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Background: Subjective rating scales of perceived exertion are often used to quantify effort levels during various endurance exercises, particularly submaximal tasks. The aim of the current study was to determine whether predictive conclusions can be drawn from perceived exertion levels surveyed at the start of defined submaximal endurance tasks. Methods: In this study, healthy participants performed a 10-min endurance task at 50% of their upper body weight, targeting either the back muscles (n = 47, 24 women) or abdominal muscles (n = 32, 17 women). At the end of each minute, participants were asked to rate their perceived exertion (RPE) using the 14-points Borg Scale. Based on their initial and final RPE levels, and for each muscle group separately, participants were divided into subgroups reflecting low (good start/good end) and high (bad start/bad end) strain levels. These values were then compared over the duration of the exercise. Comparisons of RPE levels between subgroups were made using the Mann-Whitney U-test for independent samples, with Bonferroni-Holm correction to account for multiple comparisons. Results: Overall, strain levels increased throughout the duration of the exercise. For the abdominal muscles, the difference between the two RPE groups remained constant over time: participants with good start/end ratings consistently showed different strain levels from those with bad start/end ratings, regardless of whether the grouping was based on initial or final exertion levels. In contrast, for the back muscles, the initial grouping showed a crossover in strain values: by the end of the task, participants in the good start group tended to report higher strain than those in the bad start group. No differences were found in initial RPE values when the grouping was based on final exertion levels. Conclusions: For endurance tasks involving the abdominal muscles, initial strain levels have strong predictive value, whereas this is not the case for the back muscles. Because back muscles are frequently loaded, continuous monitoring of RPE levels is necessary to prevent unexpected task failure, as initial RPE values are not predictive. In contrast, RPE values of 11 or higher on the 14-points Borg scale predict complete exhaustion or even premature task failure with high certainty for abdominal muscle exercises, while lower RPE levels indicate that exercise intensity can be increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Core training is the foundation of physical exercise. The activation of the lateral abdominal wall (LAW) muscles in the core muscles, particularly the transversus abdominal (TrA) muscles, has a stabilizing effect on the chest and abdomen. Therefore, we need to focus on the training effect of the TrA. There are many ways to measure the LAW. Ultrasound can assess the effect of training in real time and intuitively. Therefore, we intend to evaluate the activation of the LAW in different types of core training using ultrasound, to determine the best movements that can activate the TrA and train the core muscles. Methods 22 healthy subjects (male 10, female 12, age 22.82 ± 0.98, BMI 20.78 ± 2.27) were included. The subjects were given the following instructions to perform breathing exercises at different positions: calm breathing and deep breathing at 0° hip flexion and 0° knee flexion; calm breathing, deep breathing, abdominal crunches and ball crunches at 45° hip flexion and 90° knee flexion; and calm breathing, deep breathing, abdominal crunches and ball crunches at 90° hip flexion and 90° knee flexion. The muscle thicknesses of the bilateral transversus abdominis (TrA), internal oblique (IO), external oblique (EO), and LAW muscles were measured using ultrasonography at the end of expiration during the above movements. Results (1) The action with the greatest contraction ratio of the TrA was deep exhalation, which was significantly greater than crunch and ball crunch; (2) During deep exhalation, the TrA had the greatest contraction ratio, significantly greater than the IO and EO. (3) The TrA was thinnest during deep exhalation at 90°, followed by 45° and 0°. Conclusion In healthy young people, deep expiration with 90° hip flexion and 90° knee flexion was the optimal action for activating the LAW, especially the TrA.

Background: Core training is the foundation of physical exercise. The activation of the lateral abdominal wall (LAW) muscles in the core muscles, particularly the transversus abdominal (TrA) muscles, has a stabilizing effect on the chest and abdomen. Therefore, we need to focus on the training effect of the TrA. There are many ways to measure the LAW. Ultrasound can assess the effect of training in real time and intuitively. Therefore, we intend to evaluate the activation of the LAW in different types of core training using ultrasound, to determine the best movements that can activate the TrA and train the core muscles. Methods: 22 healthy subjects (male 10, female 12, age 22.82 ± 0.98, BMI 20.78 ± 2.27) were included. The subjects were given the following instructions to perform breathing exercises at different positions: calm breathing and deep breathing at 0° hip flexion and 0° knee flexion; calm breathing, deep breathing, abdominal crunches and ball crunches at 45° hip flexion and 90° knee flexion; and calm breathing, deep breathing, abdominal crunches and ball crunches at 90° hip flexion and 90° knee flexion. The muscle thicknesses of the bilateral transversus abdominis (TrA), internal oblique (IO), external oblique (EO), and LAW muscles were measured using ultrasonography at the end of expiration during the above movements. Results: (1) The action with the greatest contraction ratio of the TrA was deep exhalation, which was significantly greater than crunch and ball crunch; (2) During deep exhalation, the TrA had the greatest contraction ratio, significantly greater than the IO and EO. (3) The TrA was thinnest during deep exhalation at 90°, followed by 45° and 0°. Conclusion: In healthy young people, deep expiration with 90° hip flexion and 90° knee flexion was the optimal action for activating the LAW, especially the TrA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We aimed to evaluate the performance of predicting metabolic syndrome (MS) using body composition indices obtained by quantitative computed tomography (QCT). Methods: In this cross-sectional study, data were collected from 4745 adults who underwent QCT examinations at a Chongqing teaching hospital between July 2020 and March 2022. Visceral adipose tissue (VAT), subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), total abdominal fat (TAT), abdominal muscle tissue (AMT), and liver fat content (LFC) were measured at the L2–L3 disc level using specialized software, and the skeletal muscle index (SMI) were calculated. The correlations between body composition indicators were analyzed using the Pearson correlation analysis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and area under the curve (AUC) were used to assess these indicators' predictive potential for MS. Results: VAT and TAT exhibited the best predictive ability for MS, with AUCs of 0.797 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.779–0.815] and 0.794 (95% CI: 0.775–0.812) in males, and 0.811 (95% CI: 0.785–0.836) and 0.802 (95% CI: 0.774–0.830) in females. The AUCs for VAT and TAT were the same but significantly higher than body mass index and other body composition measures. SAT also demonstrated good predictive power in females [AUC = 0.725 (95%CI: 0.692–0.759)] but fair power in males [AUC = 0.6673 (95%CI: 0.650–0.696)]. LFC showed average predictive ability, AMT showed average predictive ability in males but poor ability in females, and SMI had no predictive ability. Correlation analysis revealed a strong correlation between VAT and TAT (males: r = 0.95, females: r = 0.89). SAT was strongly correlated with TAT only in females (r = 0.89). In the male group, the optimal thresholds for VAT and TAT were 207.6 and 318.7 cm2, respectively; in the female group, the optimal thresholds for VAT and TAT were 128.0 and 269.4 cm2, respectively. Conclusions: VAT and TAT are the best predictors of MS. SAT and LFC can also be acceptable to make predictions, whereas AMT can only make predictions of MS in males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vojta method improves motor function by inducing a response by pressing the stimulus zones. To determine the effect of the stimulus zones on trunk muscle thickness, trunk control, trunk angle, and gross motor function in children with spastic-type cerebral palsy. A quasi-experimental pilot study was conducted with 19 children with spastic-type cerebral palsy divided into two groups: Vojta method group (n = 10) and general physical therapy group (n = 9). Each group underwent a 6-week intervention, and assessments were conducted to evaluate abdominal muscle thickness, trunk control, trunk angle, and gross motor function. In the Vojta method group, the change rate in the thickness of the internal oblique and transversus abdominis increased significantly within the group (P < 0.05) and the difference (post-pre) of the transversus abdominis was higher (P < 0.05). The trunk angle increased significantly within the group when thoracic 7 and 11, lumbar 3, and sacrum 1 were supported (P < 0.05). There was a significant difference in trunk angle difference (post-pre) between groups when thoracic 11 and sacrum 1 were supported (P < 0.05). Segmental assessment of trunk control and gross motor function measure-88 scores were significantly increased within the group in all groups (P < 0.05). The stimulus zones of the Vojta method could improve trunk control in children with spastic-type cerebral palsy through intra-abdominal pressure and anti-gravity movement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Subjective rating scales of perceived exertion are often used to quantify effort levels during various endurance exercises, particularly submaximal tasks. The aim of the current study was to determine whether predictive conclusions can be drawn from perceived exertion levels surveyed at the start of defined submaximal endurance tasks. Methods: In this study, healthy participants performed a 10-min endurance task at 50% of their upper body weight, targeting either the back muscles (n = 47, 24 women) or abdominal muscles (n = 32, 17 women). At the end of each minute, participants were asked to rate their perceived exertion (RPE) using the 14-points Borg Scale. Based on their initial and final RPE levels, and for each muscle group separately, participants were divided into subgroups reflecting low (good start/good end) and high (bad start/bad end) strain levels. These values were then compared over the duration of the exercise. Comparisons of RPE levels between subgroups were made using the Mann-Whitney U-test for independent samples, with Bonferroni-Holm correction to account for multiple comparisons. Results: Overall, strain levels increased throughout the duration of the exercise. For the abdominal muscles, the difference between the two RPE groups remained constant over time: participants with good start/end ratings consistently showed different strain levels from those with bad start/end ratings, regardless of whether the grouping was based on initial or final exertion levels. In contrast, for the back muscles, the initial grouping showed a crossover in strain values: by the end of the task, participants in the good start group tended to report higher strain than those in the bad start group. No differences were found in initial RPE values when the grouping was based on final exertion levels. Conclusions: For endurance tasks involving the abdominal muscles, initial strain levels have strong predictive value, whereas this is not the case for the back muscles. Because back muscles are frequently loaded, continuous monitoring of RPE levels is necessary to prevent unexpected task failure, as initial RPE values are not predictive. In contrast, RPE values of 11 or higher on the 14-points Borg scale predict complete exhaustion or even premature task failure with high certainty for abdominal muscle exercises, while lower RPE levels indicate that exercise intensity can be increased.

Objective. The aim of this study was to systematically review current literature on the effectiveness of various exercises and modifications on thickness and electrical activity of abdominal muscles using ultrasonography and electromyography in healthy adults. Methods. An electronic search was carried out on PubMed, Web of science, ProQuest, Google Scholar, Cochrane and Science Direct databases covering published studies from inception until December 2022. Fourteen papers were then included according to following inclusion criteria: 1) studies assessing abdominal exercises; 2) containing control and intervention groups; 3) conducted on young and healthy samples; 4) full texts being available in English; 5) containing the analysis of at least one of the four abdominal muscles through electromyography or ultrasonography. Results. The main findings would suggest that stability challenges, rotatory exercise, combination of upper and lower limb movements, sensory cueing and grunting techniques such as Ki-hap make significant improvements in muscle structure and activity. Conclusions. Despite the averagely fair quality of included papers and difficulty to reach a conclusion with inadequate data, our review suggests that new modifications of both traditional and core exercises can cause improvements in abdominal muscle thickness or activity with the aim of focusing on control and coordination of muscles. Study registration. The protocol of the present systematic review is registered in the PROSPERO (CRD42022377864). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the effects of trunk stabilization exercises (TSEs) in addition to conventional exercises in patients with stroke on balance, functionality and abdominal muscle thickness as measured by ultrasonography (USG) and to compare the patients' non-paretic side abdominal muscle thickness with healthy population. Patients and methods: Between April 2019 and June 2019, a total of 26 hemiparesis/hemiplegic patients with stroke (15 males, 11 females; mean age: 62.3±7.8 years; range, 52 to 71 years) confirmed by neurological examination or computed tomography (CT) / magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and 20 age-matched healthy volunteers (12 males, 8 females; mean age: 62.3±7.2 years; range, 53 to 70 years) were included in the study. The patients were randomized into two groups. In the first group (n=13), TSE were performed in addition to conventional neurorehabilitation program, five times/week for a total of four weeks. The second group (n=13) was given conventional neurorehabilitation program, five times/week for a total of four weeks. Also, healthy volunteers as the third group were compared with the patient population. The evaluations were made at the beginning and end of the treatment. The Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Barthel Index (BI), Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients (PASS), and Functional Reach Test (FRT) were used. Abdominal muscle thickness at rest and contraction were evaluated using USG. Results: Ten patients in Group 1 and 10 patients in Group 2 completed study. A significant improvement was observed in all abdominal muscles in both groups (p<0.05), indicating no significant difference between the groups (p>0.05). There was a statistically significant improvement for BBS and FRT in both groups. The PASS and BI scores showed a significant improvement only in TSE group. Conclusion: Both the TSE and conventional neurorehabilitation program provided significant improvements in abdominal muscle thickness, balance and trunk control. For postural control and functionality, additional TSE seems to be more effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PurposeTo explore the association between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and body composition based on magnetic resonance fat fraction (FF) mapping.MethodsA total of 341 subjects, who underwent abdominal MRI examination with FF mapping were enrolled in this study, including 68 T2DM patients and 273 non-T2DM patients. The FFs and areas of visceral adipose tissue (VAT), subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and abdominal muscle (AM) were measured at the level of the L1-L2 vertebral. The FF of bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT) was determined by the averaged FF values measured at the level of T12 and L1 vertebral, respectively. The whole hepatic fat fraction (HFF) and pancreatic fat fraction (PFF) were measured based on 3D semi-automatic segmentation on the FF mapping. All data were analyzed by GraphPad Prism and MedCalc.ResultsVAT area, VAT FF, HFF, PFF of T2DM group were higher than those of non-T2DM group after adjusting for age and sex (P < 0.05). However, there was no differences in SAT area, SAT FF, BMAT FF, AM area and AM FF between the two groups (P > 0.05). VAT area and PFF were independent risk factors of T2DM (all P < 0.05). The area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) for VAT area and PFF in differentiating between T2DM and non-T2DM were 0.685 and 0.787, respectively, and the AUC of PFF was higher than VAT area (P < 0.05). Additionally, in seemingly healthy individuals, the SAT area, VAT area, and AM area were found to be significantly associated with being overweight and/or obese (BMI ≥ 25) (all P < 0.05).ConclusionsIn this study, it was found that there were significant associations between T2DM and VAT area, VAT FF, HFF and PFF. In addition, VAT area and PFF were the independent risk factors of T2DM. Especially, PFF showed a high diagnostic performance in discrimination between T2DM and non-T2DM. These findings may highlight the crucial role of PFF in the pathophysiology of T2DM, and it might be served as a potential imaging biomarker of the prevention and treatment of T2DM. Additionally, in individuals without diabetes, focusing on SAT area, VAT area and AM area may help identify potential health risks and provide a basis for targeted weight management and prevention measures.

Objectives: Lumbopelvic pain (LPP) is a very common cause of discomfort during pregnancy, but its etiology remains unclear. The association between abdominal muscle thickness and LPP in pregnant women has not been studied extensively, despite the significant abdominal changes that occur during pregnancy. This study aimed to examine the relationship between abdominal muscle thickness and LPP in pregnant women. Methods: In this study, 49 pregnant women in their second trimester participated. The intensity of LPP was assessed using a numerical rating scale. Ultrasound imaging was used to measure the thickness of abdominal muscles, including the rectus abdominis, external oblique, internal oblique, and transversus abdominis muscles. Participants were classified into two groups, the LPP group and non‐LPP group, and the abdominal muscle thickness was compared between the two groups. The statistical significance level was set at P <.05. Results: There were 24 and 25 participants in the LPP and non‐LPP groups, respectively. Internal oblique (IO) thickness was significantly thinner in the LPP group than in the non‐LPP group (5.4 ± 0.2 mm versus 6.1 ± 0.2 mm; P =.042). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that IO thickness was significantly associated with LPP (odds ratio, 0.516; 95% confidence interval, 0.284–0.935; P =.019). Conclusions: This study suggested that LPP in second trimester pregnancy might be related to IO thickness. Further longitudinal studies are needed to understand the role of this muscle as an LPP risk factor for pregnant women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present, local and foreign research reports on Thunnus thynnus have focused on fishery biology, fishing, and genetic diversity, among others. There are few reports on nutrition and flavor related to the different muscles of T. thynnus. To scientifically evaluate the nutritional quality and major flavor of different muscle parts of T. thynnus, the basic nutritional components, amino acid composition, fatty acid composition, and volatile flavor substances of dorsal and abdominal muscles were compared. Except for ash, the moisture, crude protein, and fat contents varied significantly between the dorsal and abdominal muscles (P < 0.05). The moisture contents of the dorsal and abdominal muscles were 57.79 g/100 g and 50.16 g/100 g, respectively. The protein content was 24.70 g/100 g and 18.61 g/100 g, respectively. The protein content of dorsal muscles was 24.70 g/100 g, which was 1.33 times that of the abdomen. The crude fat content of the dorsal muscles was 19.34 g/100 g, and in the abdomen was 30.29 g/100 g, which was 1.57 times that in the dorsal muscles. The crude ash content of dorsal and abdominal muscles was 1.01 g/100 g and 1.08 g/100 g, respectively. Seventeen amino acids were detected in different parts of T. thynnus. The total amino acid content differed significantly between the dorsal (22.07±0.74) g/100 gand abdominal muscles (16.57±0.47) g/100 g. The essential amino acid content of dorsal and abdominal muscles was (8.61±0.29) g/100 g and (6.28±0.17) g/100 g, respectively. The content of glutamate was the highest among the amino acids, followed by aspartic acid, and the content of cystine was the lowest. The ratio of essential amino acids to total amino acids of different muscle parts of T. thynnus was 40%, and the ratio of essential amino acids to nonessential amino acids was > 60%, which was close to the ideal protein nutrition evaluation model recommended by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations/World Health Organization (FAO/WHO). Thus, the dorsal and abdominal muscles are high-quality proteins. The umami taste of aquatic products is closely related to the content of umami amino acids. Four types of umami amino acids showed the highest content levels, namely glutamic acid, aspartic acid, alanine, and glycine (in descending order of content level). The proportion of umami amino acids in dorsal and abdominal muscles was 34.93% and 35.91%, respectively, both exceeding 30%, which indicated that the dorsal and abdominal muscles of T. thynnus have a delicious quality. In the dorsal and abdominal muscles, 24 and 29 kinds of fatty acids were detected, including 8 and 12 kinds of saturated fatty acids, 6 kinds of monounsaturated fatty acids, and 10 and 11 kinds of polyunsaturated fatty acids, respectively, and there was a significant difference among the contents of different types of fatty acids. The contents of myristic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid were higher than those of other saturated fatty acids. The contents of oleic acid and eicosanoic acid were higher in monounsaturated fatty acids. The total content of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid in the dorsal and abdominal muscles accounted for 88.55% and 75.13% of polyunsaturated fatty acids, respectively. Therefore, the dorsal and abdominal muscles have good functional properties. The FAO/WHO recommends that the intake ratio of n-6 to n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the diet should be 4:6, and the ratio of dorsal and abdominal muscles ranged from 0.41 to 0.44, which is much smaller than the standard. These results indicate that T. thynnus is rich in n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. A total of 39 volatile substances were detected in the dorsal and abdominal muscles of T. thynnus, including aldehydes, ketones, alcohols, esters, acids, alkenes, and compounds containing nitrogen and sulfur. PCA analysis showed that there was a significant difference between the odors of the dorsal and abdominal muscles of T. thynnus. Gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry can effectively be used to distinguish the different volatiles associated with the muscles. The relative contents of 2-methylthiophene, (E)-2-hexen-1-ol, pentanoic acid, alpha-pinene, propanoic acid, butyl butanoate, 2-pentylfuran, pentyl butanoate, dipropyl disulfide, diallyl disulfide, ethylheptanoate, alpha-terpineol, methylisobutylketone, 2-methylbutanal-D, and 2-methylbutanal-M were higher in the abdomen; the relative contents of (E)-2-pentenal, N-nitromethylethylamine, methylpyrazine, 3-methylbutanol, 1-2-dimethylbenzene, triethylamine, E-3-hexene-1-ol, 4-methyl-2-pentanol, ethyl 2-methylpropanoate, 2-butanone, ethyl acetate, 3-butenonitrile, and 2, 4, 5-trimethylthiazole were higher in abdominal muscle. The difference in composition and content caused the dorsal and abdominal muscles to form their own flavor characteristics, which were mainly related to the amino acid and fatty acid composition of the two parts. In general, the dorsal muscles mainly presented a fatty fragrance, whereas the abdominal muscles mainly presented a clear fragrance. The dorsal and abdominal muscles of T. thynnus are rich in nutrients and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Both muscles have a delicious taste, though they vary in flavor characteristics. This study provides a scientific basis for the deep processing and utilization of T. thynnus.

Introduction: This study was designed to assess the percentage share of musculus obliquus externus abdominis, musculus obliquus internus abdominis and musculus transversus abdominis activity among women suffering from stress urinary incontinence using ultrasound imaging. Material and methods: The study is a retrospective analysis of prospective collected data of 84 women aged 23-62 years. In the study group are women suffering from grade 1 or 2 stress urinary incontinence according to the Stamey classification; the control group consists of women with no micturition disorders. The abdominal muscles' activity was measured by using ultrasound imaging with assessment of muscle thickness. Results: The analysis of musculus obliquus externus abdominis in anterolateral abdominal wall activity shows a statistically significant difference between study and control groups concerning isometric tension of abdominal muscles (p = 0.012) and lower abdomen tension (p = 0.004). Women with stress urinary incontinence present higher activity of the musculus obliquus externus abdominis than women in the control group. In the case of the musculus obliquus internus abdominis, statistically significant differences were found during tension of the lower part of the abdomen (p = 0.024). Comparison of activity of the musculus transversus abdominis between study and control groups shows a statistically significant difference during isometric tension of abdominal muscles (p = 0.018). Conclusions: The pattern of activity of the assessed muscles differs between the study group and the control group. In the study group, the activity pattern concerns the higher activity of the musculus obliquus externus abdominis and the lower activity of the musculus obliquus internus abdominis and musculus transversus abdominis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The muscles of the abdominal wall play a fundamental role in the stabilization of the pelvis and the spinal column, and they must function properly. The simultaneous combination of physical exercise with electrical currents, called dynamic electrostimulation, can have beneficial effects on this musculature in terms of gaining muscle mass and strength. Our research aimed to determine the immediate effects of a single session of dynamic electrostimulation on the thickness of the abdominal musculature and the inter-rectus distance evaluated by ultrasound, as well as on the physiological parameters of heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature. In addition to the possible differences according to the way of application—local with electrodes placed in the abdominal area or global with whole-body electrostimulation—a total of 120 healthy participants were randomly divided into three groups: WB-EMS, EMS, and control groups. No differences were found in the results of the variables analyzed between the groups, except for heart rate. The EMS group showed a smaller increase in post-intervention heart rate compared to the WB-EMS and control groups. The use of localized dynamic EMS on the abdominal musculature in populations with cardiorespiratory disorders could be of interest, and more research is needed. Dynamic electrostimulation consists of the application of local or global electrostimulation together with physical exercise. This study aimed to investigate the immediate effects of a dynamic electrostimulation session on the thickness of the abdominal musculature, inter-rectus distance, heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature, and to identify possible differences in its form of application. A total of 120 healthy participants were divided into three groups: the whole-body electrostimulation group, the local electrostimulation group, and the control group without electrical stimulation. All groups performed a single session with the same dynamic exercise protocol. Muscle thickness and inter-rectus distance were evaluated ultrasonographically using the Rehabilitative Ultrasound Imaging technique both at rest and in muscle contraction (the active straight leg raise test) to find the post-intervention differences. The results showed significant differences in immediate post-intervention heart rate, with a smaller increase in the local electrostimulation group compared to the control and whole-body electrostimulation groups. No significant differences were identified between the groups after the interventions in the rest of the variables analyzed. Therefore, a local application, with the same effects as a global application on the abdominal musculature, has fewer contraindications, which makes its use more advisable, especially in populations with cardiorespiratory disorders, for which more research is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Children with unilateral cerebral palsy (CP) exhibit abnormal movements due to atypical pelvic movements and weakness of trunk muscles. We investigated the effects of abdominal muscle strengthening and pelvic control exercises on trunk control, abdominal muscle thickness change rate, and pelvic movement in children with unilateral CP. Fourteen children with unilateral CP were randomly divided into two groups, and abdominal muscle strengthening and pelvic control exercises were applied to the experimental group, and general physical therapy was applied to the control group, 30 min per session, twice a week, for a total of 8 weeks, respectively. The trunk control measurement scale (TCMS) was used to measure trunk control, ultrasonography was used to measure abdominal muscle thickness change rate, and a wearable gait analysis system was used to measure pelvic movement. As a result, in the experimental group, TCMS showed a significant increase within the group, and the rotation range of the pelvis significantly decreased within the group on the affected and nonaffected sides. There was a significant difference between the groups in the abdominal muscle thickness change rate of the internal oblique on the affected side. Improving trunk control through abdominal strengthening and pelvic control exercises affected the deep muscles on the affected side and contributed to a reduction in excessive pelvic rotation range. Therefore, abdominal muscle strengthening and pelvic control exercises may be suggested as intervention methods to improve function in unilateral CP., Competing Interests: CONFLICT OF INTEREST No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported., (Copyright © 2024 Korean Society of Exercise Rehabilitation.)

(1) Background: Decreased trunk stability is accompanied by delay in motor development in children with central hypotonia. We investigated the effect of Vojta therapy on trunk control in the sitting position in children with central hypotonia. (2) Methods: In 20 children with central hypotonia, Vojta therapy was applied to the experimental group (n = 10) and general physical therapy to the control group (n = 10). The intervention was applied for 30 min per session, three times a week, for a total of six weeks. We assessed abdominal muscle thickness, trunk control (segmental assessment of trunk control), trunk angle and trunk sway in a sitting position, and gross motor function measure-88. (3) Results: In the experimental group, the thicknesses of internal oblique and transversus abdominis were significantly increased (p < 0.05). The segmental assessment of trunk control score was significantly increased (p < 0.05), and the trunk sway significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Gross motor function measure-88 was significantly increased (p < 0.05). (4) Conclusions: Vojta therapy can be suggested as an effective intervention method for improving trunk control and gross motor function in children with central hypotonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Axial muscles are involved earlier and to a greater extent in late-onset Pompe disease (LOPD) than in myotonic muscular dystrophy type 1 (DM1). We aimed to evaluate abdominal muscles in LOPD compared in DM1 using muscle ultrasonography. Methods: Patients with LOPD (n = 3), DM1 (n = 10), and age- and gender-matched healthy subjects (n = 34) were enrolled for muscle ultrasonography. Patients with LOPD and DM1 were 20 to 59 years of age with a disease duration ranging between 7 and 30 years. A multifrequency linear transducer was used to evaluate quality and thickness in the abdominal muscles and extremities. Results: The quantitative muscle echo score revealed a higher Z score in abdominal muscles in Patients with LOPD (scores were relatively normal for the biceps and flexor digitorum groups). Patients with LOPD had significantly lower abdominal muscle thickness than patients with DM1. Abdominal muscle strength was significantly correlated with the muscle echogenicity, trunk impairment scale, and trunk control test. The extremities' sum score was correlated with the total Medical Research Council score. Discussion: The increased quantitative muscle score in abdominal muscles, sparing the biceps and flexor digitorumgroups, may offer differential diagnosis between LOPD and DM1. Ultrasound can easily access abdominal muscles and investigate muscle echogenicity and thickness. A quantitative approach usingmuscle echogenicity rather thanmuscle thicknessmay provide a greater correlation with trunk muscle function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and hypothesis: Various positions for pelvic floor muscle (PFM) relaxation are recommended during PFM training in physiotherapy clinics. To our knowledge, there is no study addressing the most effective position for PFM and abdominal muscle relaxation. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate the effect of different relaxation positions on PFM and abdominal muscle functions in women with urinary incontinence (UI). Methods: Sixty-seven women diagnosed with UI were enrolled in the study. The type, frequency, and amount of UI were assessed with the International Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form and bladder diary. Superficial electromyography was used to assess PFM and abdominal muscle functions during three relaxation positions: modified butterfly pose (P1), modified child pose (P2), and modified deep squat with block (P3). Friedman variance analyses and Wilcoxon signed rank test with Bonferroni corrections were used to evaluate the difference between positions. Results: The most efficient position for PFM relaxation was P1 and followed by P3 and P2, respectively. The order was also the same for abdominal muscles (p < 0.001), P1 > P3 > P2. The rectus abdominis (RA) was the most affected muscle during PFM relaxation. The extent of relaxation of RA muscle increased as the extent of PFM relaxation increased (r = 0.298, p = 0.016). No difference was found between different types of UI during the same position in terms of PFM relaxation extents (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Efficient PFM relaxation is maintained during positions recommended in physiotherapy clinics. The extent of PFM and abdominal muscle relaxation varies according to the positions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the immediate effect of kinesio taping (KT) over abdominal muscles with different tensions on the components of the lumbopelvic complex. Materials and Methods: This is a single-blind randomized controlled clinical trial. Participants were 44 healthy male athletes aged 18-30 years with increased anterior pelvic tilt (PT). Three intervention groups underwent 15 minutes of KT over rectus abdominis and external oblique muscles with tensions of 100, 115, and 140%, respectively, and one group was considered as the control group with no KT. The PT and lumbar lordosis angles and iliopsoas and hamstring muscle lengths were measured before and after the KT. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to compare the means in the study groups before and after the intervention. Results: The mean of right and left PT and lumbar lordosis angles in groups with 115 and 140% tensions before and after the intervention were statistically different (P<0.05). Moreover, the mean of right and left PT and lumbar lordosis angles showed a significant difference between the groups after the intervention (P<0.05). There was a significant difference in active and passive hamstring lengths on both sides in the group received KT with 140% tension before and after the intervention (P<0.05). Conclusion: Kinesio taping with high tension on rectus abdominis and external oblique muscles can reduce their PT angle and lumbar lordosis and increase hamstring muscle length in men with increased anterior PT. This issue should be considered in lumbopelvic complex physiotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the immediate effect of kinesio taping (KT) over abdominal muscles with different tensions on the components of the lumbopelvic complex. Materials and Methods: This is a single-blind randomized controlled clinical trial. Participants were 44 healthy male athletes aged 18-30 years with increased anterior pelvic tilt (PT). Three intervention groups underwent 15 minutes of KT over rectus abdominis and external oblique muscles with tensions of 100, 115, and 140%, respectively, and one group was considered as the control group with no KT. The PT and lumbar lordosis angles and iliopsoas and hamstring muscle lengths were measured before and after the KT. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to compare the means in the study groups before and after the intervention. Results: The mean of right and left PT and lumbar lordosis angles in groups with 115 and 140% tensions before and after the intervention were statistically different (P

Urinary incontinence is a fairly common problem in women that has a serious impact on their health and quality of life. The problem is associated with significant socio-economic costs. This study aims to trace the effect of hypopressive and specialized Kegel exercises in women with this problem. Methodology: UDI-6, IIQ-7 Questionaire and Kiel test for abdominal, back and gluteal musculature are used for assessment of the patients. Fourty-seven women were recruited and randomly divided in tree-experimental group 1 (EG 1 N=15), experimental group 2 (EG2 N=16) and experimental group 3 (EG3 N=16). For the women of EG 1 therapy includes - Hypopressive exersice, the EG 2 received Kegel exercise and EG 3 received - a combination of both. Every women received five procedures per week for 3 months. Assessment form were done before and after therapy. Results: Initial measurements from the Kiel test for abdominal muscles for EG 1 is 17.00±3.07 sec. and finally achieve 32.07±5.47 sec. The EG 2 initial values are 18.75±2.89 sec. and 43.75±7.24 sec. after treatment. For EG 3 was 17.63±4.06 sec. and 53.31±4.27 sec. We compare the results obtained after treatment between EG 1 and EG 2, EG 2 and EG 3 and EG 1 and EG 3. There were no differences between tree groups after analyze the results of UDI-6 questionnaire. The mean values of IIQ-7 for the EG 1 were as follows: 70.56±2.48 before and 50.48±2.8 after hyporpessive exercise. For the EG 2 mean values before treatment were 69.98 ±3.26, and decrease to 45.53±3.28 after treatment. There were no statistically significant difereces between EG 1 and EG 2. For the EG 3 mean values before treatment were 72.69±3.37, and decrease to 37.14±2.8 after treatment. We obtained best results in women of this group. Conclusions: Hypoprressive exercise leads to the strength of the abdominal musculature for the groups where were applied. The urinary incontinence and the pelvic floor dysfunction are equally well affected by Hypopressive gymnastics and Kegel exercises, as well as a combination of both. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this present investigation was to compare changes in transverse abdominis (TrA) thickness in a functional position with those in a less functional but more supportive posture and to determine which posture showed greater changes in TrA thickness between rest and during abdominal drawing-in maneuver (ADIM) relative to external oblique (EO) and internal oblique (IO) muscles., Methods: Thirty adult participants with chronic low back pain were included in this observational study. The abdominal muscle thickness was measured in the supine, crook lying, prone, quadruped, sitting, side bridge, and standing poitions on a tilt board using ultrasonography. The mean of abdominal muscle thickness changes was measured during ADIM, and a sphygmomanometer was used in the supine position under the lumbar spine and in the prone position under the abdominal wall. Transverse abdominis, EO, and IO muscle thickness changes during all tasks were normalized according to the supine rest position., Results: Transverse abdominis muscle thickness changes were increased in the quadruped and sitting positions compared with other positions ( P < .05). Results demonstrated increased EO muscle thickness changes in the prone position compared with other positions ( P < .05). Internal oblique muscle thickness changes were not significant during different positions ( P > .05). However, the IO muscle thickness was higher in all positions compared with TrA and EO muscle., Conclusion: Our study revealed that participants with chronic low back pain exhibited increased TrA muscle activity in the sitting position on a gym ball and in the quadruped position compared with during leg tasks. However, the EO muscle thickness changes were increased during an ADIM with a sphygmomanometer under the abdomen., (© 2024 by National University of Health Sciences.)

Low back pain is a common problem in athletes, especially women who practice strength sports or high impact sports. From a pathokinesiological point of view, core instability inevitably leads to pain and impaired function in the lumbar spine. Various studies have been conducted in an attempt to determine effective methods for conservative treatment of musculoskeletal dysfunction in the back. The majority of studies do not report high evidence or solution to the problem in long term. The present research aims to follow the effect of hypopressive exercise program and myofascial techniques for low back pain in women who practice strength sports. Methodology: The methodology of the study includes conducting functional studies and tests - Merl d'Aubigne and Visual Analogue Scale(VAS) for pain assessment; Shober and Lasseg test to evaluate range of movement of the lumbar region and manual muscle testing (MMT) for abdominal and back musculature. A contingent of 42 women who practice strength sports were recruited according to the indications of experimental therapy and randomly divided in two-experimental group (EG N=22) and control group (CG N=20). The complex therapy for the EG includes - Hypopressive exersice, position-release techniques (PRT) and muscle-energy techniques (MET). The CG received routine kinesitherapeutic exercise for abdominal and back muscle and massage. Every participant received four procedures per week for 10 consecutive weeks. Measurements and tests were done before and after treatment. Results: Mean values of Merl dÁubigne modified scale for dynamic pain assessment show 3.46±0.6 points before, 0.82±0.73 points after therapy for EG, and 3.5±0.61 points and 2.2±0.62 points respectively for the women of the CG. Mean values of pain threshold measured before the complex therapy for women of EG was 7.13±0.94mm before and 2.68±0.94mm after treatment and 7.70±0.86mm and 5.65±0.67mm for the women of CG. Shober test initially shows 12.52±0.14cm for EG and 14.93±1.82cm for the CG and finally increase to 12.8±1.36cm and 14.13±1.15cm respectively. MMT shows much stronger abdominal muscles in women of the EG. Data demonstrates statistically significant differences after treatment (p<0.05). Conclusions: Pain symptoms decrease significantly, and the range of movement and functionality of the lumbar region improves. The abdominal and back muscles are much stronger which provides stability of the spine in the area. In addition to treatment, the therapy can be successfully used to prevent recurrences of the symptoms especially in women who practice strength sports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectiveTo examine the association of abdominal muscle area with coronary artery calcium (CAC) presence, extent, and progression in a multi-ethnic cohort of older, community-dwelling post-menopausal women.Design and settingCross-sectional and longitudinal population-based cohort.ParticipantsThe sample comprised 179 non-Hispanic White women, 116 Filipina women and 144 African American women, all without known CVD, who underwent chest and abdominal computed tomography (CT) scans twice about four years apart for abdominal muscle and fat, as well as CAC.Main outcome measuresCAC presence, extent and progression.ResultsThere was a significant interaction of ethnicity with baseline oblique muscle area (p-for-interaction .01), and marginally significant interactions with baseline total and paraspinal muscle for change in CAC (p-for-interactions both .09). Among Filipina women, each standard deviation (SD) greater total muscle area was associated with a 26% (95% CI (-43%, -4%), P=.02) reduced rate of change in CAC; higher paraspinal and oblique muscle area were associated with a 24% (-38%, -6%, P=.01) and a 37% (-53%, -16%, P=.0002) reduced rate of change in CAC, respectively. These associations were not significant in African American or non-Hispanic White women. There were no significant associations of abdominal muscle with CAC presence or extent, nor were there significant ethnicity by muscle interactions in these models.ConclusionsAmong Filipina women, greater abdominal muscle mass is associated with a decreased rate of CAC progression. Higher muscle mass may be important for this group in reducing CVD outcomes.

(1) Background: Decreased trunk stability is accompanied by delay in motor development in children with central hypotonia. We investigated the effect of Vojta therapy on trunk control in the sitting position in children with central hypotonia. (2) Methods: In 20 children with central hypotonia, Vojta therapy was applied to the experimental group (n = 10) and general physical therapy to the control group (n = 10). The intervention was applied for 30 min per session, three times a week, for a total of six weeks. We assessed abdominal muscle thickness, trunk control (segmental assessment of trunk control), trunk angle and trunk sway in a sitting position, and gross motor function measure-88. (3) Results: In the experimental group, the thicknesses of internal oblique and transversus abdominis were significantly increased (p < 0.05). The segmental assessment of trunk control score was significantly increased (p < 0.05), and the trunk sway significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Gross motor function measure-88 was significantly increased (p < 0.05). (4) Conclusions: Vojta therapy can be suggested as an effective intervention method for improving trunk control and gross motor function in children with central hypotonia.

The core muscles can be evaluated through functional tests, such as the prone bridge test (PBT) and supine unilateral bridge test (SUBT). However, there are differences in reliability and muscle fatigue related to these tests. The study evaluated 30 sedentary individuals and 30 individuals who practiced resistance exercises. Participants performed the PBT and SUBT in association with muscle recruitment, through surface electromyography of the upper and lower limbs and trunk muscles. The order of the tests was random and the participants performed one repetition of each test until fatigue. After a 30-min rest interval the participants repeated the tests. After one week, the participants returned and repeated the tests. The resistance group (RG) presented longer PBT holding time (RG 111.8 ± 9.4 and sedentary group (SG) 81 ± 7.7; p = 0.01), while the holding time in the SUBT was similar for both groups (RG = 100.7 ± 8.1 and SG = 79 ± 9.2; p = 0.09). Good to excellent reliability (ICC >0.836; SEM < 3.85) was established for the PBT and SUBT. Comparing the two groups there were no significant differences or interactions regarding muscle fatigue. The intragroup analysis on the PBT indicated greater gluteus maximus muscle fatigue, and for the SUBT the rectus abdominis presented greater fatigue, in both groups. The PBT and SUBT are reliable. Resistance exercise practitioners maintain the PBT for a longer time. The PBT led to greater gluteus maximus muscle fatigue, while the SUBT generated greater fatigue in the rectus abdominis and gluteus medius, in both groups. • The reliability values of the prone bridge test and supine unilateral bridge test are between good and excellent. • Young individuals who practice resisted exercises remain for a longer time in the prone bridge test. • Fatigue in the muscles during the prone bridge test and supine unilateral bridge test presented the same pattern. • The time until fatigue demonstrated difference in this fatigue pattern and may require strategies to sustain the position. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background : This cross-sectional observational study aimed to investigate differences in abdominal musculature thickness, pelvic tilt, and trunk mobility between women with primary dysmenorrhea (PD) and a control group (CG). Methods : Participants included 44 women (22 with PD and 22 controls) aged over 18, nulliparous, and of reproductive age. Ultrasound imaging was used to measure the thickness of the transverse abdominis (TrA), internal oblique (IO), external oblique (EO), and rectus abdominis (RA) muscles at rest and during contraction. Additionally, anterior pelvic tilt was assessed using the Palpation Meter (PALM), and trunk flexion and extension were measured using an accelerometer (activForce2). Results : Significant differences ( p < 0.05) were found in RA and EO muscle thickness, with lower values in the PD group compared to CG. However, there were no significant differences ( p > 0.05) in TrA and IO muscle thickness, anterior pelvic tilt, or trunk mobility between groups. Conclusions : These findings contribute to understanding the musculoskeletal factors potentially involved in dysmenorrhea. Further research is needed to explore associations between PD and structural and alignment parameters.

Background/Aims: Abdominal obesity is recognized as the main reason of metabolic syndrome, which is closely related to disordered skeletal and/or abdominal muscle metabolic functions. Metabolomics is a comprehensive assessment system in biological metabolites. The aim of our present study is to investigate the diet-induced metabolic risk factors by metabolic in the abdominal muscles and clarify the relationship between atheroprotective effects of Resveratrol (Rev) and abdominal muscles metabolic components during the development of atherosclerosis. Methods: The mice were randomly divided into three groups including normal group (N), high fat diet (HFD or H) group and high fat diet with Rev treated group (HR). GC-MS combined with pattern recognition approaches were employed to obtain comprehensive metabolic signatures and related differential metabolites after 24 week HFD feeding. Oil Red O staining and Electron microscopy technology (EMT) were employed to detect the size of fatty plaques and intracellular lipid accumulation, respectively. Results: The result indicated that 22 types of metabolites in the abdominal muscles were obviously altered by HFD feeding group. Moreover, Rev treatment obviously increased 11 different kinds of metabolites, most of which were involved in the carbohydrate, amino acid and lipid metabolisms. Importantly, these elevated different metabolites were involved in pathways mainly related to galactose metabolism, alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism in abdominal muscles. Oil Red O staining and Electron microscopy showed less lipid accumulation in the lesions and decreased intracellular lipid deposition in the foam cells in HR group. Conclusions: We concluded that Rev produced a beneficial effect partially by modulating multiple metabolism pathways and metabolites in the abdominal muscles, which may provide a new protective mechanism of Rev on the progression of atherosclerosis. These notably changed metabolites might be potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets during development of metabolic syndrome and atherosclerosis.

To analyze the effects of whole body vibration on electromyographic activity of the core muscles. This is an observational cross-sectional study composed of 30 males who practice physical activity. The amplitude of the electromyographic activation (Root Mean Square - RMS) of the rectus abdominis, external oblique, longissimus thoracis, multifidus muscles were evaluated during supine bridge, side plank and frontal plank exercises, performed with and without vibration (frequency: 50 Hz and amplitude: 4 mm). A significance level of 5% was assigned for all analyzes. Whole body vibration did not alter the amplitude of electromyographic activity for any of the evaluated muscle groups, showing no difference between the conditions with and without vibration during the performance of the proposed exercises. Under the conditions analyzed in this study, the vibrating platform does not change the activation amplitude of core muscles, suggesting that the use of whole body vibration is not necessary as an additional method to increase muscle activity during stabilization exercises in healthy men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The purpose of the present study was to establish which type of exercise is optimal for Rectus Abdominis (RA) muscle, by measuring thickness and length changes using the extended field of view ultrasonography (EFOV US) during different conditions. The second purpose was to estimate the reliability of EFOV US as a muscle morphology assessment tool.Material and Methods: Segmental muscle thickness and length of 11 young healthy adults was assessed during 1) rest and isometric 2) trunk lifting, 3) leg lifting and 4) combined trunk and leg lifting exercises with the use of EFOV US.Results: RA muscle thickness was significantly greater during exercises compared to rest (p<0.05). It was also observed that proximal and proximal-middle segments showed significantly less thickness and length compared to distal-middle and distal segments (p<0.05). Even though no differences in thickness were observed between the exercises, leg lifting and combined trunk and leg lifting exercises affected more the distal segment of RA muscle (p<0.05). Moreover, no significant differences in length between exercises was found (p>0.05). Further, EFOV US displayed excellent reliability as the ICC values ranged from 0.82 to 0.97.Conclusions: According to our observations it seems that exercises that induce lifting of the legs might be more effective for the distal parts of RA muscle. EFOV appears to be a reliable diagnostic tool for measuring RA muscle thickness during rest and contracting states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus) is an invasive species displacing native European crayfish from their natural habitats. The elemental composition of the population from the southern Baltic coastal river and the potential health hazards are not known. The aim of the conducted research was to assess the quantitative content of Al, As, Ca, Cd, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Na, Ni, Pb, Se, and Zn in meat, hepatopancreas, and exoskeleton in a population from Wieprza River (Poland) and compare the results with the recommendations of daily human consumption. Analysis also involved the composition of water and sediments. The concentrations of elements were analyzed using an Atomic Absorption Spectrometer. The bioconcentration factor (BCF) of elements in the signal crayfish was much higher from water than from sediments. Bioaccumulation of elements differed between the particular parts of the body of crayfish, e.g., Ca showed extreme predominance in the exoskeleton, while in meat exhibited a predominance of K, Na, Ca, and Mg. Among trace elements, crayfish meat was the richest in Zn, Cu, and Fe. The concentrations of non-essential Cd, Pb, and As were low compared to other determined elements. The highest concentrations of As, Cd, Cu, Fe, Ni, and Se were found in the hepatopancreas, while the highest levels of Al and Pb were found in the exoskeleton. Generally, it was found that the meat of P. leniusculus can be a perfect supplement to the human diet, and the consumption of 100 g of meat per day did not exceed the dietary reference values for essential elements and also for Al, As, Cd, Ni, and Pb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The associations of body composition components, including muscle and adipose tissue, and markers of subclinical coronary artery disease are unclear. We examined the relation between abdominal computed tomography (CT)-derived measures of the area and density of fat and muscle with coronary artery calcification (CAC), using data from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA). A total of 1,974 randomly selected MESA participants free of coronary heart disease underwent abdominal CT scans at examinations 2 or 3, with the resulting images interrogated for abdominal body composition. Using 6 cross-sectional slices spanning L2 to L5, the Medical Imaging Processing Analysis and Visualization software was used to determine abdominal muscle and fat composition using appropriate Hounsfield units ranges. CT chest scans were used to obtain CAC scores, calculated using the Agatston method and spatially weighted calcium score. Multivariable linear and logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the relation between abdominal visceral fat and muscle area and density to prevalent CAC. A total of 1,089 participants had a CAC >0, with an average CAC score of 310. In the fully adjusted model, for every 10-cm 2 increase in visceral fat area, the likelihood of having a CAC greater than 0 increased by 0.60% (p <0.001). In the minimally adjusted model, abdominal muscle area was significantly associated with CAC >0, which became nonsignificant in the fully adjusted model. For the density of visceral fat, every 1-Hounsfield unit increase (less lipid-dense fat tissue), the likelihood of having a CAC score >0 decreased by 0.29% (p <0.05). No significant relation was observed between density of abdominal muscle and CAC >0. A greater area and higher lipid density of abdominal visceral fat were associated with an increased likelihood of having CAC, whereas there was no significant relation between abdominal muscle area or density and CAC. The quantity and the quality of fat have associations, with an important marker of subclinical atherosclerosis, CAC, and their significance with respect to cardiovascular outcomes, require further evaluation., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors have no competing interest to declare., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

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Objectives: To investigate the reliability of reporting and relationship between MRI parameters at injury and time to return to play (RTP) in first class cricket fast bowlers with side strain in Australia and England.Design: Cohort study.Methods: Eighty MRI scans of side strain injuries to 57 fast bowlers were sourced. Ten scans were reported by three experienced radiologists to determine intra- and inter-rater reliability. The relationship between six MRI parameters (muscle injured, presence of a muscle tear, rib level of injury, presence of blood fluid products/haematoma, periosteal stripping, rib oedema) and time to RTP was investigated with 39 scans reported by a single radiologist with known intra-rater reliability. The association between parameters and time to RTP was analysed with an ordinal logistic regression model.Results: Recovery time was prolonged with a mean of 39days (standard deviation: 14days) and 44% of bowlers requiring more than 6weeks to RTP. Reliability levels between parameters varied widely. The presence or absence of a muscle tear was the only MRI parameter associated with time to RTP. Players with a muscle tear were 8 times more likely to take more than 6weeks to RTP. The multifactorial model was predictive of recovery time in only 53% of this cohort, leaving 47% of total variance in time to RTP unexplained.Conclusions: The presence of a muscle tear was associated with time to RTP in cricket fast bowlers with side strain injury in first class cricket in Australia and England. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: The maximal abdominal contraction maneuver (MACM) was designed as an effective and efficient breathing exercise to increase the stability of the spinal joint. However, it has not been determined whether MACM is more effective and efficient than the maximal expiration method. Thus, the present study was undertaken to investigate whole abdominal muscle thickness changes after MACM. Materials and Methods: Thirty healthy subjects (17 males and 13 females) participated in this study. An experimental comparison between MACM and the maximal expiration task was conducted by measuring the change of abdominal muscle thickness such as the transverse abdominis (TrA), internal oblique (IO), external oblique (EO) and rectus abdominis (RA) using ultrasound images. Results: The results indicated that MACM resulted in significantly greater muscle thickness increases of the TrA and RA than the maximal expiration exercise (p < 0.05). Conclusion: MACM provided better exercise than the maximal expiration exercise in terms of increasing spine stability, at least from a co-contraction perspective.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Low back pain (LBP) is a musculoskeletal disorder and a relatively common complaint. Muscles, as the most important stabilizers of the spine, are impaired in patients with LBP. The aim of this study is to compare the symmetry of abdominal muscle size in the dominant and non-dominant sides as well as the painful and painless sides between healthy adolescents and adolescents with LBP. METHODS: This case-control study was conducted on 80 healthy adolescents and 80 adolescents with chronic nonspecific LBP, aged 15 to 18 years. Samples were chosen using convenience sampling method while being matched in terms of height, weight and body mass index. First, the demographic data were collected; then, their abdominal muscle size (transverse abdominus, internal oblique and external oblique) and intra-abdominal fat were measured by sonography. FINDINGS: The difference in mean value and possibility value for transverse abdominus (p=0.024 and 0.189), internal oblique (p=0.000 and 0.861), external oblique (p=0.031 and 0.287) and intra-abdominal fat (p=0.762 and 0.081) was significant between the two groups in term of abdominal muscle size while the difference in intra-abdominal fat size was not statistically significant. Results also revealed a statistically significant difference in abdominal muscle size (except for external oblique and intra-abdominal fat) between the dominant and non-dominant sides (p

Objective: In Parkinson's disease (PD), abnormal postures are often accompanied, which interfere with rehabilitation and subsequent functional recovery. This study investigated the relationship between clinical characteristics and improvement in abnormal postures of PD patients who received subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS).Methods: Seventy-four PD patients were included in this study. Clinical data were analyzed using the patients' functional status at pre- and post-STN-DBS, including anteflexion vs. non-anteflexion, scoliosis vs. non-scoliosis, improved anteflexion vs. non-improved anteflexion, and improved scoliosis vs. non-improved scoliosis.Results: In patients with anteflexion, UPDRS III motor score at off medication was worse than that of patients with non-anteflexion. Patients with scoliosis presented with more comorbid spinal deformity and longer disease duration than those without scoliosis. Cobb angle of patients with asymmetrical psoas major and erector spinal muscles was more than that of patients without the asymmetry. Patients with improved anteflexion after STN-DBS had thicker abdominal oblique muscle and transverse abdominal muscle than those of patients without improved anteflexion. Patients with improved scoliosis were significantly younger at PD onset than those without improvement.Conclusions: There were only a few prognostic factors recognized in patients with improved postures. The thick abdominal muscle for anteflexion and younger PD onset for scoliosis were significant factors for improvement by STN-DBS. Rehabilitation designed to maintain muscle for correct postures may contribute to the amelioration of abnormal postures by STN-DBS, although multicenter trials are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three types of material meats were prepared from a so-called normal muscle part of white croaker ( Pennahia argentata ) containing 0, 4.2 and 8.4% of an abdominal muscle part. Thermally induced gels were then prepared from these materials by pre-heating at 65 °C for 30 or 60 min and subsequent heating at 85 °C for 20 min. The breaking strength and breaking strain rate of thermally induced gels decreased with increasing contamination levels of the abdominal muscle part, in which degradation of myosin heavy chains was observed. The proteolytic activity in the abdominal muscle part homogenate was highest at 62.5 °C. These results suggest that the abdominal muscle part contains proteases that induce the modori phenomenon. Technical experts assume that a contaminated abdominal muscle part leads to quality deterioration in surimi production industries. Our findings will aid the production of high-quality surimi-based products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: This study investigated the effects of various upper arm resistance exercise on abdominal muscle thickness during bridging posture on stable and unstable surfaces. Method/Statistical analysis: This study was performed on 30 normal adults (6 men and 24 women). During the performance of the bridge exercise accompanied with BOSU ball to give variations of surface. Resistance exercises focusing on the upper extremities using medicine balls, pilates circle and weight bar were practiced to measure the thickness of muscles by using ultrasound. Independent t-test and one-way ANOVA were used to compare the thickness of the abdominal muscles with the stable and unstable support surface according to the type of upper arm resistance exercise. Findings: There was a significant difference in abdominal muscle thickness between the stable and unstable support surface groups without upper arm resistance exercise (p<.05). However, there was no significant difference in abdominal muscle thickness between the stable and unstable support surface groups with upper arm resistance exercise (p>.05). The result of this study showed that all of rectus abdominis(RA), internal oblique(RO), external oblique(EO) and transverse abdominis(TrA)were more thickened at the stable supporting surface than that of the unstable supporting surface. The resistance exercise using pilates circle at the stable supporting surface resulted in thicker muscle in rectus abdominis and external oblique. The resistance exercise using a weight bar resulted in significant change in both internal oblique and transverse abdominis. Improvements/Applications: The resistance exercise of the arm using various tools and the change of the supporting surface affect the increase of abdominal muscle thickness. In addition, Upper arm resistance exercise may be an effective alternative method for those who cannot apply an unstable support surface to increase the thickness of abdominal muscles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Lateral abdominal muscles control the lumbar region and this manages the stability of the trunk through co-contraction. Abdominal drawing-in maneuver (ADIM) is the basis method for spine stabilization to restore proper neuromuscular control. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of therapeutic abdominal drawing-in maneuver on abdominal muscle thickness and balance. METHODS: Twenty healthy adults were divided into 2 groups. The experimental group performed a bridging exercise with ADIM whereas the control group performed a bridging exercise without ADIM. The exercise was conducted 3 times a week for 4 weeks. Ultrasonography was used to measure the thickness of abdominal muscles. Balance ability was evaluated using Tetrax device. The Wilcoxon signed ranks test for comparison of pre and post values and Mann Whitney U test for comparison between groups were used. RESULTS: After 4 weeks, there was a significant difference in the thickness of TrA between groups (p < 0.05) whereas no significant difference in IO and EO (p > 0.05). In stability values, the experimental group showed significant changes in stability indexes of standing with eyes open (NO) and standing on the pillow with eyes closed (PC) after the exercise period and there was a significant difference in NO between two groups. CONCLUSIONS: Performing the bridging exercise with abdominal drawing-in maneuver is a more effective way to strengthen the abdominal muscles and stabilize the body than bridging exercise only. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the comparison between a Ki-hap, defined as a psyching-up technique, and verbal encouragement, defined as a verbal command by a third party, on abdominal muscle activation during performance of the crunch exercise in healthy participants. Ninety participants were randomly allocated to the following three groups: crunch only exercise group (CG, n 1 = 30), crunch exercise with Ki-hap group (CKG, n 2 = 30), and crunch exercise with Ki-hap and verbal encouragement group (CKVG, n 3 = 30). The interventions were conducted over three trials with each group, and measurements involving each participant, were performed by a single examiner. The activation of the rectus abdominis (RA), external oblique (EO), and internal oblique (IO) muscles were evaluated using electromyography (EMG) during performance of the crunch exercise by the CG, CKG, and CKVG. Our results showed a significantly greater increase in the EMG patterns of all muscles during performance of the crunch exercise in the CKG ( p < 0.05) compared to those in the CG and CKVG. The results also showed that there was a significantly greater increase in the activation of the EO and IO muscles in the CKVG ( p < 0.05) compared with that in the CG. These findings demonstrated that the addition of the Ki-hap technique and verbal encouragement, during performance of the crunch exercise, improves activation of the abdominal muscles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Is abdominal muscle exercise (AME) an effective alternative therapy to treat urinary incontinence (UI)?. Pelvic floor muscle exercise (PFME) is a conservative and conventional treatment for UI. In recent decades, another innovative method of incontinence rehabilitation involving abdominal muscles exercise, namely AME, was proposed to achieve better UI care. However, the effectiveness of AME is unclear. A quasi‐experimental pilot study with a 12‐week intervention period compared AME with PFME. Women aged ≥45 years with at least one episode per month of stress or mixed UI were enrolled. Informed consent was obtained before participation in the study. Women from each region were considered a cluster and were randomly allocated into the AME or PFME groups. All exercise sessions were accomplished at citizen activity centres. With 20 women in each group, the primary outcomes were to compare the score changes in the Incontinence Severity Index (ISI), 1‐hour pad test, and 3‐day voiding diary whereas the secondary outcomes compared the scores between the pre‐ and post‐tests. The ISI, 1‐hour pad test, and 3‐day voiding diary improved significantly after the interventions within each group; however, no significant difference was found between the groups. The effectiveness of AME was similar to that of PFME. Nevertheless, health care providers should understand the effectiveness of different strategies for treating or preventing UI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Abdominal obesity is recognized as the main reason of metabolic syndrome, which is closely related to disordered skeletal and/or abdominal muscle metabolic functions. Metabolomics is a comprehensive assessment system in biological metabolites. The aim of our present study is to investigate the diet-induced metabolic risk factors by metabolic in the abdominal muscles and clarify the relationship between atheroprotective effects of Resveratrol (Rev) and abdominal muscles metabolic components during the development of atherosclerosis. Methods: The mice were randomly divided into three groups including normal group (N), high fat diet (HFD or H) group and high fat diet with Rev treated group (HR). GC-MS combined with pattern recognition approaches were employed to obtain comprehensive metabolic signatures and related differential metabolites after 24 week HFD feeding. Oil Red O staining and Electron microscopy technology (EMT) were employed to detect the size of fatty plaques and intracellular lipid accumulation, respectively. Results: The result indicated that 22 types of metabolites in the abdominal muscles were obviously altered by HFD feeding group. Moreover, Rev treatment obviously increased 11 different kinds of metabolites, most of which were involved in the carbohydrate, amino acid and lipid metabolisms. Importantly, these elevated different metabolites were involved in pathways mainly related to galactose metabolism, alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism in abdominal muscles. Oil Red O staining and Electron microscopy showed less lipid accumulation in the lesions and decreased intracellular lipid deposition in the foam cells in HR group. Conclusions: We concluded that Rev produced a beneficial effect partially by modulating multiple metabolism pathways and metabolites in the abdominal muscles, which may provide a new protective mechanism of Rev on the progression of atherosclerosis. These notably changed metabolites might be potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets during development of metabolic syndrome and atherosclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: With regard to unilateral pain in some patients with low back pain (LBP), it is advisable to evaluate asymmetrical thickness of lateral abdominal muscles. This study aimed to compare abdominal muscle thickness asymmetry in patients with non specific unilateral LBP during rest and practicing several stabilizing exercises with hollowing maneuver. Materials and Methods: This research has a case-control design. Sixteen female subjects with left and right unilateral LBP and 8 healthy subjects participated in this study. Internal oblique, external oblique and transversus abdominal muscles thickness were evaluated by ultrasound imaging technique in both sides of the subjects’ bodies during rest and hollowing maneuver with 3 stabilizing exercises; bridging, four point kneeling and abdominal crunch. Results: According to the findings, abdominal muscle thickness asymmetry during exercises was more than resting position in two groups but it is not statistically significant. Also, no significant difference was seen between case and control groups regarding abdominal muscle thickness asymmetry. Conclusion: Considering the appearance of asymmetry in healthy subjects, it seems that asymmetry in abdominal muscles cannot be interpreted as pathologic phenomena in LBP subjects.