. Correlation analysis revealed strong interrelations between the cognitive abilities, indicating that improvements in one area positively influenced others. Conclusion: Regular engagement with football video games significantly enhances cognitive abilities essential for football performance. These findings suggest that integrating video games into training programs could complement traditional methods, offering a valuable tool for cognitive development in sports.

Women Leading in the Third space

As Third Space educators, we work at the "interface between professional and academic activity" (Whitchurch, 2013, p. 55). Career progression in the Third Space is less defined and structured compared to traditional academic progression. This lack of structure and definition, paired with women being more likely to move into Third Space roles, contributes to women being underrepresented in senior leadership roles in university settings (Denney, 2021). Being in this less understood space may also result in feelings of isolation and disconnect, particularly with the rise of remote work. This adds to the difficulties of staying abreast of the complexity of higher education, continuous evolution of technologies (generative AI), and diverse student needs. These factors demand that practitioners continually update their expertise and career profiles. LinkedIn is a platform for professional networking, collaborative learning space for career development, and supports over one billion users with features such as LinkedIn Learning, versatile profiles, and AI-driven career advice (LinkedIn, 2024). For Third Space professionals, it provides valuable opportunities to network, share achievements, and build personal and professional brands (Loganathan, 2023; Rycraft, 2018). A LinkedIn profile is a valuable job seeking tool and requires meaningful interaction and engagement. Challenges in using this platform include experiencing anxiety and imposter syndrome, resulting from comparisons with others (Marder et al, 2023). Women are less likely to leverage LinkedIn for promoting themselves, for example under utilising the summary field (Altenburger et al, 2017). Therefore, our team, focused on leveraging this platform to address these challenges to support the growth and leadership of women in the Third Space. This poster presents an interactive autoethnographic study as described by Chang (2008), to engage in self-reflective practice and connections, to examine how LinkedIn can enhance our professional identities as women in leadership roles within higher education and the Third Space. Conducted as part of the ASCILITE Community Mentoring Program for Women in Professional Leadership, we aim to support each other in career progression, reflective practice, and cross-university connections. Our approach was informed by Wenger’s (1998) communities of practice theory, which underscores the role of professional networks in fostering learning and growth, and the conceptual frameworks for Professional Identity (Bulei & Dinu, 2013) and Third Space capabilities (Henry & Boreland, 2024). This study involved self-assessment of LinkedIn profiles, best practices, and refining our approaches based on internal reflections and community feedback. Our initial findings indicate that regular engagement, thoughtful content curation, and active participation in professional groups significantly enhance visibility and networking. Well-developed LinkedIn profiles are personable and linked to ePortfolios. Mentorship and community support are vital in shaping strategies, fostering solidarity and collective growth. Our poster will present a conceptual framework for optimising LinkedIn to build professional identities for women in leadership within the Third Space. We aim to provide valuable insights for aspiring women leaders, helping them navigate the evolving educational landscape and build supportive professional communities.

Evaluation of Self-vision Assessment Charts in Schools of Eastern Nepal: A Multi Method Study

Introduction: Globally, over two billion people suffer from vision impairment, almost half preventable. In Nepal, the Eastern Regional Eye Care Program introduced self-vision assessment charts in 137 schools for early eye issue detection. This study assessed the charts' use and perceived impact.Methods: A multi-method study was conducted to evaluate the use of self-vision assessment charts in schools in Eastern Nepal. Ethical approval was obtained from Institutional Review Board (Refrence number: 72-079-040). Quantitative data were collected through a questionnaire survey. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed using framework analysis. Both methods were integrated to enhance understanding of participants' experiences.Results: In this study, 400 students participated in questionnaire survey, 180 in self vision assessment, and 16 teachers in in-depth interviews. Among the participants, 198 (49.50%) of students used the chart, 125 (65.78%) expressed satisfaction, 241 (60.25%) found it useful, 276 (69%) as beneficial, and 253 (63.25%) stated improved health. There were 93 (23.25%) students who felt knowledgeable about its use, with 18 (10%) using it correctly. In 162 (90%) of schools there were adequate chart placement, 23 (12.77%) provided clear signage for viewing points. Teachers recognized the chart's benefits and encouraged its use, but students lacked awareness. Regular use was viewed as beneficial for early detection of eye issues, though challenges included a need for more awareness among students and teachers and reliance on home remedies.Conclusions: Most students and teachers acknowledged self-vision assessment charts’ benefits but had low utilization and accuracy rates. Strategic interventions such as regular informational sessions, teacher motivation, and engagement with eye health experts are essential.

A mindfulness-based intervention for Substance Use Disorder in a Brazilian vulnerable population: a feasibility mixed method study.

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a chronic condition that impacts various facets of an individual's life, and society as a whole. The Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP) protocol is an innovative intervention that can help to prevent relapse, particularly when used as a post-treatment approach. However, although there is significant evidence of its effectiveness in studies from high-income countries (HICs), there is a dearth of studies examining its feasibility and efficacy in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Thus, this study investigates the feasibility of MBRP as an adjunct to outpatient treatment for SUD in a socially vulnerable Brazilian population. The study employed a mixed-methods design in eight Psychosocial Care Centers for Alcohol and Drugs (CAPS-ad) in the city of São Paulo, and involved 140 participants, 24 healthcare professionals and 7 CAPS-ad managers. In total, 17 MBRP intervention groups were conducted. The study assessed qualitative indicators of acceptability, demand, implementation, adaptation, integration, and limited efficacy testing through group interviews, in-depth interviews and field diary records. It also included limited efficacy testing of the protocol using a quantitative pre-post pilot study to investigate consumption behavior, using the Timeline Followback (TLFB) assessment method; depression, using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) scale; anxiety, using the state trait anxiety index (STAXI-2); craving, using the Penn Alcohol Craving Scale (PACS); readiness to change, using the Readiness-to-Change Ruler (RCR); and severity of dependence, using the Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS). The qualitative data were triangulated with the quantitative data to comprehensively evaluate the feasibility of the intervention. The sample comprised socially vulnerable participants with a high dropout rate, primarily due to social factors. Despite facing challenges in respect of regular engagement and initial cultural misperceptions of meditation, the intervention showed positive acceptance and mental health benefits, including impacts on consumption behavior. The study emphasizes the importance of adapting the format of the protocol to better suit vulnerable populations, and to ensure its effective integration into the public healthcare system. Future research should explore protocol modifications, assess its effectiveness in different contexts, and conduct cost-benefit analyses for broader implementation.

Unifying Community Efforts on Registration and Data Rights

At the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History (SI NMNH), the Assistant Registrar and Informatics Manager in the Department of Paleobiology (Paleo) have identified key linkages between registering collections (documentation for specimens and data through acquisitions, loans and disposals) and management of digitized collections, especially for usage right designation. Both roles require extensive collaboration on a shared framework for managing data related to the provenance of fossil specimens and rights associated with any derivative digital assets. This eliminated a disconnect in overlapping responsibilities: those typically siloed in museum registration practices (e.g., provenance data, intellectual property rights) and the data typically siloed in collections management and digitization workflows (e.g., data quality, digital asset management, and usage rights). Paleo shifted to a new practical approach and mindset focused on communal thinking. This propelled implementation of data standard practices and laid the building blocks for a shared community perspective on digitizing paleontological collections. Since 2020, Paleo established processing workflows for digital asset requests of the fossil collections (new digital asset creations vs. use of existing digital assets) and baseline understandings about rights of digital assets. These products led to a comprehensive effort to outline SI NMNH’s options to designate usage rights for digital assets (Table 1) and distribute basic understandings about Smithsonian Terms of Use and Smithsonian Open Access Policy (SI OA) across SI NMNH. Paleo explored this topic further by engaging in virtual meetings, conferences, presentations and informal discussions with the collections management staff and data managers across SI NMNH and externally with domestic and international groups such as the Paleo Data Working Group (PDWG), Society for the Preservation of Natural History Collections (SPNHC) Registrars Group, and Biodiversity Information Standards (TDWG), to develop data standards initiatives for loans, permits and sensitive data (Fig. 1). Through regular community engagement, Paleo forged a concise, yet evolving, perspective on digitizing collections, which aligned both registration and informatics data management needs within the department and museum (Fig. 2). This multi-professional perspective enables the promotion of shared community knowledge and understanding about data rights. The primary purpose is to balance consistent goals, current needs, and long-term outcomes with the flexibility to adapt our practices based on institution-specific policies, new research methods, and varying domestic and international regulations and laws. The notable outcomes from almost four years of work are highlighted and incorporated into Paleo's departmental policy and documentation requirements for processing and fulfilling digital asset creation or use requests workflows and distribution of this information to the public website for visitors and borrowers. However, there are still persisting challenges related to registering and managing these digital assets. There are immediate and future obstacles such as: limitations in effective tracking methods to record creation of digital assets, use of digital assets, and designation of what usage rights and when the decision was made; gaps in community practice, policy and regulations at the institutional level and globally; past practices in workflows and staff structures or lack thereof, which have left digital assets in limbo without means of accessing the data or documentation to identify the appropriate use options and rights. We see a need to continue asking questions. How are varying policies across institutions globally, impacting compliance concerns in registration for sharing sensitive information with other research institutions? How have or will new research techniques and opportunities impact the need for flexibility in practices and decisions? Are there alternative ways to utilize a Collections Management Systems (CMS) or use other platforms to track, store and manage the digital assets? How have others engaged in community discussions to address overlapping needs for data standards and registration of digitized collections? These identify significant inconsistencies across the community that need further discussion with subject-matter experts before effective and comprehensive decisions in data standards for managing digitized collections can be made. Ultimately, there are outstanding questions and challenges at all stages for registering, digitizing and managing digital assets of natural history collections. We continue to unveil nuances in thinking about this topic and find the need for structures of shared knowledge built and actively engaged in by a professionally diverse community. The utilization of subject-matter experts encourages collaboration and alternative perspectives to standardize operations and policy while expanding community efforts and awareness.

Parent and adolescent perceptions of parent–child developmental relationships: The role of family routines

AbstractObjectiveThis study examined family routines in relation to the strength of parent–child developmental relationships and discordant perceptions among parents and their adolescent children.BackgroundPositive parent–child relationships and regular engagement in family routines are known to create a positive environment in which adolescents can thrive. Yet both parents and their children hold unique perspectives on family structure and functioning. Agreement between parent and child reports tend to be low and often become increasingly discrepant during adolescence. Engaging in consistent and predictable family routines may not only strengthen parent–child relationships but also result in more concordant perceptions of the quality of their shared relationship.MethodUsing data from 633 matched parents and their children, we examined the association between engagement in family routines and the strength of parent–adolescent relationships including discrepant reports using a latent congruence model.ResultsFamily routines were positively associated with stronger parent–adolescent relationships and less discrepant reports of this critical relationship.ConclusionEngagement in family routines plays an important role in parent–adolescent developmental relationships.ImplicationsFindings have important implications for practices and research focused on improving adolescent outcomes through family structures and parent–child relationships.

Physiological characteristics of blood pressure responses after combined exercise in elderly hypertensive patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

The aim of this investigation is to explore the efficacy of combined exercise in elderly patients with hypertension. Moreover, we aim to delve into the underlying mechanisms governing blood pressure regulation, with the objective of promoting the adoption of this exercise regimen among elderly hypertensive individuals. In our study, we conducted a thorough search across multiple databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Scopus. This extensive search resulted in the preliminary screening of 2,347 articles. Among these, 9 studies were carefully selected for an in-depth analysis. For our meta-analysis, we employed Review Manager 5.3 and Stata 15.0, enabling us to perform detailed subgroup analyses and assess the possibility of publication bias. In comparison to the control group (n = 194), individuals enrolled in the combined exercise group (n = 200) exhibited a notable decrease in both resting systolic blood pressure (SBP) [weighted mean difference (WMD) = -11.17 mm Hg, 95% confidence interval (CI) (-17.13, -5.22), Z = 3.68, P < 0.05] and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) [WMD = -5.93 mm Hg, 95% CI (-9.24, -2.61), Z = 3.51, P < 0.05]. Nonetheless, no statistically significant alteration was observed in pulse pressure (PP) [WMD = -9.05 mm Hg, 95% CI (-22.65, 4.55), Z = 1.3, P = 0.192]. Further subgroup analyses elucidated that combined exercise regimens, characterized by aerobic training intensities below 85% of HRmax, durations of up to 12 weeks, weekly frequencies of either ≥3 or <3 sessions, total session times under 60 min, and a sequence of aerobic exercise followed by resistance training (AE-RT), were particularly effective in enhancing SBP and DBP among elderly patients with hypertension. Additionally, regular engagement in combined exercise led to significant improvements in SBP and DBP across individuals aged 60-70, those older than 70 years, and regardless of whether participants were using antihypertensive medications or not. Combined exercise serves as an efficacious adjunctive therapy for reducing blood pressure among elderly individuals with hypertension, exerting beneficial influences on multiple physiological mechanisms pertinent to blood pressure regulation. Moreover, the integration of aerobic exercise with resistance training presents a more varied training program, thereby eliciting wider-ranging positive effects on both the physical and mental well-being of elderly patients afflicted with hypertension.

Physical Activity Regulates and Mediates the Signaling Pathway and Pathophysiological Mechanisms of the Neuroinflammation and Neurodegenerative

Context: The correlation between neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative disorders has been extensively documented. Elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines in the bloodstream have been demonstrated to impair memory function and heighten susceptibility to neurodegenerative disorders. Furthermore, elevated quantities of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the body, known as oxidative stress, exacerbate neurodegenerative illnesses and negatively affect learning and memory. Neuroprotection prevents neuronal cell death by intervening and blocking the pathogenetic process that leads to cellular malfunction and death. Methods: We evaluated several studies in the WEB of SCIENCE, SCOPUS, and PubMed. Furthermore, we identified the central genes and signaling pathways associated with neurogenesis, the neural system, and neuroplasticity through data mining, a literature review of artificial intelligence, and an in-silico study. Results: Physical exercise (PE) benefits various physiological systems, including the central nervous system. The beneficial impacts of physical activity on cognitive performance, neural well-being, and safeguarding neurons against different brain injuries are extensively documented. Furthermore, research has demonstrated that PE is a powerful non-pharmacological intervention that enhances cognitive function, including learning and memory, while decreasing the likelihood of developing neurodegenerative disorders. Additionally, engaging in moderate physical activity that does not result in extreme fatigue has a beneficial impact on reducing inflammation and promoting antioxidant effects. According to the hormesis theory, physical inactivity and extreme overtraining can decrease physiological function. Conclusions: In summary, a combination of moderate aerobic exercise, HIIT, and resistance training, performed at appropriate intensities, is most beneficial for neuroprotection and cognitive health. Regular engagement in these activities can help mitigate the risk of neurodegenerative diseases and enhance overall brain function.

Older Adults’ Perceptions, Experiences, and Preferences of a Gamified Cognitive Training Program

With cognitive plasticity being a “sluggish” process, regular long-term engagement in interventions like cognitive training is required to realize the potential that such interventions may confer for cognitive enhancement. A significant challenge associated with extended cognitive training studies is poor adherence and attrition. The current qualitative investigation therefore explored 66 older adult participants’ experiences of, and motivations during, a gamified cognitive training program to understand reasons for (non)adherence. Preferences regarding cognitive training were also explored to provide insight into how such programs might be designed and implemented to maximize motivation and long-term engagement. Using a qualitative description design drawing upon thematic analysis, findings revealed that participants were generally motivated by challenge, novelty, and opportunity to focus. In contrast, repetition, external factors, and negative mindsets detracted from the motivation of participants. Suggestions to improve cognitive training programs to promote long-term engagement included the addition of a large selection of games, an incentive system, mini daily challenges, reminder notifications, and social features. These findings may inform the design of cognitive training programs that accommodate the preferences and needs of older adults, which in turn, may promote adherence and improve intervention effectiveness.

Renal satellite units in Pakistan: Challenges, efforts, and recommendations.

This commentary delves into the complexities surrounding chronic kidney disease management in Pakistan, specifically examining the critical role played by renal satellite units in providing accessible dialysis services. Chronic kidney disease in Pakistan accounts for 3.9% of total deaths, warranting a focused exploration of challenges and potential solutions. RSUs, smaller entities affiliated with main renal units, emerge as key players in addressing issues of geographic accessibility and diminishing travel burdens for chronic kidney disease patients. Challenges such as financial constraints, limited resources, and staff shortages, particularly in rural settings, pose significant hurdles to the effective functioning of RSUs. This commentary emphasizes the importance of clear eligibility criteria, robust vascular access support, regular physician engagement, and the strategic integration of telemedicine. It explores diverse funding models, including government allocations, community contributions, and philanthropic partnerships, as potential solutions to alleviate cost-related concerns. The commentary advocates for a holistic, cost-effective approach to chronic kidney disease care, highlighting the transformative potential of renal satellite units in improving health outcomes across varied settings.

Determinants of teenage pregnancy and knowledge about contraception, sexually transmitted diseases among pregnant women: A case-control study in Eastern India

ABSTRACT Context: Each year, about 21 million girls aged 15–19 in developing regions experience pregnancy, posing significant challenges for their health, well-being, and economic stability due to its vast impact. Aim: To identify the risk factors contributing to teenage pregnancy as compared to Pregnancy in pregnant women in the rural area of the Khordha district with the assessment of their knowledge and, health-seeking behaviour (Contraception and STDs) among teenage and adult pregnant women in the study area. Settings and Design: Hospital-based case-control study conducted at Bhubaneswar’s Community Health Centre. Material and Methods: The study, conducted from April to July 2022, recruited 138 participants using consecutive sampling and interviewed them using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire. Statistical Analysis: Chi-square and logistic regression assessed association and strength. Results: Factors contributing to teenage pregnancy include education below high school (AOR = 2.46; 95%CI 0.89–6.79), SC and ST caste (AOR = 2.34; 95%CI 0.94–5.82), having more than three siblings (AOR = 4.45; 95%CI 1.53–12.96), and lack of communication about sexual issues (AOR = 2.84; 95%CI 1.25–6.39). Awareness of contraceptive methods was 34.8% among cases and 56.5% among controls (p = 0.02). Regarding STD awareness and symptoms, 15.2% of cases and 42.4% of controls were knowledgeable and experienced symptoms (p &lt; 0.01). Conclusions: This study suggests that factors such as lower education, minority caste, having more than three siblings, and lack of communication about sexual issues contribute to early pregnancy. These findings could enhance existing ARSH platforms by integrating regular engagement and sensitization efforts.

Vertical price transmission in agricultural markets in Ghana

The purpose of this study was to investigate the extent of price transmission along the agri-food supply chain in selected regions in Ghana. The extent of transmission was used to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of the agricultural marketing systems in the area. Efficient marketing systems are expected to reduce the issue of regional price fluctuations, encourage fair income distribution throughout the supply chain, and improve food security. The preliminary time series stationarity/unit root and seasonality tests were performed using the Augmented Dickey-Fuller test (ADF)/Kwiatkowski, Phillips, Schmidt, and Shin (KPSS) and Canova-Hansen seasonal stability tests respectively. Following the detection of statistically significant threshold effects by the Supremum Likelihood Ratio (Sup-LR) tests, the extent of price transmission was investigated using two-region threshold vector error correction models. The initial tests found that the monthly wholesale, retail, and producer price series for maize, cowpea, and yam used in the study were first difference stationary rather than seasonally integrated. The findings revealed that price signals in the agri-food markets were not fully transmitted across the supply chain. Thus, the extent of price transmission was generally low, creating unexploited arbitrage opportunities along the chain. The study identified high transfer costs (proxied by the threshold parameter) and actor-specific market power (as revealed by the Granger causality test) as the primary obstacles to effective market functioning in the area. Minimizing transfer costs through infrastructural development such as improvements in road networks linking farming communities and markets, access to price information, and regular stakeholder engagements could help improve the functioning of the agri-food markets.

Adapting to the 21st Century Learning: Teaching Strategies of Filipino Sped Teachers in the United States

This study employs a narrative research methodology to explore the instructional modifications and teaching practices utilized by Filipino Special Education (SPED) teachers in the United States to meet the demands of 21st-century learning. Through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with ten purposely selected SPED educators, key themes emerged, including technology integration, differentiated instruction, cultural sensitivity, individualized education plans (IEPs), family and community involvement, and the creation of sensory-friendly environments. Participants highlighted the importance of leveraging technology for personalized learning, implementing varied instructional strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles, and incorporating culturally relevant materials to foster inclusivity. Regular IEP reviews and active family engagement were identified as critical for enhancing student motivation and success. Additionally, creating sensory-friendly classroom environments was emphasized as essential for supporting students' sensory processing needs. The findings indicate that these multifaceted strategies not only promote academic achievement but also enhance social-emotional development and inclusivity among students with special needs. Recommendations include ongoing professional development for educators, increased parental involvement in the IEP process, and systematic reviews of instructional strategies. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of how Filipino SPED teachers adapt their practices in diverse contexts, ultimately informing educational policies and teacher preparation programs aimed at fostering equitable learning environments.

Rebuilding human-nature connections in children and adolescents: insights from a meta-analysis

Beyond correlational studies exploring the benefits of nature exposure, there have been studies assessing interventions that aim to improve nature connection in children and adolescents. A feeling of connection with nature or ‘nature connectedness’ describes our attitude towards nature, primarily reflecting the emotional, cognitive, and experiential aspects. This meta-analysis of 29 studies explored the impact of experimental manipulations on nature connection in young people (less than 18 years old). The results showed that such interventions had a significant positive effect on nature connections in children and adolescents. The presence of environmental education programmes, the quality of engagement with nature (passive or active), and the duration and frequency of intervention (one-off, repeated, or residential) were predictors of effect size. The quality of engagement, such as active participation in environmental education programmes or an intensive residential experience, may be more important than the type of natural setting. Several important implications for future research and practice are suggested by the results, including the need to understand the factors that contribute to improved nature connection, to examine different nature engagement activities, and to develop interventions with regular nature engagement.

The association of calligraphy activities with peace of mind, stress self-management, and perceived health status in older adults.

Calligraphy, as a form of mindful practice, encourages focus, creativity, and relaxation, which collectively contribute to a more peaceful mental state. Through regular engagement in calligraphy, older adults can develop better coping mechanisms for stress, leading to more effective self-management of daily stressors. This enhanced ability to manage stress can reduce the overall burden on their mental and physical health, promoting a more positive outlook on life. This study employed convenience sampling and snowball sampling to select 246 older adults aged 60-70 from Changsha, China, in March 2024 as valid samples. AMOS v.23 was used to construct a structural equation model to validate the hypotheses. The study found a significant positive correlation between calligraphy activities and peace of mind/stress self-management. There is also a significant positive correlation between peace of mind/stress self-management and perceived health status. Additionally, peace of mind and stress self-management act as mediators between calligraphy activities and perceived health status. This indicates that calligraphy activities not only contribute to the psychological well-being of older adults but also indirectly enhance their positive perception of their own health by improving their mental state. Consequently, such activities can be an integral part of holistic health interventions aimed at enhancing the quality of life and overall health of older adults.

User-Centered Design in the Face of Limited User Access

Time with users is a precious commodity that has become increasingly difficult to come by, making it difficult to always employ traditional user study methods. Such methods also run into challenges in sensitive industries, where it is not always possible to openly engage with end-users. These barriers jeopardize good design, and limited user access seeds temptation to bypass user engagement altogether. The primary goal of this work is to share techniques and lessons learned for successful user engagement in the face of limited access to end-users. Three methods are presented here, usage of subject matter experts (SMEs), analogous use cases, and surrogate users, along with key successes and challenges for each. The lessons, limitations, and suggestions presented here reflect work performed across multiple projects over the past several years, where we have utilized combinations of these techniques for conducting user-centered design in the absence of regular direct user engagement.

Association of open skill exercise and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid intake with brain volume changes among older community-dwelling Japanese individuals

Considering that a multifactorial lifestyle approach may prove more effective than a single factor approach to improve or maintain brain health, we evaluated the association of exercise (open skill exercise [OSE] or closed skill exercise [CSE]) combined with long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LCPUFAs) (docosahexaenoic acid [C22:6n-3, DHA], eicosapentaenoic acid [C20:5n-3, EPA], and arachidonic acid [C20:4n-6, ARA]) intake with brain atrophy among older Japanese individuals (n = 795, aged 60–88 years) without a self-reported history of dementia based on the datasets of a two-year longitudinal study. Brain volumes were measured using three-dimensional T1-weighted brain magnetic resonance imaging for follow-up periods of two years. The associations between multivariate-adjusted changes in brain volumes and OSE or CSE frequency (≥ once/month and < once/month) along with LCPUFA intake (≥ median and < median) at the baseline were assessed using a general linear model. Subgroup analysis was performed by restricting DHA and EPA intakes (n = 263; median, 323 mg/d), which represented levels similar to those in countries with low fish consumption. Higher OSE frequencies, ARA intakes, and their combination were inversely associated with decreases in total gray matter and frontal cortex volumes. In subgroup analysis, a combination of higher OSE frequencies and DHA intakes was also associated with a smaller decrease in total gray matter volume. Overall, our findings suggest that regular OSE engagement and appropriate LCPUFA intake may contribute to preventing brain volume decreases in older individuals.

Mobile Learning and Verbal Proficiency: A Cross-Sectional Study Investigating English Speaking Skills Enhancement

Mobile learning supports a constructivist approach to learning by providing student-focused pedagogies and enhancing students' self-directed learning toward a goal. While reading, writing, listening, and speaking are all important life skills, speaking or, to put it another way, communication—occurs often in both official and casual settings. For this reason, speaking is typically more important than the other abilities. Gaining speaking proficiency is just as crucial as developing other abilities that are necessary for target language learners to improve their communication. Offering a comprehensive picture of how mobile learning interventions function for different learner profiles is the aim of this methodical sampling strategy. Due to their widespread use, mobile devices offer unparalleled accessibility and flexibility for learning, independent of location. Consequently, developing successful educational interventions requires an understanding of the connection between these technology benefits and the enhancement of English language proficiency through speaking. Data from 29 surveys were gathered for a quantitative cross-sectional study using Google Forms, which examined the effects of mobile learning, prior English proficiency, frequency of mobile engagement, and their link to English-speaking abilities. The study sought to clarify the importance and association of these factors in improving verbal competency through mobile learning in English language acquisition, using t-tests for group comparison and Cronbach's Alpha for reliability. Findings highlight the necessity for customized methods depending on learners' proficiency levels to maximize their efficacy. Regular mobile learning engagement is strongly correlated with prior English proficiency and increased language abilities.

135 It’s about time for exercise: the Exercise Participation Explained in Relation to Time (EXPERT) Model

Abstract Background ‘Lack of time’ is consistently the most commonly reported barrier to regular exercise participation. However, this term insufficiently captures the complex and multidimensional nature of time. Recognizing the need for a more comprehensive analysis of ‘lack of time’ as a barrier to exercise, in this presentation the authors introduce the Exercise Participation Explained in Relation to Time (EXPERT) model. Purpose To present the temporal (time-related) factors relevant to exercise via the Exercise Participation Explained in Relation to Time (EXPERT) model. Methods To develop the EXPERT model, the authors used a rigorous sequential process that comprised the following steps. First, an umbrella literature review of time as barrier, determinant, and correlate of exercise was conducted. Second, a targeted review of existing temporal models was completed. Third, the lead author developed a first draft of the EXPERT model, led a series of focused discussions with members of the authorship team to refine the model, and then conducted a Delphi process to solicit pointed feedback and produce the penultimate model. Finally, this penultimate model was shared with a convenience sample of end-users and experts who informed revisions to make the final EXPERT model. Results The final EXPERT model factors includes four categories of factors: (1) Temporal needs and preferences for exercise (an individual’s preferences in relation to when they exercise); (2) Temporal autonomy for exercise (an individual’s autonomy in scheduling their free time); (3) Temporal conditions for exercise (an individual’s actual available time for exercise); and, (4) Temporal dimensions of exercise (an individual’s actual use of time for exercise). These four categories include multiple factors which collectively represent an individual’s preferences for, autonomy over, conditions for, and actual use of time for exercise. Conclusions The EXPERT model provides a framework that comprehensively explains the temporal factors that relate to exercise participation. This framework can help guide more nuanced assessments of time as a barrier to exercise and help inform novel approaches to mitigate this pervasive and potent barrier to regular exercise engagement.