Intervention Group Research Articles

Bimanual Arm Trainer Versus Traditional Occupational Therapy Services in Upper Extremity Function.

Upper extremity (UE) dysfunction resulting from stroke significantly affects a person's ability to complete self-care activities, consequently diminishing functional independence. Effective interventions that improve UE function in persons with stroke are needed. To explore the effectiveness of the Bimanual Arm Trainer (BAT) compared with traditional occupational therapy treatment sessions (i.e., a control group) on improving UE function after acute ischemic stroke. Clinical trial, two-group, nonrandomized repeated-measures design. Inpatient rehabilitation facility. Twenty-seven persons with ischemic stroke and an Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) score ≤17. Minimum of three 10-min sessions on the BAT. ARAT, Upper Extremity Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Motor Recovery after Stroke (FMA-UE). Both the intervention and control groups showed significant improvement on the ARAT from evaluation to discharge (main effect of time: p = .02). There was no statistically significant main effect of group and no significant Time × Group interaction (p = .63). FMA-UE scores also improved significantly in the intervention group from evaluation to discharge (p < .001). FMA-UE scores were not available for the control group. Both the intervention and control groups demonstrated significant improvements in UE function from evaluation to discharge. There were no statistically significant differences between groups, indicating that the BAT results in similar improvements in UE function, as would be expected in traditional occupational therapy. Further research is warranted to examine additional BAT programs, use different outcome measures, and assess participants over a longer time span. Plain-Language Summary: The Bimanual Arm Trainer (BAT) is a novel device that can be used in occupational therapy to improve arm function among stroke patients. There is limited research on BAT's effectiveness in improving arm function among stroke patients. In an acute inpatient rehabilitation setting, we compared outcome scores of patients who received traditional occupational therapy services with those who also used the BAT. Both groups achieved significant improvements in arm function from evaluation to discharge. We found that the addition of the BAT interventions did not significantly affect the outcome measure scores for either group. We conclude that more research is needed to examine additional BAT programs, use different outcome measures, and assess participants over a longer period of time.

The Effect of Preconception Counseling According to the Theory of Planned Behavior with the Presence of the Spouse on Preconception Health Behaviors – A Training Trial Study

Background and Objective: Preconception care consists of biomedical, behavioral, and social services, along with health interventions, for women and couples before conception to improve their health status and reduce individual and environmental high-risk behaviors. This study aimed to assess to preconception counseling according to the theory of planned behavior with the presence of the spouse on preconception care behaviors. Materials and Methods: This study was an educational trial. The researcher randomly divided women into two intervention and control groups. The control group only received routine preconception care in the presence of the spouse. The intervention group, according to the theory of planned behavior, received 60-minute face-to-face counseling weekly sessions. The main outcomes of behavior were divided into two categories: screening tests and vaccinations and individual lifestyle (exercise, nutrition, and smoking). The questions also focused on men’s check-up tests. The data normality was analyzed by group, variable type, and measurement stage using the Shapiro-Wilk test and the skewness and kurtosis results. Levene's and Mochli's tests were used to check the homogeneity of variances and assumption of sphericity, respectively. Data were analyzed using independent t-tests, chi-square, repeated measures test, and SPSS 26 software. Result: The previous lifestyle behaviors were respectively 15.22 + 2.836, 15.49 + 2.769, and 16.84 + 1.894 before, immediately, and 4 weeks after the intervention in control, and 12.70 + 3.69, 15.53 + 3.02, and 16.60 + 2.73 in the intervention group, indicating no significant differences (p=0.08). However, the two groups significantly increased healthy lifestyles over time(p=0.001). The results also showed that the mean of test and vaccination was respectively 4.44 ± 2.99, 2.75 ± 6.42, and 2.49 ± 8.31 before, immediately, and 4 weeks after the intervention in control, and 4.09 + 3, 6.74 + 2.87, and 8.35 + 2.37 in the intervention group, indicating no significant differences(p=0.99). Conclusion: Since the presence of the husband during the training of women's pre-pregnancy care can affect their health behaviors regardless of the type of intervention, men are suggested to attend prepregnancy training and consultations for at least one session.

Examination of the effect of different techniques (demonstration, telesimulation and game-based training) in teaching the management of shoulder dystocia: A randomized controlled trial

BackgroundThis study evaluated the effect of demonstration, telesimulation and game-based training in teaching SD management for midwifery students. MethodsThis randomized controlled trial was completed with 123 participants. To collect data, the ‘Introductory Information Form’, ‘Self-efficacy Visual Analog Scale (VAS)’, ‘Shoulder Dystocia Skill Checklist’, and ‘Instructional Materials Motivation Survey (IMMS) were used. ResultsAfter the training, mean VAS scores of self-efficacy in diagnosing and intervening SD were higher in the telesimulation and demonstration groups, and mean VAS scores of self-efficacy in evaluating the postpartum mother and infant were higher in all intervention groups than in the control group (p < .001). There is a difference between the control group and all intervention groups in terms of total skill score in SD management (p < .001). Demonstration group's mean total score of MMS of students is higher than kahoot and control groups (p < .005). ConclusionIt was seen that all three methods were more effective than theoretical training in gaining SD management skills, but telesimulation was more effective than other methods.

Effects of a sequential square mat walking training program Fisior® on improving physical performance in older adults with Parkinson's disease: A pilot study

BackgroundThis study aimed to assess the efficacy of a 12-week functional walking training program utilizing a sequential square mat (Fisior® Mat) on the physical performance of older adults diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease (PD). MethodsParticipants, aged over 60 and diagnosed with mild to moderate PD, underwent progressive resistance training sessions lasting 30-40 minutes, three times a week, using the Fisior® sequential square mat. A randomized clinical trial was conducted with participants from a patient association. Multiple linear regression models were employed to analyze physical performance variation between intervention and control groups. ResultsTwenty-eight patients (14 in each group) participated, with improvements observed in total Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) score, chair test score, gait speed score, and balance test score. Participants in the intervention group showed significant improvement in chair and balance test scores compared to controls. ConclusionThe Fisior® sequential square mat program, as an adjunct to conventional outpatient physiotherapy, effectively enhances physical performance in older adults with PD.

Exercise Alters FBF1-Regulated Novel-miRNA-1135 Associated with Hydrolethalus Syndrome 1 in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Preliminary Study.

Hydrolethalus Syndrome 1 (HYDS1) is a rare disorder that occurs commonly in Finnish infants but originates from the mother. This autosomal recessive syn-drome is associated with the FBF1, which is usually expressed in the centriole. The FBF1 is an inheritable arthritis disease phenotype that includes rheumatoid arthritis. Several studies have investigated males with FBF1 mutation carriers also related to arthritis diseases, including those under rheumatoid arthritis conditions, which revealed the possibility of conferring the gene mutation to the next generation of offspring. Nonetheless, there are some complications of FBF1 mutation with target miRNAs that can be affected by exercise. The objective of this study was to evaluate the different exercises that can be utilized to suppress the FBF1 mutation targeted by Novel-rno-miRNAs-1135 as a biomarker and assess the effectiveness of exercise in mitigating the FBF1 mutation. Four exercise interventional groups were divided into exercise and non-exercise groups. One hundred microliter pristane-induced arthritis (PIA) was injected at the dorsal re-gion of the tails of rodents and introduced to the two PIA interventional groups. On day forty-five, all animals were euthanized, and total RNA was extracted from the blood samples of ro-dents, while polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was amplified by using 5-7 primers. Computeri-zation was used for miRNA regulation and analysis of target gene candidates. The novel-rno-miRNA-1135 was downregulated to FBF1 in exercise groups. The exercise was found to have no significant impact in terms of change in novel-rno-miRNA-1135 regulation of FBF1 expression. Exercise has no impact on novel-rno-miRNA-1135 targeted for FBF1 in autoso-mal recessive disease.

The effect of a cultural sensitivity education program on the intercultural sensitivity and compassion levels of Turkish nurses: A randomized controlled trial

AimThis study was performed to measure the effect of a cultural sensitivity education program in increasing Turkish nurses’ intercultural sensitivity and compassion levels. BackgroundIntercultural care encompasses compassion, an indispensable value of nursing care. The primary purpose of compassion is to ensure the well-being and welfare of the individual. DesignA parallel group randomized controlled trial. MethodsThe study was completed by 64 nurses, 32 in the intervention and 32 in the control groups. A Cultural Sensitivity Education Program was presented to the intervention group. Instruments were given to both groups before the intervention (pre-test), one week after the intervention (post-test) and three months later (follow-up test). Chi-square, independent sample t-test and two-way mixed-design variance analysis with Bonferroni Multiple Comparison Test were used to analyze the data. ResultsThe post-test and follow-up test mean scores of intercultural sensitivity and compassion of the intervention group after the intervention increased significantly compared with the control group. The intervention had a large effect size. ConclusionsThe study showed that the cultural sensitivity education program effectively increased the nurses’ intercultural sensitivity and compassion levels. Nurse managers could integrate education programs into the in-service education programs to improve the intercultural sensitivity and compassion levels of nurses.

Effectiveness of a resilience-building nursing intervention on psychological well-being in Arab community-dwelling older adults

BackgroundPsychological resilience plays a crucial role in the well-being of community-dwelling older adults. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a resilience-building nursing intervention on enhancing psychological well-being in this population. MethodsA randomized controlled trial was conducted with 84 community-dwelling older adults in Abha, Saudi Arabia. Participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (resilience-building nursing intervention) or the control group (standard care). Psychological resilience and quality of life were assessed using validated scales at baseline, post-intervention, and follow-up. ResultsThe intervention group showed significant improvements in psychological resilience (mean difference: +3.2, p = 0.001) and quality of life (mean difference: +5.4, p = 0.002) at follow-up compared to the control group. Factors influencing resilience included age, gender, socioeconomic status, health status, intervention exposure, community engagement, and living arrangements. ConclusionThe resilience-building nursing intervention effectively enhanced psychological well-being among community-dwelling older adults. Integrating such interventions into routine nursing care can promote holistic well-being and enable older adults to thrive within their communities.

Creative art therapy for postpartum depression： A systematic review and meta-analysis

This study aims to ascertain the effectiveness of creative art therapy (CAT) in alleviating symptoms of postpartum depression (PPD). A systematic review of all randomized controlled trials of CAT for PPD was conducted. Eight bibliographic databases, namely, PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang Database, VIP Database, and China Biomedical Literature Database were searched digitally, while Google Scholar database was searched manually for a comprehensive literature search. The search period is from the establishment of the database to May 2024. Literature screening and data extraction were conducted independently by two researchers, and the risk of bias in the included studies was evaluated. Finally, RevMan5.3 software and STATA 15.1 software were used for meta-analysis. Twelve studies, including 1633 patients, were included in this review. The results of our meta-analysis revealed that the intervention group was significantly better than the control group in depression [SMD=-0.882, 95% CI: -1.256 to -0.508, P ＜ 0.001][WMD=0.680, 95% CI: 0.407-0.953, P ＜ 0.001], anxiety [SMD=-0.712, 95% CI: -1.405 to -0.019, P=0.044], and personal state [WMD=-5.180, 95% CI: -5.869 to -4.491, P ＜ 0.001][SMD=0.388, 95% CI: 0.132-0.643, P=0.003], and the difference was statistically significant. Sensitivity analysis revealed that the above results were stable. CAT (music and creative games) was found to be effective in relieving depression, anxiety, and personal state in patients with PPD. Though CAT appears to be worthy of clinical application, more high-quality and large-sample studies are required to explore various aspects in the current context.

Development of a group-based behaviour change intervention for people with severe obesity informed by the social identity approach to health.

Interventions to support behaviour change in people living with chronic health conditions increasingly use patient groups as the mode of delivery, but these are often designed without consideration of the group processes that can shape intervention outcomes. This article outlines a new approach to designing group-based behaviour change interventions that prioritizes recipients' shared social identity as group members in facilitating the adoption of established behaviour change techniques (BCTs). The approach is illustrated through an example drawn from research focused on people living with severe obesity. A prioritization process was undertaken in collaboration with stakeholders, including behaviour change experts, clinicians, and a former patient to develop an evidence-based, group intervention informed by the social identity approach to health. Three phases of development are reported: (1) identification of the health problem; (2) delineation of intervention mechanisms and operationalization of BCTs for group delivery and (3) intervention manualization. The fourth phase, intervention testing and optimization, is reported elsewhere. A group-based behaviour change intervention was developed, consisting of 12 group sessions and 3 one-to-one consultations. The intervention aimed to support the development of shared social identity among recipients, alongside the delivery of evidence-based BCTs, to improve the likelihood of successful intervention and health outcomes among people living with severe obesity. A manualized intervention, informed by the social identity approach to health, was systematically designed with input from stakeholders. The development approach employed can inform the design of behavioural interventions in other health contexts where group-based delivery is planned.

Thoracic irrigation for prevention of secondary intervention after thoracostomy tube drainage for hemothorax: A Western Trauma Association multicenter study.

Retained hemothorax (rHTX) requiring intervention occurs in up to 20% of patients who undergo chest tube (TT) placement for a hemothorax (HTX). Thoracic irrigation at the time of TT placement decreases the need for secondary intervention in this patient group but those findings are limited because of the single-center design. A multicenter study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of thoracic irrigation. A multicenter, prospective, observational study was conducted between June 2018 and July 2023. Eleven sites contributed patients. Patients were included if they had a TT placed for a HTX and were excluded if: younger than 18 years, TT for pneumothorax, thoracotomy or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery performed within 6 hours of TT, TT >24 hours after injury, TT removed <24 hours, or death within 48 hours. Thoracic irrigation was performed at the discretion of the attending. Each hemithorax was considered separately if bilateral HTX. The primary outcome was secondary intervention for HTX-related complications (rHTX, effusion, or empyema). Secondary intervention was defined as: TT placement, instillation of thrombolytics, video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery, or thoracotomy. Irrigated and nonirrigated hemithoraces were compared using a propensity weighted analysis with age, sex, mechanism of injury, Abbreviated Injury Scale chest, and TT size as predictors. Four hundred ninety-three patients with 462 treated hemothoraces were included, 123 (25%) had thoracic irrigation at TT placement. There were no significant demographic differences between the cohorts. Fifty-seven secondary interventions were performed, 10 (8%) and 47 (13%) in the irrigated and non-irrigated groups, respectively ( p = 0.015). Propensity weighted analysis demonstrated a reduction in secondary interventions in the irrigated cohort (odds ratio, 0.56 (0.34-0.85); p = 0.005). This Western Trauma Association multicenter study demonstrates a benefit of thoracic irrigation at the time of TT placement for a HTX. Thoracic irrigation reduces the odds of a secondary intervention for rHTX-related complications by 44%. Therapeutic/Care Management; Level II.

Intrusive thoughts and memories in adolescents with major depressive disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Research in adults suggests that intrusive memories and intrusive thoughts (often referred to as intrusive cognitions) are common in members of the general population and are often seen in clinical disorders. However, little is known about the experience of intrusive cognitions in adolescents, particularly in adolescents with major depressive disorder (MDD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The present study sought to gather fundamental data on these phenomena (i.e., frequency, characteristics and appraisals of intrusive cognitions) in adolescents with MDD and PTSD. Adolescents aged 11-18 with MDD (n = 11), PTSD (n = 13) and a non-clinical control group (n = 25) completed structured interviews concerning their intrusive memories and thoughts. Intrusive thoughts were common in all three groups but were particularly frequently experienced in the MDD group. Intrusive memories were expectedly very common in the PTSD group but also experienced by over half of the adolescents with MDD. Both clinical groups reported more negative emotions in response to their intrusive thoughts or memories and appraised these cognitions more negatively than the non-clinical group. Intrusive memories and thoughts are common experiences in adolescents with MDD and PTSD. Emotions and appraisals relating to these cognitions may be targets for psychological intervention in this age group. However, small sample sizes limit the conclusions that can be drawn. Replication is needed with larger numbers of clinical participants.

Effects of variation in exercise training load on cognitive performances and neurotrophic biomarkers in patients with coronary artery disease.

This study compared the effects of linear (LP) and nonlinear (NLP) training periodization on cognitive functions, neurotrophic biomarkers [plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)], and cathepsin-B in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Forty-four patients with CAD reported to our laboratory on two occasions to undergo testing procedures before and after training sessions, and were then blindly randomized to NLP or LP for 36 training sessions. Visit 1 included blood samples and a maximal cardiopulmonary exercise testing to get maximal oxygen uptake (V̇o2peak). Visit 2 included cognitive functions assessment. Thirty-nine patients completed the study (LP: n = 20, NLP: n = 19), with no observed changes in cognitive performances after the training intervention in either group. IGF-1 concentration decreased in both groups (time-effect: P < 0.001), whereas BDNF concentration increased (time-effect: P < 0.05) without group interaction, and cathepsin-B did not change after the intervention. Associations were found between ΔV̇o2peak and ΔBDNF (R2 = 0.18, P = 0.04), and ΔIGF-1 and Δshort-term/working memory (R2 = 0.17, P = 0.01) in the pooled sample, with ΔIGF-1 and ΔBDNF accounting for 10% of the variance in Δshort-term/working memory. In the LP group, associations were found between ΔV̇o2peak and ΔBDNF (R2 = 0.45, P = 0.02), ΔBDNF and Δshort-term/working memory (R2 = 0.62, P = 0.004), ΔIGF-1 and Δshort-term/working memory (R2 = 0.31, P = 0.01), and ΔIGF-1 and Δexecutive function (R2 = 0.22, P = 0.04). This study indicates that linear and nonlinear training periodization led to an increase in BDNF, and a decrease in IGF-1, without change in cognitive function in individuals with stable CAD.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We used a novel and supervised iso-energetic training, integrating both moderate- and high-intensity aerobic exercises. Our findings indicate that greater variation in training load did not yield cognitive enhancements, although both protocols exhibited positive effects on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. Moreover, this study establishes a clear positive association between short-term and working memory and neurotrophic biomarkers. In addition, the independent predictive value of change in insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) on improvement in short-term and working memory highlight the close relationship between neurotrophic markers and cognition. Consequently, our results advocate for exercise training interventions targeting neurotrophic biomarkers to enhance cognitive function among individuals with coronary artery disease.

The Effect of the Mamanet Cachibol League on Psychosomatic Symptoms, Healthy Eating, and Social Support Among Arab Women: A Mixed-Methods Study.

The Mamanet Cachibol League (MCL), a community-based model developed in Israel, promotes physical activity and amateur team sports among women. Women in the Arab society have traditionally played few sports, especially team sports. The study aimed to assess the differences in health indicators and well-being, including psychosomatic symptoms, self-reported health, healthy eating habits, and social support, by comparing Arab women MCL participants and nonparticipants and examines benefits and motivations of community-based team sports for participants. An explanatory sequential mixed-methods approach included a cross-sectional study with intervention and control groups of Israeli Arab women aged 25-59years. Two-way analyses of covariance and multiple regression models evaluated demographics, well-being, healthy eating, and social support. Quality in-depth interviews with 30 MCL participants further explained the quantitative findings. MCL participants reported higher self-assessed health (P < .001) and decreased psychosomatic symptoms (P < .001) than nonparticipants. Healthier eating and well-being were also linked to MCL participation. The women sense of belonging improved social interactions, personal and professional happiness, and group dedication. MCL attendees felt empowered because the group advocated equality and valued women. Women said their involvement helped their families. Findings on the MCL community-based model suggest that team sports may serve as an effective tool for promoting health and well-being of Arab women and foster positive community relationships. The sense of belonging and personal empowerment derived from being part of a sports team may also contribute to positive mental health outcomes.

Protocol for a pilot study: Feasibility of a web-based platform to improve nutrition, mindfulness, and physical function in people living with Post COVID-19 condition (BLEND)

Individuals with Post COVID-19 condition (PCC), or long COVID, experience symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, and psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders that persist after recovery from COVID-19. These ongoing symptoms significantly compromise quality of life and diminish functional capacity and independence. Multimodal digital interventions targeting behavioural factors such as nutrition and mindfulness have shown promise in improving health outcomes of people with chronic health conditions and may be beneficial for those with PCC. The BLEND study (weB-based pLatform to improve nutrition, mindfulnEss, and physical function, in patients with loNg COVID) study is an 8-week pilot randomized controlled trial evaluating the feasibility of a digital wellness platform compared to usual care among individuals with PCC. The web-based wellness platform employed in this study, My Viva Plan (MVP)®, integrates a holistic, multicomponent approach to promote wellness. The intervention group receives access to the digital health platform for 8 weeks with encouragement for frequent interactions to improve dietary intake and mindfulness. The control group receives general content focusing on improvements in dietary intake and mindfulness. Assessments are conducted at baseline and week 8. The primary outcome is the feasibility of platform use. Secondary and exploratory outcomes include a between-group comparison of changes in body composition, nutritional status, quality of life, mindfulness, physical activity, and physical performance after 8 weeks. Findings of this study will inform the development of effective web-based wellness programs tailored for individuals with PCC to promote sustainable behavioural changes and improved health outcomes.

Effectiveness of End-of-Life Care Debriefing for Intensive Care Unit Nurses

Purpose : This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of end-of-life care debriefing as an intervention to reduce moral distress among intensive care unit (ICU) nurses after end-of-life care. Methods : This quasiexperimental study included 104 nurses (46 in the control group and 58 in the intervention group) working in three medical ICUs and two surgical ICUs. The data collection period was from September 1, 2017, to January 31, 2018, and end-of-life care debriefing in the intervention group was implemented over three months. Debriefings were conducted in groups or individually, with eight people participating in three or more debriefings. Comparisons of end-of-life care stress, end-of-life care attitudes, and wellness between the two groups were performed using an ANCOVA. Satisfaction with the debriefing was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results : End-of-life care stress and wellness did not differ between the groups, but there was a significant difference in end-of-life care attitudes. Overall, 50% of the participants were satisfied with the debriefing. Conclusion : Based on the finding that end-of-life care debriefing has a positive impact on ICU nurses’ attitudes toward end-of-life care, it can be used as an effective measure to reduce nurses’ moral distress. An institutional debriefing system should be established and operationalized.

Impact of rigorous muscle strength and power training on mobility among individuals with hip fractures: A randomized controlled trial

Patient’s mobility is not restored to pre-fracture levels until two years following a fractured hip. A persistent weakness in the muscles on the fractured leg may contribute to mobility limitations. A randomized controlled trial was conducted on individuals with hip fractures aged 60-85 to examine the effect of strength and power training twice a week on mobility. A random assignment was made between a 46-person intervention group and a 40 person control group. Over a period of twelve weeks, strength training was conducted twice per week under supervision. All measurements were conducted by a blinded measurer. We assessed mobility by timing the time it takes to climb stairs, get up from a chair, and walk. To analyze the data, we used intention-to-treat analysis. A study of efficacy was conducted for subjects who adhered to training more than 50% of the time (n = 40). 4 of the controls did not show a statistically significant improvement in mobility (p &lt;0.001). Training had no significant effect on walking time or TUG. During the efficacy analysis, the average chair rise time for the exercise group improved by 5.4% (p &lt; 0.005). The results of intense muscle strength and power training were observed in self-reported improvements in mobility. Participants with higher training compliance had an improved chair rise rate.

A Mediterranean dietary pattern intervention does not improve cardiometabolic risk but does improve quality of life and body composition in an Aotearoa New Zealand population at increased cardiometabolic risk: A randomised controlled trial.

To test if a New Zealand food-based Mediterranean diet (NZMedDiet) with behavioural intervention improves cardiometabolic health and wellbeing. A randomised controlled trial comparing 12 weeks of the NZMedDiet to usual diet in participants with increased cardiometabolic risk (metabolic syndrome severity score [MetSSS] > 0.35). The intervention group was provided with food and recipes to meet 75% of their energy requirements, supported by a behavioural intervention to improve adherence. The primary outcome measure was (MetSSS) after 12 weeks. Two hundred individuals with mean (SD) age 49.9 (10.9) years of which 62% women were enrolled with their household/whānau. After 12 weeks, the mean (SD) MetSSS was 1.0 (0.7) in the control (n = 98) and 0.8 (0.5) in the intervention (n = 102) group; estimated difference (95% confidence interval [CI]) of -0.05 (-0.16 to 0.06), p = 0.35. The Mediterranean diet score (PyrMDS) was greater in the intervention group 1.6 (1.1-2.1), p < 0.001, consistent with a change to a more Mediterranean dietary pattern. Weight reduced in the NZMedDiet group compared with control (-1.9 kg [-2.0 to -0.34]), p = 0.006 and wellbeing, assessed by the SF-36 quality of life questionnaire, and improved across all domains. For example, the physical component summary score difference (95% CI) was 4.0 (2.4-5.7), p < 0.001, and the mental component summary score difference was 3.0 (0.7-5.2), p = 0.01. In participants with increased cardiometabolic risk, food provision with a Mediterranean dietary pattern and a behavioural intervention did not improve metabolic risk scores but was associated with reduced weight and improved quality of life.

Effect of video-based exercise on premenstrual symptoms: a randomized controlled trial.

This study aims to investigate the impact of Pilates exercises on premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, perceived stress levels, and pain intensity. Forty-six women with PMS participated in this study and were assigned to the intervention and control groups based on their willingness to participate. The intervention group undertook Pilates practices via video recording twice a week for 8 weeks, while the control group did not engage in regular exercise during the same period. PMS symptoms were assessed using the Premenstrual Syndrome Scale (PMSS), premenstrual stress levels were evaluated using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and premenstrual pain levels were assessed using the McGill Melzack Pain Questionnaire (MPQ) at both the beginning and end of the study. There was a significant difference observed in the PMSS, PSS and MPQ evaluations of the intervention group following their participation in Pilates practices (p < 0.05). Conversely, no significant difference was observed in the PMSS, PSS and MPQ evaluations of the control group at the end of the study (p > 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in PMSS evaluation (p > 0.05) at the end of the study. However, a statistically significant difference was detected in PSS and MPQ evaluations (p < 0.05). Pilates exercise can affectively decrease the perceived stress level and pain severity in PMS affected women. This study highlights the efficacy of Pilates for physiotherapists in PMS symptom reduction. Moreover, the implementation of a self-guided video-based home exercise program could provide patients with practical and time-efficient alternatives.

Gastrointestinal and respiratory morbidity when introducing eggs as complementary food: a randomised controlled trial in South African infants

We investigated the incidence and duration of morbidity symptoms among infants aged 6 to 9 months from a low socioeconomic community receiving one egg daily for 6 months. This was a secondary outcome of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) of 500 infants conducted in Jouberton, South Africa. The primary outcome was linear growth. Morbidity data were collected weekly using a symptoms diary and qualitative data with focus group discussions at the endpoint. Ethical approval was obtained from the North-West University Health Research Ethics Committee. The intervention group had a ~ 5% higher incidence of gastrointestinal morbidity (17.0%) compared to the control group (11.9%). Gastrointestinal morbidity without fever tended to be 1.4 times higher in the intervention group (OR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.93; P = 0.058) and tended to be 4 times higher with fever (OR: 4.07, 95% CI: 0.86, 19.23; P = 0.077). The duration of total gastrointestinal and respiratory morbidity was 1.5 days longer in the intervention group (β: 1.491; 95% CI 0.064, 2.918; P = 0.041). Complementary feeding with eggs may have contributed towards an increased risk for gastrointestinal morbidity.

Six Weeks to Wellness: The Role of Breathing Exercises Based on Motor Development Pattern in Improving Fitness and Quality of Life in Overweight Elderly Women.

Background: Being overweight is a major global health epidemic of the 20th and 21st centuries, which can affect the movement system function of older adult women. This study evaluated the effects of a breathing exercise based on motor development patterns on functional fitness and quality of life in overweight older adult women. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 40 community-dwelling women aged 65-75. Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group, which completed a 6-week breathing exercise program (three supervised and three home-based sessions per week), or a control group, which maintained usual routines. Outcome measures included cardiovascular fitness, upper and lower body flexibility, muscle strength, dynamic balance, and quality of life, assessed at baseline and post-intervention. Results: The intervention group showed significant improvements in cardiovascular fitness (p < .001, ES = 0.652), upper body flexibility (p < .001, ES = 0.652), lower body flexibility (p < .001, ES = 0.538), upper body strength (p < .001, ES = 0.538), lower body strength (p < .001, ES = 0.538), and dynamic balance (p < .001, ES = 0.475) compared to the control group. Quality of life also significantly improved in the intervention group (p < .001, ES = 0.475). Conclusion: Breathing exercises based on motor development patterns significantly enhance functional fitness and quality of life in overweight older adult women. Incorporating these exercises into regular physical activity routines may promote health and independence in older adults. Further research should explore long-term benefits and optimal exercise parameters for older adults.