Safe Space Research Articles

Development of a horizontal seepage test system of constructed wetland and research on the seepage characteristics based on micro-pollution water

Horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetlands (HSFCW) were widely used as an effective biotechnology for wastewater treatment. However, clogging of the substrate bed was a key factor restricting its application. In this study, a horizontal seepage test system was independently developed, which was used to reveal the development trends of hydraulic resistance in HSFCW, as well as changes in permeability coefficients with time. The relationship between the average permeability coefficient and purification effect was further analyzed. The results showed that the new test system has proved the law of resistance development in HSFCW. The distribution characteristics of the isobaric surface indicate that the blockage of the HSFCW gradually spreads from the lower part to the lower part. The seepage resistance of homogeneous subbed in HSFCW was mainly concentrated in the front end. The growth rate of hydraulic loss in the core zone ranged from 0.685 to 19.515 cm·month−1, the growth rate in the transition zone ranged from 0.223 to 0.695 cm·month−1, and little change occurred in the safety zone. At the end of the HSFCW operation, the widths of the core, transition, and safety zones account for approximately 20–30 %, 50–70 %, and 10–20 % of the entire wetland length, respectively. Meanwhile, the SS removal rate stabilized at over 92 %, when the average permeability coefficient reached 41.45 m·d−1. The removal rate of COD and TN was higher when the average permeability coefficient is between 59.45 and 41.45 m·d−1 and 27.08–59.45 m·d−1, respectively. This study provided a horizontal testing method to accurately understand the changes in the seepage field in HSFCW.

Trust calibration through perceptual and predictive information of the external context in autonomous vehicle

Maintaining an appropriate level of trust is critical for driving safety in autonomous vehicles. While enhancing the driver’s situation awareness (SA) of system information in autonomous driving is known to significantly promote trust calibration, it remains unclear whether enhancing the driver’s SA of the external context during driving contributes to this calibration. This study addresses this gap by improving SA of the external context during Level 3 (L3) driving automation across various driving environments. Driving contexts were manipulated using distinct road conditions containing low, medium, or high contextual risks. To enhance driver’s SA of the driving context, we redesigned the in-vehicle central control panel to display real-time perceptual and predictive information about the external driving context. We hypothesized that SA of driving contexts would facilitate trust calibration rather than merely enhancing trust, allowing trust to adjust to appropriate levels under different driving conditions. Experiment 1 examined the impact of perceptual information about the road, traffic infrastructure, and surrounding vehicles on drivers’ trust. We found that driver’s trust decreased with increased contextual risk only when the reconfigured panel was used, while the number of accidents was not affected. Experiment 2 investigated the effect of predictive information about the external context on drivers’ trust by marking safe and dangerous zones around driver’s vehicle with green and red areas, respectively. We revealed that the predictive information calibrated the trust according to road conditions and increased overall trust levels, while the number of accidents was not affected. Together, these findings suggest that enhancing perception and prediction of external contexts helps drivers align their trust with contextual risk levels in L3 driving automation without compromising driving safety.

Academic nursing administrators perceptions of replacing clinical hours with simulation

BackgroundNursing education has seen a shift towards simulation-based education (SBE) to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. Maryland's Clinical Simulation Resource Consortium (MCSRC) aimed to enhance SBE utilization; however, noted a decline in SBE usage post pandemic prompting an investigation into nurse administrators' perspectives on replacing clinical hours with SBE. MethodsThis descriptive quality improvement study was informed by Rogers' Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) Theory. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with four academic nurse administrators from various pre-licensure nursing programs in Maryland. The data collected were analyzed using thematic analysis. ResultsNurse administrators who value SBE as a safe learning space are integral when building and maintaining infrastructure to support simulation usage. Identified barriers related to faculty buy-in, workload, and inadequate human resources to deliver high-quality simulations can hinder sustained adoption of clinical simulation. ConclusionsThis study highlights the necessity of continuous faculty training in SBE and dedicated resources to support simulation infrastructure. Recommendations include sustained investment in faculty development, creating specialized roles for simulation champions, and fostering collaborations to strengthen simulation integration. The findings emphasize the pivotal role of nurse administrators in navigating challenges and maximizing SBE's potential to replace clinical hours in nursing education, urging ongoing support and strategic planning for successful integration.

Challenges and opportunities of sustained public involvement in maternal health research: a practice case study with reflections from researchers and public contributors

It is widely agreed that collaboration with people with lived experience of specific health conditions or health services is both a moral imperative and a utility to improve research quality, validity and impact. However, there is little agreement about how to practise public involvement. In this article, we describe the formation and work of the Nottingham Maternity Research Network, an ongoing research reference panel that supports public involvement in maternal health research. Drawing on nine years’ experience, researchers and public contributors reflect together on the key issues to consider when co-producing research with maternity service users: first, pragmatic considerations, and second, creating a safe space for drawing on intimate and sometimes traumatic experiences. We argue that a sustained model of public involvement and engagement – that is, a standing group rather than a series of project-based, time-limited opportunities for involvement – brings opportunities to build trust and to develop a community that is supportive and inclusive. However, the sustained model of public involvement also brings practical challenges.

Building inclusion: participation and circularity for accessible architectures in Palestine

This paper describes the outcome of an international cooperation project aiming at contributing to the protection and the promotion of rights of people with disabilities and to their participation in increasingly inclusive and accessible communities. In Palestine, military occupation causes a lack of basic infrastructures, empty land and planning, de-facto making public areas rare. The opportunity to access an inclusive and safe space is a fundamental factor in quality of living. The participatory processes applied here to implement spatial transformation through sustainable micro-infrastructures foster awareness and knowledge sharing among the participants, despite the obstacles and limits acknowledged herein, opening to possible future developments.

Hot deformation behavior of an ignition resistance Mg–6Zn-0.6Zr-1.2Ca magnesium alloy

The addition of Ca could enhance the ignition point of magnesium alloys but impairing their workability, so it is essential to study the hot deformation behavior of new Ca-containing ignition resistance magnesium alloys. The hot deformation behavior of a new ignition resistance Mg–6Zn-0.6Zr-1.2Ca alloy was investigated by compression experiment in the temperature range of 240 °C–360 °C, strain rates of 10−3 s−1-1 s−1 and height reduction of 10%–60%. The true stress-strain curves show that flow stress decreases as the deformation temperature increases or the strain rate decreases. Microstructure analysis shows that higher temperatures and lower strain rates are favorable for DRX, while higher strain rates promote the fragmentation of the Ca2Mg6Zn3 phase. Meanwhile, the existence of Ca2Mg6Zn3 phase make the DRX process be dominated by the particle-induced subgrain nucleation mechanism. By superposition of the power dissipation map and the instability map, a hot processing map of true strain of 0.6 is generated. According to analyses on the processing map and microstructure evolution, the instability of processing map can be attributed to the greater dislocation motion resistances, insufficient DRX, and Ca2Mg6Zn3 phase with low-melting point. Conversely, the optimal processing parameters for the alloy were determined as 280–360 °C/0.001–0.01 s−1 in safe zone with a high η above 0.3, which can be due to the apparent DRX and good deformation coordination.

Predictors of adolescent well-being around the globe: are students from Confucian East Asia different?

PurposeUsing rich data from nearly 400,000 15-year-olds across 70 middle- and high-income countries and economies participating in PISA 2018, this study investigates (1) global predictors of adolescent subjective well-being (SWB), and (2) differences in adolescent life satisfaction, its predictors and endowments with predictors across world regions and cultures. A particular focus lies on comparing Confucian East Asia (CEA) with other world regions.MethodsData were analyzed using multiple linear regressions and Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition. As measures of adolescent well-being, this study employs life satisfaction, affective well-being, and meaning in life.ResultsGlobally, adolescent well-being outcomes are found to be most strongly linked to gender, personality, relative SES, relationship quality, peer SWB, autonomy and the learning environment, as well as local cultural factors. Estimations by world region reveal several culture-specific explanations for interregional well-being gaps. In particular, notoriously low levels of life satisfaction among students from CEA countries are found to be associated with low self-efficacy, low peer well-being, as well as with high emotional interdependence compared to other world regions. Emotional interdependence is more strongly experienced among CEA adolescents compared to adolescents from any other world region. Moreover, it is found to be more strongly associated with life satisfaction in the CEA region than in any other region. In line with the former, CEA students show stronger links between other relational factors (parents’ emotional support; sense of belonging at school) and life satisfaction compared to most other regions.ImplicationsThis study suggests that among the environmental factors that shape the experience of adolescent lives, relationship and cultural factors play key roles and are closely intertwined. Parents, educators and policymakers around the world should focus on creating a positive school environment that promotes well-being, student self-efficacy, a sense of belonging, and a safe space in which failure is accepted as part of the learning process. This is particularly needed in Confucian East Asian countries.

Mental Health Arts Festival as a tool for mental health promotion

Abstract Background of the problem 1 in 4 people experience mental health problems each year, and that number is only growing. Stigma and discrimination of mental health are widespread and affect the quality of life at the individual and societal level. The WHO identifies mental health arts festivals as an effective way to reduce stigma and improve mental health. Description of the problem We are not comfortable talking about mental health difficulties and the care we need. Consequently, individuals often withhold personal experiences to shield themselves from potential bias and harsh judgement. Methodology The Mental Health Arts Festival (MHAF) Bonds https://www.rysiaifest.lt/, https://www.facebook.com/Rysiaifest) seeks to contribute to the human rights based mental health knowledge creation across the partner organisations, involved communities and audiences, as well as contribute to local creation of artworks on the topic of mental health in open, accessible, safe space where every voice matters. The biannual MHAF brings together recognised artists, arts institutions, scientists, policy makers and communities of people with mental health issues (over 80 events, attracting about 4,500 spectators) for group exhibition, films, contemporary dance and live performances, literary readings, open microphones, followed by discussions and workshops. Qualitative study methodology is applied to assess the potential impacts of the MHAF. Lessons • Visual identity that seeks to challenge existing stigmatising views. • The festival has become the production or premier place of new artworks on the topics of mental health, spanning addiction, war-related trauma, transgenerational trauma, neurodiversity. Key messages • Mental health arts festivals promote mental health literacy and reduce negative attitudes towards health-seeking behaviour. • Art festivals should be an integral part of national programs to address stigma and promote mental health and well-being.

Risk communication with migrants: Lessons learned from the COVID-19 Pandemic experience in Malmö

Abstract Background During the COVID-19 pandemic, many migrants faced challenges in accessing, comprehending and implementing information, leading to mis- and disinformation and distrust. The pandemic underscored the importance of effective risk communication (RC) and community engagement (CE) that reaches all segments of society, both for managing health effects and preventing the reinforcement of discrimination and stigmatization. This study aims to describe the experience of RCCE targeting migrants in Malmö, Sweden, from an expert perspective. Further, to gain an in-depth understanding of the requirements for inclusive RCCE actions and to identify alternative or complementary strategies based on good local practices. Methods Individual interviews were conducted with experts representing civil society and public authorities who were purposely sampled based on their engagement with RCCE targeting migrants. The interview guide was based on a review of international guidelines addressing aspects of RCCE, and analysed with content analysis. Results Three key organisations working towards undocumented migrants; unaccompanied minors; and newly arrived refugees, respectively, were included. Findings are synthesized into three key insights: a) RC through trusted sources in safe spaces; b) Understanding migrant living conditions c) Promoting intersectoral collaboration and feedback loops. Experts underscored the importance of cultivating sustainable and relationships with migrant communities to effectively communicate, aiding in compliance and counter distrust. The significance of intersectoral collaboration and communication pathways was highlighted for assessing migrant specific needs and designing appropriate interventions. Conclusions Long-term trusting relationship facilitate RC. Embedding sustainability within intersectoral collaboration structures is imperative to facilitate swift mobilization during health crises, foster resilience, and counter health inequities.

Strategies for primary healthcare in Ukraine: An integrated response to gender-based violence

Abstract Issue/problem Survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) and conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) in Ukraine face significant challenges in accessing appropriate healthcare services. Despite governmental commitment, acknowledgment and regulatory frameworks, including the ratification of the Istanbul Convention, gaps persist in integrating comprehensive GBV/CRSV services into primary healthcare (PHC) settings, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict with Russia. Description of the problem An analysis of healthcare providers’ knowledge has revealed deficiencies in effectively supporting GBV/CRSV survivors. Barriers include workload pressures, lack of inter-sectoral cooperation and case-management protocols, and insufficient training opportunities on survivor support. In collaboration with the World Health Organization, the global Clinical Management of Rape (CMR) guidelines was adapted for Ukrainian context. Among findings from CMR trainings attended by 443 PHC providers in 2022-2023 (213 participants in 2022 and 230 participants in 2023), the results underscore gaps in PHC workers’ basic knowledge and readiness to effectively support survivors during the war. Results Data from WHO training sessions underscored significant gaps in knowledge among healthcare professionals regarding legal protocols, available resources, and best practices in PHC service delivery. Identified barriers emphasized the urgent need for targeted interventions to enhance PHC workers’ capacity in GBV/CRSV response. Lessons Recommendations focus on systemic enhancements including revising regulatory frameworks, developing standardized protocols, and institutionalizing and providing comprehensive training programs. Innovative approaches like online courses, mentoring programs, and integrated service models are crucial for addressing multifaceted challenges. Key messages • A holistic GBV/CRSV response is an essential component in PHC. • This intersectoral survivor-centered approach provides safe spaces that can be adapted to other contexts in Europe.

Co-creating stigma-prevention strategies for mental health interventions with migrant populations

Abstract Background The ADVANCE project aims to address mental health disparities among people in a situation of vulnerability in Europe. Through a co-creation approach, workshops were conducted to devise stigma prevention strategies during the implementation of mental health promotion interventions for migrant populations in Italy and Denmark. Methods The methodology involved two rounds of scenario-based workshops, a participatory method that elicit expert opinions to solve local problems and anticipate future ones. Round 1 included two separate workshops with (1) end-users and umbrella organizations, and (2) healthcare practitioners and decision-makers, to ensure diverse perspectives and minimize the impact of power imbalances. Participants brainstormed strategies to minimize stigma and optimize the intervention scenario. In Round 2, a mixed-group workshop was held to refine the strategies. Workshops occurred in Copenhagen and Verona in March 2024. Content analysis of the data was carried out. Results In Denmark, discussions emphasized tailored presentation of the intervention promoting shared experiences and normalizing mental health challenges, language sensitivity, participation through self-identification, and attention to relational aspects in intervention delivery to combat stigma effectively and enhance acceptability and engagement with the intervention. In Italy, proposed strategies included group exercises to raise awareness and promote open dialogue about cultural differences, language barriers, and discrimination. Discussions also considered the intersectionality of stigma, including factors like gender, socioeconomic status, and sexual orientation. Common themes included language sensitivity, facilitator training, and inclusive and safe spaces. Conclusions Scenario-based workshops can be a valuable tool to facilitate the co-creation of stigma-prevention strategies while involving all stakeholders in promoting effective mental health interventions. Key messages • Co-creation approach fostered stakeholder collaboration, yielding tailored strategies that promote inclusivity, acceptability and engagement with mental health interventions for migrant populations. • Context-specific approaches that emphasize trust, confidentiality and cultural sensitivity were prioritised to tackle stigma when implementing interventions and promoting mental health equity.

We are wales: taking the hospital to the community - an engagement experiment

Abstract In Wales we are facing two major barriers to public health engagement. The first is describing our communities as ‘hard to reach’ when in public service we make little effort to reach them, and second, we do not consider in population level research or practice how we are perpetuating the sense of, and real, inequality in our communities that our work on social determinants of health and health inequalities seeks to address. In Wales we want to take the ‘hospital to the community’; to meet people where they are at, where they live and work and where they experience barriers to inclusion, discrimination, lack of trust and fear. ‘We are Wales’ is is built on the Museum of the United Nations concept of a global we - except we will start small with a small nation that as yet has not worked out how to include and involve everyone in our communities in the policy and practice decisions that may help, or hinder us all from leading a healthier, happier life. ‘We are Wales’ is a simple concept; it is about amplifying and connecting people who would not normally do so, because they do not have the resources or capacity to travel or take time out. It is about equal power in a connection to find solutions to adversity and trauma caused by structural inequality; it is about relationships, inclusion, kindness and compassion - and listening, sharing and taking action without judgement. We have taken a dome to communities in economically deprived areas of Wales and stimulated conversation between politicians, young people and communities around the concept of home. Using a virtual reality dome to project images to encourage discussion we have provided a safe space to amplify and include the voices of those who want to be heard and deserve to be listened to. Key messages • ‘Take the hospital to the community’ - meet people where they are at and feel safe. • power sharing and an equal place at the table stimulates ideas and knowledge change in a trauma-informed way.

3.X.2. Integrating trust as a key component of pandemic preparedness and resilience

Abstract Trust is a key component of pandemic preparedness, which impacts the success of response measures during the public health emergency. Trust is built during preparedness, however the drivers and dimensions of trust are complex and context-specific. What is required is a collaborative, inclusive approach that provides a platform for communities to express their questions and concerns. The proposed workshop will begin with a presentation from a global expert on trust in the content of epidemics and pandemics and the current knowledge about how trust can be built during preparedness. This will be followed by interactive group-work, designed to encourage collaborative discussions and decision-making. Finally, introducing the WHO Hive digital platform that provides a safe space for public health communities to share information and ask questions. Attendees will then reconvene in plenary to discuss these approaches and interventions that can be implemented to build and maintain trust prior to and during an epidemic or pandemic. This workshop has the following objectives: 1. To demonstrate how trust is an important determinant of successful pandemic response; 2. To enable attendees to explore how the implementation of public health and social measures, infodemic management and digital community partnerships and engagement can build trust during pandemic preparedness for both online and offline communities; 3. To provide opportunity for attendees to workshop how the different features of the Hive digital space can enhance trust building, and to develop actionable strategies for health emergency preparedness, response and resilience. The workshop will deliver these objectives through an interactive simulation activity. Attendees will be placed into small groups to work through a scenario, having to decide on the actions that need to be taken, considering budget constraints, other health priorities, and the current local context. The teams will co-create actionable strategies for building and maintaining trust. While there is not a one size fits all approach to trust building, this workshop will aim to increase understanding of the drivers and determinants of trust to encourage participants to consider how they can be applied in their local context. It will be interactive and hands-on requiring active participation from participants. Key messages • Trust as a construct is an important component of pandemic preparedness and readiness that impacts on response. • A multidimensional approach to building and sustaining trust needs to considered across a range of drivers and determinants, where actionable strategies are vital.

Harassment of interns, medical interns and residents: consequences and complaints

Abstract Introduction Workplace harassment manifests in various forms for healthcare students, potentially leading to modifications in their lives and academic activities. Objectives To describe the type of harassment experienced by interns, medical interns, and residents, and its consequences. Methods A cross-sectional and prospective study was conducted, including medical interns, social service interns, and residents from Veracruz who reported experiencing harassment in their assigned areas during their last academic year. Direct and virtual invitations were sent through various electronic means. Results 58 students were included, with 39 (67.2%) being women. 50% reported experiencing psychological abuse, and 65.5% reported experiencing sexual harassment. The most severe sexual harassment incidents included sexual assault with physical force (1.7%) and three instances of non-consensual sexual relations (5.2%), while the most common were sexual jokes/comments (72.4%). Following harassment experiences, 25% of participants reported feeling anxious, 22% stressed, and 17% angry. Students who perceived psychological abuse reported anger (69%), stress (58.6%), and anxiety (58.6%) as the most frequent consequences, while those reporting sexual abuse indicated anger (73.7%), shame (68.4%), and anxiety as primary consequences. The most frequently identified harassers were attending physicians (56.9%), senior students (34.5%), and non-medical personnel (34.5%). Students filed complaints with hospital authorities (6.9%), university authorities (6.9%), and external agencies (5.2%). The individual who experienced sexual assault with physical force did not file any complaint, while only one person reported non-consensual sexual relations to hospital authorities. Conclusions It is crucial to establish safe spaces for students within the hospital environment to promote their overall well-being and academic success, as well as to encourage a culture of reporting. Key messages • Highlighting the need for intervention within the work teams where our students are placed, promoting a violence-free environment. • Annexing a therapist as part of the work team could favor the well-being of students, since mental health is one of the main points affected within a violent environment.

“The Church of Fail”: Learning from Our Mistakes in Co-Creation (part I)

Abstract Our workshop commences with a short presentation about what co-creation is, and the power that lies in learning from failures. Then, the facilitator will open the sharing session with the aim to set a safe space by presenting some ground rules for engagement. Then, the participants will be invited to step forward and share their story of failure. Each participant is invited to introduce themselves, and answer three simple questions: What did you fail at? How did you cope with it? What would you do differently? When the participant finishes their story, the facilitator will thank them and the audience will applaud them for sharing. This part of the workshop will go as long as there are people who want to share (with limitations).

Prioritizing health, well-being, active ageing needs in Lithuania: insights from stakeholders

Abstract Background The rate of aging in Lithuania is faster than the EU average. The number of long-term health problems in older (65+yrs) people increases, posing changes in societal needs. The aim of our study was to identify the most important needs of older people in Lithuania. Methods Generic qualitative inquiry employed purposeful sampling of stakeholders in Lithuania: policymakers, administration, academia, civil society, health care, social service, public health, organizations of elderly. 43 experts, engaged in online focus groups, generated a list of needs for health, wellbeing, active ageing in elderly; they deliberated to prioritize top 5; scientific team condensed a list of 10 for voting to determine final 5 national needs. Research was done within project “Roadmap to improve the health and well-being of the ageing population in the Baltic Sea Region (AgeFLAG)”, 2020. Results Top needs identified were: shaping healthy lifestyle habits and motivation for change (72%) / age friendly environment and virtual assistive technologies (72%); person centred care (domiciliary care, residential care and nursing, social activities and etc. depending on the needs and wishes of the older person) (58%); increasing and maintaining physical capacity (56%); intersectoral collaboration and integration of social and health services (53%); establishment of positive public attitudes towards elderly people (50%). All stakeholders indicated that “Establishment of positive public attitudes towards elderly people” is the corner stone of all priorities for action to healthy ageing in Lithuania. Conclusions The main issue hindering active and healthy ageing in Lithuania - negative image of ageing in the society. Recommendations on the public health actions included promoting intergenerational conversation, reducing stigmas around ageing, strengthening social inclusion, generating age-friendly environments, and creating a safe space for self-realization and development. Key messages • The main issue hindering active and healthy ageing in Lithuania – negative image of ageing in the society. • The change in the population requires the transformation of health care and social care systems building age friendly environments in Lithuania.

Creating a safe space: medical students’ perspectives on using actor simulations for learning communication skills

BackgroundCommunication skills are an essential part of clinical competence that need to be acquired during health professions education. Simulations are extensively used for learning communication skills and have long been integral to medical degree programmes. In this research we use qualitative methodology to explore fourth-year medical students’ experiences in simulations aimed at improving versatile doctor-patient communication, focusing on their learning with trained actors.MethodsThe data comprises reflective writings from 208 fourth-year medical students, gathered after a communication skills course. These students provided informed consent for their writings to be included in the research. We performed an inductive qualitative content analysis on the textual data, with findings presented as themes, supported by categories, codes, and excerpts from raw data to enhance the trustworthiness of the analysis.ResultsWe identified eight key themes capturing students’ learning experiences through simulations: practising in a safe learning environment, valuing feedback, gaining new perspectives, finding simulations valuable and enjoyable, boosting confidence and self-knowledge, and viewing simulations as authentic and engaging learning opportunities. Some students offered critical perspectives on simulations. Throughout the course, students learned diverse aspects of patient care, emotional and behavioural communication dynamics, and lessons from medical errors. Some students offered critical perspectives on simulations, and a few indicated they did not learn anything new.ConclusionsA safe learning environment is vital for encouraging learners to explore, make errors, and absorb feedback to improve their communication with patients. Students predominantly valued the communication skills training with actors and the constructive feedback received and given in the debriefing discussions. However, some students expressed critical views toward simulations. Simulations are not static; they evolve and require continual improvements. Hence, we advocate for the ongoing exploration and enhancement of communication skills learning methods, including simulations, with careful consideration for students’ vulnerability and the importance of psychological safety. Additionally, it is critical to address students’ perceptions that certain clinical teachers prioritise biomedical knowledge over communication skills. Providing tailored training for teachers regarding the learning methods and the desired outcomes of communication courses is essential.

Exploring Health Professionals’ Views on Hive: A Digital collaborative space for Health Emergencies

Abstract Background The rapidly changing media landscape has significantly affected how information is consumed, particularly during health emergencies. Conflicting information shared or information lacking in scientific rigour can be exploited nefariously online to undermine the health response and damage trust. Digital platforms have become increasingly vital for facilitating communication, and in response, the WHO developed the Hive digital space to provide a safe environment for public health professionals to convene, share information, ask questions, and learn from each other. This study aims to explore the experiences of public health professionals in health emergencies to assess the added value of the Hive platform to coordinate and connect health expertise globally. Methods This study uses a cross-sectional online survey distributed to Hive users focusing on their experiences of working in health emergencies. The responses will undergo descriptive and thematic analysis, as well as inferential statistics such as one-way ANOVA and post-hoc analysis. The survey will emphasize the practical application, value, satisfaction, perceptions, and strategy for the Hive platform to be utilised for global health emergency coordination. Expected Outcomes Insights from this study will delineate how the Hive platform is used by public health experts at all levels in emergency management. It will also highlight the challenges, needs and demands for digital tools to connect skills, experience and knowledge in one place. These insights will demonstrate how the Hive can streamline these processes and provide a safe space for information exchange for a coordinated response to health emergencies. Conclusions Understanding the needs and perceptions of Hive users involved in health emergency prevention, preparedness, response, and resilience will provide critical insights into optimizing the platform’s usability, connectiveness across emergency teams and sustainability of the platform. Key messages • Connecting communities, fostering collaboration and co-creation for improved health emergency management. • Hive enhances collaboration among health professionals, providing a safe environment for knowledge and information sharing.

Planning Public Space Climate Comfortability: A GIS-Based Algorithm for the Compact Cities of the Far North

The issue of forming a comfortable environment in cities with complex climatic conditions has always been an urgent and difficult issue for urban planners. Cities located in the territories of the Far North are characterized by extremely harsh climatic characteristics that affect the planning solutions for the public spaces of the city. Low temperatures and strong winds reduce the time of comfortable stay in the open air, which leads to a decrease in the mobility of the population in the city and stimulates the use of personal cars. The research question is the rational placement of points of interest on the street network to ensure a comfortable travel time between objects. The research methodology of public space planning taking into account the climatic comfortability of Far North cities is proposed in this article. Also, an automated GIS-based algorithm for determining intermediate points on linear objects to increase POIs’ connectivity for the development of the public space of Far North cities under the condition of organizing climatic comfort is proposed. Development of safe and comfortable public space on the basis of network accessibility, taking into account the difficult climatic conditions of these cities, will increase the social activity of the population and tourists, as well as promote economic growth and business development in the city.

Why Can’t My Child Play Too? Current Challenges of Public Playgrounds for Children with Disabilities.

Current Australian legislation promotes playground inclusion for all children, and playgrounds serve as local, safe, and vital spaces for children of all ages to play. The World Health Organisation International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, Children and Youth Version states that play is a key activity to engage children with disability in various areas of their lives, and there is no doubt that playgrounds can promote community and social engagement for all children. Consequently, accessible playgrounds are important because they can offer motor, psychological, and social skill development in a fun-filled environment. Nonetheless, some children encounter challenges in playground settings. Surprisingly, very little research has been conducted in Australia on the experiences of children with disabilities in public playgrounds. According to the National Autism Strategy announced by the Australian Government in 2022, there is a growing number of Australians on the autism spectrum. For many individuals with an autistic spectrum disorder (ASD), life outcomes in education, health, and family functioning are worse than they should be. Consequently, while this paper addresses a general perspective of inclusive playground experience for children with disabilities, there is also a focus on the experiences of children with ASD in playgrounds. As a result, this literature review begins with an introduction to the prevalence of autistic spectrum disorder and its associated characteristics. It presents existing research on play, examining various playground factors that impact the experiences of children with disabilities, including ASD. In addition, the role of parents/carers in influencing the outdoor experiences of children with disability is also explored. In conclusion, this paper summarises key findings and proposes relevant research questions to address these gaps.