Ethanolic Extract of Alternanthera Sessilis: A Potential Therapeutic Agent for Behavioral Improvements in Reserpine-Induced Parkinsonian Rats

The present study evaluated the potential of an ethanol extract from Alternanthera sessilis to alleviate reserpine-induced Parkinson's disease (PD) like behavioural manifestations in rats. The animals were grouped into five: a control group, a group receiving only reserpine, a group treated with levodopa and carbidopa, and two groups given different doses of the Alternanthera sessilis extract. Reserpine was used to mimic PD symptoms, while the extract was administered orally at two different concentrations. The behavioral tests were conducted to assess locomotor activity, grip strength, catalepsy, and rearing activity. Locomotor activity was measured using an actophotometer, where interruptions in light beams caused by the rates were recorded over a 10-minute period. Grip strength was evaluated using a rotarod apparatus, measuring the time taken for rats to fall off individual rods. Catalepsy was assessed through a bar test, measuring the time for rats to descend from a horizontal bar to the base. Rearing activity was observed in a round open field arena, with parameters including the occurrence rate of rearing, general movements score, and duration spent in the center of the arena. The results revealed administration of reserpine led to a decrease in body weight, locomotor activity, muscle coordination, catalepsy score, rearing activity, and grip strength compared to the control group. Conversely, treatment with levodopa and carbidopa resulted in increased values for these parameters. Importantly, administration of Alternanthera sessilis extract showed a dose-dependent reversal of the effects induced by reserpine, with significant increases observed in body weight, locomotor activity, muscle coordination, rearing activity, general movement, and grip strength, indicating its potential therapeutic effects. In conclusion, the present study results suggest that the extract from the Alternanthera sessilis plant might protect brain cells and improve symptoms of Parkinson's disease. However, more research is needed to understand how it works and if it can be used safely and effectively clinical trails.

The Relationship Between Smartphone Usage Duration with Hand Grip, Pinch Grip Strength and It’s Impact on NCS Motor Parameters of Median Nerve in Young Population – An Observational Study

Background: There seems to be a lack of literature regarding the association between handgrip strength and nerve conduction parameters of the median nerve among smartphone users in the young population. There is a need to investigate the inter-relation of grip strength with smartphone usage and motor parameters of the median nerve by carrying out a nerve conduction study.Aims: The study aims to find out the correlation between hand-grip and pinch-grip strength on nerve conduction study motor parameters among smartphone users.Methods and Material: 112 young adult participants were included. Hang grip strength and pinch grip strength were assessed for both hands and after three trials, the average was calculated. The average screen time of their smartphones over the past week was noted, and simultaneously, the motor nerve conduction study parameter of the median nerve was performed.Statistical analysis: Pearson’s correlation was applied to find out the correlation between the component of the handgrip, pinch grip, and motor nerve conduction velocity of the median nerve. The p-value of < 0.001 was considered statistically significant.Results: The study obtained a significant negative correlation between smartphone usage with amplitude and nerve conduction velocity and a significant positive correlation with the latency of the median nerve.Conclusions: The study concluded that smartphone usage reduces the hand grip and pinch grip strength and significantly affects the motor parameters of the median nerve.

Correlation between grip strength promotion and improvement of body composition and metabolic disorders in health examination population of different genders / 中华健康管理学杂志

Objective:To explore the correlation between grip strength promotion and improvement of body composition and metabolic disorders in health examination population of different genders.Methods:In this retrospective cohort study, clinical data of 600 people who received health examination and grip strength check-up two times or more in the Medical Examination Center of Peking University Third Hospital from January 2018 to November 2022 were selected. The general data, physical examination, biochemical parameters, body composition and grip strength results were collected. After the first physical examination, the grip strength test was conducted, appropriate resistance strength exercises were given based on individual evaluation results. A health lecture was held, and the information related to health exercise was pushed through WeChat official account every week. The grip strength test was completed at the same time at the second physical examination, and the difference between the two test results was calculated before and after the second physical examination. The generalized estimation equation was used to analyze the correlation between the improvement of grip strength and the improvement of body composition and metabolic disorders in different gender health-check population.Results:In man and women, the body mass index [(25.50±3.66) vs (25.33±3.74) kg/m 2, (22.41±3.55) vs (22.25±3.46) kg/m 2] and grip strength [(42.71±7.30) vs (41.77±7.36) kg, (25.28±5.30) vs (23.98±4.87) kg] at the second health check-up were all significantly higher than those at the first time, and the diastolic blood pressure [(72.79±10.30) vs (74.47±9.85) mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa), (66.93±8.90) vs (68.92±9.42) mmHg] and serum homocysteine [(17.96±14.09) vs (19.27±14.26) μmol/L, (9.47±3.91) vs (10.26±3.90) μmol/L] were all significantly lower than those at the first time (all P<0.05). Among man, the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) at the second physical examination was significantly lower than that at the first time [(2.94±0.78) vs (3.00±0.69) mmol/L] (all P<0.05). Among women, the systolic blood pressure and uric acid at the second health check-up were both significantly lower than those at the first time [(109.34±12.85) vs (110.54±12.32) mmHg, (276.91±62.46) vs (287.16±68.78) μmol/L], and the waist-hip ratio was significant higher (85.8%±5.1% vs 85.4%±5.0%) (all P<0.05). In males, the decreased aspartate aminotransferase ( OR=0.932, 95% CI: 0.888-0.978) and the increased skeletal muscle index ( OR=75.370, 95% CI: 29.012-195.806) were both positively correlated with the elevation of grip strength (all P<0.05); and in females, the decreased homocysteine ( OR=0.876, 95% CI: 0.782-0.982) and glycosylated hemoglobin ( OR=0.423, 95% CI: 0.222-0.805) and increased skeletal muscle index ( OR=22.918, 95% CI: 11.114-47.256) were all positively correlated with the elevation of grip strength (all P<0.05). Conclusion:There is a positive correlation between the improvement of grip strength and the improvement trend of body composition and metabolic disorders in in health examination population of different genders.

Physical fitness and characteristics of cognitive function among people aged 55 to 75 years with high and low risk of dementia in communities in Beijing / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo analyze the risk factors of dementia among healthy elderly individuals in the middle of their lives. MethodsA total of 175 participants aged 55 to 75 from two communities in Beijing were included from July, 2021 to April, 2023. Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging, and Incidence of Dementia (CAIDE) related risk factors and other demographic data were collected. According to the CAIDE assessment, participants with scores ≥ 9 were as high-risk group, and those with scores < 9 were as low-risk group. They were evaluated with Stroop Color Word Test (SCWT), two elements 1-back task paradigm and the revised Trail Making Test (TMT); measured the grip strength, 30 s forearm flexion tests and five sit-to-stand tests; the average step speed and step length of a 10-meter walk were recorded. ResultsThe average total score of CAIDE was 9.86 in the high-risk group, and was 4.95 in the low-risk group. There was no difference in age between two groups (P = 0.188). There were differences in the proportion of participants of male, less than seven years' education, systolic blood pressure > 140 mmHg, cholesterol > 6.5 mmol/L, body mass index > 30 kg/m2, and lack of physical activity between two groups (χ2 > 3.116, P < 0.05). The grip strength (t = -4.174), walking speed (t = -2.414), SCWT accuracy (Z = -2.684) were all worse in the high-risk group than in the low-risk group (P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that walking speed (OR = 25.483), grip strength (OR = 1.133) and SCWT accuracy (OR = 37.430) were independent influencing factors of dementia (P < 0.05). ConclusionWeaker grip strength, slower gait speed and worse inhibitory control might be independent influencing factors of dementia.

The relationship between fluoride exposure, basal metabolic rate, body fat percentage, and grip strength among adults in rural areas with fluorosis of China / 中华地方病学杂志

Objective:To study the relationship between adult fluoride exposure and grip strength in rural areas of China with fluorosis, as well as the roles of basal metabolic rate (BMR) and body fat percentage (BFP) in the association between fluoride exposure and grip strength.Methods:From April to May 2017, a cluster sampling method was used to conduct a questionnaire survey, physical examination, and biological sample collection on residents aged 18 - 60 in Tongxu County, Kaifeng City, Henan Province (epidemic areas of drinking-water-borne fluorosis). A total of 1 168 subjects were included in the study, including 427 males and 741 females. The fluoride ion selective electrode method and the picric acid method were used to determine the concentrations of urine fluoride and urine creatinine, and the adjusted urine fluoride concentration (CUF) was calculated. BMR and BFP were measured by a bioelectrical impendence method, and the grip strength was measured by a Jamar grip dynamometer. The relationship between CUF, BMR, BFP and grip strength were analyzed using a generalized linear model regression. The mediation effect model was used to assess the mediating effect of BMR and BFP on the association between CUF and grip strength.Results:Female grip strength decreased by 0.28 kg ( P = 0.043) for every 1.00 mg/L increment in CUF. No similar association was found between the two in males ( P = 0.744). Regardless of gender stratification, BMR was positively correlated with grip strength ( P < 0.001). For every 1.00% increase in BFP, female grip strength decreased by 0.18 kg ( P = 0.043). The mediation effect model analysis results showed that the mediation effect ratios of BMR and BFP in the association between CUF and grip strength in female were 65.1% ( P < 0.001) and 8.4% ( P = 0.111), respectively. Conclusion:Fluoride exposure is associated with changes in female grip strength, and BMR changes play a partial mediating role in the association between fluoride exposure and female grip strength.

Correlation with nutritional status and risk factors of depressed mood in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis / 中华临床营养杂志

Objective:To evaluate the nutritional status of patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis and explore the correlation with malnutrition and the risk factors of depressed mood.Methods:190 cirrhotic patients admitted to the Department of Gastroenterology of the First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University from June to September 2023 were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eligible patients were divided into subgroups based on the presence or absence of malnutrition as determined by subjective global assessment (SGA). The Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression (CES-D) scale was used to assess patients' propensity for depressed mood. Relevant clinical data were also collected and analyzed.Results:A total of 185 patients were included, of which 126 were in the non-malnutrition group and 59 malnutrition group. There were significant between-group differences in terms of CES-D results, age, body mass index, platelets, D-dimer, serum sodium, third lumbar skeletal muscle index, grip strength, triceps skinfold thickness, and upper arm muscle circumference (all P<0.05). Correlation analysis showed that grip strength, triceps skinfold thickness, upper arm muscle circumference, serum sodium, and depressed mood tendency status were correlated with the development of cirrhotic malnutrition ( P<0.05). The diagnostic model for malnutrition in cirrhosis using these five indicators showed the area under the curve of 81.9%. Conclusions:Depression is closely related to the development of malnutrition in patients with liver cirrhosis. Independent risk factors for malnutrition in cirrhosis include serum sodium≤135 mmol/L, grip strength, triceps skinfold thickness, lower-than-normal upper arm circumference , and the tendency of depression , which demonstrate the combined contribution to the diagnosis of malnutrition in cirrhosis.

Dynapenia and sarcopenia: association with the diagnosis, duration and complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus in ELSA-Brasil / Dinapenia e sarcopenia: associação com o diagnóstico, duração e complicações de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 no ELSA-Brasil / Dinapenia y sarcopenia: asociación con el diagnóstico, duración y complicaciones de la diabetes mellitus tipo 2 en ELSA-Brasil

Abstract: Sarcopenia (the loss of muscle mass, strength and skeletal muscle function) increases mortality and the risk of hospitalization in the older population. Although it is known that older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have a higher risk of dynapenia and sarcopenia, few studies have investigated these conditions in middle-aged populations. The objective of this study was to investigate whether T2DM, its duration, the presence of albuminuria, and glycemic control are associated with sarcopenia and its components in adults. The cross-sectional analysis was based on data from visit 2 of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (2012-2014). The 2018 European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People criteria were used to define dynapenia, low appendicular muscle mass (LAMM), and sarcopenia (absent/probable/confirmed). The explanatory variables were: T2DM; duration of T2DM; T2DM according to the presence of albuminuria; and glycemic control (HbA1C < 7%) among people with T2DM. A total of 12,132 participants (mean age = 55.5, SD: 8.9 years) were included. The odds ratio for LAMM was greater among those with T2DM, T2DM duration from 5 to 10 years, and T2DM without albuminuria. Chances of dynapenia were higher among those with T2DM, T2DM duration > 10 years, and T2DM with and without albuminuria. The variables T2DM, T2DM ≥ 10 years, and T2DM with albuminuria increased the odds of probable sarcopenia, and T2DM duration from 5 to 10 years increased the odds of confirmed sarcopenia. The results support the importance of frequently monitoring the musculoskeletal mass and strength of individuals with T2DM to prevent sarcopenia and related outcomes.

Resumo: A sarcopenia (perda de massa muscular, força e função muscular esquelética) aumenta a mortalidade e o risco de hospitalização em idosos. Idosos com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DMT2) apresentam risco elevado de desenvolver dinapenia e sarcopenia, mas poucos estudos investigaram populações de meia-idade. O objetivo foi investigar se DMT2, sua duração, a presença de albuminúria e o controle glicêmico estão associados à sarcopenia e seus componentes em adultos. Análise transversal baseada nos dados da segunda visita do Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto (2012-2014). Os critérios do European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People [Grupo de Trabalho Europeu sobre Sarcopenia em Pessoas Idosas] de 2018 foram usados para definir dinapenia, baixa massa muscular apendicular e sarcopenia (ausente/provável/confirmada). As variáveis explicativas foram: DMT2; duração do DMT2; DMT2 de acordo com a presença de albuminúria; e controle glicêmico (HbA1c < 7%) entre pessoas com DMT2. Foram incluídos 12.132 participantes (idade média de 55,5; DP: 8,9 anos). A razão de chances para baixa massa muscular apendicular foi maior entre pessoas com DMT2, duração do DMT2 entre 5 e 10 anos e DMT2 sem albuminúria. As chances de dinapenia foram maiores entre pessoas com DMT2, duração do DMT2 > 10 anos e DMT2 com e sem albuminúria. DMT2, DMT2 ≥ 10 anos e DMT2 com albuminúria aumentaram as chances de sarcopenia provável e duração do DMT2 entre 5 e 10 anos aumentaram as chances de sarcopenia confirmada. Os resultados reforçam a importância do monitoramento frequente da massa e da força muscular em indivíduos com DMT2 para prevenir a sarcopenia e desfechos relacionados.

Resumen: La sarcopenia (pérdida de masa muscular, fuerza y función muscular esquelética) aumenta la mortalidad y el riesgo de hospitalización en ancianos. Los ancianos con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DMT2) presentan un mayor riesgo de sufrir dinapenia y sarcopenia, pero pocos estudios han investigado poblaciones de mediana edad. El objetivo fue investigar si la DMT2, su duración, la presencia de albuminuria y el control glucémico están asociados con la sarcopenia y sus componentes en adultos. Análisis transversal basado en los datos de la visita 2 del Estudio Longitudinal de Salud del Adulto en Brasil (2012-2014). Se utilizaron los criterios del European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People [Grupo de Trabajo Europeo sobre Sarcopenia en Personas Mayores] del 2018 para definir dinapenia, baja masa muscular apendicular y sarcopenia (ausente/probable/confirmada). Las variables explicativas fueron las siguientes: DMT2; duración de la DMT2; DMT2 según la presencia de albuminuria; y control glucémico (HbA1c < 7%) entre personas con DMT2. Se incluyeron 12.132 participantes (edad media = 55,5, DE: 8,9 años). La razón de probabilidades de masa muscular apendicular baja fue mayor entre personas con DMT2, duración de la DMT2 entre 5 y 10 años y DMT2 sin albuminuria. Las probabilidades de dinapenia fueron mayores entre las personas con DMT2, duración de la DMT2 > 10 años y DMT2 con y sin albuminuria. Las condiciones de DMT2, DMT2 ≥ 10 años y DMT2 con albuminuria aumentaron las probabilidades de sarcopenia probable y la duración de la DMT2 entre 5 y 10 años las probabilidades de sarcopenia confirmada. Los resultados refuerzan la importancia del monitoreo frecuente de la masa y de la fuerza musculoesquelética en individuos con DMT2 para prevenir la sarcopenia y los desenlaces relacionados.

Estado nutricional, força muscular e capacidade funcional em portadores de mieloma múltiplo / Nutritional status, muscle strength and functional capacity in patients with multiple myeloma

O mieloma múltiplo é uma neoplasia maligna caracterizada pela proliferação clonal de plasmócitos na medula óssea. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as possíveis associações entre o estado nutricional, força muscular e capacidade funcional de pacientes ambulatoriais portadores de mieloma múltiplo. Trata-se de estudo transversal realizado em amostra não probabilística de pacientes com mieloma múltiplo atendidos no Hospital das Clínicas, em Goiânia. Os dados foram coletados entre agosto e dezembro de 2015, utilizando-se de entrevistas e informações dos prontuários. O estado nutricional foi avaliado aplicando-se a Avaliação Subjetiva Global Produzida pelo Próprio Paciente; a força muscular medida por meio da Força do Aperto de Mão e a capacidade funcional, pela Escala de Performance de Karnofsky. O estudo foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética e Pesquisa do referido hospital. Foram avaliados 52 pacientes, em que 48,1% estavam desnutridos, 30,8% apresentavam baixa força muscular e 73,1%, comprometimento da capacidade funcional. A força muscular e a capacidade funcional foram menores nos desnutridos. Observou-se que aqueles que utilizavam corticoides apresentaram 18% menos chance de se tornarem desnutridos (OR=0,18; IC=0,05-0,62; p=0,011) porém, é importante considerar as possíveis causas de viés; por outro lado, os pacientes com baixa força muscular ou faziam quimioterapia apresentaram, aproximadamente, quatro vezes mais chances de desnutrição, respectivamente (OR=3,46; IC=0,99-12,08; p=0,047) (OR=3,64; IC=1,13-11,69; p=0,027). Concluiu-se que a desnutrição é comum nos pacientes portadores de mieloma múltiplo, indicando a necessidade premente de intervenção nutricional apropriada e precoce.

Multiple myeloma is a malignant neoplasm characterized by the clonal proliferation of plasma cells in the bone marrow. The objective of this study was to evaluate possible associations between nutritional status, muscle strength and functional capacity of outpatients with multiple myeloma. This is a cross-sectional study carried out on a non-probabilistic sample of patients with multiple myeloma treated at Hospital das Clínicas, in Goiânia. Data were collected between August and December 2015, using interviews and information from medical records. Nutritional status was assessed using the Patient Generated Subjective Global Assessment; muscular strength measured using Hand Grip Strength and functional capacity, using the Karnofsky Performance Scale. The study was approved by the Ethics and Research Committee of that hospital. 52 patients were evaluated, of which 48.1% were malnourished, 30.8% had low muscle strength and 73.1% had impaired functional capacity. Muscle strength and functional capacity were lower in malnourished individuals. It was observed that those who used corticosteroids were 18% less likely to become malnourished (OR=0.18; CI=0.05-0.62; p=0.011), however, it is important to consider the possible causes of bias; on the other hand, patients with low muscle strength or undergoing chemotherapy were approximately four times more likely to be malnourished, respectively (OR=3.46; CI=0.99-12.08; p=0.047) (OR=3.64; CI=1.13-11.69; p=0.027). It was concluded that malnutrition is common in patients with multiple myeloma, indicating the pressing need for appropriate and early nutritional intervention.

Habitual physical activity and sedentary behavior as predictors of dynapenia in older adults: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Dynapenia is a risk factor of mortality. Therefore, the development of low-cost and easy-to-apply tools is essential to optimize the health surveillance actions of older people. OBJECTIVES: To compare the time spent on habitual physical activity (HPA) and sedentary behavior (SB) among dynapenic and non-dynapenic older adults and ascertain the predictive ability of these behaviors on outcome. DESIGN AND SETTING: A cross-sectional population epidemiological survey was conducted involving 208 older adults. METHODS: HPA and SB were quantified using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and dynapenia was identified by handgrip strength (women: 18.37 kgf; men: 26.75 kgf). RESULTS: The prevalence was 24.50%. In both sexes, dynapenic individuals reported a HPA median time of 70.00 minutes/week (min/wk), while non-dynapenic women and men reported HPA median times of 240.00 and 280.00 min/wk, respectively (P < 0.05). For SB among dynapenic individuals, a median of 388.75 min/day was observed in women and 428.57 min/d in men. In contrast, non-dynapenic women and men had 291.42 and 274.28 min/day in SB (P < 0.05), respectively. The best cutoff HPA to discriminate the outcome was 150.00 min/wk in women (sensitivity: 73.30%; specificity: 60.67%) and 140.00 min/wk in men (sensitivity, 71.43%; specificity, 61.54%). The best cutoff SB was 381.43 min/day in women (sensitivity, 53.30%; specificity, 84.80%) and 351.43 min/day in men (sensitivity, 71.43%; specificity, 73.85%). CONCLUSION: Older individuals with dynapenia spent less time on HPA and more time in SB. Furthermore, HPA was found to be a better discriminator of dynapenic individuals, and SB better discriminated non-dynapenic individuals.

Evaluation of the Association Between Carrying Angle, Hand Grip Strength, Lateral Pinch Strength, and Hand Functional Index in Nursing Students / Evaluación de la Asociación entre el Ángulo de Carga, la Fuerza de Agarre de la Mano, la Fuerza de Pellizco Lateral y el Índice Funcional de la Mano en Estudiantes de Enfermería

SUMMARY: Health professionals especially nurses have ongoing contact with patients and they may have a high incidence of musculoskeletal problems. For this reason, grip strength and carrying angle are important parameters for all health professionals to succeed in their job and avoid injuries. It was aimed to determine the effects of the hand grip, and pinch strength, carrying angle of dominant, and non-dominant hands as well as the association of the hand functional index with morphometric measurements in 193 nursing students. The means of the carrying angle of dominant and non-dominant sides were 169.11±4.21° and 168.16±4.30°, respectively. The means of the dominant and, non-dominant sides of hand grip strength were 45.99±11.24 kg and 45.89±11.34 kg, respectively. The lateral pinch strength means were measured as 19.55±3.75 kg and 19.31±3.45 kg, respectively. This paper's findings may be important for some experts such as anatomists, clinicians, surgeons, forensic scientists, anthropologists, and nurses- healthcare professionals keep in touch with patients. Also, we believe that appropriate and effective knowledge of carrying angle, hand grip and lateral pinch strength has created an opportunity to research in terms of reducing work-related risk factors.

Los profesionales de la salud, especialmente las enfermeras, se mantienen en contacto con los pacientes y pueden tener una alta incidencia de problemas musculo-esqueléticos. En consecuencia, la fuerza de agarre y el ángulo de carga son parámetros importantes para que todos los profesionales de la salud tengan éxito en su trabajo y eviten las lesiones. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar los efectos de la fuerza de prensión y pinzamiento de la mano, el ángulo de carga de las manos dominantes y no dominantes, así como la asociación del índice funcional de la mano con medidas morfométricas en 193 estudiantes de enfermería. Las medias del ángulo de carga de los lados dominante y no dominante fueron 169,11±4,21° y 168,16±4,30°, respectivamente. Las medias de los lados dominante y no dominante de la fuerza de prensión manual fueron 45,99 ± 11,24 kg y 45,89 ± 11,34 kg, respectivamente. La media de la fuerza de pellizco lateral se midió como 19,55 ± 3,75 kg y 19,31 ± 3,45 kg, respectivamente. Los hallazgos de este artículo pueden ser importantes para algunos expertos, como anatomistas, médicos clínicos, cirujanos, científicos forenses, antropólogos y enfermeras y profesionales de la salud que se mantienen en contacto con los pacientes. Además, creemos que el conocimiento apropiado y efectivo del ángulo de carga, el agarre de la mano y la fuerza de pellizco lateral ha creado una oportunidad para investigar en términos de reducción de los factores de riesgo relacionados con el trabajo.

Correlation of body mass index with handgrip strength and blood pressure indices among young adults

Objectives: Hand grip strength (HGS) is an important quantitative measure to evaluate the overall muscle strength of an individual. It is affected by factors such as age, sex, body mass index (BMI) and cardiovascular risk factors such as obesity and hypertension. This study aims to find out the correlation of BMI with HGS and blood pressure indices among young adults. Materials and Methods: Three hundred and eighty-two medical students between the age group of 18–20 years with no history of systemic illness, musculoskeletal disorder, hand pain or deformity were selected. Informed consent was obtained. Biodata and anthropometric measurements were documented in a proforma. HGS and endurance of the dominant hand were measured using a hand-held dynamometer. Blood pressure was recorded using a mercury sphygmomanometer. Data on BMI was sub grouped into underweight, normal weight, overweight and obese participants to compare the HGS among them. Results: There was a statistically significant negative correlation between BMI and HGS (r = ?0.513; P < 0.01), BMI and grip strength ratio (r = ?0.750; P < 0.01), and between BMI and handgrip endurance (r = ?0.359; P < 0.01). Statistically significant decrease in HGS was found among underweight (29.36 ± 7.01), overweight (26.18 ± 5.45) and obese participants (20.48 ± 3.12) with Kruskal–Wallis value ?2 = 14.231. Furthermore, a statistically significant positive correlation was found between BMI and systolic blood pressure (r = 0.603; P < 0.01), BMI and diastolic blood pressure (r = 0.514; P < 0.01), BMI and pulse pressure (r = 0.228; P < 0.01) and between BMI and mean arterial pressure (r = 0.572; P < 0.01). Conclusion: BMI was found to be negatively correlated with HGS and positively correlated with blood pressure indices. This can influence the compatibility of medical students with the physical and emotional stress of course. Determinants such as grip span, hand span, skeletal muscle bulk, and arm and calf muscle circumference are to be considered for further research to improve the endurance of young adults.

Variations in sympathovagal balance, psychogalvanic reflex and isometric grip force in females with polycystic ovarian syndrome- an exploratory study

Background: Poly-cystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine ailment and recently emerging cause of infertility amongst reproductive females. The disease is associated with multifactorial etiologies. Autonomic dysfunction is cause or result of this disorder is yet a paradox. Various autonomic function tests can be done to reveal this dilemma. Heart rate variability is pivotal amongst these and assesses trivial variations between two heart beats and stands as a marker of cardiac risk. Sympathetic skin response checks integrity of sympathetic reflex tract. Isometric grip force relates contracting force and electromyography with a person’s heart rate during exercise. As there is meagre published evidence on autonomic function testing in central Indian women with PCOS, this study was undertaken on the PCOS patients and their data was compared with regularly menstruating healthy controls.Methods: A cross sectional study was performed on 35 healthy controls and 35 PCOS diagnosed patients of age range 18 to 42 years short-term HRV was recorded using ECG and RR interval using power lab system. Thereafter SSR was obtained using bio amplifier by giving standard acoustic stimuli. The patients were then asked to perform isometric grip force exercise using grip force transducer to obtain various related parameters.Results: The mean age group of controls was 22.62±2.15 years and that of among cases was 23.29±4.26 years. Compared to healthy controls PCOS patients had higher waist circumference, lower HF Norm whereas higher VLF norm and LF/HF ratio, delayed SSR latency while hand grip strength was significantly higher in the control group as compared to the PCOS patients. LF/HF ratio, mean HR, waist circumference and SSR latency were positively correlated to each other and negatively correlated to mean hand grip strength.Conclusions: PCOS females have altered adrenergic status as compared to normal women. Various autonomic function tests like HRV, SSR and hand grip strength exercise can be useful in evaluating these patients as the disease exposes them to various co morbid risk factors.

Correlação entre resistência de preensão manual e resistência muscular escapular em indivíduos assintomáticos / Correlation between hand grip endurance and scapular muscle endurance in asymptomatic individuals

INTRODUÇÃO: A atividade de preensão é uma ação diária essencial em casa e no local de trabalho, onde muitas vezes é necessário levantar e segurar cargas com uma preensão relativamente estática usando contração isométrica. A força e resistência muscular no aspecto proximal das extremidades superiores influenciam na função da mão, e indivíduos com força e resistência reduzidas são mais propensos a desenvolver distúrbios musculoesqueléticos relacionados ao trabalho. Uma boa resistência de preensão pode ser influenciada pela estabilização fornecida pelos músculos do ombro. Este estudo tem como objetivo determinar a extensão da correlação entre resistência de preensão manual e resistência muscular da escápula em jovens assintomáticos. MÉTODO: O tamanho da amostra para este estudo foi n = 62, com base em estudos anteriores. Indivíduos saudáveis, com idade entre 18 e 25 anos, de ambos os sexos, foram incluídos. Uma avaliação objetiva da resistência da preensão foi realizada usando um dinamômetro manual hidráulico, e a resistência escapular foi avaliada usando o teste muscular escapular. RESULTADOS: A análise de dados foi realizada usando o SPSS versão 20. Houve correlações positivas significativas entre as medidas de resistência escapular e a resistência de preensão palmar para ambos os lados (teste de correlação de Pearson, r = 0,612 (p < 0,001) e r = 0,524 (p < 0,001), respectivamente, para resistência de preensão da mão não dominante e dominante). CONSIDERAÇÕES FINAIS: Os achados preliminares deste estudo sustentam que a resistência do músculo escapular exibe uma relação com a resistência da preensão palmar, sugerindo que o treinamento de resistência escapular pode ser um complemento eficaz no processo de reabilitação das funções da extremidade superior.

INTRODUCTION: Gripping activity is an essential daily activity at home and at the workplace, where lifting and holding loads with a relatively static grip using isometric contraction is often required. Muscle strength and endurance in the proximal aspect of the upper extremities influence hand function, and individuals with reduced strength and endurance are more prone to developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Good grip endurance might be influenced by the stabilization provided by shoulder muscles. This study aims to determine the correlation between hand grip endurance and scapula muscle endurance among young asymptomatic individuals. METHOD: The sample size for this study is n = 62, based on previous studies. Healthy individuals of both genders, aged between 18 and 25 years, were included. An objective assessment of grip endurance was performed using a hydraulic hand dynamometer, while scapular endurance was evaluated using the scapular muscle test. RESULTS: Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 20. There were significant positive correlations between scapular endurance measures and the hand grip endurance on both sides (Pearson correlation test, r = 0.612 (p < 0.001) and r = 0.524 (p < 0.001), respectively, for non-dominant and dominant hand grip endurance). FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: The preliminary findings of this study support the notion that scapular muscle endurance is related to hand grip endurance, suggesting that scapular endurance training may be an effective adjunct in the rehabilitation process for upper extremity functions.

Effect of number of college baseball pitching on movement, performance, physical strength, physiological, and psychological functions of pitchers / 体力科学

This study aimed to examine the effects of college baseball pitching on movement, performance, physical strength, and physiological and psychological functions of pitchers. The participants were 10 right-handed male pitchers from the University baseball team. The number of pitches were 15 per inning and 135 per nine innings. Ball speed and accuracy were measured for each pitching. The grip strength, back muscle strength, and standing long jump were measured before and after all pitches. Blood lactate levels were measured before pitching, at the end of the 5th and 7th innings, and at 3rd, 6th, and 9th minutes after pitching. The participant’s heart rate and subjective exercise intensity were measured at the beginning and end of each inning using the Borg scale measurement. Five high-speed cameras were used to capture the pitching motions. The displacement of the center of gravity, lower and upper limb joint angles, and the speed of each segment were calculated. The baseball speed and accuracy did not change with the increased number of pitches. However, the grip strength decreased. Although blood lactate and heart rate were not altered, subjective exercise intensity was increased. The lower limb kinematics remained unchanged; however, elbow height was reduced in the upper limb. These results suggest that highly competitive pitchers experience subjective fatigue with the increased number of pitches, however, they maintain pitch performance, speed, and accuracy without altering whole-body physiology and lower-body function and form.

Frailty prevalence and its associations in a subacute geriatric ward in Singapore

INTRODUCTION@#Our aim was to study the prevalence of frailty and its associated factors in a subacute geriatric ward.@*METHODS@#This was a cross-sectional study of 167 participants between June 2018 and June 2019. Baseline demographics and participants' Mini Nutritional Assessment, Geriatric Depression Scale, Mini Mental State Examination, Charlson's Comorbidity Index and LACE index scores were obtained. Functional measurements such as modified Barthel's Index scores and hand grip strength (HGS) were taken. Frailty was assessed using the Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) and the FRAIL scale. Data on history of healthcare utilisation, medications, length of stay, selected blood investigations and presence of geriatric syndromes were also collected.@*RESULTS@#The prevalence of pre-frailty (CFS 4) and frailty (CFS ≥ 5) was 16.2% and 63.4%, respectively. There were significant associations between CFS and age (pre-frail vs. non-frail: odds ratio [OR] 1.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04-1.25, P = 0.006; frail vs. non-frail: OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.01-1.15, P = 0.021), HGS at discharge (frail vs. non-frail: OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.82-0.99, P = 0.025), serum albumin (frail vs. non-frail: OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.82-0.99, P = 0.035) and the presence of urinary incontinence (frail vs. non-frail: OR 3.03, 95% CI 1.19-7.77, P = 0.021).@*CONCLUSION@#Frailty is highly prevalent in the subacute geriatric setting and has many associated factors. In this study, independent factors associated with frailty were age, HGS at discharge, serum albumin and urinary incontinence. This has implications for future resource allocation for frail older inpatients and may help direct further research to study the effectiveness of frailty-targeted interventions.

Low Grip Strength and Increased Mortality Hazard among Middle-Aged and Older Chinese Adults with Chronic Diseases / 生物医学与环境科学（英文）

OBJECTIVE@#This study aims to evaluate the association between lower grip strength and mortality hazard.@*METHODS@#We selected 10,280 adults aged 45 to 96 years old from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study and used multivariate Cox proportional hazard models to assess the association of grip strength with mortality hazard. In addition, we explored the possibility of a nonlinear relationship using a 4-knot restricted spline regression.@*RESULTS@#We found that elevated grip strength was associated with lower mortality up to a certain threshold. The baseline quartile values of grip strength were 30, 37, and 44 kg for males and 25, 30, and 35 kg for females. After adjusting for confounders, with category 1 as the reference group, the adjusted HRs were 0.58 (0.42-0.79) in males and 0.70 (0.48-0.99) in females (category 4). We also found a linear association between grip strength values and all-cause death risk (males, P = 0.274; females, P = 0.883) using restricted spline regression. For males with a grip strength < 37 kg and females with a grip strength < 30 kg, grip strength and death were negatively associated.@*CONCLUSION@#Grip strength below a sex-specific threshold is inversely associated with mortality hazard among middle-aged and older Chinese adults with chronic diseases.

Reallocation of time spent on sedentary behavior by time spent on physical activity reduces dynapenia in older adults: a prospective cohort study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Dynapenia is characterized by mobility limitations in the older population when combined with aggravating behavioral factors that can increase the risk of morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the hypothetical effects of reallocation of time spent on sedentary behavior (SB), moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and sleep on dynapenia in older adults. DESIGN AND SETTING: A prospective cohort study using exploratory surveys in Alcobaça City, Bahia State, Brazil. METHODS: In total, 176 older adults (≥ 60 years) of both sexes participated in this study. Dynapenia was assessed using the handgrip strength test with cutoff points of < 27 kg for men and < 16 kg for women. MVPA and SB were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and sleep was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. RESULTS: Effects on reallocation were found for the shortest times, such as 10 minutes (odds ratio (OR) 0.92; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.85-0.99); substituting MVPA with SB increased the chances of dynapenia by 58.0% (95% CI: 1.01-2.49). Analyzing the substitution of 60 minutes/day of SB with 60 minutes/day of MVPA revealed a protective effect, with a lower OR for dynapenia of 37.0% (OR 0.63; 95% CI: 0.40-0.99). The reallocation of sleep time did not significantly reduce dynapenia. CONCLUSIONS: Substituting the time spent sitting with the same amount of time spent on MVPA can reduce dynapenia, and a longer reallocation time confers greater health benefits in older adults.

Estado nutricional, fuerza de prensión manual y condición funcional en adultos mayores institucionalizados

Los cambios propios de la edad podrían indirectamente afectar al estado nutricional en los adultos mayores, siendo la dependencia funcional un episodio desalentador. El objetivo de la investigación fue evaluar el estado nutricional, el nivel de prensión manual y la condición funcional en adultos mayores institucionalizados en el Centro Especializado para adultos mayores dependiente del Instituto de Previsión Social de la ciudad de San Bernardino en el periodo septiembre y octubre del 2018. Para ello se diseñó un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal con datos primarios, se incluyeron a adultos mayores albergados en el Centro Especializado para adultos mayores de San Bernardino. Se midieron datos demográficos, estado nutricional por MNA, fuerza de prensión manual por dinamometría y condición funcional a través de la EFAM. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva. El trabajo fue presentado al Comité de ética de la Facultad de Ciencias Médicas de la Universidad Nacional de Asunción. Se analizaron datos de 26 adultos mayores, cuya edad media fue 76±5 años. El 61,5% eran mujeres, prevaleció un estado nutricional normal en el 84,6%, y se encontró una mayor tendencia a presentar muy mala fuerza de prensión manual en mujeres, 22,2%. Mayor frecuencia de adultos mayores sin riesgo de dependencia, 80,8%. Hombres con mayor dependencia que las mujeres, 60%. En la muestra de estudio se observó estado nutricional normal, y fuerza de prensión muy mala en mujeres. Los adultos mayores del Centro Especializado para adultos mayores del Instituto de Previsión Social presentan condición funcional autovalente sin riesgo.

Age-specific changes could indirectly affect nutritional status in older adults, with functional dependence being a discouraging episode. To evaluate the nutritional status, the level of manual grasping and the functional condition in institutionalized older adults in the Specialized Center for the elderly dependent on the Social Pressure Institute from the city of San Bernardino in the period of September to October, 2018. Transversal descriptive study with primary data, in which older adults housed in the Specialized Center for Older Adults of San Bernardino were included. Demographic data, nutritional status by MNA, hand grip strength by dynamometry and functional condition through EFAM were measured. Descriptive statistics was used. The work was presented to the Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Medical Sciences of the National University of Asunción. Data from 26 older adults were analyzed, the average age was 76±5 years, and 61.5% were women. A normal nutritional status prevailed in 84.6%, there was a greater tendency to present very bad hand grip strength in women, 22.2% and greater frequency of older adults without risk of dependence, 80.8%. Men had greater dependence than women, 60%. In the study, a normal nutritional status was observed in the sample as well as a very bad grip strength in women. Older adults of the Specialized Center for the elderly of the Social Security Institute present a self-sustaining functional condition without risk.

Effect of task-oriented training on hand dexterity, grip strength, and function among institutionalized geriatric population

Background: The hand is the most active and important part of the upper extremity with complex functional biomechanics and anatomy. The decline in hand grip strength and dexterity with age can adversely affect functional activities. Task?oriented training (TOT) is a treatment approach focused on functional activities of daily life. Aim: To investigate the effect of TOT on hand dexterity, grip strength, and hand function in the geriatric population. Subjects and Methods: Sixteen institutionalized geriatric participants were recruited based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria and assigned to Group A experimental group (nine participants) who received TOT for 4 weeks, 3 days/week along with routine activities and Group B control group (seven participants) who were involved in routine activities only. Gross dexterity was assessed using the box and block test, fine dexterity with nine?hole peg board, hand grip strength with hand dynamometer, and hand function with the Michigan hand outcome questionnaire. The statistical analysis with Student’s t?test was performed using the SPSS software. The significance level kept as P ? 0.05. Results: The analysis expressed significant improvement in gross and fine hand dexterity and grip strength among the experimental group. The hand function did not reveal a statistically significant change. Conclusion: A 4?week TOT program is an effective measure to improve gross and fine dexterity, and muscle grip strength in the geriatric population. For improvement in hand function, a longer training may be required

Relationship between physical fitness and phase angle based on bioelectrical impedance analysis in 6-year-old children / 体力科学

Phase angle, calculated as the arc-tangent of the reactance-to-resistance ratio in bioelectrical impedance analysis, represents skeletal muscle quality, and is suggested to be an indicator of sports ability and physical fitness. However, it is unclear whether phase angle is related to physical fitness in early childhood in Japanese subjects. The purpose of this study was to examine the cross-sectional relationship between physical fitness and bioelectrical impedance analysis-based phase angle in 6-year-old Japanese children. The subjects were 85 kindergarten students who participated in a physical fitness test and body composition assessment in 2017, 2018 or 2019, in the third year of kindergarten. Fitness tests included grip strength, standing long jump, and 25 m run. A multi-frequency composition analyzer was used for body composition analysis, and the phase angle of the left half of the body was acquired at 50 kHz. Statistical analysis was performed using a general linear model to calculate the regression coefficient of phase angle for physical fitness. Phase angle correlated significantly with the standing long jump and 25 m run. The regression coefficient (±standard error) of phase angle in the standing long jump in the fully adjusted model was 5.098 ±2.264 (p<0.05), and that in the 25 m run was -0.179 ±0.088 (p<0.05). There was no significant correlation between phase angle and grip strength. These results suggest that phase angle based on bioelectrical impedance analysis might be related to lower limb muscle function and running ability in 6-year-old Japanese children.