Group Interaction Effect Research Articles

Exploring the Impact of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization on Functional Measures and Quality of Life in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a prevalent disabling condition characterized by pain, stiffness, and functional limitations, significantly impacting quality of life, particularly among older adults. Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is a technique that has shown promise in reducing pain and increasing the range of motion. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effects of IASTM on functional measures and quality of life in KOA patients. Methods: Thirty participants with unilateral KOA were randomized into IASTM and sham groups. The intervention consisted of four sessions over two weeks, combining IASTM with exercise therapy. Functional performance was assessed using the 6-minute walking test (6MWT) and the timed up and go test (TUG). Quality of life was evaluated using the 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36) and the Lequesne Algofunctional Index (LAI) Questionnaires. Results: A mixed ANOVA revealed significant improvements in functional performance in both groups after treatment in the 6MWT (P < 0.001) and TUG (P = 0.003) tests. Significant improvements were observed in the SF-36 subgroups for physical functioning (P = 0.002), role limitations due to physical problems (P < 0.001), energy/vitality (P < 0.001), pain (P < 0.001), and total score (P < 0.001). There was also a significant time*group interaction effect for role limitations due to emotional problems (P = 0.005), with the IASTM group showing improvement after treatment while the sham group experienced a decline. The LAI questionnaire also indicated significant improvements in both groups (P < 0.001) after treatment. Conclusions: Both IASTM and sham interventions, combined with exercise therapy, led to improvements in functional measures and quality of life. However, the IASTM group exhibited a more pronounced positive trend in the 6MWT and TUG tests, as well as a significant interaction effect for emotional role limitations. These findings suggest that while exercise alone can improve function and quality of life, the addition of IASTM may further enhance these outcomes, supporting its integration into KOA management strategies to improve activities of daily living and overall quality of life.

The relationship between walking speed, step parameters, and margins of stability in individuals after stroke

BackgroundIndividuals after stroke walk with different step parameters and consequently with different margins of stability compared to able-bodied peers. These differences might be a side effect of lower preferred walking speeds or primary limitations in regulating step parameters and margins of stability after stroke. MethodsTwenty-eight individuals after stroke (separated into more impaired and less impaired based on speed) and fourteen able-bodied peers completed five walking trials on an instrumented treadmill at 70 %, 85 %, 100 %, 115 %, and 130 % of their preferred speed. Center of pressure data were used to calculate stride frequency, stride length, step width and margins of stability in mediolateral and anteroposterior direction. Generalized estimation equations were used to analyze the (interaction) effects of group, speed, and most versus least affected leg on these parameters. FindingsWhen controlled for speed, all individuals after stroke walked with higher stride frequencies (P < 0.001) and shorter stride lengths (P < 0.001) than able-bodied peers. Less impaired individuals walked with larger step widths than able-bodied peers (P < 0.001). The interaction effect of group and speed suggested that individuals after stroke showed higher increases in stride length with increasing speed than able-bodied peers. When controlled for speed, mediolateral margins of stability were larger in less impaired individuals compared to able-bodied peers, but otherwise, margins of stability did not differ between groups. Only minor differences between the most and least affected leg were observed. InterpretationDifferences in step parameters between individuals after stroke and able-bodied peers seem independent of walking speed and function to enhance gait stability.

Exploring the effects of a 12-Week functional training program on fundamental motor skills for primary school children aged 6–7

BackgroundFundamental motor skills (FMS) are the foundation of children’s movement. Professional guidance and customised training methods are essential to effectively acquiring and mastering fundamental motor skills. Recently, functional training has gained widespread popularity and is associated with numerous benefits. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the effect of functional training on fundamental motor skills in children aged 6–7. MethodsThis study was conducted at a primary school. One hundred children were randomly selected from 382 who met the criteria and allocated to a functional training or regular physical education group, with 25 boys and 25 girls in each group. The research program lasted 12 weeks, with two weekly sessions, each lasting 40 min. The assessment of fundamental motor skills utilises the Test of Gross Motor Development and Pediatric Balance Scale. The pre-test and post-test data were analysed using generalised estimating equations. ResultsThe data analysis showed statistically significant differences between and within groups. There was a significant interaction effect of time and group on the gross motor quotient (x2 = 51.603, p = 0.001), locomotor subtest standard scores (x2 = 22.259, p = 0.001), object control subtest standard scores (x2 = 29.283, p = 0.001), and PBS balance scores (x2 = 24.881, p = 0.001). Furthermore, the main effect of time was significant for the four variables. However, the main effects of the group varied. Significant effects of the group were observed for the gross motor quotient (x2 = 8.662, p = 0.003) and object control subtest standard scores (x2 = 7.471, p = 0.006), but not for locomotor subtest standard scores (x2 = 2.558, p = 0.110) or PBS balance scores (x2 = 1.188, p = 0.276). Discussion and ConclusionsFunctional training can positively impact the development of fundamental motor skills in children aged 6–7, demonstrating greater effectiveness than regular physical education courses. These findings provide evidence that incorporating functional training into early childhood physical education can be an effective intervention for enhancing the development of fundamental motor skills.

The effect of Baduanjin on body mass and body composition of college students: A randomized controlled trial.

Previous studies have also found that Baduanjin training can improve health-related physical fitness in young adults. However, it is unclear whether Baduanjin training can improve body mass and body composition in young adults. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the Baduanjin training on body mass and body composition in college students. This was a single-center, randomized controlled trial comparing 12 weeks of Baduanjin exercise training group (BEG) at a frequency of 60 minutes per day, 4 days per week with no special exercise control group (CG) on the health-related physical fitness in college students. Body mass and body composition were assessed using the body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, and Inbody 720 devices. A total of 93 college students (56 in the BEG and 37 in the CG) completed 2 body composition assessments and were included in the analysis. A mixed linear model was used to analyze the effect of the Baduanjin exercise intervention. After 12 weeks of intervention, the body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio in the BEG were significantly lower than that in the CG (P =.007 and P =.028) with a moderate effect size (Cohen d = 0.584 and 0.474) and a significant interaction effect of group by time (P =.007 and.028). The fat mass indicators of body composition including percent body fat, body fat mass, and body fat mass of both arms, both legs and trunk in the BEG were significantly lower than those in the CG (all P <.05), with a moderate effect size (Cohen d from 0.452 to 0.624) and a significant interaction effect of group by time (all P <.05); no significant differences were found in the total body composition indicators and the fat-free mass indicators of body composition between the 2 groups. Regular Baduanjin exercise training may be beneficial for improving body composition in young adults.

Group interaction effect on breaking wave forces on a vertical pile: Experimental tests and predictive models

Pile groups are extensively utilized as supports for many coastal structures, such as bridges, jetties, and oil production platforms. The problem of understanding the interaction effects within pile groups and predicting the breaking wave forces on them is considered in this paper, using experimental tests and machine learning-based predictive modeling. The restriction of previous studies on this important engineering problem is that the pile group arrangements considered are limited. Prediction methods are therefore developed only for specific pile group arrangements and do not incorporate the effect of the incident wave direction. In this study, to partially overcome this limitation, an extensive experimental investigation is conducted on 70 different pile group arrangements under six breaking wave conditions. Three pile group coefficients, characterized by the total, quasi-static, and dynamic forces, are introduced for a thorough assessment of the interaction effects within the pile group. First, the pile group coefficients for three basic arrangements (tandem, side-by-side, and staggered) are evaluated. The results reveal a sheltering effect in the tandem arrangement and an amplification effect in the side-by-side arrangement. However, the forces on the measured pile in the staggered arrangement resemble those on the isolated pile, with neither significant sheltering nor amplification effects observed. Then, the results for all arrangements highlight the significant effect of wave direction on the pile group coefficients for small inter-pile spacing. Finally, different machine learning algorithms are adopted to develop predictive models for the group coefficients. The XGBoost model demonstrates superior accuracy for predicting the total and quasi-static force coefficients, while the dynamic force coefficient remains challenging to predict accurately due to its stochastic nature.

Real-Time Vibration Feedback from a Smartphone Application Reduces Sedentary Time but Does Not Increase Physical Activity Among Medical Students.

Background: Sedentary behavior is associated with various adverse health outcomes. Medical students often experience high academic demands, leading to increased sedentary time. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a mobile app providing real-time feedback in reducing total sedentary time and prolonged sedentary bouts and in promoting physical activity among medical students. Methods: Seventy-seven medical students from Jazan University (mean age: 21.4 years; range: 20-25 years) participated in this study. Participants were assigned to either the control group (n = 40) or the intervention group (n = 37). The intervention group received real-time vibration feedback via a mobile app, prompting movement every 30 min of sedentary time, while the control group received no intervention. Sedentary behavior and physical activity levels were assessed using the Activities Completed Over Time in 24 h. Paired t-tests were conducted to examine within-group changes, and a two-way ANOVA was used to assess the interaction effect of time and group on sedentary time and physical activity. Results: After six weeks, the intervention group showed significant within-group reductions in their total sedentary time of 1.82 h (p = 0.01) and prolonged sedentary bouts of 1.91 h (p = 0.001), while the control group had no significant changes. Physical activity levels did not significantly change within either group. The two-way ANOVA revealed that there was no significant change over time between the two groups in their total sedentary time F (1, 75) = 1.590, p = 0.21, prolonged sedentary bouts F (1, 75) = 3.499, p = 0.06, or physical activity F (1, 75) = 0.565, p = 0.45. Conclusions: Real-time feedback from mobile apps resulted in significant within-group reductions in total and prolonged sedentary time among medical students in the intervention group. Low-cost mobile apps providing real-time feedback may be an effective intervention for reducing sedentary behavior among medical students, potentially improving their health and well-being.

12669 Oxytocin Levels Are Associated With Inhibitory Control In Young Female Individuals With A Low-weight Eating Disorder

Abstract Disclosure: M. Wronski: None. F. Plessow: None. M. Rogers: None. D.L. Kahn: None. E.R. Golden: None. M. Slattery: None. J.J. Thomas: None. L.M. Holsen: None. K.T. Eddy: None. M. Misra: None. E.A. Lawson: None. Background: Preclinical and clinical evidence suggests that the hypothalamic neuropeptide oxytocin (OXT) impacts inhibitory control and reward processing. In male adults with overweight or obesity, we showed that exogeneous OXT increases inhibitory control and neural activation in associated brain regions while attenuating activation in reward-related brain regions. Low-weight eating disorders (LWEDs) are characterized by decreased endogenous OXT levels, altered inhibitory control over behavior, and reduced responsiveness to rewards. However, links between these characteristics are unknown in LWEDs. Here, we examined associations between endogenous OXT levels and performance in behavioral tasks requiring inhibitory control and reward-based decision-making in individuals with a LWED compared to healthy controls (HC). Methods: In 58 females with a LWED and 39 female HC (aged 11-23 years), we measured serum OXT concentrations fasting and 30, 60, and 120 minutes after a 400-kcal standardized meal and calculated OXT area under the curve (AUC) as a composite measure. After the meal (following the 60-minute blood draw), participants completed a Go/NoGo Task to assess inhibitory control over behavior and a monetary Delay Discounting Task to assess reward-based decision-making. We analyzed associations between OXT AUC and behavioral outcomes across groups using robust linear models with main effects of group (LWED vs. HC) and OXT AUC, the interaction effect of group*OXT AUC, and covariates age and body mass index (BMI) z score. Results: Per study design, individuals with a LWED had a lower BMI z score (t=10.90, p&amp;lt;0.001, d=2.00), whereas groups did not differ in OXT AUC (t=1.20, p=0.232, d=0.24). For the Go/NoGo Task, we observed a group effect on NoGo error rate (higher values indicating lower inhibitory control; NoGo error rate: adj. mean [std. error] LWED 35.6 [2.7] % &amp;gt; HC 26.6 [3.4] %) as well as an interaction effect of group*OXT AUC, independent of age and BMI z score (t=2.73, p=0.008, d=0.72). Follow-up simple main effects analysis within each group revealed a significant negative relationship of OXT AUC and NoGo error rate in individuals with a LWED (t=-2.42, p=0.022, d=0.85), while this relationship emerged as nonsignificant but trend-level positive in HC (t=1.73, p=0.099, d=0.74). We did not detect group (t=0.69, p=0.493, d=0.17) or group*OXT interaction (t&amp;lt;0.01, p=0.996, d&amp;lt;0.01) effects on delay discounting rate. Conclusions: In females with a LWED, lower OXT exposure around a meal correlated with lower inhibitory control over behavior. In HC, however, our data yielded a trend of opposite directionality. Links between OXT exposure and reward-related decision-making were absent across groups. Our findings indicate potential relevance and mechanistic involvement of OXT in inhibitory control in LWEDs that warrants further causal investigations. Presentation: 6/3/2024

Effects of a randomized controlled trial of mobile app-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy on depressive symptoms and process variables in college students - Focusing on the mediating effects of acceptance and cognitive defusion-

As social costs rise due to the increasing prevalence of depression, there is a growing emphasis on cost-effective and evidence-based psychotherapeutic methods. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for depression is an effective approach that reduces depressive symptoms and helps prevent recurrence by enhancing psychological flexibility. This study developed a mobile app-based ACT and tested its effectiveness for college students with depression. Eighty college students with depression were randomly assigned to either a treatment group (n = 41) or a control group (n = 39). The treatment group received mobile app-based ACT for 4 weeks, the control group waited without treatment. The scores from pre, post, and follow-up assessments were compared between the two groups. Significant interaction effects of time and group were found for depression and anxiety symptoms, as well as for treatment process variables such as acceptance, inflexibility, defusion, values, commitment, and mindfulness. Acceptance and cognitive defusion emerged as significant mediators in the impact of mobile app-based ACT on depression. The mobile app-based ACT effectively reduced depression and improved treatment process variables, demonstrating its cost-effectiveness. The study also discusses the implications, limitations, and directions for future research.

Promotion of basic motor competencies through pupils’ ability, knowledge, and willingness. Effects of an 8-week PE program in 2nd and 4th grade.

As soon as children want to participate in movement and sports culture, they need basic motor competencies (BMC). Hence, the acquisition of BMC in primary school physical education is a core objective in primary school curricula. However, a considerable part of European pupils do not develop sufficient BMC during primary school years (Wälti et al., 2022). At the same time, Ruin and Stibbe (2014) highlight a lack of concrete methods for implementing competence-oriented curricula. Therefore, methodological considerations and interventions that allow conclusions about the design of PE programs to promote BMC are needed. This study examined the immediate and long-term effects of an 8-week competence-oriented PE program on 2nd, and 4th graders’ BMC. In the German paradigm of competence (Klieme et al., 2008) promoting competence, understood as ability, knowledge, and willingness is one of the main goals of physical education (Amesberger &amp; Stadler 2014). Aligned with competence paradigm, the PE program targeted motor-activity (ability) through movement-games. It also enhanced self-regulation (willingness) and cognitive engagement (knowledge) by offering movement-tasks of varying difficulty, which student could choose and evaluate using self-assessment forms. In a quasi-experimental study, 116 2nd, and 110 4th graders were assigned to an intervention and control group and BMC were tested with MOBAK-1-2 respectively MOBAK-3-4 (Herrmann, 2018) pre, post, and follow-up in overall-competence, self-movement and object-movement. Repeated measured ANCOVAs (sex and BMI as covariates) revealed strong time effects (e.g. η2 = .31, p &lt; .001 for overall-competence in 2nd grade), small to moderate time*group interaction effects (e.g. η2 = .08, p &lt; .01 for object-movement in 2nd grade) and medium group effects (e.g. η2 = .11, p &lt; .001 for self-movement in 2nd grade) for overall-competence, self-movement, and object movement. Merely for object-movement in 4th grade, only a strong time effect (η2 = .24, p &lt; .001) was observed, with no interaction or group effects, indicating that all 4th graders developed object-movement during study period independent of the study group. The results suggest that a competence-based PE program can promote BMC in primary school. Nevertheless, the lack of the interaction effect on object-movement in 4th grade shows that these effects are not general. Future studies should continue to investigate the effects of competency-oriented PE programs on pupil’s competence development. References Amesberger, G., &amp; Stadler, R. (2014). Bildungsstandard für Bewegung und Sport. Handreichung für kompetenzorientiertes Lernen und Lehren [Educational standard for physical activity and sport. Handout for competence-orientated learning and teaching]. Bundesministerium für Unterricht, Kunst und Kultur (BMUKK). Herrmann, C. (2018). MOBAK 1-4. Test zur Erfassung Motorischer Basiskompetenzen für die Klassen 1-4 [MOBAK 1-4. Test to assess basic motor skills for grades 1-4]. Hogrefe. Klieme, E., Hartig, J., &amp; Rauch, D. (2008). The concept of competence in educational contexts. In J. Hartig, E. Klieme, &amp; D. Leutner (Ed.), Assessment of competencies in educational contexts. (pp. 3-22). Hogrefe &amp; Huber. Ruin, S., &amp; Stibbe, G. (2014). Zum Bildungs- und Erziehungsverständnis in kompetenzorientierten Lehrplänen [On the understanding of education and upbringing in competence-orientated curricula]. Sportunterricht, 63(6), 168-173. Wälti, M., Sallen, J., Adamakis, M., Ennigkeit, F., Gerlach, E., Heim, C., Jidovtseff, B., Kossyva, I., Labudová, J., Masaryková, D., Mombarg, R., De Sousa Morgado, L., Niederkofler, B., Niehues, M., Onofre, M., Pühse, U., Quitério, A., Scheuer, C., Seelig, H., Vlček, P., … Herrmann, C. (2022). Basic motor competencies of 6- to 8-year-old primary school children in 10 European countries: A cross-sectional study on associations with age, sex, body mass index, and physical activity. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, Article 804753. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.804753

Effect of central dialysis fluid delivery system on markers of inflammation in hemodialysis patients

BackgroundThe utilization of ultrapure dialysate has been shown to decrease dialysate contamination and mitigate inflammatory responses. The central dialysate delivery system (CDDS) has the potential to attain a level of purity similar to ultrapure dialysate. Nevertheless, there is limited research examining the impact of CDDS on inflammation in comparison to single-patient dialysis fluid delivery system(SPDDS). This study aims to investigate the effects of CDDS utilizing ultrapure dialysate on ameliorating the microinflammatory state in hemodialysis patients.MethodA retrospective cohort clinical study enrolled a total of 125 hemodialysis patients, with 58 patients from the CDDS unit and 67 patients from the SPDDS unit. Each participant was monitored for a period of 6 months, and the repeated measurement data was analyzed using a generalized linear mixed models (GLMM).ResultsThe average age of the studty cohort was 56.22 ± 12.64 years. The GLMM analysis showed a significant time*group interaction effect on hs-CRP changes over the follow-up period (β = -1.966, FTime* CDDS group = 13.389, P < 0.001). A linear mixed model analysis with random slope showed that a different slope was observed between CDDS group and SPDDS group (βCDDS =—0.793; βSPDDS = 0.791), indicating a decreased hs-CRP levels in CDDS group, while increased in the SPDDS group over the follow-up period. However, no significant time*group interaction effect were observed on albumin and β2-microglobulin levels during follow-up period(β2-microglobulin: β = -0.658, FTime* CDDS group = 1.228, P = 0.269; albumin: β = 0.012, FTime* CDDS group = 1.429, P = 0.233).ConclusionUsing ultrapure dialysate in the CDDS is associated with an improvement in hs-CRP levels compared to standard dialysate, which might confer long-term clinical advantages.

Real-World Outcomes of a Digital Behavioral Coaching Intervention to Improve Employee Health Status: Retrospective Observational Study.

Chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) account for major disability and premature mortality worldwide, with low- and middle-income countries being disproportionately burdened. Given the negative impact of NCDs on employee performance and work productivity, there is a rising need for stakeholders to identify effective workplace solutions that can improve employee health outcomes. As the workplace becomes more dispersed post pandemic, digital behavioral coaching offers a scalable, personalized, and cost-effective method of managing chronic disease risk factors among employees. This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the impact of a digital behavioral coaching program on year-to-year changes in employee health status in a cohort of Indonesian employees. This retrospective real-world exploratory analysis of secondary health data followed 774 employees of an Indonesian company who completed company-sponsored health screenings between 2021 and 2022 and were given access to Naluri (Naluri Hidup Sdn Bhd), a holistic digital therapeutics platform offering digital behavioral health coaching and self-help tools. Participants were retrospectively classified as those who received active coaching (n=177), passive coaching (n=108), and no coaching (n=489). Linear mixed-effects models were used to evaluate the year-to-year changes in health outcomes across the 3 employee groups, with post hoc analyses evaluating within-group differences between the 2 time points and between-group differences at follow-up. Significant time×group interaction effects were detected for body weight, BMI, hemoglobin A1c, low-density lipoprotein, total cholesterol, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Post hoc pairwise comparisons revealed significant improvements in hemoglobin A1c (mean difference [Mdiff]=-0.14, P=.008), high-density lipoprotein (Mdiff=+2.14, P<.001), and total cholesterol (Mdiff=-11.45, P<.001) for employees in the Active Coaching group between 2021 and 2022, with the other 2 groups reporting deteriorations in multiple health outcomes throughout the 2 time points. At follow-up, those who received active coaching between 2021 and 2022 reported significantly lower body weight (P<.001), BMI (P=.001), low-density lipoprotein (P=.045), and total cholesterol (P<.001) than the No Coaching group. This study demonstrates real-world outcomes and implications supporting the use of workplace digital behavioral coaching in improving employee health status. Given the rising burden of NCDs in the Southeast Asian region, our findings underscore the role that workplace digital health interventions can play in preventing and managing chronic disease risk factors.

Effects of Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Biofeedback in Pulmonary Indicators and HRV Indices Among Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exhibit reduced cardiac autonomic activity, linked to poor prognosis and exercise intolerance. While heart rate variability biofeedback (HRVB) can enhance cardiac autonomic activity in various diseases, its use in patients with COPD is limited. This study explored the impact of the HRVB on cardiac autonomic activity and pulmonary indicators in patients with COPD. Fifty-three patients with COPD were assigned to either the HRVB (n = 26) or the control group (n = 27), with both groups receiving standard medical care. The HRVB group also underwent one-hour HRVB sessions weekly for six weeks. All participants had pre- and post-test measurements, including the Six-Minute Walking Test (6MWT), lead II electrocardiogram (ECG) recording, Modified Medical Research Council Dyspnea Scale (mMRC), body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnea, and exercise capacity (BODE) index. ECG data were analyzed for heart rate variability (HRV) as an index of cardiac autonomic activity. A two-way mixed analysis of variances demonstrated significant interaction effects of Group × Time in pulmonary indicators and HRV indices. The HRVB group exhibited significant post-test improvements, with decreased mMRC and BODE scores and increased 6MWT distance and HRV indices, compared to pre-test results. The 6MWT distance significantly increased and mMRC significantly decreased at post-test in the HRVB group compared with the control group. This study confirmed the efficacy of HRVB as an adjunct therapy in patients with COPD, showing improvements in exercise capacity, breathing difficulties, and cardiac autonomic activity.

Vascular endothelial function and its response to moderate-intensity aerobic exercise in trained and untrained healthy young men

30 min of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per day is recommended, but the response and adaptation of endothelial function (EF) to this exercise remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to determine the changes in EF in endurance trained and untrained individuals before and after this exercise and to compare the differences between trained and untrained individuals. Twelve endurance-trained male college athletes (trained group) and 12 untrained male college students (untrained group) performed a 30-min run at an intensity of 60% VO2max. Brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD) was measured before exercise, 30 min and 60 min after exercise, and the following morning. Resting diameter and maximum diameter showed large time effects (p < 0.001, η2 = 0.533; p < 0.001, η2 = 0.502). Resting diameters at 30 and 60 min after exercise were higher than before exercise in both the untrained and trained groups (p < 0.05), and maximum diameters at 30 min after exercise were higher than before exercise in both the untrained and trained groups (p < 0.01). Resting diameter and maximum diameter also exhibited some group effects (p = 0.055, η2 = 0.157; p = 0.041, η2 = 0.176). Resting diameters and maximum diameters were higher in the trained group than in the untrained group before exercise (p < 0.05). FMD (%) showed no time, group, or time-group interaction effects. 30 min of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise can increase resting and maximal arterial diameters in both trained and untrained young men, but has no effect on FMD. Long-term endurance training has the potential to increase resting and maximal arterial diameters in young men, but not necessarily FMD.

Empirical insights into the interaction effects of groups at high risk of depression on online social platforms with NLP-based sentiment analysis

With the proliferation of digital technology and the increasing prevalence of social media, some users at high risk of depression have opted to seek solace, acceptance, and assistance in online communities. However, the extant research is deficient in terms of the segmentation of groups, particularly subcultural groups. By analyzing the “Super Hashtags” and “Tree Hole” groups on Sina Weibo from January to March 2023 using a crawler and the ERNIE 3.0-Base model for sentiment analysis, the study uncovers distinct sentiment profiles and interaction patterns, revealing significant correlations between interaction metrics and sentiment levels. The findings indicate that while there are no significant differences in sentiment levels between the two communities, the “Tree Hole” community exhibits greater sentiment variability. Moreover, the study identifies that interaction behaviors are closely linked to sentiment states, emphasizing the importance of understanding the complex dynamics between online interactions and mental well-being. These insights contribute to the development of more effective support mechanisms within online platforms for individuals at risk of depression.

Effects of E-learning for Postural Education in Music Students (El-Poems): A Randomized Controlled Trial Among Iranian Adolescents.

Musculoskeletal (MSK) pain represents a major health problem facing music students worldwide. There is some evidence that posture education could be effective in reducing pain and disability among music students. The aim of this study was to assess the effective¬ness of E-learning for posture education in music students (El-Poems) on the presence of MSK pain, MSK pain intensity, as well as postural behavior. This was a matched-pair, two-arm parallel randomized controlled trial. Participants were music students (aged 12-18 yrs), randomized to intervention (n=134) and control (n=133) groups. The education program included four online sessions of the risks of incorrect posture and the necessary skill for correct postural behavior. A numeric rating scale (NRS) and the Nordic body map were used to evaluate the primary outcomes (MSK pain intensity, presence of MSK pain, and location). A secondary outcome (postural behavior) was assessed using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment checklist. Data were collected at two points, baseline and 6-month follow-up. ANOVA and Wilcoxon tests were performed to assess the time x group interaction effect. A total of 267 music students participated this study. Of these, 150 (56.2%) reported at least one symptomatic region over the previous week. A significant reduction was found from baseline to 6-month follow-up in mean scores in the intervention group for MSK pain prevalence (from 55.2% to 43.3%, Z=-2.71, P=0.004, etap2=0.07), MSK pain intensity (from 2.21±2.51 to 1.94±2.47, F263=32.27, P<0.001, etap2 = 0.11), and postural behavior (from 6.99±2.97 to 6.65±2.72, F263=27.35, P<0.001, etap2=0.09). The results demonstrated that the E-learning postural education program was associated with a decrease in the prevalence of MSK pain, a reduction in pain intensity, and improved postural behavior. Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials: reg. no. IRCT20180528039885N2, Nov-09-2021.

Effects of the dual-task training program for Korean older adults with mild cognitive impairment in community

This study was to examine the effects of dual-task training program on the cognitive function, physical functional status, self-efficacy, and life satisfaction of Korean older adults with mild cognitive impairment living in community. A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest control group design was used. The study participants were a total of 32 older adults with mild cognitive impairment over the age of 65 in the community, South Korea (Intervention: n = 16, Control: n = 16). The effects of time and group interactions between the intervention and control groups were statistically significant for the cognitive function (F=60.99, p < 0.001), physical function status (F=25.59, p < 0.001), self-efficacy (F=69.36, p < 0.001), and life satisfaction level (F=25.81, p < 0.001). The intervention group showed positive improvements in health-related outcome variables compared to the control group. The intervention showed beneficial effects immediately after 10 weeks applied and the effects were sustained at 14 weeks.

Effectiveness of a training program for caregivers of institutionalized older people on sedentary behavior, physical activity, and functionality of residents

Training caregivers of institutionalized older adults about an expanded care approach seems to be a way to maintain the resident's capabilities from the long-term care perspective. Objective: to analyze the effectiveness of training for caregivers of institutionalized older adults on sedentary behavior (SB), physical activity (PA) levels, and functionality of residents. Methods: Instructional training (four weeks) followed by the caregiver goal application period (12 weeks). Primary outcomes: Sedentary behavior (accelerometry) and functional mobility (Timed Up and Go). Secondary: physical function (SPPB), the performance of activities of daily living (Barthel Index), physical activity (accelerometer), handgrip strength, and anthropometric measurements. All analyses were conducted according to the intention-to-treat principle. Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) and the Bonferroni post-hoc test were applied for comparison between time points (pre and post-intervention) and groups (p&lt;0.05). Results: 49 older adults participated in the study, 25 of which comprised the intervention group (IG) and 24 the control group (CG). There was a group and time interaction effect, and the IG showed a reduction in SB (p=.017), increased light PA (p=.006), and total PA (p=.018). There were no changes in moderate PA and functionality. Although not statistically significant, the Barthel Index increased by 6.8 points in the IG, a clinically meaningful difference. Conclusion: The caregiver training strategy can be important in reducing SB and promoting participation in PA, which is relevant, considering the profile of the institutionalized older adult population. Keywords: Sedentary Behavior; Physical Functional Performance; Older Adults; Caregivers; Nursing home.

Nurse-led support impact via a mobile app for breast cancer patients after surgery: a quasi-experimental study (step 2).

Breast cancer patients may experience some health issues following surgery. Training patients about self-care plays a vital role in managing these symptoms. Mobile applications are a contemporary and appropriate approach to support patients about the potential symptoms following breast cancer surgery. This quasi-experimental study aimed to assess the impact of nurse-led support mobile application (NL-Mapp) delivered on breast cancer patients after surgery. Ninety participants were recruited, with 45 assigned to the intervention group and 45 to the control group. Subjects in the intervention group received NL-Mapp in addition to routine care, while those in the control group received only routine care over four weeks. The intervention included educational content on the postoperative period of breast cancer. Outcomes were assessed at baseline (M0), before discharge (M1), and one month after surgery (M2). The intervention group patients had significantly improved pain, affected shoulder functions, and anxiety owing to the effects of group, time, and group-time interaction. Body image and sexual adjustment were enhanced based on time and group-time interaction effects. During the follow-up period, experimental group patients experienced an improvement in body image and sexual adjustment, while those in the control group showed a decrease. This suggests that NL-Mapp may play a significant role in training breast cancer patients to manage their symptoms after surgery.

Effects of cycling training on balance and gait in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy: A randomized controlled study

Background and aimsAlthough aerobic exercises such as cycling and swimming are increasingly being recommended in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), their effect on gait and balance parameters is unclear. This study was aimed to investigate the effect of cycling training on balance and spatio-temporal gait parameters in children with DMD. MethodsAmbulant children (age range: 6.17–11.33 years) were randomly divided into two groups: home-based exercise training applied in the control group (n = 12) while 12 weeks of supervised submaximal lower extremity cycling training in addition to home-based exercise training performed in the study group (n = 11). Gait and balance parameters were evaluated using the GAITRite electronic walkway system and the Bertec Balance Check Screener™, respectively. Assessments were applied before and after 12 weeks of training. ResultsThe mean ages of the children in the study and control groups were 8.20 (SD:1.34) and 8.86 (SD:1.30) years, consecutively (p > 0.05). Considering the baseline values, the balance and spatio-temporal gait parameters of the children were similar except for the antero-posterior postural sway on the perturbed surface with eyes open (p > 0.05). There was a significant time x group interaction effect in favor of the study group for the antero-posterior postural sway of children on the normal surface with eyes open (F (1,58) = 12.62, p = 0.002). It was found that the antero-posterior postural sway on the normal surface with eyes open was improved in the study group within group comparison (F (1,10) = 8.50, p = 0.015). ConclusionsThe study showed that both the cycling and the home-based exercise training groups may maintain gait and balance parameters during the study. Adding a cycling training to the rehabilitation program can also provide additional contribution to improve antero-posterior balance.

Frequency-specific static and dynamic neural activity indices in children with different attention deficit hyperactivity disorder subtypes: a resting-state fMRI study.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood. Numerous resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) studies in ADHD have been performed using traditional low-frequency bands (0.01-0.08 Hz). However, the neural activity patterns of frequency subbands in ADHD still require further investigation. The purpose of this study is to explore the frequency-dependent characteristics and neural activity patterns of ADHD subtypes. We selected the ADHD combined type (ADHD-C, N = 25), ADHD inattentive type (ADHD-I, N = 26) and typically developing (TD, N = 28) children from the ADHD-200 Consortium. Based on the slow-5 band (0.01-0.027 Hz) and slow-4 band (0.027-0.073 Hz), we generated static and dynamic fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (fALFF) and regional homogeneity (ReHo) maps for each participant. A flexible-factorial analysis of variance model was performed on static and temporal dynamic rs-fMRI measurements within two subbands. Results revealed that the orbital-frontal gyrus, precuneus, superior temporal gyrus and angular gyrus were found to have obvious frequency band and group interaction effects. The intrinsic neural activity differences among three groups were more prominent in the slow-5 frequency band compared to the slow-4 band. In addition, the indices of significant interaction regions showed correlations with the progression of the disease and the features in slow-5 showed an advantageous diagnostic performance compared with those in slow-4. The results suggested the intrinsic neural activities of ADHD subtypes were frequency-dependent. The frequency-specific analysis of static and dynamic brain activity may provide a deeper understanding of neurophysiological dysfunction patterns in ADHD subtypes and provide supplementary information for assessing ADHD subtypes.