Significant Within-group Differences Research Articles

A Cluster-Randomized Trial Comparing Songwriting and Recreational Music Therapy via Craving and Withdrawal in Adults on a Detoxification Unit

Background Craving and withdrawal can contribute to the development and maintenance of substance use disorder (SUD), relapse, and overdose. Although music therapy can positively impact craving and withdrawal in adults with SUD on a detoxification unit, there is a lack of randomized research comparing different music therapy interventions as well as studies measuring within-session changes in these critical constructs. Objective The purpose of this effectiveness study was to compare motivational-educational songwriting (MESW) and recreational music therapy (RMT) via measures of craving and withdrawal in adults with SUD on a detoxification unit using a two-group pre- and posttest design. Method Participants (N = 134) were cluster-randomized to a single group MESW or RMT condition. Established craving and withdrawal psychometric instruments were used as pre- and posttests to determine potential within- and between-group differences. Results There were significant within-group differences in craving subscales of urges and coping as well as withdrawal, all p < .001. Within-group effect sizes ranged from .244 to .456 with favorable changes from pre- to posttest. There was no between-group difference among the MESW and RMT conditions, all p > .05. Conclusions Although the specific music therapy intervention did not impact craving or withdrawal, a single MESW or RMT session can have an immediate and significant positive impact on craving and withdrawal in adults with SUD on a detoxification unit. As the MESW condition also addressed motivational and educational aspects of recovery, perhaps MESW interventions are ideal in detoxification settings.

Risk factors for end-stage renal disease in patients with trauma and stage 3 acute kidney injury.

Research on long-term renal outcomes in patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) and trauma, especially those with traumatic brain injury (TBI), has been limited.In this study, we enrolled patients with stage 3 AKI as per the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes guidelines, who initiated renal replacement therapy (RRT). These patients were divided into 2 groups depending on the presence of TBI. Comparing the baseline characteristics and management strategies of each group, we analyzed whether TBI affects the progression of kidney disease.Between January 1, 2014 and June 30, 2020, 51 patients who initiated RRT due to AKI after trauma were enrolled in this study. TBI was identified in 20 patients, and the clinical conditions were not related to TBI in the remaining 31. The study endpoint was set to determine whether the patients of each group needed RRT persistently at discharge and at the time of recent outpatient clinic. Six (30.0%) out of 20 patients with TBI and 2 (6.5%) out of 31 patients without TBI required conventional hemodialysis, as per the most recent data. No significant within-group differences were found in terms of the baseline characteristics and management strategies. In the logistic regression analysis, TBI was independently associated with disease progression to end-stage renal disease.TBI is a risk factor for end-stage renal disease in patients with trauma and stage 3 AKI who initiate RRT.

Impact of Mindfulness Training on Spanish Police Officers\u2019 Mental and Emotional Health: a Non-Randomized Pilot Study

ObjectivesThe purpose of this exploratory non-randomized controlled study was to determine the acceptance and effectiveness of an 8-week mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) co-designed by a police officer.MethodsA pretest-posttest control group design was followed. Participants (MBI group = 20; control group = 18) answered baseline and post-training self-reported measures. In addition, the weekly emotional state of the MBI group was collected. Paired-samples t-test and analysis of covariance were performed for pre-post within-group and between-group differences, respectively, as well as linear mixed effects analysis of repeated measures for week-by-week data.ResultsHigh acceptance and attendance rates, as well as significant pre-post within-group differences in the MBI group in mindfulness (η2 = 0.43), self-compassion (η2 = 0.43), depression (η2 = 0.54), anxiety (η2 = 0.46), stress (η2 = 0.51), difficulties in emotion regulation, sleep quality (η2 = 0.57), and burnout (η2 = 0.31–0.47), were identified. Moreover, police officers who underwent the MBI experienced a week by week decrease of anger, disgust, anxiety, sadness, and desire. Finally, after adjusting for pre-test scores, significant between-group differences were found in the way of attending to internal and external experiences (observing mindfulness facet; ηp2 = 0.21), depression symptoms (ηp2 = 0.23), general distress (ηp2 = 0.24), and the degree of physical and psychological exhaustion (personal burnout; ηp2 = 0.20).ConclusionsThe preliminary effectiveness of this MBI on psychopathology and quality of life outcomes in Spanish police officers was discussed. Previous evidence regarding the promising use of MBIs in this population was supported.

The Effect of Constant and Variable Practice on the Learning of Soccer Pass Skill in Children With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Background and Aims The application of principles of motor learning in children with deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is essential. This study investigated the effect of constant and variable practice on learning soccer pass skills in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and normal children. Methods For this purpose, two groups of 34 ADHD and 34 typically developing children with a mean age of (8.36±0.51) were selected by purposive sampling. Each group was randomly divided into experimental (variable practice) and control (constant practice) subgroups. At first, the Pretest of the soccer pass was performed based on the Mor-Christian General Soccer Ability Skill Test Battery. Then the training program was conducted for 8 weeks consisting of two sessions per week (20 trials per session) for 45 minutes. After the last session, Post-test, and after one week, the retention and transfer tests were performed on two consecutive days. Data were analyzed using mixed-design ANOVA and one-way ANOVA. Results The results showed a significant within-group difference in all training groups from Pretest to Post-test (P=0.001). Comparison of Post-test, retention, and transfer tests in the training groups showed no significant difference between the training groups, but comparing the means indicates that in both groups of typically developing children and children with ADHD, variable training resulted in better retention and transfer than constant training. Conclusion In general, the results of this study showed that in children with ADHD, as in typically developing children, variable practice is probably more effective in the learning of soccer pass skills than constant practice.

In-home Online Music Therapy for Psychological Health among Caregivers of Persons with Dementia: A Pilot Study

Past research has underscored four key themes prevalent in popular and scientific discourse on successful aging in North America – the emphasis on individual agency and control; continuing productive activity into old age; the value of independence in late life; and an ideal construction of permanent personhood, wherein the realities of mortality and decline are inadequately addressed (Lamb, 2014). Yet, the meanings attached to successful aging differ across cultures and are not very well-understood. The Perceptions of Aging Well in Diverse Populations study aims to acquire a holistic understanding of the attitudes and beliefs around aging well across cultures and to identify the similarities and differences in these perceptions within diverse racial and ethnic groups. This presentation highlights preliminary findings from in-depth, semi-structured qualitative interviews with South Asian Americans 50 years and older (n=19; 9 men, 10 women). Participants shared that a sense of inevitability and aging with “grace”, “dignity”, and “wisdom” were key components of successful aging. Maintaining good health, keeping a positive attitude, and remaining independent in later life appeared motivated primarily by a desire to remain connected to, but not necessarily “burden” adult children with caregiving responsibilities. Religious faith and spiritual well-being, availability of support systems, and a sense of community were key facilitators. Limited English proficiency and loneliness posed challenges to aging well, particularly in late-life immigrants. These findings provide unique insights into subjective perceptions of successful aging and may help inform programs and policies that support the health and well-being of older South Asian Americans.

Effect of Electroacupuncture on Shoulder Subluxation in Poststroke Patients with Hemiplegic Shoulder Pain: A Sham-Controlled Study Using Multidimensional Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Assessment.

Objective This study aimed to use multidimensional musculoskeletal ultrasound imaging technique to investigate the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on shoulder subluxation in poststroke patients with hemiplegic shoulder pain. Methods In this prospective single-blind, randomized, sham-controlled study, thirty-four patients with shoulder subluxation and hemiplegic shoulder pain were recruited and randomly assigned into the EA group or the sham EA (SEA) group. In the EA group, EA was applied to the Jian yu (LI15), Bi nao (LI14), Jian zhen (SI9), and Jian liao (TE14) acupoints. In the SEA group, the EA was applied 15 mm away from the Lou gu (SP7), Di ji (SP8), Jiao xin (KI8), and Zhu bin (KI9) acupoints. Both groups underwent treatment 30 minutes/day, five days a week, for two weeks using dense waves with a frequency of 2/100 Hz. A Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was used to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment in reducing shoulder pain. Musculoskeletal ultrasound was used to evaluate the changes of measures of shoulder subluxation in multidimensions (i.e., the acromiohumeral distance, AHD; acromion-greater tuberosity, AGT; and acromion-lesser tuberosity, ALT). Both the within- and between-groups treatment effects were assessed. Results The pain intensity measured by VAS and shoulder subluxation measured by musculoskeletal ultrasound (i.e., AHD, AGT, and ALT) showed significant (p < 0.05) within-group difference in both groups. The between-group difference appeared in the pain intensity (p < 0.05), while it disappeared in the three measures of shoulder subluxation (p > 0.05). Conclusions Using VAS for measuring pain intensity and multidimensional musculoskeletal ultrasound imaging technique for measuring shoulder subluxation, this study finds that the hemiplegic shoulder pain can be improved significantly by the EA while the shoulder subluxation cannot be. Our findings further reveal the analgesic mechanism of EA on hemiplegic shoulder pain following stroke.

Efficacy of CPP-ACP fluoride varnish applied with and without acid etching in preventing enamel demineralization compared to light-curable fluoride varnish.

To compare efficacy of casein phosphopeptide (CPP)-amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) fluoride varnish and light-curable resin modified glass ionomer fluoride varnish (FV) in preventing white spot lesions and evaluating acid etching prior to CPP-ACPFV application on its efficacy. Molars and premolars were transected and halves divided into four groups (n = 18/group): (1) resin-modified glass ionomer FV: etched and Clinpro-XT varnish (3M ESPE, Pymble, New South Wales, Australia) application; (2) CPP-ACPFV: MI varnish (GC America, Alsip, IL) application; (3) Etch+CPP-ACPFV: etched and MI varnish application; (4) Control: etched and no surface treatment. To simulate 12 weeks in an intraoral environment, samples were subjected to thermocycling, brushing, and pH cycling. Enamel surface microhardness was evaluated at baseline and after the simulated 12 weeks. Representative samples were also assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). At baseline there was no significant difference in microhardness among groups. After the simulated 12 weeks, all groups showed significant within-group differences (P < .001). Control showed the highest percentage loss of surface microhardness (89%), followed by CPP-ACPFV (58%), RMGIFV (51%), and Etch+CPP-ACPFV (24%). The control group had a significant decrease in microhardness compared to all experimental groups (P < .001). No difference was found between the RMGIFV and CPP-ACPFV varnish groups. The Etch+CPP-ACPFV group had significantly less decrease in microhardness compared to the RMGIFV (P < .001) and CPP-ACPFV groups (P < .001). With SEM, control samples showed signs of enamel surface damage, while experimental groups showed spherical particles on a relatively intact surface. RMGIFV and CPP-ACPFV are effective in reducing enamel demineralization. Acid etching the enamel surface prior to CPP-ACPFV varnish application increased its efficacy.

Effects of computer-based therapy versus therapist-mediated therapy in stroke-related aphasia: Pilot non-inferiority study

PurposeThe burgeoning growth of computer-based rehabilitation technologies has led to a paradigm shift in the delivery of aphasia intervention. The aim of this study was to conduct a pilot non-inferiority study comparing computer-based training for people with aphasia versus traditional therapist-mediated training on language skills, functional communication and quality of life outcomes in the hospital setting. MethodsTwenty-two fluent, monolingual Italian speakers with stroke-related aphasia in the acute phase of recovery were enrolled in the study. Participants were assigned randomly to computer-based or therapist-mediated aphasia treatment. Both groups received one, 50-minute session for 5 days per week over a period of 8 weeks. During the training, they were administered words and sentence comprehension, written naming, word completion, fluency, word and sentence reorganization tasks. The complexity of each task was increased progressively based on the severity of each person's language deficits. ResultsParticipants in both computer-based and traditional therapist-mediated aphasia intervention showed significant gains in language skills, functional communication and quality of life from pre- to post-treatment. Statistically significant within-group differences were found across all outcome measures. In contrast, no significant between-group and group x time interaction effects were found across language skills, functional communication and quality-of-life measures. ConclusionsThe overall pattern of findings suggested computer-based intervention was not inferior to traditional therapist-based intervention for enhancing functional communication deficits in stroke-related aphasia during the acute phase of recovery. A follow-up, fully-powered clinical trial is needed to confirm the reliability of these results.

The effect of one dry needling session on pain, central pain processing, muscle co-contraction and gait characteristics in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial.

To assess the immediate and three days postintervention effect of one dry needling session compared to one sham needling session on pain, central pain processing, muscle co-contraction and spatiotemporal parameters during gait in knee osteoarthritis patients. A double-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted. Sixty-one knee osteoarthritis patients were randomly assigned to the dry needling or sham needling group. Primary outcomes were pain and central pain processing. Secondary outcomes included muscle co-contraction and spatiotemporal parameters during gait. Patients were assessed at baseline and 15min after the intervention, and pain also three days after the intervention. Linear mixed models were used to examine between- and within-group differences. No significant between-group differences for pain were found, but within-group scores showed a significant decrease 15min after sham needling and three days after dry needling. The mean conditioned pain modulation effect measured at the m. Trapezius worsened significantly 15min after sham needling compared to after dry needling (between-group difference). However, individual conditioned pain modulation percentage scores remained stable over time. Various significant within-group differences were found 15min after sham needling: a decrease of conditioned pain modulation measured at m. Quadriceps and m. Trapezius and stride- and step-time scores, and an increase in step length and widespread pain pressure threshold. A significant decrease in muscle co-contraction index of the m. Vastus Medialis and Semitendinosus was found as within-group difference 15min after dry needling. Dry needling has no larger effect on pain, central pain processing, muscle co-contraction and gait pattern 15min and three days postintervention compared to sham needling. Mean conditioned pain modulation scores worsened after sham needling compared to after dry needling. Further research remains necessary.

Effects of dry needling on gait and muscle tone in Parkinson's disease: a randomized clinical trial.

Alterations in gait and muscular rigidity are common and disabling in persons with Parkinson's disease (PD). The aim of this study was to determine whether a single dry needling (DN) session can promote changes in gait and muscle tone in the lower extremities as well as in the evolution of the disease in persons with PD. A randomized double-blind clinical trial was designed. Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group (IG) that received a session of DN over the semitendinosus, medial gastrocnemius, soleus and rectus femoris muscles, or to a control group (CG) that received a session of sham DN in the same muscles. The effects of DN were assessed using the timed up and go test (TUG), 10 meter walk test (10MWT), 6 minute walk test (6MWT) and myotonometry before, immediately after, and 7 days after the intervention. Thirty-three participants were analyzed aged 69.9 ± 7.2 years (mean ± SD; 39% female). There were no significant differences between the IG and CG for any outcomes. Significant differences were observed when comparing the Pre and Follow-up values in the IG for functional mobility of gait in the TUG (p = 0.049), gait speed in the 10MWT (p = 0.041) and muscle tone in the lower extremities by myotonometry (frequency (p = 0.027) and stiffness (p = 0.013)). By comparison, there were no significant within-group differences in the CG. A single session of DN had no measurable benefit compared to a single session of sham DN. Within-group changes in the IG suggested improvements in functional mobility of gait and gait speed, as well as changes in the muscle tone in the lower extremities of PD patients, which could be worthy of further exploration by future research.

Mometasone furoate nasal spray in the treatment of patients with COVID-19 olfactory dysfunction: A randomized, double blind clinical trial

The aim of this study was to evaluate the usage of mometasone furoate nasal spray in the recovery of patients with severe microsmia or anosmia induced by COVID-19.This was a prospective clinical trial on non-hospitalized adult patients with COVID-19 (>18 years) who had severe microsmia or anosmia within two weeks. The subjects were randomly assigned to the mometasone furoate group (100 mcg twice daily) or sodium chloride group (0.9%); both groups also received olfactory training for 4 weeks. The primary outcome was the improvement of the olfactory score at the end of the study. Visual analog scale (VAS) and the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT) were used to assess primary outcome.A total of 80 patients were recruited, 77 of them completed the study and were analyzed. There was no statistically significant difference in terms of demographics and baseline clinical characteristics. The olfactory scores (based on VAS) at weekly intervals showed a significant difference between the two groups (P:0.318, <0.001, <0.001, <0.001, respectively). The analyses also showed significant within-group differences from baseline. Nevertheless, the changes were not significant between the two groups (P: 0.444, 0.402, 0.267, 0.329). There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of the UPSIT results (p > 0.239). However, a significant between-group difference was noted in the severity of loss of smell (P < 0.001).Compared to olfactory training, mometasone furoate nasal spray combination with olfactory training showed a higher improvement in severe chronic anosmia by COVID-19.

Effects of bi-axial ankle strengthening on muscle co-contraction during gait in chronic stroke patients: A randomized controlled pilot study

Ankle dysfunction in patients with stroke is a common but serious cause of balance and gait impairments. However, comprehensive paretic ankle training seldom exists. Thus, we investigated the effects of a bi-axial ankle muscle training program using visual feedback as a means to improve ankle strength and performance of functional activities in patients with stroke. This study was a randomized controlled pilot trial with concealed allocation and assessor blinding and intention-to-treat analysis. Twenty-five patients with stroke and difficulty in walking (e.g., foot drop) or ankle muscle weakness receiving inpatient rehabilitation were included. The experimental group underwent ankle muscle training consisting of passive stretching, control of ankle muscles, and active-resistive strengthening using visual feedback for 40 min per day, 5 times per week for 4 weeks. The control group underwent ankle-related physical therapy, including ankle range-of-motion exercises. The amount of time for training was equal between the two groups. The outcome measurements were isometric ankle contraction force to assess the strength of ankle muscles, ankle proprioception, Fugl-Meyer lower extremity score, Berg balance scale score, walking speed, and ankle co-contraction index to assess muscle efficiency during gait. The analysis revealed significant between-group differences in the ankle muscle strength in each direction (P < 0.05), Fugl-Meyer score (P < 0.01), and stance-phase co-contraction index (P < 0.05). After training, the experimental group displayed significant within-group differences in the strength of the ankle muscles in each direction (P < 0.01), ankle proprioception (P < 0.05), and walking speed (P < 0.05). Our findings demonstrate the significant short-term effects of ankle muscle training on strength, walking speed, and muscle efficiency in patients with chronic stroke.

Effect of Whole Cell Algae Fermentate on Gut Health and Microbiome in Healthy Adults with Mild Gastrointestinal Issues: A Randomized, Controlled, Crossover Study

Objective The gut microbiota plays an important role in supporting overall health. Natural and safe substances that promote gut health and overall wellbeing are of great interest. This study examined the effect of Whole Cell Algae Fermentate (WCF) derived from Euglena gracilis on consistency and regularity of bowel habits and changes in fecal microbiome in healthy adults. Methods In this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study, 50 men and women (21-60 y, 18.5-43.9 kg/m2) with mild GI issues were supplemented with either placebo or 375 mg/d dried WCF for 4 weeks with a 3-week washout period. Before and after each 4-week intervention, subjects completed the Gastrointestinal Tolerance Questionnaire, Bowel Habits Diary, Perceived Stress Scale, and World Health Organization-Quality of Life Questionnaire. Circulating biomarkers, such as glucose, lipids, zonulin, and LPS-binding protein, were also assessed. Fecal microbiome was analyzed using a 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing method and fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) were analyzed using a GC-MS method. Results The relative abundance of Bacteroidetes was larger with WCF intervention compared to placebo (p = 0.046) and the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes (F/B) was smaller (p = 0.025). Shannon and Simpson α-diversity indices of fecal microbiome were significantly decreased by WCF compared to placebo (p <0.05). Bray-Curtis β-diversity index showed that WCF did not alter the overall fecal microbiome composition. There were no significant differences between placebo and WCF in GI symptoms, stool frequency and consistency, and ease of stool passage rating, perceived stress and quality of life scores, or fecal biomarkers. Significant within-group differences (p <0.05) were observed in the WCF group but not placebo for the gut permeability marker zonulin, ease of stool passage, fecal Actinobacteria, and the presence of five GI symptoms (gas/flatulence, abdominal cramping, abdominal distention/bloating, burping, reflux/heartburn). The result of a subgroup analysis of subjects with a decrease in the F/B ratio during the WCF intervention showed reduced Firmicutes (p <0.001) and Intestinibacter (p = 0.007)abundances in WCF compared to placebo. Additionally, the fecal branched SCFA, isovaleric (p = 0.038) and isobutryic acids (p = 0.042), were lower following WCF intervention compared to placebo. Conclusion Consumption of 375 mg/d dried WCF for 4 weeks improved F/B ratio, which has been linked with multiple beneficial health outcomes such as gut dysbiosis and metabolic syndrome. Interestingly, WCF decreased α-diversity of fecal microbiome, as has been observed with supplementation of prebiotic fibers. These microbial shifts were accompanied by potential objective improvements within the WCF group. Additionally, potentially harmful branched SCFA were reduced by WCF. This study is the first to show gut health improvements in humans following WCF supplementation.

How do elite female team sport athletes experience mental fatigue? Comparison between international competition, training and preparation camps

ABSTRACT Mental fatigue has been shown to negatively influence physical, technical and tactical aspects of sporting performance. However, mental fatigue is not routinely monitored or managed in elite sport and it is not clear whether mental fatigue occurs and/or changes across the varied contextual demands experienced by elite athletes in training, preparation and competition. This study explored self-report measures of mental fatigue across eight training camps and six competition periods (two benchmark tournaments and four international test series) with international netballers (n = 22, 25.9 ± 2.7 years) during the 2018–2019 representative period. Mental fatigue was higher during training camps (p < 0.001; 3.20 [3.12, 3.27]) and preparation camps (p < 0.05; 3.27 [3.19, 3.34]) compared to the competition periods (3.49 [3.44, 3.55]). Significant within-group differences were also identified between individual preparation camps and competition subsets. Higher mental fatigue was reported during the preparation camp for international test series 2 comparative to the preparation camp for benchmark tournament 1 (p = 0.047). For individual competitions; greater mental fatigue was found during the international test series 3 competition in comparison to both the benchmark tournament 1 (p <0.001) and international test series 1 (p = 0.020) competition periods. International representative netballers experience differing levels of mental fatigue across training and preparation camps and competition periods. Practitioners should be aware that athletes report instances of elevated mental fatigue across camps, and competition. Mental fatigue is not limited to competition and thus is recommended to be monitored during periods of training and preparation for competition. Highlights International representative netballers experience differing levels of mental fatigue across camp and competition environments. Mental fatigue was higher during training camps and preparation camps compared to the competition periods. Mental fatigue is not limited to competition so is recommended to be monitored during periods of training and preparation for competition.

Suicidality risk among adult sexual minorities: Results from a cross-sectional population-based survey

Suicide among sexual minority adults is a serious public health issue. Data from the National Survey of Drug Use and Health (2015–2018) were analyzed to evaluate factors associated with past-year suicidality risk (thoughts, plans, or attempts) and self-reported sexual identity. Findings support previous research that sexual minority groups have a higher risk of suicidality compared to heterosexuals. Additionally, significant within-group gender differences were found for bisexuals with reported past-year suicide attempts. The risk ratio trajectory from suicidal ideation to suicidal attempt was the most striking for the gay and lesbian group compared to other populations. Implications and recommendations for future research are discussed.

The effect of a weekly flywheel resistance training session on elite U-16 soccer players’ physical performance during the competitive season. A randomized controlled trial

ABSTRACT This study investigated the effects of a weekly flywheel resistance training session over a 10-week period on U16 soccer players’ physical performance with special attention to change of direction ability (e.g., deficit [CODdef]). Twenty elite young soccer players were assigned to an experimental (EG, n = 10) or control (CG, n = 10) group. Unilateral countermovement jumps with dominant (CMJd) and non-dominant (CMJnd) leg, 10, 20, and 30-m linear sprint test and change of direction sprint test in 5 + 5 (COD10) and 10 + 10 m (COD20) were performed before and after flywheel training period. Significant within-group differences were found in CG in COD10 (p = 0.01; effect size [ES] = large) and CODdef10 (p = 0.03; ES = small) with dominant leg, while differences in EG were observed in CMJ (p = 0.001–0.01; ES = moderate-large) and in all COD and CODdef variables (p = 0.001–0.04; ES = large). Between-groups analysis revealed differences in favour of the EG in CMJ (p = 0.03–0.05) and COD and CODdef variables (p = 0.001–0.05). These findings suggest a weekly flywheel training session is suitable for improving jumping and COD abilities in U16 elite soccer players in season.

Exploring Adaptation and Satisfaction in Copied Complete Dentures Regarding Two Different Occlusal Schemes

To compare patient adaptation to and satisfaction with new complete dentures fabricated with a duplication construction protocol (DCP) using two different occlusal schemes, bilateral balanced (BBO) and lingualized (LO). Twenty complete denture wearers who received replacement DCP dentures participated in this study. Ten participants received complete dentures with a BBO scheme, and the other 10 received DCP dentures with an LO scheme. All of them evaluated their prostheses subjectively through the Oral Health Impact Profile-20 (OHIP-20) and the Complete Denture Satisfaction (CDS) questionnaires before treatment and at 3- and 6-month posttreatment intervals. The new prostheses were also normatively evaluated by recording the location and number of sore spots present at the scheduled early adjustment visits. Data were analyzed with nonparametric tests to identify differences in patient responses between groups and within each group at each evaluation interval point (α = .05). The within-group comparisons revealed statistically significant improvement for both denture groups (P < .05), while the between-group comparisons did not record statistically significant differences at the overall evaluation period (P > .05). Significant within-group differences were recorded in the pain, functional limitation, and psychologic disability domains of the OHIP-20 questionnaire and the comfort, esthetics, and stability domains of the CDS questionnaire. The patients' adaptation to and satisfaction with newly constructed DCP dentures improved significantly for both BBO and LO denture groups throughout the evaluation period. The mean number of early adjustment visits was equal for both the BBO and LO denture groups.

The effectiveness of tensioning neural mobilization of brachial plexus in patients with chronic cervical radiculopathy: a randomized clinical trial

IntroductionTensioning neural mobilization (NM) is accomplished through increasing the distance between nerve bed ends via elongation. NM techniques have different biomechanical effects on the nervous system. Evidence for their use in treating certain upper-quarter conditions like cervicobrachial pain is limited. The study was to determine tensioning NM efficacy on unilateral chronic cervical radiculopathy regarding mechanosensitivity of the affected nerve roots and intensity of neck and arm pain.MethodsForty participants with chronic unilateral cervical radiculopathy were randomly assigned to group A (&lt;i&gt;n&lt;/i&gt; = 20), receiving traditional physical therapy (manual traction and infrared irradiation), and group B (&lt;i&gt;n&lt;/i&gt; = 20), receiving traditional physical therapy in addition to tensioning NM of brachial plexus. Mechanosensitivity of the affected brachial nerve roots and intensity of neck and arm pain were evaluated at baseline and after a 3-week program with the upper limb tension test-1 and visual analogue scale. The normal (Z) test, paired and unpaired t-test, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, and Wilcoxon rank-sum test (Mann-Whitney) were used in data analysis.ResultsThere were significant within-group differences in both groups regarding mechanosensitivity and pain intensity (mechanosensitivity: &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; = 0.001 for group A, &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; = 0.001 for group B; pain: &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; &lt; 0.01 for group A, &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; &lt; 0.01 for group B). There was no statistically significant between-group difference regarding mechanosensitivity (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; = 0.07) or pain intensity (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; = 0.838).ConclusionsThe addition of tensioning NM to traditional physical therapy had no significant benefits, although both groups showed decreased post-treatment mechanosensitivity and pain intensity.

Effects of combining core muscle activation with treadmill walk on endurance of trunk muscles: A pilot study

Background: Abdominal bracing is one of the most effective techniques for core muscle training, which if combined with treadmill walk (TW) could provide trunk muscle endurance Trunk muscle endurance, despite being observed as an important factor and a huge component of core spinal stability, especially in holding up the spine during prolonged functional activity, prevention and rehabilitation of lumbar mechanical problems and performance enhancer in sports, the impacts of combining core muscle activation with TW exercises on trunk muscle endurance has not be succinctly investigated. Aims: The objective of this study was to determine the effect of combining abdominal bracing with TW on trunk muscles endurance. Materials and Methods: Eighteen apparently healthy young adults were randomized into three groups (TW without abdominal bracing, TW combined with abdominal bracing and control). McGill endurance test measures were carried out at baseline and after 6 weeks of intervention. All participants followed the assigned intervention protocols. Results: One way analysis of variance did not show a significant between-group difference in the postintervention endurance of trunk muscle among the three groups (P > 0.05). In the TW combined with the abdominal bracing group, paired-t test showed significant within-group difference in the form of an increase in the holding times (endurance) for the right lateral flexors (t = −3.758, P = 0.013), left lateral flexors (t = −4.096, P = 0.005), and extensors (t = −2.441, P = 0.050). Conclusion: Combining abdominal bracing with TW can be used to improve trunk muscle function through facilitation of trunk muscle endurance.

Effect of high-intensity interval training on cardiorespiratory fitness, physical activity and body composition in people with schizophrenia: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundExercise may improve cardiorespiratory fitness in people with schizophrenia, however, possible condition-specific cardiorespiratory disadvantages, a scarcity of methodologically sound studies, and conflicting results raise questions about the effect of exercise on maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) in this group. The primary aim of this study, therefore, was to investigate the effect of high-intensity interval training on VO2max in people with schizophrenia. Second, we sought to determine whether the intervention would have an effect on general physical activity (PA) level and body composition.MethodsEighty-two patients with schizophrenia were randomly assigned to supervised high-intensity interval training or computer gaming skills training, performed twice a week for 12 weeks. Oxygen uptake was measured directly, during a maximum exercise session on a treadmill. PA level were assessed using ActiGraph accelerometer, and body composition was assessed by bioelectrical impedance. Differences between groups were assessed by analysis of variance using a univariate general linear model.ResultsThere were no significant differences between the groups on any of the cardiorespiratory variables neither at baseline nor after the program. There were also no significant within-group differences in any of the cardiorespiratory fitness variables between the baseline and post-program time points, despite that 61% of the participants performing high-intensity interval training showed a significant increase in workload on the treadmill. However, 47% of the participants in the high-intensity interval training group had a ≥ 5% increase in VO2max. Participants supervised by mental health care providers with PA competence (e.g. rehabilitation center staff, sport scientist, physical trainer) had a much larger increase in VO2max compared to participants supervised by mental health workers without such competence, and when adding PA competence to the model, the intervention group increased VO2max significantly compared to the comparison group. The intervention had no significant effect on PA level or body composition.ConclusionsThe intervention did not improve VO2max, PA level or body composition but succeeded in increasing workload on the treadmill. With regard to VO2max, approximately half of the patients may be considered responders.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov; NCT02205684, registered July 2014,