Behaviour Change Techniques in Computerized Cognitive Training for Cognitively Healthy Older Adults: A Systematic Review.

We aimed to describe behaviour change techniques (BCT) used in trials evaluating computerised cognitive training (CCT) in cognitively healthy older adults, and explore whether BCTs are associated with improved adherence and efficacy. The 90 papers included in a recent meta-analysis were reviewed for information about adherence and use of BCTs in accordance with the Behaviour Change Taxonomy. Studies using a specific BCT were compared with studies not using that BCT on efficacy (difference in Hedges' g [Δg]) using three level meta-regression models and on median adherence using the Wilcoxon test.

Prevalence and phylogeny of Chlamydiae and hemotropic mycoplasma species in captive and free-living bats.

Background: Bats are hosts for a variety of microorganisms, however, little is known about the presence of Chlamydiales and hemotropic mycoplasmas. This study investigated 475 captive and free-living bats from Switzerland, Germany, and Costa Rica for Chlamydiales and hemotropic mycoplasmas by PCR to determine the prevalence and phylogeny of these organisms.

Results: Screening for Chlamydiales resulted in a total prevalence of 31.

Pole walking down-under: profile of pole walking leaders, walkers and programs in Australia and factors relating to participation.

Issue Addressed: Although pole walking (PW) has the potential to be a useful health-enhancing physical activity (PA), little is known about by whom or how it is being practised. The aims of this study were to describe (1) the characteristics of PW leaders, pole walkers and PW programs in Australia, and (2) participants' perceptions of PW and their reasons for participation.

Methods: In 2012, PW leaders (n=31) and walkers (n=107) completed self-administered surveys that included questions about participants' sociodemographic and health characteristics, PW programs and perceptions of PW.

On your feet: protocol for a randomized controlled trial to compare the effects of pole walking and regular walking on physical and psychosocial health in older adults.

Background: Physical activity is associated with better physical and mental health in older adults. Pole walking is a form of walking which may have additional health benefits in older adults, because of the addition of hand held poles, and consequent upper limb involvement. However, few studies have examined the potential additional effects of pole walking on physical and psychosocial health in older adults compared with walking.

The effects of pole walking on health in adults: a systematic review.

The aim of this systematic review was to summarize the effects of pole walking (PW) programs on physical and psychosocial health. Randomized controlled and controlled trials were identified from literature searches in PubMed, Cochrane library, EMBASE, SPORTdiscuss, CINAHL and PEDRO. A total of 14 articles from 13 studies met the inclusion criteria.