Short Breaks Research Articles

The effect of using method timer media on reducing eye fatigue industry workers

The outcomes of an initial research on eye fatigue in the Digital Industry in Yogyakarta, Indonesia revealed that 76% of the employees encountered complaints of eye fatigue as a result of prolonged computer usage. Eye fatigue is considered one of the parameters of office ergonomics in accordance with Indonesian Minister of Health Regulation No. 48 of 2016. One method recommended by this regulation to mitigate eye fatigue is to incorporate short breaks using the 20-20-20 technique. However, a considerable number of workers tend to disregard these recommendations, necessitating the use of media reminders, such as timers, to enforce discipline among workers. The objective of this research was to assess the impact of employing a timer-based media using the 20-20-20 method on the reduction of eye fatigue. The research employed a quasi-experimental design with a nonequivalent control group. In this research, a total of forty workers were selected as the sample population and subsequently divided into two groups: the intervention group and the control group. Sampling was conducted to select a total of 20 workers for each group through purposive sampling. Bivariate analysis was performed using the Sign test and Mann-Whitney test, with a significance threshold of 95% (α=0.05). The results of the statistical tests conducted in both the intervention and control groups revealed a significant difference in reducing eye fatigue, with a p-value of 0.041. This research concludes that the utilization of the 20-20-20 method timer media has a significant effect on reducing eye fatigue among workers.

Variations in Dispensing Psychotropic Drugs to Adolescents Depending on School Periods: A French Nationwide Retrospective Study.

Seasonality patterns are reported for various psychiatric disorders. Concerning adolescents, there is an increased frequency of general emergency department visits for mental health disorders observed between March and May, as well as in October and November. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the French health insurance medico-administrative database. We extracted psychotropic drug deliveries occurring between 2015 and 2019 for patients aged between 12 and 18 years old. Each drug delivery was classified as occurring during a school period (Sc), the summer holidays (SumH) or other shorter holidays periods (ShH). We compared the number of distinct patients, as well as the proportion of new consumers, according to week status. Anxiolytics and hypnotics were more frequently dispensed during the school periods and short breaks than during the summer holidays. Conversely, antidepressants were more commonly dispensed during the short breaks rather than school periods and summer holidays. The stressful effects induced by schooling appear to be addressed in the first line by anxiolytics and hypnotics, while antidepressants are more frequently introduced during school holidays.

ACADEMIC EMOTIONS OF LEARNING ENGLISH THROUGH ENGLISH NATIVE SPEAKER’S VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: STUDENTS’ VOICE

Academic emotions are the feelings or emotions that students experience when they are learning. This study aimed to analyze students' academic emotions regarding the use of English-native speaker videos on YouTube for learning vocabulary. A qualitative design was used to conduct the study, which employed a questionnaire and in-depth interviews to collect data. The participants of this study were third- and fifth-semester English major students at Universitas Muhammadiyah Kendari. The findings showed that, in terms of positive emotions, students enjoyed the learning process and were motivated to continue learning vocabulary. It was because the videos of English native speakers on YouTube provided interesting material, easy-to-understand pronunciation, and freedom to choose topics. Students were optimistic about the benefits of these videos for vocabulary improvement and proud of their learning achievements when learning vocabulary. Furthermore, in the negative emotions, it showed that the students did not feel desperate when learning vocabulary through native speaker videos on YouTube, and students generally do not get bored because they can overcome boredom in various ways, such as choosing short videos, changing to other videos, or taking short breaks. These conclusions suggest that English-native speaker videos on YouTube are an effective and enjoyable vocabulary learning medium for students.

Short breaks and micro vacations: scale development and validation of micro vacation motivation

Purpose In view of the rapid growth of micro vacation trend in post-pandemic era, this study aims to identify the underlying motivational factors for micro vacation by developing and validating a measurement scale, while explore the influence of micro vacation motivation on travel intention. Design/methodology/approach This research adopts mixed methods. Nine dimensions with 38 items are initially yielded through extensive literature review and in-depth interview (n = 22). Expert panel review filters the scale into eight dimensions with 35 items. Principal component analysis (n = 376) purifies the measures into a 35-item and seven-dimension scale, further confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis (n = 616). Nomological validity test (n = 694) proved the positive effect of micro vacation motivation on travel intention. Findings The results present a measurement scale of micro vacation motivation and reveals its seven dimensions: self-presentation, spiritual satisfaction, bonding, convenience, sense of rituals, place attachment and perceived risk. All the motivational factors positively influence travel intention for a micro vacation. Practical implications Through profound comprehension of micro vacationers’ travel motivation, destination marketers and tourism providers can better design their products based on vacationers’ needs while stimulate potential market’s visiting intention by diverse marketing activities. Originality/value This study enriches the literature of micro vacation tourism and deepens the knowledge of travel motivation, filling the research gap of tourists’ motivation in micro vacation market.

Short, frequent physical activity breaks improve working memory while preserving cerebral blood flow in adolescents during prolonged sitting - AbbaH teen, a randomized crossover trial

PurposePhysical activity (PA) breaks during school lessons have been suggested as a promising strategy to improve working memory performance in children and adolescents. There is a lack of studies investigating the underlying physiological mechanisms of PA on cognition, especially among adolescents. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different types of short frequent PA on adolescents’ cognitive task-related changes in cerebral blood flow in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and working memory performance compared to prolonged sitting.MethodsIn this randomized crossover study, adolescents visited the laboratory on three different occasions for 80-minute sessions of prolonged sitting interrupted by four breaks for three minutes of simple resistance training (SRA), step-up at a pre-determined pace (STEP), or remaining seated (SOCIAL). Before and after each session, cognitive task-related changes in cerebral blood flow (oxygenated-hemoglobin, Oxy-Hb) during working memory tasks (1-, 2-, 3-back tests) were measured using functional near-infrared spectroscopy in the PFC. Accuracy and reaction time were derived from the working memory tasks. Linear mixed-effect models were used to analyze the data.ResultsA total of 17 students participated (mean age 13.6 years, 11 girls). Significant time x condition interactions were noted for Oxy-Hb in the most demanding working memory task (3-back), with a decrease following prolonged sitting in the SOCIAL condition compared to both the SRA (β 0.18, 95% CI 0.12, 0.24) and the STEP (β 0.11, 95% CI 0.05, 0.17). This was observed in parallel with improvements in reaction time following SRA (β -30.11, 95% CI -59.08, -1.13) and STEP (β -34.29, 95% CI -69.22, 0.63) although this was only significant for the SRA and no improvements in the SOCIAL condition.ConclusionWe found that short frequent PA breaks during prolonged sitting among adolescents can prevent the decrease in cognitive task-related changes in cerebral blood flow that occur following prolonged sitting. This was observed simultaneously with improvements in working memory, indicating that changes in cerebral blood flow could be one factor explaining the effects on working memory. Future studies should investigate the efficacy of implementing these PA breaks in schools.Trial registrationRetrospectively registered on 21/09/2020, ClinicalTrial (NCT04552626).

Cooler break areas: Reducing heat stress among construction workers in Japan

This study explores the break environment conditions provided to construction workers in hot and humid climates and assesses the impact of the thermal conditions in rest areas on the physiological and psychological responses of the workers. It was conducted during summer in Japan with 26 male rebar workers across five construction sites by monitoring variables such as ambient temperature, humidity, step count, pulse rate, blood pressure, forehead skin temperature, and fatigue level. Workers worked for approximately 8–9 h per day, with scheduled 15–30-min short breaks at 10:00 and 15:00, in addition to a 1-h break at lunchtime. While the work sites exhibited temperatures ranging from 30.0 to 38.4 °C and relative humidity between 47.0 and 87.2 %, the thermal conditions in the rest areas varied, with temperatures from 26.9 to 35.8 °C and relative humidity from 45.4 to 83.4 %. We found that break periods in cooler areas led to lower pulse rates and prevented excessive pulse pressure decreases after exercise. Additionally, the combination of a cooler environment during breaks with a cooling jacket led to lower maximum forehead skin temperatures during the subsequent work periods. However, workers tended to report higher tiredness levels when break areas were cooler. Therefore, while providing cool rest areas is beneficial for worker recovery and preventing heat-related illnesses, the potential negative effects on workers’ perception of tiredness should be considered.

Frequency of breaks, amount of muscular rest, and sustained muscle activity related to neck pain in a pooled dataset.

Neck pain remains a persistent challenge in modern society and is frequently encountered across a wide range of occupations, particularly those involving repetitive and monotonous tasks. It might be expected that patterns of trapezius muscle activity at work, characterized by few breaks and prolonged periods of sustained muscle activity, are linked to neck pain. However, previous cross-sectional studies have generally failed to establish a definitive association. While some longitudinal studies have suggested that extended periods of heightened muscle activity could be a risk factor for neck pain, these findings often relied on limited participant numbers or specific professional groups. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between trapezius muscle activity and neck pain by pooling data from seven Scandinavian research institutes encompassing a diverse range of occupational backgrounds. Electromyographic (EMG) data for the upper trapezius muscle, collected during working hours, were coupled with questionnaire responses pertaining to neck pain, individual characteristics, and potential confounding variables for a total of 731 subjects. Additionally, longitudinal data from 258 subjects were available. The various EMG datasets were consolidated into a standardized format, and efforts were made to harmonize inquiries about neck pain. Regression analyses, adjusting for sex and height, were conducted to explore the associations between muscle activity variables and neck pain. An exposure index was devised to quantify the cumulative neck load experienced during working hours and to differentiate between various occupational categories. The cross-sectional data displayed a distinct pattern characterized by positive associations for brief periods of sustained muscle activity (SUMA) and negative associations for prolonged SUMA-periods and neck pain. The longitudinal data exhibited a contrasting trend, although it was not as pronounced as the cross-sectional findings. When employing the exposure index, notable differences in cumulative muscle load emerged among occupational groups, and positive associations with longitudinal neck pain were identified. The results suggest that individuals with neck pain experience higher cumulative workloads and extended periods of muscle activity over the long term. In the short term, they appear to compensate by taking frequent short breaks, resulting in a lower cumulative workload. Regardless of their occupation, it is crucial to distribute work breaks throughout the workday to ensure that the cumulative load remains manageable.

Take a Break for Memory Sake! Effects of Short Physical Activity Breaks on Inhibitory Control, Episodic Memory, and Event-Related Potentials in Children.

The pervasive sedentary lifestyle exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly reduced physical activity (PA) among school-age children, necessitating innovative strategies to evaluate short PA breaks that are feasible in a classroom setting. This study explored the cognitive and neurophysiological (electroencephalography; EEG) impacts of short bouts of different PA modalities on inhibitory control (flanker task) and episodic memory (word recognition task) in children. Utilizing a within-participants cross-over design, thirty-six children (n = 36; 9-12 years old) attended the lab on three separate days with each visit including either a 9 min bout of sustained moderate-intensity cycling, high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE), or seated rest. Event-related potentials (ERPs) were assessed during the flanker task (P3 component) and the word recognition task (LPC and FN400 components) to elucidate the neural mechanisms underpinning behavioral outcomes. Findings indicated no differences in flanker performance but greater episodic memory recall for HIIE compared to seated rest. Neurophysiological results revealed no differences for P3, but notably larger amplitude for LPC and FN400 postcycling, particularly over parietal electrode sites. These results underscore the potential of short PA breaks to improve cognitive and neurocognitive function in children, offering a feasible integration strategy into daily school routines without extensive time commitment.

Analisis Kemampuan Guru dalam Menangani Masalah dalam Belajar Mengajar di SMK Swasta Bandung Percut Sei Tuan

Although it is hoped that school children are able to deal with learning situations well, in reality students often experience obstacles in the teaching and learning process, which shows a gap between expectations and educational reality. This research focuses on a teacher from the Bandung Percut Sei Tuan Private Vocational High School (SMK). The aim of this research is to identify and understand the problems faced by teachers in teaching and the approaches used to overcome these obstacles through in-depth and open interviews. Interviews were conducted in the teacher's work space, with the aim of creating an environment that supports and encourages teachers to share experiences and their thoughts openly. The interview guide consisted of five questions designed to explore the main challenges in teaching, conflict resolution strategies, and the teacher's ways of dealing with students' low interest or difficulty in following lessons. The teacher identified major challenges such as lazy attitude towards studying, tendency to sleep, and high interest in playing among students. In facing this challenge, teachers adopt a flexible approach by providing short breaks between intensive learning sessions to maintain students' energy and focus. In terms of conflict resolution, teachers emphasize the importance of patience and self-control, as well as providing positive reinforcement for desired behavior. Teachers also emphasize the need to treat students with compassion and emotional attention, seeing them as biological children who must be cared for and guided with care. In addition, teachers realize the importance of collaborating with parents to support students' holistic development. The research results show that the main challenges faced by teachers in teaching at the Bandung Percut Sei Tuan Private Vocational School can be overcome through a flexible approach, positive reinforcement, and deep emotional attention. This approach is believed to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment, which in turn can improve students' emotional well-being and academic achievement. This research provides important insights for educators in developing effective strategies to overcome obstacles in the teaching and learning process

Supporting Individuals With an Acquired Brain Injury: An Interpretative Phenomenological Study Exploring the Everyday Lives of Caregivers.

Acquired brain injury (ABI) is one of the most common causes of disability and death globally. Support from informal caregivers is critical to the well-being and quality of life of people with ABI and supports the sustainability of global health and social care systems. This study presents an in-depth qualitative analysis of the experiences of eight British informal caregivers supporting someone with ABI. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with narratives transcribed verbatim and analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). Three superordinate themes were generated: making sense of brain injury; being consumed by caregiving; and, the changing self. These data highlight the impact of caregiving on the caregiver's illness perceptions and sense of self. By identifying negative and positive changes in the caregiver's sense of self, and dilemmas regarding the care recipient's behaviour, we address less understood aspects of caregiver experiences. Caregiving can pose both challenges to the caregiver's sense of identity and an opportunity for self-growth. Some caregivers exhibit resilience throughout their journey, with post-traumatic growth more apparent in the later stages of caregiving. Illness perceptions shape caregiver well-being and family dynamics and indicate the need to address stigmatisation and discrimination faced by ABI survivors and caregivers. Although some caregivers acquired positive meaning and enrichment from their caregiving, previously described challenges of ABI caregiving are supported. Overall, our findings support the need for timely psychological/mental health support for caregivers, caregiver education, and the provision of short breaks from caregiving.

Micro-breaks in focus: mitigating emotional labour impact in the hospitality industry from a conservation of resources perspective

ABSTRACT This study, based on the Conservation of Resources theory, investigates the use of micro-breaks as a resource conservation strategy in the hospitality industry. It examines how emotional labour influences deviant behaviours among frontline staff, with ego depletion serving as a mediator, and evaluates how micro-break activities can moderate the effects of ego depletion on these behaviours. Data from 573 online surveys and 30 semi-structured interviews indicate that surface acting is positively linked to deviant behaviour through emotional ego depletion, while deep acting reduces such behaviour. Importantly, short breaks at work assist in alleviating the detrimental effects of emotional labour on deviant behaviour, providing practical strategies for managing the pressures of emotional labour in the service sector.

Prevalence of neck pain and associated risk factors among the private sector office employees in Bangladesh

Background: Globally, most people face several musculoskeletal problems, especially neck pain. Activities, work styles, and living standards of office employees in Bangladesh vary from place to place. Hence, our aim is to investigate the prevalence of neck pain and related risk factors in Bangladeshi private sector employees. Methodology: A sample was selected to assess neck pain prevalence and related risk factors among 384 private sector employees aged 21–60 years in Bangladesh. Regression analysis was performed on their socio-economic, neck pain, and associated risk factors information through interviews with questionnaires. Results: Data analysis shows that office employees have a relatively higher prevalence rate of cervical pain and it is 34.7%. In this study, we found the results of a logistic regression model to predict factors associated with neck pain. The results of this study indicated that individuals aged 40 years and above, with an OR of 6.148 (P = 0.046) and neck holding the forward bent posture for a prolonged time, were slightly significant to have neck pain (P<0.001). Conclusions: The neck pain prevalence was high among private sector office workers in Bangladesh and some associated neck pain factors were found in this study. The results of our investigation indicated that individuals with higher age, and neck holding position were slightly significant to have neck pain. These research findings also suggest scope for work strategies that can promote a positive work environment, such as short breaks at work and an ergonomic setting.

Performance analysis of deep borehole heat exchangers for decarbonization of heating systems

AbstractMeeting the climate change mitigation targets will require a substantial shift from fossil to clean fuels in the heating sector. Heat pumps with deep borehole exchangers are a promising solution to reduce emissions. Here the thermal behavior of deep borehole exchangers (DBHEs) ranging from 1 to 2 km was analyzed for various heat flow profiles. A strong correlation between thermal energy extraction and power output from DBHEs was found, also influenced by the heating profile employed. Longer operating time over the year typically resulted in higher energy production, while shorter one yielded higher average thermal power output, highlighting the importance of the choice of heating strategy and system design for optimal performance of DBHEs. Short breaks in operation for regenerating the borehole, for example, with waste heat, proved to be favorable for the performance yielding an overall heat output close to the same as with continuous extraction of heat. The results demonstrate the usefulness of deep boreholes for dense urban areas with less available space. As the heat production from a single DBHE in Finnish conditions ranges from half up to even a few GWh a year, the technology is best suitable for larger heat loads.

Reconstructing episodic and multi-vent, rhyolitic eruptions: The ∼ 1314 CE Kaharoa eruption of the Tarawera Dome Complex, Okataina Caldera (New Zealand)

Detailed stratigraphic reconstructions and quantitative deposit characterisations of moderate to large-scale rhyolitic eruptions are limited. This hinders our ability to model the multiple eruptive phenomena and hazards associated with rhyolitic volcanism. To gain new perspectives on the patterns and behaviours of rhyolitic eruptions, we present a study on the explosive phases of the 1314 ± 12 CE Kaharoa eruption of Tarawera, New Zealand. The eruption occurred from multiple aligned vents within the Okataina Caldera and is the youngest rhyolitic eruption of the frequently active Taupō Volcanic Zone. We systematically quantify the deposit characteristics of the Kaharoa pyroclastic succession to provide new insights into the type of eruption sequence and eruptive style changes. Based on field evidence, stratigraphic correlations, grain size and componentry analyses, we subdivide the Kaharoa deposit into 24 units and identify 7 main deposit types, which are linked to different eruptive and depositional processes. The explosive activity was discontinuous, characterised by repeated discrete episodes of sustained magma discharge separated by short time breaks. The activity consisted mainly of repeated subplinian-type columns that gave way to fallout deposition and emplacement of numerous lapilli beds. This activity transitioned to a pyroclastic density current (PDC) dominated phase in response to lateral vent migration. Ash emission activity occurred within and towards the end of the explosive sequence, indicating declines in the eruptive intensity. Six main intra-eruption phases (A to F) of dominant eruptive styles are established to describe the temporal evolution of the eruption. Phases A, B and D are associated with the repeated subplinian-type activity. Phase C comprises the major PDC activity, while the final two Phases E and F are associated with ash emission during initiation of lava dome extrusion and to the final dome-building sequence. This study highlights the complex nature of episodic, multi-phase, and multi-vent, explosive to dome-forming rhyolitic eruptions, depicting a scenario of great relevance for future volcanic hazard studies at active rhyolitic volcanoes worldwide.

Optimizing Work Efficiency by Addressing Operator Fatigue Concerns

The study conducted at PT. Tjiwi Kimia aimed to assess the fatigue criteria and mental load experienced by production operators of cartoon box in the context of the company's 3-shift operation. Using the Bourdon Wiersma method for fatigue evaluation and the NASA TLX method for mental load analysis, findings revealed varying levels of fatigue and mental burden across different shifts. Notably, the morning shift exhibited "Good enough" speed fatigue but "Doubtful" accuracy fatigue, while the night shift showed "Enough" consistency fatigue. Furthermore, the mental burden was highest during the night shift, categorized as "High." These findings underscore the importance of addressing shift-related fatigue and mental load in industrial settings. Recommendations for implementing 3-shift rotations with weekends off and providing short breaks reflect potential strategies to mitigate worker fatigue and improve overall well-being. Future research could explore additional factors influencing worker fatigue and mental load, such as ergonomic interventions or technological advancements in production processes. Highlight: Shift Work Effects: Assessing fatigue and mental load in industrial settings. Evaluation Methods: Bourdon Wiersma and NASA TLX for worker analysis. Improvement Suggestions: Implementing 3-shift rotations and providing breaks. Keywoard: Fatigue, Mental Load, Production Operators, Shift Work, Industrial Setting

Out of the Classroom Context: Narratives of Licensed Teachers Assigned to School Offices

This study explored the out-of-the-classroom experiences of licensed teachers working in school offices. Eight (8) office workers were also licensed teachers who participated in the study coming from Poblacion Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental. This study made use of a phenomenological approach to extract the ideas of the teacher participants. The in- depth interview was employed to gather some information as regards their respective experiences. Using the thematic analysis, the following themes emerged about the experiences of the participants: the experiences of the licensed teachers working in offices were, working with loads of paper, being flexible with office work, and beating office deadlines. The coping mechanisms of the teachers were, embracing office realities, taking short breaks for relaxation, and seeking assistance from senior workers. The insights of the participants delved into two factors: Providing part- time jobs to licensed teachers and attending office- related training or seminars. For the college president or school heads to be more observant of the performance of their office workers. They should ensure that the office workers are performing their assigned tasks based on the expected results. The licensed teachers working in various school offices may be more responsive to the needs of their clientele.

Exercise Prescription for Postprandial Glycemic Management.

The detrimental impacts of postprandial hyperglycemia on health are a critical concern, and exercise is recognized a pivotal tool in enhancing glycemic control after a meal. However, current exercise recommendations for managing postprandial glucose levels remain fairly broad and require deeper clarification. This review examines the existing literature aiming to offer a comprehensive guide for exercise prescription to optimize postprandial glycemic management. Specifically, it considers various exercise parameters (i.e., exercise timing, type, intensity, volume, pattern) for crafting exercise prescriptions. Findings predominantly indicate that moderate-intensity exercise initiated shortly after meals may substantially improve glucose response to a meal in healthy individuals and those with type 2 diabetes. Moreover, incorporating short activity breaks throughout the exercise session may provide additional benefits for reducing glucose response.

Older and younger adults differ in time course of skill acquisition but not in overall improvement in a bimanual visuomotor tracking task.

Manual motor performance declines with age, but the extent to which age influences the acquisition of new skills remains a topic of debate. Here, we examined whether older healthy adults show less training-dependent performance improvements during a single session of a bimanual pinch task than younger adults. We also explored whether physical and cognitive factors, such as grip strength or motor-cognitive ability, are associated with performance improvements. Healthy younger (n = 16) and older (n = 20) adults performed three training blocks separated by short breaks. Participants were tasked with producing visually instructed changes in pinch force using their right and left thumb and index fingers. Task complexity was varied by shifting between bimanual mirror-symmetric and inverse-asymmetric changes in pinch force. Older adults generally displayed higher visuomotor force tracking errors during the more complex inverse-asymmetric task compared to younger adults. Both groups showed a comparable net decrease in visuomotor force tracking error over the entire session, but their improvement trajectories differed. Young adults showed enhanced visuomotor tracking error only in the first block, while older adults exhibited a more gradual improvement over the three training blocks. Furthermore, grip strength and performance on a motor-cognitive test battery scaled positively with individual performance improvements during the first block in both age groups. Together, the results show subtle age-dependent differences in the rate of bimanual visuomotor skill acquisition, while overall short-term learning ability is maintained.

Physical activity improves stress load, recovery, and academic performance-related parameters among university students: a longitudinal study on daily level

BackgroundPhysical activity has been proven to be beneficial for physical and psychological health as well as for academic achievement. However, especially university students are insufficiently physically active because of difficulties in time management regarding study, work, and social demands. As they are at a crucial life stage, it is of interest how physical activity affects university students' stress load and recovery as well as their academic performance.MethodsStudent´s behavior during home studying in times of COVID-19 was examined longitudinally on a daily basis during a ten-day study period (N = 57, aged M = 23.5 years, SD = 2.8, studying between the 1st to 13th semester (M = 5.8, SD = 4.1)). Two-level regression models were conducted to predict daily variations in stress load, recovery and perceived academic performance depending on leisure-time physical activity and short physical activity breaks during studying periods. Parameters of the individual home studying behavior were also taken into account as covariates.ResultsWhile physical activity breaks only positively affect stress load (functional stress b = 0.032, p < 0.01) and perceived academic performance (b = 0.121, p < 0.001), leisure-time physical activity affects parameters of stress load (functional stress: b = 0.003, p < 0.001, dysfunctional stress: b = -0.002, p < 0.01), recovery experience (b = -0.003, p < 0.001) and perceived academic performance (b = 0.012, p < 0.001). Home study behavior regarding the number of breaks and longest stretch of time also shows associations with recovery experience and perceived academic performance.ConclusionsStudy results confirm the importance of different physical activities for university students` stress load, recovery experience and perceived academic performance in home studying periods. Universities should promote physical activity to keep their students healthy and capable of performing well in academic study: On the one hand, they can offer opportunities to be physically active in leisure time. On the other hand, they can support physical activity breaks during the learning process and in the immediate location of study.

Training Laboratory Rabbits to Refine Routine Husbandry Procedures.

Non-aversive handling and training techniques for laboratory animals are required to facilitate experimental and routine husbandry procedures, improving both animal welfare and scientific quality. Clicker training was utilized to develop training protocols for rabbits to refine stressful routine husbandry procedures usually associated with lifting (i.e., being picked up from the floor)/restraining (i.e., being held in the arms of a human) them. Thirteen female New Zealand White rabbits were trained over three weeks. All rabbits learned the predefined goal behaviors: they followed the target stick, jumped onto the weighing scale, entered a transport box, and reared while placing their front paws onto the trainer's hand. In addition, ten animals jumped from the floor onto the sitting trainer's lap and allowed the trainer to lift their paws off the surface while sitting on the trainer's lap. For some individuals, the protocols had to be adapted by additional interim steps. At the end of the training, the rabbits reliably showed the expected goal behaviors, even after short and long training breaks. With few exceptions, a familiar person other than the trainer could elicit the goal behaviors from the rabbits (generalization), though further sessions were required for generalization. In the voluntary approach test, the rabbits preferred interacting with the trainer in the 1st trial but spent as much time with an unfamiliar person as with the trainer in the 2nd trial. The behavioral observations suggested that picking the rabbits up with the transport box, as described in the protocol, instead of restraining them with the scruff of their neck and lifting them on the arm, was less aversive. All in all, the training protocols were feasible and can serve as a refinement strategy in laboratory animal facilities. In the interest of animal welfare, the training protocols should be applied wherever possible.