Effects of core muscles strengthening exercises with routine physical therapy on trunk balance in stroke patients: A randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of core muscle strengthening exercises with and without routine physical therapy on trunk balance in chronic stroke patients. METHODS: The randomised controlled trial was conducted at Mubarak Medical Complex, Sargodha, Pakistan, from October 28, 2021, to April 28, 2022, and comprised patients of either gender with chronic stroke aged 40-60 years. The subjects were randomised using the lottery method into group A that was managed with routine physical therapy, and group B which was further managed with core strengthening exercises. The intervention comprised 4 sessions per week for 8 weeks. Outcome was measured using Trunk Impairment Scale and Time Up and Go test. Data was collected at baseline, week 4 and post-intervention. Data was analysed using SPSS 23. RESULTS: Of the 80 individuals screened, 74(92.5%) were included. There were 37(50%) patients in group A; 30(81%) males and 7(19%) females with mean age 56.73±2.37 years. The remaining 37(50%) patients were in group B; 27(73%) males and 10(27%) females with mean age 55.65±2.88 years. Trunk balance and functional mobility improved significantly post-intervention in both groups (p<0.05), but group B values were significantly better compared to group A values (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Core muscle strengthening exercises combined with routine physical therapy were found to be more effective compared to routine physical therapy alone in chronic stroke patients for improving trunk balance and functional mobility. Registration Number: IRCT20211116053070N1.

Exercise reduces pro-inflammatory lipids and preserves resolution mediators that calibrate macrophage-centric immune metabolism in spleen and heart following obesogenic diet in aging mice.

The study investigated the role of volunteer exercise and an obesogenic diet (OBD) in mice, focusing on the splenocardiac axis and inflammation-resolution signaling. Male C57BL/6J mice (2 months old) were assigned to control (CON) or OBD groups for ten months, then randomized into sedentary (Sed) or exercise (Exe) groups for two weeks. Leukocytes, heart function, structure, and spleen tissue examined for inflammation-resolution mediators and macrophage-centric gene transcripts. After two weeks of volunteer exercise, cardiac function shows limited changes, but structural changes were notable in the heart and spleen. Exercise induced cardiac nuclear hyperplasia observed in both CON and OBD groups. OBD-Sed mice showed splenic changes and increased neutrophils, whereas increased neutrophils were noted in the CON post exercise. OBD-Sed increased pro-inflammatory lipid mediators in the heart, reduced by exercise in OBD-Exe, while CON-Exe preserved resolution mediators. Chronic OBD-Sed depletes long chain fatty acids (DHA/EPA) in the heart and spleen, while exercise independently regulates lipid metabolism genes in both organs, affecting macrophage-centric lipid and lipoprotein pathways. Chronic obesity amplified cardiac inflammation, countered by exercise that lowered pro-inflammatory bioactive lipid mediators in the heart. OBD sustained inflammation in the heart and spleen, while exercise conserved resolution mediators in CON mice. In summary, these findings emphasize the interplay of diet with exercise and highlight the intricate connection of diet, exercise, inflammation-resolution signaling in splenocardiac axis and immune health.

Interindividual variability in energy intake and expenditure during a weight loss intervention.

INTRODUCTION: Behavioral compensations may occur as a response to a negative energy balance. The aim of this study was to explore the associations between changes in energy intake (EI) and changes in physical activity (PA, min/day; kcal/d) as a response to a weight loss (WL) intervention and to understand if interindividual differences occur in EI and energy expenditure (EE). METHODS: Eighty-one participants [mean (SD): age = 42.8 (9.4)y, BMI = 31.2 (4.4)kg/m2, 37% females] divided in intervention (IG, n = 43) and control group (CG, n = 38) were included. The IG underwent a moderate energy restriction (300-500 kcal/d). EI was measured through the intake-balance method. Non-exercise PA (NEPA) and exercise (through logbook) were assessed by accelerometery. The EE in NEPA (NEAT) and in exercise (EiEE) was calculated by applying the Freedson Combination'98 algorithm over the time spent in these activities. Pearson correlations were performed in IG to examine associations between EE components, EI and body composition. To understand if interindividual differences were observed, the SD of individual response (SDIR) and the smallest worthwhile change (SWC, SDbaselineCG×0.2) were calculated. RESULTS: Changes in EI [Δ EI, (kcal/d)] was negatively associated with Δ exercise (min/d:r = -0.413, p = 0.045; %:r = -0.846, p = 0.008) and with Δ EiEE (kcal/d:r = -0.488, p = 0.016; %:r = -0.859, p = 0.006). A negative correlation was found between Δ sedentary time and Δ NEPA (min/d:r = -0.622, p = 0.002; %:r = -0.487, p = 0.018). An interindividual variability was found for EI(SDIR = 151.6, SWC = 72.3) and EE (SDIR = 165, SWC = 134). CONCLUSIONS: Decreases in EI were not associated to compensatory responses such as decreases in PA and/or increases in sedentary time. Interindividual variability was found for EI and EE. Nevertheless, behavioral compensations and the interindividual variability should be considered when implementing WL interventions, to increase the likelihood of achieving sustainable results. (clinicaltrials.gov ID: NCT03031951).

Preventing type 2 diabetes: A research agenda for behavioural science.

AIMS: The aim of this narrative review was to identify important knowledge gaps in behavioural science relating to type 2 diabetes prevention, to inform future research in the field. METHODS: Seven researchers who have published behaviour science research applied to type 2 diabetes prevention independently identified several important gaps in knowledge. They met to discuss these and to generate recommendations to advance research in behavioural science of type 2 diabetes prevention. RESULTS: A total of 21 overlapping recommendations for a research agenda were identified. These covered issues within the following broad categories: (a) evidencing the impact of whole population approaches to type 2 diabetes prevention, (b) understanding the utility of disease-specific approaches to type 2 diabetes prevention such as Diabetes Prevention Programmes (DPPs) compared to generic weight loss programmes, (c) identifying how best to increase reach and engagement of DPPs, whilst avoiding exacerbating inequalities, (d) the need to understand mechanism of DPPs, (e) the need to understand how to increase maintenance of changes as part of or following DPPs, (f) the need to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of alternative approaches to the typical self-regulation approaches that are most commonly used, and (g) the need to address emotional aspects of DPPs, to promote effectiveness and avoid harms. CONCLUSIONS: There is a clear role for behavioural science in informing interventions to prevent people from developing type 2 diabetes, based on strong evidence of reach, effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. This review identifies key priorities for research needed to improve existing interventions.

Moving from one state to another among patients experiencing unexplained chest pain during physical activity: A secondary qualitative analysis by Meleis transition theory.

BACKGROUND: Unexplained chest pain is a common condition in medical settings. Nurses usually coordinate the rehabilitation of patients. Physical activity is recommended; however, it is one of the major avoidance behaviours in patients with coronary heart disease. There is a need for a deeper understanding of the transition that patients with unexplained chest pain undergo during physical activity. AIM: To develop deeper understanding about experiences of transition in patients with unexplained chest pain during physical activity. DESIGN: Secondary qualitative analysis of data from three exploratory studies. METHOD: Meleis et al.'s transition theory was used as a framework for the secondary analysis. FINDINGS: The transition was complex and multidimensional. The participants experienced personal processes of change toward health within the illness, corresponding to indicators of healthy transitions. CONCLUSION: The process can be identified as a transition from an uncertain and often sick role to a healthy role. Knowledge regarding transition promotes a person-centred approach in which patients' perspectives are included. Nurses and other health professionals can better direct and plan the caring and rehabilitation of patients with unexplained chest pain by deepening their knowledge of the transition process based on physical activity.

Programa de exercícios físicos por telerreabilitação em idosos com doença de Parkinson: um estudo experimental / Telerehabilitation exercise program in elderly people with Parkinson's disease: an experimental study

INTRODUÇÃO: As restrições durante a pandemia do COVID-19 limitaram o acesso a centros de reabilitação especializados para tratamento fisioterapêutico de pessoas com Doença de Parkinson (DP). Sabe-se que a falta de exercícios físicos pode agravar as condições de saúde, levar à piora dos sinais típicos da doença e promover o declínio funcional. A telerreabilitação é uma estratégia que pode restaurar o acesso e facilitar a continuidade de assistência fisioterapêutica. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar os efeitos de um programa de exercícios físicos por telerreabilitação no nível de atividade física, no desempenho funcional de Membros Inferiores (MMII), no desempenho nas atividades de vida diária (AVD's) e na qualidade de vida (QV) em idosos com DP. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo experimental, descritivo, longitudinal, em que foram avaliados os efeitos da intervenção por telerreabilitação composta por 12 sessões de 1 hora, feitas 3 vezes/semana, realizada estatística analítica para fins comparativos pelo Teste t de Student. RESULTADOS: 22 participantes concluíram o estudo. Foi observada mudança significativa no nível de atividade física (IPAQ inicial de 0,18 ±0,39 e final de 1,0 ± 0, p = 0,0001), no desempenho funcional dos MMII (teste de sentar e levantar cinco vezes (TSLCV) tempo médio pré 16,22 ± 7.41, e após 12.26 ± 2.83, p= 0,0197), no desempenho nas atividades de vida diária (Brazilian OARS Multidimensional Functional Assessment Questionnaire (BOMFAQ) de 26,13 ± 6,31 e após de 35,45 ± 5,16, p = 0,0001) e na QV dos idosos com DP (PDQ-39 inicial de 45,92 ±15,36 e final de 23,63 ± 10,19, p = 0,0001). CONCLUSÃO: Concluise que houve mudança no nível de atividade física, no desempenho funcional de MMII, no desempenho nas AVD's e na QV.

INTRODUCTION: Restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic limited access to specialized rehabilitation centers for physical therapy treatment of people with Parkinson's disease (PD). It is known that lack of exercise can worsen health conditions, lead to worsening typical signs of the disease, and promote functional decline. Telerehabilitation is a strategy that can restore access and facilitate the continuity of physical therapy care. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effects of a telerehabilitation exercise program on the level of physical activity, functional capacity of lower limbs, performance of activities of daily living (ADLs) and quality of life (QoL) in elderly patients with PD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is an experimental, descriptive, exploratory, longitudinal study, in which the effects of intervention by telerehabilitation were evaluated, the program was composed of 12 sessions of 1 hour, 3 times a week. Analytical statistics was done for comparative purposes by Student's t test. RESULTS: 22 participants completed the study. Significant change was observed in physical activity level (IPAQ initial 0.18 ±0.39 and final 1.0 ± 0, p = 0.0001), in the functional capacity of lower limbs (5 times sit and stand test (TSLCV) mean time pre 16.22 ± 7.41, and post 12.26 ± 2. 83, p= 0.0197), in the performance in the activities of daily living (Brazilian OARS Multidimensional Functional Assessment Questionnaire (BOMFAQ) of 26.13 ± 6.31 and after of 35.45 ± 5.16, p = 0.0001) and in the QL of the elderly with PD (PDQ-39 initial of 45.92 ±15.36 and final of 23.63 ± 10.19, p = 0.0001). CONCLUSION: We conclude that there was a change in the level of physical activity, in the functional capacity of lower limbs, in the performance of ADLs and in QL.

Blood glucose response to running or cycling in individuals with type 1 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

AIMS: The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess how running and cycling influence the magnitude of blood glucose (BG) excursions in individuals with type 1 diabetes. METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted in EMBASE, PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ISI Web of Knowledge for publications from January 1950 until February 2021. Parameters included for analysis were population (adults and adolescents), exercise type, intensity, duration and insulin preparation. The meta-analysis was performed to estimate the pooled mean with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of delta BG levels. In addition, sub-group and meta-regression analyses were performed to assess the influence of these parameters on delta BG. RESULTS: The database search identified 3192 articles of which 69 articles were included in the meta-analysis. Due to crossover designs within articles, 151 different results were included for analysis. Data from 1901 exercise tests of individuals with type 1 diabetes with a mean age of 29 ± 4 years were included. Overall, exercise tests BG decreased by -3.1 mmol/L [-3.4; -2.8] within a mean duration of 46 ± 21 min. The pooled mean decrease in BG for running was -4.1 mmol/L [-4.7; -2.4], whilst the pooled mean decrease in BG for cycling was -2.7 mmol/L [-3.0; -2.4] (p < 0.0001). Overall results can be found in Table S2. CONCLUSIONS: Running led to a larger decrease in BG in comparison to cycling. Active individuals with type 1 diabetes should be aware that current recommendations for glycaemic management need to be more specific to the mode of exercise.

COVID-19 Pandemic Associations on Mental and Physical Health in African Americans Participating in a Behavioral Intervention.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had disproportionate effects on communities of color, with higher death rates among African Americans (AA). The purpose of this study was to assess associations in African Americans' mental and physical health with the COVID-19 pandemic. Data for this study came from a larger nutrition intervention of AAs in the Southeastern United States, the Nutritious Eating with Soul study. Data collected before and after March 15, 2020 (the day when local South Carolina schools and businesses closed), were analyzed to assess the association of the pandemic on participants' stress, control of healthy eating, physical activity, and body mass index. Repeated measures analysis of covariance using full maximum likelihood estimation to handle missing data was used. At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, 150 participants were enrolled in the study (48.2 ± 10.6 years old, 79% female, 75% with college degree or higher). Participants' reporting of stress did not show statistically significant change over time. Cognitive control increased 1.43 points (F = 20.60, p < 0.0001) and body mass index increased 0.72 kg/m2 (F = 10.68, p = 0.001). Future longitudinal studies should investigate how the COVID-19 pandemic continues to present challenges to understanding and improving health among African Americans. The study is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT03354377.

Reassured on a background of vulnerability - people with microvascular angina 12 months after high-intensity physical exercise program.

PURPOSE: Physical activity is recommended for patients with coronary microvascular dysfunction, however, avoided due to fear about the heart. The aim is to achieve an understanding of the meaning of physical activity one year after participating in a high-intensity exercise training program. METHOD: Twelve people were interviewed using a phenomenological hermeneutic approach. RESULTS: Four themes were formulated and revealed that one year after participating in high-intensity exercise training participants had an awareness of the meaning of the project, their chest pain and daily life: Being reassured, Daily life's impact on chest pain and continuing doing high-intensity exercise training, A strengthened body and mind, Being part of a group of people with similar problems.Comprehensive understanding was formulated as "Being reassured according being physically active in a background of vulnerability". CONCLUSION: This study indicates that by going through the high-intensity exercise training program the person regains more unity with the lived body and an unfolding life. A person-centred approach is suggested including an underlying dimension of vulnerability. A lifeworld led care means meeting the patient in their way of relating to the world bodily and existentially. Taking this understanding into consideration will advance the requirements for establishing person-centred care.

Physiological monitoring of intensity training in female wrestlers / Monitoramento fisiológico no treino físico de intensidade em lutadoras femininas / Monitoreo fisiológico en el entrenamiento físico de intensidad en las luchadoras femeninas

ABSTRACT Introduction Currently, female wrestling has become one of the potential advantages in the Olympic Games, which has also allowed the sport to receive more attention. Physiological monitoring in intense physical training in female wrestlers is still little explored despite its importance in training conduction. Objective Explore special intensity physical training effects on female wrestlers through physiological monitoring. Methods Literature search, expert interview, and an experimental method conducted a situation analysis on 2-month training for 8 female wrestling team athletes, specific contents also included: analysis of female wrestlers' body composition, changes in serum testosterone levels, and variations in cortisol levels. Results During the two-month training period, the various athletes' physiological indicators underwent noticeable changes, remaining at the top of the normal range. Most of the athletes could adapt to the training load and intensity in this phase. Serum testosterone, cortisol, and hemoglobin levels in early athletes increased significantly. However, as training progresses, all indicators decrease, showing that the adaptability of the athlete's body is consolidated. The hemoglobin content increased in most of the athletes, showing that the athlete's own intensity of physical training was high. Conclusion The above physiological indicators can reflect the physical function of the athletes, providing a theoretical basis for coaches to develop evidence-based training plans. Evidence Level II; Therapeutic Studies - Investigating the result.

RESUMO Introdução Atualmente, a luta livre feminina tornou-se uma das vantagens potenciais dos Jogos Olímpicos, o que também permitiu que o esporte recebesse maior atenção. O monitoramento fisiológico no treino físico de intensidade em lutadoras femininas ainda é pouco explorado apesar da sua importância na condução do treinamento. Objetivo Explora os efeitos do treinamento físico especial para a intensidade em lutadoras femininas através de monitoramento fisiológico. Métodos Pesquisa literária, entrevista com especialistas e o método experimental levaram a uma análise da situação sobre o treinamento de 2 meses para 8 atletas da equipe de luta livre feminina, os conteúdos específicos incluíram: análise da composição corporal das lutadoras, alterações nos níveis séricos de testosterona e variações nos níveis de cortisol. Resultados Durante o período de dois meses de treinamento, os vários indicadores fisiológicos das atletas sofreram alterações perceptíveis, permanecendo no limite alto da faixa normal. A maioria das atletas pode se adaptar à carga e intensidade do treinamento nesta fase. Os níveis de testosterona sérica, cortisol e hemoglobina nas atletas precoces aumentaram significativamente. Porém, à medida que o treinamento progride, todos os indicadores diminuem, mostrando que a adaptabilidade do corpo da atleta é consolidada. O conteúdo de hemoglobina aumentou na maioria das atletas, mostrando que o treino físico de intensidade da própria atleta foi elevado. Conclusão Os indicadores fisiológicos acima podem refletir a função física das atletas, fornecendo uma base teórica para que os treinadores possam desenvolver planos de treinamento baseados em evidências. Nível de evidência II; Estudos Terapêuticos - Investigação de Resultados.

RESUMEN Introducción En la actualidad, la lucha femenina se ha convertido en una de las ventajas potenciales de los Juegos Olímpicos, lo que también ha permitido que este deporte reciba más atención. El seguimiento fisiológico en el entrenamiento físico de intensidad en las luchadoras es todavía poco explorado a pesar de su importancia en la conducción del entrenamiento. Objetivo Explorar los efectos del entrenamiento físico especial para la intensidad en las luchadoras a través de la monitorización fisiológica. Métodos La investigación bibliográfica, la entrevista a expertos y el método experimental condujeron a un análisis de situación sobre 2 meses de entrenamiento de 8 atletas del equipo femenino de lucha, los contenidos específicos incluían: análisis de la composición corporal de las luchadoras, cambios en los niveles séricos de testosterona y variaciones en los niveles de cortisol. Resultados Durante los dos meses de entrenamiento, los diversos indicadores fisiológicos de los atletas sufrieron cambios notables, manteniéndose en el extremo superior del rango normal. La mayoría de los atletas pudieron adaptarse a la carga e intensidad del entrenamiento en esta fase. Los niveles de testosterona, cortisol y hemoglobina en suero de los primeros atletas aumentaron significativamente. Sin embargo, a medida que el entrenamiento avanza, todos los indicadores disminuyen, lo que demuestra que la adaptabilidad del cuerpo del atleta se consolida. El contenido de hemoglobina aumentó en la mayoría de los atletas, lo que demuestra que el entrenamiento físico de intensidad propia fue alto. Conclusión Los indicadores fisiológicos anteriores pueden reflejar la función física de los atletas, proporcionando una base teórica para que los entrenadores desarrollen planes de entrenamiento basados en pruebas. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - Investigación de resultados.

Effect of Whole-body Vibration on Depression, Anxiety, Stress, and Quality of Life in College Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Objectives: To determine the effects of whole-body vibration (WBV) training on depression, anxiety, stress, and quality of life (QoL) in college students. Methods: The participants comprised college students who led physically inactive lifestyles as revealed by their Medical Outcomes Study Form 36 (SF-36) scores, and with elevated scores of Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS) test. They were randomly allocated to two groups of 15 each: (a) the WBV group (male = 3, female = 12) and (b) the exercise group (male = 6, female = 9). The participants in the WBV group performed prescribed exercises while they stood on a vibrating platform whereas those in the exercise group performed the same exercises but without the vibrating platform. After four weeks of twice-a-week training, DASS and SF-36 were measured. The pre- and post-scores were compared between the groups. Results: Depression (p < 0.001), anxiety (p < 0.001), and stress (p < 0.001) were found to reduce significantly for the WBV group compared to the exercise group. There was also significant within-group improvement in all the components of SF-36 (p < 0.040). Conclusions: Exercising on the WBV platform may reduce depression, anxiety, and stress in college students and improve their overall QoL.

Compensatory effects of different exercise durations on non-exercise physical activity, appetite, and energy intake in normal weight and overweight adults.

Objectives: To examine compensatory changes of different exercise durations on non-exercise physical activity (NEPA), appetite, and energy intake (EI) in normal and overweight adults, and to determine if different body mass index of individuals interact with these compensatory effects. Methods: Ten normal weight adults (nine females and one male; age: 24.0 ± 0.4 years; BMI: 20.7 ± 0.5 kg/m2) and ten overweight adults (six females and four males; age: 24.5 ± 0.9 years; BMI: 25.9 ± 0.4 kg/m2) participated in this study. The participants completed two exercise trials: short-duration continuous training (SDCT) and long-duration continuous training (LDCT), i.e., a 40 min short-duration and an 80 min long-duration continuous training in a randomized order. Total physical activity and NEPA were monitored using an accelerometer for seven consecutive days, which involved a two-day baseline observation period (C-pre-Ex), three-day exercise intervention period (Ex), and two-day follow-up period (C-post-Ex). Blood samples were collected for appetite-related hormone analysis. Appetite score was assessed using the visual analogue scale. Energy intake was evaluated by weighing the food and recording diaries. Results: The NEPA evaluation showed that it was higher for SDCT than for LDCT in the C-post-Ex period (F (1, 19) = 8.508, p = 0.009) in the total sample. Moreover, results also indicated that NEPA was lower for LDCT (F (2, 18) = 6.316, p = 0.020) and higher for SDCT (F (2, 18) = 3.889, p = 0.026) in the C-post-Ex period than in the C-pre-Ex and Ex periods in overweight group. Acyl-ghrelin revealed a main effect of time in the total sample and in normal weight and overweight groups; it was lower in the C-post-Ex period than in the C-pre-Ex and Ex periods (all p < 0.05). Total EI analysis revealed no significant changes in either the total sample or in the normal weight and overweight groups. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that short duration exercise led to a compensatory increment in NEPA, whereas long duration exercise induced a compensatory decrease in NEPA. Moreover, there was a higher and delayed compensatory response in overweight adults than in normal weight adults. Nevertheless, energy intake was not changed across time, regardless of exercise duration.

Low-Income, Older African Americans' Engagement in and Perceptions of a Smartphone-Based Ecological Momentary Assessment Study of Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Smartphone-based ecological momentary assessment (EMA) methods can provide novel insights into modeling and predicting activity-related behaviors, yet many racial and ethnic minority groups report barriers to participating in mobile health research. We aim to (a) report on strategies used to successfully recruit and retain minority older adults in a smartphone-based physical activity and sedentary behavior EMA study and (b) report on participants' perceptions of study acceptability. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: Researchers partnered with trusted individuals and community organizations serving older adults to facilitate recruitment for an 8-day EMA study of minority older adults' physical activity and sedentary behavior. Additional strategies such as having experienced, culturally competent team members and available technical support were employed to further recruitment and retention efforts. A poststudy questionnaire assessed participants' perceptions of study acceptability. RESULTS: In total, 123 minority older adults were recruited, 102 met inclusion criteria, 91 completed the study, and 89 completed the poststudy questionnaire. The sample consisted of predominantly low-income African American women with an average age of 70 years. Responses to open-ended questions revealed that the most enjoyable aspects of study participation were the ability to learn more about themselves, contribute to science and/or their community, engage in a new activity, and receive financial compensation. Participants reported the least enjoyable aspects of the study included the frequency of EMA questionnaires, apprehension of missing EMA questionnaires, carrying the smartphone, and difficulty wearing the accelerometer. Most participants (97%) expressed interest in being contacted for future studies. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: Low-income, older African Americans reported positive perceptions of a smartphone-based EMA study of physical activity and sedentary behavior. Findings suggest that applying demonstrated strategies to engage this population in technology-based health research can enhance recruitment and retention efforts; however, it is unclear which strategies are most effective in reducing participation barriers.

Beliefs about the Benefits and Barriers to Physical Activity Promotion for Cancer Patients among Nurses in Malaysia

@#Introduction: Physical activity (PA) can improve survival and quality of life in chronic diseases including cancer. Given the scarcity of research on nurses’ beliefs that used a psychology perspective, the purpose of this study was to determine nurses’ beliefs about the benefits and barriers to physical activity promotion for cancer patients at a tertiary teaching hospital in Malaysia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed on nurses (n=104) at one Malaysian tertiary teaching hospital, using a simple random sampling method. A self-administered online questionnaire was surveyed from January until March 2021. The data was analysed using Pearson correlation analysis and an independent T-test with a significant level of p ≤.0.05. Results: 80.8% of nurses perceived the benefits of physical activity promotion for improving mental health in cancer patients. Lack of time (30.8%), patients appearing tired or unwilling to cooperate (20.2%), and a lack of knowledge (16.3%) were the barriers to physical activity. There was no correlation between beliefs about the benefits of physical activity promotion and age (p=0.908), working experience (p=0.982), ward type (p=0.666) or the average number of cancer patients cared (p=0.144). Conclusion: Nurses’ perspectives on the benefits of physical activity promotion for cancer patients support the use of planned behaviour theory for evidence-based nursing practice. There were, however, barriers to encouraging cancer patients to engage in physical activity. As a result, as a setting for health promotion, the tertiary teaching hospital must raise awareness, facilitate, and encourage nurses to engage in physical activity promotion behaviours.

Group-Based Exercise in CKD Stage 3b to 4: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE: We aimed to test interventions to improve physical activity in persons with advanced chronic kidney disease not yet receiving dialysis. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial with parallel-group design. SETTING & PARTICIPANTS: We embedded a pragmatic referral to exercise programming in high-volume kidney clinics servicing diverse populations in San Jose, CA, and Atlanta, GA. We recruited 56 participants with estimated glomerular filtration rates < 45 mL/min/1.73 m2. INTERVENTIONS: We randomly assigned participants to a mobile health (mHealth) group-wearable activity trackers and fitness professional counseling, or an Exercise is Medicine intervention framework (EIM) group-mHealth components plus twice-weekly small-group directed exercise sessions customized to persons with kidney disease. We performed assessments at baseline, 8 weeks at the end of active intervention, and 16 weeks after passive follow-up and used multilevel mixed models to assess between-group differences. OUTCOMES: Activity tracker total daily step count. RESULTS: Of 56 participants, 86% belonged to a racial/ethnic minority group; randomly assigned groups were well balanced on baseline step count. In intention-to-treat analyses, the EIM and mHealth groups both experienced declines in daily step counts, but there was an attenuated reduction in light intensity physical activity (standard error 0.2 [5.8] vs -8.5 [5.4] min/d; P = 0.08) in the EIM compared with the mHealth group at 8 weeks. In as-treated analyses, total daily step count, distance covered, and light and moderate-vigorous activity minutes per day improved in the EIM group and declined in the mHealth group at 8 weeks (standard error +335 [506] vs -884 [340] steps per day; P = 0.05; P < 0.05 for secondary measures), but group differences faded at 16 weeks. There were no differences in quality-of-life and mental health measures during the study. LIMITATIONS: Small sample size, limited duration of study, assessment of intermediate outcomes (steps per day). CONCLUSIONS: A clinic-integrated referral to small-group exercise sessions is feasible, safe, and moderately effective in improving physical activity in an underserved population with high comorbid conditions. FUNDING: Normon S Coplon Applied Pragmatic Clinical Research program. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT03311763.

Continuous Aerobic Training and High Intensity Interval Training Increase Exercise Tolerance in Heart Failure Patients: A Retrospective Study

Abstract Background: Conventional aerobic training is the first choice in cardiac rehabilitation for patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). However, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) may be an alternative, although it has little evidence. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of continuous aerobic training (CAT) or HIIT on exercise tolerance in CHF patients. Methods: Retrospective study with 30 patients, of both genders, members of a 10-week CAT or HIIT program. The control group (CON) consisted of patients who did not participate voluntarily in the program. Peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak), thresholds (LV1 and LV2), and ventilatory efficiency in the production of dioxide (VE/VCO2 slope), oxygen uptake efficiency (OUES), and VO2 recovery kinetics were analyzed. A two-way or repeated measures ANOVA was used, followed by Fisher's post-hoc test (p<0.05). Results: After 10 weeks of training, the CAT group increased the treadmill speed at LV1 (p=0.040), while the HIIT increased both the speed (p=0.030) and incline of the treadmill (p<0.001) for VO2peak and LV2, as well as the total time of the cardiopulmonary test. The VE/VCO2 slope was lower than that predicted for CAT (p=0.003) and HIIT (p=0.008). There was no change in VO2peak, recovery of heart rate (HR), and VO2, VE/VCO2, and OUES in both groups. Conclusions: After 10 weeks, both CAT and HIIT increased the tolerance to physical exercise. However, HIIT showed improvement in more parameters, differently from CAT.

Diabetes prevention interventions for women after gestational diabetes mellitus: an overview of reviews.

AIMS: To present an overview of reviews of interventions for the prevention of diabetes in women after gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) with the overall aim of gaining information in order to establish local interventions. METHODS: Six databases were searched for quantitative, qualitative or mixed-methods systematic reviews. All types of interventions or screening programmes were eligible. The outcomes were effectiveness of reducing diabetes incidence, encouraging healthy behavioural changes and enhancing women's perceptions of their increased risks of developing type 2 diabetes following GDM. RESULTS: Eighteen reviews were included: three on screening programmes and seven on participation and risk perceptions. Interventions promoting physical activity, healthy diet, breastfeeding and antidiabetic medicine reported significantly decreased incidence of postpartum diabetes, up to 34% reduction after any breastfeeding compared to none. Effects were larger if the intervention began early after birth and lasted longer. Participation in screening rose up to 40% with face-to-face recruitment in a GDM healthcare setting. Interventions were mainly based in healthcare settings and involved up to nine health professions, councillors and peer educators, mostly dieticians. Women reported a lack of postpartum care and demonstrated a low knowledge of risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes. Typical barriers to participation were lack of awareness of increased risk and low levels of support from family. CONCLUSIONS: Lifestyle interventions or pharmacological treatment postpartum was effective in decreasing diabetes incidence following GDM. Women's knowledge of the risk of diabetes and importance of physical activity was insufficient. Early face-to-face recruitment increased participation in screening. Programmes aimed at women following a diagnosis of GDM ought to provide professional and social support, promote screening, breastfeeding, knowledge of risk factors, be long-lasting and offered early after birth, preferably by face-to-face recruitment.

Change in GPS-assessed walking locations following a cluster-randomized controlled physical activity trial in older adults, results from the MIPARC trial.

This study employed novel GPS methods to assess the effect of a multilevel physical activity (PA) intervention on device-measured walking locations in 305 community dwelling older adults, ages 65+ (mean age = 83, 73% women). Retirement communities were randomized to a 1-year PA intervention that encouraged neighborhood walking, or to a healthy aging control condition. Total time and time spent walking in four life-space domains were assessed using GPS and accelerometer devices. The intervention increased the time spent walking as a proportion of total time spent in the Campus, Neighborhood and Beyond Neighborhood domains. Intervention effects on walking location were observed in both genders and across physical and cognitive functioning groups. Results demonstrate that an intervention providing individual, social and environmental support for walking can increase PA in larger life-space domains for a broad spectrum of older adults.

Efeitos do Exercício Aeróbico Tardio na Remodelação Cardíaca de Ratos com Infarto do Miocárdio Pequeno / Effects of Late Aerobic Exercise on Cardiac Remodeling of Rats with Small-Sized Myocardial Infarction

Resumo Fundamento: O exercício físico tem sido considerado uma importante terapia não farmacológica para a prevenção e tratamento das doenças cardiovasculares. No entanto, seus efeitos na remodelação cardíaca leve não são claros. Objetivo: Avaliar a influência do exercício aeróbico sobre a capacidade funcional, estrutura cardíaca, função ventricular esquerda (VE) e expressão gênica das subunidades da NADPH oxidase em ratos com infarto do miocárdio pequeno (IM). Métodos: Três meses após a indução do IM, ratos Wistar foram divididos em três grupos: Sham; IM sedentário (IM-SED); e IM exercício aeróbico (IM-EA). Os ratos se exercitaram em uma esteira três vezes por semana durante 12 semanas. Um ecocardiograma foi realizado antes e após o treinamento. O tamanho do infarto foi avaliado por histologia e a expressão gênica por RT-PCR. O nível de significância para análise estatística foi estabelecido em 5%. Resultados: Ratos com IM menor que 30% da área total do VE foram incluídos no estudo. A capacidade funcional foi maior no IM-EA do que nos ratos Sham e IM-SED. O tamanho do infarto não diferiu entre os grupos. Ratos infartados apresentaram aumento do diâmetro diastólico e sistólico do VE, diâmetro do átrio esquerdo e massa do VE, com disfunção sistólica. A espessura relativa da parede foi menor no grupo IM-SED do que nos grupos IM-EA e Sham. A expressão gênica das subunidades NADPH oxidase NOX2, NOX4, p22phox e p47phox não diferiu entre os grupos. Conclusão: Infarto do miocárdio pequeno altera a estrutura cardíaca e a função sistólica do VE. O exercício aeróbico tardio pode melhorar a capacidade funcional e a remodelação cardíaca por meio da preservação da geometria ventricular esquerda. A expressão gênica das subunidades da NADPH oxidase não está envolvida na remodelação cardíaca, nem é modulada pelo exercício aeróbico em ratos com infarto do miocárdio pequeno.

Abstract Background: Physical exercise has been considered an important non-pharmacological therapy for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. However, its effects on minor cardiac remodeling are not clear. Objective: To evaluate the influence of aerobic exercise on the functional capacity, cardiac structure, left ventricular (LV) function, and gene expression of NADPH oxidase subunits in rats with small-sized myocardial infarction (MI). Methods: Three months after MI induction, Wistar rats were divided into three groups: Sham; sedentary MI (MI-SED); and aerobic exercised MI (MI-AE). The rats exercised on a treadmill three times a week for 12 weeks. An echocardiogram was performed before and after training. The infarction size was evaluated by histology, and gene expression was assessed by RT-PCR. The significance level for statistical analysis was set at 5%. Results: Rats with MI lower than 30% of the LV total area were included in the study. Functional capacity was higher in MI-AE than in Sham and MI-SED rats. The infarction size did not differ between groups. Infarcted rats had increased LV diastolic and systolic diameter, left atrial diameter, and LV mass, with systolic dysfunction. Relative wall thickness was lower in MI-SED than in the MI-AE and Sham groups. Gene expression of the NADPH oxidase subunits NOX2, NOX4, p22phox, and p47phox did not differ between groups. Conclusion: Small-sized MI changes cardiac structure and LV systolic function. Late aerobic exercise is able to improve functional capacity and cardiac remodeling by preserving the left ventricular geometry. NADPH oxidase subunits gene expression is not involved in cardiac remodeling or modulated by aerobic exercise in rats with small-sized MI.