Search PubMed⌕ Search

SEARCH · Search PubMed

Results for “Program Activities”

Search indexed PubMed citations on genomics, clinical trials, systematic reviews and public health. Explore titles, authors and supplied subject terms, then open the PubMed record.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

The effectiveness of worksite physical activity programs on physical activity, physical fitness, and health.

OBJECTIVE: To critically review the literature with respect to the effectiveness of worksite physical activity programs on physical activity, physical fitness, and health. DATA SOURCES: A search for relevant English-written papers published between 1980 and 2000 was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE, Sportdiscus, CINAHL, and Psychlit. The key words used involved a combination of concepts regarding type of study, study population, intervention, and outcome measure. In addition, a search was performed in our personal databases, as well as a reference search of the studies retrieved. STUDY SELECTION: The following criteria for inclusion were used: 1) randomized, controlled trial or nonrandomized, controlled trial; 2) working population; 3) worksite intervention program to promote employees' physical activity or physical fitness; and 4) physical activity, physical fitness, or health-related outcomes. DATA EXTRACTION: Two reviewers independently evaluated the quality of relevant studies using a predefined set of nine methodological criteria. Conclusions regarding the effectiveness of a worksite physical activity programs were based on a rating system consisting of five levels of evidence. DATA SYNTHESIS: Fifteen randomized, controlled trials and 11 nonrandomized, controlled trials met the criteria for inclusion and were reviewed. Six randomized, controlled trials and none of the nonrandomized, controlled trials were of high methodological quality. Strong evidence was found for a positive effect of a worksite physical activity program on physical activity and musculoskeletal disorders. Limited evidence was found for a positive effect on fatigue. For physical fitness, general health, blood serum lipids, and blood pressure, inconclusive or no evidence was found for a positive effect. CONCLUSIONS: To increase the level of physical activity and to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, we support implementation of worksite physical activity programs. For the other outcome measures, scientific evidence of the effectiveness of such a program is still limited or inconclusive, which is mainly the result of the small number of high-quality trials. Therefore, we recommend performing more randomized, controlled trials of high methodological quality, taking into account criteria such as randomization, blinding, and compliance.

Health Promotion↗

Distinct orientation of the alloreactive monoclonal CD8 T cell activation program by three different peptide/MHC complexes.

We have characterized three different programs of activation for alloreactive CD8 T cells expressing the BM3.3 TCR, their elicitation depending on the characteristics of the stimulating peptide/MHC complex. The high-affinity interaction between the TCR and the K(b)-associated endogenous peptide pBM1 (INFDFNTI) induced a complete differentiation program into effector cells correlated with sustained ERK activation. The K(bm8) variant elicited a partial activation program with delayed T cell proliferation, poor CTL activity and undetectable ERK phosphorylation; this resulted from a low-avidity interaction of TCR BM3.3 with a newly identified endogenous peptide, pBM8 (SQYYYNSL). Interestingly, mismatched pBM1/K(bm8) complexes induced a split response in BM3.3 T cells, with total reconstitution of T cell proliferation but defective generation of CTL activity that was correlated with strong but shortened ERK phosphorylation. Crystal structures highlight the molecular basis for the higher stability of pBM8/K(bm8) compared to pBM1/K(bm8) complexes that exist in two conformers. This study illustrates the importance of the stability of both peptide/MHC and peptide/MHC-TCR interactions for induction of sustained signaling required to induce optimal CTL effector functions. Subtle allelic structural variations, amplified by peptide selection, may thus orient distinct outcomes of alloreactive TCR-based therapies.

Animals↗

Effects of continuous activity programming on behavioral symptoms of dementia.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the effect of continuous activity programming on behavioral symptoms of dementia. DESIGN: Observational study based on quality improvement data. SETTING: Two Dementia Special Care Units in different locations. PARTICIPANTS: Ninety veterans with dementia provided with long-tem care. INTERVENTION: Continuous activity programming. MEASUREMENTS: Data were extracted from the MDS files and obtained by questionnaires filled out by staff members not involved in activity programming. RESULTS: Two settings of continuous activity programming, requiring no additional staffing, resulted in increased number of hours residents were involved in activities, decreased use of psychotropic medications, improved nutrition, and increased family satisfaction without additional staff. When additional staff was available, more intensive continuous activity programming further decreased agitation and improved sleep. CONCLUSION: Continuous activity programming may be instituted without staffing change but the benefit is increased if additional staffing is available.

Aged↗

Mobility, strength, and fitness after a graded activity program for patients with subacute low back pain. A randomized prospective clinical study with a behavioral therapy approach.

Patients with nonspecific mechanical low back pain (n = 103), examined by an orthopaedic surgeon and a social worker, were randomized to an activity group (n = 51) and a control group (n = 52). Patients with defined orthopaedic, medical, or psychiatric diagnoses were excluded before randomization. No patients were excluded due to place of birth or difficulties in speaking or understanding the Swedish language. The purpose of the study was to compare mobility, strength and fitness after traditional care and after traditional care plus a graded activity program with a behavioral therapy approach. A graded activity program, with a behavioral therapy approach was given under the guidance of a physical therapist. The endpoint of the graded activity program was return to work. This program significantly increased mobility, strength, and fitness more than could be explained by only a time recovery effect, especially in males. The patients in the activity group returned to work earlier than did the patients in the control group. Spinal rotation, abdominal muscle endurance time and lifting capacity were significantly correlated to rate of return to work. Traditional care plus a graded activity program were superior to only traditional care, evaluated in terms of mobility, strength and fitness. The graded activity program proved to be a successful method of restoring occupational function and facilitating return to work in subacute low back pain patients. The patients in the graded activity program learned that it is safe to move, while regaining function.

Back Pain↗

A measurement of attitudes about an activity program.

Staff and patient attitudes about an activity program were measured to highlight problems that existed in a paritcular milieu. Statements concerning the rationale for this activity program were compared to determine the similarities and differences between staff and patient perceptions of the program. To create a more therapeutic milieu, suggestions for openness and sharing were made based on the results of the attitude study. Their implementation would require staff and patients to interact on a more nearly equal basis. Such an approach is a bias toward the Maxwell Jones philosophy of therapeutic milieu, the direction in which the ward staff of this study wanted to go. This paper offers a way for the staff to reach their goal and suggests several paths they might take. The attitude questionnaire method used in this study might be a useful tool for those who are studying the therapeutic aspects of ward milieu.

Attitude↗

Attitudes to increased involvement of relatives in the care of cancer patients. Evaluation of an activation program.

The present study explored whether an "activation program" for relatives of cancer patients increases the frequency and duration of the relatives' visits at the hospital. It also explored the willingness of relatives to participate in patient care at the hospital and at home. Similarly, the patients' willingness to contribute to this process was examined. Relatives offered an activation program were compared by interview with relatives subjected to a routine program. Interviews were repeated at intervals of 3-4 weeks. The attitude of 67 relatives (31 in the activation group and 36 in the comparison group) were examined twice during the patient's treatment period. Of these relatives, a subgroup of 42 (22 in the activation group and 20 in the comparison group) experienced the death of the patient during the study period. At the time of the last interview, there was a difference between the groups in relatives' willingness to care for the patient at home. Contrary to expectations, more of the relatives (of all patients receiving treatment as well as the subgroup of patients who died) in the activation group were "completely unwilling" to care for the patient at home (p less than 0.05 and p less than 0.01, respectively).

Attitude↗

[Activities programs for institutionalized elderly patients with dementia].

Formal caregivers often play an important role in leading activities programs and arranging appropriate therapeutic activities in institutions. Studies have shown that, when elderly patients with dementia have participated in more structured activities, agitated behaviors have been significantly decreased. Also, structured activities have helped in the performance of ADL, as well as improved quality of sleep, decreased anxiety, improved self-expression and social interaction, enhanced caregiver's morale, and resulted in a more positive caring attitude on the part of caregivers. This article will discuss the categories and contents of activities programs for elderly patients with dementia and can be applied as a reference to assist formal caregivers in their efforts to arrange appropriate activities programs in institutions.

Aged↗

Role of physical therapists in physical activity programs in nursing homes: a survey.

A survey was conducted to help define the role of physical therapists in physical activity programs in nursing homes. Questionnaires were completed by 64 physical therapists working in nursing homes of 130--150 bed capacity. The major factors studied were employment status, work-time at the facility, interprofessional relationships, and available equipment and space. Of the respondents, 43.7 percent were involved in physical activity programs, the most common roles being staff instruction and consultation. Only a small percentage of the time was used for programs; most of the time was occupied with individual physical therapy treatment. The principal types of programs with physical therapist involvement were ambulation and gait training, bed exercises, and general group exercises. Equipment and space seemed adequate. Physical therapists were likely to be involved in physical activity programs if: 1) they were employed by the nursing homes, were paid on a salary basis, worked at the nursing homes full-time or nearly full-time, and did not work elsewhere; 2) such programs were mentioned during discussion of the work agreement; and 3) the coordinator of the physical activity programs was an occupational therapist or a nurse rather than an activities director or recreational therapist.

Aged↗

The Nutrition and Physical Activity Program to Prevent Obesity and Other Chronic Diseases: monitoring progress in funded states.

To help address the challenges posed by the obesity epidemic in the United States, the U.S. Congress authorized the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to establish the Nutrition and Physical Activity Program to Prevent Obesity and Other Chronic Diseases. In this article, we summarize the progress of the first 20 states funded by this program. The data presented are based on the information provided by the states in their semiannual progress monitoring reports on program activities from January through June 2004. The states have made progress in developing capacity and infrastructure for their programs, including leveraging financial resources and developing strong partnerships. In addition, they are planning and initiating environmental changes through legislation, and, although less frequently, through policies and other changes such as expanding physical activity opportunities. Collectively, the states are making progress in planning and implementing activities to prevent and control obesity and other chronic diseases.

Adolescent↗

Characteristics of physical activity programs for older adults: results of a multisite survey.

PURPOSE: Although increased participation in physical activity by older adults is a major public health goal, little is known about the supply and use of physical activity programs in the United States. DESIGN AND METHODS: Seven academic centers in diverse geographic areas surveyed physical activity programs for older adults. Five sites conducted surveys by mail with telephone follow-up, and two administered surveys primarily by telephone. Reported program attendance rates were compared with local census data to assess unmet needs. RESULTS: Of the 2,110 targeted facilities, 77% responded. Aerobic programs were offered by 73%, flexibility by 47%, and strength training by 26%. Commercial gyms or YMCAs, senior centers, park or recreation centers, and senior-housing facilities offered 90% of available programs. The 2000 Census enumerated 1,123,401 total older adults across the seven sites. Facilities reported 69,634 individuals as current weekly program participants, equaling 6% of the sites' total older-adult population. This percentage varied from 3% in Pittsburgh to 28% in Colorado. IMPLICATIONS: Based on conservative estimates of demand, the number of physical activity programs would have to increase substantially (by 78%) to meet the needs of older adults. The data also indicate the need to develop more strength-training programs and to engage a higher percentage of older adults in these programs. There is a clear need to stimulate demand for programs through health promotion.

Aged↗

Effects of a physical activity program on postural stability in older people.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: The objective of this non-randomized study was to determine the influence of a specific physical activity program on the postural stability of older people. METHODS: Seventy-four subjects (72.4 +/- 0.7 yrs) participated in an individualized three-month physical activity program designed to improve posture, balance and mobility--the PBM program. Sessions were held twice weekly. Postural stability was assessed using a force platform, subjects being in static and dynamic conditions, and with open and closed eyes. Changes in stabilometric parameters (Sway area, ML mean, AP mean, Total length, ML length and AP length) of the intervention group were compared to those of 14 control subjects (71.8 +/- 1.5 years). RESULTS: A two-way analysis of variance with repeated measures did not show any significant post-program change in postural stability in the hard floor condition. In contrast, Sway area (p < 0.0005), Total length (p < 0.001) and AP length (p < 0.01) were significantly reduced after the training program in the foam floor condition, with open and closed eyes. In addition, in the medio-lateral axis condition and with closed eyes, AP length in the intervention group was significantly reduced (p < 0.01), and in the antero-posterior axis condition with both open and closed eyes, Sway area (p < 0.0005), Total length (p < 0.0005) and AP length (p < 0.05) decreased significantly. CONCLUSIONS: As shown by the results in the foam floor and dynamic conditions, our individualized physical activity program improved the postural stability of older people when the standing position was challenged. However, the lack of significant results for the hard floor condition suggests that three months is not sufficient to improve static balance. The PBM physical activity program can be used for balance training in older people, but further studies are required to determine the time needed to effect improvements in static balance in this population.

Aged↗

Building a foundation for systems change: increasing access to physical activity programs for older adults.

Although 25% of U.S. adults are physically inactive, this percentage increases dramatically for older adults. Organizational change theory guided a state health department in identifying system gaps and developing strategies to expand programming for seniors. A survey of provider agencies in New Jersey assessed (a) capacity for physical activity programs for older adults, (b) accessibility of programs, and (c) barriers to providing programs. One hundred sixty agencies provided physical activity programs to almost 184,000 individuals annually. Fewer than one half of the agencies provided exercise programs for people with disabilities, and only 44% provided in-home programs. Eighty-two percent of program providers wanted to expand programming but cited lack of trained instructors and peer leaders, inadequate facility space, insufficient funding, and limited transportation resources as barriers. Sustaining older adult behavior change requires infrastructure that will ensure access to diverse physical activities. This article provides strategies to expand access to physical activity programs for older adults.

Aged↗

Active for Life After Cancer: a randomized trial examining a lifestyle physical activity program for prostate cancer patients.

BACKGROUND: Active for Life After Cancer is a randomized trial evaluating the efficacy of a 6-month group-based lifestyle physical activity program (Lifestyle) for prostate cancer patients to improve quality of life (QOL) including physical and emotional functioning compared to a group-based Educational Support Program and a Standard Care Program (no group). METHOD: A total of 134 prostate cancer patients receiving continuous androgen-ablation were randomly assigned to one of the three study conditions. RESULTS: Results indicated no significant improvements in QOL at 6 or 12 months. Both group-based programs were positively received and yielded good attendance and retention. Lifestyle participants demonstrated significant improvements in most theoretical mediators proposed by the Transtheoretical Model and Social Cognitive Theory to affect physical activity. Despite these improvements, no significant changes were found for most physical activity measures. CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest a lifestyle program focusing on cognitive-behavioral skills training alone is insufficient for promoting routine physical activity in these patients.

Adaptation, Psychological↗

Family planning program activity and patient enrollment rates in the United States, 1969 and 1971.

The effects of demographic characteristics, socioeconomic conditions, health care, and family planning program activity on patient enrollment rates are estimated for 1969 and 1971. Two program activity variables (agencies and clinic locations) have significant, positive net effects in both years. The effect of agencies changed little between 1969 and 1971, and it is the strongest effect in both years. The effect of clinic locations more than doubled between 1969 and 1971, partly due to increased demand. The direct effects of the demographic, socioeconomic, and health care variables are not large, but many of the demographic and socioeconomic variables have substantial indirect effects via health care program activity.

Demography↗

Programmed activation of T-lymphocytes. A theoretical basis for short term treatment of AIDS with azidothymidine.

When its T-lymphocyte host cell is activated, the latent (DNA) form of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is activated to produce RNA copies which are liberated as virus particles from the cell. In this process the cell is destroyed together with the latent virus. If administered at this time, 3'-azidothymidine (AZT) would specifically prevent the liberated RNA copies replicating and establishing latency in new host cells. The RNA copies would then be degraded by viral or host ribonucleases. Thus, one DNA copy of HIV and its RNA progeny would be eliminated from the body. However, many DNA copies of HIV would remain in other cells. The main problem of therapy with AZT is that activation of host cells to become permissive for production of virus is random in time. Activation depends on chance encounters of an infected person with the particular foreign antigens to which individual T-cells bearing latent HIV can specifically respond. It is primarily for this reason that AZT must be administered continuously. If all T-cell could be polyclonally stimulated at one time, all HIV-bearing T-cells would be destroyed and concomitant administration of AZT for a short term would prevent the replication of all liberated viruses. Unlike most renewable 'end' cells in the body, the maturation of T cells involves processes of positive and negative selection. To preserve the 'educated' T-cell population, T-cell renewal occurs at the end cell, rather than at the stem cell level. It is possible that normal physiological signals concerned with this homeostatic regulation of T-lymphocyte population size could be harnessed to produce synchronous activation of all T-lymphocytes. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha has some of the properties expected of a postulated polyclonal activator needed for this programmed activation of T-lymphocytes.

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome↗

Response of oxidative stress biomarkers to a 16-week aerobic physical activity program, and to acute physical activity, in healthy young men and women.

Physical activity (PA) is associated with a reduced risk of coronary heart disease, and may favorably modify the antioxidant-prooxidant balance. This study assessed the effects of aerobic PA training on antioxidant enzyme activity, oxidized LDL concentration, and LDL resistance to oxidation, as well as the effect of acute PA on antioxidant enzyme activity before and after the training period. Seventeen sedentary healthy young men and women were recruited for 16 weeks of training. The activity of superoxide dismutase in erythrocytes (E-SOD), glutathione peroxidase in whole blood (GSH-Px), and glutathione reductase in plasma (P-GR), and the oxidized LDL concentration and LDL composition, diameter, and resistance to oxidation were determined before and after training. Shortly before and after this training period they also performed a bout of aerobic PA for 30 min. The antioxidant enzyme activity was also determined at 0 min, 30 min, 60 min, 120 min, and 24 h after both bouts of PA. Training induces an increase in GSH-Px (27.7%), P-GR (17.6%), and LDL resistance to oxidation, and a decrease in oxidized LDL (-15.9%). After the bout of PA, an increase in E-SOD and GSH-Px was observed at 0 min, with a posterior decrease in enzyme activity until 30-60 min, and a tendency to recover the basal values at 120 min and 24 h. Training did not modify this global response pattern. Regular PA increases endogenous antioxidant activity and LDL resistance to oxidation, and decreases oxidized LDL concentration; 30 min of aerobic PA decreases P-GR and B-GSH-Px activity in the first 30-60 min with a posterior recovery.

Adult↗

Development of an ecological assessment tool for a workplace physical activity program standard.

This project was undertaken to develop a Workplace Physical Activity Assessment Tool to evaluate workplace physical activity programs based on a standard of best practices indicated in the literature and by key stakeholders. The development of the Assessment Tool was structured on an ecological model for health and physical activity promotion and an occupational health and safety audit instrument. The project included a review and synthesis of pertinent literature, expert and stakeholder reviews, interrater reliability appraisals, and workplace consultations over three distinct study phases. The Assessment Tool was received positively by the expert reviewers (i.e., academics, policy makers, and practitioners) and revealed generally high interrater reliability. The Workplace Physical Activity Assessment Tool can be used to plan, implement, and evaluate physical activity programs in the workplace. Recommendations for future research are identified.

Alberta↗

Physical activity programs and behavior counseling in older adult populations.

Physical activity offers one of the greatest opportunities for people to extend years of active independent life and reduce functional limitations. The purpose of this paper is to identify key practices for promoting physical activity in older adults, with a focus on older adults with chronic disease or low fitness and those with low levels of physical activity. Key practices identified in promotion activity in older adults include: 1) A multidimensional activity program that includes endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility training is optimal for health and functional benefits; 2) Principles of behavior change, including: social support, self-efficacy, active choices, health contracts, assurances of safety, and positive reinforcement enhance adherence; 3) Management of risk by beginning at low intensity but gradually increasing to moderate physical activity, which has a better risk-to-benefit ratio and should be the goal for older adults; 4) An emergency procedure plan is prudent for community based programs; and 5) Monitoring aerobic intensity is important for progression and for motivation. Selected content review of physical activity programming from major organizations and institutions are provided. Regular participation in physical activity is one of the most effective ways for older adults, including those with disabilities, to help prevent chronic disease, promote independence, and increase quality of life in old age.

Aged↗