Research@THEA (Technological Higher Education Association)
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Effectiveness of workplace interventions with digital elements to reduce sedentary behaviours in office employees: a systematic review and meta-analysis
No full textBackground: Digital interventions are potential tools for reducing and limiting occupational sedentary behaviour (SB) in sedentary desk-based jobs. Given the harmful effects of sitting too much and sitting for too long while working, the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to examine the effectiveness of workplace interventions, that incorporated digital elements, to reduce the time spent in SB in office workers. Methods: Randomised control trials that evaluated the implementation of workplace interventions that incorporated digital elements for breaking and limiting SB among desk-based jobs were identified by literature searches in six electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, PsycINFO and PEDro) published up to 2023. Studies were included if total and/or occupational SB were assessed. Only studies that reported pre- and postintervention mean differences and standard deviations or standard errors for both intervention arms were used for the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5 (RevMan 5; Cochrane Collaboration, Oxford, UK). Risk of bias was assessed using the Standard Quality Assessment Criteria for Evaluating Primary Research Papers from a Variety of Fields QUALSYST tool. Results: Nineteen studies were included in the systematic review. The most employed digital elements were information delivery and mediated organisational support and social influences. Multicomponent, information, and counselling interventions measuring total and/or occupational/nonoccupational SB time by self-report or via device-based measures were reported. Multicomponent interventions were the most represented. Eleven studies were included in the meta-analysis, which presented a reduction of 29.9 (95% CI: -45.2, -14.5) min/8 h workday in SB (overall effect: Z = 3.81). Conclusions: Multicomponent interventions, using a wide range of digital features, have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing time spent in SB at the workplace among desk-based employees. However, due to hybrid work (i.e., work in the office and home) being a customary mode of work for many employees, it is important for future studies to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of these interventions in the evolving work landscape. Trial registration: The review protocol was registered in the Prospero database (CRD42022377366).ye
Evaluating public and patient involvement in interventional research–A newly developed checklist (EPPIIC)
No full textPublic and patient involvement (PPI) has been identified as an increasingly desired and, often, required component of trial methodology–leading to higher quality, more accessible and relevant clinical research, alongside increased recruitment, funding success and insight into research impact. However, despite the great variety of frameworks and checklists available for assessing PPI, most are limited with respect to important features (e.g. applicable in specific contexts only, fail to clarify what should be assessed and reported, lack the necessary comprehensiveness or are biased in favour of researcher reporting). Thus, the current research aimed to address such limitations through the development of a new checklist, the EPPIIC, through review, thematic analysis and ‘meta-evaluation’ in conjunction with PPI engagement. Upon completion of the EPPIIC, three thematic ‘sub-scales’ emerged: (1) Policy & Practice, (2) Participatory Culture and (3) Influence & Impact. All findings are presented and discussed in light of theory and research. Notably, findings recommend EPPIIC as a useful means of assessing PPI in future trials.ye
Escaping the Echo Chamber: The Night Method and the Role of Disruptive Research in Suicide Studies
No full textTraditional approaches to suicide research often emphasise individual pathology, reinforcing conventional medical and religious narratives. Critical suicidology challenges these approaches, advocating for diverse voices and qualitative methodologies that consult and include first-person experiences. Transdisciplinary approaches can deconstruct habitual tendences that lean toward clinical and statistical analyses, and in doing so highlight areas previously overlooked in academic literature. Research on suicide methods is often focused on the most common three to five methods globally, leaving clinicians, professionals and policymakers under prepared while at the same time ignoring first-person experiences. Night Night is one such method of suicide that, to our knowledge, has not yet been specifically highlighted in academic literature, underscoring the need for more innovative and progressive explorations of suicide.ye
Sustainable polyurethane coatings derived from alkyds of Camelina oil monoglycerides
Get PDFThis study presents the synthesis of sustainable urethane coatings derived from alkyds of Camelina oil (CO) monoglycerides, offering a sustainable alternative to petrochemical resources. Utilizing immobilized lipase for a low-temperature glycerolysis reaction, high-yield monoglycerides were obtained from CO. These were then reacted with dibasic acids (phthalic, succinic, and maleic anhydride) to produce alkyd diols, confirmed by both nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The hydroxyl functionality of the alkyd diols showed a significant enhancement (up to 2200%) over crude CO produced Camelina-based alkyd diols were incorporated into polyurethane formulations and applied to metal substrates. Comprehensive performance evaluations revealed their superior mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties in comparison with previously reported plant-based alkyd-urethane coatings, especially for the phthalic anhydride-derived alkyd diol. The present research underscores the potential of Camelina-derived alkyds in creating high-performance, plant-based coatings, aligning with recent sustainability trends in material science.ye
An investigation of microparasites and microbes in four decapod crustaceans
No full textCrustaceans are valuable components of their ecosystems and support fisheries of economic value. As these fisheries continue to grow worldwide, and particularly for wild decapod crustaceans, it is important to monitor the factors affecting their health in order to ensure appropriate sustainable management measures and to protect crustacean populations from declines. Parasites are one challenge facing crustacean populations which can affect the behaviour,
and physiology of their crustacean hosts, as well as causing high rates of mortality in some cases. The research carried out here aimed to investigate patterns of microparasite infections in four commercial decapod crustacean species; velvet crab (Necora puber), edible crab (Cancer pagurus), spider crab (Maja squinado), and European lobster (Homarus gammarus). Firstly, we carried out a two-year sampling program of velvet crab (Necora puber) in Galway Bay to identify microparasite prevalence and variability in infection, with particular focus on the recently discovered paramyxid Paramarteilia canceri. We found a high prevalence of the parasite overall with both seasonal and annual variation. We examined different host tissues and organs to better understand the biology
of infections. Finally, we provide the first genetic confirmation of the parasite in the gonad and eggs of a berried female, suggesting vertical transmission as a possible transmission route for P. canceri, and highlighting the need for further investigation into the lifecycle of this parasite. The hepatopancreas was identified as one of the organs often infected by the parasite and therefore to further examine the potential impacts of parasite infection, we investigated
the hepatopancreas microbiome of velvet crab. Through the use of next generation sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene, we provide the first description of the hepatopancreas microbiome and we analysed whether infection by P. canceri affected variation in the microbiome. We found no significant variation in the microbiome due to parasite presence but we did find a difference between samples collected at two different sampling points. We also identified a core microbiome present in the hepatopancreas which will provide a baseline for future studies on velvet crab microbiomes and health investigations.
To more broadly investigate microparasite infections in decapod crustaceans, we screened for three important parasite groups; microsporidians, Hematodinium spp, and P. canceri in velvet, spider, and edible crabs and in lobster. The paramyxid P. canceri was identified in all three crab species and we provide novel genetic sequences for each. Microsporidians were found only in velvet crab and we identified two different species, one Ameson sp., a genus known to negatively impact the muscle of crabs, and one unidentified species which will need further study. Going beyond microparasites only, we carried out a systematic review of the literature to gain an overview of the mortality impact of parasites on crustaceans. We found that increased mortality in crustacean hosts infected with parasites was reported from more than half of the records we analysed. Records were from a range of hosts, but most were
from amphipods and decapods, which both had a high percentage of records reporting an increase in mortality with parasite infection. Records were also from a range of parasites, with most records were from protists, oomycetes, and trematodes, for which records reporting an increase in mortality ranged from 80%. Overall, the results of this research provide valuable information on microparasite patterns of infection and interactions with several crustacean hosts, novel insights into the hepatopancreas microbiome of velvet crab, and an overview of the literature on the mortality effects of parasites in crustaceans. We recommend that parasites in crustaceans continue to be investigated in scientific studies and for regular monitoring of crustaceans, particularly in fisheries, there is a need to understand the impacts of parasites and quantify parasite-induced mortality and include this in stock assessments. Further work
is needed to assess parasite impacts at a population level and how this interacts with other ecosystem and human elements, providing opportunities for sustainable management of crustacean populations.n
An in vitro and in silico investigation of the antitrypanosomal activities of the stem bark extracts of Anopyxis klaineana (Pierre) Engl
Get PDFAfrican Trypanosomiasis caused by trypanosome parasites continues to be a major neglected
health problem, particularly in developing countries. Current treatments are marked by serious
side effects, low effectiveness, high toxicity, and drug resistance prompting the need to develop
novel, safe, effective, and alternative antitrypanosomal compounds. Anopyxis klaineana is an
ethnomedicinal plant used in West Africa to treat many ailments including protozoan diseases. In
this study, we investigated the antitrypanosomal potential of stem bark extracts of A. klaineana
through in vitro and in silico approaches. A. klaineana extracts were tested for their antitrypanosomal
activities against Trypanosoma brucei parasite in vitro using Alamar blue assay. In
addition, the antioxidant and cytotoxic activities were determined. LC-ESI-QTOF-MS was used to
identify potential bioactive compounds present in the A. klaineana extracts. Bioactive compounds
identified were subjected to molecular docking studies against Trypanosoma brucei’s trypanothione
reductase (TR) and Uridine Diphosphate Galactose 4′-Epimerase (UDP). The A. klaineana extracts
(methanol, hexane, chloroform, and ethyl acetate) exhibited potential anti-trypanosomal activities
with IC50 values of 21.25 ± 0.755,4.35 ± 0.166,2.57 ± 0.153 and 22.92 ± 2.321 μg/mL
respectively. Moreover, the methanolic crude extracts showed moderate cytotoxicity against HepG2 and PNT2 cells, with IC50 values of 68.0 ± 2.05 and 78.7 ± 2.63 μg/mL respectively. LCMS
analysis revealed the presence of 24 bioactive compounds with 5 being druglike. Risperidone,
Ranolazine, Dihydro-7-Desacetyldeoxygedunin, 6 beta-Hydroxytriamcinolone acetonide, and
Dimethylmatairesinol were identified as novel potential inhibitors of TR and UDP with binding
affinities of 10.4, 7.9, 8.7, 8.4 and 7.1 kcal/mol respectively against TR and 10.8, 8.4,
8.4, 7.6 and 8.1 respectively against UDP. This study indicates that A. klaineana has potential
antitrypanosomal properties and therefore may have the potential to be developed as a
therapeutic intervention for treating African trypanosomiasis.ye
Application of Digitalisation in Regulated Environments for Predictive Failure Modelling
Get PDFThis paper explores the challenges of applying digitalization in regulated pharmaceutical manufacturing environments. A large range of complex equipment including pumps, valves and vessels may be associated with pharmaceutical batch production processes. Maintenance of such equipment are often based on reactive or preventative strategies which are not always effective and not completely successful in preventing costly downtime or scrap. This research examines how predictive maintenance Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) can be developed through data capture using non-intrusive sensors and their integration with production data derived from Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems. The significance of regulation and the associated challenges in applying digitalization within such a highly regulated environment are also considered. This research aims to shed light on the potential benefits and challenges of implementing digital solutions for predictive maintenance in regulated manufacturing environments to contribute to the enhancement of operational efficiency and product quality while reducing costs due to outages.ye
Effectiveness of a minecraft education intervention for improving spatial thinking in primary school children: A mixed methods two-level cluster randomised trial
No full textBackground: Spatial thinking plays a crucial role in STEM success. Minecraft Education, a digital game-based learning platform, provides opportunities for developing students’ spatial thinking while supporting curricular content.
Aim: This study evaluated the effectiveness of a Minecraft Education intervention, integrated into the curriculum, in improving spatial thinking and creativity.
Sample: Fifth and sixth year primary school students (Mage = 11.53, SDage = 0.58) and their teachers.
Methods: The study used a mixed-methods, two-level cluster randomised-controlled trial design. Thirty-two classes (N = 885 students) were randomly assigned to the intervention or education-as-usual control group. Assessments of spatial thinking and creativity were completed at pre-test, post-test and 6-week follow up. Teacher interviews were conducted to understand their experiences of the intervention.
Results: While no overall intervention-related improvements in spatial thinking were found, subgroup analyses revealed that 5th year demonstrated improved spatial thinking compared to 6th year at post-test. This may be attributable to 5th year students’ higher levels of engagement in the intervention. Unexpectedly, creativity scores were higher in the control group at post-test. Qualitative interviews identified four themes: 1) Improving spatial thinking, 2) Improving creativity, 3) Engagement, and 4) Difficulties implementing the programme.
Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of increasing student engagement in spatial interventions to improve their spatial skills. Finally, the study suggests that sustained practice is required to maintain the benefits of spatial instruction/training.ye
A new quantitative method for determining patient risk for reusable medical device categorization based on using and interpreting Kremer’s cleaning classification system
No full textBackground: The cleaning of reusable medical devices involves inherent challenges that
can impact on the effectiveness of the cleaning process; consequently, the subsequent
safety of patients. Fluid dynamics play a critical role in determining the flow and distribution
of cleaning agents where the design of the device can either facilitate or hinder
this important process. Complex geometries, narrow channels, or irregular surfaces can
impede effective flushing of contaminants leading to incomplete cleaning that creates a
greater likelihood for patient contamination risks.
Methods: Device features (N ¼ 23) were exposed to the most challenging cleaning conditions
to find the point of failure in both fluid dynamics and soil retention. Experimental
results obtained from the aforementioned along with associated compound risks were
used to assign a risk value. Using the ‘hardest to clean’ device feature approach as the
base risk value, the total quantitative risk score was calculated for different reusable
medical devices from numerical values obtained from addressing 14 questions focusing on
variability in geometry, material use, types of cleaning, and intended patient use. Patient
risk values for devices with different features were calculated from using Kremer’s
cleaning categories based on position within value ranges.
Findings: Occurrences less than 18 correspond to minimal risk devices while a total risk
score between the values of 18 and 39 are moderate and 40 scores corresponds to the
maximal category.
Conclusion: Application of this quantitative assessment approach will facilitate appropriate
mitigation of risk for cleaning reusable medical devices by informing use of targeted
effective interventions. Future use of this Kremer cleaning classification will complement
and augment disinfection and sterilization modalities.ye
Cryopreservation of vegetative thalli of Ulva species
Get PDFSea lettuce (Ulva) is a genus of green macroalgae present along all the coasts of the world's oceans. It represents about 100 species with diverse habitats. Inter- and intra-species natural variation is very large, both in terms of growth characteristics and biomass biochemical composition. As a result, Ulva biomass has a wide range of applications and strain selection can achieve significant increases in yield(s). Establishing solid, long term and cost-effective methodologies for the conservation of Ulva genetic diversity is then required to safeguard and reuse selected strains. Here, we report a cryopreservation-based protocol for the long-term preservation of foliose Ulva strains. Strains from seven different Ulva species were cryopreserved for 15 and/or 120 days in liquid nitrogen, and of the 3 replicates cryopreserved, at least one survived, allowing us to successfully recover all strains. On average, among all specimen cryo-preserved, 82% of them survived and grew post cryo-preservation.ye