Weeks Of Intervention Research Articles

Developing graduate attributes through the application of coaching theory

Graduate attributes (GAs) have been formally adopted by higher education institutions for some time and describe the skills and competences that students should develop over the course of their studies. GAs are considered to be important to universities as they act as a means to represent and extend their brand, while also providing a channel to maintain connection with industry. However, despite regular engagement with industry, employers remain unsatisfied with graduate transferable skills. This may be caused by a lack of a common theoretical underpinning to develop such attributes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to provide an evidence-based methodology which develops transferable skills in university graduates. Two classes at a public university in Hong Kong were used in this study. One class received a 12-week intervention incorporating a variety of coaching activities. The second class acted as a control group. Students were asked to complete pre-intervention surveys which provided self-reports of current ratings in GAs and resourcefulness behaviours. After completion of the 12-week intervention, students were asked to complete post-intervention surveys, again reporting self-ratings on the same topics. Survey data was analysed to identify changes in student scores, which highlighted improvements in all graduate attribute ratings post-intervention. Furthermore, help-seeking behaviours were shown to have significant improvement post intervention. The findings of this study suggest that coaching practices may provide an efficient and effective way to develop transferable skills in students, and this paper provides discussion on the implications of these results.

Cognitive Fatigue, Humor, and Physical Activity: A Field Experiment Testing Whether Humorous Messages Promote Walking in Cognitively Fatigued Individuals

ABSTRACT Despite the success of humorous messages in various health interventions, its role in promoting physical activity (PA) remains understudied. This study addresses this gap by investigating the effectiveness of humorous messages in a 2-week smartphone-based intervention aimed at promoting walking behavior, particularly amongst cognitively fatigued individuals. Female participants (n = 57; M age = 32.00; SD = 4.385) received humorous, nonhumorous, or a mix of both messages (in the form of memes) via a study-specific application, with cognitive fatigue measured daily. Panel linear regression models revealed a significant positive interaction between cognitive fatigue and message type. Our results suggest that the resilience of humorous messages to cognitive fatigue and their potential as motivational tools position them as a more robust choice for promoting PA. Importantly, when cognitively fatigued individuals received humorous messages, their walking behaviors showed no significant change, in contrast to the detrimental impact of nonhumorous messages on exercise. Recognizing the differential effects of cognitive fatigue on message effectiveness and considering the potential of humorous messages as motivational tools offers a valuable perspective for tailoring interventions to individual states.

Effect of very low-carbohydrate high-fat diet and high-intensity interval training on mental health-related indicators in individuals with excessive weight or obesity.

Very low carbohydrate high fat (VLCHF) diet and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) are widely utilized for weight reduction and cardiorespiratory fitness improvement, respectively. To assess the acceptability of these approaches, it is essential to examine mental health-related indicators. This secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial investigated the isolated and synergistic effects of VLCHF and HIIT on mental health-related indicators in individuals with excessive weight or obesity. Sixty-eight participants (age = 42 ± 10.2; 20-60 years; BMI = 29.8 ± 3.7) were analysed across four groups: HIIT (n = 15, 4 males, 11 females), VLCHF (n = 19, 4 males, 15 females), VLCHF + HIIT (n = 19, 4 males, 15 females), and control (n = 15, 4 males, 11 females). The 12-week intervention, involved VLCHF diet or HIIT sessions, depending on group affiliation and completing online questionnaires via Qualtrics software before and after the intervention. The questionnaires included the 12-item Short Form Survey (SF-12) for mental (MHS) and physical health scores (PHS), the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Using the Kruskal-Wallis test, we found no significant differences in mental health-related indicators between groups after 12 weeks, except for SWLS (p = 0.031; ES = 0.133; medium), which improved significantly in the VLCHF + HIIT group compared to the HIIT group. Our findings indicate that HIIT and VLCHF, alone or combined, do not significantly affect mental health-related indicators.

Feasibility, safety and preliminary efficacy of telehealth-delivered group exercise for people with type 2 diabetes: A pilot trial.

Several barriers can preclude people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) from in-person exercise session participation. Telehealth may be an alternative mode of service delivery to increase uptake. We evaluated the feasibility, safety and preliminary efficacy of delivering group exercise via telehealth for people with T2D. Sixteen people with T2D (age 59.9 ± 12.7 years, 63% male, duration of T2D 11.5 ± 11.1 years) underwent an 8-week telehealth-delivered group exercise intervention. Weekly supervised sessions incorporated whole-body aerobic and resistance exercises, followed by education. Feasibility was evaluated by recruitment, enrolment, attendance and attrition rates, the practicality of telehealth delivery, and participant feedback. Adverse events were monitored throughout (safety). Preliminary efficacy was determined from changes in glycaemic control, body composition, blood pressure, exercise capacity, neuromuscular strength/fitness, quality of life and physical activity levels. The agreement/reliability of in-person clinician-measured versus telehealth-supervised participant-self-measured assessments was also evaluated. Feasibility was supported by high attendance (97.1%) and low attrition (81%). All (100%) participants reported they would participate in telehealth-delivered exercise interventions in the future and would recommend them to other people with T2D. No serious adverse events were reported. There were improvements in hip circumference (Cohen's d -0.50), diastolic blood pressure (-0.75), exercise capacity (1.72), upper body strength (1.14), grip strength (0.58), health-related quality of life (0.76-0.81) and self-reported physical activity (1.14). Participant-self-measured assessment of body weight, 2-min step test and 30-sec sit-to-stand test were deemed acceptable. Telehealth-delivered group exercise appears feasible, safe and efficacious for people with T2D. These findings warrant further exploration in a powered trial. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12622000379718).

Safety and Effectiveness of a 4-Week Diet on Low-Carb Ready-to-Eat Ketogenic Products as Preoperative Care Treatment in Patients Scheduled for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery

Before metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS), moderate weight loss and liver left lateral section (LLLS) volume reduction are desirable. Low-carb ketogenic diet-induced weight loss before MBS has been shown to have beneficial effects on the reduction in body weight (BW) and LLLS. However, the nutritional protocol of low-carb ketogenic diet may be hard to keep for prolonged periods due to the lack of sweet taste. Furthermore, transitioning to a low-carb ketogenic diet can cause people to crave foods that are restricted in the ketogenic diet, such as cookies, bread, pasta, and bagels. Therefore, many ready-to-eat low-carb ketogenic products (RLCKP) that mimic carbohydrate-rich foods despite a low-carb composition have been provided to make it easier for the patients to adopt a low-carb lifestyle. To date, there are no studies describing the dietary protocol for efficient and safe use of pre-operative RLCKP in terms of weight and LLLS volume reduction in patients with obesity scheduled for MBS. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the safety and effectiveness of a 4-week diet using RLCKP in reducing BW and LLLS volume in patients with obesity scheduled for MBS. Patients with obesity (n = 42) with a mean body mass index (BMI) of 42.4 ± 9.2 kg/m2 scheduled for MBS underwent a 4-week preoperative RLCKP diet intervention. Their weight, LLLS volume, and biochemical and metabolic parameters were measured before and after the diet. Patient compliance was assessed by the presence of ketonuria and weight loss. Qualitative methods (5-point Likert questionnaire) were used to measure diet acceptability and side effects. All patients completed the study. We observed highly significant decreases in BW (−6.5%, p < 0.001), and LLLS volume (−22.3%, p < 0.001) and an amelioration of patient clinical status. All patients showed a high frequency of acceptability and compliance in following the diet. No adverse side effects were reported. Based on our findings, we were able to support the hypothesis that a 4-week preoperative RLCKP diet is safe and effective in reducing BW, and LLLS volume in patients with obesity scheduled for MBS.

More than Body Appearance! Improving body image in young women through a functionality-focused intervention combined with psychoeducation: A randomized controlled trial.

Body dissatisfaction is a public health concern, prevalent among women. This study aims to investigate the efficacy of a 2-week online functionality-focused intervention combined with psychoeducation on improving body image among young women at both high and low risk of Body Image Disorders (BIDs). A randomized controlled trial was conducted among young women at high risk and low risk of developing BIDs. In total, 231 young women (n = 64 at high risk of BIDs) were randomized into: experimental (n = 113) and waitlist (n = 118) groups. The experimental group underwent the intervention at baseline (T0) for 15 days (T1), while the waitlist group started the intervention at T1 for 15 days (T2). Participants completed questionnaires about body and functionality appreciation, eating disorders (EDs) risk and extreme body dissatisfaction at baseline, 15 days from baseline and 30 days from baseline. Mixed linear models revealed enhancements in body and functionality appreciation post-intervention for women at both high risk and low risk of BIDs. Reductions in EDs risk and body dissatisfaction were observed in participants at high risk. The intervention proves to be useful in promoting a positive body image (i.e. body and functionality appreciation) in women at both high and low risk of BIDs, while the results concerning the risk of developing EDs and extreme body dissatisfaction are more nuanced.

Abstract 4128919: A Study Using Team Based Hypertension Care Focused on Black Patients to Inform a Future Randomized Trial

Background: Current telemedicine programs to manage hypertension are less effective in Black patients perhaps due to insufficient support for self-care skills and social needs. We describe a tailored program for Black patients emphasizing self-management support and social needs to inform future studies. Method: We piloted a 12-week telemedicine intervention comprising home blood pressure (BP) guided pharmacotherapy, frequent self-management support and social support using pharmacist, nurses, community health workers (CHW) and social workers (SW) among 20 patients in 2 clinics. At enrollment, we trained patients to use a BP monitor and a telemonitoring app that transmits BP real-time via a smartphone and provided a pill box to facilitate medication adherence. We asked patients to measure BP at least once daily and used 6 weeks average to guide pharmacotherapy. Trained nurses helped patients achieve self-care goals and provided 8-12 self-management support calls discussing hypertension, medication adherence, diet, physical activity, weight management, sleep, and BP measurement techniques. SWs and CHWs provided social support to address social needs such as food, transportation, and housing, and also offered home visits. Result: Eighteen patients completed the study of which 15 were Black, 2 White, and 1 Korean (9 were women). Mean age was 61.7 ± 11.8 years. Patients measured BP 10 ± 8.6 times/week and completed 8.3 ± 2.5 self-management calls. Over 12 weeks, SBP/DBP decreased by 16.5 ± 26.2/10.2 ± 18.5 mmHg without safety events (Table). There were 1.1 ± 0.8 (range 0-3) medication adjustments (dose or medication changes) per patient. Patients had 8 minor technical difficulties that were promptly resolved. 17 patients used pill boxes to improve medication adherence. Conclusion: Our tailored telemedicine program to manage hypertension is feasible among Black patients and offer valuable insights for future research.

Abstract 4138578: NICE-Support program effectively improves symptom and psychological distress in patients with heart failure

Background: Patients with heart failure may suffer from symptom distress, affecting their overall quality of life and psychological well-being including depression. Limited researches focused on the effects of intervention on symptoms and psychological distress for patients with heart failure. Research Hypothesis: Nutritional education and exercise intervention can significantly improve symptoms and psychological distress in patients with heart failure. Aims: To investigate the effectiveness of the Nutrition Instruction Combined Exercise and Support program (NICE-Support) on symptom and psychological distress in patients with heart failure. Methods: This randomized controlled trial recruited 240 patients with heart failure from two medical centers in Taiwan by convenience sampling. Participants were divided into two subgroups based on participation in the "Post-Acute Care Integration Program (PAC)." Each group was randomly assigned to the experimental group and control group, including PAC, PAC+NICE, N-PAC, and N-PAC+NICE groups. The experimental group received a 12-week NICE-Support intervention, encompassing nursing instruction, nutritional counseling, exercise, and support. The control group followed routine hospital care. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, including basic information, the Heart Failure Symptom Distress Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale at baseline, 4, 12, and 24 weeks after enrollment. Data were analyzed using SPSS 24, including descriptive, t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficients, chi-square tests, and generalized estimating equations. Results: The overall symptom distress score was 45.02 (SD = 13.50). Anxiety and depression were reported in 23.8% and 30.9% patients, with the mean anxiety and depression score of 5.01 (SD = 4.50) and 5.98 (SD = 4.16), respectively. Compared with the N-PAC control group, the PAC+NICE group and N-PAC+NICE group exhibited significant greater improvements in symptom distress at 4, 12, and 24 weeks post-intervention, while the N-PAC+NICE group showed statistically significant greater improvement in anxiety at 12 and 24 weeks. Conclusion: The NICE-Support program effectively improves symptom and psychological distress in patients with heart failure and could implement in patients with heart failure.

Abstract 4147647: Effects on Cognition, Sleep, Quality of life and Exercise Capacity of a 12-week Tele-yoga Intervention in Persons with Heart Failure - Results from 3 and 6 Months Follow-up

Background and Objectives: Yoga may be a promising form of mind-body rehabilitation for patients with long term illness. Digitally delivered yoga increases access to participation but has not previously been evaluated in the heart failure population. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of tele-yoga on cognition, sleep, health-related quality of life and exercise capacity in persons with heart failure. Methods: The Tele-yoga study (ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT 03703609) was a parallel two-arm randomised controlled trial (RCT) with 1:1 distribution to an intervention and control group. Study participants were randomised to tele-yoga including live-streamed group-yoga for 60 minutes twice weekly during 12 weeks and yoga individually for 10 minutes/day using an app, or to a control group receiving individual exercise advice. Cognition (Montreal Cognitive Assessment: MoCA), sleep (minimal insomnia symptom scale; MISS), health-related quality of life (EQ-5D VAS) and sub-maximal exercise capacity (6 minute walk test; 6MWT) were assessed at baseline, after 3 and 6 months. Linear mixed model with random intercept for patients as the random effect and group-time interaction along with age was taken as the fixed effects to analyse outcomes. Results: A total of 311 participants were included (tele-yoga n=156 and active controls n=155), mean age 66 years, 70% men. Adherence to the group yoga was very good. The linear mixed models showed a significant change in cognition, health-related quality of life and exercise capacity favouring the tele-yoga group. No significant differences between the groups were seen regarding sleep. When analysing the fixed effects of all outcomes, age, group assignment and time-points interaction had significant effects on EQ-5D VAS score, 6MWT distance and MoCA scores. For EQ-5D VAS the tele-yoga group performed significantly better than the control group at 3 months, but not at 6 months. For the 6MWT distance, the tele-yoga group performed better than the control group at 3 months, but not at 6 months. The tele-yoga group had significantly higher MoCA scores than the control group at both 3 and 6 months. Conclusion: This adequately powered RCT showed that digitally delivered mind-body training in the format of group and individual yoga during 12 weeks lead to an improvement in cognition, quality of life and exercise capacity at the end of the intervention. The effect was sustained for cognition also after 6 months.

Mindfulness Meditation Improves Mental Health in Flood Survivors and Disaster Volunteers: A Randomized Wait-List Controlled Trial

Abstract Objectives Being affected by a natural disaster or helping victims can impact mental health. This study aimed to examine whether a digital mindfulness intervention positively affects self-compassion, life satisfaction, and positive affect, and alleviates negative affect, perceived stress, and pathological symptoms in victims and volunteers of the flood disaster in Germany in July 2021. Method Participants were 146 people affected by the flood (via house, n = 88; friends, n = 100; workplace, n = 54) and/or volunteered after the disaster (n = 86). After the randomized assignment, 74 received a 6-week application-based mindfulness intervention, and 72 were allocated to the wait-control condition. The control group received the same intervention 6 weeks later. Before (T1) and after (T2) the intervention of the first group and after the intervention of the control group (T3), participants filled out questionnaires regarding different aspects of mental health. Results We found significant interaction effects of time and intervention for all variables (self-compassion, life satisfaction, positive and negative affect, perceived stress, and pathological symptoms), indicating effectiveness of the digital mindfulness intervention. No deterioration were found between T2 and T3 in the intervention group for any of the variables. Conclusions The 6-week digital mindfulness program positively affected the mental health of both disaster victims and volunteers. Therefore, a digital mindfulness intervention could be a good alternative in situations where group programs or face-to-face meetings are infeasible.

Lifestyle intervention improves cardiometabolic profiles among children with metabolically healthy and metabolically unhealthy obesity

BackgroundIn recent years, there has been a surge of interest in the metabolic phenotype among children with obesity characterized by the absence of associated cardiometabolic risk factors (CRFs), known as metabolically healthy obesity (MHO), as opposed to those with metabolically unhealthy obesity (MUO). This study investigated the effect of lifestyle intervention on CRFs among children with MHO and MUO.MethodsA total of 102 school-aged children with obesity (54 girls and 48 boys) aged 8–16 years completed a 16-week school-based lifestyle modification intervention program, MyBFF@school Phase I. The intervention consisted of physical activity, healthy eating promotion, and psychological empowerment. MHO and MUO statuses were defined based on the 2018 consensus-based criteria. Fasting venous blood collection, body composition measurement, clinical assessment and physical fitness testing were conducted at baseline and at the end of week 16.ResultsAfter the intervention, the CRFs of the children with MUO improved with significant decreases in systolic (p < 0.001) and diastolic (p = 0.01) blood pressure and a significant increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (p = 0.005), while the CRFs of the children with MHO had a significant decrease in uric acid (p = 0.04). Additionally, 51.6% of the children with MHO transitioned to the MUO, while 26.8% of the children with MUO crossed over to the MHO at the end of the intervention. Furthermore, the odds of having high systolic blood pressure among children with MUO were 59% lower at week-16 than at baseline (OR = 0.41 (95% CI = 0.18, 0.92), p = 0.03).ConclusionsOur findings demonstrated that CRFs improved more prominently among children with MUO following the intervention. More importantly, our findings indicate that MHO in children is transient, hence, strategies to protect children against MUO are warranted.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02212873.

An aftercare intervention programme for employees returning from substance use rehabilitation in South Africa

PurposeEmployee assistance programmes (EAPs) and wellness practitioners (WPs) are the first line of support for employees returning from substance use rehabilitation. However, many workplaces need more guidance and support provisions to address these needs effectively. The purpose of this paper is to present a 10-week aftercare intervention programme that EAPs and WPs can use to support employees returning to work after a period of substance use rehabilitation.Design/methodology/approachThe qualitative methodological approach involved two distinct stages of data collection and consensus search activities. Stage 1 involved three data collection activities with three stakeholder groups, and Stage 2 consisted of two consensus-seeking engagements with the intended audience of the intervention programme.FindingsParticipants in the consensus-seeking activities endorsed the inclusion of content in the proposed intervention programme and structural and organisational arrangements. Specific recommendations were made, namely, increased reliance on faith-based and spiritual support, the need to include community support structures and ensuring that workplace interventions include counselling, skills training and motivational speakers.Practical implicationsThose working in the EAP environment are offered a systematic and holistic plan for managing and supporting employees recovering from substance abuse disorders (SUDs) to maintain their recovery and return to productive work.Originality/valueImplementing the intervention programmes can reduce the ad hoc nature of current approaches to workplace aftercare. The WPs are placed in a central role while stressing the valuable input of other key role players within the workplace or part of the family and community networks of the employee.

Effects of TABATA Exercise Volume and Royal Jelly Supplementation on NLRP3 Inflammasome and lncRNA-H19 Expression in Obese Men

Background: Both coding and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as vital regulators in almost every cellular process, and their expression can be modulated by external stimuli, such as physical exercise. Objectives: The current research aimed to investigate the effects of different volumes of TABATA-high-intensity interval training (HIIT) exercises combined with royal jelly (RJ) supplementation on the NLRP3 inflammasome and lncRNA-H19 expression in obese males. Methods: Forty-two healthy men [Body Mass Index (BMI) = 30 kg/m², waist-to-hip ratio = 0.95, age range: 40 - 60 years] volunteered to participate in the study. The individuals were randomly divided into five experimental groups (N = 35) and one control + placebo group (N = 7). The high-volume (HV) or low-volume (LV) TABATA exercise programs were performed twice a week for 8 weeks. Participants in the RJ supplementation groups received a 1000 mg capsule once a day for 8 weeks. The expression of NLRP3 and lncRNA-H19 genes was evaluated using the real-time PCR method. Results: The NLRP3 gene expression in the Bruce test, measured before and after the 8-week exercise interventions and RJ supplementation, showed insignificant changes across the different groups. However, the H19 gene expression in the Bruce test showed a significant reduction in the HV-TABATA HIIT intervention groups, which was more pronounced than in the LV groups after 8 weeks: HV group (P = 0.004), RJ group (P = 0.001), HV + RJ group (P = 0.007), and LV + RJ group (P = 0.002). After 8 weeks of non-pharmacological interventions involving exercise training and supplementation, a significant decrease in NLRP3 and a significant increase in H19 gene expression were detected in the HV group compared to the LV group (P = 0.05 and P = 0.010). Significant improvement was also found in the resting H19 levels between the RJ and LV groups (P = 0.011) and the LV + RJ group (P = 0.44). Moreover, a significant reduction in resting NLRP3 gene expression was observed between the RJ + LV and LV groups (P = 0.038). Conclusions: Chronic HV TABATA HIIT exercise, when combined with RJ supplementation, is effective in attenuating inflammatory responses to acute stress.

Balancing Standardization and Ecological Validity in the Measurement of Social Communication Intervention Outcomes.

Caregiver-mediated communication intervention outcomes are inconsistently measured, varying by assessment settings, materials, and activities. Standardized materials are often used for measuring outcomes, yet it remains unknown whether such standardized contexts equitably capture caregiver and child intervention outcomes representative of dyads' typical interactions. This within-subject study investigates how intervention outcomes differ between family-selected and standardized interactional contexts for autistic toddlers and their caregivers. Following an 8-week caregiver-mediated telehealth intervention delivered to 22 dyads, caregiver outcomes (fidelity of using responsive communication facilitation strategies) and child outcomes (total spontaneous directed communicative acts) were measured during two interactional contexts using (a) family-selected activities and (b) a standardized toy set. A routines checklist surveyed the activities dyads value, enjoy, complete frequently, and/or find difficult with their child. Caregiver outcomes and child outcomes did not significantly differ between the family-selected and standardized interactional contexts. Descriptive results suggest that the types of toys commonly included in standardized toy sets are representative of the materials many families choose when playing with their child at home. However, during the family-selected interactional context, the majority of dyads also chose materials or activities that were not available to them during the standardized context. It is necessary to carefully consider a more expansive approach to standardization in which intervention outcomes are measured in ecologically valid contexts, which meaningfully, accurately, and equitably capture caregiver and child functional outcomes, and the translation of interventions to families' everyday routines.

A live online exercise program for older adults improves depression and life-space mobility: A mixed-methods pilot randomized controlled trial.

Aging is the primary risk factor for sarcopenia and mobility limitations. Exercise reduces these risks, but older adults have low levels of participation in physical activity and exercise. We investigated the preliminary effectiveness of a live, online exercise program on community-dwelling older adults' physical activity levels. A mixed-method pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted according to CONSORT 2010 statement: extension for pilot and feasibility trials. Sedentary older adults (65-80 years) were randomly assigned to the online exercise intervention (ACTIVE) or a waitlist control (CON) group. Outcomes were measured pre-randomization and following the 8-week intervention for ACTIVE and CON and two months following the end of the intervention for the ACTIVE group. Outcomes included habitual physical activity levels, depression, anxiety, loneliness, life-space mobility, nutrition risk, and feasibility. All participants were invited to participate post-intervention in individual semi-structured qualitative interviews. Reporting of the qualitative research followed the checklist for the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting research. Seventeen older adults (71% women) were allocated to ACTIVE group, while 15 were allocated to CON group (87% women). Following the intervention, participants in the ACTIVE group reported reduced symptoms of depression (ACTIVE: pre = 4.2 ± 2.5; post = 2.2 ± 1.9; CON: pre = 3.5 ± 2.1, post = 3.5 ± 2.1; p <0.001) and improved life-space mobility (ACTIVE: pre = 62.4 ± 14.7; post = 71.8 ± 16.0; CON: pre = 65.1 ± 19.0, post = 63.6 ± 22.0; p = 0.003) compared to waitlist control participants. The ACTIVE group had good adherence (97%) and acceptability (98%). Twenty-two participants participated in qualitative interviews. Five themes were identified, including (1) Feasibility of the online exercise program; (2) Perceived health benefits and improvements; (3) Registered Kinesiologists and Physiotherapists contributed to perceived safety; (4) Social connectivity associated with synchronous/live delivery; and (5) Growing old gracefully and preventing disability. Our online exercise program was acceptable to older adults, had good adherence, reduced depression, and increased life space. Participants reported improved functional and mental health benefits. Further research is warranted to expand on these findings. NCT04627493; 13/11/2020.

The well-being paradox: Comparing prosocial and self-kindness interventions for mental health benefits.

A growing body of literature supports the idea that prosocial behavior, or behavior done on behalf of another person, is beneficial to well-being. However, modern society often places a greater emphasis on self-care or "treating yourself" in the pursuit of well-being. To understand the effects of these differing forms of kindness (to others or the self), we conducted a 2-week intervention study in December 2020. Participants (N = 999) were randomly assigned to an other-kindness, self-kindness, or control condition. Participants in the other- and self-kindness groups were asked to perform three acts of kindness each week, while participants in the control condition were not. Of those who completed the intervention (N = 781), we found that participants in the other-kindness (vs. self-kindness and control) group experienced significant decreases in depression, anxiety, and loneliness from pre- to postintervention, offering compelling evidence for the mental health benefits of prosocial behavior. Unexpectedly, we also found that participants in the self-kindness (vs. other-kindness and control) group experienced significant increases in depression and anxiety. While the self-kindness group reported enjoying their acts of kindness more, the other-kindness group felt more connected. Overall, these findings reaffirm the benefits of prosocial behavior on well-being and suggest that self-kindness might not be as positive as it feels. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

The Comprehensive Resilience-building psychosocial Intervention (CREST) for people with dementia in the community: a feasibility and acceptability study

BackgroundA dementia diagnosis can lead to a decline in cognitive, social, and physical health, but people with dementia can live meaningful lives and participate actively in society with psychosocial support. This single-arm, non-randomised feasibility study explored the feasibility and acceptability of a Comprehensive REsilience-building psychoSocial intervenTion (CREST) for people with dementia, their caregivers, General Practitioners (GPs), and the public.MethodsNine people with dementia and their primary caregivers living in the community (n = 9 dyads) completed the CREST intervention which had three components (cognitive stimulation therapy [CST], physical exercise, and dementia education). Quantitative secondary outcomes were assessed at baseline and following the 15-week intervention; qualitative interviews were conducted during and post-intervention. All study components were assessed against pre-defined criteria, to determine the feasibility of conducting a future definitive trial.ResultsRecruitment of people with dementia and their caregiver was a significant challenge and led to considerable delays to the onset and conduct of the intervention. Only 13% of eligible GP practices agreed to assist in recruitment and achieved a 6% enrolment rate; a community-based recruitment strategy proved more effective, yielding a 29% enrolment rate. However, once recruited, participants maintained high attendance and adherence to the content of each component with average adherence rates of 98% for CST, exercise sessions and caregiver education. Adherence to secondary exercise measures was lower, with home exercise diary completion at 37% and Fitbit wear adherence at 80% during the day and 67% at night. The people with dementia felt their concentration and fitness had improved over the 15-week intervention and particularly enjoyed the social aspects (e.g. group classes, exercising with partners from the community). Caregivers felt they had better knowledge and understanding following their education component and reported that the social aspects (interacting and sharing experiences with each other) were important. Overall, participants reported that the three components of the intervention were feasible and acceptable. In addition, the quantitative measures and health economic tools employed were feasible. However, the secondary elements of the exercise component (recording home exercise diaries and Fitbit use) were not considered feasible. Overall, pre-defined criteria for progression to a definitive intervention were fulfilled in terms of acceptability, retention and fidelity but not recruitment.ConclusionWhile overall, the CREST intervention was feasible and acceptable to participants, significant difficulties with recruitment of people with dementia and their caregiver through GP practices impacted the viability of delivering the intervention. Recruitment through community-based groups proved a more feasible option and further work is needed to overcome barriers to recruiting this cohort before a larger-scale trial can be conducted.Trial registrationISRCTN25294519.

The Effect of the Nordic Hamstring Exercise on Hamstring Muscle Activity Distribution During High-Speed Running Estimated Using Multichannel Electromyography: A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial.

To evaluate the effect of the Nordic hamstring exercise on normalized muscle activity and relative contribution of the biceps femoris long head, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus through multichannel electromyography in the late-swing phase of high-speed running. A pragmatic, 2-arm, single-center randomized controlled trial. Participants were randomly assigned to a Nordic group or control group. Dutch male basketball. Twenty injury-free players (mean age 18 ± 3 years). A 12-week Nordic hamstring exercise intervention. Level of normalized muscle activity (percentage maximal voluntary isometric contraction [%MVIC]) and relative contribution (%con) of hamstring muscles for 12 weeks. The Nordic hamstring exercise intervention did not result in significant changes for 12 weeks. For normalized muscle activity, between-group differences (compared with the control group) for 12 weeks were 11.4 %MVIC (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: -11.0, 33.8) for the biceps femoris long head, -9.4 %MVIC (95% CI: -23.3, 5.2) for the semitendinosus, and -2.7 %MVIC (95% CI: -15.8, 10.3) for the semimembranosus, P = 0.151. For relative contribution, between-group differences for 12 weeks were -6.1 %con (95% CI: -2.4, 14.6) for the biceps femoris long head, -7.0 %con (95% CI: -13.6, -0.4) for the semitendinosus, and 0.9 %con (95% CI: -9.2, 11.0) for the semimembranosus P = 0.187. Positive values are in favor of the Nordic group. A 12-week Nordic hamstring exercise intervention did not affect the level of muscle activity and relative contribution of hamstring muscles in the late-swing phase of high-speed running. Because of the low amount of data sets, results should be interpreted cautiously.

On-time power mobility and physical activity in toddlers with motor delays: A randomized controlled trial using body-worn sensors

ABSTRACT This study conducted a secondary analysis to objectively measure the effects of modified ride-on cars (MROCs) training in different postures on physical activity (PA) levels in children with motor delays. Data from 39 participants were analyzed in a randomized controlled trial. The participants included those using MROC in standing postures (n = 11, mean age = 22.87 months), MROC in sitting postures (n = 16, mean age = 19.53 months), and a control group that received conventional therapy (n = 12, mean age = 23.30 months). PA intensity was measured using an ActiGraph GT3X on the participants’ wrists and right hip at weeks 1, 6, and 12 of the 12-week intervention period. This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02527356). The demographic data were similar across the groups. No significant differences were found in the interaction, group, or time effects for any of the positions (p > 0.05). The PA levels were consistent in at least light PA intensity range. MROC training may yield PA levels comparable to those of conventional therapy. Variations in activity and motor impairment severity could affect outcomes. Future studies should investigate factors such as task characteristics, motor delay severity, PA cutoff points, and training dosage that may influence PA intensity.

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

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