Activity Program Research Articles

Pelatihan Pembuatan Produk Instan Berbasis Fermentasi Ikan di UMKM Barokah Palembang-Sumatera Selatan

The COVID-19 pandemic, which has spread worldwide since the beginning of 2020, has also impacted the development of the UMKM in Palembang. On the other hand, the Department of Fisheries Product Technology, Faculty of Agricultural, University of Sriwijaya, constantly conducts research based on local resources that have produced patents. One of the resulting patents is for instant bekasam with registration number P00202110332. The community activity program that introduces the technology for making instant products from fermented fish begins with preparations including preparation of supporting facilities and product manufacture. The training on making instant products was attended by more than 30 target audiences who are members of the fish processing and marketing business group in the Keramasan Village, Kertapati District, Palembang. The implementation of activities has been published in print and online media, including via: https://beritapagi.co.id/2022/09/18/unsri-gelar-pelatihan-pembuatan-produk-instan-berbasis-fermentasi-ikan.html

Adapted Physical Activity Programs for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Neurotypical Children: Differences between Online and Face-to-Face Training

During the COVID-19 pandemic, physical activity was significantly decreased in all age groups. The purpose of this study is to investigate children’s motor skills by administering an adapted physical activity program for the development of coordination skills. The sample consisted of 28 children aged 8 to 12 years, 20 neurotypical children and 8 with ASD-HF. Data collection employed various methods, including a personal information form, a leisure time exercise questionnaire, a semi-structured interview, and the Harre Dexterity Circuit for assessing physical activity improvements. The results of the two-way analysis of variance (two-way ANOVA) Tukey HSD test showed the differences between the specific groups, ASD-P vs. ASD-O (p < 0.001), ASD-O vs. AB-O (p < 0.001), ASD-O vs. AB-P (p < 0.001), ASD-O vs. AB-P (p = 0.136), ASD-P vs. AB-P (p < 0.0010, and AB-P vs. AB-O (p = 0.003). As result, both groups showed strong interest in practicing physical activity, and no statistical difference was found in doing so at home or in attendance, showing that physical activity practice is a tool for parent–child bonding and mutual enjoyment, emphasizing that the mixed approach yielded positive results in all participants.

Feasibility and impact of a physical activity and lifestyle program for Aboriginal families with Machado-Joseph disease in the Top End of Australia.

Physical activity and lifestyle programs are scarce for people with hereditary ataxias and neurodegenerative diseases. Aboriginal families in the Top End of Australia who have lived with Machado-Joseph disease (MJD) for generations co-designed a physical activity and lifestyle program called the Staying Strong Toolbox. The aim of the present study was to explore feasibility and impact of the program on walking and moving around. A mixed-methods, multiple case study design was used to pilot the Staying Strong Toolbox. Eight individuals with MJD participated in the program for 4 weeks. Participants tailored their own program using the Toolbox workbook. Families, support workers and researchers facilitated each individual's program. Feasibility was determined through program participation, adherence, coinciding or serious adverse events, participant acceptability and cost. Impact was determined through measures of mobility, ataxia, steps, quality of life, wellbeing and goal attainment, assessed before and after the program. All participants completed the program, averaging five activity sessions per week, 66 minutes per session, of walking (63.5%), strengthening/balance-based activities (16%), cycling (11.4%) and activities of daily living, cultural and lifestyle activities (10.5%). Seven participants were assessed on all measures on three occasions (baseline, pre-program and post-program), while one participant could not complete post-program measures due to ceremonial responsibilities. All had significant improvements in mobility, steps taken and ataxia severity (p<0.05) after the program. Quality of life and wellbeing were maintained. The program helped participants remain 'strong on the inside and outside'. Participants recommended implementation in 4-week blocks and for the program to be shared internationally. The Staying Strong Toolbox program was feasible for families with MJD. The program had a positive impact on walking and moving around, with participants feeling stronger on the outside (physically) and inside (emotionally, spiritually, psychosocially). The program could be adapted for use by other families with MJD.

Chromatin-associated cohesin turns over extensively and forms new cohesive linkages in Drosophila oocytes during meiotic prophase

In dividing cells, accurate chromosome segregation depends on sister chromatid cohesion, protein linkages that are established during DNA replication. Faithful chromosome segregation in oocytes requires that cohesion, first established in S phase, remain intact for days to decades, depending on the organism. Premature loss of meiotic cohesion in oocytes leads to the production of aneuploid gametes and contributes to the increased incidence of meiotic segregation errors as women age (maternal age effect). The prevailing model is that cohesive linkages do not turn over in mammalian oocytes. However, we have previously reported that cohesion-related defects arise in Drosophila oocytes when individual cohesin subunits or cohesin regulators are knocked down after meiotic S phase. Here, we use two strategies to express a tagged cohesin subunit exclusively during mid-prophase in Drosophila oocytes and demonstrate that newly expressed cohesin is used to form de novo linkages after meiotic S phase. Cohesin along the arms of oocyte chromosomes appears to completely turn over within a 2-day window during prophase, whereas replacement is less extensive at centromeres. Unlike S-phase cohesion establishment, the formation of new cohesive linkages during meiotic prophase does not require acetylation of conserved lysines within the Smc3 head. Our findings indicate that maintenance of cohesion between S phase and chromosome segregation in Drosophila oocytes requires an active cohesion rejuvenation program that generates new cohesive linkages during meiotic prophase.

A Case Study of the Quality of Life and Life Satisfaction of Children and Youth Participation in a Physical Activity Program for the Height Increase

A Case Study of the Quality of Life and Life Satisfaction of Children and Youth Participation in a Physical Activity Program for the Height Increase

PENINGKATAN MUTU AIR SUMUR SIAP MINUM MELALUI FILTRASI DENGAN BIAYA EKONOMIS

Water is one of important substance for human being. Good water for daily needs has to be clean, no colour and odorless. Other than that for consumtion good water also has to contain important minerals needed by human body. The villagers of Kampung Melayu RW 01 Kelurahan Setokok , Kecamatan Bulang uses rain water and digging well to get water for their daily needs. This water does not meet basic requirements for daily needs. In community service activity programme in 2020, the students of Mechanical Engineering of Engineering Faculty Uniba conducted education for the villagers on the importance of clean water for life and how to get it at low cost. The education focused on technical matter to get clean water by filtration system. Filtration method uses plastic bottle, gravel, cotton, charcoal and water tubing to purify water. After purification by filtration system water meets all requirements as stated in Indonesian Goverment Law Number 20 year 1990 on water quality standard. Keyword: filtration, purification, standard water.

Effect of a 12-week remote exercising program (ExIOnc) on quality of life and symptoms of older patients with cancer in Brazil.

1623 Background: Leading organizations, including ASCO, recommend physical activity for patients with cancer. However, numerous barriers hinder patients from maintaining regular physical activity, particularly among older adults, who have lower participation in exercise programs. This study aims to evaluate the effects of a 12-week supervised remote exercise program on the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of older patients with cancer (aged ≥65) undergoing treatment in Brazil. Methods: This was a single-arm pilot study evaluating a remote physical activity program which combined supervised and remote exercise. Eligible patients were contacted through WhatsApp for the initial assessment and received guidance on weekly exercises. The Vedius platform was employed to demonstrate proper home exercise techniques. The prescribed regimen consisted of 3-5 hours per week (4-6 days a week), encompassing both resistance and aerobic exercise. Outcome measures included overall HRQOL (FACT-G, scale 0-108) and symptom assessment (ESAS). Assessments were conducted at baseline and after 12 weeks. Descriptive statistics were calculated, and linear mixed models were employed to analyze changes from before to after the intervention. Results: Out of 46 approached patients, 41 patients were enrolled, with a median age of 70 years (range 65-88). Of the participants, 56.1% were female, 70.7% were white, and 58.2% were married, with 53.5% holding a college degree. The most common cancer types were breast (26.8%), genitourinary (22.0%), and lung (17.1%), all diagnosed at advanced stages. A significant improvement was observed in overall HRQOL (MT1=83.2 to MT2=94.4, P=0.001). Improvements were also seen in the severity of various symptoms, including pain (MT1=1.6 to MT2=0.7, P=0.001), fatigue (MT1=3.8 to MT2=1.3, P=0.001), nausea (MT1=0.8 to MT2=0.2, P=0.01), depression (MT1=2.6 to MT2=0.8, P=0.001), anxiety (MT1=3.2 to MT2=1.2, P=0.001), drowsiness (MT1=1.8 to MT2=0.4, P=0.001), and appetite (MT1=2.2 to MT2=0.6, P=0.001). Conclusions: This study demonstrates a positive impact of a 12-week remote physical activity program on HRQOL and symptom management for older patients with cancer, and set the stage for future randomized trials. Despite the challenges posed by cancer treatment, incorporating such programs into patient care could be an effective strategy to enhance overall well-being and mitigate treatment-related symptoms.

청년농업인4-H 활동 프로그램 개발을 위한 운영 실태 및 요구 분석

청년농업인4-H 활동 프로그램 개발을 위한 운영 실태 및 요구 분석

Impact of School-Based Physical Activities on Academic Performance in Canada

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the effect of martial arts training on self-esteem and discipline in youth in South Korea. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Studies show a strong link between school-based physical activities and academic performance. Regular exercise enhances cognitive function, attention, and memory, leading to improved classroom behavior and motivation. Schools with comprehensive physical activity programs report higher test scores and graduation rates. Integrating physical activity into the curriculum is crucial for fostering holistic student development and academic success. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social cognitive theory, brain plasticity theory &amp; self-determination theory may be used to anchor future studies on analyze the impact of school-based physical activities on academic performance. Educators should receive ongoing professional development to enhance their knowledge and skills in incorporating physical activities into the classroom. Policymakers should advocate for policy changes at the local, state, and national levels to prioritize physical education and physical activity in schools.

Effects of physical activity on infertility in reproductive females

ObjectivesTo explore the relationship between different types of physical activity and female infertility.MethodsThis study analyzed data from 2,796 female participants aged 18–44 years in the United States, obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database spanning the years 2013 to 2020. Multiple logistic regression analyses and generalized linear models were used to explore the relationship between different types of physical activity and infertility after adjusting for potential confounding factors.ResultsWe found a non-linear relationship between recreational activities and infertility with an inflection point of 5.83 h/week (moderate intensity), while work activities and traffic-related activities did not. On the left side of the inflection point, there was no significant association between recreational activity time and infertility (OR = 0.93, 95% CI: 0.86 to 1.02, P = 0.1146), but on the right side of the inflection point, there was a positive association between recreational activity time and the risk of infertility (OR = 1.04, 95% CI: 1.02 to 1.06, P = 0.0008).ConclusionsThe relationship between different types of physical activity and female infertility varies. We acknowledge the potential influence of confounding variables on this relationship. However, we have already adjusted for these potential variables in our analysis. Therefore, our findings suggest that appropriate recreational activity programs are essential for promoting reproductive health in women of reproductive age. Nevertheless, it is important to note that the observed association does not imply causality. Given the limitations of cross-sectional studies, further prospective cohort studies are needed to explore the causal relationship while accounting for additional confounding factors.

The Mediating Role of Exercise in Depression and Fatigue in Patients with Advanced Cancer.

This study explored the interconnections between sociodemographic elements, depression, fatigue, and exercise in patients suffering from incurable neoplasm, particularly emphasizing the mediating influence of exercise on the relationship between depression and fatigue This was a prospective, multicenter, observational study involving 15 hospitals across Spain. After three months of systemic cancer treatment, participants completed the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI), the Godin-Shephard Leisure-Time Physical Activity Questionnaire (GSLTPAQ) and the Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS) to measure levels of depression, fatigue, and exercise, respectively. A total of 616 subjects participated in this study. Activity levels differed markedly according to educational attainment, marital, and work status. There was a negative correlation between physical activity and depression, and a positive correlation between depression and fatigue (β = -0.18, and β = 0.46, respectively). Additionally, physical activity inversely influenced fatigue levels (β = 0.21). Physical activity served as a partial intermediary in the link between depression and fatigue among patients with advanced, unresectable cancer. Healthcare providers are urged to consider both the physical and emotional dimensions of cancer treatment, implementing physical activity programs to enhance overall patient quality of life and mental health.

Factors Influencing the Subjective Health and Physical Fitness Perceptions of Korean Adolescents

Background: Adolescence is an important period of growth and development. We aimed to analyz the factors affecting the subjective health and physical fitness perceptions of Korean adolescents. Methods: This cross-sectional study used data from 2,599 Korean adolescents who participated in the Korea National Life and Sports Surveys during 2020-2022, along with secondary data analysis. The study included frequency analysis of the demographic variables and chi-square tests to examine the relationship between the variables and subjective health and fitness perceptions. Multivariate logistic regression was also used to explore the factors affecting adolescent subjective perceptions. Results: The study revealed significant factors influencing health perceptions in Korean adolescents, including male gender, lack of regular physical activity, adequate rest, adherence to a consistent diet, and use of nutritional supplements (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion: Key factors, such as rest, diet, and nutritional supplements should be considered while developing policies that support adolescent health. Unfortunately, there has been a decline in the physical activity of adolescents in Korea. Therefore, a variety of physical activity programs that consider the characteristics of each student need to be developed to address adolescent health issues.

Outcomes for breast cancer survivors with metastatic disease in a physical activity program for medically underserved cancer survivors.

This study examined the effectiveness and feasibility of the Active Living After Cancer (ALAC) program for metastatic breast cancer (MBC) survivors. ALAC is a 12-session community-based program to help cancer survivors improve their physical functioning and quality of life through increased physical activity. ALAC participants with MBC (stage IV) were compared to survivors with early-stage breast cancer (stages I and II). The International Physical Activity Questionnaire, Godin Leisure-Time Physical Activity, 30-second sit-to-stand test, and PROMIS Global Health were administered at baseline and follow-up. Program satisfaction and retention were assessed at week 12. Repeated-measures mixed models were used to compare changes in outcomes between survivors with early-stage breast cancer and MBC. A total of 585 women (59.3 y ± 10.6), most of whom were Hispanic (54%) or non-Hispanic Black (22%), were included (early stage, n = 538; MBC, n = 47). After the ALAC program, a significant increase in physical activity (P < 0.001), improved physical and mental health T-scores (P < 0.001), and more sit-to-stand repetitions (P < 0.001) were observed for both survivors with early-stage breast cancer and MBC. Women with MBC showed significantly lower physical health (P = 0.037) and physical function (P = 0.010) compared to early-stage at baseline. The ALAC program increased physical activity and improved health-related quality of life and physical function among breast cancer survivors with both early-stage and metastatic disease. This study emphasizes the importance of incorporating physical activity interventions like the ALAC program into the comprehensive care of cancer survivors, including those with metastatic disease.

Nonpharmacological interventions to improve the cognitive function among persons with traumatic brain injury: A systematic review.

The systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of nonpharmacological interventions (NPIs) for improving cognitive function among persons with traumatic brain injury. A systematic review. This systematic review was registered in PROSPERO and followed the PRISMA guideline. PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, SpringerLink, Wiley Online Library, JSTOR, and Taylor & Francis were systematically searched for relevant articles of peer-reviewed studies published between 2008 and 2022. Two independent researchers conducted study selection, data extraction, and data quality assessment. Twenty-one studies met inclusion criteria, numbering a total of 757 participants. Six groups of NPIs were effective in improving cognitive functioning among persons with traumatic brain injury, including multimodal cognitive training, technology innovation, memory training, executive function training, physical activity, and sensory stimulation programs. Pooled evidence revealed that NPIs had a large effect on memory (d = 0.80, p < 0.05 to d = 2.03, p < 0.000), processing speed (d = 1.58, p < 0.05), and cognitive behavior (d = 1.63, p < 0.001 to d = 8.91, p 0.003). There was a medium effect on executive function (d = 0.5, p < 0.01 to d = 0.62, p < 0.05), attention (d = 0.5, p < 0.01), and intelligence (d = 0.57 to d = 0.59, p = 0.000). For visuospatial function and language, there was a significant increase post-intervention. Evidence from this systematic review indicates that NPIs, specifically the use of multimodal cognitive training and sensory stimulation programs, were effective in improving cognitive function outcomes among persons with traumatic brain injury, with medium to large effect sizes. Nonpharmacological interventions (NPIs) can enhance cognitive function in individuals with traumatic brain injury. These findings can guide healthcare professionals in clinical settings and support the development of technology applications for cognitive rehabilitation using NPIs.

Mitigation of Mangrove Forest Destruction in East Kalimantan Province

The present study was proposed to answer the problem of mangrove forest destruction through various policies of the East Kalimantan Regional government by using the literature study method followed up through Focus group discussion. As a result of this research, the implementation of policies carried out by the East Kalimantan Provincial Government can now be said to be successful, although there are still indicators that need to be improved, such as in the resource variable. Moreover, it was found that there were still problems that occurred with the management of the Mangrove Forest area in the previous government. There are recommendations from the results of this research to conduct a joint evaluation with the Central Government regarding the policy of private sector activity programmes, and there must be supervision after planting. Provisions in sectoral laws related to natural resources, apart from those that specifically regulate environmental protection as in Law 32/2009, are regulated in various forms.

ANALISIS IMPLEMENTASI KEBIJAKAN KETAHANAN KELUARGA ANTI NARKOBA PADA BADAN NARKOTIKA NASIONAL REPUBLIK INDONESIA

The aim of this research is to analyze the implementation of the Anti-Drug Family Resilience Policy at the National Narcotics Board of the Republic of Indonesia. This research uses qualitative methods by conducting interviews, observation and documentation. The data source in this research uses secondary data and primary data. The informants in this research are policy makers in the field of prevention and prevention practitioners who implement family resilience programs with the BNN at both the central and district/city levels. According to the findings of the analysis, the anti-drug family resilience at BNN RI was the issue that was prioritized. This was done as an activity program that adapted evidence-based prevention that had been tested internationally. Therefore, it was very appropriate if this was supported by optimizing the anti-drug family resilience policy. The National Narcotics Board of the Republic of Indonesia's anti-drug family resilience policy isn't yet perfect. One of the reasons is that there is not any statutory or policy regulations issued by BNN as the leading sector in efforts to prevent drugs through strengthening families.

Implementing regular physical activity for older individuals in the family strategy program using the RE-AIM framework to ensure feasibility and sustainability: EISI study protocol

The EISI study protocol aims to address the low participation rate in physical exercise programs among older individuals, emphasizing its significance as a non-pharmacological therapeutic approach for overall health and increased physical activity. The objectives include implementing physical activity (PA) and educational health programs in Jequié, Bahia, Brazil, targeting the Family Health Strategy population to enhance local physical activity levels among older individuals. The study also seeks to evaluate the program's feasibility, safety, and sustainability for large-scale implementation, along with assessing its impact on immune and inflammatory response biomarkers to the SARS-CoV virus, as well as physical-functional and brain health. Participants, aged 60 or above, will be divided into two groups: multicomponent exercise (MCE) and behavioral change interventions (BCI). The study employs a mixed-method approach, utilizing a non-randomized controlled short-term pathway model for a 4–8 weeks of pilot study and 16-week intervention impact assessment. Data collection encompasses various aspects such as sociodemographic information, mental health, physical fitness, fall risk, functional capacity, anthropometric measurements, hemodynamic assessment, habitual physical activity, and health-related quality of life. Blood and saliva samples are collected for cytokine and antibody biomarker analysis related to SARS-CoV immunity. Pre- and post-intervention evaluations for both groups will be conducted, with the hypothesis that MCE will yield more favorable responses compared to BCI. The study's holistic approach, including the assessment of feasibility, safety, and sustainability, aims to contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3 and SDG 9 b y promoting accessible and sustainable healthcare initiatives for older individuals. This research aligns with global efforts to enhance health and well-being, emphasizing the importance of regular exercise in the aging population.

#1884 Slowing kidney disease with weight loss: a randomised controlled feasibility study (SLOW-CKD Feasibility Study)

Abstract Background and Aims Obesity is a modifiable risk factor for chronic kidney (CKD) and progression to kidney failure. Low energy diets (LEDs) (800 to 1000 kcal/day) are an established weight management strategy and have demonstrated the ability to facilitate 10 to 15 kg weight loss and induce diabetes remission. However, the use of LEDs in adults with CKD is limited and there have been no randomised controlled trials (RCT) exploring their use. Before initiating a definitive trial, there is first a need to assess feasibility and safety. The primary aim of this study was to test the feasibility, acceptability and safety of a low energy diet and weight management program in individuals with obesity and CKD. Method The SLOW-CKD Feasibility Study, a 6-month multi-centre RCT in kidney outpatient clinics in Brisbane Australia, targeted adults with stages 1-3 CKD and a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg m2 with proteinuria (urinary albumin to creatinine ratio &amp;gt;3 mg/mmol). Participants wererandomised (1:1). The LED group followed a 3-month LED (800-1000 kcal/day) with meal replacements and low-calorie foods, with fortnightly dietitian support. Following this, participants entered a 3-month weight maintenance phase,emphasising healthy eating and commencing a physical activity program guided by an exercise physiologist. The usual care group was offered weight loss support through the kidney clinic, involving referral to a dietitian or weight loss program if agreeable. Primary outcomes included safety (study related serious adverse events [SAEs] and adverse events [aEs]) and feasibility (recruitment rate, retention rate, target weight loss). Secondary outcomes explored changes in anthropometry and clinical measures, patient-reported outcomes, and participant experiences through semi-structured interviews. Pre-defined safety and feasibility outcome criteria are presented in Table 1. Results Overall, 49 participants consented to participate (mean age 52.4 ± 3.8 years, 57% male). The incidence of SAEs was low and comparable between the two groups. There were two SAEs in the LED group (hypoglycaemia and acute kidney injury both requiring hospital admission) and one in the control (hypoglycaemia requiring hospital admission). The most common AE was hyperkalaemia with three episodes (&amp;gt;6.0 mmol/L) in each group. Two of the three feasibility criteria were met deeming the intervention feasible—see Table 1. Mean weight loss for the initial 3-month study period was 10.6 kg ± 5.1 kg in the LED group and 0.7 kg ± 4.3 for the usual care group (p = &amp;lt;0.00). Conclusion Our findings provide important preliminary evidence that LEDs are relatively safe, feasible, and demonstrate promising efficacy as a treatment option for obesity in adults with CKD. A definitive RCT exploring the use of LEDs to improve clinical outcomes and slow progression of CKD is warranted.

A Primary Care–Based Weight Navigation Program

Evidence-based weight management treatments (WMTs) are underused; strategies are needed to increase WMT use and patients' weight loss. To evaluate the association of a primary care-based weight navigation program (WNP) with WMT use and weight loss. This cohort study comprised a retrospective evaluation of a quality improvement program conducted from October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021. Data analysis was performed from August 2, 2022, to March 7, 2024. Adults with obesity and 1 or more weight-related condition from intervention and control sites in a large academic health system in the Midwestern US were propensity matched on sociodemographic and clinical factors. WNP, in which American Board of Obesity Medicine-certified primary care physicians offered weight-focused visits and guided patients' selection of preference-sensitive WMTs. Primary outcomes were feasibility measures, including rates of referral to and engagement in the WNP. Secondary outcomes were mean weight loss, percentage of patients achieving 5% or more and 10% or more weight loss, referral to WMTs, and number of antiobesity medication prescriptions at 12 months. Of 264 patients, 181 (68.6%) were female and mean (SD) age was 49.5 (13.0) years; there were no significant differences in demographic characteristics between WNP patients (n = 132) and matched controls (n = 132). Of 1159 WNP-eligible patients, 219 (18.9%) were referred to the WNP and 132 (11.4%) completed a visit. In a difference-in-differences analysis, WNP patients lost 4.9 kg more than matched controls (95% CI, 2.11-7.76; P < .001), had 4.4% greater weight loss (95% CI, 2.2%-6.4%; P < .001), and were more likely to achieve 5% or more weight loss (odds ratio [OR], 2.90; 95% CI, 1.54-5.58); average marginal effects, 21.2%; 95% CI, 8.8%-33.6%) and 10% or more weight loss (OR, 7.19; 95% CI, 2.55-25.9; average marginal effects, 17.4%; 95% CI, 8.7%-26.2%). Patients in the WNP group were referred at higher rates to WMTs, including bariatric surgery (18.9% vs 9.1%; P = .02), a low-calorie meal replacement program (16.7% vs 3.8%; P < .001), and a Mediterranean-style diet and activity program (10.6% vs 1.5%; P = .002). There were no between-group differences in antiobesity medication prescribing. The findings of this cohort study suggest that WNP is feasible and associated with greater WMT use and weight loss than matched controls. The WNP warrants evaluation in a large-scale trial.

The Role of Microbiological and Radiological Tests in the Diagnosis of Pulmonary Tuberculosis in the Conditions of the Pandemic COVID-19

The impact of the methods for diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis is perceived in the fastness in setting up the actions aiming to isolate the source infection and to treat it in due time. Objective — to establish the role of microbiological and radiological tests in diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis in actual epidemiological context of tuberculosis associated to the COVID-19 pandemics (2020—2022). Materials and methods. It was conducted a case-control study which included 172 patients diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis, as new case, distributed in two groups, the 1st group — 116 patients diagnosed through the radiological methods and the 2nd group — 56 patients, diagnosed through microbiological methods. Results and discussion. The main peculiarities of patients diagnosed with tuberculosis regardless of methods of investigation were male gender, low social and economic state and high prevalence of the harmful habits with impact on the health state. Patients diagnosed through the microbiological methods were residing more frequently in rural areas, with low accessibility to healthcare services, identified through a long-evolving symptomatology, late detection, expressiveness of the clinical symptomatology and a high rate of poor treatment outcome. Recommendations were established that systematic screening for tuberculosis should be performed in all social-vulnerable groups, fortified by the individualised therapeutic approach. Conclusions. The case-control study identified that the main peculiarities of patients diagnosed with tuberculosis regardless of methods of investigation were male gender, low social and economic state and high prevalence of harmful habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption. Patients diagnosed through the microbiological methods were residing more frequently in rural areas, with low accessibility to healthcare services, concluded through a long-lasting symptomatology, late detected forms of tuberculosis, high expressiveness of the clinical symptomatology and severe evolution, followed by a high rate of poor treatment outcomes, including death. Patients diagnosed through the radiological methods were more frequently from urban sectors, from tuberculosis clusters, with comorbidities with high risk for tuberculosis sickness, such as HIV infection, diabetes and mental disorders which constituted included in active screening programs. The lack of positive microbiological assay results was the consequence of the unilateral and limited forms of pulmonary and determined a higher rate of treatment success rate.