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The current study analyzed the effects of positive versus negative self-talk on physical performance in soccer players from a multiprocess approach. We operationalized the process distinction using the need-for-cognition (NC) construct. Thus, NC was measured and self-talk (i.e., positive vs. negative) was manipulated between participants (i.e., 126 soccer players, age 18 years or older, who were competing in national, regional, or local competitions). Physical performance was assessed by a vertical-jump test. According to hypothesis, regression analyses indicated that positive versus negative self-talk influenced physical performance to a greater extent for high-NC individuals than for low-NC individuals. Specifically, among high-NC soccer players, relative to baseline, positive self-talk produced greater physical performance in the vertical-jump test than negative self-talk. In contrast, among low-NC soccer players, no difference was found between positive and negative self-talk on physical performance. These results supported the moderating role of NC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An approach for approximating position and orientation dependent translational and rotational diffusion coefficients of rigid molecules of any shape suspended in a viscous fluid under geometric confinement is proposed. It is an extension of the previously developed scheme for evaluating near-wall diffusion of macromolecules, now applied to any geometry of boundaries. The method relies on shape based coarse-graining combined with scaling of mobility matrix components by factors derived based on energy dissipation arguments for Stokes flows. Tests performed for a capsule shaped molecule and its coarse-grained model, a dumbbell, for three different types of boundaries (a sphere, an open cylinder, and two parallel planes) are described. An almost perfect agreement between mobility functions of the detailed and coarse-grained models, even close to boundary surfaces, is obtained. The proposed method can be used to simplify hydrodynamic calculations and reduce errors introduced due to coarse-graining of molecular shapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indigenous Peoples have an inherent responsibility and right to "exercising" sovereignty—the practice of sport and physical activity in performance of our cultural, political, and spiritual citizenship. By exercising this inherent right and responsibility, sport has the power for communities to reenvision their futures. Sport and physical activity are highly regarded and practiced in multiple contexts within Indigenous communities. Utilizing Indigenous ways of knowing, practices of resurgence, Indigenous activism, and Indigenous responses to political and cultural injustices, we apply the five protective factors of "exercising" sovereignty, including community, relationality, strength, abundance, and resilience to analyze Indigenous sport research in North America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of the study was to understand how people with multiple sclerosis experience dual-tasking situations in their everyday lives. Methods: Focus groups involving a total of 11 individuals with multiple sclerosis (eight females and three males) participated in this qualitative inquiry. Participants were asked open-ended questions focused on the nature of and consequences around dual tasking when standing or walking. Reflexive thematic analysis was employed to examine the data. Results: Three themes were generated from the data: (a) Life Is a Dual Task, (b) The Social Divide, and (c) Sacrifices for Stability. Conclusions: This study highlights the significance and impact of dual tasking on the lived experience of adults with multiple sclerosis, furthering the need to more fully examine this phenomenon and potentially improve fall-prevention interventions and facilitate community participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the framework of an electron transport regime classification scheme, we aim to explore the boundaries that occur between the ballistic, collision-dominated, space-charge injection, and non-space-charge injection electron transport regimes that are experienced by an electron within a semiconducting device, mapping out where these different electron transport regimes are. We do this by determining the electron's mean free path and the relevant screening length. In order to make this analysis concrete, we perform this analysis for four representative semiconductor material systems, including silicon, gallium arsenide, the 4H-phase of silicon carbide, and the wurtzite phase of gallium nitride. The entire analysis is performed using a two-dimensional approach, this being representative of the electron transport that is experienced by an electron in the vicinity of a two-dimensional electron gas. Finally, following an evaluation of the dependence of the ballistic mobility on the device length scale for all four materials, an evaluation of the effective mobility as a function of the channel-length scale is pursued, a Matthiessen-rule based approach being employed for the purposes of this analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We develop a theory for the motion of a particle grafted with inhomogeneous bead-spring Rouse chains via the generalized Langevin equation (GLE), where individual grafted polymers are allowed to take different bead friction coefficients, spring constants, and chain lengths. An exact solution of the memory kernel K(t) is obtained for the particle in the time (t) domain in the GLE, which depends only on the relaxation of the grafted chains. The t-dependent mean square displacement g(t) of the polymer-grafted particle is then derived as a function of the friction coefficient γ0 of the bare particle and K(t). Our theory offers a direct way to quantify the contributions of the grafted chain relaxation to the mobility of the particle in terms of K(t). This powerful feature enables us to clarify the effect on g(t) of dynamical coupling between the particle and grafted chains, leading to the identification of a relaxation time of fundamental importance in polymer-grafted particles, namely, the particle relaxation time. This timescale quantifies the competition between the contributions of the solvent and grafted chains to the friction of the grafted particle and separates g(t) into the particle- and chain-dominated regimes. The monomer relaxation time and the grafted chain relaxation time further divide the chain-dominated regime of g(t) into subdiffusive and diffusive regimes. Analysis of the asymptotic behaviors of K(t) and g(t) provides a clear physical picture of the mobility of the particle in different dynamical regimes, shedding light on the complex dynamics of polymer-grafted particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present an in-depth analysis for entropy source based on optical physical unclonable functions (PUFs). The randomness of speckle patterns is elaborated essentially according to its statistical characteristics. Various factors affecting the source of entropy have been analyzed in detail, including wavefront modulation, sensitivity, and universality of the optical PUF, and bit-depth settings of captured speckle patterns. In view of the above considerations, we demonstrate that the entropy source can achieve an ultra-high min-entropy (>0.985 bits/bit) while maintaining a high extraction rate of 75% and also verify its independent and identically distributed nature. These results provide an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of the developed entropy source and offer a firm foundation for its practical use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schools can support physical education (PE) among students with mobility disabilities (SMDs). However, previous research has indicated that people and resources in the school environment have served as facilitators and barriers to engaging SMDs in PE. Thus, the purpose of this pragmatic, qualitative study was to explore physical educators' perceptions and experiences of teaching SMDs to learn how to develop a PE environment supportive of SMDs. Eleven K-8 PE teachers who taught SMDs engaged in semistructured interviews. A thematic analysis revealed three themes describing facilitators and barriers of a supportive PE environment for SMDs: (a) teacher planning, (b) students in the PE environment, and (c) resources and support. These findings provide context to PE environments for SMDs and highlight a need for increased communication and collaboration with students with or without mobility disabilities, training or professional development for PE teachers to develop skills for adapted PE, and financial and personnel support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prevalence and risk of poor psychological outcomes following rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) are not well‐established. Methods: Participants in this cross‐sectional, case‐control study (n = 713 survivors, 42.5% female; mean [SD] age, 30.5 [6.6] years; n = 706 siblings, 57.2% female; mean age, 32.8,[7.9] years) completed measures of neurocognition, emotional distress, and health‐related quality of life (HRQOL). Multivariable logistic regression models identified treatments, health behaviors, and chronic conditions associated with impairment. Results: Relative to siblings, more survivors reported neurocognitive impairment (task efficiency: 21.1% vs. 13.7%, emotional regulation: 16.7% vs. 11.0%, memory: 19.3% vs. 15.1%), elevated emotional distress (somatic distress: 12.9% vs. 4.7%, anxiety: 11.7% vs. 5.9%, depression: 22.8% vs. 16.9%) and poorer HRQOL (physical functioning: 11.1% vs. 2.8%, role functioning due to physical problems: 16.8% vs. 8.2%, pain: 17.5% vs. 10.0%, vitality: 22.3% vs. 13.8%, social functioning: 14.4% vs. 6.8%, emotional functioning: 17.1% vs. 10.6%). Cranial radiation increased risk for impaired task efficiency (odds ratio [OR], 2.30; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14–4.63), whereas chest and pelvic radiation predicted increased risk of physical functioning (OR, 2.68; 95% CI, 1.16–6.21 and OR, 3.44; 95% CI, 1.70–6.95, respectively). Smoking was associated with impaired task efficiency (OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.14–3.70), memory (OR, 2.23; 95% CI, 1.26–3.95), anxiety (OR, 2.71; 95% CI, 1.36–5.41) and depression (OR, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.01–3.11). Neurologic conditions increased risk of anxiety (OR, 2.30; 95% CI, 1.04–5.10), and hearing conditions increased risk of depression (OR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.05–3.03). Neurologic and hearing conditions, respectively, were associated with impaired memory (OR, 2.44; 95% CI, 1.20–4.95 and OR, 1.87; 95% CI, 1.05–3.35) and poor health perception (OR, 2.62; 95% CI, 1.62–1.28 and OR, 2.33; 95% CI, 1.34–4.06). Conclusions: RMS survivors are at significant risk for poor psychological outcomes. Advancing therapies for local control, smoking cessation, and managing chronic medical conditions may mitigate poor outcomes following RMS. Research on psychological outcomes following pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma is scarce, limiting the understanding of the prevalence of and risk factors for neurocognitive impairment, emotional distress, and quality of life among survivors. This study showed that rhabdomyosarcoma survivors are at significant risk for poor psychological outcomes, and advancing therapies for local tumor control, smoking cessation, and managing chronic medical conditions may be important for mitigating risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have reported that polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB) and betaine solution and gels remove biofilm, improve wound healing and reduce infection rates. Quality of life (QoL) outcomes are not commonly reported on when it comes to wound care. This review aims to summarise QoL data from a cohort of case studies previously published on chronic lower limb ulcers using PHMB products (Prontosan® Solution, Prontosan® Wound Gel X and Prontosan® Debridement Pad). Here, we report on and review a total of 38 case studies describing 56 wounds. From these 38 case studies, 36 reported that all the wounds involved had either healed or improved by the end of their respective study period. QoL themes explore malodour, slough, and exudate, pain, mobility, hair growth, antibiotic intake, return to work, social life and mood. This case series demonstrates that treatment with Prontosan® products improves many QoL outcomes for patients with non-healing wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (T), estradiol (ES), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in master sprint (MS) and master endurance (ME) athletes. Additionally, the possible associations between these hormones, body composition, and lipid profile with athletic performance (% of performance in relation to the current world record) were analyzed. Materials andMethods: The participants were all men: (i) 34 MS (51.0 ± 6.8 years); and (ii) 32 ME (51.7 ± 9.4 years). Student's t-tests for independent samples were performed to compare all variables between groups. Results: MS had a significantly higher (p =.008) average IGF-1 (154.78 ± 29.85 ng/mL) when compared to ME (129.92 ± 25.48 ng/mL). Performance was significantly correlated with IGF-1 (r = 0.424). The MS group had a moderately lower body fat than ME athletes (MS 12.54 ± 4.07 vs. ME 14.60 ± 4.12; p =.078; d = 0.503). Conclusions: Thus, strength/power training exercise/sport seems to be more beneficial for obtaining a higher IGF-1 compared to aerobic/distance exercise/sport. In addition, LH, T, ES, and SHBG were similar between the two groups of athletes and were comparable to the reference values of younger adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Identify the effects of engagement with different intervention delivery channels on physical activity (PA), and the participant subgroups engaging with the different channels, among Women's Health Initiative Strong and Healthy (WHISH) PA trial participants. Design: Secondary analysis of data from WHISH, a pragmatic trial that used passive randomized consent. Setting: United States (remote intervention in all 50 states). Sample: 18,080 U.S. women, aged 68-99 years, assigned to the WHISH PA intervention arm. Measures: 6 dichotomous variables operationalized engagement: Engagement with Targeted Inserts, Email (opened), Email (clicked links), Website (logging in), Website (tracking), Interactive Voice Response (IVR). PA was measured using the CHAMPS PA questionnaire. Analysis: Linear regressions evaluated effects of engagement on PA. Conditional Inference Trees identified subgroups of participants engaging with different channels based on demographic and psychosocial variables. Results: Engagement with each channel, except IVR, was associated with significantly more hours/week of PA (square root coefficients.29 -.13, P values <.001). Consistently across channels, features that identified subgroups of participants with higher engagement included younger age, and higher levels of PA and physical function. Subgroups with the highest engagement differed from those with the lowest in most participant characteristics. Conclusions: For equitable population-level impact via large-scale remotely-delivered PA programs, it may be necessary to identify strategies to engage and target harder to reach subgroups more precisely. Clinical Trial Registration: The WHISH trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (No. NCT02425345). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we explored the immediate and three-month follow-up effects of physical training on physical fitness in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We randomly assigned 20 children with ASD (age 8–11 years) into an experimental group (EG; n = 10) and a control group (CG; n = 10). The EG participated in an 8-week training program involving both strength and proprioceptive exercises (three 60-minute sessions/week), while the CG simply maintained their daily activities. We assessed physical fitness components for each participant at baseline, post-training, and at a 3-month follow-up. The physical training intervention significantly improved physical fitness of these children with ASD in terms of their flexibility (p <.001; 32.46%), lower limbs strength (p =.003; 36.98%), lower body power (p <.001; 41.78%) and functional mobility (p <.001; 25.56%). However, these addition training-induced gains were lost at follow-up for lower limbs strength (p <.001), flexibility (p <.001), and functional mobility (p =.034)). Physical training was effective for improving physical fitness in children with ASD, but the loss of these gains at three months follow-up underscored the need for continuous physical exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stroke is a global health concern causing significant mortality. Survivors face physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges, affecting their life satisfaction and social participation. Robot-assisted gait training with virtual reality, like Lokomat, is a promising rehabilitation tool. We investigated its impact on cognitive status, activities of daily living, and quality of life in individuals with stroke. Between September 2022 and August 2023, we exposed 34 first stroke patients (8 women, 26 men; M age = 59.15, SD = 11.09; M height = 170.47, SD = 8.13 cm; M weight = 75.97; SD = 10.87 kg; M days since stroke = 70.44, SD = 33.65) in the subacute stage (3–6 months post-stroke) to Lokomat exercise. Participant exclusion criteria were Lokamat exercise inability, disabilities incompatible with intended measurements, and any cognitive limitations. The Control Group (CG) received conventional physiotherapy, while the Lokomat Group (LG) received both conventional physiotherapy and robot-assisted gait training with virtual reality, administered by an occupational therapist. Evaluations were conducted by a physiotherapist who was unaware of the participants' group assignments and included assessments with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Lawton Brody Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale, and Stroke Specific Quality of Life Scale (SS-QoL). Both groups demonstrated an improved quality of life, but the LG outperformed the CG with regard to SS-QoL (p =.01) on measures of Energy (p =.002) and Mobility (p =.005). Both groups showed improvements in cognitive functioning (p <.001) with no between-group difference, and in activities of daily living (p <.05) for which the LG was superior to the CG (p =.023). Thus, adding robot-assisted gait training with Lokomat and virtual reality improved self-reported quality of life and daily activities at levels beyond conventional physiotherapy for patients in the subacute stroke phase. An incremental impact on cognitive functions was not evident, possibly due to rapid cognitive recovery or this was undetected by limited cognitive testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ageing, sex and polypharmacy affect physical function. Objectives: This mouse study investigates how ageing, sex and polypharmacy interact and affect grip strength, balance beam and wire hang, correlating and comparing the different test results between and within subgroups. Methods: Young (2.5 months) and old (21.5 months) C57BL/6 J male and female mice (n = 10–6/group) were assessed for physical function at baseline on grip strength, balance beam and wire hang with three trials of 60 s (WH60s) and one trial of 300 s (WH300s). Mice were randomised to control or diet containing a high Drug Burden Index (DBI, total anticholinergic and sedative drug exposure) polypharmacy regimen (metoprolol, simvastatin, citalopram, oxycodone and oxybutynin at therapeutic oral doses). Following 6–8 weeks of treatment, mice were reassessed. Results: High DBI polypharmacy and control mice both showed age group differences on all tests (p < 0.05). Only control mice showed sex differences, with females outperforming males on the WH60s and balance beam for old mice, WH300s for young mice (p < 0.05). Polypharmacy reduced grip strength in all subgroups (p < 0.05) and only in old females reduced wire hang time and cumulative behaviour and balance beam time and %walked (p < 0.05). Physical function assessments were all correlated with each other, with differences between subgroups (p < 0.05), and mice within subgroups showed interindividual variability in performance. Conclusion: Age, sex and polypharmacy have variable effects on different tests, and behavioural measures are useful adjuvants to assessing performance. There was considerable within‐group variability in change in measures over time. These findings can inform design and sample size of future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the (1) six-month outcomes of individuals with lateropulsion; (2) the relationship between baseline measures (from in-patient hospitalisation) and six-month functional abilities; and (3) recovery patterns for lateropulsion in stroke survivors. Forty-one individuals with lateropulsion participated in this study. Measures of lateropulsion, postural function, and weight-bearing asymmetry in standing were taken initially and fortnightly over eight weeks. Functional independence and walking abilities were assessed at six months post-stroke. Compared to individuals with moderate to severe lateropulsion, those with mild lateropulsion achieved higher levels of functional outcome at six months. However, there were a wide range of scores. Baseline lateropulsion severity explained 26% of the variation in functional outcome. A stronger correlation with functional outcome was observed for lateropulsion (−0.526) than function independence at baseline (0.384). For the task of standing with arm support, patterns of asymmetry were divergent at baseline, favouring either the paretic or non-paretic leg. Over the eight-week period, asymmetry moved towards the non-paretic leg and lateropulsion reduced consistently. Individuals with lateropulsion can recover from lateropulsion and make meaningful functional gains, including some individuals with more severe lateropulsion. Lateropulsion severity is a key indicator of functional outcome post-stroke. Individuals with lateropulsion can make significant gains in terms of mobility and functional abilities by six months post-stroke, learning to compensate for their verticality impairment in standing by loading their non-paretic leg. It is important that stroke survivors with lateropulsion, including those with moderate and severe lateropulsion, are provided with adequate rehabilitation to optimise their longer-term mobility and functional abilities. Routine screening of acute stroke survivors for lateropulsion is recommended, given lateropulsion may negatively impact longer-term functional outcomes in stroke survivors. Therapists should carefully analyse the weight-bearing pattern which an individual with lateropulsion adopts in standing and subsequently tailor treatment to target this. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effects of exercises by mechanical hippotherapy devices on postural control, balance, mobility, and Quality of Life in patients with stroke. This was a randomized controlled clinical trial with a total of 30 which were randomly divided into two groups. The participants in the mechanical hippotherapy group (MHG) (n = 15) were given exercises with a mechanical hippotherapy device for 15 min in addition to intensive conventional treatments (45 min), while the control group (CG) (n = 15) received additional 15 min of postural control and balance exercises for five days per week for four consecutive weeks. The primary outcome was The Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Secondary outcomes were the Fugl–Meyer (FM) Rating Scale, Biodex Balance Measurement (BBM), Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS), the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) and quality of Life Short Form (SF-36). In the MHG, FM-Lower extremity score (−6.4, p = 0.024), FM-Upper extremity score (−12.87, p = 0.013), TIS (−5.87, p = 0.04) and TUG (5.73, p = 0.027) improved statistically significant compared to CG. Exercises using mechanical hippotherapy devices could improve postural control, functional mobility and balance in patients with stroke. It may also improve the quality of life. NCT03528993 NCT03528993 It was concluded from our results that mechanical hippotherapy could be included in the treatment programs of stroke patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the longitudinal assessment of step-up performance in patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty (TJA) and correlation with subjective patient reported outcome measures (PROMs). In this sub-analysis of the ADAPT study, PROMs were assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Block step-up (BS) transfers were assessed by wearable-derived measures of time. 76 patients undergoing TJA were included. Subgroups were formed isolating the worst performing quartile (low functioning (LF)) from the high functioning (HF), and outcomes were compared– One-year post-surgery, WOMAC function demonstrated strong correlations to WOMAC pain (Pearson's r = 0.67–0.84) and moderate correlations to BS performance (Pearson's r = 0.31–0.54). Both WOMAC and BS significantly improved with a larger effect size for the HF subgroup (0.62 vs. 0.43; p < 0.05). Patients designated to the LF subgroup at 3 months had increased odds of representing the LF subgroup at 12 months (WOMAC = 19; BS = 4). WOMAC defined 18 LF patients at 12 months follow-up. BS performance identified 9 additional LF patients. WOMAC function scores seem pain dominated. Measures of BS performance allow assessment of otherwise hidden residual functional impairment. Lower functioning 3 months post-surgery is predictive of longer-term impairment. Severe hip or knee osteoarthritis is a disabling condition which not only impacts patients' mobility but restricts quality of life due to constant pain and consequential lifestyle changes. Total joint arthroplasty (TJA) has developed into a successful intervention for patients with advanced hip or knee osteoarthritis. Some patients are dissatisfied after TJA due to residual functional impairment and the inclusion of performance-based tests in the post-operative evaluation and rehabilitation allows for the assessment of otherwise hidden residual impairment. Early detection of functional impairment using the repeated block step-up (BS) transfers allows to facilitate more targeted rehabilitation for better functional outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

different populations have different averages of life-space assessment scores and defining cutoff values of clinical significance by each population should take into consideration. Different cutoffs to define restricted life space have been reported. The most common is a score of 60 points. There are other cutoffs derived from receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and used to classify older adults according to their ability in activities of daily living (ADLs) (52.3 points) or instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) (56 points); other cutoffs are specialized for people with cognitive impairment (26.75 points) or people with spinal cord injury who need mobility aids (78.5 points). The aims were to identify cutoff points of Life Space Assessment (LSA) in older adults in different sites and to determine the relationship of the cutoff scores with mobility disability and depression. The study population was composed of community-dwelling adults aged 65–74 years who were not institutionalized. An ROC analysis was constructed, and the area under the curve (AUC) was calculated to identify the optimal cutoff that discriminates life-space restriction for each city. Logistic regressions were executed by site to comprehend the association among restricted LSA and mobility disability and depression. In total, 1890 participants were included in the analyses (52.38% women, 37.19% mobility disability and 21.32% had depression). Canada cities had the highest cutoff, while Tirana and Natal had the lowest cutoff (< 50). Kingston was the site with the highest association between life-space restriction and mobility disability (OR 5.4, 95% CI 2.9–10). Saint-Hyacinthe, Tirana, and Manizales had significant associations between depression and restricted life space (OR 3.25, 95% CI 1.53–6.89, OR 3.14, 95% CI 1.88–5.24, and OR 3.99, 95% CI 2.28–6.98, respectively). Different cutoffs to define restricted life-space have been identified in elderly people at different sites. The analysis of the relationship between the restricted life space and personal characteristics like depression and mobility disability supported these findings. The groupings produced by the cutoff points for each site showed notable variations. These findings emphasize the importance of population-based cutoffs to improve the general applicability of LSM criteria and take into consideration the importance of site-specific approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To report the treatment effects of early use kinesiotaping on pain, range of motion, mobility, and edema outcomes following total knee arthroplasty. Data Sources: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMED, SPORTDiscus, Biosis Citation Index, and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature were searched for potential randomized control trials from inception to 8 January 2024. Review Methods: Randomized control trials evaluating the effect of kinesiotaping published in English were included. Reference lists for relevant reviews were searched. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool. Certainty of evidence was determined using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. Results: Seven articles totaling 534 participants were included for meta-analysis. Kinesiotaping with standard rehabilitation when compared to standard rehabilitation alone had very low certainty of evidence in pain and knee flexion range of motion. Kinesiotaping was favored at post-operative days two to four for pain (P = 0.03, standard mean difference = −0.77 [−1.45, −0.09]) and range of motion (P = 0.002, standard mean difference = −0.24 [−0.44, −0.03]). Kinesiotaping was favored at post-operative days six to eight for pain (P = 0.02, standard mean difference = −0.76 [−1.41, −0.12]) and range of motion (P = 0.04, standard mean difference = −0.63 [−1.22, −0.04]). Edema and mobility could not be meta-analyzed. Conclusion: The use of kinesiotaping early in post-operative rehabilitation could be a useful modality for reducing pain and increasing the range of knee flexion, however, the certainty of evidence is very low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Supervised online exercise training (OET) may help to counteract physical inactivity in healthy older adults. Few studies to date have compared the effect of OET and traditional face-to-face exercise training (TET). Aims: With this study we compared the effect of OET and TET on physical function in healthy older adults and investigated the feasibility of OET. Methods: Power analysis indicated that a sample size of n = 20 per group was necessary to detect a moderate effect size. Of 80 individuals potentially interested in the study, 32 did not meet the inclusion criteria and 22 declined participation; 26 were assigned to receive OET via Zoom© and 19 to receive TET twice a week for 12 weeks. The exercise training program was the same for both groups: fine finger and muscle strengthening and balance exercises. Performance was measured using the 400-m Walk, Timed Up and Go, Four Square Step, One Leg Stance, Five Time Chair Stand, and Hand Grip tests. Results and conclusions: In general, physical function was improved after OET and TET (ηp2 range, 0.349–0.642). No improvement in upper limb strength was observed in either group (p > 0.05), whereas endurance on the 400-m Walk Test was increased for the OET group and decreased for the TET group (Time × Group interaction F 5.540, ηp2 0.187; p = 0.007). Good adherence was noted for the OET group (82%). No adverse events during the 12-week study period were recorded. Our findings suggest a positive effect of exercise training on physical function over time, regardless of how delivered. OET was found to be feasible and acceptable, making it a viable alternative to conventional exercise programs for older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Combat sports practices during childhood and adolescence are accompanied by several beneficial effects. During this phase, the maturity status and timing play an important role for the young athletes and must be considered in youth training programs, especially for those who are about to start (or have already started) formal training and competitions. Aims: This scoping review aimed to explore the influence of maturation level on development of physical performance in combat sports athletes in grappling groups (judo, jiu-jitsu, and wrestling). Methods: "combat sports" or "judo" or "Brazilian jiu-jitsu" or "wrestling" and "maturation" or "growth" or "puberty" and "anthropometric" and "physical performance." We followed five sequential methodological stages of: (1) identifying the research question, (2) identifying relevant studies, (3) selecting studies, (4) charting the data, and (5) collating, summarizing, and reporting the results. Results: A total of 11 studies were included, most of which used cross-sectional designs, focused on male judo athletes and investigated several physical tests and somatic maturation indicators (e.g., peak height velocity or predicted adult height). The main physical tests of participants were the maximal isometric handgrip strength test, vertical jump, and medicine ball throw test. Conclusion: Maturity status and timing significantly influence the development of physical performance in young grappling athletes, particularly in judo, wrestling, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Training experience, chronological age, and body size and composition also influence the physical performance in these athletes groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Sensory stimulation affects physical function; however, the type and range of physical function change remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the type and extent of changes in simple physical functions resulting from exposure to color and taste stimuli. Methods: Five basic colors (red, blue, yellow, green, and black) and foods representative of the five basic tastes (sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami) were used as stimuli. Three different physical function tests on muscle strength (grip strength), flexibility (bending length), and balance (stabilometer trajectory area) were performed while wearing color-tinted goggles or after tasting food stimuli. All the stimuli tests were performed in 1 day and repeated for 6 successive days each for color and taste stimuli. Results: Each stimulus had a different effect on the participants. For color stimulation, the median change ratio between the minimum and maximum effects was 5.68% (4.14–8.07%) for muscle strength, 8.52% (5.11–13.39%) for flexibility, and 30.60% (26.81–36.18%) for balance. The corresponding values for taste stimulation were 4.96% (3.67–7.89%), 6.11% (4.37–8.86%), and 28.92% (21.38–34.01%). The rate of change in balance was the highest among the three physical tests and was significantly different from the rate of change in other physical functions (balance vs. muscle power, P < 0.001; balance vs. flexibility, P < 0.001). Conclusion: Color and taste stimuli have different effects on physical function, with individual-level differences in sensitivity to stimuli. Sensory stimuli may affect individual physical functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A majority of individuals living in the United States do not meet recommended physical activity guidelines, despite the numerous physical and mental health benefits. Previous research suggests there are numerous barriers to performing physical activity, but there is less research on how these barriers cluster together; particularly in non-clinical samples. Methods: Data for this study were collected from Amazon's Mechanical Turk (MTurk) and undergraduate students (n = 500 and 720, respectively). Participants completed questionnaires on barriers to physical activity and physical activity performance. Results: Latent class analysis suggested three classes of barriers (low, medium, high) in both samples. Work commitments, a lack of time, disability or injury, and other priorities cited as the main barriers in the medium and high barriers classes. Conclusion: A lack of time is frequently cited as a common barrier in this study and the extant literature. Future research may want to focus on time-efficient physical activity programs to reduce this barrier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The torque–duration relationship in muscle group exercise is characterized by two parameters, the critical torque (CT) and the W prime (Wʹ), which define the limit of tolerance. These parameters have significant utility in assessing health and disease. However, there is a lack of information regarding the optimization of CT and/or Wʹ gains through manipulation of resistance training (RT) variables, especially in older adults. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the impact of different intensities of RT, specifically higher intensity RT (HIRT) versus lower intensity RT (LIRT), on CT and Wʹ in postmenopausal women. Methods: The study spanned 12 weeks of RT. Postmenopausal women were randomized into three groups: control group (CG, n = 14), LIRT (loads necessary to perform 27–31 repetitions, n = 17), and HIRT (loads necessary to perform 8–12 repetitions, n = 14). Results: Compared to the CG group, the LIRT group exhibited a significant increase in CT (15%, P < 0.05), while the HIRT group showed a significant increase in Wʹ (36%, P < 0.05). Conclusions: Different intensities of RT result in distinct adaptations of torque–duration relationship parameters (Wʹ and CT) in postmenopausal women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES: Vibration therapy uses vibration to rehabilitate physical functions. Recently, it has been demonstrated to be safe for critically ill patients. However, its effects on physical functions are unclear. DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial. SETTING: A single-center, ICU. PATIENTS: Patients were randomly assigned to either vibration therapy coupled with protocolized mobilization or protocolized mobilization alone. We included patients who could sit at the edge of the bed or in a wheelchair during their ICU stay. The exclusion criteria were based on the early mobilization inhibition criteria. INTERVENTIONS: The primary outcome was the Functional Status Score for the ICU (FSS-ICU) at ICU discharge. Secondary outcomes were the Medical Research Council score, ICU-acquired weakness, delirium, ICU Mobility Scale (IMS), and ventilator- and ICU-free days. For safety assessment, vital signs were monitored during the intervention. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Among 180 patients, 86 and 90 patients remained in the vibration therapy and control groups, respectively. The mean age was 69 ± 13 vs. 67 ± 16 years in the vibration therapy and control groups, and the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score was 19 (14-25) vs. 18 (13-23). The total FSS-ICU at ICU discharge was 24 (18-27) and 21 (17-26) in the intervention and control groups, respectively (p = 0.09), and the supine-to-sit ability significantly improved in the intervention group (p < 0.01). The secondary outcomes were not significantly different. Vital signs remained stable during vibration therapy. In the predefined subgroup analysis, FSS-ICU improved in the population with a higher body mass index (≥ 23 kg/m²), lower APACHE II scores (< 19), and higher IMS scores (≥ 6). CONCLUSIONS: Vibration therapy did not improve the total FSS-ICU. However, the supine-to-sit ability in the FSS-ICU improved without any adverse event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES: To ascertain whether a mobile patient lift facilitates early mobilization in ventilated ICU patients. DESIGN: A single-center, open-label, randomized controlled trial. SETTING: An academic ICU in Tokyo. PATIENTS: Eighty patients were admitted to ICU and expected ventilation for at least 48 hours. INTERVENTIONS: In the intervention group, in addition to the rehabilitation protocol received by the control group, patients were assisted in sitting, standing, transfers, and walking using the mobile patient lift. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: The intervention group predominantly stood faster than the control group (1.0 vs. 3.0 d, p < 0.01). The Intervention group also had significantly higher Functional Status Score-ICU scores at ICU discharge. However, the Medical Research Council score and Barthel index at discharge, length of ICU stay, and number of ventilator-free days did not differ between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: The use of mobile patient lifts facilitates the earlier standing of patients on ventilators. This may contribute to patients improved physical function in the ICU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ovarian cancer, a leading cause of cancer deaths, poses challenges due to insidious development and vague signs and symptoms. Risk factors include age, reproductive history, genetic mutations, and environmental factors. Treatment involves surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy, with nursing interventions focusing on symptom management and supportive care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of neuropathic pain (NP) in burn patients is reported in the literature to be as high as 80% 1 . Given the complexity of NP in burn patients and the wide range of treatments available, a systematic review of the literature is warranted to summarize our current understanding of management and treatment of NP in this population. This systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. The following databases were queried to identify relevant articles: PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, Scopus, Ovid, and Web of Science. The main outcome measures were incidence and management of NP. Secondary outcomes included risk factors for NP. Included articles presented findings from 11 different countries, capturing outcomes for 4366 patients. Risk factors for neuropathic pain in burn patients were identified, including older age, alcohol and substance abuse, current daily smoking, greater % total body surface area burns (TBSA), and longer hospitalizations. Pharmacologic treatments included gabapentin/pregabalin (n = 7), ascorbic acid (n = 1), and lidocaine (n = 1). Overall, the studies showed varied results regarding the efficacy of pharmacological treatments. While certain studies demonstrated gabapentanoids to be effective in reducing neuropathic symptoms, others found conflicting results. With regards to non-pharmacologic treatments, electroconvulsive therapy (n = 1), electropuncture (n = 1), nerve release/reconstruction (n = 2), and somatosensory feedback rehabilitation (n = 1) were used and demonstrated promise in reducing pain intensity and improving functionality. Despite NP afflicting the majority of burn patients long after their injury, this systematic review demonstrates insufficient evidence on the pathophysiology, outcomes, and risk factors in NP, as well as the efficacy of various therapies. Future prospective and randomized studies evaluating the etiology of these factors can substantially improve our treatment strategies. This can allow for the development of well-delineated and evidence-based protocols in NP management in hopes of improving quality of life and both psychological and physical function in burn patients. • Neuropathic pain (NP) is a common and debilitating condition in burn patients. • Risk factors for NP include age, alcohol/substance use, and burn severity. • Evidence remains insufficient or understanding NP's mechanisms and treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Long-term therapeutic options providing durable response and tolerability are needed for psoriatic arthritis (PsA). The ongoing KEEPsAKE 2 trial is evaluating risankizumab treatment in patients with active PsA who previously had inadequate response/intolerance to ≥ 1 conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (csDMARD-IR) and/or 1–2 biologic DMARDs (bDMARD-IR). Herein, we report results through 100 weeks of treatment. Methods: KEEPsAKE 2 is a global phase 3 trial. Patients with active PsA were randomized 1:1 to double-blind subcutaneous risankizumab 150 mg or placebo (weeks 0, 4, and 16). At week 24, all patients received open-label risankizumab every 12 weeks until end of study. Efficacy endpoints included achieving ≥ 20% improvement in PsA symptoms using American College of Rheumatology criteria (ACR20), attaining minimal disease activity (MDA; meeting ≥ 5/7 criteria of low disease activity and extent), and improving in other measures. Results: At the cutoff date, 345/443 (77.9%) patients were ongoing in the study. ACR20 was achieved in 57.1% and 52.5% of the continuous risankizumab and placebo/risankizumab cohorts, respectively, at week 100 and in 60.0% and 55.8%, respectively, at week 52. In week 52 responders, maintenance of ACR20 at week 100 was achieved in 74.8% (continuous risankizumab) and 78.7% (placebo/risankizumab) of patients. In the continuous risankizumab and placebo/risankizumab cohorts, respectively, MDA was achieved by 33.0% and 33.3% of patients at week 100 and by 27.2% and 33.8% at week 52. Among MDA responders at week 52, maintenance of MDA response was achieved by 83.6% and 73.0% of the continuous risankizumab and placebo/risankizumab cohorts, respectively. Risankizumab was well tolerated through week 100. Conclusions: Risankizumab demonstrated durable efficacy and tolerability through 100 weeks; most patients who achieved ACR20 and MDA responses at week 52 maintained this achievement through week 100. There were no new safety signals in patients who had csDMARD-IR and bDMARD-IR. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03671148. Plain Language Summary: Risankizumab, a biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug, helps control the body's immune system to reduce symptoms of psoriatic arthritis (a disease that inflames the joints of people who have the skin condition psoriasis). The ongoing KEEPsAKE 2 study is evaluating how well risankizumab works and how safe it is for treating adult patients with active psoriatic arthritis who previously experienced inadequate response to one or more specific types of disease-modifying anti-arthritis drugs. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either risankizumab or an inactive drug; after 24 weeks, all patients received risankizumab. At study week 100, 57% of patients who were assigned to receive continuous risankizumab since the start of the study experienced a 20% or more improvement in a measure of psoriatic arthritis symptoms using criteria established by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR20); a similar proportion of patients achieved a 20% improvement at both weeks 24 and 52. Similarly, 56% and 53% of patients who switched from inactive drug to risankizumab achieved ACR20 at weeks 52 and 100 (more than before switching to risankizumab at week 24). Minimal disease activity (MDA) was evaluated by assessing joint and skin symptoms, affected body surface area, pain, and physical function. At week 100, 33% of patients achieved MDA (both groups), which was similar to week 52. Most patients who achieved ACR20 or MDA at week 52 maintained responses at week 100. Improvements with risankizumab were seen in several other measures of treatment outcomes through week 100. Risankizumab was generally safe through 100 weeks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) require treatment providing durable long-term efficacy in different disease domains as well as safety. We present 100-week efficacy and safety results of risankizumab in patients with active PsA and previous inadequate response/intolerance to ≥ 1 conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (csDMARD-IR). Methods: KEEPsAKE 1 (NCT03675308) is a global phase 3 study, including a 24-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled and ongoing open-label extension periods. Patients were randomized 1:1 to receive risankizumab 150 mg or placebo at baseline and weeks 4 and 16. After week 24, all patients received open-label risankizumab every 12 weeks thereafter. Patients were evaluated through 100 weeks. Endpoints included achieving ≥ 20% reduction in American College of Rheumatology criteria for symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (ACR20), minimal disease activity (MDA; defined as ≥ 5/7 criteria of low disease activity and extent), and other measures. Results: Overall, 828/964 (85.9%) patients completed week 100. For patients receiving continuous risankizumab, 57.3%, 70.6%, and 64.3% achieved ACR20 at weeks 24, 52, and 100, respectively. For the placebo/risankizumab cohort, 33.5% achieved ACR20 at week 24 but increased after switching to active treatment at weeks 52 (63.7%) and 100 (62.1%). In ACR20 responders at week 52, 81.2% of both treatment cohorts maintained response at week 100. MDA was achieved by 25.0%, 38.3%, and 38.2% of the continuous risankizumab cohort at weeks 24, 52, and 100. In the placebo/risankizumab cohort, 10.2% achieved MDA at week 24, increasing at weeks 52 (28.0%) and 100 (35.2%). MDA response was maintained at week 100 in week 52 responders in the continuous risankizumab (75.5%) and placebo/risankizumab cohorts (78.2%). Similar trends were observed for other efficacy measures. Risankizumab was generally well tolerated through 100 weeks. Conclusions: For patients with active PsA who are csDMARD-IR, risankizumab demonstrated durable long-term efficacy and was generally well tolerated, with a consistent long-term safety profile. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT03675308. Plain Language Summary: Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) often affects individuals with the skin condition psoriasis. A biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug can help control inflammation and regulate the immune system to ease symptoms and slow progression of PsA. The ongoing KEEPsAKE 1 study is evaluating the efficacy and safety of risankizumab in patients with active PsA who previously have not had success with ≥ 1 conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drug. Patients were initially treated with risankizumab 150 mg (continuous risankizumab group) or inactive drug (inactive drug/risankizumab group). After 24 weeks, all received risankizumab for the rest of the study. At week 100, 64% (continuous risankizumab group) and 62% (inactive drug/risankizumab group) of patients had ≥ 20% improvement in PsA symptoms (measured using American College of Rheumatology [ACR20] criteria). Both groups showed similar percentages at week 52 and improvement from week 24. In patients who achieved ACR20 at week 52, 81% maintained their ACR20 response at week 100. Minimal disease activity was defined as a combination of joint and skin symptoms, affected body surface area, pain, and physical functioning. At week 100, 38% of the continuous risankizumab group and 35% of the inactive drug/risankizumab group achieved minimal disease activity. Percentages were similar at week 52 and higher than week 24 in both groups. In patients who achieved minimal disease activity at week 52, 81% maintained response at week 100. All other measures of treatment responses showed similar patterns from the start of risankizumab through week 100. Risankizumab was considered generally safe by the treating physicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Critically ill patients often experience distressful and impactful symptoms and conditions that include pain, agitation/sedation, delirium, immobility, and sleep disturbances (PADIS). The presence of PADIS can affect recovery and long-term patient outcomes. An integral part of critical care nursing is PADIS prevention, assessment, and management. Ethical sensitivity of everyday nursing practice related to PADIS is an imperative part of implementing evidence-based care for patients. Objective: The first 2 aims of this study were to determine the measured level of ethical awareness as an attribute of ethical sensitivity among the critical care nurse participants and to explore the ethical sensitivity of critical care nurses related to the implementation of PADIS care. The third aim was to examine how the measured level of ethical awareness and ethical sensitivity exploration results converge, diverge, and/or relate to each other to produce a more complete understanding of PADIS ethical sensitivity by critical care nurses. Methods: This was a convergent parallel mixed methods study (QUAL + quant). Ethical sensitivity was explored by conducting an ethnography of critical care nurses. The participants were 19 critical care nurses who were observed during patient care, interviewed individually, participated in a focus group (QUAL), and were administered the Ethical Awareness Scale (quant). Findings: Despite high levels of individual ethical awareness among nurses, themes of ambiguous beneficence, heedless autonomy, and moral distress were found to be related to PADIS care. Conclusions: More effort is needed to establish moral community, ethical leadership, and individual ethical guidance for nurses to establish patient-centered decision-making and PADIS care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sarcopenia may increase non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) risk, but prevalence likely varies with different diagnostic criteria. This study examined the prevalence of sarcopenia and its defining components in adults with and without NAFLD and whether it varied by the method of muscle mass assessment [bioelectrical impedance (BIA) versus dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)] and adjustment (height2 versus BMI). Adults (n = 7266) in the UK Biobank study (45–79 years) with and without NAFLD diagnosed by MRI, were included. Sarcopenia was defined by the 2018 European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People definition, with low appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) assessed by BIA and DXA and adjusted for height2 or BMI. Overall, 21% of participants had NAFLD and the sex-specific prevalence of low muscle strength (3.6–7.2%) and sarcopenia (0.1–1.4%) did not differ by NAFLD status. However, NAFLD was associated with 74% (males) and 370% (females) higher prevalence of low ASM when adjusted for BMI but an 82% (males) to 89% (females) lower prevalence when adjusted for height2 (all P < 0.05). The prevalence of impaired physical function was 40% (males, P = 0.08) to 123% (females, P < 0.001) higher in NAFLD. In middle-aged and older adults, NAFLD was not associated with a higher prevalence of low muscle strength or sarcopenia but was associated with an increased risk of impaired physical function and low muscle mass when adjusted for BMI. These findings support the use of adiposity-based adjustments when assessing low muscle mass and the assessment of physical function in NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To understand and discuss the perceptions about fear of falling (FOF) in older adults without a history of falls. A qualitative study with a convenience sample consisting of 51 older adults. Data collection was out through semi-structured interviews during the Covid-19 pandemic. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Three themes were grouped: FOF and its repercussions; Reactions to FOF in the daily life of the pandemic; and No fear, but aware of aging. The older adults reported a fear of dependence, difficulties and cautious behaviors in activities of daily living and mobility in the community. Understanding FOF can contribute for your approach and building multidisciplinary and intersectoral strategies aimed at maintaining independence and strengthening the identity of older adults without a history of falls in the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Prevalence of total hip arthroplasty (THA) has trended upwards over past decades and is projected to increase further. Optimizing outcomes after surgery is essential to avoid surgical revision and maximize outcomes. Low back pain is reported as a problem post THA. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are commonly used to evaluate THA outcomes but have limitations (e.g., ceiling effects). It is therefore important to assess a comprehensive range of outcomes. Physical outcome measures of spinopelvic alignment and physical functioning demonstrate potential value, but no evidence synthesis has investigated their association with PROMs. The objectives of this systematic review are to evaluate the association between spinopelvic alignment and physical outcome measures of physical functioning with PROMs and characteristics of low back pain after THA. Methods and analysis: This protocol is aligned with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols. Cross-sectional and longitudinal cohort studies evaluating the association between the physical outcome measures and PROMs (any outcome measures reported) following THA by any approach/implant will be included except surface replacement and revision THA. Studies investigating THA for developmental pathology and inflammatory conditions will be excluded. A systematic search in MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, and the grey literature will be carried out from inception to July 31, 2023. Two independent reviewers will evaluate eligibility of retrieved articles, extract data and assess risk of bias (NIH quality assessment tool) of included studies. A third reviewer will mediate disagreements. Random-effects meta-analyses will be conducted if studies are sufficiently homogeneous in design, population, physical measures and PROMs; reporting odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Where meta-analyses are not possible, a narrative synthesis will be conducted. Confidence in cumulative evidence will be assessed using a modified GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation). PROSPERO registration number: PROSPERO Registration number CRD42023412744. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There is a substantial and progressive association between chronic pain (CP) and living with overweight or obesity. The relationship between obesity and CP is intricate and complex, with obesity being associated with increased pain-related disability, pain intensity, reduction in physical functioning and poorer psychological well-being. A Qualitative Evidence Synthesis (QES) provides an opportunity to better understand and reveal key areas within the patient experience of these complex interactions to inform best practice and future intervention design. Aims: The aim of this QES is to methodically and systematically review and synthesise the qualitative literature reporting on the personal experiences of people who are both living with obesity (PwO) and chronic pain. Methods: The phenomenon of interest of this QES is the lived experiences of PwO and CP. The following research question was developed using a modified Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome and Study type (PICOS) framework: "What are the lived experiences of people living with obesity and chronic pain?". One review author will conduct a systematic search based on keywords and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms for finding relevant articles in five peer-review databases, from inception to the date of searching. Two review authors will independently apply inclusion and exclusion criteria and screen articles in a two-stage process. The methodological quality of included studies will be assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool and data will be extracted using a customised template. We will undertake a thematic synthesis of qualitative data from included studies and report our findings narratively. Confidence in the findings will be assessed based on the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation Confidence in Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative Research (GRADE-CER-Qual) approach. Findings and dissemination: This study will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA) and Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) guidelines. It is anticipated that the findings of the review will facilitate a deep and broad understanding of the complex interactions between CP and obesity and will help inform best practice and future intervention design. Findings will be disseminated through journals that undergo peer review, presentations at conferences, engagement with public and patient advocacy groups, and social media. Ethics and dissemination: Ethical approval is not required to conduct this review. Trail registration: PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023361391. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quantification of peak locomotor demands has been gathering researchers' attention in the past years. Regardless of the different methodological approaches used, the most selected epochs are between 1-, 3-, 5- and 15-minutes time windows. However, the selection of these time frames is frequently arbitrary. The aim of this study was to analyse the peak locomotor demands of short time epochs (15, 30, 45, and 60 seconds) in women's football, with special emphasis over the high-speed metrics. During two seasons, the match physical performance of 100 female football players was collected with Global Positioning System units (STATSports Apex). Peak locomotor demands for the selected variables were calculated by using a 1-second moving average approach. For statistical procedures, linear mixed modelling was used, with total distance, high-speed running distance (>16 km∙h-1), sprint distance (>20 km∙h-1), and acceleration and deceleration distance (±2.26 m∙s-2) considered as the dependent variables and the epoch lengths (15, 30, 45, and 60 seconds) considered as the independent variables. A novel finding was the high ratio observed in the 15 seconds epochs of high-speed running distance and sprint distance (77.6% and 91.3%, respectively). The results show that most peak high-speed demands within 60 seconds are completed within just 15 seconds. Thus, intensity-related variables, such as high-speed metrics, would be better contextualised and adapted into training practices if analysed in shorter epoch lengths (15–30 seconds), while longer periods might be used for volume-related metrics (i.e., total distance), depending on the purpose of the analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate daily physical activity (PA) in relation to psychosocial factors, such as anxiety, depression and different types of coping strategies, as well as patient- and disease-related factors in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). Methods: Consecutive outpatients from the Groningen Leeuwarden AxSpA (GLAS) cohort completed the modified Short Questionnaire to assess health-enhancing PA (mSQUASH), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and Coping with Rheumatic Stressors (CORS) questionnaires, as well as standardized patient- and disease-related assessments. Univariable and multivariable linear regression analyses and comparison of lowest and highest PA tertiles were performed to explore associations between the HADS, CORS, patient- and disease-related factors and PA. Results: In total, 84 axSpA patients were included; 60% male, mean age 49 (SD ±14) years, median symptom duration 20 (25th-75th percentiles: 12–31) years, mean ASDAS 2.1 (±1.0). Higher PA levels were significantly associated with better scores on patient-reported disease activity (BASDAI), physical function (BASFI) and quality of life (ASQoL). Furthermore, higher levels of PA were associated with less impact of axSpA on wellbeing and lower HADS depression scores. In the multivariable linear regression model, less use of the coping strategy 'decreasing activities' (β: -376.4; p 0.003) and lower BMI (β:-235.5; p: 0.030) were independently associated with higher level of PA. Comparison of patients from the lowest and highest PA tertiles showed results similar to those found in the regression analyses. Conclusion: In this cohort of axSpA patients, higher levels of daily PA were associated with better patient-reported outcomes and lower depression scores. Additionally, the passive coping strategy "decreasing activities" and lifestyle factor BMI were independently associated with PA. Besides anti-inflammatory treatment, coping strategies and lifestyle should be taken into account in the management of individual axSpA patients. Incorporating these aspects into patient education could increase patient awareness and self-efficacy. In the future, longitudinal studies are needed to better understand the complex relationship between patient-, disease- and psychosocial factors associated with daily PA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this review is to conduct a comprehensive and systematic assessment of the efficacy of Yoga as an intervention for knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Methods: We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, and PEDro as of January 3, 2024. Retrieved a total of 200 articles. Standardised mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. Results: The study included a total of 8 trials and involved 756 KOA patients. The results indicated that compared to the control group, Yoga exercise showed significant improvements in alleviating pain (SMD = -0.92; 95% CI = -1.64 ~ - 0.20; P = 0.01, I2 = 94%), stiffness (SMD = -0.51; 95% CI = -0.91 ~ -0.12; P = 0.01; I2 = 66%) and physical function (SMD = -0.53; 95% CI = -0.89 ~ -0.17; P = 0.004; I2 = 59%) among KOA patients. However, there was no significant improvement observed in terms of activities of activity of daily living (ADL) (SMD = 1.03; 95% CI = -0.01 ~ 2.07; P = 0.05; I2 = 84%), and quality of life (QOL) (SMD = 0.21; 95% CI = -0.33 ~ 0.74; P = 0.44; I2 = 83%) with the practice of Yoga. Conclusions: In general, Yoga has been found to be effective in reducing pain and stiffness in KOA patients, it can also improve the physical function of patients. However, there is limited evidence to suggest significant improvements in terms of ADL and QOL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine whether Residential Immersive Life Skills programs (RILS) result in reliable change in autonomy and self-efficacy of youth with disabilities and whether gains persist over time. Sex differences and program response patterns were also examined. Autonomy from the ARC's Self-Determination Scale and self-efficacy from the General Self-Efficacy Scale were completed by participants at baseline, post-intervention, 3-month, and at 12-month follow-ups. Reliable change index was calculated and examined over time. Autonomy improved significantly following the completion of RILS program and gains persisted and increased at 12-month follow-up. Participants who reliably improved in autonomy (program-responders) also improved in self-efficacy. The program-responders began the program with significantly lower autonomy and self-efficacy scores at baseline and differed in personal factor relative to those who did not experience increased autonomy post-program (non-responders). There were sex differences in program response with more male participants responding to the program. RILS programs can result in sustained improvements in autonomy and self-efficacy. Urgency for change and personal needs/priorities may contribute to growth experiences. We recommend including a social connectedness module that formally facilitates friendships and social development to better meet the social needs of all youth, especially females with disabilities. Youth's autonomy improves following participation in Residential Immersive Life Skills programs. Over time, improvements in youth autonomy may lead to improvements in self-efficacy. It is important to measure gains over time as beneficial change increase over time. More male participants may experience outcome change in autonomy than female participants. Urgency for change and personal needs/priorities may contribute to growth experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genike, the imatinib (IM)-alpha form is widely used in the treatment of gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) patients in China. We wanted to investigate whether there are differences in IM plasma concentrations, adverse events, health-related quality of life (QOL) and outcomes between patients treated with Genike and Glivec. Thirty included GIST patients receiving IM treatment were matched to either Genike or Glivec according to gastrectomy, body weight, body surface area and sex. There was no statistically significant difference in IM trough plasma levels between the two groups. There were no significant differences in very common adverse events of IM between the Genike and Glivec groups. IM was well tolerated, although it was associated with a significant change in cognitive function (P < 0.001), fatigue (P = 0.015), pain (P = 0.015), nausea/vomiting (P = 0.029), insomnia (P = 0.019), diarrhea (P = 0.003) and financial difficulties (P < 0.001). Physical functioning, financial burden and insomnia were significantly different between the two groups (P = 0.026). Until Aug. 2022, there was no significant difference in time to imatinib treatment failure (TTF) between the two groups. In conclusion, there was no difference in IM plasma concentration and adverse events between Genike and Glivec. Both Genike and Glivec could partially decrease the QOL of GIST patients. Physical functioning was worse in Genike group than in Glivec group, while the economic burden and symptoms of insomnia in Glivec patients were worse. There was no significant difference in TTF between the two groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This is the first study to assess brain rs-FC in older masters athletes (MA). • Higher rs-FC within cognitive regions in MA compared to controls. • Higher rs-FC within motor regions in MA compared to controls. • Less rs-FC between cognitive and motor regions in MA compared to controls. • Aging-related rs-FC segregation patterns are attenuated in top-ranked athletes. Aging is characterized by a decline in physical and cognitive functions, often resulting in decreased quality of life. Physical activity has been suggested to potentially slow down various aspects of the aging process, a theory that has been supported by studies of Masters Athletes (MA). For example, MA usually have better cognitive and physical functions than age-matched sedentary and healthy older adults (OA), making them a valuable model to gain insights into mechanisms that promote physical and cognitive function with aging. The purpose of this study was to identify differences in resting-state functional connectivity (rs-FC) of motor and cognitive regions between MA and OA and determine if these differences in the resting brain are associated with differences in cognitive and physical performance between groups. Fifteen MA (9 males) and 12 age-matched OA (six males) were included. rs-FC images were compared to identify significant between-groups differences in brain connectivity. There was higher connectivity between the cognitive and motor networks for the OA group, whereas the MA group had stronger connectivity between different regions within the same network, both for the cognitive and the motor networks. These results are in line with the literature suggesting that aging reduces the segregation between functional networks and causes regions within the same network to be less strongly connected. High-level physical activity practiced by the MA most likely contributes to attenuating aging-related changes in brain functional connectivity, preserving clearer boundaries between different functional networks, which may ultimately favor maintenance of efficient cognitive and sensorimotor processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Physiotherapy interventions effectively improved fatigue and physical functioning in non-COVID patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis or chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). There is a research gap on the effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions versus drug management on ME/CFS in post-COVID-19 conditions (PCC). Methods: We planned a three-arm prospective randomized control trial on 135 PCC cases with ME/CFS who are diagnosed between 20 November 2023 and 20 May 2024 from a population-based cohort. The study aims to determine the effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions as adapted physical activity and therapeutic exercise (APTE) provided in institution-based care versus telemedicine compared with drug management (DM). Participants will be assigned to three groups with the concealed location process and block randomization with an enrollment ratio of 1:1:1. The post-treatment evaluation will be employed after 2 months of interventions, and follow-up will be taken after 6 months post-intervention. The Chalder fatigue scale will measure the primary outcome of fatigue. SF-36 and the disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) will measure the secondary outcome of physical functioning and episodic disability. Discussion: This study will address the research gap to determine the appropriate approach of physiotherapy or drug management for ME/CFS in PCC cases. The future direction of the study will contribute to developing evidence-based practice in post-COVID-19 condition rehabilitation. Trial registration: The trial is registered prospectively from a primary Clinical Trial Registry side of WHO CTRI/2024/01/061987. Registered on 29 January 2024. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Duke Activity Status Index (DASI) is a widely used tool to assess functional capacity among patients, but there is no Sinhala version validated for patients in Sri Lanka. This study aimed to cross-culturally adapt and test the validity and reliability of the Sinhala version of DASI (DASI-S). Methods: The translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the DASI questionnaire were conducted following the standard guidelines. It was pre-tested on ten pre-operative patients and further modified. The construct validity and reliability of DASI-S were evaluated by administering the modified final DASI-S, which comprised 12 items, along with the physical functioning sub-scale of the 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36), consisting of 10 items to eighty-one patients who were awaiting non-cardiac surgeries at university surgical wards, National Hospital of Sri Lanka (NHSL), and Colombo North Teaching Hospital (CNTH), Sri Lanka. Reliability was assessed through Cronbach alpha, while the validity was evaluated using factor analysis and Spearman's correlation. The ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Review Committee, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka. Results: The mean age of the participants was 46.2 (± 16.6) years and the majority were females (54.3%). The mean height, weight, and body mass index of the sample were 160.5 (± 9.6) cm, 60.3 (± 11.9) kg, and 23.4 (± 4.5) kgm−2 respectively. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the internal consistency of DASI-S was 0.861. The concurrent validity of DASI-S was substantiated by positively correlating (p < 0.01, rs = 0.466) with the physical sub-scale of SF-36. There was a significant difference (p < 0.01) in the total score of DASI-S between the two age groups. Conclusions: Sinhala version of the DASI appears to be a valid, reliable and easy-to-administer tool to assess functional capacity among patients who are awaiting non-cardiac surgeries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) is a skin inflammation caused by contact with urine or faeces or both. It has a negative effect on the patient's quality of life and is indicative of the care provided. However, globally there is a lack of empirical data on the prevalence of IAD. Aim: To identify, for the first time, the proportion of older adults in extended care settings in Ireland affected by IAD. Design: Cross-sectional, multisite, point prevalence survey, across three community extended care settings for older people in Ireland. Methods: Two clinical nurse specialists, using the Scottish Excoriation and Moisture Related Skin Damage Tool, identified the presence of IAD through clinical observation and visual skin inspection. IAD prevalence was calculated for the total population and incontinent population sets using percentages and confidence intervals (CI). Results: The prevalence of incontinence was 86.4% (n=165), a significantly higher proportion were female (P=0.003). The point prevalence of IAD across the total population and incontinent population was 11.5% (22/191; 95% CI, 7.4–19.9%) and 13.3% (22/164; 95% CI, 8.5–19.5%), respectively. Being incontinent was associated with being female, more dependent (Barthel), having possible cognitive impairment, poorer mobility (Braden and Waterlow) and a high risk of pressure ulcers (Waterlow). A logistic regression analysis found no predictor variables for IAD among the variables that met the cut-off point for this analysis. Conclusions: The study provides the first point prevalence empirical data on the occurrence of IAD in Ireland. It can inform decision-making on future planning and budgeting of new quality improvement projects and act as a benchmark for ongoing auditing of IAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is a common life-saving treatment for hematologic malignancies, though can lead to long-term functional impairment, fatigue, muscle atrophy, with decreased quality of life. Although traditional exercise has helped reduce these effects, it is inconsistently recommended and infrequently maintained, and most patients remain sedentary during and after treatment. There is need for alternative rehabilitation strategies, like neuromuscular electrical stimulation, that may be more amenable to the capabilities of hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients. Patients receiving autologous HCT are being enroled in a randomized controlled trial with 1:1 (neuromuscular electrical stimulation:sham) design stratified by diagnosis and sex. Physical function, body composition, quality of life, and fatigue are assessed prior to hematopoietic stem cell transplant (prior to initiating preparatory treatment) and 24±5 days post hematopoietic stem cell transplant (Follow-up 1); physical function and quality of life are also assessed 6-months post hematopoietic stem cell transplant (Follow-up 2). The primary outcome is between-group difference in the 6-minute walk test change scores (Follow-up 1—Pre-transplant; final enrolment goal N = 23/group). We hypothesize that 1) neuromuscular electrical stimulation will attenuate hematopoietic stem cell transplant-induced adverse effects on physical function, muscle mass, quality of life, and fatigue compared to sham at Follow-up 1, and 2) Pre-transplant physical function will significantly predict fatigue and quality of life at Follow-up 2. We will also describe feasibility and acceptability of neuromuscular electrical stimulation during hematopoietic stem cell transplant. This proposal will improve rehabilitative patient care and quality of life by determining efficacy and feasibility of a currently underutilized therapeutic strategy aimed at maintaining daily function and reducing the impact of a potent and widely used cancer treatment. This trial is registered with clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04364256). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this cross-sectional study, we determined the relative impact of long-term occupational exposure to pesticides on physical performance and perception of tiredness. Experimental data was collected in locus from agricultural communities and included surveys to assess the duration of exposure to pesticides, social status, habitual physical activity levels, presence of common mental disorders (CMD), and self-reported tiredness. Plasmatic cholinesterase (PChE), body composition and traditional functional performance tests (Handgrip strength–HGS; Time up and go–TUG; and Sit-to-stand—STS) were obtained. From the 127 individuals tested, cluster analysis yielded 80 individuals divided in Direct Exposed (n = 37) and Indirect Exposed (n = 43); Tired (n = 16), and Not Tired (n = 64). PChE values were within the reference values (5209.64–13943.53 U/L). Pesticide exposure had no influence on PChE levels, CMD or fatigue (p > 0.05), while Self-reported tiredness had (p < 0.05). Principal Component Analyses showed that HGS; STS and TUG (i.e., physical performance variables) are negatively influenced by two independent factors: pesticide exposure and self-reported tiredness. We conclude that chronic pesticide exposure and tiredness can negatively impact physical performance, independently, without clinically significant changes in PChE levels that is a biomarker used to track pesticide intoxication. Functional physical tests can be a useful tool to identify chronic pesticide exposure, and help with the limitations of commonly used parameters (i.e. PChE and CMD). Self-reported tiredness is a confounding variable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Physical activity (PA) declines with age despite the knowledge that physical inactivity is a leading cause of disease, death, and disability worldwide. To better tailor PA interventions to older adults, researchers are turning to the collaborative principles of co-design. The purpose of this systematic review was to compare the effectiveness of co-designed PA interventions and standard care for increasing PA and other health outcomes (i.e., physical function, quality of life, mental health, functional independence, attendance and attrition rates) in older adults. Methods: A search was conducted in MEDLINE, AgeLine, CINAHL, Embase, and SPORTDiscus. Records were screened by independent pairs of reviewers. Primary research studies conducted among community-dwelling older adults (age 60+) comparing co-designed PA interventions to standard care were considered for inclusion. Controls included wait-list control, usual care, sham interventions, PA interventions without the use of co-design, and no intervention. A random effects meta-analysis was conducted, and the standardized mean difference (SMD) was used to report effect estimates. Quality of evidence was rated using GRADE. Results: Of 16,191 studies screened, eight (N = 16,733) were included in this review. Most studies reported results favouring the effect of co-design on physical activity; however, only two studies (N = 433) could be pooled for meta-analysis resulting in a SMD of 0.28, (95% CI = -0.13 to 0.69; p = 0.19; I2 = 56%) immediately post-intervention. The GRADE quality of evidence was very low. The quantitative analysis of three studies reported improved physical function. Conclusion: This review did not demonstrate that co-designed PA interventions are more effective than standard care for increasing PA in older adults; however, evidence was limited and of very low quality. Further well-designed trials are warranted to better understand the impacts of co-designed PA interventions and how to best implement them into practice. Trial registration: PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022314217. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Accounting for more than 60% of cancer survivors, older (≥65 years) cancer survivors have a 2- to 5-fold risk of physical function impairment, compared to cancer-free peers. One strategy to improve physical function is dietary and resistance training interventions, which improve muscle strength and mass by stimulating muscle protein synthesis. The E-PROOF (E-intervention for Protein Intake and Resistance Training to Optimize Function) study will examine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a 12-week randomized controlled trial of an online, tailored nutritional and resistance training education and counseling intervention to improve physical function and associated health outcomes (muscle strength, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), self-efficacy, and weight management). Methods: In this study, 70 older cancer survivors will be randomized to one of two groups: experimental (receiving remote behavioral counseling and evidence-based education and resources), and control (general survivorship education). We will examine the intervention effects on physical function, muscle strength, HRQoL, self-efficacy, weight, and waist circumference during a 12-week period between the experimental and control groups. Three months following the end of the intervention, we will conduct a follow-up assessment to measure physical function, muscle strength, and HRQoL. Significance and impact: This study is the first synchronous, online protein-focused diet and resistance training intervention among older cancer survivors. This novel study advances science by promoting independent health behaviors among older cancer survivors to improve health outcomes, and provide foundational knowledge to further address this growing problem on a wider scale through online platforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the impact of four exercise modes (aerobic exercise, resistance exercise, aerobic combined with resistance multimodal exercise, and stretching) on the physical performance of cancer patients. Methods: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were exclusively collected from PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Library, with a search deadline of April 30, 2023. Different exercise interventions on the physical performance of cancer patients were studied, and the Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool was employed to evaluate the quality of the included literature. Data analysis was conducted using STATA 15.1 software. Results: This study included ten randomized controlled trials with a combined sample size of 503 participants. Network meta-analysis results revealed that aerobic combined with resistance multimodal exercise could reduce fat mass in cancer patients (SUCRA: 92.3%). Resistance exercise could improve lean mass in cancer patients (SUCRA: 95.7%). Furthermore, resistance exercise could enhance leg extension functionality in cancer patients with sarcopenia (SUCRA: 83.0%). Conclusion: This study suggests that resistance exercise may be more beneficial for cancer-related sarcopenia.In clinical practice, exercise interventions should be tailored to the individual patients' circumstances. Registration number: This review was registered on INPLASY2023110025; DOI number is https://doi.org/10.37766/inplasy2023.11.0025 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]