Weeks Of Intervention Research Articles

Effect of suspension training intervention on the balance ability of juvenile deaf-mute patients

Maintaining balance is essential for daily activities; deficits in hearing-impaired adolescents can severely impact their academics and daily life. Suspension training is employed to enhance the coordination of multiple muscle groups within the body and ultimately to improve balance. A total of 105 students with non-genetic hearing impairments, comprising 65 boys and 40 girls, participated in the study. Balance training using the TRS suspension belt included exercises such as prone elbow brace, supine back brace, kneeling elbow brace, lateral elbow brace, prone hip flexion, and supine hip lift. Strength training using equipment involved exercises like single-leg suspension squat, flying bird brace, supine suspension arm flexion, seated static brace, and standing butterfly pinch chest. The main outcome measures included static balance tests (lambda footwork, Wolfson postural stress test), dynamic balance tests (functional forward reach test, balance beam walk test), and vestibule function tests (rotation-walk test). The results of the lambda footwork and Wolfson postural stress tests revealed highly significant differences between 8 weeks and 16 weeks of intervention (p < 0.01). The Functional Forward Stretch test demonstrated a significant difference between 8 weeks of intervention and 2 weeks of intervention at 16 weeks (p < 0.05). The balance beam walking test indicated a significant improvement at 8 weeks (p < 0.05) and a highly significant improvement at 16 weeks (p < 0.01). In the spin-walk test, no statistically significant differences were observed between the pre-experimental test, the 8-week intervention, and the 16-week intervention (p > 0.05). Leveraging the expropriation system to mediate skeletal muscle movement and muscle contraction coordination can improve balance. Suspension training significantly improved balance during activities requiring static non-interference maintenance. However, suspension training did not demonstrate a significant effect on improving vestibule function. Overall, suspension training was effective in enhancing balance in all patients with non-hereditary deafness.

EFFECTIVENESS OF EPLEY MANEUVER AND GANS REPOSITIONING MANEUVER ON DIZZINESS, BALANCE AND KINESIOPHOBIA IN PATIENTS WITH POSTERIOR CANAL BENIGN PAROXYSMAL POSITIONAL VERTIGO

Background: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most prevalent type of peripheral vestibular vertigo, typically affecting the posterior semi-circular canal. Objective: The objective of study was to compare the effectiveness of Epley maneuver and Gans repositioning maneuver on dizziness, balance and kinesiophobia in patients with posterior canal BPPV. Methods: 30 BPPV patients were selected and assigned into two groups based on the selection criteria. Group-A (N=15), received Epley maneuver and 15 were assigned to Group-B, undergone Gans repositioning maneuver, for 20 minutes per session, 3 session (alternate days) per week for 3 weeks. Cawthorne and Cooksey Exercises were given to both the group as common intervention. Dizziness, balance and kinesiophobia were assessed both before and after the 3-week intervention program using Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) scale, Timed-Up and Go (TUG) test and Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK), respectively. The collected data were subsequently tabulated and analyzed using appropriate statistical tools. Results: The unpaired ‘t’ test analysis of dizziness and balance revealed statistically significant scores in DHI(t=2.2259) and TUG(t=2.2547), respectively, at a 95% confidence interval. Consequently, Group A demonstrated significant reduction in dizziness and balance improvement in patients with posterior canal BPPV. The scores of Kinesiophobia for both the groups were (A, Mean=31.6; B, Mean= 32.2), which showed no significant difference(t=1.074), that means the group showed the improvement from baseline. Conclusion: The study concluded that a 3-week intervention combining the Epley maneuver with Cawthorne-Cooksey exercises was effective in treating dizziness, balance and kinesiophobia in patients with posterior canal BPPV. Implication: The Epley and Gans maneuvers effectively reduce dizziness and improve balance in patients with posterior canal BPPV. They also may alleviate kinesiophobia, enhancing patient confidence in movement. These interventions highlight the importance of targeted therapy in managing vestibular disorders, promoting functional recovery and quality of life.

Effects of probiotics on selected anthropometrics and biochemical measures in overweight or obese Saudi subjects: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised clinical trial.

This study aimed to assess the effects of multi-strain probiotics on anthropometric and biochemical measures in Saudi adults with overweight or obesity. Single-centre, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised clinical trial. Occupational Health Clinics at King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Ninety-three Saudi participants with overweight or obesity were randomly assigned to receive twice-daily doses of either placebo (n 49) or 30 × 109 CFU/g of HEXBIO® containing three Lactobacillus and three Bifidobacterium species (n 44) in a double-blind manner over a 12-week period, respectively. Both groups adhered to a hypoenergetic diet. Anthropometric measurements, glycaemic indices and lipid profiles were evaluated at baseline and post-intervention. Following the 12-week intervention, no statistically significant differences were found in all between the probiotic group and placebo group comparisons, except for fat intake, where the group*time interaction showed a significant decrease in favour of the probiotic group (P = 0·02). However, significant within-group reductions were observed in the probiotic group: body weight (-0·9 kg, P = 0·02), HC (-1·5 cm, P = 0·002), energy intake (-387·3 kcal/d, P = 0·002), fasting glucose (-0·7, P = 0·002) and LDL-cholesterol (-0·7, P = 0·02). Consumption of multi-strain probiotic supplementation over 12 weeks significantly decreased fat intake in Saudi adults with overweight or obesity, with the probiotic group highlighting improved anthropometric and biochemical parameters. Further research is needed to evaluate the long-term clinical significance of this dietary practice and whether it has a meaningful impact on overall health beyond the placebo effect.

Exercise in Pediatric COVID-19: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Purpose: This study assessed the impact of a 12-week, home-based exercise training (HBET) program on health-related quality of life (HRQOL, primary outcome), cardiovascular and metabolic parameters in pediatric COVID-19 patients.Methods: In this single-center, randomized controlled trial conducted in Sao Paulo (Brazil) from October 2020 to January 2022, 32 patients (mean age 12 ± 3.3 years; median 4 months [range: 0.7-6.6] between COVID-19 diagnosis [n = 25 mild, n = 4 moderate, n = 3 severe illness] and study entry) from a tertiary hospital were randomly assigned to either HBET or standard of care (CONTROL) in a 2:1 ratio. The HBET group underwent supervised and unsupervised sessions 3 times/week for 12 weeks emphasizing aerobic and bodyweight exercises and the CONTROL group received standard care which included general advice for a healthy lifestyle with no prescribed exercise intervention. HRQOL (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory [PedsQL], cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET), brachial flow-mediated dilation (b-FMD) and echocardiography assessments were conducted in both groups. Statistical analysis was performed using an intention-to-treat approach (ITT) for the primary analysis and complete-case (per-protocol) as sensitivity analysis and significance was set at P ≤ 0.05 (P ≤ 0.10 were considered as trend).Results: There was no difference in HRQOL between groups. Intention-to-treat analysis showed a trend toward increased VO2 at anaerobic threshold at post-intervention for the HBET group. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis showed significant changes in peak HR, HRR1min, RER and chronotropic response and tendency towards significance in VE/MVV and chronotropic response for the HBET group. No other between-group differences were detected for CPET, b-FMD and echocardiography variables (all p > 0.05).Conclusions: In this RCT, a 12-week HBET intervention did not impact HRQOL in pediatric COVID-19 patients. However, HBET led to greater improvements in VO2 VAT, heart rate peak and one-minute recovery and in chronotropic response with no changes in other cardiovascular parameters. Further studies are needed to explore the effects of exercise on the recovery of pediatric COVID-19 patients with persistent COVID-19 symptoms.

Validation and efficacy of a tele-yoga intervention for improving psychological stress, mental health and sleep difficulties of stressed adults diagnosed with long COVID: a prospective, multi-center, open-label single-arm study

The objective of this study was to validate and test the efficacy of a 16-week tele-yoga intervention for perceived stress, anxiety, depression, and insomnia in individuals who had had COVID-19 infection in the previous year, and had reported moderately high levels of psychological stress (PSS ≥14). 25 and 50-min versions of the program were developed. They were then validated using Lawshe’s content validity ratio after obtaining feedback from 20 yoga therapy experts. The safety and efficacy of the two programs were subsequently tested in a prospective, multicenter, open-label single-arm study. Eighty-six adults (18 male, 68 female) were recruited from two tertiary mental healthcare institutions, 48 in NIMHANS, Bengaluru; and 38 in SCARF, Chennai. Participants were assessed at weeks zero, 4, and 16 using validated tools. Data were analyzed using a Mixed Model, Intention to Treat approach. After week 16, 31 subjects remained in the trial and continued to practice yoga without any side effects. Subjects who adhered in the trial had significantly higher levels of baseline anxiety and depression as compared to subjects who dropped out. Results at week 4 included significant reductions in levels of perceived stress, anxiety, and insomnia; improvements were maintained at week 16. Correlations between number of yoga sessions and post-intervention PSS scores were negative (r = −0.49), and significant (p< 0.05). Both tele-yoga programs proved safe, useful tools to counteract perceived stress, anxiety and insomnia. Future trials should explore the utility of tele-yoga as a tool to enhance well-being and manage stress.

Dynamic Analysis of Upper- and Lower-Extremity Performance During Take-Offs and Landings in High-Wall Climbing: Effects of a Plyometric and Strength Training Intervention

This study used a 12-week plyometric and strength training program as an intervention to improve upper- and lower-extremity muscle strength for jumping and landing when climbing high walls. Sixty general non-athlete male college students were openly recruited and divided into an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group underwent a plyometric and strength training program twice a week for 12 weeks (24 sessions). The intervention was divided into three phases, each lasting four weeks, with the training intensity gradually increasing in each phase. A hand grip dynamometer was used to measure grip strength, and a PASCO double-track force plate was used to assess upper-extremity push-up force and lower-extremity take-off and landing strength. The results of the 12-week intervention showed that the experimental group experienced significant increases in grip strength (both hands), hand-ground reaction force, and upper-extremity hang time. Additionally, the time of upper-extremity action on the force plate decreased. Lower-extremity take-off strength improved, as reflected in increased ground reaction force, rate of force development, and passage time. Upon landing, ground reaction force decreased by 3.2%, and cushioning time shortened by 52.7%. This study concludes that plyometric and strength training have promising effects in enhancing upper- and lower-extremity strength, particularly in climbing and landing tasks.

Chanting and meditation: an 8-week intervention to promote executive functions in school-age children

The present study investigated the effectiveness of a newly developed 8-week meditation program, which included chanting and meditation, on executive functions (EFs) in school-age children. Twenty-five students assigned to an experimental group participated in the meditation program, engaging in daily and weekly activities for 8 weeks. Another 25 students served as a control group and participated in regular school activities. Pretest and posttest assessments included the n-back task for working memory, the go/no-go task for inhibition, and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) for cognitive flexibility. A mixed repeated measures ANOVA was conducted to analyze interaction effects, within-group differences, and between-group differences. The experimental group demonstrated greater improvement compared to the control group across several measures: (1) reaction time in the 1-back task, (2) correct responses in the no-go condition of the go/no-go task, and (3) percentage of correct responses, errors, perseverative errors, non-perseverative errors, perseverative responses, and conceptual level responses in the WCST (p < 0.001). These findings underscore the potential benefits of an 8-week school-based meditation program incorporating chanting and meditation for enhancing EFs in school-age children.

The Efficacy and Safety of Green-Lipped Mussel Extract Plus Ginkgo Biloba on Anti-Inflammatory Status in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis

Background: Clinical research on the efficacy of nutraceutical compounds recommended for the relief of osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms has been largely disputed. In addition, no link has been established between its safety and efficacy in Kurdish population. The aim of this study is to determine the efficacy of New Zealand green-lipped mussel extract + Ginkgo biloba (GLME+) in patients with OA, and analyze the effect of GLME+ on inflammation. Methods: In an open-label, single-group allocation study, 40 patients diagnosed with knee OA were administrated 1000 mg/day of New Zealand green-lipped mussel extract and 100 mg/day of Ginkgo biloba for eight weeks. The outcome measure was scored using Western Ontario and McMaster Universities arthritis index (WOMAC). The serum concentration of inflammatory chemokine (CCL3) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were measured. An intention-to-treat analysis was employed and subject data at T0 and T8 weeks. Results: Results showed a significant improvement in WOMAC score in post-treated OA patients with GLME+ (P&lt;0.001). In addition, CCL3 serum levels were significantly decreased after an 8-week intervention (P&lt;0.001). Moreover, no statistical significance was observed within groups in MPO serum levels (P&gt; 0.05). Conclusions: GLME+ improved knee joint pain, stiffness, and mobility in OA patients. Two of GLME+'s chondroprotective properties were the reduction of oxidative damage and the inhibition of inflammation, both of which have been linked to the etiology of OA cartilage destruction. The findings indicated that GLME+ may be useful in the treatment of OA patients.

Changes in the ideal body shape associated with adolescent rowing-ergometry performance following a 6-week training intervention: New scaling insights using three-dimensional allometry.

Scaling, to remove the effects of body size, is an important methodological approach for enabling an equitable comparison of performance differences between individuals who vary in anthropometric characteristics. Many previous studies using scaling in sport have done so based on only one or two anthropometric characteristics, with only one study to date adopting a three-dimensional approach. To apply a three-dimensional allometric model to rowing ergometer performance (REP) in adolescents, and to detect whether key 'scaling' parameters remain stable when scaling REP both before and after a 6-week training intervention. Novel three-dimensional allometric models were used, incorporating body mass, stature and waist circumference (WC) to detect the most appropriate body size dimension(s) and scaling parameters associated with REP before and after a 6-week training intervention. Using this more flexible and sensitive three-dimensional allometry demonstrated that, following 6-weeks of training, there was a change in the ideal body shape associated with REP. Before training, taller, but not heavier, adolescents performed better. After 6-weeks of training, older participants with a greater body mass but smaller WC performed better. Scaling approaches are important for evaluating performance differences between individuals of differing body size. The findings from the current study (using a novel three-dimensional allometry approach) emphasise that relatively subtle changes in individuals' behavioural characteristics, such as changes in their training/fitness status, can result in quite dramatic changes in the body dimension characteristics and scaling parameters deemed to be key for performance in activities such as REP.

Prediabetes and cardiovascular risk factors: the effectiveness of a guided self-determination counselling approach in primary health care, a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundIdentify individuals who are at risk of Type 2 diabetes, who also are at a greater risk of developing cardiovascular disease is important. The rapid worldwide increase in diabetes prevalence call for Primary Health Care to find feasible prevention strategies, to reduce patient risk factors and promote lifestyle changes. Aim of this randomized controlled trial was to investigate how a nurse-lead Guided Self-Determination counselling approach can assist people at risk of type 2 diabetes to lower their coronary heart disease risk.MethodsIn this randomized controlled study, 81 people at risk of developing type 2 diabetes were assigned into an intervention group (n = 39) receiving Guided Self-Determination counselling from Primary Health Care nurses over three months and a control group (n = 42) that received a diet leaflet only. Measurements included the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score questionnaire and biological measurements of Hemoglobin A1c protein, Body Mass Index, fasting blood glucose, Blood pressure, Cholesterol, High-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides, at baseline (time1), 6 (time2) and 9 months (time 3).ResultsA total of 56 participants, equal number in intervention and control groups, completed all measurements. A significant difference between the intervention and control groups, in coronary heart disease risk was not found at 6 nor 9-months. However, within-group data demonstrated that 55.4% of the participants had lower coronary heart disease risk in the next ten years at the 9-month measurement. Indicating an overall 18% relative risk reduction of coronary heart disease risk by participating in the trial, with the number needed to treat for one to lower their risk to be nine. Within the intervention group a significant difference was found between time 1 and 3 in lower body mass index (p = 0.046), hemoglobin A1c level (p = 0.018) and diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.03).ConclusionsAlthough unable to show significant group differences in change of coronary heart disease risk by this 12-weeks intervention, the process of regular measurements and the guided self-determination counselling seem to be beneficial for within-group measures and the overall reduction of coronary heart disease risk factors.Trial registrationThis study is a part of the registered study ‘Effectiveness of Nurse-coordinated Follow-Up Programme in Primary Care for People at Risk of T2DM’ at www.ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04688359) (accessed on 30 December 2020).

Efficacy of a Wearable Activity Tracker With Step-by-Step Goal-Setting on Older Adults' Physical Activity and Sarcopenia Indicators: Clustered Trial.

Smart wearable technology has potential benefits for promoting physical activity and preventing sarcopenia. The purpose of this study was to explore the efficacy of a wearable activity tracker with 2-stage goal-setting for daily steps on older adults' physical activity and sarcopenia indicators. The study used a clustered trial design and was conducted in March to June 2022. Participants were community-dwelling adults older than 60 years who were recruited from 4 community centers in Taipei City. The intervention was designed with 2-stage goals set to 5000 steps/day in the first 4 weeks and 7500 steps/day in the final 4 weeks while wearing a commercial wearable activity tracker. Data were collected by self-reported questionnaires, a body composition analyzer, a handle grip tester, and 5 sit-to-stand tests. All 27 participants in the experimental group and 31 participants in the control group completed the 8-week intervention. Total and light-intensity physical activities, skeletal muscle index, and muscle strength increased, while sedentary time, BMI, and the waist circumference of participants decreased in the experimental group, with significant group-by-time interactions compared to the control group. A wearable activity tracker with gradual goal-setting is an efficient approach to improve older adults' physical activity and sarcopenia indicators. Smart wearable products with behavioral change techniques are recommended to prevent sarcopenia in older adult populations.

Efficacy of Mindfulness Meditation on Patients With Stroke With Concurrent Coronary Heart Disease: A Randomised Controlled Trial.

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of mindfulness meditation on sleep quality and negative emotions in patients with stroke with concurrent coronary heart disease. This study was a randomised controlled trial. A total of 72 patients with stroke with concurrent coronary heart disease were randomly divided into an observation group and a control group, with 36 patients in each group. The control group received routine treatment plus eszopiclone tablets at a dosage of 3 mg once daily. The observation group received mindfulness meditation in addition to the treatment given to the control group. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index was used to assess sleep status, the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale and Self-Rating Depression Scale were used to assess depression and anxiety, and the Fugl-Meyer Assessment was used to assess motor function. All participants in both groups received a 6-week intervention. Pairwise comparisons revealed that the observation group had better outcomes in sleep quality, sleep onset latency, sleep duration, sleep efficiency, sleep disturbances, daytime function and total scores at both 6 and 12 weeks compared with the control group (p < 0.05). After 12 weeks of intervention, compared with the control group, the total score of sleep quality improved more significantly (9.22 ± 2.35/6.26 ± 2.47). Additionally, different treatment methods had varying effects on anxiety scores, depression scores and motor function scores between the two groups (p < 0.001). Further comparisons showed that the observation group had lower anxiety and depression scores and higher motor function scores at both 6 and 12 weeks compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Mindfulness meditation can effectively improve sleep quality and reduce negative emotions in patients with stroke with concurrent coronary heart disease, as well as promote the recovery of limb functions.

Plyometric and Resistance Training: A Dual Approach to Enhance Physical Fitness in 12–15-Year-Old Girls

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an 8-week combined plyometric and resistance training program on the physical fitness (PF) of adolescent girls aged 12 to 15 years. The objective was to determine whether combined training (CT) would yield greater improvements in performance measures compared to resistance training (RT) alone. Methods: Forty-seven adolescent girls were randomly assigned to either the CT group or the RT group. Performance measures such as the 20 m sprint, squat jump, vertical jump, handgrip strength, and flexibility (sit and reach test) were assessed before and after the 8-week intervention. Changes in these measures were analyzed to compare the effects of the two training approaches. Results: The CT group showed a significant reduction in sprint time (−6.5%) compared to the RT group (−4.1%), although the difference was not statistically significant. Squat jump height improved significantly by 5.6% in the CT group compared to 1.1% in the RT group (p &lt; 0.05). Similarly, vertical jump height increased by 6.7% in the CT group and by 2.4% in the RT group (p &lt; 0.05). Handgrip strength improved by 7.5% in the CT group and 4.6% in the RT group, with no significant differences between the groups. Flexibility showed slight, non-significant improvements in both groups. Conclusions: The findings suggest that a combined plyometric and RT program is more effective in enhancing explosive power, specifically squat and vertical jump performance, in adolescent girls compared to RT alone. These results highlight the potential of CT programs for improving overall physical performance in this population.

Effectiveness of King's Theory of Goal Attainment in Blood Glucose Management for Newly Diagnosed Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: Randomized Controlled Trial.

Diabetes poses a significant public health challenge in China and globally, with the number of patients expected to reach 592 million by 2035, notably in Asia. In China alone, an estimated 140 million individuals are living with diabetes, and a significant portion is nonadherent to medications, underscoring the urgency of effective management strategies. Recognizing the necessity of early and comprehensive management for newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes, this study leverages an online teach-back method and "Internet + Nursing" platform based on King's Theory of Goal Attainment. The approach aims to enhance glycemic control and reduce fear and misconceptions about the disease, addressing both the educational and emotional needs of the patients. The primary aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of King's Goal Attainment Theory in the management of newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes. This research sought to develop a collaborative model for blood glucose management, integrating the expertise and roles of physicians, nurses, and patients. The model is designed to enhance the synergy in health care provision, ensuring a comprehensive approach to diabetes management. In this study conducted at Changzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital between January 2022 and February 2023, eligible patients were randomized into a control group or an online feedback group. The control group received standard care, while the online feedback group participated in a King's Theory of Goal Attainment-based online teach-back program, enhanced by "Internet + Nursing" strategies. This included an interactive platform for goal planning, video content sharing, comprehension assessment, misconception correction, and patient-driven recaps of disease information. Health monitoring was facilitated through the "Internet + Nursing" platform. The study focused on comparing changes in glucose metabolism and emotional disorder symptoms between the groups to evaluate the intervention's effectiveness. Following a 24-week intervention, we observed significant differences in key metrics between the online feedback group and the control group, each comprising 60 participants. The online feedback group demonstrated significant reductions in fasting plasma glucose, 2-hour postprandial glucose, and hemoglobin A1c (P<.05). Additionally, there was a notable decrease in hypoglycemia-related anxiety and alexithymia within this group. Conversely, the control group maintained relatively higher values for these metrics at the same time point (P<.05). These findings underscore the efficacy of online feedback in managing glycemic control and reducing psychological distress associated with hypoglycemia. The online teaching-back method, guided by King's Theory of Goal Attainment, effectively enhances glycemic control, reducing fasting plasma glucose, 2-hour postprandial glucose, and hemoglobin A1c levels in newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes. Simultaneously, it alleviates hypoglycemia-related anxiety and mitigates alexithymia. This approach merits widespread promotion and implementation in clinical settings. Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2400079547; https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=208223.

Modulating the gut microbiota in Crohn’s disease: a pilot study on the impact of a plant-based diet with DNA-based monitoring

IntroductionCrohn’s Disease (CD) is characterized by chronic intestinal inflammation and dysbiosis. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a plant-based diet (PBD) on gut microbiota composition and inflammation in CD patients and assess the utility of trnL gene sequencing for monitoring dietary adherence.MethodsFourteen CD patients participated in a 12-week PBD intervention. Dietary adherence was monitored through self-reported food diaries and trnL sequencing, which detects plant residues in fecal samples. Gut microbiota was analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing, and fecal calprotectin levels were measured as an indicator of intestinal inflammation.ResultsTrnL sequencing identified 55 plant genera in fecal samples, compared to 41 reported in food diaries, highlighting its accuracy in assessing plant residue diversity. By week 4, participants demonstrated a 1.4-fold increase in plant intake, correlating with a significant increase in microbial diversity. Key genera associated with gut health, such as Faecalibacterium and Bacteroides, increased in abundance. Additionally, fecal calprotectin levels decreased from 472 mg/kg at baseline to 207 mg/kg at week 12, indicating reduced intestinal inflammation.DiscussionA PBD positively influenced gut microbiota composition and decreased intestinal inflammation in CD patients. The study also demonstrated that trnL sequencing is an effective tool for assessing dietary adherence in clinical settings, offering a more objective measure than self-reported food diaries.

Kinect-Based Mixed Reality Exercise Program Improves Physical Function and Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Exercise is an effective non-pharmacological approach for alleviating treatment-related adverse effects and enhancing physical fitness in breast cancer survivors. A Kinect-based mixed reality device (KMR), with real-time feedback and user data collection, is an innovative exercise intervention for breast cancer survivors. This study aimed to investigate the effect of KMR exercise program on quality of life (QOL) and physical function in breast cancer survivors. Seventy-seven participants were randomly assigned to either the KMR exercise group or home stretching group with an 8-week intervention. Physical function (shoulder range of motion [ROM], body composition, aerobic capacity, and hand grip strength) was evaluated before and after the intervention period. Participants completed questionnaires such as the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH), Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast, and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) to assess upper extremity disabilities, QOL, and physical activity levels. Significant group-by-time interaction was found for flexion of the operated arm (154.3±12.5 to 165.8±11.2), and the non-operated arm (158.2±13.8 to 166.5±12.2), abduction of the non-operated arm (154.8±31.6 to 161.1±28.1), and adduction of the operated arm (46.5±9.1 to 52.6±7.2). Significant improvements were also observed in DASH (46.8±9.1 to 40.8±9.3) and IPAQ (1136.3±612.8 to 1287±664.1). The KMR exercise program effectively improved the physical function, alleviated edema, reduced upper extremity disability, and enhanced the QOL in breast cancer survivors. Coupled with significant group-by-time interactions for various outcomes, the results emphasize the potential benefits of incorporating the KMR exercise program to improve the QOL in breast cancer survivors.

The impact of weight self-stigma on weight-loss treatment engagement and outcome.

Individuals with overweight or obesity often endure significant weight-based prejudice and discrimination in various settings. Experiencing weight-related stigma is linked to many adverse psychosocial outcomes. Weight self-stigma is when an individual internalizes and identifies with negative attributes ascribed to people with larger bodies and has self-devaluing thoughts because of their weight and is associated with poorer health outcomes. This study explored how weight self-stigma may impact weight management efforts and outcomes for adults participating in an onlight weight-loss intervention. 508 adults (86.2% female, 84.6% White) with overweight or obesity participated in an asynchronous 12-week online weight-loss intervention with computer-generated feedback. Weight and weight self-stigma were measured at baseline and 3 months later. Thirty-one point five percent of the sample reported high levels of stigma, which was associated with greater program dropout than those who did not report high stigma (32.5% vs. 21.6%). Program completers reporting high self-stigma showed better treatment engagement (77.0% vs. 69.7% lessons viewed) and weight loss (M = -6.31% vs. -5.08%); these differences were not observed when using intent-to-treat assumptions. When analyzed as a continuous variable, weight self-stigma showed no association with treatment engagement and outcome. These findings highlight the complexity of understanding how self-stigma affects treatment engagement and outcome in behavioral weight loss and the need for more targeted research in this understudied area. Results suggest that weight self-stigma plays a role in weight management during an online weight-loss intervention, affecting engagement and outcomes.

Effects of resistance and strength training on serum phosphorus levels in male footballers: implications for physical educators and sports trainers

Background and Study Aim. Sports performance and overall health of athletes are highly dependent on various physiological markers. Among these, blood biochemistry is of great importance and should be carefully considered in athletes' training regimens. However, the effect of strength and resistance training on serum phosphorus levels still requires further clarification and more effective solutions. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of strength and resistance training on serum phosphorus levels in elite male soccer players. Material and Methods. A sample of 90 volunteers was recruited from football athletes in the Peshawar division. Thirty participants were selected from each of the under-16, under-19, and under-23 age groups. They were divided into three groups: the Resistance Training Group (RTG), the Strength Training Group (STG), and the Control Group (CG). Each group consisted of 30 participants, with 10 from each age category. Phosphorus levels and anthropometric measurements (height, weight, BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR)) were assessed before and after a 12-week strength and resistance training intervention. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and paired sample t-tests were used to evaluate changes over time. Results. Significant improvements were observed in serum phosphorus levels in the Resistance Training Group (4.77±0.258 vs. 3.66±0.207, P&lt;0.001) and in the Strength Training Group (4.31±0.304 vs. 3.66±0.209, P&lt;0.001). A 12-week regimen of strength and resistance training significantly improved serum phosphorus levels among the participants. Analysis of variance indicated that both strength and resistance training significantly affected serum phosphorus levels after 12 weeks of intervention. Tukey’s HSD test revealed that the effects of resistance training were more pronounced than those of strength training. Conclusions. This study highlights the importance of incorporating both strength and resistance training in athletic programs. These training approaches are crucial for optimizing physical health and performance. The findings underscore the need for educators and trainers to adapt and refine their methods to maximize the benefits of these interventions. By doing so, they can enhance the effectiveness of training regimens and contribute to the overall well-being of athletes.

Effectiveness of a school-based high-intensity interval training intervention in adolescents: study protocol of the PRO-HIIT cluster randomised controlled trial

IntroductionHigh-intensity interval training (HIIT) is an effective strategy for improving a variety of health and fitness outcomes within school settings. Incorporating HIIT into existing physical activity opportunities appears practically feasible, yet the process evaluation and effectiveness of this strategy needs to be further evaluated. Therefore, a PRO-HIIT intervention will be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of a 12-week school-based HIIT intervention on cardiorespiratory fitness, physical activity, body composition, muscular strength, bone health, cognitive function, wellbeing and academic performance among 12–13-year-olds.Methods and analysisEight classes of year 7 students (12–13-year-olds) from a secondary school in Ningbo, China, will be recruited and randomly allocated into an intervention or control group. While the control group maintains their usual activities, a 6 to 10 min HIIT session will be embedded in the physical education or physical activity lessons five days a week for 12 weeks for the intervention group. Training workshops will be conducted for participants, teachers, and research staff for facilitating the intervention. Outcome data will be collected at three time points: pre- and post-intervention, and two months (summer holiday) upon completion of the intervention. Linear mixed models will be used to analyse the impact of groups (intervention and control), timepoints (pre-, post- and two-month after intervention) and group by time interactions. The implementation process of the intervention will be evaluated using a process evaluation framework.Ethics and disseminationEthics approval is obtained from the Ningbo University Ethics Committee (TY2024002). Results from PRO-HIIT study will be disseminated via peer-reviewed journals, scientific conferences as well as local education system. The study protocol has been retrospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov Protocol Registration and Results System (NCT06374732), https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06374732.

Intensity and enjoyment of play-based HIIT in children and adolescents with obesity

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has been suggested as an effective treatment approach of childhood obesity. The objective of the present study was to examine intensity, enjoyment, and perceived exertion of a 4x4-minute play-based HIIT program for children and adolescents with obesity. 83 participants (42.2% girls, 12.3±1.5 years, 57.8% boys, 12.0±1.6 years) completed a 12-week intervention comprising three weekly sessions. After nine sessions (weeks 2, 6, and 11), participants rated perceived exertion (RPE) with a Borg scale and enjoyment of activities using the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES). Heart rate (HR) was recorded to assess time spent in high- and moderate-intensity. Participants spent more time in high-intensity during strength-based(P=0.004) and running-based(P=0.007) activities compared to ball games, and more time was spent in moderate-intensity during ball games compared to strength-based(P=0.033) and running-based(P=0.028) activities. Overall, boys spent more time in moderate-intensity than girls(P=0.007). Participants rated RPE lower for ball games than for strength-based(P&lt;0.001) and running-based(P&lt;0.001) activities. Boys rated running-based activities more enjoyable than girls(P=0.021). Exercise intensity and RPE vary by activity in HIIT for children and adolescents with obesity. Ball games led to less high-intensity time and were seen as less exhausting. No differences in RPE or enjoyment were found over time.