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AbstractPurposeMethodsResultsConclusionsSurvival rates of lower extremity musculoskeletal tumours (LEMTs) have been increasing. However, patients continue to experience functional limitations after LEMT followed by limb-salvage surgery (LSS). This study aimed to identify factors influencing functional recovery after LSS for LEMT.A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of adult patients who underwent LSS for LEMT (n=7) and healthcare professionals (HCPs) with expertise in orthopaedic oncology (n=7). Recruitment continued until data saturation. A combination of deductive and inductive qualitative content analysis was performed to analyse the transcribed data, producing subthemes under the main International Classification of Functioning, disability and health (ICF)-model domains.Four themes were described: (1) bodily functions and structures, (2) activities and participation, (3) environmental factors, and (4) expectations. Physical aspects such as larger resection size and complications negatively affected recovery. The importance of communication strategies of tertiary HCPs and the unfamiliarity of the primary physical therapists with the disease, its surgical treatment, and related consequences were emphasised by both the interviewed patients and HCPs.Functional recovery after LSS for LEMT is a multifactorial process. To improve patient care, improving (intercollegiate) communication strategies on treatment details and expectations about functional outcomes is warranted.Implications for rehabilitationHealthcare professionals should be aware some patients experience limited functional recovery after limb-salvage surgery (LSS) for lower extremity musculoskeletal tumours.Healthcare professionals should use multiple communication strategies to bridge the gap between the information provided and what the patient recalls.Knowledge exchange and communication between primary and tertiary care should be more extensive.Multidisciplinary consultations and/or case managers are needed to address all aspects of the individual’s functional recovery after LSS.Healthcare professionals should be aware some patients experience limited functional recovery after limb-salvage surgery (LSS) for lower extremity musculoskeletal tumours.Healthcare professionals should use multiple communication strategies to bridge the gap between the information provided and what the patient recalls.Knowledge exchange and communication between primary and tertiary care should be more extensive.Multidisciplinary consultations and/or case managers are needed to address all aspects of the individual’s functional recovery after LSS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although literature suggests that exercise can improve symptoms in Parkinson’s Disease (PD) patients, research on the effects of aerobic exercise and resistance training (AE&RT) in early-stage PD remains limited. Understanding the synergistic effects of these exercise modalities can provide valuable insights for optimizing exercise interventions for PD patients, particularly in the early stages of the disease, where interventions may have the greatest impact on long-term functional outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a combined AE&RT program on motor function, postural stability, and cognitive processing speed in early stage PD patients. A total of 236 participants with early-stage PD were assigned to either the Aerobic Exercise Group (AE group) (n= 112) or the AE&RT Group (n= 124) inthis controlled randomized trial. The study employed a one-year supervised exercise program, with the AE Group participating in aerobic activities and the AE&RT Group engaging in combined AE&RT. Outcome measures included symptom improvement, motor function, postural stability, cognitive processing speed, peak oxygen consumption, quality of life evaluation, and the incidence of adverse events. The AE&RT Group demonstrated greater improvements in tremor, muscle rigidity, gait instability, sleep problems, and hyposmia compared to the AE Group. Additionally, the combined exercise group exhibited better cognitive processing speed, as well as enhanced motor function and postural stability. Peak oxygen consumption was significantly higher in the AE&RT Group. However, the quality of life evaluation indicated a statistically higher quality of life in the AE Group. There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse events between the two groups. The findings suggest that the integration of AE&RT in early-stage PD patients leads to more comprehensive improvements in motor symptoms, cognitive function, postural stability, and cardiovascular fitness compared to aerobic exercise alone. These results have important implications for developing tailored exercise interventions to enhance the physical and cognitive well-being of individuals with early-stage PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Sleep disturbances are common in individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder. Exercise interventions are a promising approach in the treatment of sleep disorders, but little is known about the efficacy of exercise interventions for sleep disturbances associated with posttraumatic stress disorder. A total of 40 individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder were randomized to six sessions of either high‐intensity interval training or low‐to‐moderate‐intensity training, administered within 12 days. Sleep quality was assessed over 24 days from baseline to post with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, a sleep log, and a waist‐worn actigraphy. Analyses revealed that, regardless of group allocation, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score improved significantly by 2.28 points for high‐intensity interval training and 1.70 points for low‐to‐moderate‐intensity training (d = 0.56 for high‐intensity interval training; 0.49 for low‐to‐moderate‐intensity training) over time, while there were no significant changes in any sleep log or actigraphy measure. Analysis of a subsample of those affected by clinically significant sleep disturbances (n = 24) revealed a significant time effect with no difference between exercise interventions: Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index improved significantly by 2.65 points for high‐intensity interval training and 2.89 points for low‐to‐moderate‐intensity training (d = 0.53 for high‐intensity interval training; 0.88 for low‐to‐moderate‐intensity training), and actigraphy measure of wake after sleep onset was reduced significantly by 14.39 minutes for high‐intensity interval training and 6.96 minutes for low‐to‐moderate‐intensity training (d = 0.47 for high‐intensity interval training; 0.11 for low‐to‐moderate‐intensity training) from baseline to post. In our pilot study, we found an improvement in sleep quality from pre‐ to post‐assessment. There were no significant differences between exercise groups. Further studies are needed to investigate whether the found time effects reflect the exercise intervention or unrelated factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Being diagnosed with Breast Cancer (BC) is a crisis that throws the patient's life out of balance. Cancer-related fatigue is a debilitating sign experienced by women during and after BC treatment. Regular physical exercise may help mitigate patients' fatigue, enhance coping abilities, improve their quality of life, and overall well-being. In parallel, psychological interventions are geared toward normalizing the lived painful experiences among oncology patients. Objective: to examine the effect of bundling seated exercises and psychoeducational rehabilitation using the teach-back approach on fatigue and coping of women postmastectomy. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted in the Oncology Surgical Department and chemotherapy unit at the Alexandria Main University Hospital, Egypt. A total of 60 women were randomly allocated to either to the study or the control groups. Women in the study group practiced seated exercises and psychological rehabilitation interventions, including mindfulness breathing, problem-solving training, cognitive reframing technique, and thought stopping while the control group received the routine care. Results: The study revealed a significant decline in the fatigue mean scores among participants in the intervention group from 136.10 ± 27.76 to 98.43 ± 25.99 (p < 0.001). Similarly, there was a significant decrease in the patients' mean scores of maladaptive coping, helplessness/ hopelessness (p = 0.014), and anxious preoccupation (p = 0.008). In contrast, there is a noticeable increment in the scores of adaptive coping, such as fighting spirit (p = 0.012), cognitive avoidance (p = 0.002), and fatalism (p = 0.009). Conclusion: Bundling seated exercises and psychological rehabilitation interventions using the teach-back approach have been proven to be simple and inexpensive non-pharmacological methods of reducing cancer-related fatigue and improving coping skills among women post-mastectomy. Trial registration number: NCT06360276, ClinicalTrails.gov, Retrospectively registered (April 8th, 2024), URL of trial registry record: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT06360276. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the effects of High-intensity laser therapy (HILT) on individuals suffering from temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs). A search was conducted across six electronic databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focusing on HILT for TMDs: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, EBSCOhost, Cochrane Library, the PEDro database and Google Scholar (last updated on July 18, 2024). Eligible studies were chosen by independent reviewers, and their quality was assessed with the Cochrane risk of bias tool (RoB). The main outcome was pain intensity (VAS), with secondary outcomes including mouth opening (mm), disability (JFLS-20), and quality of life (OHIP-14). A meta-analysis was conducted to assess the pooled effect by calculating mean differences (MD) for these variables (95% confidence level). The heterogeneity of the meta-analyses was explored using the I2 statistic. Three studies met the selection criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The main RoB was the blinding of participant and treaters. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) in favor of HILT were observed for VAS and maximum mouth opening. The pooled effect showed an MD of -14.8 mm (95% CI:-27.1,-2.5) for pain intensity and 3.7 mm (95% CI:0.9,6.5) for mouth opening, changes that were assessed as clinically important. According to GRADE, the evidence was rated as important, and the certainty was moderate due to the heterogeneity between studies. A sensitivity analysis was not performed to address heterogeneity, primarily due to the limited availability of RCTs. HILT has been found effective in short-term pain relief and improvement of jaw opening in TMDs, potentially enhancing quality of life by facilitating activities such as chewing, jaw mobility, and communication. However, further research is needed to confirm its long-term effectiveness. Combining HILT with interventions such as occlusal splints or therapeutic exercises could potentially enhance its effects, leveraging the existing evidence supporting these treatments. It is important to note that the high RoB associated with the lack of blinding of participants and treaters may influence data collection, compromising the internal validity of findings in some studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) frequently occurs after axillary lymph node dissection and remains incurable even with lymphaticovenular anastomosis. Exercise interventions have emerged as a potential non-pharmacological management approach. However, standardized exercise recommendations tailored to BCRL patients are lacking. Purpose: This study evaluated the impact of high and low compliance exercise interventions, aligned with ACSM recommendations, on quality of life (QOL), shoulder range of motion (ROM), and arm volume in BCRL patients. It further aimed to determine the optimal exercise dosage, assessed via the FITT (frequency, intensity, time, type) principle, that maximizes health benefits for BCRL patients. Methods: Adhering to the PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews and meta- analyses, we conducted a comprehensive literature search in various databases, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, encompassing the period from the inception of these databases to December 2023. We extracted data on exercise form, frequency, intensity, duration, repetitions, and sets from the identified studies. Subsequently, a meta-analysis and review were conducted. The exercise interventions were evaluated based on ACSM recommendations and categorized as either high or low compliance with ACSM standards. Fixed or random effects models were employed to compare outcomes across study subgroups with comparable results. Additionally, funnel plot analyses, sensitivity analyses, and Egger's and Begg's tests were conducted to evaluate the potential for bias. Results: 15 studies encompassing 863 patients with BCRL were analyzed. Eleven studies exhibited high ACSM compliance, while four demonstrated low ACSM compliance. Regarding QOL, the overall standard mean difference (SMD) was 0.13 (95% CI: -1.07, 1.33). Specifically, the SMD for the high-adherence subgroup was 0.91 (95% CI: 0.33, 1.49; p = 0.002). For ROM, the overall SMD was 1.21 (95% CI: -0.19, 2.61). For arm volume, the overall SMD was -0.06 (95% CI: -0.22, 0.10). QOL results differed significantly in the high-adherence subgroup, whereas no significant effect on ROM or arm volume was observed. Conclusion: The study revealed significant QOL improvements in patients with high ACSM compliance, contrasted with those with low compliance. Conversely, no notable changes in ROM or arm volume were observed. Notably, the high adherence group tended to show better ROM during exercise and stable arm volume. Future research is needed to validate these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of cavaletti pole height on temporospatial (TPS) and ground reaction force (GRF) variables as compared to a walking gait in healthy dogs. Animals: A total of 25 client-owned dogs were included in this study. Procedures: This study used client-owned dogs to explore the effects of cavaletti pole height on TPS and GRF variables. Dogs were first walked over a validated pressure-sensitive walkway (PSW) and then walked over the PSW over which six cavaletti poles were set. Cavaletti pole height was initially set at 2 inches and then increased incrementally to 4 inches, 6 inches, and 8 inches. TPS and GRF variables were obtained for all dogs walking across a PSW without cavaletti poles and at each cavaletti height. TPS variables were then compared to those obtained at a normal walking gait. Results: Increasing cavaletti height resulted in significant decreases in walking gait velocity and the number of gait cycles per minute. Conversely, significant increases in gait cycle duration (duration of one complete cycle of gait, which includes the time from the initial contact of one paw to the subsequent contact of the same paw) and gait time (duration to walk the total distance on the PSW) were noted. Increases in stance time, normalized maximum force, and normalized vertical impulse were observed. Conclusion and clinical relevance: Cavaletti height does influence TPS variables in healthy dogs at a walking gait. The effects were most notable with regard to velocity. Due to the lack of consistent velocity for all cavaletti heights, no conclusions can be drawn regarding the effect of cavaletti height on ground reaction forces. Further investigation is needed to elucidate whether it is the velocity, cavaletti height, or combination of both that impacts ground reaction force variables. When selecting cavaletti pole heights for a therapeutic exercise program, an increase in cavaletti height results in a slower walking gait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of exercise intervention on postural balance, gait parameters, and muscle strength in children with cerebral palsy by quantifying the information from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Methods: We conducted a systematical search for RCTs from the databases, including PubMed, ISI Web of Science, and Scopus using a between-group design involving children with cerebral palsy and assessing the effect of exercise intervention on postural balance, gait parameters, and muscle strength. The specified inclusion criteria were determined by the PICOS tool. The outcomes of included studies were evaluated by meta-analysis, and subgroup and sensitivity analyses were conducted to analyze the observed heterogeneities using Review Manager 5.4 and Stata version 18.0. The revised Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2) was used to evaluate the risk of bias and quality of the included studies. Results: Twenty-four studies were included in this meta-analysis, with 579 children with cerebral palsy. Exercise intervention showed a statistically significant favorable effect on gross motor function (SMD = 0.32; 95%CI [0.03 to 0.61]; I2 = 16%), anteroposterior stability index (SMD = -0.93; 95%CI [-1.69 to -0.18]; I2 = 80%), and mediolateral stability index (SMD = -0.60; 95%CI [-1.16 to -0.03]; I2 = 73%) compared to control group among children with cerebral palsy. None of the above meta-analyses exhibited publication bias, as indicated by Egger's test with p-values greater than 0.05 for all. Conclusions: Exercise is effective in improving gross motor function and balance in children with cerebral palsy. Due to the lack of studies examining the efficacy of each exercise type, we are unable to provide definitive training recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the global increase in older employees, workplace physical activity interventions (WPAIs) for this target group have not yet been sufficiently developed. The major drawback of existing WPAIs is low adherence due to lack of time or limited motivation. A novel approach could be to integrate tailored neuromotor and strength exercises into everyday working tasks to prevent the functional decline of older employees at the workplace without needing much additional time for training. This approach was tested in the present study by evaluating the proof-of-concept of a novel WPAI based on the Lifestyle-integrated Functional Exercise (LiFE) program integrated into a working environment (wLiFE55 +). Methods: The proof-of-concept of wLiFE55 + was quantified within a 4-week pre-post exercise intervention study by measuring (1) feasibility including adherence, activity frequency, adverse events and acceptance (integrability of wLiFE55 + activities, perceived improvement and safety, satisfaction, physical demand, personal trainer session, intervention content) and (2) pre-to-post changes in neuromotor function (12-Level Balance Scale, 12-LBS; Community Balance and Mobility Scale, CBM), strength (60sec Chair Stand Test), and PA (1-week activity monitoring). For statistical analysis, the median and interquartile range (IQR) were computed. For pre-to-post changes, Wilcoxon signed-rank tests with effect size (r) were also performed. Results: Seventeen older employees (mean age 59 years, 8 female) were included of which fifteen completed the study. The intervention adherence was 100%, and the activity adherence was 58% (9 out of 12 maximum possible wLiFE55 + activities implemented). Depending on the specific activity, the frequency of practice ranged between 25–75% of the days of the intervention period, and single wLiFE55 + activities were practiced between one and three times per day. No adverse events occurred, and acceptance was high. Pre-to-post increases with medium effect sizes were found for neuromotor function (CBM, 12-LBS) and specific PA variables (total sedentary time, sedentary bouts > 30 min). Conclusion: The results of the study highlight the feasibility of wLiFE55 + in a work setting with older employees. The pre-to-post increases observed in neuromotor measures and reductions in sedentary time suggest that wLiFE55 + may counteract the age-related functional decline in older employees and justifies future studies in this field. The next steps are program adjustments to boost exercise frequency and evaluating wLiFE55 + in a randomized controlled trial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Longer length of hospital stay (LOS) negatively affects the organizational efficiency of public health systems and both clinical and functional aspects of older patients. Data on the effects of transitional care programs based on multicomponent interventions to reduce LOS of older patients are scarce and controversial. Aims: The PRO‐HOME study aimed to assess the efficacy in reducing LOS of a transitional care program involving a multicomponent intervention inside a technologically monitored in‐hospital discharge facility. Methods: This is a Randomized Clinical Trial on 60 patients (≥65 years), deemed stable and dischargeable from the Acute Geriatrics Unit, equally assigned to the Control Group (CG) or Intervention Group (IG). The latter underwent a multicomponent intervention including lifestyle educational program, cognitive and physical training. At baseline, multidimensional frailty according to the Multidimensional Prognostic Index (MPI), and Health‐Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) were assessed in both groups, along with physical capacities for the IG. Enrolled subjects were evaluated after 6 months of follow‐up to assess multidimensional frailty, HRQOL, and re‐hospitalization, institutionalization, and death rates. Results: The IG showed a significant 2‐day reduction in LOS (median days IG = 2 (2–3) vs. CG = 4 (3–6); p < 0.001) and an improvement in multidimensional frailty at 6 months compared to CG (median score IG = 0.25(0.25–0.36) vs. CG = 0.38(0.31–0.45); p = 0.040). No differences were found between the two groups in HRQOL, and re‐hospitalization, institutionalization, and death rates. Discussion: Multidimensional frailty is a reversible condition that can be improved by reduced LOS. Conclusions: The PRO‐HOME transitional care program reduces LOS and multidimensional frailty in hospitalized older patients. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov n. NCT06227923 (retrospectively registered on 29/01/2024). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large-mouth bass originally lived in rivers and lakes and now is often raised in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS). However, the shortcoming of RAS is that there is very limited space for swimming fish in a high-density culture environment, thus leading to a lack of exercise. To investigate the effects of exercise training on growth performance, digestive enzymes, stress, and antioxidant capacity of large-mouth bass in a RAS, three training water flow velocities with three replicates were used in the present study: low water velocity: 0.5 body length per second (bl/s) (LV); medium water velocity: 1 bl/s (MV); and high water velocity: 1.5 bl/s (HV). 270 large-mouth bass (average initial body weight 47.51 ± 1.44 g, initial body length 12.71 ± 0.06 cm) were randomly divided into nine tanks (30 fish per tank). After 27 days experiment, the results showed that the growth performance of large-mouth bass, including feed intake, weight gain rate, and specific growth rate, in the HV group was significantly higher compared to the other groups. On the physiological level, the lipase and amylase activities were significantly increased in the HV group compared to the other groups. For the stress response parameters, the cortisol, glucose and lactate concentrations in the HV group were significantly increased, which may indicate higher stress in the HV group. Regarding the antioxidant enzyme activities, the activities of catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) in the LV group were significantly higher than those in the HV group, which indicated that fish suffered higher oxidative stress in the LV group. Regarding the immune-related parameters, LZM and ACP activities had no significant differences among the groups, while AKP activities in the MV and HV groups were significantly higher than that in the LV group. Overall, the results demonstrated that exercise training had significant effects on the growth, digestion, stress, and immune response of large-mouth bass. It is suggested that exercise training with 1.5 bl/s can enhance fish growth, however, it also presents a potential risk of inducing stress in fish. Therefore, in rearing largemouth bass in RAS, the setting of water flow velocity should not only focus on the growth of large-mouth bass but also consider its welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arthritis affects many individuals and can cause pain and limit physical functioning. Exercise is an important treatment option for individuals with arthritis; however, adherence to exercise programs can be challenging. A new initiative in Denmark has introduced nature-based exercises for patients with arthritis. This qualitative study aimed to explore the experiences of the individuals who participated in those exercises. The study used a hermeneutic-phenomenological approach and conducted along-side interviews with 12 women and three men who participated in nature-based exercise programs for arthritis. Analysis of the data revealed two main themes. The first theme highlighted the positive effects of being in nature, such as increased vitality, reduced pain, and a sense of well-being. The second theme emphasized the social benefits of participating in these exercises, including a sense of connection and community with others. Overall, this study suggests that incorporating nature-based exercises in treatment programs for arthritis could have significant benefits for individuals with this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document titled "Photobiomodulation Literature Watch October 2023" is a valuable resource for researchers and individuals interested in the field of photobiomodulation therapy. It provides a list of recent research articles on the topic, covering a range of subjects such as wound healing, pain management, oral mucositis, neurogenesis, and cognitive impairment. The studies explore the effectiveness of photobiomodulation therapy using low-level light therapy, laser acupuncture, and therapeutic lasers in various medical conditions. This document offers a comprehensive overview of the current research in the field of photobiomodulation therapy. [Extracted from the article]

The hatchery-raised juveniles of Schizothorax wangchiachii, a species widely distributed in the Jinsha River and its tributaries in China, have shown improved swimming performance through exercise training. Understanding the underlying biological processes and molecular mechanisms responsible for this enhanced swimming ability is crucial. In this research, the transcriptome of muscle tissue was sequenced for juvenile S. wangchiachii subjected to exercise training. After thorough data processing, a total of 113,814 unigenes were obtained, with 57,500 of them annotated using various datasets including Pfam, GO, COG, Swiss-Prot, NR, and KEGG. The study identified 889 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the experimental and control groups after 30 days of exercise training, of which 439 were upregulated and 450 downregulated. Enrichment analysis highlighted that these DEGs were predominantly involved in molecular processes such as protein metabolism and breakdown, neurodevelopment, immunity, and growth and development. The expression patterns of the DEGs were validated through real-time PCR, corroborating the findings derived from transcriptome analysis. Further experimental investigation led to the recognition of MYLPF as a potential functional candidate gene for swimming ability in S. wangchiachii. The results provide novel insights into how S. wangchiachii adapts to exercise training, contributing to a deeper comprehension of the mechanisms that underlie exercise-induced improvements in fish swimming performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People with long COVID may suffer from a wide range of ongoing symptoms including fatigue, exertional dyspnea, reduced exercise performance, and others. In particular, impaired exercise performance is a condition that can be recovered in many people through an individualized physical exercise training program. However, clinical experience has shown that the presence of post-exertional malaise (PEM) is a significant barrier to physical exercise training in people with long COVID. Currently, there is no guideline or consensus available on how to apply exercise training in this cohort. Therefore, we conducted a literature review in the PubMed library using the following search terms: «COVID», «post-COVID», «long COVID» and «exercise» searching for studies from January 2020 to January 2024. Data from 46 trials were included. Exercise training regimes were very heterogeneous and none of these studies reported on the management of PEM in the context of an exercise training program. Based on the feedback from an additional survey that was answered by 14 international experts in the field of exercise training in long COVID, combined with the authors´ own extensive practical experience, a best practice proposal for exercise training recommendations has been developed. This proposal differentiates exercise procedures according to the presence of no, mild/moderate or severe PEM in people with long COVID. These recommendations may guide allied healthcare professionals worldwide in initiating and adjusting exercise training programs for people with long COVID, stratified according to the presence and severity of PEM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia (CIAS) represents one of the core features of the disorder and has a significant impact on functional and rehabilitation outcomes of people living with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD). The aim of this critical review is to highlight the most recent evidence on effective treatments available for CIAS, to discuss the current challenges in this field, and to present future perspectives that may help to overcome them. Concerning psychopharmacological approaches, among the most indicated strategies for the management and prevention of CIAS is to favor second-generation antipsychotic medications and avoid long-term and high-dose treatments with anticholinergic medications and benzodiazepines. Moreover, non-pharmacological approaches such as cognitive remediation and physical exercise-based programs represent evidence-based interventions in the treatment of CIAS that have shown reliable evidence of effectiveness on both cognitive and functional outcomes. These treatments, however, are still delivered to people accessing mental health services with a diagnosis of CIAS in an uneven manner, even in high-income countries. Academic and clinical partnership and collaboration, as well as advocacy from service users, families, carers, and stakeholders' organizations could help to reduce the bench to bedside gap in the treatment of CIAS. Future perspectives include the development of novel pharmacological agents that could be effective in the treatment of CIAS, the implementation of novel technologies such as telemedicine and virtual reality in the delivery of evidence-based interventions to improve accessibility and engagement, and further research in the field of non-invasive brain stimulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Erosive tooth wear (ETW) has been gaining attention due to its high prevalence. However, ETW clinical diagnosis is difficult and may go unnoticed by many professionals. The present study aimed to develop, implement and evaluate a theoretical–practical training using active methodologies in the development of undergraduate students' skills for the diagnosis of ETW compared to the traditional teaching method. Materials and Methods: This randomized controlled study involved two parallel groups: control group (n = 22), with learning based only on theoretical content and test group (n = 24), learning by theoretical–practical activity mediated by monitors/tutors. The theoretical class covered the current concepts of ETW, aetiology, diagnosis, use of the BEWE index, prevention and treatment. The practical training included exercises and discussions based on the diagnosis using BEWE scores of a collection of images and extracted teeth. To evaluate the efficacy of the teaching–learning methods, a theoretical multiple‐choice questionnaire and a practical test using images and extracted teeth were applied. The outcome was the number of correct answers. Groups were compared by Mann–Whitney (theoretical knowledge) and T tests (practical ability in diagnosis) (p <.05). Results: There was no significant difference between groups in the theoretical evaluation (p =.866). The test group showed higher ability to diagnose ETW lesions compared to the control group in the practical tests (p =.001). The performance of ETW diagnosis was similar when images were used in comparison to extracted teeth (p =.570). Conclusion: The practical activity associated with theoretical classes can be a promising strategy to improve the development of undergraduate students' skills in the diagnosis of ETW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review synthesized implementation literature on group-based exercise programs in physiotherapy. MEDLINE and Embase databases were searched for English and French articles published between 2000 and 2022. Through a two-step process (titles/abstracts and full text), two independent reviewers selected studies. The independent reviewers then extracted data and assessed study quality using theMixed Methods Appraisal Tool. A total of 31 studies involving 4555 participants were included. Data on the group-based programs were extracted using the Consensus on Exercise Reporting Template and reported narratively. Implementation outcomes were reported narratively. The most frequently reported constructs pertained to feasibility and acceptability. Overall, the implementation of groupbased programs appeared to be feasible, yielding high rates of adherence and attendance (between 36% and 91%), moderate-to-high completion rates (between 46% and 100%), low-to-moderate dropout rates (between 4.5% and 35.9%), and high satisfaction (satisfaction scores generally ranging above 7/10). The present findings also indicate a high acceptability for group-based physiotherapy exercise programs among patients. This review provided an overview of the literature on the implementation of group-based exercise programs in physiotherapy. In addition, it identified the need for more evidence on fidelity and costs. Future research should address these gaps to better inform healthcare stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of the study is to investigate the comparative effects of nonpharmacological therapies for managing global, attention, memory, and execution cognitive functions in stroke patients. Design: We searched PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, PEDro, and Google Scholar for randomized controlled trials that evaluated the effects of nonpharmacological therapies for treating stroke cognitive dysfunctions. We performed a network meta-analysis to estimate the mean treatment effect of 95% credible interval. Results: Seventy-three randomized controlled trials were included in the network meta-analysis for evidence syntheses. All therapies had significant effects than control on global cognition in stroke patients. Combined therapy was superior to other therapies for global cognition of all patients (vs. cognitive task therapy: 0.71, 95% credible interval = 0.14 to 1.29; vs. exercise: 0.88, 95% credible interval = 0.31 to 1.45, vs. physical modality therapy: 0.77, 95% credible interval = 0.16 to 1.40). Different therapies have effects on specific cognitive domains in stroke patients. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that nonpharmacological therapies are effective in improving global cognitive function in stroke patients, with cognitive task therapy, exercise therapy, physical modality therapy, and combined therapy being viable options (most optimal approach: combined therapy). Precise selection of therapies based on the time since stroke onset and specific cognitive domains can further enhance treatment outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to examine the clinical impact of vitamin D supplementation combined with exercise during pregnancy among patients with gestational diabetes mellitus. Pregnant women (n = 120) were divided into a control group and an exercise group, with 60 patients in each group. Participants in both groups received 400 IU of oral vitamin D drops daily between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation. Before delivery, the pregnant women in the control group did not receive exercise intervention, while those in the exercise group received physical exercise intervention. Fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance levels, and proinflammatory factor levels among pregnant women in the exercise group were lower than those among pregnant women in the control group. At birth, the neonatal weight and head circumference in exercise group were lower than control group. No statistical significance was observed in neonatal age (weeks) between both groups. Vitamin D intervention combined with physical exercise during pregnancy can elevate vitamin D levels in women with gestational diabetes mellitus and reduce newborn weight, effectively reversing the effects of gestational diabetes mellitus on newborns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical therapy is often essential for complete recovery after injury. However, a significant population of patients fail to adhere to prescribed exercise regimens. Lack of motivation and inconsistent in-person visits to physical therapy are major contributing factors to suboptimal exercise adherence, slowing the recovery process. With the advancement of virtual reality (VR), researchers have developed remote virtual rehabilitation systems with sensors such as inertial measurement units. A functional garment with an integrated wearable sensor can also be used for real-time sensory feedback in VR-based therapeutic exercise and offers affordable remote rehabilitation to patients. Sensors integrated into wearable garments offer the potential for a quantitative range of motion measurements during VR rehabilitation. In this research, we developed and validated a carbon nanocomposite-coated knit fabric-based sensor worn on a compression sleeve that can be integrated with upper-extremity virtual rehabilitation systems. The sensor was created by coating a commercially available weft knitted fabric consisting of polyester, nylon, and elastane fibers. A thin carbon nanotube composite coating applied to the fibers makes the fabric electrically conductive and functions as a piezoresistive sensor. The nanocomposite sensor, which is soft to the touch and breathable, demonstrated high sensitivity to stretching deformations, with an average gauge factor of ~35 in the warp direction of the fabric sensor. Multiple tests are performed with a Kinarm end point robot to validate the sensor for repeatable response with a change in elbow joint angle. A task was also created in a VR environment and replicated by the Kinarm. The wearable sensor can measure the change in elbow angle with more than 90% accuracy while performing these tasks, and the sensor shows a proportional resistance change with varying joint angles while performing different exercises. The potential use of wearable sensors in at-home virtual therapy/exercise was demonstrated using a Meta Quest 2 VR system with a virtual exercise program to show the potential for at-home measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess the effects of the eFisioTrack monitoring system on clinical variables in patients with prescribed physiotherapy for shoulder injuries, twenty-four adult patients with shoulder orthopaedic injuries who underwent physical therapy treatment in a hospital setting participated in the study (twelve in the experimental group and twelve as controls). Clinical outcome measures were shoulder function and pain (Constant–Murley Score and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand or DASH score). Each variable was measured by a blinded physiotherapist at baseline and at one month follow-up. Patients performed the prescribed exercises either supervised by the physiotherapist (control group) or in a separate room without therapist supervision (experimental group). There were no statistically significant differences between groups before treatment or at follow-up for any outcomes (p ≥ 0.05). There was a statistically significant decrease (p ≤ 0.05) of at least 10 points in both groups for the DASH score at follow-up. Differences in the total score and subjective components of the Constant–Murley were also evidenced within groups. The use of the eFisioTrack system showed similar results in clinical measures compared to those performed under the direct supervision of the physiotherapist. This approach might be suitable for providing an effective shoulder exercise program at home. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital therapeutics refers to smartphone applications, software, and wearable devices that provide digital solutions to improve healthcare delivery. We developed a digital platform to support the GYM (Grow Your Muscle) study, an ongoing 48-week randomized, controlled trial on reduction of sarcopenia through a home-based, app-monitored physical exercise intervention. The GYM platform consists of a smartphone application including the exercise program and video tutorials of body-weight exercises, a wearable device to monitor heart rate during training, and a website for downloading training data to remotely monitor the exercise. The aim of this paper is to describe the platform in detail and to discuss the technical issues emerging during the study and those related to usability of the smartphone application through a retrospective survey. The main technical issue concerned the API level 33 upgrade, which did not enable participants using the Android operating systems to use the wearable device. The survey revealed some problems with viewing the video tutorials and with internet or smartphone connection. On the other hand, the smartphone application was reported to be easy to use and helpful to guide home exercising. Despite the issues encountered during the study, this digital-supported physical exercise intervention could provide useful to improve muscle measures of sarcopenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most prevalent chronic liver ailment worldwide, in which nonpharmacological strategies have a considerable role in the treatment. Probiotic supplementation as well as physical exercise can improve cardiometabolic parameters, but further research is needed to determine the effects of combined treatment versus exercise alone in managing NAFLD-associated biomarkers, primarily liver enzymes, lipid markers, and insulin resistance. Objectives: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of probiotic supplementation, combined with exercise versus exercise alone, on liver enzymes and cardiometabolic markers in patients with NAFLD. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials was performed by searching PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases up to April 2024. The search was restricted to articles published in the English language and human studies. Random effects models were used to calculate weighted mean differences (WMD). Results: Pooled estimates (9 studies, 615 patients, intervention durations ranging from 8 to 48 weeks) revealed that probiotics plus exercise decreased aspartate transaminase (AST) [WMD=-5.64 U/L, p = 0.02], gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) [WMD=-7.09 U/L, p = 0.004], low-density lipoprotein (LDL) [WMD=-8.98 mg/dL, p = 0.03], total cholesterol (TC) [WMD=-16.97 mg/dL, p = 0.01], and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) [WMD=-0.94, p = 0.005] significantly more than exercise only. However, probiotics plus exercise did not significantly change high-density lipoprotein (HDL) [WMD = 0.07 mg/dL, p = 0.9], fasting insulin [WMD=-1.47 µIU/mL, p = 0.4] or fasting blood glucose (FBG) [WMD=-1.57 mg/dL, p = 0.3] compared with exercise only. While not statistically significant, there were clinically relevant reductions in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) [WMD=-6.78 U/L, p = 0.1], triglycerides (TG) [WMD=-21.84 mg/dL, p = 0.1], and body weight (BW) [WMD=-1.45 kg, p = 0.5] for probiotics plus exercise compared with exercise only. The included studies exhibited significant heterogeneity for AST (I2 = 78.99%, p = 0.001), GGT (I2 = 73.87%, p = 0.004), LDL (I2 = 62.78%, p = 0.02), TC (I2 = 72.41%, p = 0.003), HOMA-IR (I2 = 93.86%, p = 0.001), HDL (I2 = 0.00%, p = 0.9), FBG (I2 = 66.30%, p = 0.01), ALT (I2 = 88.08%, p = 0.001), and TG (I2 = 85.46%, p = 0.001). There was no significant heterogeneity among the included studies for BW (I2 = 0.00%, p = 0.9). Conclusion: Probiotic supplementation combined with exercise training elicited better results compared to exercise alone on liver enzymes, lipid profile, and insulin resistance in patients with NAFLD. Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO registration number CRD42023424290. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity remains a medical issue of great concern. Behavioural methods attempting to induce weight loss have largely failed because of a minimal understanding of stress‐ and depression‐associated psychosocial correlates. This study extended research into the effects of exercise on weight loss through psychological pathways to improve treatments. Women with obesity (N = 108), participating in an original theory‐driven cognitive‐behavioural treatment within community‐based health promotion centres, were evaluated over 24 months. Their mean scores on anxiety, depression, and anger at baseline were significantly higher than normative data from a general sample of United States women. Three serial mediation models were specified assessing mediation of the significant exercise→dietary change relationship. These yielded two significant paths: changes in exercise→anxiety→anxiety‐associated emotional eating→self‐efficacy→diet, and changes in exercise→depression→depression‐associated emotional eating→self‐efficacy→diet; and one non‐significant path: changes in exercise→anger→anger‐associated emotional eating→self‐efficacy→diet. In a subsequent moderated moderation model, change in eating‐related self‐regulation moderated the relationship between changes in anxiety and anxiety‐associated emotional eating, where exercise‐associated self‐regulation moderated effects from eating‐related self‐regulation. Dietary improvement was significantly related to weight loss over 6 (β = −0.40), 12 (β = −0.42), and 24 (β = −0.33) months. Findings indicated an increased treatment focus on the completion of moderate amounts of exercise for weight loss and, following that, attention to improvements in anxiety, depression, anxiety‐ and depression‐associated emotional eating, self‐efficacy for controlled eating, and the transfer of exercise‐related self‐regulation to eating‐related self‐regulation. Given the scope of the obesity problem, extensions of this research within field settings are warranted to accelerate application opportunities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sarcopenia is characterized by loss of muscle strength and muscle mass with aging. The growing number of sarcopenia patients as a result of the aging population has no viable treatment. Exercise maintains muscle strength and mass by increasing peroxisome growth factor activating receptor γ-conjugating factor-1α (PGC-1α) and Akt signaling in skeletal muscle. The present study focused on the carbon monoxide (CO), endogenous activator of PGC-1α and Akt, and investigated the therapeutic potential of CO-loaded red blood cells (CO-RBCs), which is bioinspired from in vivo CO delivery system, as an exercise mimetic for the treatment of sarcopenia. Treatment of C2C12 myoblasts with the CO-donor increased the protein levels of PGC-1α which enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis and energy production. The CO-donor treatment also activated Akt, indicating that CO promotes muscle synthesis. CO levels were significantly elevated in the skeletal muscle of normal mice after intravenous administration of CO-RBCs. Furthermore, CO-RBCs restored the mRNA expression levels of PGC-1α in the skeletal muscle of two experimental sarcopenia mouse models, denervated (Den) and hindlimb unloading (HU) models. CO-RBCs also restored muscle mass in Den mice by activating Akt signaling and suppressing the muscle atrophy factors myostatin and atrogin-1, and oxidative stress. Treadmill tests further showed that the reduced running distance in HU mice was significantly restored by CO-RBC administration. These findings suggest that CO-RBCs have potential as an exercise mimetic for sarcopenia treatment. [Display omitted] • CO activates PGC-1α to promote mitochondrial biogenesis in skeletal muscle cells. • CO activates Akt signaling in vitro and in vivo. • CO-RBCs efficiently deliver CO to the skeletal muscles in vivo. • CO-RBCs restore muscle strength and mass in the two mouse models of sarcopenia. • CO-RBCs have potential as an excise mimetic for the treatment of sarcopenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychological stress is associated with numerous deleterious health effects. Accumulating evidence suggests acute exercise reduces stress reactivity. As stressors activate a wide array of psychological and physiological systems it is imperative stress responses are examined through a multidimensional lens. Moreover, it seems prudent to consider whether stress responses are influenced by exercise intervention characteristics such as modality, duration, intensity, timing, as well as participant fitness/physical activity levels. The current review therefore examined the role of acute exercise on stress reactivity through a multidimensional approach, as well as whether exercise intervention characteristics and participant fitness/physical activity levels may moderate these effects. Stress reactivity was assessed via heart rate, blood pressure, cortisol, catecholamines, and self-report. A systematic search following PRISMA guidelines of five databases was updated in November 2022. Reviewed studies met the following criteria: English language, participants aged ≥ 18, use of acute exercise, use of a validated stress-inducing task, and assessment(s) of stress reactivity. Thirty-one studies (1386 participants) were included. Acute exercise resulted in reliable reductions to blood pressure and cortisol. Acute exercise yielded mostly negligible effects on heart rate reactivity and negligible effects on self-report measures. As for exercise intervention characteristics, intensity-dependent effects were present, such that higher intensities yielded larger reductions to reactivity measures, while limited evidence was present for duration, modality, and timing-dependent effects. Regarding participant fitness/physical activity levels, the effects on stress reactivity were mixed. Future work should standardize the definitions and assessment time points of stress reactivity, as well as investigate the interaction between physiological and psychological stress responses in real-world contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The researcher used the experimental method in the style of equal groups, and the sample of the research was chosen from them (20) randomly, and they were randomly divided into two groups. (10) for each group by simple lottery method. The homogeneity and equivalence of the investigated variables was conducted. The training period lasted 8 weeks with two training units. The statistical bag (spss) was used to process statistics Conclusions. In light of the above, the researcher reached several conclusions, the most important of which are: The development of experimental group in the tests change direction without a ball due to the effectiveness of the exercises used in the training curriculum, which strengthened the rapid strength of the muscles of the two men working in reducing these distances. Emphasis on the development of muscle strength of different muscles of the body, especially the muscles of the two legs and trunk to ensure the increase efficiency and strength and speed of the member in charge of performance in the movements of changing direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research shows many positive effects from physical exercise. The present study examined the impact of a structured physical exercise program compared to treatment as usual on the gross motor skills of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Participants included 20 children, from 4 to 7 years old, who were assigned to two groups; an experimental group (n = 10) who received a structured physical exercise program for 60-min sessions, three times a week for eight weeks, and a control group (n = 10) who received conventional physiotherapy. Gross motor skills were assessed with the Abbreviated Development Scale -3 before and after the physical exercise program. The experimental group exhibited significant improvements in gross motor skills compared to the control group. This study suggests that structured physical exercise programs can improve gross motor skills in children with ASD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Objectives Methods Results Conclusion Individuals who suffer from simple snoring rarely go to a doctor due to a lack of medical knowledge, but simple snoring can reduce the individual's quality of life and may cause social problems to the bed partner/family members.The aims of the present study are to explore the effects of online modified oropharyngeal exercises on the individuals with simple snoring and to provide a rehabilitation method for individuals with simple snoring.This study is a double‐blinded, two‐arm, randomized controlled trial. Participants were enrolled and randomly assigned to the intervention group (n = 33) or the control group (n = 33). The participants in the control group received health education on snoring, while the participants in the intervention group received the modified oropharyngeal exercise besides health education on snoring. The intervention duration was 4 weeks. The primary outcomes included snoring index, snoring loudness, and snoring quantity. The secondary outcomes included self‐reported snoring, sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, anxiety symptoms, depression symptoms, and quality of life. All outcomes were measured at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks.Generalized estimating equations (GEE) analyses showed significant differences between the intervention group and the control group on snoring index, loudness, and quantity (p < .001). Moreover, modified oropharyngeal exercise had effects on sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, anxiety symptoms, depression symptoms, and quality of life in individuals with simple snoring (p < .001). Self‐reported snoring also improved at 8 weeks.The modified oropharyngeal exercises were effective in improving simple snoring. It could also improve sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, anxiety symptoms, depression symptoms, and quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Service providers find it difficult to implement Physical Exercise (PE) strategies in routine care within inpatient mental health settings even though they perceive it to be an effective therapy, with a robust evidence base. Identifying barriers that exist can assist with the development of future interventions and support PE services being introduced into mental health inpatient settings. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesise the evidence on the barriers or perceived barriers that exist amongst service users and providers when incorporating PE as an intervention within inpatient mental health settings. Using a narrative synthesis approach, four main themes were identified: (i) Barriers relating to service users' mental and physical health, (ii) Factors relating to service providers, (iii) Environmental factors and (iv) Cultural factors. Both service users and providers need more knowledge on implementing PE in inpatient mental health settings. Tailored programmes for service users are warranted, with specialist roles for staff developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Expressing a desire for surgery before participating in first-line osteoarthritis (OA) interventions (patient education and exercise therapy) has been shown to contribute to poorer outcomes from the interventions, but we lack knowledge on how these patients reflect on health care and self-management of OA. To explore and describe patients' perspectives of health care and self-management of OA among those expressing a desire for surgery before participating in first-line OA interventions. Sixteen patients with hip or knee OA referred to participate in a standardized first-line OA intervention program in primary health care in Sweden were included in the study. We used individual semi-structured interviews to collect data, which were analyzed using inductive qualitative content analysis. One theme of meaning "A multifaceted picture of needs, expectations, and individual choices" and five categories were identified as perspectives from the participants regarding health care and self-management of OA: 1) lacking control and needing support; 2) standing alone in an unsupportive environment; 3) going with the flow; 4) having expectations; and 5) taking ownership. Patients who express a desire for surgery before participating in first-line interventions for OA are not a homogeneous group. They describe a broad range of perspectives on how they reason and reflect on health care and self-management of OA based on their own needs, expectations, and choices. Findings from this study strengthen insights on the importance of exploring the patient's perspectives and individualizing OA interventions to achieve the lifestyle changes that first-line interventions strive to accomplish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wearable technology may provide the possibility to monitor and quantify home exercises, to increase motivation for training and to facilitate cooperation between stroke survivors and physiotherapists. However, little is known about potential users' opinions about using such systems. To explore stroke survivors' and physiotherapists' perspectives on the potential benefit of such wearable technology consisting of a smartphone application and movement sensors. Four semi-structured focus group discussions, two with stroke survivors (n = 12) and physiotherapists (n = 11) respectively, were conducted to explore their perceptions on the potential of such technology. We developed four main themes through the thematic analysis: 1) the app should be well-developed, user-friendly and flexible; 2) the app's potential for feedback and the experience of progression; 3) the app as a tool for rehabilitation; and 4) the app's potential to strengthen the relationship between stroke survivors and physiotherapists. Stroke survivors' use of wearable technology to promote home exercise will depend as much on their trust in the professional and relational competence of the physiotherapist as the technical issues of an app. The potential benefits of wearable technology for cooperation between stroke survivors and physiotherapists and as a tool for rehabilitation were highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive hip adduction and internal rotation are common movement impairments associated with patellofemoral pain (PFP). As such, strengthening of the hip abductors and external rotators commonly is recommended. Because tensor fascia latae (TFL) is a hip internal rotator in addition to being an abductor, it is important to select exercises that target the superior gluteus maximus (SUP-GMAX) and gluteus medius (GMED) while minimizing activation of the TFL. To identify hip-targeted exercises resulting in greater activation of the SUP-GMAX and GMED relative to the TFL in persons with PFP. Twelve individuals with PFP participated. Electromyographic (EMG) signals were obtained from the GMED, SUP-GMAX, and TFL using fine-wire electrodes while participants performed 11 hip-targeted exercises. Normalized EMG of GMED and SUP-GMAX was compared to that of the TFL for each exercise using repeated measures ANOVAs and descriptive statistics. Of the 11 hip exercises evaluated, only the clam exercise with elastic resistance resulted in significantly greater activity of both gluteal muscles (SUP-GMAX = 24.2 ± 14.4%MVIC, p =.05; GMED = 37.2 ± 19.7%MVIC, p =.008) relative to the TFL (12.5 ± 11.7%MVIC). Five exercises exhibited significantly lower activation of SUP-GMAX relative to TFL: 1) unilateral bridge: SUP-GMAX = 17.7 ± 9.8%MVIC, TFL = 34.0 ± 17.7%MVIC, p =.01; 2) bilateral bridge: SUP-GMAX = 10.0 ± 6.9%MVIC, TFL = 14.0 ± 7.5%MVIC, p =.04; 3) abduction: SUP-GMAX = 14.2 ± 11.1%MVIC, TFL = 33.0 ± 11.9%MVIC, p =.001; 4) hip hike: SUP-GMAX = 14.8 ± 12.8%MVIC, TFL = 46.8 ± 33.7%MVIC, p =.008; and 5) step-up: SUP-GMAX = 15.0 ± 5.4%MVIC, TFL = 31.7 ± 19.9 %MVIC, p =.02). No differences in gluteal activation relative to TFL were found for the remaining 6 exercises (all p >.05). The clam with elastic resistance exercise was effective at activating the SUP-GMAX and GMED greater than TFL. No other exercises achieved a similar level of muscular recruitment. When attempting to strengthen the gluteal muscles in persons with PFP, care should be taken in assuming that common hip-targeted exercises result in the desired recruitment patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: West syndrome (WS), also known as infantile spasm, is a rare form of severe epilepsy that begins during early infancy. This case series aimed to describe the early motor repertoire and examine the developmental function outcomes of infants with WS. Case Descriptions: Three infants (one female) with WS were assessed for early motor repertoire using the General Movement Assessment (GMA) which determined General Movement Optimality Scores (GMOS) at 4 post-term weeks of age, and Motor Optimality Scores (MOS) at 12 post-term weeks of age. Cognitive, language, and motor development were evaluated with the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development – Third Edition (Bayley-III) at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months of age. Outcomes: At 4-weeks post-term, one infant showed poor repertoire movements, while the other two showed cramped-synchronized movements with their GMOS ranging from 6 to 16 (out of 42). All infants showed sporadic/absent fidgety movements at 12 weeks post-term with their MOS ranging from 5 to 9 (out of 28). All sub-domain scores of Bayley-III were <2 SD at all follow-up assessments, that is <70, indicating severe developmental delay. Conclusion: These infants with WS had less than optimal scores of early motor repertoire, and developmental delay at a later age. Early motor repertoire might be an early sign for developmental function outcome at a later age in this population suggesting the need for additional research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amplitude-based exercise training has been shown to be effective in the motor performance of individuals with idiopathic Parkinson's disease, with limited research investigating its effects on Parkinson plus syndromes such as olivopontocerebellar atrophy (OPCA). The purpose of this clinical case report is to examine the effects of amplitude-based training exercises on an individual with OPCA. A 68-year-old man with a 14-month history of OPCA presented to physical therapy with bradykinesia, rigidity, and postural instability. The individual participated in 34 intervention sessions. Pre- and post-test measurements were collected for the following outcome measures: Five Times Sit to Stand (FTSTS); Functional Gait Assessment (FGA); Activities-Specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC-6); 9 Hole Peg Test (9HPT); preferred and maximal gait speed. Improvements reaching Minimum Detectable Change (MDC) or Minimal Clinically Important Difference (MCID) were recorded with a pre (Week 1) and post (Week 20) intervention: FGA score (4-point improvement (MDC95 = 4 points), preferred gait speed (0.09 meters/second improvement (MCID = 0.05 meters/second)), FTSTS (6-second improvement (MDC95 = 2.3 seconds)), and 9HPT on the dominant hand (3-second improvement (MDC95 = 2.6 seconds)). Fluctuations during the plan of care were observed for these measures, and additional outcomes did not demonstrate a worsening of function. In an individual with OPCA, amplitude-based exercise training as a component of the plan of care increased dynamic balance in walking, gait speed, and hand dexterity. However, these results need to be validated on a larger sample of individuals with OPCA through randomized controlled trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Training the plantar intrinsic foot muscles (PIFMs) has the potential to benefit patients with lower extremity musculoskeletal conditions as well as the aged population. Isolated foot exercises, often standard in clinical practice, are difficult to perform, whereas functional exercises are much easier to accomplish. However, it is unclear whether functional exercises are comparable to isolated foot exercises in activating the PIFMs. This study aims to compare the activation of PIFMs between functional exercises versus isolated foot exercises. Using surface electromyography (EMG), muscle activation of three PIFMs was measured in four functional exercises (i.e. normal/unstable toe stance, toe walking, and hopping) versus a muscle-specific isolated foot exercise in 29 younger adults, resulting in 12 comparisons. Functional exercises showed larger mean EMG amplitudes than the isolated foot exercises in 25% of the 12 comparisons, while there was no difference in the remaining 75%. Functional exercises provoked comparable or even more activation of the PIFMs than isolated foot exercises. Given that functional exercises are easier to perform, this finding indicates the need to further investigate the effectiveness of functional exercises in physical therapy to improve muscle function and functional task performance in populations that suffer from PIFM weakness or dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the changes in health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and sleep quality following a supervised combined exercise (EX) program compared to a Treatment‐As‐Usual (TAU) and to analyze the relationship between the differences in cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and HRQoL domains in people with schizophrenia (SZ). Methods: The SZ (n = 112, 41.3 ± 10.4 year) was randomly assigned into a TAU control group (n = 53) or EX‐group (n = 59, 3 days/week). The 36‐item Short‐Form Health Survey questionnaire assessed HRQoL and the sleep quality analysis (accelerometry). Results: After the intervention (20 weeks), physical functioning (∆ = 12.9%), general health (∆ = 15.3%), mental health (∆ = 8.3%), physical component summary (PCS) (∆ = 5.1%), and sleep efficiency (∆ = 1.9%) increased (p < 0.05) in the EX, with no significant changes in the TAU for any domains studied. There were significant differences between groups whose EX showed improvements (p < 0.05) compared to TAU in physical functioning, general health, PCS, and sleep efficiency. A greater CRF was associated with better values in physical functioning, role‐physical, bodily pain, general health, vitality, and PCS after the exercise program in SZ. Conclusions: A 20‐week supervised combined exercise intervention program for SZ increased sleep efficiency and physical functioning, general and mental health, and PCS scores. This could lead to a critical HRQoL change from how they were to how they should be. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03509597 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Physical activity referral schemes (PARS) are composed of various components, such as a written prescription or a person-centered approach. The role of these components in their effectiveness is yet to be understood. Therefore, we aimed to explore the relationships between PARS components and physical activity, scheme uptake, and adherence rate; and to estimate the effect of PARS. Methods: We searched Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, HTA, Wiley Online Library, SAGE Journals, Taylor & Francis, Google Scholar, OpenGrey, and CORE. Eligible studies were published between 1990 and November 2023 in English or German, investigated PARS with participants aged ≥ 16 years, and reported physical activity, scheme uptake, or scheme adherence. Separate random-effects meta-analysis by comparison group were conducted for physical activity. Scheme uptake and adherence rates were pooled using proportional meta-analysis. The components were analyzed via univariate meta-regression. We rated the risk of bias using RoB2 and ROBINS-I, and the certainty of evidence using GRADE. Results: Fifty-two studies were included. PARS were more effective in increasing physical activity than usual care (k = 11, n = 5046, Hedges' g = 0.18, 95%CI 0.12 to 0.25; high certainty of evidence). When PARS were compared with physical activity advice or enhanced scheme versions, the pooled Hedges' g values for physical activity were -0.06 (k = 5, n = 1082, 95%CI -0.21 to 0.10; low certainty of evidence), and 0.07 (k = 9, n = 2647, 95%CI -0.03 to 0.18; low certainty of evidence) respectively. Scheme uptake was 87% (95%CI 77% to 94%, k = 14, n = 5000) across experimental studies and 68% (95%CI 51% to 83%, k = 14, n = 25,048) across non-experimental studies. Pooled scheme adherence was 68% (95%CI 55% to 80%, k = 16, n = 3939) and 53% (95%CI 42% to 63%, k = 18, n = 14,605). The meta-regression did not detect any significant relationships between components and physical activity or scheme uptake. A person-centered approach, screening, and brief advice were positively associated with scheme adherence, while physical activity sessions were negatively associated. Conclusion: PARS are more effective in increasing physical activity than usual care only. We did not identify any components as significant predictors of physical activity and scheme uptake. Four components predicted scheme adherence, indicating that the component-effectiveness relationship warrants further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and objectives: Kidney transplantation is an effective treatment for end-stage kidney disease. Kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) are prone to experiencing reduced physical function, depression, fatigue, and lack of exercise motivation due to their sedentary lifestyle before surgery. Exercise is an effective intervention for KTRs, but it has not been properly implemented in many practice settings. This project aimed to promote evidence-based exercises as part of KTRs' rehabilitation to improve their health outcomes. Methods: This project was informed by the JBI Evidence Implementation Framework. The project was conducted in the organ transplant ward of a tertiary comprehensive hospital in Changsha, China. Based on a summary of best evidence, 12 audit criteria were developed for the baseline and follow-up audits involving 30 patients and 20 nursing staff. The JBI Practical Application of Clinical Evidence System (PACES) and Getting Research into Practice (GRiP) tool were used to identify barriers and facilitators and develop targeted strategies to improve issues. Results: Compared with the baseline audit, significant improvements were achieved in most of the criteria in the follow-up audit, with 9 of the 12 criteria reaching 100% compliance. Notably, the 6-minute walk distance test results were significantly higher, while the Self-Rating Depression Scale and Self-Rating Anxiety Scale scores were significantly lower (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This project demonstrates that evidence-based practice can improve the clinical practice of rehabilitation exercises for KTRs. The GRiP strategies proved to be extremely useful, notably, the formulation of a standardized rehabilitation exercise protocol, training, and enhancement of the exercising environment. Head nurses' leadership and decision-making also played an important role in the success of this project. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intense interval exercise training has been shown to improve performance and health of untrained and trained people. However, due to the exercise intensity causing high‐perceived exertion, the participants often do not wish to continue the training. The 10‐20‐30 training concept consists of low intensity for 30 s, 20 s at a moderate pace, and then 10 s with high intensity either running or cycling. A 10‐20‐30 training session consist of two to four 5‐min blocks. The 10‐20‐30 training improved fitness and performance as well as lowered blood pressure and body fat of both untrained and trained individuals even with a significant reduction in the training volume. Similarly, hypertensive, diabetic, and asthmatic patients lowered body fat, improved fitness, and performance during a 10‐20‐30‐training intervention period. In addition, hypertensive patients reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure markedly with the 10‐20‐30 training twice a week for 8 weeks. Diabetic patients lowered long‐term blood sugar (HbA1c), which did not occur with moderate‐intensity exercise training. Furthermore, asthmatic patients improved their control of asthma and asthma‐related quality of life with the 10‐20‐30 training. The adherence for the patient groups was high (>80%), and no adverse events were reported. Thus, the 10‐20‐30 training seems to be time efficient and feasible for untrained and trained individuals as well as patients and may be used in the prevention and treatment of noncommunicable diseases. Highlights: What is already known? Aerobic moderate‐intensity exercise training has been shown to improve fitness and health of untrained individuals.Intense exercise training has been shown to benefit some patient groups, but many patients are struggling with the training due to the strenuous effort experienced during training.Untrained individuals and patients have difficulties to find time and motivation to do physical activities. What are the findings? The 10‐20‐30 training is a new training modality, which has greater benefits than aerobic moderate‐intensity training, and is a more time‐efficient way to improve performance and health even in trained people.The 10‐20‐30 training reduces blood pressure and body fat in untrained and already trained people even with lowered training volume.The 10‐20‐30 training is feasible for hypertensive, diabetic, and asthmatic patients, who with the 10‐20‐30 training are reducing blood pressure, improve long‐term blood sugar management, and lower symptoms of asthma, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the perceptions of physiotherapists on the use of digital health to promote physical activity (PA) in Parkinson's disease. A cross sectional survey focusing on demographics, current use of technology and digital skills, digital health delivery of PA interventions, advantages and barriers to digital health. Members of the gerontology and neurology clinical interest group of the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists were invited to participate. Survey responses were analysed using descriptive statistics and inductive content analysis. A response rate of 65% was achieved (139/215). Respondents were confident in using digital health to promote PA and reported a moderate-high level of digital skills. The advantages of digital health included ease of access, easier monitoring of symptoms and increased patient self-efficacy. Barriers included lack of digital skills, poor internet access, lack of access to technology and lack of personal contact. Respondents suggested that a blended approach of initial face to face assessment with digital health follow up would be the best approach to using digital health in this patient group. This study illustrates Irish physiotherapists' perceptions of the use of digital health interventions and perceived barriers and motivators for the use of digital health among PwP. This study offers useful perspectives on how to use digital health to promote PA in PwP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of this study was to assess the influence of exercise interventions on cancer-related fatigue (CRF), specifically in breast cancer patients, with the ultimate goal of establishing an optimal exercise prescription for breast cancer patients. A comprehensive search was undertaken across multiple databases, including Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus, covering data published up to 1 September 2023. A meta-analysis was conducted to calculate the standardized mean difference (SMD) along with its corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI), thereby quantifying the effectiveness of exercise in alleviating CRF in the breast cancer patient population. Twenty-six studies met the inclusion criteria. Aerobic exercise (SMD, −0.17, p = 0.02), resistance exercise (SMD, −0.37, p = 0.0009), and combined exercise (SMD, −0.53, p < 0.0001) significantly improved CRF in breast cancer patients. In addition, exercise intervention conducted ≥3 times per week (SMD, −0.47, p = 0.0001) for >60 min per session (SMD, −0.63, p < 0.0001) and ≥180 min per week (SMD, −0.79, p < 0.0001) had greater effects on improving CRF in breast cancer patients, especially middle-aged patients (SMD, −0.42, p < 0.0001). Exercise is an effective approach to improving CRF in breast cancer patients. When devising an exercise program, the primary consideration should be the incorporation of combined exercise as the principal intervention. This entails ensuring that participants engage in the program at least three times weekly, with each session lasting for more than 60 min. The ultimate aim is to achieve a total weekly exercise duration of 180 min by progressively increasing the frequency of exercise sessions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sarcopenia, the age-related decline in muscle mass and function, poses a significant health challenge as the global population ages. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a key factor in sarcopenia, as evidenced by the role of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) in mitochondrial biogenesis and dynamics, as well as mitophagy. Resistance exercise training (RET) is a well-established intervention for sarcopenia; however, its effects on the mitochondria in aging skeletal muscles remain unclear. This review aims to elucidate the relationship between mitochondrial dynamics and sarcopenia, with a specific focus on the implications of RET. Although aerobic exercise training (AET) has traditionally been viewed as more effective for mitochondrial enhancement, emerging evidence suggests that RET may also confer beneficial effects. Here, we highlight the potential of RET to modulate mtROS, drive mitochondrial biogenesis, optimize mitochondrial dynamics, and promote mitophagy in aging skeletal muscles. Understanding this interplay offers insights for combating sarcopenia and preserving skeletal muscle health in aging individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Inflammation is a pathological characteristic in some first-episode psychosis cohorts. • Negative symptoms have been consistently linked with inflammatory abnormalities. • 6-weeks of exercise significantly reduced IL-6 and Th-cell ratio in psychosis. • Regular exercise training caused a reduction in negative symptomology. • Exercise may be useful as adjunct therapy for individuals experiencing psychosis. First-Episode Psychosis (FEP) is a devastating mental health condition that commonly emerges during early adulthood, and is characterised by a disconnect in perceptions of reality. Current evidence suggests that inflammation and perturbed immune responses are involved in the pathology of FEP and may be associated specifically with negative symptoms. Exercise training is a potent anti-inflammatory stimulus that can reduce persistent inflammation, and can improve mood profiles in general populations. Therefore, exercise may represent a novel adjunct therapy for FEP. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of exercise on biomarkers of inflammation, negative symptoms of psychosis, and physiological health markers in FEP. Seventeen young males (26.67 ± 6.64 years) were recruited from Birmingham Early Intervention in Psychosis Services and randomised to a 6-week exercise programme consisting of two-to-three sessions per week that targeted 60–70 % heart-rate max (HRMax), or a treatment as usual (TAU) condition. Immune T-helper (Th-) cell phenotypes and cytokines, symptom severity, functional wellbeing, and cognition were assessed before and after 6-weeks of regular exercise. Participants in the exercise group (n = 10) achieved 81.11 % attendance to the intervention, with an average exercise intensity of 67.54 % ± 7.75 % HRMax. This led to favourable changes in immune cell phenotypes, and a significant reduction in the Th1:Th2 ratio (−3.86 %) compared to the TAU group (p = 0.014). After the exercise intervention, there was also a significant reduction in plasma IL-6 concentration (–22.17 %) when compared to the TAU group (p = 0.006). IL-8, and IL-10 did not show statistically significant differences between the groups after exercise. Symptomatically, there was a significant reduction in negative symptoms after exercise (−13.54 %, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, (PANSS) Negative) when compared to the TAU group (p = 0.008). There were no significant change in positive or general symptoms, functional outcomes, or cognition (all p > 0.05). Regular moderate-to-vigorous physical activity is feasible and attainable in clinical populations. Exercise represents a physiological tool that is capable of causing significant inflammatory biomarker change and concomitant symptom improvements in FEP cohorts, and may be useful for treatment of symptom profiles that are not targeted by currently prescribed antipsychotic medication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Both HIIT and MICT improved PIA-induced depression and anxiety by inhibiting glial activation. • HIIT was superior to MICT in alleviating anxiety-like and depresive-like behaviors in PIA mice. • HIIT ameliorated PIA-induced abnormalities and increases glia-derived IL-4 and BDNF release by specifically regulating KDM6B. Postnatal immune activation (PIA) induces persistent glial activation in the brain and causes various neuropathologies in adults. Exercise training improves stress-related mood disorders; however, the role of exercise in psychiatric disorders induced by early-life immune activation and the association between exercise training and glial activation remain unclear. We compared the effects of different exercise intensities on the PIA model, including high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT). Both HIIT and MICT in adolescent mice inhibited neuroinflammation, remodeled synaptic plasticity, and improved PIA-induced mood disorders in adulthood. Importantly, HIIT was superior to MICT in terms of reducing inflammation and increasing body weight. RNA-seq of prefrontal cortex (PFC) tissues revealed a gene expression pattern, confirming that HIIT was more effective than MICT in improving brain glial cell activation through epigenetic modifications of KDM6B. We investigated the role of KDM6B, a specific histone lysine demethylation enzyme — histone 3 lysine 27 demethylase, in inhibiting glial activation against PIA-induced depression and anxiety by regulating the expression of IL-4 and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Overall, our data support the idea that HIIT improves PIA-induced mood disorders by regulating KDM6B-mediated epigenetic mechanisms and indicate that HIIT might be superior to MICT in improving mood disorders with PIA in mice. Our findings provide new insights into the treatment of anxiety and depression disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depression is a growing public health concern, and exercise is an adjunctive treatment modality to improve depression, but the optimal form of exercise and the optimal dose are still unclear. This systematic review examined the efficacy of four major types of exercise (aerobic, resistance, mixed, and mind-body) on depression, as well as the dose-response relationship between total and specific exercise and depressive symptoms. We included randomized controlled trials that included participants aged 18 years or older with a diagnosis of major depressive disorder or a depressive symptom score above a threshold as determined by a validated screening measure, implemented one or more exercise therapy groups, and assessed depressive symptoms at baseline and follow-up. Forty-six studies (3164 patients) were included in the meta-analysis. Aerobic (standardised mean difference (SMD) = -0.93; 95% CI: -1.25 to -0.62) and mind-body exercise (SMD) = -0.81; 95% CI: -1.19 to -0.42) improved depressive symptoms better compared to controls, followed by mixed (SMD = -0.77; 95% CI: -1.20 to -0.34) and resistance exercise (SMD = -0.76; 95% CI: -1.24 to -0.28). This dose-response meta-analysis showed a U-shaped curve between exercise dose and depressive symptoms. The minimum effective dose was estimated to be 320 metabolic equivalent (METs) -min per week and the optimal response was 860 METs-min per week. These findings lead us to advocate that clinicians carefully select the appropriate dose of exercise based on the patient's individual characteristics and needs, in conjunction with psychological care interventions. • Aerobic, resistance, mixed and mind-body exercise interventions have significant and comparable benefits in improving clinical depressive symptoms in patients with MDD. • There was a U-shaped dose-response relationship between overall exercise volume and depression level, with the maximum significant response occurring at 860 METs-min, and a minimal clinically meaningful difference (MCID) in depression improvement with 477 METs-min of exercise per week. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rehabilitation treatments for patients with severe burn injury (SBI) are difficult owing to the lack of knowledge, skills, and experience among clinicians and physical and occupational therapists, resulting in serious patient disability. This study retrospectively evaluated the effectiveness of rehabilitation treatments jointly considered by physiatrists and rehabilitation therapists (Physiatrist and Registered therapist Operating rehabilitation: PROr) for patients with SBI admitted to our hospital's burn intensive care unit (BICU). Eligible patients were classified into the PROr and standard rehabilitation (SR) groups. Contents of the rehabilitation program in the BICU, the functional ambulation categories (FAC), and the Barthel index at the first rehabilitation, BICU discharge, and hospital discharge were collected. Of the 184 patients with severe burns admitted to the BICU, 29 (PROr group, n = 16; SR group, n = 13) met the eligibility criteria. The PROr group received more types of exercise interventions for a longer time than the SR group. No significant differences in the FAC and Barthel index scores at the first time of rehabilitation were found between the two groups; however, the scores of FAC and Barthel index at BICU and hospital discharges were higher in the PROr group than in the SR group. The PROr program may help in the functional improvement of patients with SBI. • This study tested the effect of rehabilitation by physiatrist in severe burns. • Rehabilitation by physiatrist and therapist provided more types of exercise. • Differences in rehabilitation contents affected functional improvements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared the capacity of two different models of HIIT [high‐(HC) and low‐(LC) compression], with or without the use of berberine (BBR), on NOD‐like receptor pyrin domain‐containing protein‐3 (NLRP3), H19, interleukin (IL)‐1β, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP), and insulin resistance markers. Fifty‐four middle‐aged men with overweight or obesity and prediabetes [fasting blood glucose (FBG) 110–180 mg/dL] were randomly and equally assigned to the HC, LC, HC + BBR, LC + BBR, BBR, and non‐exercising control (CON) groups. The HC (2:1 work‐to‐rest) and LC (1:1 work‐to‐rest) home‐based training programs included 2–4 sets of 8 exercises at 80%–95% HRmax, twice a week for 8 weeks. Participants in the berberine groups received approximately 1000 mg daily. All exercise interventions led to a significant reduction in hs‐CRP, IL‐1β, insulin, FBG, and insulin resistance index (HOMA‐IR) versus CON. Notably, there was a significant reduction in FBG and HOMA‐IR with the BBR group compared to the baseline. Both NLRP3 and H19 experienced a significant drop only with LC in comparison to the baseline. While both exercise protocols were beneficial overall, LC uniquely exhibited more anti‐inflammatory effects, as indicated by reductions in H19 and NLRP3. However, the addition of berberine to the exercise programs did not demonstrate additional benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Exercise is well known to decrease the risk of breast cancer. The cellular processes that contribute to exercise-induced cancer prevention are less known. We conducted an exercise training study in rats given a chemical to induce breast cancer. Exercise increased the length of time to development of breast cancer in rats. However, when we gave the rats an antibody which binds to a certain cellular protein (oncostatin M), exercise-induced protection against breast cancer was not observed. These observations may be useful in future studies as the oncostatin M protein is produced by muscles. Thus, these results support a link between muscle use during exercise and breast cancer prevention. Future studies may examine oncostatin M and other proteins produced by exercising muscles for their potential role in breast cancer prevention. Moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity decreases the risk of breast cancer. The muscle-derived cytokine (myokine), oncostatin M (OSM), has been shown to decrease breast cancer cell proliferation. We hypothesized that OSM is involved in physical activity-induced breast cancer prevention, and that OSM antibody (Anti-OSM) administration would mitigate the effect of physical activity in a rat model of mammary carcinoma. Female Sprague Dawley rats were injected with 50 mg/kg N-methyl-N-nitrosourea to induce mammary carcinogenesis. During the 20-week study, rats were exercise trained (EX) or remained sedentary (SED). Additional groups were treated with Anti-OSM antibody (SED + Anti-OSM and EX + Anti-OSM) to explore the impact of OSM blockade on tumor latency. Exercise training consisted of treadmill acclimation and progressive increases in session duration, speed, and grade, until reaching 30 min/day, 20 m/min at 15% incline. Experimentally naïve, age-matched, female rats also completed an acute exercise test (AET) with time course blood draws to evaluate OSM plasma concentrations. Relative tumor-free survival time was significantly longer in EX animals (1.36 ± 0.39) compared to SED animals (1.00 ± 0.17; p = 0.009), SED + Anti-OSM animals (0.90 ± 0.23; p = 0.019), and EX + Anti-OSM animals (0.93 ± 0.74; p = 0.004). There were no significant differences in relative tumor latency between SED, SED + Anti-OSM, or EX + Anti-OSM animals. Following the AET, OSM plasma levels trended higher compared to baseline OSM levels (p = 0.080). In conclusion, we observed that exercise-induced delay of mammary tumor development was mitigated through Anti-OSM administration. Thus, future studies of the OSM mechanism are required to lay the groundwork for developing novel chemo-prevention strategies in women who are unable or unwilling to exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]